Cooling system for the electronic control unit of a vehicle

Abstract

Cooling plate, the cooling plate encompassing: a top surface; a lower surface that is opposite and separated from the upper surface; a first coolant channel located between the upper surface and the lower surface, extending from a front end to a rear end; a second coolant channel located between the upper surface and the lower surface, extending from the front end to the rear end; a connecting channel that connects the first coolant channel to the second coolant channel at the rear end; a multitude of first ribs arranged in the first and second coolant channels, projecting from the upper surface to the lower surface; a multitude of second ribs arranged in the first and second coolant channels and projecting from the lower surface to the upper surface, wherein at least one of the first ribs is spaced away from the lower surface, at least one second rib of the second ribs is spaced away from the upper surface, and which has at least one second rib arranged between adjacent first ribs; a first opening in the first coolant channel at the front end, designed to allow coolant to enter the cooling plate; and a second opening in the second coolant channel at the front end, designed to allow the coolant to leave the cooling plate.

Description

REFERENCE TO A RELATED REGISTRATION

[0001] The present application claims priority over the preliminary US patent application No. 63 / 686,929 filed on August 26, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated into the present application by reference. TECHNICAL AREA

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to the technology for cooling an electronic control unit (ECU) and, for example, to systems and methods that use cooling plate technology for cooling the control unit. STATE OF THE ART

[0003] An autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle uses an electronic control unit (ECU) capable of receiving information from a variety of sensors, processing that information, and issuing corresponding commands to various vehicle components for controlling and operating the autonomous vehicle. The ECU typically includes a variety of components, such as one or more processors, memory, circuit boards, and / or other electronic devices, some or all of which generate heat during operation. This heat must be dissipated to prevent the temperature of the ECU and its components from exceeding safe operating limits.

[0004] Although cooling systems for ECU components exist, cooling efficiency needs significant improvement. Advances in electronics and control systems have led to substantial increases in the processing speeds of the ECU's processors, while the physical size of the components has decreased. Furthermore, the ECU's processors can receive and process ever-increasing amounts of information. This higher processing speed and / or the larger volume of information to be processed results in increased heat generation within the ECU. Additionally, the miniaturization of components leads to higher heat generation per unit area (or heat flow), which can manifest as hot spots on one or more components of the ECU.Improvements in cooling efficiency are therefore desirable in order to provide cooling solutions that dissipate the ever-increasing heat generation and adequately cool the hot spots in the control unit. SUMMARY

[0005] In one embodiment, a cooling plate is disclosed. The cooling plate can include an upper surface and a lower surface, the latter facing the upper surface and spaced apart from it. The cooling plate can include a first coolant channel located between the upper surface and the lower surface, extending from a front end to a rear end. The cooling plate can also include a second coolant channel located between the upper and lower surfaces, extending from the front end to the rear end. The cooling plate can include a connecting channel that connects the first coolant channel to the second coolant channel at the rear end. The cooling plate can also include a plurality of first ribs located in the first and second coolant channels, projecting from the upper surface to the lower surface.Furthermore, the cooling plate can include a plurality of second ribs arranged in the first and second coolant channels and projecting from the lower surface to the upper surface. At least one first rib of the first ribs is spaced from the lower surface, at least one second rib of the second ribs is spaced from the upper surface, and the at least one second rib is arranged between adjacent first ribs. The cooling plate can include a first opening in the first coolant channel at the front end, designed to allow coolant to enter the cooling plate. The cooling plate can also include a second opening in the second coolant channel at the front end, designed to allow coolant to exit the cooling plate. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a control unit which corresponds to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 shows a partial cross-section of an exemplary cooling plate for cooling the control unit. Fig. 1, which is consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 shows a simulation of the coolant flow in the cooling plate of Fig. 2, which is consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 4 shows part of the cooling plate Fig. 2, as used in some embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 5 shows an enlarged view of part of an example coolant of the cooling plate of Fig. 2, which is consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0006] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. Where possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar parts. While several illustrative embodiments are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. For example, the components shown in the drawings may be replaced, added to, or changed. Accordingly, the following detailed description is not limited to the disclosed embodiments and examples. Instead, the correct scope is defined by the accompanying claims.

[0007] Furthermore, various terms used in the description and claims may be defined or summarized differently when discussed in the context of different embodiments. It is understood that the definitions, summaries, and explanations of the terminology in each instance apply to all instances, even if they are not repeated, unless the transitive definitions, explanations, or summaries would render an embodiment unusable.

[0008] This disclosure consistently refers to “embodiments” that relate to examples of the inventive ideas, concepts, and / or manifestations described herein. Many related and unrelated embodiments are described in this disclosure. The fact that some “embodiments” are described as having a feature or property does not mean that other embodiments necessarily have that feature or property.

[0009] This disclosure uses an open, permissive formulation that indicates, for example, that some embodiments may use, incorporate, or include certain features. The use of the term "may" and other open terms is intended to indicate that while not every embodiment may use the specific disclosed feature, at least one embodiment does.

[0010] In some embodiments, the cooling plate has an upper surface and a lower surface that faces the upper surface and is spaced apart from it. The term "cooling plate" as used here encompasses, in its broadest sense, any system or device for dissipating heat by means of a coolant flowing through the device. The cooling plate may be attached directly or indirectly to one or more electronic devices, components, or systems capable of generating heat. The generated heat can penetrate the cooling plate. A coolant flowing through the cooling plate can absorb the heat, which can then be dissipated by warm coolant flowing out of the cooling plate.For example, a relatively cold coolant can enter the cooling plate, absorb the heat generated by one or more electronic devices, components, or systems, and a relatively warm coolant can exit the cooling plate. This relatively warm coolant exiting the cooling plate can then dissipate the heat generated by one or more electronic devices, components, or systems.

[0011] In some embodiments, the cooling plate can have the form of a housing whose thickness may be relatively small compared to the other dimensions of the cooling plate. The housing can enclose a pair of generally flat (e.g., planar) plates, which may be spaced apart or separated from each other by a gap or space along the vertical direction of the cooling plate. The vertical direction may generally be perpendicular to the pair of planar plates. Each of the two plates may enclose two surfaces separated by the thickness of the respective plate. One of the two surfaces may be called the outer surface, while the other may be called the inner surface. The inner surfaces of the two plates may be opposite each other, facing each other, and spaced apart from each other by a gap or space along the vertical direction.The outer surfaces of each of the two plates can face in opposite directions. One or both of the two plates can form an interface between one or more heat sources and the coolant flowing through the cooling plate. In this way, the heat generated by one or more heat sources, which is in contact with a selected one of the two plates, can pass through that plate and be absorbed by the coolant, which is in contact with an inner surface of that plate as the coolant flows past the inner surfaces of the two plates.

[0012] The distance or gap between the two inner surfaces can be uniform or uneven across the cross-section of the housing that forms the cooling plate. One of the two inner surfaces can be designated as the upper surface and the other as the lower surface. The terms "upper" and "lower" are to be understood as referring to two distinct surfaces and not to surfaces in a particular orientation or to surfaces arranged in a particular way with respect to the direction of gravity. For example, if the cooling plate is turned upside down, the upper surface can become the lower surface, and vice versa. If the plate is oriented perpendicular to a base or reference plane, for example, both the upper and lower surfaces can generally be perpendicular or at an angle to the base or reference plane.

[0013] In some embodiments, one or more side walls can extend between the two plates. The opposite ends of the one or more side walls can be connected to each of the two plates. Thus, the upper surface, the lower surface, and the one or more side walls can form a hollow enclosure of the cooling plate, bounded by the two plates. The coolant can flow through the hollow enclosure formed by the upper surface, the lower surface, and the one or more side walls. The coolant can include, for example, air, water, a mixture of different liquids, alcohol, glycol, a mixture of water and alcohol or glycol, oil, or another liquid, liquid mixture, gas, gas mixture, or combinations thereof, capable of flowing through the cooling plate and absorbing heat entering the cooling plate.

[0014] In some embodiments, the cooling plate is made of cast aluminum. The two plates and one or more side walls can, for example, be made of cast aluminum. In some embodiments, the two plates and one or more side walls can be made of the same or different materials. In some embodiments, the material used to manufacture the cooling plate (e.g., the two plates and one or more side walls) can contain iron, copper, steel, or another metal that can promote heat conduction through the plates and side walls of the cooling plate to a coolant flowing through the cooling plate.

[0015] In some embodiments, the cooling plate is configured to cool an electronic control unit (ECU). An ECU, also known as an electronic control module (ECM), can contain one or more electronic devices and circuits configured to control one or more electrical systems or subsystems. In some embodiments, the one or more electrical systems or subsystems can be installed in a motor vehicle (e.g., an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle). The ECU can, for example, be used as part of an autonomous (or semi-autonomous) driving platform for a vehicle.The control unit can be configured to receive one or more signals from one or more sensors and / or input devices of the motor vehicle, and it can be configured to issue one or more commands to control one or more components and / or actuators of the motor vehicle for one or more operations related to the motor vehicle. Although the control unit has been described above in the context of a motor vehicle, it can additionally or alternatively be configured to control the operation of a watercraft, an aircraft, or a stationary or mobile electrical device or system.

[0016] The control unit may include one or more processors, memory devices, and / or other electronic components and devices, including, but not limited to, graphics chips, communication devices, input / output controllers, resistors, capacitors, inductors, relays, switches, buses, and / or any other type of electronic device necessary to control the operation of the autonomous vehicle. In some embodiments, the one or more heat sources include one or more electronic devices within the control unit. A heat source may refer to a component, device, or surface that generates heat. For example, some or all components of the control unit may generate heat during operation. Thus, for example, one or more components of the control unit may be a heat source capable of generating heat during operation.

[0017] In some embodiments, one or more outer surfaces of the cooling plate may have one or more outer projections configured to contact one or more heat sources in the control unit. The outer surfaces of the cooling plate may, for example, include the outer surface of each of the two plates of the cooling plate. The outer surfaces of the cooling plate may additionally or alternatively include an outer surface of one or more side walls that does not face the enclosure formed by the two plates and the one or more side walls.

[0018] A projection can refer to a protrusion or extension that is connected at one end to an outer surface of the cooling plate and / or side wall and extends to a free end (or point) in a direction transverse to the outer surface. An outer projection can refer to a protrusion or extension that does not extend inward into the enclosure formed by the two plates and the one or more side walls; rather, the projection extends outward from the outer surfaces of the two plates of the cooling plate. The projection can have any shape, e.g., cuboid, cylindrical, prismatic, conical, or any other shape. The outer surface of one or both cooling plates can enclose one or more such projections.In some embodiments, the tips of the one or more projections can be in direct or indirect contact with the one or more heat sources or heat-generating components of the control unit. For example, the tips of the one or more projections can generally have flat surfaces that can be configured to be in direct or indirect contact with the one or more heat sources or heat-generating components of the control unit. In some embodiments, a thermally conductive adhesive or thermally conductive material can be arranged between the generally flat surfaces of the one or more outer projections and a corresponding one or more heat sources to ensure indirect contact.The thermally conductive adhesive or material can help to conduct the heat generated by a heat source through the protrusions to one of the two plates of the cooling plate.

[0019] In some embodiments, the heights of the outer projections are unequal relative to at least one of the one or more outer surfaces. The various components or heat sources of the control unit may be positioned at different distances from the outer surfaces of the cooling plate, for example, due to the different dimensions of the components. Consequently, the outer projections may be of unequal length so that different outer projections can contact the heat sources located at varying distances from the outer surfaces of the cooling plate.

[0020] In Fig. Figure 1 shows an example of an electronic control unit (ECU) 10 for a vehicle (e.g., an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle). The ECU 10 can include a cooling plate 12, a first cover 14 (e.g., an upper cover), a second cover 16 (e.g., a lower cover), a component assembly 18, and a component assembly 20. The first cover 14 and the second cover 16 can form an ECU enclosure when connected to each other. The cooling plate 12 and the component assemblies 18 and 20 can be arranged within the ECU enclosure formed by the first and second covers 14 and 16. The component assembly 18 can include one or more electronic devices 22, and the component assembly 20 can likewise include one or more electronic devices 24.In some embodiments, one or both of the component assemblies 18 and 20 may include one or more printed circuit boards or substrates, and the one or more electronic device(s) 22 and 24 may be attached or mounted on one or both sides of the one or more printed circuit boards.

[0021] In a Fig. In the example shown, component assemblies 18 and 20 can be arranged on both sides of the cooling plate 12. However, it is understood that one or both component assemblies 18 and 20 can be arranged on one or both sides of the cooling plate 12. That is to say, in some embodiments, one or both component assemblies 18 and 20 can be arranged between the first cover 14 and the cooling plate 12 or between the second cover 16 and the cooling plate 12. It is also considered that some embodiments may contain only one of the component assemblies 18 and 20, but not both.As a further example, in some embodiments, the component assembly 18 with the electronic devices 22 mounted on a first printed circuit board can be arranged on one side of the cooling plate 12, while the component assembly 20 with the electronic devices 24 mounted on a second printed circuit board can be arranged on the opposite side of the cooling plate 12. The electronic devices 22 and 24 can be in contact with the cooling plate 12, as explained below, so that the cooling plate 12 can be configured to dissipate the heat generated by the electronic devices mounted on both the first and second printed circuit boards.Such a dual printed circuit board assembly can advantageously provide redundancy, so that in the event of a failure of one or more electronic components on the first printed circuit board, corresponding electronic components on the second printed circuit board or vice versa enable uninterrupted operation of the control unit 10.

[0022] The one or more electronic devices 22 and / or 24 may have different geometries and project from the surface of the assembly 18 or 20 towards the cooling plate 12 at the same or different heights. To compensate for the different heights of the one or more electronic devices 22 and / or 24, the cooling plate 12 may be provided with one or more projections 26, which may also have the same or different heights to correspond to the heights of the one or more electronic devices 22 and / or 24 relative to the component assemblies 18 and / or 20. The one or more projections 26 may extend from the cooling plate 12 to the tip 34 towards the component assembly 18, and / or similarly, one or more projections 26 may extend from the cooling plate 12 towards the component assembly 20.Thus, one or more projections 26 can extend from one or both sides of the cooling plate 12. The tips 34 of the projections 26 can generally be flat surfaces 36. The one or more projections 26 can be dimensioned (e.g., they can have a height and a cross-sectional area) such that at least one surface of the projections 26 (e.g., the flat surface 36) can be configured to be in contact with a surface of a corresponding electronic device connected to the component arrangement 18 and / or 20. In this way, the projections 26 can help to conduct the heat generated by one or more electronic devices 22 and / or 24 to the cooling plate 12.

[0023] In some embodiments, a thermally conductive material 28 can be arranged between the generally flat surfaces 36 of the one or more projections 26 and a corresponding electronic device 22 and / or 24, which may be in contact with the one or more projections 26. The conductive material 28 can fill any gaps between a projection 26 and a corresponding electronic device 22 and / or 24, which may be in contact with the projection 26, in order to facilitate heat flow from the electronic device 22 and / or 24 to the cooling plate 12. The conductive material 28 can be in the form of a gel, a strip, a grease, or another conductive surface material that can contribute to heat conduction. The conductive material 28 can have a thermal conductivity between 1 W / mK and 15 W / mK.

[0024] In some embodiments, the cooling plate includes a first coolant channel located between the upper and lower surfaces and extending from a front end to a rear end. As described above, an inner surface of one of the two plates of the cooling plate can be designated as the upper surface, and an inner surface of the other of the two plates of the cooling plate can be designated as the lower surface. A coolant channel can refer to a passage that encloses and guides a coolant (e.g., a liquid or gaseous coolant) as the coolant flows through the passage. The passage can be located between the upper and lower surfaces and extend along a longitudinal axis of the cooling plate (e.g., along a longitudinal direction of the cooling plate) from a front end to a rear end. The longitudinal axis can be perpendicular to the vertical direction of the cooling plate.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first coolant channel includes a first outer side wall extending between the upper and lower surfaces and a first inner side wall extending between the upper and lower surfaces. The passage corresponding to the first coolant channel can be defined, for example, by the two plates and the two side walls. One of the two side walls can be a first inner side wall extending from the upper surface to the lower surface and connected to the upper and lower surfaces, respectively, at opposite ends. Similarly, the other of the two side walls can be a first outer side wall, also extending from the upper surface to the lower surface and connected to the upper and lower surfaces, respectively, at opposite ends.The first inner side wall and the first outer side wall can be spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the cooling plate. The width direction of the cooling plate can be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and the height direction of the cooling plate. Thus, the upper and lower surfaces, together with the surfaces of the first inner and outer side walls, can define or delimit the first coolant channel. The upper and lower surfaces, together with the surfaces of the first inner and outer side walls, can also define a first front opening at the front end and a first rear opening at the rear end.

[0026] The first coolant channel can extend from the upper surface to the lower surface, for example, along a vertical direction of the cooling plate that may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The first coolant channel can also extend between the first inner side wall and the first outer side wall, for example, along a horizontal direction of the passage that can generally be perpendicular to both the vertical direction and the longitudinal axis. The first inner side wall may be located closer to the longitudinal axis than the first outer side wall. The cross-section of the first coolant channel can be square, rectangular, circular, elliptical, polygonal, or any other shape. The first coolant channel can extend along the longitudinal axis in a direction that can generally be perpendicular to its cross-section.

[0027] In some embodiments, the cooling plate includes a second coolant channel located between the upper and lower surfaces, extending from the front end to the rear end. The second coolant channel may have a similar structure to the first coolant channel. The second coolant channel may also extend from the front end to the rear end along the longitudinal axis of the cooling plate. For example, the respective ends (e.g., the front and rear ends) of the first and second coolant channels may be aligned with each other and arranged together with respect to the longitudinal axis of the cooling plate. In some embodiments, the cooling plate includes a longitudinal axis located between the first and second coolant channels. The second coolant channel may, for example, beside and generally parallel to the cooling plate (e.g., side by side along the width of the cooling plate).This means that the first and second coolant channels can be arranged on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis along the width direction of the cooling plate. That is, the respective axes of symmetry of the first and second coolant channels can be equidistant from a longitudinal plane extending through the longitudinal axis in the width direction, with the plane generally being perpendicular to the width direction.

[0028] In some embodiments, the second coolant channel includes a second outer side wall extending between the upper and lower surfaces, and a second inner side wall extending between the upper and lower surfaces. The passage corresponding to the second coolant channel may be defined, for example, by the two plates and the two side walls. One of the two side walls may be a second inner side wall extending from the upper surface to the lower surface and connected to the upper and lower surfaces, respectively, at opposite ends of the first inner side wall. Similarly, the other of the two side walls may be a second outer side wall, also extending from the upper surface to the lower surface and connected to the upper and lower surfaces, respectively, at opposite ends of the first inner side wall.Thus, the upper and lower surfaces, together with the surfaces of the second inner side wall and the second outer side wall, can define or delimit the second coolant channel. The upper and lower surfaces, together with the surfaces of the second inner side wall and the second outer side wall, can also define a second front opening at the front end and a second rear opening at the rear end.

[0029] The second coolant channel can extend from the upper surface to the lower surface, for example, along a vertical direction of the cooling plate that may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The second coolant channel can also extend between the second inner side wall and the second outer side wall, for example, along a horizontal direction of the passage that can generally be perpendicular to both the vertical direction and the longitudinal axis. The second inner side wall may be adjacent to the first inner side wall and be located closer to the longitudinal axis than the second outer side wall. The cross-section of the second coolant channel may be square, rectangular, circular, elliptical, polygonal, or another shape.

[0030] In some embodiments, the cooling plate may have only the first inner side wall or only the second inner side wall. In these embodiments, the first coolant channel, the first front opening, and the first rear opening can be defined by the upper and lower surfaces together with a surface of the first or second inner side wall and a surface of the first outer side wall. Similarly, in these embodiments, the second coolant channel, the second front opening, and the second rear opening can be defined by the upper and lower surfaces together with a surface of the first or second inner side wall and a surface of the second outer side wall.

[0031] In some embodiments, the cooling plate includes a connecting channel that links the first coolant channel to the second coolant channel at the rear end. A connecting channel can refer to a passage that connects at least two other passages, allowing coolant to flow between these at least two other passages. For example, the connecting channel can be connected to the first rear opening of the first coolant channel at the rear end and also to the second rear opening of the second coolant channel at the rear end. Thus, the connecting channel can link the first and second coolant channels, allowing coolant to flow from the first rear opening of the first coolant channel to the second rear opening of the second coolant channel, or vice versa.

[0032] In some embodiments, the connecting channel includes an end wall extending between the upper and lower surfaces, connecting the first and second outer side walls. The end wall may, for example, extend from the upper surface to the lower surface along the vertical direction of the cooling plate. The end wall may be connected to the upper and lower surfaces and may be connected to the first outer side wall adjacent to the first rear opening and to the second outer side wall adjacent to the second rear opening. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the end wall is curved. For example, some or all of the sections of the end wall extending from the first outer side wall to the second outer side wall may be curved. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the end wall may be relatively flat.In some embodiments, the cooling plate may also have an inner end wall extending from the upper surface to the lower surface along the vertical direction of the cooling plate and may be connected to the upper and lower surfaces. The inner end wall may also be connected to the first inner side wall adjacent to the first rear opening and to the second inner side wall adjacent to the second rear opening. Thus, the upper and lower surfaces of the two plates of the cooling plate, together with the surfaces of the end wall and the inner end wall, may form a passage corresponding to the connecting channel. Embodiments that have only one inner side wall (e.g., only the first inner side wall or only the second inner side wall) do not include an inner end wall.

[0033] In some embodiments, a first opening in the first coolant channel at the front end is designed to allow coolant to enter the cooling plate, and a second opening in the second coolant channel at the front end is designed to allow the coolant to exit the cooling plate. For example, the first front opening can be the first opening through which coolant can enter the first cooling channel of the cooling plate. The coolant can then flow through the first coolant channel and the connecting channel into the second coolant channel. The second front opening can be the second opening through which the coolant exits the second coolant channel of the cooling plate. In some embodiments, the coolant can enter the cooling plate through the second opening, flow through the second coolant channel, the connecting channel, and the first coolant channel, and exit the cooling plate through the first opening.

[0034] In some embodiments, the cooling plate also includes a diffuser that connects a coolant inlet to the first opening. A diffuser can refer to a device that spreads or distributes the flow of a coolant over a larger cross-sectional area. For example, a coolant can enter the diffuser through a coolant inlet with a first cross-sectional area. The coolant can flow through the diffuser and exit the diffuser through another opening (e.g., the first opening) that has a second cross-sectional area larger than the first.

[0035] In some embodiments, the cooling plate also includes a nozzle that connects the second opening to a coolant outlet. A nozzle can refer to a device or material that has a shape converging, or causing, the flow of a coolant over a decreasing cross-sectional area. For example, a coolant can enter the nozzle through an opening (e.g., a second coolant opening) with a third cross-sectional area via a coolant inlet. The coolant can flow through the nozzle and exit the nozzle through a coolant outlet with a fourth cross-sectional area smaller than the third.

[0036] In some embodiments, the coolant inlet and outlet are arranged asymmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis. For example, the centers of the cross-sectional areas of the coolant inlet and outlet may be equidistant from the longitudinal plane, which is generally perpendicular to the lateral direction and passes through the longitudinal axis. Alternatively, the axes of symmetry of the coolant inlet and outlet may be arranged at approximately equal intervals along the lateral direction relative to the longitudinal plane, which is generally perpendicular to the lateral direction and passes through the longitudinal axis.

[0037] In some embodiments, the coolant inlet is arranged symmetrically with respect to the first opening. An axis of symmetry of the first opening may pass through a centroid or center point of its cross-sectional area. Likewise, an axis of symmetry of the coolant inlet may pass through a centroid or center point of its cross-sectional area. In some embodiments, the axis of symmetry of the first opening may be aligned with or intersect the axis of symmetry of the coolant inlet. As another example, the center point or centroid of the first opening and the coolant inlet may intersect when viewed in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cooling plate. Furthermore, for example, any plane passing through an axis of symmetry of the first opening may divide the coolant inlet into two inlet sections with generally equal cross-sectional areas.

[0038] In some embodiments, the coolant outlet is arranged asymmetrically to the second opening. An axis of symmetry of the second opening may pass through a centroid or center point of the cross-sectional area of ​​the second opening. Likewise, an axis of symmetry of the coolant outlet may be spaced from a centroid or center point of the cross-sectional area of ​​the coolant outlet by a gap or space along a width direction of the cooling plate. The axes of symmetry of the first opening and the coolant inlet may be arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart in the width direction.

[0039] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the cooling plate 12 can, for example, have an inlet 30 and an outlet 32. The inlet 30 can be configured to allow the coolant to enter the cooling plate 12. The coolant can be configured to absorb heat from the inner walls of the cooling plate. The coolant can be discharged from the cooling plate 12 via the outlet 32. In some embodiments, a pump (not shown) can be configured to direct the coolant into the cooling plate 12 via the inlet 30 and out of the cooling plate 12 via the outlet 32. The coolant can be water, a mixture of water and ethylene glycol or alcohol, or any other coolant that can be used to absorb heat from the surfaces of the cooling plate 12.

[0040] As another example, Fig. Figure 2 shows a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary cooling plate 12. The cooling plate 12 can include a first plate 40 (e.g., the lower plate) and a second plate 42 (e.g., the upper plate), which may be spaced apart from the first plate 40 by a gap 46. In some embodiments, the first and second plates 40 and 42 can be made of metal or a metal composite material. For example, the first and second plates 40 and 42 can be made of cast aluminum. The first plate 40 can have a first surface 48 (e.g., inner surface or lower surface) and a second surface 50 (e.g., outer surface). Similarly, the second plate 42 can have a third surface 52 (e.g., the inner surface or upper surface) and a fourth surface 54 (e.g., the outer surface). The inner surface 48 of the first plate 40 can face the inner surface 52 of the second plate 42.The inner surface 48 can be separated from the inner surface 52 by a gap 46. Although in . Fig. 2 not shown, one or more projections 26 can extend from the outer surface 50 of the first plate 40 towards the component assembly 20 (see Fig. 1) project outwards. Similarly, one or more projections 26 can project outwards from the outer surface 54 of the second plate 42 in the direction of the component assembly 18 (see Fig. 1).

[0041] As another example, Fig. 4 a portion of an exemplary cooling plate 12. As shown in the figure, the cooling plate 12 can include a first coolant channel 70 arranged parallel to the second coolant channel 72, such that the cooling plate 12 encloses a longitudinal axis 76 located between the coolant channel 70 and the coolant channel 72. The coolant channel 70 can extend from the front end 82 to the second end 84. Similarly, the coolant channel 72 can extend from the front end 82 to the second end 84. The coolant channel 70 can include an opening 94 through which coolant can enter the coolant channel 70 near the front end 82, and an opening 95 through which coolant can exit the coolant channel 70 near the rear end 84.The cooling channel 72 can include an opening 97 through which the coolant can enter the cooling channel near the rear end 84, and an opening 96 through which the coolant can exit the cooling channel 72 near the front end 82. The connecting channel 74 can connect the coolant channels 70 and 72 at the rear end 84. For example, the connecting channel 74 can connect the opening 95 of the coolant channel 70 to the opening 97 of the coolant channel 72. In one exemplary embodiment, the flow direction of the coolant can extend from the front end 82 to the rear end 84 in the coolant channel 70 and from the rear end 84 to the front end 82 in the coolant channel 72. However, it is understood that the direction of coolant flow is not limited to this and can also be reversed.

[0042] The coolant channel 70 can be located between the inner surface 48 of the first plate 40 (see Fig. 2) and the inner surface 52 of the second plate 42 (see Fig. 2) be arranged. The inner surface 48 of the first plate 40 can also be referred to as the lower surface 48 of the cooling plate 12. Similarly, the inner surface 52 of the second plate 42 can be referred to as the upper surface 52 of the cooling plate 12. The coolant channel 70 can include an outer side wall 102 extending between the lower surface 48 and the upper surface 52 of the cooling plate 12. Furthermore, the coolant channel 70 can include an inner side wall 104 extending between the lower surface 48 and the upper surface 52 of the cooling plate 12. In some embodiments, the outer side wall 102 can generally be arranged parallel to the inner side wall 104. Both the outer side wall 102 and the inner side wall 104 can extend from the front end 82 to the second end 84.The inner side wall 104 can be positioned closer (in the width direction of the cooling plate 12) to the longitudinal axis 76 compared to the outer side wall 102. The width direction of the cooling plate 12 can generally be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 76. The coolant channel 72 can enclose an outer side wall 106 extending between the lower surface 48 and the upper surface 52 of the cooling plate 12. Furthermore, the coolant channel 72 can enclose an inner side wall 108 extending between the lower surface 48 and the upper surface 52 of the cooling plate 12. In some embodiments, the outer side wall 106 can generally be arranged parallel to the inner side wall 108. Both the outer side wall 106 and the inner side wall 108 can extend from the front end 82 to the second end 84.The inner side wall 108 can be located next to the inner side wall 104 and closer (in the width direction) to the longitudinal axis 76 than the outer side wall 106. The inner side wall 104 and the inner side wall 108 can be connected to each other by an inner end wall arranged next to the second end 84. It is understood that the geometry described above is exemplary and not limiting. In some embodiments, for example, the cooling plate 12 may have only one inner side wall (e.g., 104 or 108) that forms a boundary between the coolant channels 70 and 72.

[0043] The end wall 110 can extend between the lower surface 48 and the upper surface 52 of the cooling plate 12. The end wall 110 can connect the outer side wall 102 and the outer side wall 106. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the end wall 110 can include a relatively flat wall section 112 and a curved wall section 114. The flat wall section 112 can generally be arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 76. Curved wall sections 114 can connect opposite ends of the flat wall section 112 to the outer side wall 102 and the outer side wall 106.

[0044] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the cooling plate 12 can include a diffuser 78 and a nozzle 80. The diffuser 78 can be arranged between the inlet 30 and the opening 94. The diffuser 78 can receive a coolant flow from the inlet 30 and distribute the flow so that the coolant can flow through the entire opening 94 at a generally uniform velocity. The diffuser 78 can have a cross-sectional area (e.g., in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 76) that increases from the inlet 30 to the opening 94. In one exemplary embodiment, a cross-sectional area of ​​the diffuser 78 can be arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal axis of symmetry 98 of the opening 94. For example, the coolant inlet 30 can be arranged symmetrically with respect to the opening 94. However, it is conceivable that in other embodiments a cross-sectional area of ​​the diffuser 78 can be arranged asymmetrically about the axis of symmetry 98.

[0045] The nozzle 80 can be arranged between the outlet 32 ​​and the opening 96. The nozzle 80 can receive a coolant flow from the opening 96 and direct the coolant flow to the outlet 32. The nozzle 80 can have a cross-sectional area that decreases from the opening 96 towards the outlet 32. In one exemplary embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the nozzle 80 can be arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal axis of symmetry 100 of the opening 96. For example, the coolant outlet 32 ​​can be arranged asymmetrically with respect to the opening 96. However, it is conceivable that in other embodiments the cross-sectional area of ​​the nozzle 80 could be arranged asymmetrically about the axis of symmetry 100. However, it is understood that the diffuser 78 can function like a nozzle and the nozzle 80 like a diffuser if the coolant flow is reversed, so that the coolant enters the cooling plate 12 through the outlet 32 ​​and exits the cooling plate 12 through the inlet 30.

[0046] In some embodiments, the cooling plate includes a plurality of first ribs arranged in the first and second coolant channels, projecting from the upper surface to the lower surface. A rib can refer to a structural element extending from a surface in a direction transverse to that surface. In some embodiments, the rib can generally extend perpendicular to the surface to which it is attached. In some embodiments, the rib can extend at an angle relative to the surface to which it is attached. The rib can be connected to the surface at one end and have a free opposite end, or the opposite end can be connected to another structure or surface. A rib can have a cross-sectional area of ​​a square, rectangular, circular, elliptical, polygonal, or other shape.The cross-sectional shape of a rib can be uniform along its entire length or vary with increasing distance from the surface to which it is attached. The rib can be designed to conduct heat from the surface to which it is attached to the opposite end of the rib. In some embodiments, one or more ribs can be attached to the upper surface (e.g., the inner surface of the top plate of the cooling plate) at a base end of the rib. The one or more ribs can extend in a direction transverse to both the upper and lower surfaces (e.g., the inner surface of the lower plate of the cooling plate). The one or more ribs can be located in the first coolant channel, the second coolant channel, or both.

[0047] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of first ribs is spaced from the lower surface. As described above, the plurality of first ribs can be attached to the upper surface and extend to their respective tips in a direction transverse to both the upper and lower surfaces. In some embodiments, the tip of each plurality of first ribs can be spaced or separated from the lower surface by a gap in the vertical direction of the cooling plate. The distances between the various ribs of the plurality of first ribs and the underside can be equal or unequal. In some embodiments, some or all of the plurality of first ribs can be connected to the lower surface.

[0048] In some embodiments, the cooling plate includes a plurality of second fins arranged in the first and second coolant channels and projecting from the lower surface to the upper surface. For example, one or more fins may be attached to the lower surface and extend from the lower surface to the upper surface in a direction transverse to the lower surface. The transverse direction may generally be perpendicular to the lower surface or angled relative to the lower surface. The plurality of second fins may have a square, rectangular, circular, elliptical, polygonal, or other cross-sectional shape. The cross-sectional shapes of the plurality of second fins may be uniform along the length of the fin or vary with distance from the lower surface.

[0049] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of second ribs is spaced from the upper surface. As described above, the plurality of second ribs can be attached to the lower surface and extend to the respective tips of the plurality of second ribs in a direction transverse to both the lower and upper surfaces. In some embodiments, the tip of each of the plurality of second ribs can be spaced or separated from the upper surface by a gap in the transverse direction (e.g., in the vertical direction of the cooling plate). The distances between different ribs of the plurality of second ribs and the upper surface can be equal or unequal. In some embodiments, some or all of the plurality of second ribs can be connected to the upper surface.In some embodiments, the material used to manufacture the first and / or a plurality of second fins may be a metal or a metal composite material, e.g. iron, copper, steel or another metal that can promote heat conduction through the fins.

[0050] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, in some embodiments, for example, one or more ribs 56 may be attached to the inner surface 48 of the first plate 40. The ribs 56 may project from the inner surface 48 of the first plate 40 towards the inner surface 52 of the second plate 42. In one exemplary embodiment, the ribs 56 may have a height that is less than the height of the gap 46, so that the tip surfaces 60 of the ribs 56 are not in contact with the inner surface 52 of the second plate 42. In some embodiments, some or all of the ribs 56 may be in contact with the inner surface 52 of the second plate 42.

[0051] As also in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, in some embodiments one or more ribs 58 can be attached to the inner surface 52 of the second plate 42. The ribs 58 can project from the inner surface 52 of the second plate 42 towards the inner surface 48 of the first plate 40. In one exemplary embodiment, the ribs 58 can have a height that is less than the height of the gap 46, so that the tip surfaces 62 of the ribs 58 are not in contact with the inner surface 48 of the first plate 40. However, it is conceivable that in some embodiments some or all of the ribs 58 are in contact with the inner surface 48 of the first plate 40.

[0052] As another example, Fig. 3 a simulation (e.g. a computer-generated simulation) that represents the flow of coolant in the cooling plate 12. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the coolant can enter the cooling plate 12 via the inlet 30. The coolant can flow around one or more of the fins 56 and / or 58. Contact of the flowing coolant with the surfaces of the fins 56 and / or 58 can cause heat to be transferred from the cooling plate and the fins to the flowing coolant, which can then exit the cooling plate 12 via the outlet 32. In a Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the cooling plate 12 can include a coolant channel 70, a coolant channel 72, and a connecting channel 74. Relatively cold coolant can enter the coolant channel 70 via the inlet 30. The connecting channel 74 can connect the coolant channels 70 and 72, so that the coolant flowing through the coolant channel 70 can be directed to the coolant channel 74. The coolant can flow through the coolant channel 72, and the relatively warm coolant can exit the cooling plate 12 via the outlet 32.

[0053] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of first ribs has a teardrop shape. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of second ribs has a teardrop shape. In some embodiments, at least one rib from the plurality of first ribs and the plurality of second ribs has a teardrop shape. The shape of a teardrop can refer to a shape similar to that of a liquid droplet. For example, a teardrop shape can be defined by concave, curved edges that are opposite each other and located at two opposite ends, and have a width that decreases continuously from one of the opposite ends to the other. Thus, a teardrop shape for a rib can refer to a cross-sectional shape in which the width of the cross-sectional shape decreases in a direction extending from a point on one circumference of the cross-section to an opposite point on the circumference.As mentioned previously, each of the plurality of first ribs and the plurality of second ribs can have any cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, some or all of the plurality of first ribs and some or all of the plurality of second ribs can have a teardrop shape. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of first ribs in the first coolant channel has a first rib width that decreases in one direction from the front end to the rear end. In some embodiments, at least some of the plurality of first ribs have a first rib width that decreases from the front end to the rear end. For example, a first rib from the plurality of first ribs can generally extend perpendicular to the bottom surface (e.g., the inner surface of the bottom plate of the cooling plate).The cross-sectional area of ​​the first rib in a plane generally parallel to the lower surface can vary in a direction extending from the front end of the cooling plate to the rear end. In some embodiments, the width (e.g., along the width direction of the cooling plate) of the first rib's cross-sectional area closer to the front end can be greater than the width of the first rib's cross-sectional area closer to the rear end. That is, the width of the first rib's cross-sectional area can decrease in a direction from the front end to the rear end. The decreasing width of the cross-sectional area can form a cross-sectional area that has a teardrop shape. In some embodiments, some or all of the plurality of first ribs can have a shape similar to the first rib described above.In some embodiments, the plurality of first ribs located in the first coolant channel can have a width of their respective cross-sectional areas that may decrease in a direction extending from the front end to the rear end. In some embodiments, the plurality of first ribs located in the second coolant channel can have a width of their respective cross-sectional areas that may decrease in a direction extending from the rear end to the front end.

[0054] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of second ribs in the first coolant channel has a second rib width that decreases in a direction from the front end to the rear end. In some embodiments, at least some of the plurality of second ribs have a second rib width that decreases from the front end to the rear end. For example, a second rib from the plurality of second ribs may generally extend perpendicular to the upper surface (e.g., the inner surface of the upper plate of the cooling plate). The cross-sectional area of ​​the second rib in a plane that generally runs parallel to the upper surface may vary in a direction extending from the front end of the cooling plate to the rear end of the cooling plate. In some embodiments, the width (e.g.,(along the width direction of the cooling plate) the cross-sectional area of ​​the second rib closer to the front end may be larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second rib closer to the rear end. That is, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second rib may decrease in a direction from the front end to the rear end. The decreasing cross-sectional area may form a cross-sectional area that has the shape of a teardrop. In some embodiments, some or all of the multiple second ribs may have a shape similar to the first rib described above. In some embodiments, the plurality of first ribs located in the first coolant channel may have a cross-sectional area width that decreases in a direction extending from the front end to the rear end.In some embodiments, the plurality of first ribs located in the second coolant channel may have a width of their respective cross-sectional areas that may decrease in a direction extending from the rear end to the front end.

[0055] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of first ribs in the first coolant channel has a first rib width that decreases in the direction of coolant flow from the first opening to the second opening. For example, the first coolant channel, as described above, extends from the front end to the rear end and includes a first opening at the front end and a second opening at the rear end. In some embodiments, the coolant can enter the first coolant channel through the first opening and exit through the second opening, flowing through the first coolant channel in one direction from the front end to the rear end. As described above, in some embodiments, the width (e.g., along the width direction of the cooling plate) of the cross-sectional area of ​​some or all of the ribs closer to the front end can be greater than the width of the cross-sectional area of ​​the first rib closer to the rear end.Thus, the width of the cross-sectional area of ​​some or all of the ribs can decrease in the direction of the coolant flow, which can extend from the front end to the rear end.

[0056] In some embodiments, a teardrop shape has a leading edge and a trailing edge, with the leading edge being wider than the trailing edge. As described above, some or all of the first and / or plurality of second ribs may have a teardrop-shaped cross-sectional area. A leading edge may refer to a portion of the rib that is upstream relative to the trailing edge, based on the direction of coolant flow. As mentioned earlier, in some embodiments, the coolant flows from the front end to the trailing end. Thus, the leading edge of a rib of the first or plurality of second ribs may be located closer to the first opening (or the leading end) and farther from the second opening (or the trailing end).Similarly, the trailing edge of the rib of the first or of the plurality of second ribs can be located closer to the second opening (or the rear end) and further away from the first opening (or the front end). As mentioned earlier, in some embodiments the width of the rib located closer to the front end (e.g., at the front edge) is greater than the width of the rib located closer to the rear end (e.g., at the rear edge). In some embodiments, the ratio of the width of the front edge to the width of the rear edge is between 1.5 and 3.

[0057] In some embodiments, the leading edge has a radius of curvature and the trailing edge has a radius of curvature. For example, the leading edge and / or the trailing edge of some or all ribs of the plurality of first and / or second ribs may have a generally curved shape. In some embodiments, the leading edge may be convex relative to the leading end, and the trailing edge may be convex relative to the trailing end. That is, the leading edge may be concave relative to the trailing end, and the trailing edge may be concave relative to the leading end. A center of curvature associated with the curved leading edge may be located within the rib between the leading and trailing edges. Likewise, a center of curvature associated with the curved trailing edge may be located within the rib between the leading and trailing edges.Each of the front and / or rear edges can be assigned a corresponding radius of curvature, which defines the size of the curved shape of the front and / or rear edge. The length of each rib can be defined as the distance between the front and rear edges in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cooling plate. In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the at least one rib and the radius of curvature of the front edge is between 1.1 and 2.0. In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the at least one rib and the radius of curvature of the rear edge is between 1.5 and 3.0. In some embodiments, the teardrop shape of the ribs can provide a 5%, 10%, 20%, 25%, 30% or higher heat dissipation efficiency than a comparable cooling plate design with pin ribs of uniform cross-sectional area.In some embodiments, the teardrop shape of the ribs can additionally or alternatively result in a 5%, 10%, 15% or greater reduction in pressure drop compared to a comparable cooling plate design with pin ribs having a uniform cross-sectional area.

[0058] Fig. Figure 5 shows an enlarged view of part of the coolant channel 70. In some embodiments, some or all of the fins 56 and 58 may have a teardrop shape. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the rib 58 can extend from the front edge 120 to the rear edge 122. In one exemplary embodiment, the front edge 120 of the rib 58 can face the front end 82 in the coolant channel 70 and the rear end 84 in the coolant channel 72. In some embodiments, the rib width of the rib 58 can decrease along a direction from the front end 82 to the rear end 84 in the coolant channel 70 and from the rear end 84 to the front end 82 in the coolant channel 72. For example, the ribs 56 and 58 can have a rib width that decreases along the direction of coolant flow (see Figure 5). Fig. 3). That is, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the width W1 (front edge width) of the rib 56 or 58 closer to the front end 82 (e.g., at the front edge 120) can be greater than the width W2 (rear edge width) of the rib 56 or 58 closer to the rear end 84 (e.g., at the rear edge 122) of the coolant channel 70. Likewise, the width W1 (front edge width) of the rib 56 or 58 closer to the rear end 84 (e.g., at the front edge 120) can be greater than the width W2 (rear edge width) of the rib 56 or 58 closer to the front end 82 (e.g., at the rear edge 122) of the coolant channel 72. In other embodiments, the rib width of the rib 58 can be variable along a direction from the front end 82 to the rear end 84 in the coolant channel. 70 and rise from the rear end 84 to the front end 82 in the cooling channel 72.

[0059] The ratio between the width of the front edge W1 and the width of the rear edge W2 can be between approximately 1.5 and 3.0. In some embodiments, both the front edge 120 and the rear edge 122 can be curved. In some embodiments, the ratio between the length L (e.g., between the front edge 120 and the rear edge 122) of the rib 58 and the radius of curvature R can be L The ratio at the front edge 120 is between approximately 1.1 and 2.0. In some embodiments, the ratio between the length L (e.g., between the front edge 120 and the rear edge 122) of the rib 58 and the radius of curvature R can be T The values ​​at the rear edge 122 lie between approximately 1.5 and 3.0. The ribs 56 can have a similar geometry to the rib 58, and although the ratios have been described in relation to the rib 58, it is understood that similar ratios also apply to the ribs 56.

[0060] The shape of the ribs 56 and 58 is not limited to a teardrop shape, and the ribs 56 and / or 58 can have a circular, elliptical, square, polygonal, triangular, or any other cross-sectional shape along a plane parallel to the lower surface 48 and upper surface 52 of the cooling plate 12. It is conceivable that different ribs 56 have different shapes, that different ribs 58 have different shapes, and / or that some or all ribs 56 and / or 58 have the same or a different shape.

[0061] In some embodiments, in at least one of the first coolant channels or the second coolant channel, each of the plurality of first ribs is offset from adjacent ribs along both a length and a width of the first or second coolant channel. As described above, the plurality of first ribs can be arranged in one or both of the first and second coolant channels. Likewise, the plurality of second ribs can be arranged in one or both of the first and second coolant channels. In some embodiments, each rib from the plurality of first ribs can be offset (or spaced apart) from adjacent ribs from the plurality of second ribs.For example, each rib of the plurality of first ribs can be arranged between and spaced apart from the nearest pair of ribs of the plurality of second ribs in the lateral direction. In some embodiments, each of the second ribs is arranged between adjacent first ribs. In some embodiments, each rib of the plurality of second ribs can be offset (or spaced apart) from the adjacent ribs of the plurality of first ribs. For example, each rib of the plurality of second ribs can be arranged between and spaced apart from the nearest pair of ribs of the plurality of second ribs in the longitudinal direction (e.g., along the longitudinal axis of the cooling plate).For example, a group of four ribs of the plurality of second ribs can be arranged at four corners of a rectangle, and a rib of the plurality of first ribs can be arranged within the rectangle formed by the group of four ribs of the plurality of second ribs.

[0062] As in the Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, ribs 56 and 58 can, for example, form a staggered arrangement of ribs, such that each rib 58 can be positioned between adjacent ribs 56, so that each rib 58 can be offset (or spaced apart) from the adjacent ribs 56. For example, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, a first pair of ribs 56 can be spaced apart longitudinally along the cooling plate 12, a second pair of ribs 56 can be spaced apart longitudinally along the cooling plate 12, and the first and second pairs of ribs 56 can be spaced apart laterally. Furthermore, in this arrangement, a rib 58 can be arranged between the first and second pairs of ribs 56, such that the rib 58 is spaced apart both longitudinally and transversely from each rib 56 of the first and second pairs of ribs 56. Similarly, each rib 56 can be arranged between adjacent ribs 58, so that each rib 56 can be offset (or spaced apart) from the adjacent ribs 58. For example, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, a first pair of ribs 58 can be spaced apart along a longitudinal direction of the cooling plate 12, a second pair of ribs 58 can be spaced apart along a longitudinal direction of the cooling plate 12, and the first and second pairs of ribs 58 can be spaced apart along the transverse direction. Furthermore, in this arrangement, a rib 56 can be positioned between the first and second pairs of ribs 58 such that the rib 56 is spaced apart from each rib 58 in the first and second pairs of ribs 58 both longitudinally and transversely. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, one or more ribs 56 and 58 can be arranged in the coolant channels 70 and 72. Fig.As shown in Figure 4, a plurality of ribs 56 can be arranged along a row 116 of ribs, wherein the ribs 56 can be spaced apart from one another in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis 76. Adjacent rows 116 of ribs 56 can also be spaced apart from one another in a direction along the longitudinal axis 76. Similarly, a plurality of ribs 58 can be arranged along the row 118 of ribs, wherein the ribs 58 can be spaced apart from one another in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis 76. Adjacent rows 118 of ribs 58 can also be spaced apart from one another in a direction along the longitudinal axis 76. Furthermore, each row 118 of ribs 58 can be arranged between adjacent rows 116 of ribs 56. In addition, each rib 58 in each row 118 can be offset from the adjacent ribs 56 in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis 76. Thus, rows 116 and 118 of ribs 56 and 56 respectively can be used.The ribs 56 and 58 form a staggered arrangement in the two cooling channels 70 and 72. Although an offset arrangement of ribs 56 and 58 has been described above, they can also be arranged in a row or in another geometric shape.

[0063] The foregoing description is provided for illustrative purposes only. It is not exhaustive and is not limited to the exact forms or embodiments disclosed. Modifications and adaptations are apparent to the person skilled in the art from considering the specification and the practice of the disclosed embodiments. Furthermore, although illustrative embodiments have been described herein, the scope of all embodiments includes equivalent elements, modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across different embodiments), adaptations, and / or changes, as are apparent to the person skilled in the art based on the present disclosure.The limitations in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based on the language used in the claims and are not restricted to the examples described in the present description or during the preparation of the application. The examples are to be understood as non-exclusive. It is therefore intended that the specification and the examples be regarded as illustrative only, with the true scope and spirit being given by the following claims and their full range of 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] US 63 / 686,929

[0001]

Claims

[1] Cooling plate, comprising the cooling plate: a top surface; a lower surface that is opposite and separated from the upper surface; a first coolant channel located between the upper surface and the lower surface, extending from a front end to a rear end; a second coolant channel located between the upper surface and the lower surface, extending from the front end to the rear end; a connecting channel that connects the first coolant channel to the second coolant channel at the rear end; a multitude of first ribs arranged in the first and second coolant channels, projecting from the upper surface to the lower surface; a multitude of second ribs arranged in the first and second coolant channels and projecting from the lower surface to the upper surface, wherein at least one of the first ribs is spaced away from the lower surface, at least one second rib of the second ribs is spaced away from the upper surface, and which has at least one second rib arranged between adjacent first ribs; a first opening in the first coolant channel at the front end, designed to allow coolant to enter the cooling plate; and a second opening in the second coolant channel at the front end, designed to allow the coolant to leave the cooling plate. [2] Cooling plate according to claim 1, wherein the first ribs are teardrop-shaped. [3] Cooling plate according to claim 2, wherein the at least one first rib in the first coolant channel has a first rib width that decreases in a direction from the front end to the rear end. [4] Cooling plate according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first rib in the first coolant channel has a first rib width that decreases in the direction of the coolant flow from the first opening to the second opening. [5] Cooling plate according to claim 1, wherein at least some of the first ribs have a first rib width that decreases in a direction from the front end to the rear end. [6] Cooling plate according to claim 1, wherein the second ribs are teardrop-shaped. [7] Cooling plate according to claim 1, wherein the at least one second rib in the first coolant channel has a second rib width that decreases in a direction from the front end to the rear end. [8] Cooling plate according to claim 1, wherein at least some of the second ribs have a second rib width that decreases in the direction from the front end to the rear end. [9] Cooling plate according to claim 1, wherein each of the at least one first rib and the at least one second rib has a teardrop shape with a front edge and a rear edge, wherein the front edge has a greater width than the rear edge. [10] Cooling plate according to claim 9, wherein the ratio of the width of the front edge to the width of the rear edge is between 1.5 and 3. [11] Cooling plate according to claim 9, wherein the front edge has a radius of curvature at the front edge and the rear edge has a radius of curvature at the rear edge. [12] Cooling plate according to claim 11, wherein the ratio between the length of the at least one first rib and the radii of curvature of the front edge is between 1.1 and 2.

0. [13] Cooling plate according to claim 11, wherein the ratio between the length of the at least one first rib and the radius of curvature of the rear edge is between 1.5 and 3.

0. [14] Cooling plate according to claim 1, wherein in at least one of the first coolant channel or the second coolant channel the at least one first rib is offset from adjacent second ribs both in a longitudinal direction and in a lateral direction of the at least one of the first coolant channel or the second coolant channel. [15] Cooling plate according to claim 1, wherein the cooling plate is made of cast aluminum. [16] Cooling plate according to claim 1, wherein the cooling plate further includes a diffuser connecting a coolant inlet to the first opening. [17] Cooling plate according to claim 16, wherein the cooling plate further includes a nozzle connecting the second opening to a coolant outlet. [18] Cooling plate according to claim 17, wherein the cooling plate includes a longitudinal axis which is arranged between the first coolant channel and the second coolant channel, and the coolant inlet and the coolant outlet are arranged asymmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis. [19] Cooling plate according to claim 18, wherein the coolant inlet is arranged symmetrically to the first opening. [20] Cooling plate according to claim 18, wherein the coolant outlet is arranged asymmetrically to the second opening. [21] Cooling plate according to claim 1, wherein the first coolant channel has a first outer side wall extending between the upper surface and the lower surface, and a first inner side wall extending between the upper surface and the lower surface. [22] Cooling plate according to claim 21, wherein the second coolant channel includes a second outer side wall extending between the upper surface and the lower surface, and a second inner side wall extending between the upper surface and the lower surface. [23] Cooling plate according to claim 22, wherein the connecting channel includes an end wall extending between the upper surface and the lower surface and connecting the first outer side wall and the second outer side wall. [24] Cooling plate according to claim 23, wherein at least a part of the end wall is curved. [25] Cooling plate according to claim 1, wherein the cooling plate is configured to cool an electronic control unit (ECU). [26] Cooling plate according to claim 25, wherein one or more outer surfaces of the cooling plate have one or more external projections configured to be in contact with one or more heat sources in the control unit. [27] Cooling plate according to claim 26, wherein the one or more heat sources include one or more electronic devices in the control unit. [28] Cooling plate according to claim 26, wherein the heights of the outer projections are unequal relative to at least one of the one or more outer surfaces.

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