Actuator Unit with Integrated Temperature Sensor for Mass Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of sensor and signal detection systems in coolant systems of hybrid or electric vehicles, particularly in mass flow control and valve units, makes it desirable to simplify the structure and reduce complexity.
Innovation Solution
An actuator unit with a housing part and a signal detection device integrated into the housing cover part, allowing temperature detection within the mass flow control or valve unit, which influences the actuator's operation to adjust valve positions and mass flows, thereby simplifying the detection process and maintaining system tightness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If temperature sensors and valves are arranged at different locations in the coolant system, then temperature detection and mass flow control can be performed, but the structural complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the temperature sensor, valve unit, and actuator into a single integrated assembly unit. The sensor is arranged in the valve housing, and the actuator is connected to the valve unit, merging multiple previously separate components into one compact structure that reduces overall system complexity while maintaining detection and control functions
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly unit serves multiple functions simultaneously: the sensor detects temperature, the valve unit controls mass flow, and the actuator adjusts the valve position. This multi-functional integration eliminates the need for separate detection and control systems, reducing structural complexity while preserving all necessary functions
2Reliability
If multiple sensors and valves are distributed throughout the coolant system, then comprehensive monitoring and control is achieved, but the complexity of interfaces and wiring increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the sensor, valve, and actuator into a single assembly unit, the patent reduces the number of interfaces and wiring connections required. The close proximity of components within the integrated unit minimizes external connections, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining reliable mass flow control
3Device complexity
If the actuator unit is integrated with the mass flow control unit, then structural complexity is reduced, but additional sealing requirements may arise
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator unit is integrated with the mass flow control unit through a common housing structure where the actuator is mounted on the valve housing. This merging reduces the number of separate connections and potential leak points compared to distributed arrangements, while the integrated design allows for unified sealing solutions
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enables efficient temperature detection and adjustment of mass flows within the coolant system, reducing the need for complex interfaces and wiring, and ensuring the system's tightness without additional sealing requirements.
Implementation Method 1
at least one signal detection device for detecting the temperature is provided on at least one side of the housing part on which the actuator unit is connected to the at least one unit to be driven
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an actuator unit (2) comprising at least one housing part (20) which receives an actuator (21, 22). The actuator comprises at least one drive motor (21) and at least one transmission (22), and the actuator unit (2) is connected or can be connected to at least one unit (3) to be driven by the actuator unit (2), in particular a mass flow control or valve unit, on at least one face of the housing part (20). At least one signal detection device (5) is provided for detecting the temperature on the at least one housing part (20) face on which the actuator unit (2) is connected or can be connected to the at least one unit (3) to be driven.