Cooling Circuit Valve Coordination for Waste Heat Recovery Temperature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cooling systems for internal combustion engines, particularly those integrated with waste heat recovery systems, face challenges in accurately and flexibly controlling the temperature of the cooling fluid, leading to inefficiencies in engine efficiency and fuel consumption, and increased risk of operational disturbances.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a cooling system with a radiator, bypass circuit, and valve units controlled by temperature sensors to adjust the flow of the cooling fluid through the radiator and condenser, allowing for precise temperature management and energy-efficient operation, including predictive control based on driving conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a thermostat-based cooling system is used, then the cooling system is simple in structure, but the temperature control accuracy and flexibility are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical thermostat-based cooling control system with an electronically controlled valve system. The electronic control unit receives temperature signals from sensors and actuates the first and second valve units accordingly, enabling precise temperature control while reducing mechanical complexity. This substitution allows for accurate temperature monitoring and regulation without relying on mechanical thermostats.
2Ease of operation
If the cooling fluid temperature is not controlled, then the cooling system operation is simple, but the condenser and other components may be damaged due to excessive temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where temperature sensors continuously monitor the cooling fluid temperature and transmit signals to the electronic control unit. The control unit adjusts the valve positions based on the temperature feedback to maintain the cooling fluid temperature within safe operating limits, preventing damage to the condenser and other components while maintaining simple operation.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a waste heat recovery system is integrated, then engine efficiency and fuel consumption are improved, but the cooling system temperature control becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional cooling system where the same cooling fluid circulation system serves both the engine cooling function and the waste heat recovery system. The first valve unit controls flow to the engine, while the second valve unit controls flow to the waste heat recovery system. The electronic control unit coordinates both functions, enabling the system to improve engine efficiency and fuel consumption through waste heat recovery while managing temperature control through integrated electronic regulation.
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 approach enables robust, efficient control of the cooling fluid temperature, optimizing engine efficiency, reducing fuel consumption, and minimizing operational disturbances by accurately regulating the cooling system's performance.
Implementation Method 1
a radiator arranged for cooling the cooling fluid
Implementation Method 2
The vapour is thereafter cooled in the condenser, such that the working fluid is brought back to its initial liquid state
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for controlling the temperature of a cooling fluid in a cooling system (6) arranged in fluid connection with an internal combustion engine (2) of a vehicle, the cooling system comprising a cooling circuit (50) connected to a condenser (26) of a waste heat recovery system (4), a cooling pump (52) arranged to circulate a cooling fluid through the cooling circuit (50) and a radiator (54) arranged for cooling the cooling fluid, a bypass circuit (56), a first valve unit (58) and a second valve unit (60), wherein the first valve unit (58) is arranged to control the flow of cooling fluid through the radiator (54) and the bypass circuit (56) respectively, and the second valve unit (60) is arranged to control the flow of cooling fluid passing through the condenser (26). A condenser-in temperature of the cooling fluid is determined by means of a first temperature sensor (55) and an engine-in temperature of the cooling fluid is determined by means of a second temperature sensor (57). The flow of the cooling fluid is controlled by means of the first valve unit (58) and/or the second valve unit (60) based on the determined condenser-in and engine-in fluid temperatures.