Vehicle Coolant Channel Plate Layout With Fewer Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid handling apparatuses for electrically powered vehicles are complex and costly due to their numerous components, making them difficult to manufacture and maintain.
Innovation Solution
A fluid apparatus with a plate-shaped base element that separates two subspaces, featuring fluid flow channel sections and through-flow openings to connect them, allowing for flexible channel routing and reduced component count, manufactured using injection molding and laser welding for simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional multi-component fluid apparatuses are used, then fluid handling functionality is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple fluid channel sections (first fluid channel section, second fluid channel section, third fluid channel section) into a single integrated base element. This base element contains all channel sections and through-flow openings as integral features, eliminating the need for separate components and complex assemblies, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining functional integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The base element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, contains all fluid channel sections, creates subspace separation, and incorporates through-flow openings for fluid connection. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized components, reducing overall device complexity
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple fluid channel sections are integrated in one base element, then manufacturing simplicity improves, but structural strength requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the third dimension by creating subspace separation within the base element. The base element defines a base plane that separates a first subspace from a second subspace, allowing fluid channels to be routed in three-dimensional space rather than confined to a single plane. This enables complex multi-channel integration while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through a single molded part
3Adaptability or versatility
If fluid channels are routed through subspace transitions, then flow path flexibility improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The base element is designed with pre-defined channel sections and through-flow openings that are integral to its structure. The first fluid channel section, second fluid channel section, and third fluid channel section are formed as predetermined pathways within the base element, with through-flow openings positioned to precisely connect them. This preliminary structuring ensures proper alignment and flow continuity without requiring high-precision post-manufacturing assembly
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure sets out an apparatus for handling fluid, such as coolant, for a vehicle that is at least partially powered by electricity. The apparatus includes a substantially plate-shaped base element defining a base plane separating a first subspace from a second subspace. At least a first fluid flow channel section is also present and is largely located in the first subspace. At least one second fluid flow channel section is also present and is largely located in the second subspace. The base element includes at least one first flow-through opening fluidly connecting the first fluid flow channel section and the second fluid flow channel section. A method of manufacturing the apparatus is also disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing the base element with at least a first fluid flow channel section and a first flow-through opening.