Integrated Coolant Pump Valve for Multi-Loop Thermal Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle thermal management systems are complex and costly due to the need for separate pumps, valves, and temperature sensors for each cooling loop, leading to increased component costs and system complexity.
Innovation Solution
A pump with integrated valve and temperature sensor that can direct coolant flow through multiple outlets and measure coolant temperature using a minimal set of components, allowing for efficient operation of multiple cooling loops within a vehicle thermal management system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate pumps, valves, and temperature sensors are used for each cooling loop, then each loop can be independently controlled, but component costs and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple independent components (pump, valve, temperature sensor) into a single integrated pump assembly. The pump housing incorporates a valve mechanism with multiple positionable outlets and integrates temperature sensors directly into the housing, eliminating the need for separate external components for each cooling loop while maintaining independent control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated pump assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it pumps coolant through the system, directs flow to different cooling loops via the positionable valve mechanism, and monitors temperature through integrated sensors. This multi-functional design allows one component to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate components
2Ease of operation
If separate valves with actuators and holders are used for each loop, then flow distribution is controlled, but component costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve mechanism is merged with the pump housing, eliminating the need for separate external valve assemblies with actuators and holders. The valve is positioned within the pump housing with outlets that can be directed to different cooling loops, reducing the number of discrete components that need to be manufactured and assembled
3Measurement precision
If multiple temperature sensors are used throughout the system, then temperature monitoring is comprehensive, but component costs and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Temperature sensors are integrated directly into the pump housing structure, combining the sensing function with the pump assembly. This integration eliminates the need for separate external temperature sensor mounts and connections, reducing component count while maintaining temperature monitoring capability at critical locations
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
The integrated pump-valve-temperature sensor solution reduces component costs and system complexity by minimizing the number of required components while maintaining effective thermal management across multiple loops.
Implementation Method 1
An impeller coupled to an electrical pump motor moves the coolant from the fluid inlet to the first or second outlet
Implementation Method 2
A temperature sensor installed on the pump housing inlet measures the temperature of the coolant entering the pump
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus and coolant pump for use in a thermal management system includes a pump housing having an inlet for receiving coolant from the thermal management system and at least first and second outlets extending from the pump housing for directing coolant to at least a first and a second coolant loop. An impeller coupled to an electrical pump motor drives the coolant from the inlet to the first or the second outlet. A valve mounted between the impeller and the first and second outlets selectively directs the flow of coolant through the first or the second outlet. A temperature sensor installed on the pump housing inlet measures the temperature of the coolant entering the coolant pump.