Cooling Flow Switching for Stable EV Equipment Heat Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooling devices using vapor compression refrigeration cycles face a decline in cooling performance when the flow rate of liquid-phase coolant for cooling heat sources, such as electrical devices in vehicles, is reduced.
Innovation Solution
A control method that involves increasing the amount of liquid coolant stored and switching the coolant flow path to ensure a stable flow rate, using a switching valve to redirect the coolant flow between different passages, and adjusting the operation of components like the compressor and expansion valve to maintain efficient cooling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the flow rate of liquid-phase coolant for cooling the heat source is decreased, then the cooling performance for the heat source is deteriorated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the coolant flow path into multiple passages: a first passage that allows liquid-phase coolant to flow directly from the decompressor to the cooling unit, and a second passage that circulates coolant through the heat exchanger. This segmentation enables selective routing of coolant to maintain adequate liquid-phase flow to the cooling unit while allowing overall system flow rate to be reduced.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a switching valve as an intermediary device that controls the flow path of coolant. By switching between the first passage (direct liquid-phase flow) and the second passage (recirculation through heat exchanger), the valve maintains stable liquid-phase coolant supply to the cooling unit while enabling overall flow rate reduction for energy efficiency.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the flow rate of coolant is reduced to improve energy efficiency, then the cooling stability for the heat source is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic flow path switching capability through the switching valve, which can adaptively route coolant between the first passage and second passage based on cooling demands. This dynamic adjustment maintains cooling stability by ensuring adequate liquid-phase coolant reaches the cooling unit while allowing the system to operate at lower overall flow rates for improved energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the flow path parameter by switching between two distinct passages. The first passage maintains high liquid-phase coolant flow for stable cooling, while the second passage enables recirculation at lower flow rates. This parameter change allows the system to achieve energy efficiency without compromising cooling stability.
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 method ensures a stable cooling performance for heat sources by maintaining the flow rate of liquid-phase coolant, preventing a deterioration in cooling ability and allowing for efficient cooling of electrical devices in vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
a heat exchanger performing heat exchange between the coolant and outside air
Implementation Method 2
a cooling unit cooling the heat source using the coolant
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling a cooling device capable of stably cooling a heat source is provided. A cooling device includes a first passage through which a coolant discharged from a compressor flows into a cooling unit for cooling EV equipment; a second passage through which the coolant is circulated between a heat exchanger and the cooling unit; a switching valve switching communication of the first passage and communication of the second passage; and a liquid storage container storing a liquid coolant condensed in the heat exchanger. The control method includes the steps of: increasing an amount of the liquid coolant stored in the liquid storage container; and switching the switching valve so as to block the first passage and allow communication of the second passage.