Cooling Module Manifold Layout for Flexible Pipe Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooling modules with reserve tanks restrict flexibility in design and routing of cooling circuits due to limited mounting space, leading to complex pipe configurations and reduced design freedom.
Innovation Solution
A cooling module without a reserve tank, featuring a resin manifold with integrated housings and channels, allowing for simplified channel configurations and reduced pipe lengths by aligning inflow and outflow ports, and incorporating auxiliary units like pumps and valves on different housings for optimized strength and reduced redundancy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If components are mounted on a reserve tank, then the cooling module structure is simplified, but the mounting space is limited and design flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold is divided into multiple housings (first housing, second housing, third housing) that can be independently shaped and configured. Each housing can be optimized for specific functions and mounting requirements, allowing components to be mounted on different surfaces with optimal positioning and orientation, thus maintaining structural simplicity while enhancing design flexibility.
2Area of stationary object
If the reserve tank capacity is increased, then more mounting space is available, but the overall size and routing complexity of pipes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold utilizes three-dimensional space efficiently by distributing components across multiple housings arranged in different spatial dimensions. The first, second, and third housings can be positioned at different heights and locations, allowing pipes to connect to components on different surfaces with optimized routing that minimizes pipe length while providing ample mounting space.
3Device complexity
If channels are formed across multiple housings, then pipe integration is improved and routing is simplified, but the manufacturing complexity of the manifold increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold is segmented into multiple housings that can be manufactured separately using standardized processes, then joined together. Channels are formed within each housing and continue across housing boundaries, allowing complex internal channel routing to be achieved through modular assembly rather than monolithic manufacturing, thus simplifying both pipe routing and manufacturing.
Data Source
AI summary
A cooling module does not include a reserve tank inside, but includes a manifold made of resin and including a plurality of housings joined to each other, and the manifold includes a plurality of channels formed across at least two of the plurality of housings.