Integrated Fluid Distributor for EV Motor Hot-Cold Loop Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heat transfer fluid circuits in electric and hybrid motor vehicles are complex, difficult to install, and prone to leaks due to multiple subassemblies and connections, leading to increased assembly times and costs.
Innovation Solution
A compact fluid distributor with integrated three-way valve, non-return valve, and calibrated section passage, featuring a height difference at its ends, allows for easy and quick assembly by controlling fluid flow between hot and cold loops, limiting thermosyphon effects and ensuring efficient heat management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple subassemblies with bodies are used in the heat transfer fluid circuit, then the required thermal management functions can be achieved, but the space requirement increases and installation becomes difficult in the engine compartment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate subassemblies (three-way valve, non-return valve, heat exchanger, and distribution manifold) into a single integrated fluid distributor body. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate components with individual bodies, significantly reducing the total space required in the engine compartment while maintaining all necessary thermal management functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated fluid distributor body performs multiple functions simultaneously: it distributes heat transfer fluid to different circuits, controls flow direction through integrated valves, prevents backflow, and facilitates heat exchange. This multi-functionality in a single component eliminates the need for multiple specialized subassemblies, reducing installation space while achieving complete thermal management capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple subassemblies with numerous connections are installed individually, then the required circuit functions can be achieved, but the installation time increases and leak risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating multiple valves and flow control mechanisms into a single distributor body with a reduced number of external connections, the patent minimizes the number of assembly steps required. The integrated design eliminates the need to individually install and connect multiple separate subassemblies, thereby reducing installation time and the number of potential leak points.
Solution Approach 2:
This principle is not applicable to this patent as it does not involve visual indicators or color-based mechanisms for solving the technical contradiction.
3Area of stationary object
If a compact fluid distributor is used with integrated valves and passages, then the installation space and assembly time are reduced, but the design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The distributor body is designed with distinct internal sections for different functions (hot loop inlet/outlet, cold loop inlet/outlet, valve chambers, heat exchange passages) that are clearly segmented and organized. This segmentation allows for systematic design and manufacturing while achieving compact integration, reducing the apparent complexity through modular internal architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional internal passages and vertical arrangement of components within the distributor body to achieve compact integration. By arranging flow paths and valves in multiple dimensions rather than simple linear sequences, the design achieves space efficiency without requiring overly complex two-dimensional layouts, making the complexity more manageable through spatial organization.
4Adaptability or versatility
If individual subassemblies are installed with many connections, then the required circuit functionality is achieved, but the cost increases due to installation time and potential leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of multiple functions into a single distributor body reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured, procured, and installed. This consolidation reduces material costs, manufacturing complexity, and installation labor costs, making the overall system more cost-effective while maintaining complete circuit functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
This principle is not directly applicable to this patent as it does not involve discarding components or recovering materials in the context of solving the technical contradiction.
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 solution simplifies the installation and operation of heat transfer fluid circuits by reducing assembly time and costs while effectively managing heat exchange, ensuring efficient fluid circulation and minimizing leaks.
Implementation Method 1
the body comprises a non-return valve preventing the passage from the cold loop outlet to the cold loop inlet
Implementation Method 2
thanks to the difference in height of the ends of the calibrated passage, a strong limitation of the heat exchange by thermosiphon is obtained between the hot loop outlet and the cold loop inlet
Implementation Method 3
a three-way controlled valve providing, in a first position, a passage from the hot loop inlet to the hot loop outlet and from the cold loop inlet to the cold loop outlet
Implementation Method 4
a heat transfer fluid circuit of a known electric or hybrid motor vehicle, presented in particular by document FR-A1-3078386, comprises a first very low temperature loop comprising a power supply battery for an electric traction machine and an air conditioning cooler for the vehicle
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
Motor vehicle provided with an electric motor and a heat transfer fluid distributor having a body (2) comprising inlets (6, 8) and a hot loop outlet (14), an inlet (26) and a cold loop outlet (20) and a three-way controlled valve (24), the body (2) comprising a non-return valve (12) preventing flow from the cold loop outlet (14) to the cold loop inlet (4, 6), and comprising a passage with a calibrated cross-section (22) from the cold loop inlet (4, 6) to the hot loop outlet (20), which passage has an inlet arranged lower than the outlet thereof.