Integrated Fluid Management Layout for Compact Thermal Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermal management systems face challenges in optimizing fluid management, particularly in connecting functional components efficiently to enhance thermal performance while minimizing volume and ensuring stability.
Innovation Solution
A fluid management apparatus comprising a heat exchange module, a fluid management module, and a connecting member with communication passages, throttling chambers, and valve chambers, which allows for efficient fluid flow and separation, reducing volume and stabilizing the system by locating components on different sides of the connecting member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If functional components are distributed at different positions and connected through pipelines, then the thermal management system can achieve flexible layout and functional independence, but the system volume increases and stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functional components (heat exchange module, fluid management module with valve core, throttling chamber, gas-liquid separation chamber) into a single integrated apparatus. The connecting member serves as both a structural connector and a fluid conduit, eliminating the need for separate pipelines. This merging approach reduces the overall system volume while maintaining all necessary functions through shared structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the fluid management module is positioned within the space defined by the connecting member's first and second side portions. The valve core, throttling chamber, and gas-liquid separation chamber are arranged in a nested configuration within the fluid management module, maximizing space utilization and minimizing the external volume of the apparatus.
2Adaptability or versatility
If functional components are distributed at different positions and connected through pipelines, then the thermal management system can achieve flexible layout, but the system stability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple functional modules into a single integrated apparatus with a unified structure, the patent eliminates the instability caused by distributed components connected through pipelines. The integrated design provides a stable mass center and rigid structural connection, preventing relative movement and vibration between components while maintaining functional versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of distributing components separately and connecting them (which causes instability), the patent inverts the approach by integrating components into a unified structure where the connecting member becomes part of the functional assembly rather than a separate connector. This inversion transforms the source of instability into a source of structural rigidity.
3Device complexity
If heat exchange module and fluid management module are located on the same side, then the structure is simpler, but the heat exchange module interferes with the fluid management module during heat exchange
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the apparatus into distinct functional zones: the heat exchange module is positioned at one end of the connecting member while the fluid management module is positioned at the other end. This spatial segmentation prevents interference between the heat exchange process and fluid management operations, ensuring reliable operation of each module while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through the unified connecting member.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent arranges modules along the longitudinal axis of the connecting member rather than stacking them in a compact arrangement. This dimensional distribution along the length of the apparatus provides sufficient spacing between the heat exchange module and fluid management module, preventing thermal interference while maintaining structural simplicity through the linear configuration.
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 apparatus reduces the overall volume, stabilizes the mass center, and prevents interference between heat exchange and fluid management modules, enhancing the thermal management system's efficiency and compactness.
Implementation Method 1
The fluid management module is provided with a throttling chamber, a valve chamber and a first gas-liquid separation chamber. The valve chamber is in communication with the communication passage, and the valve core is located in the valve chamber. In an operating state of the fluid management apparatus, the valve core is able to communicate the valve chamber with the first gas-liquid separation chamber through the throttling chamber or through the conduction passage.
Implementation Method 2
The fluid management module is provided with a throttling chamber, a valve chamber and a first gas-liquid separation chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid management apparatus is provided. Along the stacking direction of plates, a first heat exchange module is located on one side of a connecting member, and a second heat exchange module is located on the other side of the connecting member. A fluid management module, the first heat exchange module and the second heat exchange module are located on different sides of the connecting member. At least a part of the fluid management module is located between a first side portion and a second side portion. The mass center of the fluid management apparatus is also relatively close to the connecting member. Furthermore, the heat exchange module and the fluid management module are located on different sides of the connecting member.