Vehicle Fluid Module With Angled Valve Channels for Compact Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermal management systems in vehicles face challenges in optimizing packaging and manufacturing processes, particularly in electric vehicles, where simplified and cost-effective air conditioning and heat pump systems are needed.
Innovation Solution
A fluid management module with a valve configuration that includes an inclined channel axis and a non-colinear arrangement of inlet and outlet axes, combined with a block and unit structure that allows for compact packaging and simplified manufacturing, using extrusion or stamping processes for channel formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional valve configurations with colinear inlet and outlet axes are used, then manufacturing processes are simpler, but packaging volume is larger and system compactness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by introducing an intermediary channel that is non-colinear with the inlet and outlet axes. The channel axis forms an angle between 25° and 75° with the inlet axis, transitioning from a traditional straight-through (1D) flow path to a multi-dimensional angled configuration. This angular arrangement allows the valve body to accommodate multiple flow directions within a compact volume, reducing overall packaging space while maintaining functional simplicity through standardized manufacturing processes.
2Volume of moving object
If complex channel configurations are used to reduce packaging volume, then compactness is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve body is segmented into distinct functional zones: an inlet part with the inlet axis, an intermediary channel section with the angled channel axis, and an outlet part with the outlet axis. This segmentation allows each section to be manufactured using standard processes and then assembled together, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the non-colinear configuration. The plunger mechanism is also segmented to work independently within the bore, simplifying the control of the angled flow path.
3Productivity
If the channel axis is non-colinear with inlet and outlet axes, then fluid distribution is optimized, but valve structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediary channel acts as a mediator between the inlet and outlet parts, providing an optimized fluid distribution path that is non-colinear with the inlet and outlet axes. This intermediary channel, forming an angle between 25° and 75° with the inlet axis, allows the fluid to be distributed more efficiently across the thermal management system while the overall valve structure remains manageable through modular design and standard manufacturing techniques.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid management module for a vehicle, including a block with at least a valve, and a unit. The unit includes a transferring plate, shaped to form at least one channel for receiving the fluid, and a flat support plate. The block and the unit are fluidly connected together, the valve being configured to distribute the fluid in the channel of the unit. An intermediary channel extends non-collinearly with an inlet part and an outer part of the valve.