Integrated Heat Exchanger Valve Assembly for Compact Fluid Bypass
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional heat exchanger systems with external control valves and thermal bypass valves require multiple fluid connections, leading to increased costs, potential failure points, and size constraints, particularly in compact automobile systems.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a thermal valve mechanism and pressure bypass valve assembly directly into the heat exchanger assembly, utilizing a housing with specific fluid ports and manifolds, and a pressure bypass valve that blocks fluid flow at low pressures and allows flow at higher pressures, reducing the need for external connections and enhancing compactness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If control valves and thermal bypass valves are incorporated into heat exchanger systems by means of external fluid lines, then the system can achieve fluid direction control and temperature regulation, but the number of individual fluid connections increases, leading to increased costs, multiple potential failure points, and larger system size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control valve, thermal bypass valve, and heat exchanger into a single integrated assembly. The valve mechanisms are positioned within the heat exchanger housing, with fluid passages directly connecting the valves to the heat exchanger cores, eliminating the need for separate external fluid lines and multiple connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated assembly performs multiple functions simultaneously: the heat exchanger provides thermal exchange, while the control valve directs fluid flow to different heat exchanger cores based on temperature requirements, and the thermal bypass valve provides additional flow control. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate components and connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If control valves and thermal bypass valves are incorporated into heat exchanger systems by means of external fluid lines, then the system can achieve fluid direction control and temperature regulation, but the overall system size increases due to multiple components and connections
Solution Approach 1:
The control valves and heat exchanger are merged into a single compact assembly where the valves are positioned within the housing and fluid passages are integrated, eliminating the need for separate external lines and reducing overall system volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanisms are nested within the heat exchanger housing structure, with fluid passages routed through the housing walls directly to the heat exchanger cores. This nesting arrangement maximizes space utilization and minimizes the overall system footprint.
3Adaptability or versatility
If control valves and thermal bypass valves are incorporated into heat exchanger systems by means of external fluid lines, then the system can achieve fluid direction control, but the number of potential leakage points and failure points increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the control valves directly into the heat exchanger assembly with internal fluid passages, the patent reduces the number of external connection points where leaks could occur. The sealed integration minimizes exposure to external environmental factors and reduces potential failure points.
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 integration reduces the number of fluid connections, minimizes potential leakage points, and achieves a more compact design while maintaining efficient fluid management and temperature regulation within the heat exchanger system.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure bypass valve assembly adapted to block flow of the first fluid through the bypass flow passage where fluid pressure inside the heat exchanger is less than a threshold pressure, and to permit flow of the first fluid through the bypass flow passage
Implementation Method 2
a heat exchanger comprising: a plurality of alternating first and second fluid flow passages in heat exchange relation
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly includes a valve integration unit attached to a transmission oil heater. The valve integration unit includes a valve mechanism and a housing having first to sixth fluid ports for oil input and output. The interior space of the housing has a valve chamber to receive a thermal valve mechanism has a temperature responsive actuator. A bypass flow passage is located outside the heat exchanger and is in fluid communication with oil inlet and outlet manifolds through first and second bypass holes provided in the heat exchanger.