Integrated Fluid Connector Layout to Cut Thermal System Leaks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex thermal management systems face increased risks of leakage and occupy large spaces due to numerous connection points and components, leading to inefficiencies in fluid management.
Innovation Solution
A compact fluid management apparatus with a connector and fluid control portion, featuring a first accommodating cavity and communication channels with non-overlapping sub-channels, which reduces the volume and minimizes leakage by integrating components within a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are connected by means of multiple pipelines in a thermal management system, then the system can achieve complex fluid management functions, but the number of connection points increases leading to increased leakage risk and larger space occupation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fluid control components (electronic expansion valve, solenoid valves, sensors) into a single integrated connector assembly. The connector includes an accommodating cavity that houses these components internally, eliminating the need for separate external connections and reducing leakage risk while maintaining full fluid management functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed as a multi-functional integrated component that simultaneously performs fluid distribution, control valve functions, sensing, and accommodation of multiple subsystems. This universal connector replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate components and connection points.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are connected by means of multiple pipelines in a thermal management system, then the system can achieve complex fluid management functions, but the space occupied by the system becomes relatively large
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates an accommodating cavity that nests multiple fluid control components within its internal structure. The electronic expansion valve, solenoid valves, and sensors are housed inside the connector body, creating a compact nested arrangement that significantly reduces the overall space required compared to external component mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging multiple components into a single integrated connector assembly, the patent eliminates the space required for separate component housings and interconnecting pipelines, achieving compact integration while preserving all necessary fluid management functions.
3Volume of stationary object
If the communication channel includes a plurality of sub-channels with non-overlapping projections, then the connector achieves compact design with reduced volume, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication channel is segmented into multiple sub-channels with distinct non-overlapping projections, allowing each sub-channel to be independently defined and manufactured. This segmentation approach enables precise positioning of each fluid pathway within the connector while maintaining overall compact dimensions.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid management apparatus and a thermal management system are provided. The fluid management apparatus includes a connector and a fluid control portion. The connector has a first accommodating cavity which accommodates the fluid control portion, an opening of the first accommodating cavity is located on a first side portion, at least part of the wall of the first side portion is perpendicular to a first surface, and projections of sub-channels located on the connector on the first surface do not overlap.