Lubrication Cooler Flow Balancing via Static Blocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lubrication cooler systems for automotive components face challenges in providing tailored lubrication and cooling without excessive complexity and cost, particularly in manufacturing vehicles with varying performance characteristics, as active valve control adds complexity and may not always be necessary.
Innovation Solution
A simple mechanical device, such as a plug or threaded bolt, is used to preset the lubricant flow in the lubrication cooler system, allowing for static balancing by blocking flow paths by a predetermined amount, eliminating the need for active flow control valves and allowing for selection based on vehicle type during manufacture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If active control valves are used to vary oil flow through the cooler, then lubrication and cooling can be tailored to different operating conditions, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-setting the oil flow restriction using a blocking means (such as a plug or valve member with predetermined opening) that is installed during manufacture. This blocking means is positioned in advance to restrict oil flow through the cooler by a predetermined amount, eliminating the need for complex active control valves during operation. The system is prepared beforehand with the appropriate flow restriction selected based on the vehicle's expected operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simple, inexpensive blocking means (such as a plug or fixed valve member) instead of expensive active control valves. This blocking means is a simple mechanical component that can be easily manufactured and installed, providing the necessary flow restriction without the complexity and cost of electronically controlled valves, sensors, and control systems.
2Productivity
If a blocking means is inserted into the flow path, then the amount of lubricant flowing through the cooler is restricted, but the flow path becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the flow restriction function with existing components in the lubrication system. The blocking means is integrated into the cooler assembly or flow path in a way that combines the cooling function with the flow restriction function, rather than adding a separate complex control mechanism. This integration maintains simplicity while achieving the desired flow control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different blocking means are selected during manufacture, then the system can be tailored to different vehicle applications, but manufacturing processes become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by offering different types of blocking means (such as plugs with different restriction levels, or valve members with different opening areas) that can be selected and installed based on the specific vehicle application. This allows the lubrication system to be tailored to different operating conditions while maintaining a simple manufacturing process where the appropriate blocking means is simply selected and installed during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by pre-determining the appropriate blocking means for each vehicle application during the manufacturing process. The blocking means is selected and installed in advance based on the vehicle's expected operating conditions, allowing for application-specific tuning without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms or post-manufacturing calibration.
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 approach simplifies the manufacturing process and ensures appropriate lubricant flow and cooling balance without active control, reducing complexity and cost while maintaining effective lubrication and cooling performance.
Implementation Method 1
blocking means for blocking the flow path(s) by a predetermined amount in order to control the amount of lubricant that flows through the cooler
Implementation Method 2
a cooler in fluid communication with said pump assembly, said cooler having a inlet and an outlet
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A lubrication cooler system comprises a first flow path (18) connecting a lubrication inlet (40) and a lubrication outlet (42). A second flow path (16) is provided in parallel with the first flow path, connecting the lubrication inlet and outlet, and further comprising a lubrication cooler (22) therebetween. A means (38) for blocking all or a part of the first or second flow path is also provided. The blocking means provides a way of adjusting the lubricant flow in the first or second flow paths, to selectively balance the external lubricant cooling and internal lubrication requirements. The system may be used in automotive applications e.g. lubricating/cooling vehicle transmissions.