Modular Coolant Connector with Rotatable Ports for Compact Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coolant systems for vehicles and platforms lack an optimal configuration in terms of functionality, compactness, and versatility.
Innovation Solution
A modular coolant system with connectors that include a base with fluid passageways and rotatable ports with stops, allowing for angular positioning and easy insertion/removal of devices such as reservoirs, pumps, and valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If existing coolant systems use traditional rigid configurations with hoses and brackets, then structural stability is maintained, but device complexity and packaging space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coolant system is divided into modular connector units, each capable of independent function. Each connector can be separately configured and assembled, allowing the system to be segmented into functional modules rather than a single rigid structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design incorporates multiple ports and rotatable heads that can accommodate various inserted devices (reservoirs, pumps, valves) in different configurations. This universal interface allows one connector to serve multiple functions depending on device insertion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional coolant systems use fixed rigid connections, then structural stability is maintained, but adaptability and ease of operation decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates rotatable heads that can rotate to different angular positions, allowing dynamic adjustment of device orientation. The stops provide discrete angular positions while the rotatable mechanism enables easy repositioning without complete disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The stops are pre-positioned on the rotatable head to guide the insertion process and automatically establish correct angular positioning. This preliminary positioning action eliminates the need for precise manual alignment during installation.
3Ease of operation
If modular connectors with rotatable heads and stops are used, then adaptability and ease of operation improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable head and stops are merged into a single integrated component rather than separate parts. This combining reduces the number of individual elements while maintaining the rotational positioning functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The stops on the rotatable head automatically engage with the inserted device to self-position and self-lock at the correct angle. The system performs its own positioning function without requiring external alignment tools or complex adjustment mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
In an exemplary embodiment, a coolant system is provided that includes one or more connectors and a plurality of inserted devices. The one or more connectors are each configured to facilitate flow of coolant fluid of the coolant system, and each include a base and a plurality of ports. The base defines fluid passageways therein. The plurality of ports are coupled to the fluid passageways, and are configured to allow the flow of the coolant fluid therethrough. Each of the ports includes a rotatable head and a plurality of stops. The plurality of inserted devices each have respective mating components, and are each inserted within a respective one of the ports at an angle that is determined based on an engagement of the respective mating components with one or more of the plurality of stops of the rotatable head of the respective port.