Modular Vehicle Cooling Module for Compact Drive Unit Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle cooling systems are complex to integrate due to the varied positions of cooling system components, requiring separate installation spaces and making assembly challenging.
Innovation Solution
A modular cooling module with a housing containing interface units for a coolant container, pump unit, filter unit, and heat exchange unit, allowing for universal and flexible installation by accommodating all necessary components within a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If cooling system components are arranged in varied positions within the vehicle, then each component can be optimally positioned for its function, but the integration becomes complex and requires separate installation spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cooling system components (coolant container, pump unit, filter unit, heat exchange unit) into a single integrated cooling module housing. This merging approach maintains the functional positioning benefits of separate components while eliminating the integration complexity by pre-assembling them in a standardized configuration that can be installed as one unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The cooling module housing is designed with multiple interface units that can accommodate different component configurations, making the housing universal for various cooling system arrangements. This allows the same housing design to serve multiple functions and adapt to different vehicle types without requiring custom integration for each configuration.
2Ease of manufacture
If cooling system components are integrated into a modular housing, then assembly becomes easier and space is saved, but the housing design must accommodate multiple component interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is segmented into multiple interface units, each designed to receive a specific cooling component. This segmentation allows for standardized, modular assembly where components can be independently manufactured and then integrated into the housing through predefined interfaces, simplifying the overall assembly process despite the multi-functional requirements.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact cooling module design is used, then space is saved and universal installation is enabled, but component accessibility for maintenance may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling components are nested within the housing in a compact arrangement, with each component positioned within the volume of the housing. This nesting achieves space efficiency while maintaining accessibility through strategically placed interface units that allow service personnel to reach and service components without completely disassembling the housing.
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
The modular cooling module facilitates easier assembly and integration into various vehicle types, offering a compact, space-saving, and universally applicable cooling solution that can be easily removed and reused.
Implementation Method 1
a third interface unit (11) for receiving a predetermined heat exchange unit (12)
Implementation Method 2
a first interface unit (7) for receiving a predetermined pump unit (8)
Implementation Method 3
a second interface unit (9) for receiving a predetermined filter unit (10)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a cooling module (4) for a motor vehicle (1) for cooling at least one drive unit (2) of the motor vehicle, having a cooling module housing (6), the cooling module having the following components: - a coolant container (13) for providing a liquid or gaseous cooling medium (14); - a first interface unit (7) for receiving a specified pump unit (8); - a second interface unit (9) for receiving a specified filter unit (10); - a third interface unit (11) for receiving a specified heat exchange unit (12). The invention also relates to a motor vehicle (1) and a method.