Modular Power Module Cooling Passage for Compact EV Packaging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric power module systems for electrically operated vehicles lack efficient cooling solutions and compact design, particularly in on-board chargers and powertrains, which can lead to overheating and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
An electric power module system comprising a base module with a cooling passage and add-on module, where the cooling passage is delimited by surfaces of both modules, allowing for enhanced cooling and a more compact design, with power and signal connections hidden for improved handling and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a conventional power module system with separate cooling connections is used, then the cooling capability is sufficient for basic operation, but the system occupies more space and has reduced cooling efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cooling function into the power module structure itself by creating a cooling passage that utilizes the housing space. The housing serves dual purposes: structural enclosure and cooling channel, eliminating the need for separate cooling connections and external cooling components.
Solution Approach 2:
The cooling passage is nested within the housing structure of the power module. The housing contains the cooling channel internally, allowing the cooling function to be embedded within the existing structural volume rather than requiring additional external space.
2Power
If multiple external electrical connections are provided for power input/output, then the power conversion capacity is increased, but the handling and protection of connections becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The housing serves multiple functions: structural support, electrical connection interface, and protective enclosure. By integrating the connection interface into the housing, the system reduces the number of separate components while maintaining multiple power input/output capabilities.
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 solution provides improved cooling efficiency and a more compact design, reducing overheating risks and increasing power conversion capacity while minimizing external connections and wiring.
Implementation Method 1
a base module (2) comprising a cooling passage (5) for fluid coolant and coolant connections (6, 7) for supplying fluid coolant to the cooling passage (5)
Data Source
AI summary
An electric power module system (1) for use in an electrically operated vehicle (21), comprising: —a base module comprising a cooling passage for fluid coolant and coolant connections for supplying fluid coolant to the cooling passage, the base module further comprising at least one external electrical connection for power input to and/or power output from the electric power module system, —an add-on module configured to be mounted to and electrically connected to the base module, so that the add-on module, when mounted, can be cooled and powered via the base module. When the add-on module is mounted, the cooling passage is delimited by at least a first delimiting surface provided on the base module and a second delimiting surface provided on the add-on module, so that fluid coolant supplied via the coolant connections of the base module comes into contact with both of said delimiting surfaces.