Power Converter Coolant Flow Path for Uniform Upward Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power conversion devices in electric vehicles face challenges in cooling efficiency, leading to reduced performance and increased risk of fire due to high-temperature conditions during high-voltage power conversion.
Innovation Solution
A power conversion device design featuring a semiconductor module with a heat dissipation fin and a flow path that directs coolant upward to enhance heat exchange, utilizing a housing with a heat exchanger and guide portions to ensure uniform coolant flow and improved cooling efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If conventional cooling methods are used in power conversion devices, then the device structure remains simple, but cooling efficiency is insufficient leading to high temperatures and reduced service life
Solution Approach 1:
The flow path is segmented into multiple sections with different flow directions. The coolant flow path is divided into a first flow path section and a second flow path section, with the second section extending in a direction opposite to the first section. This segmentation allows the coolant to flow in opposite directions through different sections, improving heat exchange efficiency without requiring a completely complex overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension to the flow path design by having the second flow path section extend in a direction opposite to the first section. This dimensional change creates a more three-dimensional cooling structure that improves heat dissipation efficiency. The opposite extension direction allows the coolant to access different areas of the heat dissipation fin from multiple directions.
2Power
If high-voltage power conversion is performed, then power conversion capability is achieved, but high electrical currents generate excessive heat increasing fire risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful heat generated by high-voltage power conversion into a beneficial cooling effect. The flow path is designed to guide coolant through areas of high heat generation, and the heat dissipation fin structure is optimized to maximize heat transfer from the semiconductor device to the coolant. The opposite extension direction of the second flow path section ensures that coolant flows through the hottest areas first, converting the harmful heat into effective heat exchange.
3Temperature
If coolant flow is not optimized, then the device structure remains simple, but heat exchange between coolant and heat dissipation fin is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional flow path design by having the second flow path section extend in a direction opposite to the first section. Instead of a linear or unidirectional flow path, the coolant flows through the first section in one direction and then through the second section in the opposite direction. This inversion allows the coolant to contact the heat dissipation fin from multiple directions, improving heat exchange efficiency.
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 design enhances cooling efficiency, increases power conversion performance, extends the service life of internal elements, and reduces the risk of fire by ensuring uniform flow velocity and effective heat dissipation.
Implementation Method 1
heat exchange between the coolant and the heat dissipation fin may be improved
Implementation Method 2
a flow path through which a coolant flows, allowing the coolant to flow at least at an area where the heat dissipation fin is positioned
Data Source
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AI summary
A power conversion device is provided. The power conversion device includes a semiconductor module having a semiconductor device and a heat dissipation fin, and a flow path through which a coolant flows, allowing the coolant to flow at least at an area where the heat dissipation fin is positioned, wherein the flow path is configured to direct a flow of the coolant upward. Thereby, it is possible to enhance cooling efficiency, increase power conversion efficiency and performance, as well as the service life of internal elements, and reduce the risk of fire.