Power Equipment Case Liquid Infiltration Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing case structure of power equipment units, such as those in hybrid and electric vehicles, is vulnerable to liquid infiltration through intake ports, which can lead to battery flooding, especially when liquids are spilled nearby.
Innovation Solution
A case structure design featuring a lid member with a cover member, a drain passage connected to a recess part, and a partition wall to prevent liquid from entering the case body, with the intake and drain ports positioned on different surfaces to facilitate drainage and maintain cooling functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If an intake port is provided for cooling air intake, then cooling efficiency is improved, but liquid infiltration risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The case structure is segmented into multiple functional zones: the intake port for cooling air, the recess part as a liquid collection zone, and the sealed case body. This segmentation allows the cooling function to be maintained while isolating the power equipment from liquid infiltration paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The recess part acts as an intermediary element between the intake port and the case body. It serves as a buffer zone that intercepts and collects liquid before it can reach the power equipment, while still allowing cooling air to pass through to the battery.
2Productivity
If the intake port is positioned to maximize cooling, then cooling performance is improved, but vulnerability to liquid spill increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the case structure are given different functional qualities: the intake port region is optimized for air flow and cooling performance, while the recess part is designed with liquid collection capability, and the case body maintains sealing. This local differentiation allows each zone to excel at its specific function without compromising overall system safety.
3Reliability
If a drain passage is added to prevent liquid accumulation, then liquid drainage capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drain passage is integrated into the existing case structure rather than being added as a separate external component. The drainage function is merged with the recess part design, allowing liquid to be channeled out through the case wall without requiring additional complex drainage systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The recess part serves multiple functions: it acts as a liquid collection zone, provides a pathway for the drain passage, and maintains the structural integrity of the case. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall device complexity.
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
Effectively prevents liquid infiltration into the power equipment unit while maintaining cooling efficiency, reducing the risk of battery flooding and minimizing component count by integrating drainage and intake functions within the existing design.
Implementation Method 1
a drain passage (44) communicating with a drain port (45) is connected with an outer circumference of the circumferential wall
Data Source
AI summary
A case structure of a power equipment unit which contains power equipment mounted in a vehicle includes: a case body which contains the power equipment and an upper portion of which is open; a lid member which covers the upper portion of the case body; and a cover member which is attached to the lid member and which covers at least an opening part formed in the lid member, wherein: an intake port for taking in air from outside is formed in the cover member; a space part is formed between the cover member and the lid member; the opening part of the lid member is surrounded by a circumferential wall having a cylindrical shape; and a drain passage communicating with a drain port is connected with an outer circumference of the circumferential wall.