Rotating Coolant Valve Cartridges for Real-Time Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermal management systems in internal combustion engines lack an efficient valve mechanism to dynamically adjust fluid flow rates and pathways as required by the vehicle's thermal management needs.
Innovation Solution
A rotating valve system comprising a housing with inlet and outlet ports, a valve assembly with rotating cartridges that can change their alignment to control fluid flow, and a drive assembly to rotate the cartridges between different positions for varying flow rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional coolant valve is used, then the structure is simple, but the ability to dynamically adjust fluid flow rates and pathways is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by using a rotating valve body with multiple inlet and outlet ports that can be oriented at different angles. The valve body rotates about an axis to dynamically change the alignment between inlet and outlet ports, thereby adjusting fluid flow pathways and rates in real-time according to thermal management requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the valve body into multiple functional ports (first inlet port, second inlet port, first outlet port, second outlet port) positioned at different locations and orientations. This segmentation allows independent control of multiple fluid pathways through selective rotation, enabling versatile flow distribution without requiring multiple separate valves.
2Productivity
If a rotating valve mechanism is implemented, then real-time flow adjustment is achieved, but the mechanical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single rotating valve body that performs multiple functions: it controls flow between different inlet-outlet port combinations, adjusts flow rates by varying the degree of alignment, and can maintain fixed flow pathways when needed. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate valves or complex valve assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing the rotation angle of the valve body as a controllable parameter. By changing the rotational position, the system dynamically adjusts the alignment between ports, thereby controlling flow rates and pathways. This single parameter (rotation angle) provides continuous control over multiple flow characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
A rotating valve system assembly for an internal combustion engine cooling system. The rotating valve system assembly including a housing, a valve assembly, an actuator, and a seal. The housing includes a valve cavity and a manifold which allows fluid flow to and from the rotating valve system. The valve assembly includes one or more cartridges, which control the volume of fluid that passes through the valve. The actuator turns the cartridges by interfacing with them via a drive gear that connects with a gear portion that is included on each cartridge. As the cartridges turn, exit holes that are disposed around the circumference of the cylinder bodies may overlap, partially or wholly, with an inlet port to the manifold of the housing, which allows control of the volume of fluid that flows through the valve and into the manifold and into the outside.