Stacked Fluid Valve Module for Compact Thermal Flow Routing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional valve systems for vehicle heat exchangers consume valuable packaging space due to their design, which affects the size, weight, and cost of thermal management systems, while also requiring improved efficiency and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A multi-mode control module with a fluid valve assembly featuring stacked, independently rotating flow control members that optimize space usage and functionality, allowing for simultaneous and independent rotation of first and second flow control members to manage fluid flow in thermal management systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional valve systems with vertical inlets and diverter balls are used, then adequate performance for proportional flow applications is achieved, but valuable packaging space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions into a single integrated valve body with stacked flow control members. The first and second flow control members are positioned one above the other within the same valve housing, allowing multiple fluid control functions to be performed by a single compact component rather than requiring separate valve assemblies for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from horizontal flow control arrangements to a vertical stacked configuration. The flow control members are arranged in the vertical dimension (stacked one above the other) rather than requiring horizontal space, thereby reducing the horizontal packaging footprint while maintaining flow control functionality through vertical layering of control elements.
2Volume of moving object
If multiple flow control members are stacked, then space is minimized, but independent rotation control becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control mechanism into separate actuators for each flow control member. The first flow control member has its own actuator that can rotate it independently, and the second flow control member has its own actuator for independent rotation. This segmentation allows each stacked member to be controlled independently without requiring a complex interconnected control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic control where the flow control members can rotate to different angular positions independently of each other. The actuators provide dynamic adjustment capability, allowing each flow control member to be positioned at any angle within its range of motion, enabling flexible and independent control of multiple fluid streams through the stacked configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-mode control module for selectively controlling a flow of one or more fluids through a thermal management system is disclosed. The control module includes a fluid valve system in fluid communication with one or more fluid manifolds. The fluid valve system includes at least one fluid valve assembly disposed in a housing defining a plurality of flow paths. Each fluid valve assembly includes a plurality of flow control members in stacked relationship moveably disposed and selectively positionable within the housing to achieve various operating modes of the control module, and thereby, the thermal management system.