Thermal Management Module With Integrated Gaskets to Prevent Leakage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermal management modules face issues with complex and time-consuming assembly of gaskets, misplacement of loose components, and frequent leakage due to inefficient sealing between the actuator housing, pump housing, and fluid machines, leading to pressure drops and reliability concerns.
Innovation Solution
The integration of gaskets with the fluid hub housing and other components, such as the actuator and pump housings, through over-molding or 'cured in place' methods, ensures a reliable and efficient sealing connection, reducing the number of loose components and minimizing leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If gaskets are used as separate components between actuator housing, pump housing, and fluid hub housing, then sealing connection can be formed, but assembly becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The gasket is integrally formed with the actuator housing as a unified component, eliminating the need for separate gasket installation. The actuator housing now includes the gasket as an integrated sealing element that forms the sealing connection between the actuator housing and fluid hub housing during assembly, significantly simplifying the assembly process while maintaining reliable sealing.
2Reliability
If gaskets are used as loose components, then sealing can be achieved, but misplacement and displacement occur frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The gasket is merged into the actuator housing as an integrated component, eliminating the issues of misplacement and displacement. The sealing connection is now formed by the integrated gasket structure that is permanently attached to the actuator housing, ensuring proper positioning and eliminating the need for manual gasket handling during assembly.
Data Source
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AI summary
A thermal management module (100), in particular, for a vehicle comprises a fluid hub (20), at least a portion of a multi-way valve housing (23a) and at least a portion of a pump housing (42). The fluid hub (20) comprising at least one hub housing (22) formed with a plurality of fluid flow channels (24a, 24b). At least a portion of the multi-way valve housing (22) is in fluid communication with at least one fluid flow channel (24a, 24b). At least a portion of a pump housing (42), especially the pump volute, is in fluid communication with at least one fluid flow channel (24a, 24b). At least one of the fluid hub housing (23a), the portion of the multi-way valve housing (22), the portion of the pump housing (42) is integrally formed with at least one gasket (50).