CN113442714A

CN113442714A - System and method for cooling vehicle components

Info

Publication number: CN113442714A
Application number: CN202110312991.7A
Authority: CN
Inventors: L·马洛; R·丹利
Original assignee: PonyAi Inc
Current assignee: PonyAi Inc
Priority date: 2020-03-25
Filing date: 2021-03-24
Publication date: 2021-09-28

Abstract

Systems and methods for cooling vehicle components are provided. The system includes one or more heat-generating components in a vehicle, and a coolant flow path connected to the two or more heat-generating components. The system comprises: a coolant pump configured to circulate coolant through the coolant flow path; and a reversing mechanism configured to reverse a circulation direction of the coolant.

Description

System and method for cooling vehicle components

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims benefit of U.S. application No. 62/994,689 filed on 25/3/2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to heat transfer for components in a vehicle.

Background

Cooling systems in vehicles are used to reduce the temperature of heat generating components, such as the engine, battery, and various electronic components of the vehicle. Because the cooling requirements of the engine and the computer system are different, electronic components such as vehicle computers may have a cooling system that is separate from the engine. The computer system in the vehicle may include a plurality of heat generating components, such as a CPU and one or more GPUs. A cooling system for a vehicle computer system may circulate a cooling fluid as a gas or liquid through one or more heat generating components of the vehicle. When the cooling fluid is in thermal contact with the heat generating component, heat is transferred to the cooling fluid. The amount of heat transferred from the heat generating component to the cooling fluid is directly proportional to the temperature difference between the cooling fluid and the heat generating component. In short, heat transfer to lower the temperature of the heat generating components is more efficient when the temperature of the cooling fluid is lower.

As heat is transferred to the coolant, the temperature of the coolant increases, which reduces the efficiency of any subsequent heat transfer. Therefore, the second or third heat-generating component in the cooling fluid flow path cannot obtain the same advantageous effect from the heat transfer as the first heat-generating component in the cooling fluid flow path.

A proposed solution to the problem of reducing the heat transfer efficiency of the cooling fluid involves creating multiple parallel cooling systems in the vehicle. However, multiple parallel cooling systems are expensive and take up valuable space in the vehicle. Another proposed solution is to increase the capacity of the cooling system so that the second and third heat-generating components in the cooling fluid flow path receive sufficient heat transfer from thermal contact with the cooling fluid. However, increasing the capacity (such as increasing the cooling fluid flow rate) to adequately cool the second and third heat-generating components is ineffective and may provide too much cooling for the first heat-generating component in the fluid flow path. There is a need in the art for a cooling system for heat generating components in a vehicle that effectively cools multiple heat generating components.

Disclosure of Invention

The present disclosure includes a system for cooling a component in a vehicle. In an exemplary embodiment, a system includes one or more heat-generating components in a vehicle, and a coolant flow path connected to the two or more heat-generating components. The system comprises: a coolant pump configured to circulate coolant through the coolant flow path; and a reversing mechanism configured to reverse a circulation direction of the coolant. The system may further include: one or more sensors that measure one or more characteristics of the one or more heat-generating components; and a controller configured to reverse the circulation direction by the reversing mechanism based on measurements from the one or more sensors. The controller may be configured to periodically reverse the circulation direction. The reversing mechanism may include one or more valves in the coolant flow path, wherein the one or more valves are configured to reverse the direction of circulation. The reversing mechanism may be incorporated in the coolant pump. The system may also include a refrigeration mechanism in the coolant flow path configured to reduce a temperature of the coolant, wherein the one or more sensors are configured to measure a temperature of the one or more heat-generating components. The controller may be configured to reverse the circulation of coolant to minimize a distance traveled by coolant between the refrigeration mechanism and a heat-generating component in the coolant flow path, the heat-generating component being determined based on temperature measurements by the one or more sensors. The at least one or more heat generating components may include an electronic processing unit, wherein the controller may be configured to reverse the circulation direction based on a throughput of the electronic processing unit. The throughput may be determined from one or more instructions queued to be processed by the electronic processing unit.

Another general aspect is a method, comprising: cooling one or more heat generating components in a vehicle with a coolant circulated through a coolant flow path by a coolant pump; and reversing the circulation direction of the coolant by a reversing mechanism. The method may further comprise: measuring one or more characteristics of the one or more heat-generating components, wherein the controller is configured to reverse the direction of circulation through the reversing mechanism based on measurements from the one or more sensors. The controller may be configured to periodically reverse the circulation direction. The reversing mechanism may include one or more valves in the coolant flow path, wherein the one or more valves are configured to reverse the direction of circulation. The reversing mechanism may be incorporated in the coolant pump. The method may further include reducing a temperature of the coolant in the coolant flow path by a refrigeration mechanism, wherein the one or more sensors are configured to measure a temperature of the one or more heat-generating components. The controller may be configured to reverse the circulation of coolant to minimize a distance traveled by coolant between the refrigeration mechanism and a heat-generating component in the coolant flow path, the heat-generating component being determined based on temperature measurements by the one or more sensors. At least one of the one or more heat-generating components may include an electronic processing unit, wherein the controller is configured to reverse the circulation direction based on a throughput of the electronic processing unit. The throughput may be determined from one or more instructions queued to be processed by the electronic processing unit.

In an exemplary embodiment, a system includes one or more electronic processing units in a vehicle, and a coolant flow path connected to the one or more electronic processing units. The system comprises: a coolant pump configured to circulate coolant through the coolant flow path; and a reversing mechanism configured to reverse a circulation direction of the coolant. The system comprises: one or more sensors that measure one or more characteristics of the one or more electronic processing units; and a controller configured to reverse the circulation direction by the reversing mechanism based on measurements from the one or more sensors. The controller may be configured to reverse the direction of circulation based on a processing load of the one or more electronic processing units. The controller may be configured to periodically reverse the circulation direction for a period of time that is based on the processing load of the one or more electronic processing units. The time period may also be based on measurements of characteristics of the one or more electronic processing units.

Drawings

Certain features of various embodiments of the technology are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present technology will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the disclosure are utilized, and the accompanying drawings, of which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system showing components that may be used in embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 2 is a schematic view of a cooling system with two heat generating components circulating in a forward direction.

Fig. 3 is a schematic view of a cooling system with two heat generating components circulating in opposite directions.

Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system with a reversing valve that can be cycled in both forward and reverse directions with two heat generating components.

Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system with a reversing valve that can be cycled in both forward and reverse directions with a single heat generating component having multiple sections.

FIG. 6 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the reversing valve in a forward cycle state.

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the reversing valve in a reverse cycle state.

Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system showing components that may be used in embodiments of the disclosed subject matter having multiple heat generating components.

Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system showing components that may be used in embodiments of the disclosed subject matter having a diverter mechanism placed between first and second and third heat generating components.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system showing components that may be used in embodiments of the disclosed subject matter having multiple cooling components.

Fig. 11A is a flowchart of a process for cooling a heat generating component by reversing the circulation direction of the coolant.

Fig. 11B is a flow diagram of a process for cooling a heat-generating component by reversing the direction of circulation of a coolant based on one or more characteristics of the heat-generating component.

Fig. 12 shows the reversible cooling system in a vehicle from a top view.

FIG. 13 is an illustration of a reversible cooling system in a vehicle having multiple heat generating batteries.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating computing components that may be used to implement various features of embodiments described in this disclosure.

Detailed Description

The disclosed subject matter is a system for cooling heat generating components in a vehicle by reversing the direction of circulation of a coolant flow. The heat generating components in the cooling flow path that are first cooled are cooled to a greater extent than additional heat generating components that are subsequently cooled in the cooling system. To correct for the imbalance, the disclosed subject matter describes a system that can reverse the direction of circulation of the cooling flow, such that the order of cooling the heat generating components is reversed.

Various heat generating components of a vehicle may have varying cooling requirements during operation of the vehicle. For example, a vehicle may include a CPU and a GPU as part of the vehicle's electronic system. The CPU and GPU may need to be cooled according to instructions that cannot be predictably initiated by the vehicle occupants. Both the CPU and GPU may generate heat as they process instructions, and active cooling may be required to remain within an optimal temperature range.

The system may include sensors on one or more heat-generating components to determine the cooling needs of the heat-generating components. The system may also include a controller that may receive measurements from the sensors. The sensors may measure various characteristics of the heat-generating component, such as temperature and process output. The controller may determine when the circulation direction of the cooling system should be reversed based on the measurement results from the sensors. In various embodiments, the controller may be configured to periodically reverse the direction of circulation of the cooling system to maintain balanced cooling for various heat generating components.

The circulation direction can be switched by a reversing mechanism. In various embodiments, the reversing mechanism may be a pump configured to have the ability to pump in a reverse direction. In an exemplary embodiment, the reversing mechanism may be a set of valves in the coolant flow path that, when activated, may switch the direction of circulation of coolant in the coolant flow path.

In an exemplary embodiment, the cooling system may include one or more batteries that generate heat and require cooling. Various portions of one or more cells may be cooled at different rates based on the direction of coolant flow. By periodically reversing the direction of circulation of the coolant, the battery can be cooled more uniformly.

Referring to FIG. 1, FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system 100 showing components that may be used in embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. The cooling system 100 may be used to efficiently transfer heat from heat-generating components in the vehicle 102 that are in contact with a cooling fluid flowing in a coolant fluid flow path 110. The vehicle 102 may be any of a variety of machines for transporting people or things, including but not limited to: automobiles, motorcycles, trucks, trains, airplanes, helicopters, and boats. The coolant in the coolant fluid flow path 110 is a fluid that may be a gas or a liquid. In various embodiments, the coolant is water. In the exemplary embodiment, the coolant is ethylene glycol or a related chemical commonly referred to as antifreeze.

The coolant fluid flow path 110 may flow through the coolant pump 120, the fluid cooler 126, and the heat generating component 128. The coolant fluid flow path 110 may contain coolant that is propelled by a coolant pump 120. The coolant in the coolant fluid flow path 110 may be in thermal contact and in heat transfer with various components in the coolant fluid flow path 110. When in thermal contact, the coolant and the heat generating component 128 will transfer heat to each other. Heat is transferred from a higher temperature object or substance to a lower temperature object or substance.

The coolant pump 120 may include a circulation mechanism 124 in the coolant fluid flow path 110, the circulation mechanism 124 creating a movement of coolant in the coolant fluid flow path 110. In various embodiments, the circulation mechanism 124 may be a centrifugal pump that generates pressure by rotating the coolant about an impeller. In an exemplary embodiment, the circulation mechanism 124 may be a rotary pump that rotates one or more components to displace and propel fluid in a desired circulation direction. Various types of pumps may include a reversing mechanism 122 whereby the pump may operate in a reverse direction. The rotary pump may operate in a reverse direction, while the centrifugal pump may operate only in a forward direction.

As shown in fig. 1, the reversing mechanism 122 may be included in the coolant pump 120. When the coolant pump is a rotary pump, the reversing mechanism 122 may be a mechanism that allows the rotary pump to operate in a reverse direction. In various embodiments, the reversing mechanism is a set of valves that, when activated, reverse the direction of circulation of coolant around the coolant fluid flow path 110. In various embodiments, a set of valves comprising the reversing mechanism may be included in the coolant pump 120. As shown in fig. 1, the cooling system 100 has a single reversing mechanism 122. In an exemplary embodiment, the reversing mechanism 122 may be separate from the coolant pump 120. In various embodiments, the cooling system 100 may have more than one diverter mechanism 122.

The fluid cooler 126 reduces the temperature of the incoming coolant in contact with the fluid cooler 126. The fluid cooler 126 may include a refrigeration mechanism that actively reduces the temperature of the coolant flowing through the fluid cooler 126. In the exemplary embodiment, fluid cooler 126 includes a compressor, an expansion valve, and an evaporator. The compressor compresses refrigerant gas to a high pressure. The refrigerant may condense to a liquid in the compressor. The expansion valve expands the volume of a space holding the refrigerant, thereby reducing the temperature of the refrigerant. In the evaporator, the cold refrigerant is in thermal contact with the coolant. The coolant transfers heat to the cold refrigerant, thereby evaporating the refrigerant back into the gas.

In various embodiments, the fluid cooler 126 is a heat spreader of the vehicle 102 that cools the coolant passing through it. The heat spreader may include a thin tube that is exposed to air that passes through the carrier 102 as the carrier 102 moves. The tubules of the heat spreader are contained in the coolant fluid flow path 110. As the coolant flows through the heat rejector, the coolant is cooled. In various embodiments, the cooling system 100 may include more than one fluid cooler 126. For example, the cooling system 100 may include a chiller and a heat spreader. A refrigerated cooler may lower the temperature of the coolant more efficiently than a heat spreader and may therefore be used on the most sensitive heat generating components (such as batteries).

The coolant may be in thermal contact with the heat-generating component 128 to effect heat transfer with the heat-generating component 128. In various embodiments, the temperature of the coolant is reduced by the fluid cooler 126 before being in thermal contact with the heat generating component 128. Heat may be transferred from the heat-generating component 128 to the coolant in the coolant fluid flow path 110, thus reducing the temperature of the heat-generating component 128. In various embodiments, the cooling system 100 may be configured to increase the temperature of the heat-generating component 128. For example, when a battery in the vehicle 102 is below a temperature range, the battery may require heating.

The heat-generating component 128 may include one or more sensors 130 that measure one or more characteristics of the heat-generating component 128. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor 130 may measure the temperature of the heat generating component 128. The heat generating component 128 may have multiple temperature sensors. For example, the heat-generating component 128 may include a temperature sensor at the front 132 of the heat-generating component 128 and a temperature sensor at the rear 134 of the heat-generating component 128. When the temperature sensor indicates that the temperature of the rear portion 134 is significantly higher than the temperature of the front portion 132, the direction of circulation of the coolant may be reversed such that the coolant enters the heat-generating component 128 through the rear portion 134 and exits from the front portion 132. Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment, the sensor 130 may measure the output of the heat-generating component 128, such as the throughput of the heat-generating component 128. The direction of circulation of the coolant may be reversed based on the output of the heat generating component 128.

The controller 104 may send a signal that, when executed, reverses the direction of circulation of the coolant in the coolant fluid flow path 110. The controller 104 may include a processor and a memory. The measurements from the sensor 130 may be communicated to the controller 104. Based on the measurement results, the controller 104 may determine the direction of circulation. For example, the controller 104 may determine a circulation direction that minimizes the distance the coolant travels between the fluid cooler 126 and the heat generating component 128 having high temperature measurements in the coolant fluid flow path 110. In various embodiments, the controller 104 may be configured to determine a period of time during which the direction of circulation is continuously reversed.

The vehicle 102 may include a vehicle drive component 112 that effects movement of the vehicle 102. The vehicle drive components 112 may include components that convert energy into motion that propels the vehicle 102 and components that direct the motion of the vehicle 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the vehicle drive component 112 may include an electric motor 114 and an energy storage device 116. The motor 114 may convert the energy storage device 116 into mechanical motion that moves the vehicle. In various embodiments, the electric motor 114 is an internal combustion engine that converts energy in the liquid fuel into mechanical motion. In the exemplary embodiment, motor 114 is an electric motor that converts electrical energy from a battery into mechanical motion. The battery may be a heat generating component 128 in thermal contact with the coolant in the coolant fluid flow path 110.

Referring to fig. 2, fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system 200 with two heat generating components circulating in a forward direction. The cooling system 200 may include a pump and cooler 202, a first heat generating component 204, and a second heat generating component 206 on a coolant fluid flow path 210. The pump and cooler 202 may cool and circulate coolant through the coolant fluid flow path 210.

As shown in fig. 2, the pump and cooler circulate the coolant at 20 ℃. The coolant circulates through the coolant fluid flow path 210 in a clockwise direction. The coolant at 20 c is pushed from the pump and cooler 202 to the first heat-generating component 204. As shown, the first heat-generating component 204 is 50 ℃ and the temperature difference is 30 ℃. The efficiency of heat transfer from the first heat-generating component 204 to the coolant is directly proportional to the temperature difference.

As shown in fig. 2, after the first heat-generating part 204 transfers heat to the coolant, the temperature of the coolant is increased to 25 ℃. The second heat generating component 206 is 40 deg.c. The temperature difference between the coolant and the second heat generating component 206 is 15 deg.c. Therefore, the heat transfer between the second heat-generating component 206 and the coolant, which is directly proportional to the temperature difference, is less efficient for the second heat-generating component 206 than for the first heat-generating component 204. After receiving heat from the second heat-generating component 206, the coolant flows through the coolant fluid flow path 210 to the pump and cooler 202. In various embodiments, the pump and cooler 202 may reverse the direction of circulation of the coolant based on the temperature of one or more heat generating components. The direction of circulation may be reversed as shown in fig. 3.

Referring to fig. 3, fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system 300 with two heat generating components circulating in opposite directions. The efficiency of heat transfer between the first heat-generating member 304 and the coolant may depend on the circulation direction of the coolant. As shown in fig. 3, the pump and cooler 302 forces the coolant in a counterclockwise direction to circulate through the coolant fluid flow path 310. The pump and cooler 302 pushes the 20 c coolant to the second heat generating component 306, which has a temperature of 50 c.

When heat is transferred from the second heat-generating component 306 to the coolant, the temperature difference between the second heat-generating component 306 and the coolant is 30 ℃. After the heat transfer, the temperature of the coolant is increased to 23 ℃. The temperature of the first heat-generating component 304 is 50 ℃. The temperature difference between the first heat-generating component 304 and the coolant is 28 ℃.

Referring to fig. 4, fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system 400 having a reversing mechanism 404 that can circulate coolant in both a forward direction and a reverse direction using two heat generating components for the reversing mechanism 404. As shown in fig. 4, a pump and cooler 402 pushes coolant at 20 ℃ to a reversing mechanism 404. The pump and cooler 402 also receives coolant from the reversing mechanism 404 after the coolant has circulated through the coolant fluid flow path 410.

The reversing mechanism 404 is configured to direct the coolant to circulate in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, as indicated by the double arrow. The reversing mechanism 404 may be in a forward state whereby coolant is directed through the coolant fluid flow path 410 in a clockwise direction. Alternatively, the reversing mechanism 404 may be in a reverse state, whereby coolant is directed through the coolant fluid flow path 410 in a counterclockwise direction. The pump and cooler 402 may circulate fluid in a single direction when the reversing mechanism 404 is switched between the forward state and the reverse state.

When the reversing mechanism 404 is in the forward state, the coolant of 20 ℃ is guided to the first heat generating component 406 having a temperature of 50 ℃. The temperature difference was 30 ℃. After heat is transferred from the first heat-generating component 406 to the coolant, the coolant temperature rises to 25 ℃. The coolant is directed to the second heat generating component 408 having a temperature of 50 deg.c. The temperature difference between the coolant and the second heat generating component 408 is 25 deg.c. After exchanging heat with the second heat-generating component 408, the coolant is directed back to the reversing mechanism 404.

When the reversing mechanism 404 is in the reverse state, the coolant at 20 ℃ is circulated in the counterclockwise direction to the second heat generating component 408 at 50 ℃. The temperature difference between the second heat generating component 408 and the coolant is 30 deg.c. As shown in fig. 4, the temperature of the coolant may be increased to 23 ℃ after exchanging heat with the second heat-generating component 408. The coolant is led to the first heat generating component 406 at a temperature of 50 deg.c. The temperature difference between the first heat-generating component 406 and the coolant is 27 ℃. After exchanging heat with the first heat-generating component 406, the coolant is circulated back to the reversing mechanism 404.

Referring to fig. 5, fig. 5 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system 500 having a diverter valve 504 that can circulate coolant in both forward and reverse directions using a single heat-generating component 508 having multiple sections. The pump and cooler 502 may cool and circulate the coolant to the reversing valve 504, which reversing valve 504 may direct the coolant in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction in the coolant fluid flow path 510. The single heat-generating component 508 may be large enough so that various portions of the single heat-generating component 508 may have different temperatures.

As shown in fig. 5, the single heat-generating component 508 is arbitrarily divided into four parts. When the coolant flows in a clockwise direction, the 10 ℃ coolant may enter the single heat-generating component 508 in the 30 ℃ first portion 512. As shown in fig. 5, the temperature difference was 20 ℃. The coolant and the first portion may exchange heat such that the temperature of the coolant increases to 12 ℃ as the coolant enters the 30 ℃ second portion 514. As shown in fig. 5, the temperature difference between the coolant and the second portion is 18 ℃. Similarly, as the coolant flows through the single heat-generating component 508, the temperature of the coolant gradually increases such that the temperature difference in the third portion 516 is 16 ℃ and the temperature difference in the fourth portion 518 is 14 ℃.

When the reversing mechanism is switched to the reverse state, coolant can flow through the coolant fluid flow path 510 in a counterclockwise direction. When flowing in the counterclockwise direction, the 10 ℃ coolant may enter the individual heat-generating components 508 in the fourth portion 518 of 30 ℃. As shown in fig. 5, the temperature difference was 20 ℃. As heat is transferred from the single heat-generating component 508 to the coolant, the temperature of the coolant gradually increases such that the temperature difference of the third portion 516 is 18 ℃, the temperature difference of the second portion 514 is 16 ℃, and the temperature difference of the first portion 512 is 14 ℃.

As shown in fig. 5, as the coolant flows through the individual heat-generating components 508, the temperature of the coolant increases, which results in a gradual decrease in the temperature difference. As the rate of heat transfer is proportional to the temperature difference, the efficiency of heat transfer decreases as the coolant flows through the individual heat-generating components 508. If the coolant flows in only one direction, various portions of a single heat-generating component 508 may cool at different rates and attain different temperatures. In an exemplary embodiment, the single heat-generating component 508 may include a vehicle battery. Portions of the battery may degrade at various rates depending on the operating temperature of the portion. Thus, the battery may benefit from reversing the direction of circulation of the coolant so that the temperatures of various portions of the battery average close to the same temperature.

Referring to FIG. 6, FIG. 6 is a schematic 600 of an embodiment of a reversing mechanism including a reversing valve 602 in a forward cycle state. The reversing valve 602 may be configured to direct coolant flowing in a forward or reverse direction through the coolant fluid flow path 110 into the inlet 606. When the reversing valve 602 is in the forward cycle state, as shown in FIG. 6, the coolant is directed in the forward direction. Alternatively, when the reversing valve is in the reverse cycle state, the coolant is directed in the reverse direction.

The coolant may enter the reversing valve at an inlet 606. When the reversing valve 602 is in the forward circulation state, coolant may be directed to the forward port 620, as indicated by the arrow leading from the inlet 606 to the forward port 620. Coolant exiting the reversing valve 602 through the forward port 620 may circulate through the coolant fluid flow path 110 and enter the reversing valve through the reverse port 618. Coolant entering the reversing valve 602 through the reversing port 618 may be directed to the outlet 604 of the reversing valve 602, as indicated by the arrow leading from the reversing port 618 to the outlet 604.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the directional valve 602 includes four three-way valves. Four three-way valves, indicated at 608, 610, 612 and 614, can switch the reversing valve 602 between the forward and reverse states. As shown in fig. 6, the

valves

608 and 610 are configured to direct coolant from the inlet 606 to the forward port 620 when the reversing valve is in the forward cycle state. And as also shown in fig. 6, the

valves

614 and 612 are configured to direct coolant entering the direction valve 602 from the reverse port 618 to the outlet 604 when the direction valve 602 is in the forward circulation state. Alternatively, and as shown in fig. 7, when the reversing valve 602 is in the reverse cycle state, coolant may be directed from the inlet 606 to the reversing port 618. Likewise, when the reversing valve 602 is in the reverse cycle state, coolant may be directed from the forward port 620 to the outlet 604.

Referring to FIG. 7, FIG. 7 is a schematic 700 of an embodiment of a reversing valve 702 in a reverse cycle state. Four of the three-way valves in the directional valve 702 may be activated to switch the directional valve from directing coolant in one direction to directing coolant in the other direction. Coolant entering the reversing valve 702 at the inlet 706 is directed to the reversing port 718, as shown in fig. 7 by the arrow leading from the inlet 706 to the reversing port 718. Also, when the reversing valve 702 is in the reverse cycle state, coolant entering the reversing valve at the forward port 720 is directed to the outlet 704, as shown by the arrow leading from the forward port 720 to the outlet 704.

As shown in fig. 7,

valves

708 and 714 are configured to direct coolant from inlet 706 to a reverse port 718.

Valves

710 and 712 are configured to direct coolant from forward port 720 to outlet 704. In an exemplary embodiment, the three-way valve in the reversing valve 702 can be switched between a forward cycle state and a reverse cycle state in response to a signal sent from the controller 104. Also, in exemplary embodiments, the cooling system 100 may include more than one diverter valve 702. In various embodiments, the coolant may enter the reversing valve 702 through the outlet 704 and exit through the inlet 706 based on the direction of circulation of the coolant entering the reversing valve 702.

Referring to fig. 8, fig. 8 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system 800 showing components that may be used in embodiments of the disclosed subject matter having multiple heat generating components. As shown in fig. 8, the cooling system 800 may include more than one heat generating component. The heat generating components may include various vehicle components that generate heat and require cooling from the coolant flowing through the coolant fluid flow path 810.

The heat-generating component may include a sensor that measures one or more characteristics of the heat-generating component. Measurements of one or more characteristics of the heat-generating component may be communicated to the controller 104. The controller 104 may determine the direction of circulation of the cooling system 800 based on measurements of one or more characteristics of the heat-generating components.

As shown in fig. 8, first, second, and third heat-generating

components

802, 804, and 806 may be fluidly connected to a coolant fluid flow path 810. The coolant may be circulated through the coolant fluid flow path by a circulation mechanism 124 of the coolant pump 120. As the coolant is circulated in a forward direction by the circulation mechanism 124, the coolant may be forced from the circulation mechanism through the fluid cooler 126 to the first heat-generating component 802. Heat transfer may be achieved between the first heating member 802 and the coolant, which may cool the first heating member 802 and heat the coolant.

The coolant may be pushed from the first heat-generating component 802 to the second heat-generating component 804, wherein heat transfer is achieved between the second heat-generating component 804 and the coolant. The second heat-generating component 804 may be cooled and the coolant may be heated by heat transfer. Similarly, the coolant may be pushed from second heat-generating component 804 to third heat-generating component 806, where third heat-generating component 806 may be cooled and the coolant may be further heated.

The direction of circulation of the coolant in the coolant fluid flow path 810 may be switched by the reversing mechanism 122 so that the coolant is pushed from the circulating mechanism to the third heat-generating component 806. The reversing mechanism 122 may switch the direction of circulation of the coolant in the coolant fluid flow path 810 in response to a command from the controller 104. In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 104 may determine the direction of circulation based on temperature measurements from sensors in the heat-generating component. For example, the controller 104 may determine that the cooling system 800 should cycle in the reverse direction based on high temperature measurements from the third heat-generating component 806. In the reverse direction, the coolant flows from the fluid cooler 126 to the third heat-generating component 806 without being heated by other heat-generating components. Thus, the temperature of the coolant when it flows in the reverse direction may be lower than the temperature in the forward direction when the coolant is in thermal contact with the third heat-generating component 806. Also, the temperature of the coolant when it flows in the forward direction may be lower than when it is in thermal contact with the first heat-generating component 802.

In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 104 may be configured to periodically change the direction of the cycle. The direction of the cycle may transition back and forth based on a timer. By periodically changing the direction of circulation of the coolant in the cooling system 800, the heat generating components may each receive a similar amount of heat transfer, on average, from thermal contact with the coolant. The time period before each transition may be preset by the controller 104. Alternatively, the controller 104 may determine the time period based on measurements from sensors in the heat-generating component. The time periods in the forward and reverse directions may be the same or different. In one example where the first heat-generating component 802 has a greater cooling demand than the third heat-generating component 806, the controller 104 may be configured to maintain the reversing mechanism in the forward cycle state for a longer period of time than the reverse cycle state.

Referring to fig. 9, fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system 900 showing components that may be used in embodiments of the disclosed subject matter having a diverter mechanism 904 placed between a first heat-generating component 902 and second and third heat-generating components. The coolant pump 920 may incorporate the circulation mechanism 124 and the fluid cooler 126 such that the coolant pump 920 circulates and cools the coolant.

As shown in fig. 9, the coolant may be directly circulated from the coolant pump 920 to the first heat generating part 902. Therefore, the temperature of the coolant when the coolant is in thermal contact with the first heat-generating component 902 may be lower than that when the coolant is in thermal contact with other heat-generating components. The coolant may be directed from the first heat-generating component 902 to the reversing mechanism 904. In an exemplary embodiment, the diverter mechanism 904 may include a diverter valve as shown in FIG. 6.

As shown in fig. 9, coolant may be directed from the diverter mechanism 904 to one of the second 906 or third 908 heat-generating components. The reversing mechanism 904 may switch the circulation direction of the coolant circulating to the third and second heat-generating components based on a signal from the controller 104. In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 104 may determine the direction of circulation based on measurements of characteristics of the second and/or third heat-generating

components

906, 908. Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment, the controller 104 may periodically switch the direction of the cycle.

Referring to fig. 10, fig. 10 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system 1000 showing components that may be used in embodiments of the disclosed subject matter having multiple cooling components. In the embodiment shown in fig. 10, the cooling system 1000 has two components that cool the coolant flowing on the coolant fluid flow path 1010. The fluid cooler 126 and heat spreader 1006 may extract heat from the coolant in thermal contact with them.

As shown in FIG. 10, the coolant pump 1020 may include a circulation mechanism 124, a fluid cooler 126, and a first reversing mechanism 1002. The coolant may be directed from the coolant pump 1020 to the first heat-generating component 1004 in a forward direction or a reverse direction. In various embodiments, the coolant fluid flow path 1010 may be fluidly connected to the first heat-generating component 1004 such that coolant may enter the first heat-generating component 1004 at either the first location 1030 or the second location 1032, depending on the direction of circulation.

The coolant may be directed from the first heat-generating component 1004 to a heat spreader 1006, which heat spreader 1006 may exchange heat with the coolant to reduce the temperature of the coolant. The coolant may flow from the heat spreader 1006 to the second reversing mechanism 1008. The second reversing mechanism 1008 can direct the direction of circulation of the coolant when the coolant is in thermal contact with the second heat-generating component 1014 and the third heat-generating component 1012. The order in which the coolant exchanges heat with the second 1014 and third 1012 heat-generating components may be dictated by the state of the second reversing mechanism 1008. In various embodiments, the controller 104 may determine the state of the second reversing mechanism 1008 based on measurements from sensors in the second and third heat-generating

components

1014, 1012.

Referring to fig. 11A, fig. 11A is a flowchart 1100 of a process for cooling a heat generating component by reversing the direction of circulation of a coolant. The process may be used to uniformly cool heat generating components. When the coolant becomes hot due to the coolant exchanging heat with the heat generating components on the coolant fluid flow path 110, the efficiency of heat transfer from the heat generating components decreases. By reversing the direction of circulation of the coolant, the heat generating components can be cooled more uniformly.

In step 1105, the cooling system 100 may cool one or more heat generating components 128 in the vehicle 102 with coolant circulated through a coolant flow path by a coolant pump 120. The one or more heat-generating components 128 are cooled by thermal contact with a coolant having a lower temperature than the heat-generating components 128. The coolant may be cooled by a fluid cooler 126 in the vehicle 102.

At step 1110, the cooling system 100 may reverse the direction of circulation of the coolant via the reversing mechanism 122. The reversing mechanism 122 may include a variety of mechanisms, including but not limited to: a portion of the coolant pump 120 or a reversing valve. In various embodiments, the reversing mechanism 122 may receive a signal from the controller 104 that, when executed, causes the reversing mechanism 122 to switch the direction of the cycle to either the forward direction or the reverse direction.

Referring to fig. 11B, fig. 11B is a flow diagram of a process 1500 for cooling a heat-generating component 128 by reversing the direction of circulation of a coolant based on one or more characteristics of the heat-generating component 128. Process 1150 may be used to switch the direction of circulation in response to active monitoring of cooling system 100. Monitoring of cooling system 100 may be accomplished by controller 104 receiving signals from various components of cooling system 100.

In step 1155, the sensor 130 may measure one or more characteristics of one or more heat-generating components. The sensor 130 may be incorporated into the heat-generating component 128 or may be separate from the heat-generating component 128. In various embodiments, one sensor 130 may measure a characteristic of more than one heat-generating component 128. The measurement results may be communicated from the sensor 130 to the controller 104.

In step 1160, the controller may determine a direction of circulation based on one or more characteristics. In one example, the controller 104 may determine the direction of cycling based on temperature measurements of one or more heat-generating components 128. Once the controller 104 determines the direction of circulation, the controller 104 may transmit a signal to a reversing mechanism that, when executed, reverses the direction of circulation.

Referring to fig. 12, fig. 12 shows a diagram of cooling system 100 in a vehicle 1200 from a top view. The cooling system 100 may be used to cool heat generating components, such as various electronic components, in the vehicle 1200. In various embodiments, the output of the electronic component is unpredictable and varies depending on a number of factors. As a result, the heat generated by the electronic components may vary unpredictably during operation of the vehicle. The cooling system 100 is configured to react to unpredictable heat generation by various electronic components by reversing the direction of circulation of all or a portion of the coolant fluid flow path 110. When the circulation direction is reversed, the electronic components may exchange heat with the coolant in the reverse order.

The pump 1202 may operate to force coolant throughout the vehicle 1200. As shown in fig. 12, the pump 1202 forces the coolant toward the cooler 1204. Cooler 1204 may be any of a variety of mechanisms for reducing the temperature of a coolant flowing through the mechanism. In the exemplary embodiment, cooler 1204 is a refrigeration mechanism that includes a compressor, an expansion valve, and an evaporator. The coolant, the temperature of which has been reduced by the cooler 1204, is pushed to the inlet of the first reversing mechanism 1206.

In various embodiments, the first reversing mechanism may include a plurality of three-way valves, as shown in fig. 6 and 7. The coolant passing from the cooler 1204 to the first reversing mechanism 1206 can be directed in one of two directions to circulate to the battery 1208. The coolant may allow the side of the battery 1208 where the coolant enters to be cooled more efficiently than the side of the battery 1208 where the coolant exits. In an exemplary embodiment, the first reversing mechanism 1206 may periodically reverse the direction of circulation such that both sides of the battery 1208 receive the same amount of cooling on average.

As shown in fig. 12, the coolant may be directed from the battery 1208 back to the first reversing mechanism 1206. The coolant may be pushed from the outlet of the first reversing mechanism 1206 to the heat spreader 1216 of the vehicle 1200. The coolant, which may be heated by the battery 1208, may be cooled by a heat spreader 1216 before being pushed to the inlet of the second reversing mechanism 1214. The second direction changing mechanism 1214 may guide the coolant from the inlet thereof in one of two directions to cool the first electronic component 1210 and the second electronic component 1212. The direction of circulation of the second reversing mechanism 1214 may determine the order in which the coolant is in thermal contact with the first and second

electronic components

1210, 1212. The coolant may be pushed from the first electronic component 1210 and the second electronic component 1212 back to the second reversing mechanism 1214. The coolant may be directed from the outlet of the second reversing mechanism 1214 back to the pump 1202.

The first 1210 and second 1212 electronic components may include electronic processing units that process instructions. The controller 104 may determine the direction of circulation based on the throughput of the electronic processing unit. The sensor 130 can measure the throughput of the electronic processing unit and communicate the throughput to the controller 104 so that the controller 104 determines the direction of circulation. In various embodiments, instructions in an electronic processing unit may be queued. The controller 104 may determine the direction of circulation based on the electronic processing unit having the greatest processing load in its queue. The controller 104 can transmit a signal to the second diverting mechanism 1214 to achieve the cyclical direction based on the determination.

Referring to fig. 13, fig. 13 is an illustration of a cooling system 1300 in a vehicle 1312 having a plurality of heat generating cells 1310. The cooling system 1300 may include a reversing mechanism 1302, the reversing mechanism 1302 being fluidly coupled to a coolant flowing in a coolant fluid flow path 1314. The coolant is circulated by a pump 1304. As shown in fig. 13, a plurality of heat generating cells 1310 may be connected in parallel with the coolant fluid flow path 1314.

The vehicle 1312 may include one or more components to cool the coolant in the coolant fluid flow path 1314. As shown in fig. 13, the cooling system 1300 includes a cooler 1306 and a heat spreader 1308. The warmed coolant may be cooled by a heat spreader 1308 and further cooled by a cooler 1306. The coolant is circulated to the pump 1304 through a radiator 1308 and a cooler 1306. The pump 1304 directs the coolant to the reversing mechanism 1302.

The reversing mechanism 1302 may direct coolant to the plurality of heat generating cells 1310. As shown in fig. 13, a plurality of heat generating cells 1310 are connected in parallel to the coolant fluid flow path 1314. Depending on the state of the reversing mechanism 1302, the coolant may be directed from the reversing mechanism 1302 through the plurality of heat generating cells 1310 in either a forward direction or a reverse direction. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of heat generating cells 1310 may include two or more temperature sensors for measuring the temperature of portions of the plurality of heat generating cells 1310. The reversing mechanism 1302 may be configured to switch the direction of circulation based on temperature measurements from the sensors. Also, in an exemplary embodiment, the reversing mechanism 1302 may be configured to periodically switch the circulation direction of the coolant.

Fig. 14 is a block diagram that illustrates a computer system 1400 upon which various embodiments of the controller 104 may be implemented. Computer system 1400 includes a bus 1402 or other communication mechanism for communicating information, one or more hardware processors 1404 coupled with bus 1402 for processing information. Hardware processor 1404 may be, for example, one or more general purpose microprocessors.

Computer system 1400 also includes a main memory 1406, such as a Random Access Memory (RAM), cache memory, and/or other dynamic storage device, coupled to bus 1402 for storing information and instructions to be executed by processor 1404. Main memory 1406 also may be used for storing temporary variables or other intermediate information during execution of instructions to be executed by processor 1404. Such instructions, when stored in a storage medium accessible to processor 1404, cause computer system 1400 to be a special-purpose machine that is customized to perform the operations specified in the instructions.

Computer system 1400 also includes a Read Only Memory (ROM)1408 or other static storage device coupled to bus 1402 for storing static information and instructions for processor 1404. A storage device 1410, such as a magnetic disk, optical disk or USB thumb drive (flash drive) is provided and coupled to bus 1402 for storing information and instructions.

Computer system 1400 can be coupled via bus 1402 to an output device, such as a Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) or LCD display (or touch screen), for displaying information to a computer user. An input device, including alphanumeric and other keys, is coupled to bus 1402 for communicating information and command selections to processor 1404. Another type of user input device is a cursor control, such as a mouse, a trackball, or cursor direction keys for communicating direction information and command selections to processor 1404 and for controlling cursor movement on an output device. Typically, the input device has two degrees of freedom in two axes, a first axis (e.g., x) and a second axis (e.g., y), which allows the device to specify positions in a plane. In some embodiments, the same directional information and command selection as cursor control may be achieved via receiving a touch on a touchscreen without a cursor.

The computer system 1400 may include a user interface module that implements a GUI, which may be stored in a mass storage device as executable software code executed by a computing device. This and other modules may include, by way of example, components, such as software components, object-oriented software components, class components and task components, processes, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuitry, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables.

Generally, the word "module" as used herein refers to logic embodied in hardware or firmware, or to a collection of software instructions written in a programming language such as Java, C, or C + +, that may have entry and exit points. The software modules may be compiled and linked into an executable program, installed in a dynamically linked library, or may be written in an interpreted programming language such as, for example, BASIC, Perl, or Python. It will be appreciated that software modules may be invoked from other modules or from themselves, and/or may be invoked in response to detected events or interrupts. Software modules configured for execution on a computing device may be provided on a computer readable medium such as a compact disk, digital video disk, flash memory drive, magnetic disk, or any other tangible medium, or downloaded as digital (and may be initially stored in a compressed or installable format requiring installation, decompression, or decryption prior to execution). Such software code may be stored, partially or wholly, on a memory device of an executing computing device for execution by the computing device. The software instructions may be embedded in firmware, such as an EPROM. It will also be appreciated that the hardware modules may include connected logic units such as gates and flip-flops, and/or may include programmable units such as a programmable gate array or processor 1404. The modules or computing device functions described herein are preferably implemented as software modules, but may be represented in hardware or firmware. In general, and the modules described refer to logical modules that may be combined with other modules or divided into sub-modules, regardless of their physical organization or storage.

Computer system 1400 can implement the techniques described herein using custom hardwired logic, one or more ASICs or FPGAs, firmware, and/or program logic that, in combination with computer system 1400, causes computer system 1400 or programs it as a special purpose machine. According to one embodiment, the techniques herein are performed by computer system 1400 in response to processor 1404 executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions contained in main memory 1406. Such instructions may be read into main memory 1406 from another storage medium, such as storage device 1410. Execution of the sequences of instructions contained in main memory 1406 causes processor 1404 to perform the process steps described herein. In alternative embodiments, hard-wired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions.

The term "non-transitory medium" and similar terms, as used herein, refers to any medium that stores data and/or instructions that cause a machine to operate in a specific manner. Such non-transitory media may include non-volatile media and/or volatile media. Non-volatile media includes, for example, optical or magnetic disks, such as storage device 1410. Volatile media includes dynamic memory, such as main memory 1406. Common forms of non-transitory media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, solid state drive, magnetic tape, or any other magnetic data storage medium, a CD-ROM, any other optical data storage medium, any physical medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a PROM, and EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, NVRAM, any other memory chip or cartridge, and network versions thereof.

The non-transitory medium is different from, but may be used in combination with, a transmission medium. Transmission media participate in the transfer of information between non-transitory media. For example, transmission media includes coaxial cables, copper wire and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise bus 1402. Transmission media can also take the form of acoustic or light waves, such as those generated during radio-wave and infrared data communications.

Various forms of media may be involved in carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions to processor 1404 for execution. For example, the instructions may initially be carried on a magnetic disk or solid state drive of a remote computer. The remote computer can load the instructions into its dynamic memory and send the instructions over a telephone line using the component controls. A component local to computer system 1400 can receive the data on the telephone line and use an infrared transmitter to convert the data to an infrared signal. An infra-red detector can receive the data carried in the infra-red signal and appropriate circuitry can place the data on bus 1402. The bus 1402 carries the data to main memory 1406, from which the processor 1404 retrieves and executes the instructions. The instructions received by main memory 1406 may optionally be stored on storage device 1410 either before or after execution by processor 1404.

The computer system 1400 may be connected to one or more sensors 1412 through a bus 1402. One or more sensors 1412 may measure various characteristics of the heat generating component 128, the coolant pump 120, the fluid cooler 126, and the coolant fluid flow path 110. In the exemplary embodiment, one or more sensors 1412 measure the temperature of heat generating component 128, coolant pump 120, fluid cooler 126, and the coolant in coolant fluid flow path 110. Measurements by the one or more sensors 1412 may be communicated to the main memory 1406 via the bus 1402. The computer system 1400 may transmit signals to the divert mechanism 1416 via the bus 1402. The diverter mechanism 1416 is a component of the cooling system 100 that controls the direction of circulation of the coolant in the coolant fluid flow path 110. Instructions from the computer system 1400 may be sent to the reversing mechanism 1416, which when executed, cause the reversing mechanism 1416 to change direction of the cycle. The computer system 1400 may determine the direction of circulation before sending a signal to the diverter mechanism 1416 based on the measurements communicated from the sensor 1412.

Computer system 1400 also includes a communication interface 1418 coupled to bus 1402. Communication interface 1418 provides a two-way data communication coupling to one or more network links that are connected to one or more local networks. For example, communication interface 1418 may be an Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) card, cable component control, satellite component control, or component control to provide a data communication connection to a corresponding type of telephone line. As another example, communication interface 1418 may be a Local Area Network (LAN) card to provide a data communication connection to a compatible LAN (or WAN component to communicate with a WAN). Wireless links may also be implemented. In any such implementation, communication interface 1418 sends and receives electrical, electromagnetic or optical signals that carry digital data streams representing various types of information.

Network links typically provide data communication through one or more networks to other data devices. For example, a network link may provide a connection through a local network to a host computer or to data equipment operated by an Internet Service Provider (ISP). The ISP in turn provides data communication services through the worldwide packet data communication network now commonly referred to as the "internet". Both the local network and the internet use electrical, electromagnetic or optical signals that carry digital data streams. The signals through the various networks and the signals on the network links and through communication interface 1418, which carry the digital data to and from computer system 1400, are exemplary forms of transmission media.

Computer system 1400 can send messages and receive data, including program code, through the network(s), network link(s) and communication interface 1418. In the Internet example, a server might transmit a requested code for an application program through the Internet, an ISP, local network and communication interface 1418.

The received code may be executed by processor 1404 as it is received, and/or stored in storage device 1410, or other non-volatile storage for later execution. Each of the processes, methods, and algorithms described in the preceding sections can be embodied in, and executed in whole or in part automatically by, code modules executed by one or more computer systems 1400 or computer processors 1404 including computer hardware. The processes and algorithms may be implemented in part or in whole in application specific circuitry.

The various features and processes described above may be used independently of one another or may be combined in various ways. All possible combinations and sub-combinations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, in some implementations, certain method or process blocks may be omitted. The methods and processes described herein are also not limited to any particular sequence, and the blocks or states associated therewith may be performed in other suitable sequences. For example, described blocks or states may be performed in an order different than that specifically disclosed, or multiple blocks or states may be combined in a single block or state. The example blocks or states may be performed in series, in parallel, or in some other manner. Blocks or states may be added to or removed from the disclosed example embodiments. The example systems and components described herein may be configured differently than described. For example, elements may be added to, removed from, or rearranged compared to the disclosed example embodiments.

Any process descriptions, elements, or blocks in flow charts described herein and/or depicted in the accompanying drawings should be understood as potentially representing modules, segments, or portions of code which include one or more executable instructions for implementing specific logical functions or steps in the process. Alternative embodiments are included within the scope of the embodiments described herein, in which elements or functions may be deleted, executed out of order from that shown or discussed, including substantially concurrently or in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved, as would be understood by those reasonably skilled in the art.

It should be emphasized that many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments, the elements of which are to be understood as being among other acceptable examples. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure. The foregoing description details certain embodiments of the invention. It should be understood, however, that no matter how detailed the foregoing appears in text, the invention can be practiced in many ways. As noted above, it should be noted that the use of particular terminology when describing certain features or aspects of the invention does not imply that the terminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to including any specific characteristics of the features or aspects of the invention with which that terminology is associated. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be construed in accordance with the appended claims and any equivalents thereof.

Various operations of the example methods described herein may be performed, at least in part, by one or more processors 1404 that are temporarily configured (e.g., by software) or permanently configured to perform the relevant operations. Similarly, the methodologies described herein may be at least partially processor-implemented, wherein one or more of the specific processors 1404 are examples of hardware. For example, at least some of the operations of the methods may be performed by one or more processors 1404. Further, the one or more processors 1404 may also support performance of related operations in a "cloud computing" environment or as a "software as a service" (SaaS). For example, at least some of the operations may be performed by a set of computers (as an example of a machine that includes the processor 1404), where the operations are accessible via a network (e.g., the internet) and via one or more appropriate interfaces (e.g., an Application Program Interface (API)).

Execution of certain operations may be distributed among the processors 1404, not only residing within a single machine, but also being deployed across multiple machines. In some example embodiments, the processor 1404 may be located in a single geographic location (e.g., within a home environment, an office environment, or a server farm). In other example embodiments, processor 1404 may be distributed across multiple geographic locations.

Language(s)

Throughout this specification, various examples may implement a component, an operation, or a structure described as a single example. Although individual operations of one or more methods are shown and described as separate operations, one or more of the individual operations may be performed concurrently and nothing requires that the operations be performed in the order illustrated. Structures and functionality presented as separate components in the exemplary configurations may be implemented as a combined structure or component. Similarly, structures and functionality presented as a single component may be implemented as separate components. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements fall within the scope of the subject matter herein.

Although the summary of the present subject matter has been described with reference to specific example embodiments, various modifications and changes may be made to the embodiments without departing from the broader scope of the embodiments of the disclosure. Such embodiments of the present subject matter may be referred to herein, individually or collectively, by the term "invention" merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any single disclosure or concept if more than one is in fact disclosed.

The embodiments illustrated herein are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosed teachings. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived therefrom, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The particular embodiments are therefore not to be considered in a limiting sense, and the scope of various embodiments is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full range of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

As used herein, the term "or" may be interpreted in an inclusive or exclusive sense. Furthermore, multiple instances of a resource, operation, or structure described herein as a single instance may be provided. In addition, the boundaries between the various resources, operations and data stores are somewhat arbitrary, and particular operations are illustrated in the context of specific illustrative configurations. Other allocations of functionality are envisioned and may fall within the scope of various embodiments of the disclosure. In general, structures and functionality presented as separate resources in the example configurations may be implemented as a combined structure or resource. Similarly, structures and functionality presented as a single resource may be implemented as separate resources. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements fall within the scope of the embodiments of the disclosure as expressed in the claims that follow. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

Conditional language such as "can," "may," "might," or "may" is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, but other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps, unless expressly stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether such features, elements, and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.

Although the invention has been described in detail for the purpose of illustration based on what is currently considered to be the most practical and preferred implementations, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the invention is not limited to the disclosed implementations, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that are within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it is to be understood that the present invention contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment.

Claims

1. A system, the system comprising:

one or more heat generating components in a vehicle;

a coolant flow path connected to the one or more heat-generating components;

a coolant pump configured to circulate coolant through the coolant flow path; and

a reversing mechanism configured to reverse a circulation direction of the coolant.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

one or more sensors for measuring one or more characteristics of the one or more heat-generating components; and

a controller configured to reverse the direction of circulation by the reversing mechanism based on measurements from the one or more sensors.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the controller is configured to periodically reverse the direction of circulation.

4. The system of claim 2:

wherein the reversing mechanism comprises one or more valves in the coolant flow path; and is

Wherein the one or more valves are configured to reverse the circulation direction.

5. The system of claim 2, wherein the reversing mechanism is included in the coolant pump.

6. The system of claim 4, further comprising:

a refrigeration mechanism located in the coolant flow path, the refrigeration mechanism configured to reduce a temperature of the coolant;

wherein the one or more sensors are configured to measure a temperature of the one or more heat-generating components; and is

Wherein the controller is configured to: reversing the direction of circulation to minimize a distance traveled by coolant in the coolant flow path between the refrigeration mechanism and a heat-generating component identified based on temperature measurements by the one or more sensors.

7. The system of claim 2:

wherein at least one of the one or more heat-generating components comprises an electronic processing unit; and is

Wherein the controller is configured to reverse the direction of circulation based on a throughput of the electronic processing unit.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the throughput is determined from one or more instructions queued for processing by the electronic processing unit.

9. A method, the method comprising:

cooling one or more heat generating components in a vehicle with a coolant circulated through a coolant flow path by a coolant pump; and

the circulation direction of the coolant is reversed by a reversing mechanism.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising:

measuring one or more characteristics of one or more heat-generating components; and

wherein the controller is configured to reverse the direction of circulation through the reversing mechanism based on measurements from one or more sensors.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to periodically reverse the direction of circulation.

12. The method of claim 10:

13. The method of claim 10, wherein the reversing mechanism is included in the coolant pump.

14. The method of claim 12, further comprising:

reducing a temperature of coolant in the coolant flow path by a refrigeration mechanism;

Wherein the controller is configured to: reversing the direction of circulation of the coolant to minimize a distance traveled by coolant between the refrigeration mechanism and the heat-generating component in the coolant flow path, the heat-generating component determined based on temperature measurements by the one or more sensors.

15. The method of claim 10:

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the throughput is determined from one or more instructions queued for processing by the electronic processing unit.

17. A system, the system comprising:

one or more electronic processing units in the vehicle;

a coolant flow path connected to the one or more electronic processing units;

a coolant pump configured to circulate coolant through the coolant flow path;

a reversing mechanism configured to reverse a circulation direction of the coolant;

one or more sensors for measuring one or more characteristics of the one or more electronic processing units; and

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the controller is configured to reverse the direction of circulation based on a processing load of the one or more electronic processing units.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the controller is configured to: periodically reversing the circulation direction for a period of time based on the processing load of the one or more electronic processing units.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the time period is further based on a measurement of a characteristic of the one or more electronic processing units.