Claims:We Claim:

1. A pressure regulation system (100) for a radiator (4), the system (100) comprising:
a pressure cap (3), connectable to an opening of the radiator (4), the pressure cap (3) is configured to regulate flow of coolant into and out from the radiator (4);
a tank (2), fluidly coupled to the pressure cap (3), wherein the pressure cap (3) is configured to allow passage of the coolant from the radiator (4) into the tank (2) when fluid pressure within the radiator (4) exceeds a predefined limit, and allow passage of the coolant from the tank (2) into the radiator (4) when the fluid pressure within the radiator (4) drops below the predefined limit; and
a pressure creation device (1) fluidly connected to the tank (2), wherein the pressure creation device (1) is configured to pressurize the coolant flowing from the tank (2) to the radiator (4).

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pressure cap (3) is defined with at least two channels, wherein one of the at least two channels is structured to supply the coolant from the radiator (4) to the tank (2), and other of the at least two channels is structured supply the coolant to the radiator (4) from the tank (2).

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pressure cap (3) includes a one-way pressure valve (8a, 8b) disposed in each of the at least two channels, to allow passage of the coolant into and out from the radiator (4).

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pressure creation device (1) is connectable upstream of the tank (2) to pressurize the coolant in the tank (2) and channelize towards the pressure cap (3).

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pressure creation device (1) is connectable between the tank (2) and the pressure cap (3).

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pressure creation device (1) is a compressible air bulb.

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a pressure gauge (5) coupled with the pressure creation device (1) to monitor the pressure exerted by the pressure creation device (1).

8. A method for regulating pressure of a radiator (4), the method comprising:
providing, a pressure cap (3) at an opening of the radiator (4), the pressure cap (3) is configured to regulate flow of a coolant into and out from the radiator (4);
wherein, when fluid pressure within the radiator (4) exceeds a predefined limit the pressure cap (3) channelize the coolant from the radiator (4) to a tank (2); and
operating, a pressure creation device (1) fluidly connected to the tank (2), the pressure creation device (1) is configured to pressurize the coolant from the tank (2) to the radiator (4) when the fluid pressure in the radiator (4) is less than the predefined limit.

9. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the pressure creation device (1) is connectable upstream of the tank (2) to pressurize and channelize the coolant in the tank (2) towards the pressure cap (3).

10. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the pressure creation device (1) is connectable inline between the tank (2) and the pressure cap (3) to pressurize the coolant in the tank (2) and channelize towards the pressure cap (3).
, Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
Present disclosure, in general, relates to the field of automobiles. Particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a cooling system. Further, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a system and a method for improving refilling of the cooling system, such as a radiator.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Generally, prime movers including, but not limited to, internal combustion engines [also referred to as IC engines] require cooling systems for efficient operation. The cooling systems are generally employed to assist such prime movers through operations such as, but not limited to, removing excess heat and maintain temperature within optimum working range. The cooling systems include hardware components for example, a radiator, a coolant tank, a plurality of hoses connecting the radiator and the coolant tank to the IC engine, where such hoses are may be routed inside and/or outside the IC engine for regulating heat dissipated therefrom. Furthermore, a cap is employed to cover an opening defined in the radiator and the cap is defined with valves to allow passage of the coolant from and into the radiator.

Typically, during operation of the prime movers, the coolant within the radiator absorbs heat and expands, whereby fluid pressure in the radiator increases due to such expansion of the coolant. With increase in fluid pressure, valve in the cap of the radiator may be operated to discharge a defined quantity of the coolant & or trapped air from the radiator in order to minimize the fluid pressure within such radiator. The coolant from the radiator may be discharged into the tank, where the coolant may be stored until the fluid pressure within the radiator may reduce to a defined limit. Further, as the prime mover is turned OFF or temperature of the coolant within the radiator reduces, the coolant contracts due to drop in temperature, and a vacuum may be produced within the radiator. The vacuum may draw the coolant from the tank, where fluid pressure of the coolant due to vacuum pressure within the radiator will operate the valve in the cap. With that, the coolant may be recirculated from the tank to the radiator. This return flow continues till the radiator is re-filled with the coolant to negate the vacuum therein.

The magnitude of replenishment/return of the coolant back into the radiator depends upon the time for which the valve in the cap remains open. The valve remains open as long as the coolant in the radiator in cooled state & vacuum is maintained. However, in situations where the IC engine is operated for extended periods of time and the OFF condition of the IC engine is only for a small period, the radiator may be subjected to insufficient replenishment and may result in incomplete filling of the radiator. The incomplete filling of the radiator may lead to overheating and failure of the IC engine.

The present disclosure is directed to overcome one or more limitations stated above or any other limitations associated with the conventional mechanisms.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

One or more shortcomings of the prior art are overcome by a system and a method as claimed and additional advantages are provided through the system and the method as claimed in the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure.

In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure a pressure regulation system for a radiator is disclosed. The system includes a pressure cap that is connectable to an opening of the radiator. The pressure cap is configured to regulate flow of a coolant into and out from the radiator. Further, a tank is fluidly coupled to the pressure cap which is configured to allow passage of the coolant from the radiator into the tank when a fluid pressure within the radiator exceeds a predefined limit. The pressure cap is also configured to allow passage of the coolant from the tank into the radiator when the fluid pressure within the radiator drops below the predefined limit. Furthermore, a pressure creation device is fluidly connected to the tank that is configurated to pressurize the coolant flowing from the tank to the radiator.

In an embodiment, the pressure cap is defined with at least two channels, where one of the at least two channels is structured to supply the coolant from the radiator to the tank, and other of the at least two channels is structured supply the coolant to the radiator from the tank.

In an embodiment, the pressure cap includes a one-way pressure valve disposed in each of the at least two channels, to allow passage of the coolant into and out from the radiator.

In an embodiment, the pressure creation device is connectable upstream of the tank to pressurize the coolant in the tank and channelize towards the pressure cap.

In an embodiment, the pressure creation device is connectable between the tank and the pressure cap.

In an embodiment, the pressure creation device is a compressible air bulb

In an embodiment, the system consists of a pressure gauge which is coupled with the pressure creation device to monitor the pressure exerted by the pressure creation device.

In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for regulating pressure of a radiator is disclosed. The method includes steps of providing, a pressure cap at an opening of the radiator, where the pressure cap is configured to regulate flow of a coolant into and out from the radiator. Further, when fluid pressure within the radiator exceeds a predefined limit the pressure cap channelizes the coolant from the radiator to a tank. Furthermore, a pressure creation device that is fluidly connected to the tank is operated. The pressure creation device is configured to pressurize the coolant from the tank to the radiator when the fluid pressure in the radiator is less than the predefined limit.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

The novel features and characteristic of the disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives, and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

Figure 1 illustrates a schematic view of a pressure regulation system for a radiator with a pressure creation device positioned upstream of a tank, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Figure 2 illustrates a schematic view of the pressure cap of Figure 1.

Figure 3 illustrates a schematic view of the pressure regulation system for the radiator with the pressure creation device positioned between the tank and the pressure cap, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the system and method illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The foregoing has broadly outlined the features and technical advantages of the present disclosure in order that the detailed description of the disclosure that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the disclosure. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that, the conception and specific embodiments disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying other systems, methods, processes, mechanisms, devices, and assemblies for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that, such equivalent constructions do not depart from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims. The novel features which are believed to be characteristics of the disclosure, to its system, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure.

The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusions, such that a mechanism, an assembly, or a device that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or device or method. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.

In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, a pressure regulation system for a radiator is disclosed. The system includes a pressure cap that is connectable to an opening of the radiator. The pressure cap is configured to regulate flow of a coolant into and out from the radiator. Further, a tank is fluidly coupled to the pressure cap which is configured to allow passage of the coolant from the radiator to the tank when a fluid pressure within the radiator exceeds a predefined limit. The pressure cap is also configured to allow passage of the coolant from the tank to the radiator when the fluid pressure within the radiator drops below the predefined limit. Furthermore, a pressure creation device is fluidly connected to the tank that is configurated to pressurize the coolant flowing from the tank to the radiator such that the radiator is filled with coolant within a short period of time.

Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts. The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure with reference to Figures 1 to 3.

A vehicle includes a prime mover such as, an IC engine, which operates by combustion of fuel. The combustion process in the IC engines will generate heat which when exceeds an operating temperature causes damage to internal components of such IC engine. To maintain temperature of the IC engine within an optimum range, a cooling system is be included in the vehicle, where such cooling system may be fluidly connected to the IC engine to dissipate heat being dissipated therefrom. The cooling system may be including, but not limited to, a radiator (4), which may be connected between a coolant tank (2) [hereafter referred to as tank (2)] and channels defined in the IC engine for regulating heat. is the coolant may be circulating through the channels of the IC engine to suitably absorb heat from engine and dissipate heat to the surroundings through the radiator. The radiator may include array of heat exchanging tubes/cores allowing the coolant flow, and one or more radiator fans to dissipate the heat transfer through convection.

Figure 1 is an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure which illustrates a pressure regulation system (100) for the radiator (4). The radiator (4) is defined with an opening to receive the coolant. The opening of the radiator (4) is covered and sealed by a pressure cap (3). The pressure cap (3) is fluidly connected to the tank (2) through the connecting line (7).

The pressure regulation system (100) [hereafter referred to as system (100)] includes a pressure creation device (1) fluidly connected to the tank (2). The pressure creation device (1) connected to the tank (2) is configured to pressurize the coolant flowing from the tank (2) to the radiator (4). Further, the pressure cap (3) may be connectable to the opening of the radiator (4) and is fluidly coupled to the tank (2) which is configured to hold the coolant. The pressure cap (3) may be defined with at least two channels and is configured to allow the passage of the coolant between the radiator (4) and the tank (2), based on variation in fluid pressure within the radiator (4) due to volumetric change of the coolant corresponding to heat being dissipated by the IC engine. For example, the pressure cap (3) is configured to allow passage of the coolant from the radiator (4) to the tank (2) when the fluid pressure within the radiator (4) increases above a predefined limit due to increase in temperature of the coolant within the radiator (4), in conjunction with increase in heat being dissipated from the IC engine. Further, the pressure cap (3) is configured to allow passage of the coolant from the tank (2) to the radiator (4) when the fluid pressure within the radiator (4) drops below a predefined limit due to reduction in temperature of the coolant within the radiator (40, in conjunction with reduction in heat being dissipated from the IC engine. One of the at least two channels is structured to supply the coolant from the radiator (4) to the tank (2), and other of the at least two channels is structured supply the coolant to the radiator (4) from the tank (2) such that the flow of the coolant into and out from the radiator (4) is regulated. Furthermore, the pressure cap (3) includes at least one one-way pressure valves (8a, 8b) disposed in each of the at least two channels. The at least one one-way pressure valves (8a, 8b) is configured actuate when the fluid pressure exerted on the at least one one-way pressure valves (8a, 8b) exceeds the predefined limit, to selectively allow the passage of the coolant into and out of the radiator (4) based on the pressure acting on the at least one one-way pressure valves (8a, 8b) [as seen in Figure 2].

Referring now to Figure 2, the at least one one-way pressure valves (8a, 8b) included in each of the at least two channels of the pressure cap (3) may be biased by a resilient member (9) operationally connected to the one-way pressure valves (8a, 8b). The one-way pressure valves (8a, 8b) includes at least two actuating valves, namely the first valve (8a) and the second valve (8b). The first valve (8a) may be disposed in one channel of the at least two channels which may form the passage for flow of the coolant from the radiator (4) to the tank (2). Whereas the second valve (8b) may be disposed in an other channel of the at least two channels in the pressure cap (3), which may form the passage for the coolant from the tank (2) to the radiator (4). In an embodiment, the first valve (8a) and the second valve (8b) may be alternatively operated to the actuated state and the de-actuated state for selective passage of the coolant between the radiator (4) and the tank (2). The resilient member (9) may be configured to bias the each of the first valve (8a) and the second valve (8b) to a de-actuated state when pressure exerted on the first valve (8a) and the second valve may be less than a predefined limit for restricting flow of the coolant into the radiator and the tank. The resilient member (9) is selected based on the amount of resilient force exerted by the resilient member (9) such that the first valve (8a) and the second valve (8b) selectively operate when the fluid pressure reaches the predefined limit. The predefined limit may be determined based on factors, including, but not limited to, operating parameters of the radiator (4), load acting on the IC engine, specific heat capacity of the coolant, material of the IC engine, rate of re-circulation of the coolant, and any other factor that tends to modify working period of the system (100). In an embodiment, one channel of the at least two channels which is structured to supply the coolant from the radiator (4) to the tank (2), where such channel includes the first valve (8a) which may be operated to an actuated state, when the fluid pressure within the radiator (4) exceeds the predefined limit. In an exemplary embodiment, the pressure required to operate the first valve (8a) may be in the range of 90 kPa. The first valve (8a) may remain in the actuated state for passage of the coolant from the radiator (4) to the tank (2) until pressure within the radiator (4) reduces below the predefined limit. Further, an other channel of the at least two channels is structured supply the coolant to the radiator (4) from the tank (2), where such channel includes the second valve (8b) to restrict flow of the coolant. In an embodiment, the coolant upon condensing within the radiator (4) develops a vacuum that is in the range of 4.9 kPa to actuate the second valve (8b). The second valve (8b) remains in the actuated state and allows passage of the coolant to the radiator (4) from the tank (2) until the vacuum pressure within the radiator (4) reduces below 4.9 kPa.

Referring back to Figure 1, the pressure creation device (1) is connectable upstream of the tank (2) away from the radiator (4) and is employed to channelize the coolant in the tank (2) to the pressure cap (3). Further, the pressure creation device (1) may be including, but not limited to, a compressible air bulb, a pressure accumulator, a pneumatic actuator, and any other component that may suitably induce pressure between the tank and the radiator for selectively channelizing the coolant there between. In the illustrative embodiment, the pressure creation device (1) may be a compressible air bulb, that may be operated by periodic compression to pressurize the coolant in the tank (2) and channelize to the radiator (4). The pressure creation device (1) may be connected to a top portion or any side walls of the tank (2) to selectively pressurize the coolant from within the tank. The coolant pressurized by the pressure creation device (1) is channelized through the connecting line (7) towards the pressure cap (3). The pressure exerted on the coolant by the pressure creation device (1) is greater than the predefined pressure required to actuate the one-way pressure valve (8b) to the actuated state which is configured to allow passage of the coolant to the radiator (4) from the tank (2). The pressure creation device (1) may be employed to pressurize the coolant in the tank (2) until the radiator (4) is completely filled with coolant.

The pressure creation device (1) may be a portable device configured to be connectable to the tank (2). Further, the pressure creation device (1) may be an integral part of the tank (2).

Further, in an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 3, the pressure creation device (1) in the pressure regulating system (100) may be positioned inline between the tank (2) and the pressure cap (3). The inline pressure creation device (1) may be connectable on the connecting line (7) between the tank (2) and the pressure cap (3). The inline pressure creation device (1) between the tank (2) and the pressure cap (3), when operated by periodic compression pressurizes the coolant in the connecting line (7) downstream of the inline pressure creation device (1) towards the radiator (4) and channelizes the coolant towards the pressure cap (3). The pressure exerted on the coolant in the connecting line (7) by the inline pressure creation device (1) is greater than the predefined pressure required to actuate the second valve (8b) to the actuated state which is configured to allow passage of the coolant to the radiator (4) from the tank (2). Further, in an exemplary embodiment, the connecting line (7) is defined with a pinch zone (6) located on the connecting line (7) upstream of the inline pressure creation device (1) when the coolant is channelized from the tank (4) towards the radiator (4). The pinch zone (6) is configured to block the passage of the coolant within the connecting line (7) when an operator squeezes the pinch zone (6), such that upon operation of the inline pressure creation device (1), the coolant in downstream of the inline pressure creation device (1) towards the radiator (4) is pressurized. In an embodiment, the pinch zone (6) may be located at any point between the tank (2) and the inline pressure creation device (1). Further, the connecting line (7) is made of flexible material such that the operator may squeeze the connecting line (7) at a desired location to block the passage of the coolant.

In an embodiment, the inline pressure creation device (1) may be an integral part of the connecting line (7). Further, the inline pressure creation device (1) may be a portable device that is configured to fit onto the connecting line (7). In an embodiment, the inline pressure creation device (1) may be formed as the connecting line (7) between the tank (2) and the pressure cap (3).

In an embodiment, the pressure creation device (1) may be operated manually by the operator by squeezing the pressure creation device (1) by hand or by a tool.

Further, the method for regulating pressure of the radiator (4) includes providing the pressure cap (3) at the opening of the radiator (4). The pressure cap (3) is configured to regulate the flow of the coolant out of the radiator (4) to the tank (2) when the fluid pressure within the radiator (4) exceeds the predefined pressure. Furthermore, the pressure cap (3) is configured to regulate the flow of the coolant into the radiator (4) from the tank (2) when the fluid pressure in the radiator (4) is less than the predefined pressure or a negative pressure is created within the radiator (4) which is greater than the predefined pressure. Additionally, the method includes operating the pressure creation device (1) which is fluidly connected to the tank (2) which to pressurize the coolant in the tank (2) and channelize the coolant towards the radiator (4) the fluid pressure in the radiator (4) is less than the predefined limit.

In an embodiment, the pressure creation device (1) in the compressible air bulb form may have a circular structure, cubical structure, crumpled structure, and the like, which may allow pressurizing of the coolant from the tank. The compressible air bulb may be made of polymers and other flexible materials that are capable of withstanding heat dissipated by the IC engine.

In an embodiment, the pressure within the tank (2) and the connecting line (7) is equal to atmospheric pressure.

In an embodiment, the pressure creation device (1) may be coupled to a pressure gauge (5). The pressure gauge (5) is configured to monitor the pressure exerted by the pressure creation device (1).

In an embodiment, air trapped in the radiator (4) is vented out to the atmosphere as the coolant is channelized from the radiator (4) to the tank (2).

In an embodiment, the resilient member (9) that is configured to operate the one-way pressure valve (8a, 8b) is one of but not limited to compression spring, expansion spring and torsion spring.

In an embodiment, the connecting line (7) may be made of polymers.

In an embodiment, the system (100) ensures that the radiator (4) is replenished/the coolant is returned back into the radiator (4).

In an embodiment, the pressure creation device (1) ensures that the radiator (4) is filled with coolant within a short period of time.

In an embodiment, the pressure regulation system (100) with the a pressure creation device (1) may be employed to refill the coolant back into the radiator.

In an embodiment, the system (100) prevents incomplete filling of the radiator (4) and eliminates any chances of overheating and failure of the IC engine.

In an embodiment, the system (100) is simple in construction and does not require any electrical components or circuits.

In an embodiment, the system (100) is cost effective and easy to manufacture. Further, the system (100) may be integrated to conventional and existing cooling systems.

In an embodiment, a skilled operator is not required to operate the system (100) and regulate pressure of a radiator (4).

Equivalents:
Embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.

The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within scope of the embodiments as described herein.

Throughout this specification the word “comprise”, or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers, or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers, or steps.

The use of the expression “at least” or “at least one” suggests the use of one or more elements or ingredients or quantities, as the use may be in the embodiment of the disclosure to achieve one or more of the desired objects or results.

Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like that has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the disclosure. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form a part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the disclosure as it existed anywhere before the priority date of this application.

The numerical values mentioned for the various physical parameters, dimensions or quantities are only approximations and it is envisaged that the values higher/lower than the numerical values assigned to the parameters, dimensions or quantities fall within the scope of the disclosure, unless there is a statement in the specification specific to the contrary.

While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the particular features of this disclosure, it will be appreciated that various modifications can be made, and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other modifications in the nature of the disclosure or the preferred embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.

Referral Numerals:

Reference Number Description
100 System
1 Pressure creation device
2 Tank
3 Pressure cap
4 Radiator
5 Pressure gauge
6 Pinch zone
7 Connecting line
8a, 8b Pressure valve
9 Resilient member