IMPROVEMENT OF INTERNAL COOLING FOR A ROBOT CONTROLLER CABINET
- Authors
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2024
- Source
- DiVA - Academic Archive On-line
- Keywords
- Language
- English
- License
- Green
- External links
Abstract
This thesis focuses on enhancing the internal cooling mechanisms of ABB’s Omnicore V400XT control cabinets, which are integral to robotic operations. The research aimsto mitigate thermal inefficiencies and eliminate hot spots by improving air distributionwithin the cabinets. SolidWorks flow simulations and experimental validationswere employed to assess various fan housing designs and air chamber configurations.Results indicate that the introduction of an elevated air chamber outlet significantlyimproves air distribution, ensuring higher air velocities across critical components.This modification also presents the challenge of air potentially exiting the chamberprematurely, thus reducing the cooling efficiency through convection and conduction.Experimental data corroborate that while the elevated air chamber outlet enhancesair distribution, the overall average temperature within the cabinet remains largelyunaffected by different fan designs. This suggests that the rotational force exerted bythe fan directs airflow towards the cabinet walls rather than the components, limitingthe cooling efficiency. Tools such as Simscape and 3D printing were utilised for prototypedevelopment and testing. These findings provide a cost-effective approach toimproving thermal management in robotic control cabinets, potentially setting a newstandard for industrial applications. This comprehensive approach aims to enhancethe efficiency and reliability of robotic control systems, contributing to the advancementof industrial automation.
