Air guide device of an air conditioning system of a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to an air guide device (16, 16', 16'') for an air conditioning system (1, 1'') of a motor vehicle. The air guide device (16, 16', 16'') has at least one closing element (16a, 16'a, 16''a) and at least one air mixing element (16b, 16'b, 16''b). The closing element (16a, 16'a, 16''a) and the air mixing element (16b, 16'b, 16''b) have a common axis of rotation (15, 15'') of the air guide device (16, 16', 16''). The closure element (16a, 16'a, 16''a) extends in the direction of the axis of rotation (15, 15'') over the entire depth of a cross-section to be closed of a flow channel of the air conditioning system (1, 1'') and is formed with retaining elements (20). The at least one closure element (16a, 16'a, 16''a) and the at least one air mixing element (16b, 16'b, 16''b) are rotatably mounted about the common axis of rotation (15, 15'') and are rigidly connected to each other.The air mixing element (16b, 16'b, 16''b), extending in the direction of the axis of rotation (15, 15''), is designed according to the invention with flow openings, such that, depending on the position of the air guide device (16, 16', 16''), a cross-section of at least one flow channel of the air conditioning system (1, 1'') can be changed. The invention further relates to an air conditioning system (1, 1'') for a motor vehicle, comprising a housing (2) with a mixing chamber (8, 8'') in which the air guide device (16, 16', 16'') is arranged.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an air guidance device for an air conditioning system of a motor vehicle. The air guidance device has at least one closing element, at least one air mixing element and a pivot axis.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to an air conditioning system for a motor vehicle comprising means for conveying, cooling and heating air as well as the air guidance device.

[0003] Due to the increasing number of technical components in motor vehicles, optimization of the overall construction volume is necessary to ensure the desired range of functions by accommodating these components. For this reason, large-volume air conditioning components, such as those found in stationary air conditioning systems in the form of mixing chambers, flow guides, and turbulence devices, are not feasible in motor vehicles due to the limited space available.

[0004] An additional requirement for a motor vehicle's air conditioning system, which conditions an incoming airflow, potentially splits it, and directs the individual airflows to different areas of the vehicle, is to supply various air outlets with airflows at different temperatures, depending on their location and function. The incoming airflow is passed through various heat exchangers, so that the air is cooled and dehumidified, and, if necessary, reheated, before being directed into the passenger compartment. For example, the air is blown into the footwell and into the passenger compartment through openings in the dashboard, and is also directed via outlets directly to the windshield to prevent fogging or defrosting.In air-side controlled air conditioning systems, the air mass flow supplied to the passenger compartment is divided into two partial air mass flows by means of a damper, also known as a temperature damper. The required temperatures of the air flows are set using the temperature dampers and various control mechanisms. One partial air mass flow is passed through and heated by a heat exchanger located in the lower part of the system. Simultaneously, the second partial air mass flow, cold air, flows past the heat exchanger. The two differently tempered partial air mass flows are then mixed to achieve the required target temperature.

[0005] In conventional air conditioning systems, the partial air mass flows are not optimally mixed. Different temperatures occur at the various air outlets into the passenger compartment when the temperature flap is in intermediate positions. These differing temperatures of the air mass flows at the various outlets, such as the footwell, dashboard, and windshield vents, are referred to as temperature stratification.

[0006] To reduce stratification between certain outlets, warm air ducts are provided, for example, to direct warm air to the outlet on the windshield. These additional elements impair airflow and acoustics and also cause higher costs.

[0007] Other known air conditioning systems feature a temperature damper in conjunction with an enlarged mixing zone, designed to direct the cold air mass flow towards the warm air mass flow and to guide the air mass flows through the enlarged mixing zone for sufficient mixing. The quality of the mixing is achieved through the size of the mixing zone. Alternatively or additionally, the air conditioning systems, particularly in the area of ​​the mixing zone, are equipped with guide vanes or baffles as constriction or throttling elements to generate turbulence within the air mass flow to be mixed. The additional vanes, which reduce the flow cross-section for the air mass flow, increase the flow velocity. This, in turn, increases the pressure drop.

[0008] It is also known from the prior art to design the air conditioning system such that the warm air mass flow and the cold air mass flow are directed towards each other for better mixing and subsequently blend. Other designs of conventional systems have baffles which, depending on requirements, block the different air mass flows at specific positions within the system, obstructing passage and thus preventing airflow. The guide plates, baffles, constriction elements, or throttling elements are, for example, integrated into the temperature damper itself.

[0009] Systems with more than two air flow paths, in which the air within the flow paths has different temperatures, are also known in the prior art.

[0010] EP 1 336 517 A1 discloses an air conditioning system with an evaporator arranged in an air duct and a heat exchanger arranged downstream in the direction of airflow. The air mass flow conditioned in the evaporator can then be divided into three different flow paths. One flow path, a warm air duct, directs the air through the heat exchanger, while the other two flow paths, cold air ducts or bypasses, guide the air around the heat exchanger. The different flow paths serve to prevent strong stratification and thus improve the temperature distribution in the air mass flow.

[0011] However, the air conditioning system, with its sliding and / or rotating flaps and associated drive technology, features a very complex design for controlling the air mass flow through and around the heat exchanger. Furthermore, the air conditioning system incorporates numerous mixing chambers and requires a large installation space.

[0012] Alternatives to the design of air conditioning systems with a large number of sliding and / or rotary flaps and the respective associated drive technology are known from the state of the art.

[0013] German patent DE 196 03 126 A1 discloses a motor vehicle air conditioning system for the selective opening of at least three outlets. The air conditioning system comprises a housing, a rotary shaft rotatably mounted within the housing, and an arc-shaped rotary valve connected to the rotary shaft. The rotary valve has several openings and a drive mechanism for rotating the shaft. The housing is designed with several channels leading to the outlets, the inlet openings of which are arranged along the circumferential surface of the rotary valve. The rotary valve closes and / or opens the inlet openings of the channels, thus distributing the airflow at a uniform temperature from a mixing chamber to several channels.

[0014] The systems known in the prior art are characterized by the fact that they either require additional, complex components that take up extra space, incur additional costs, and also require extra installation and maintenance. Furthermore, these additional components restrict and constrict the flow channels, causing increased pressure losses in the airflow. This, in turn, leads to increased power requirements and thus energy consumption, as well as a reduction in the efficiency of the air conditioning system and consequently of the entire vehicle.

[0015] Furthermore, the flap geometries known from the prior art result not only in significant flow losses but also in strong flow noise. Vibrations can be generated by flap oscillation.

[0016] The object of the present invention is to provide a climate control system that, depending on requirements, offers both optimal mixing with minimal temperature stratification of the air mass flow and requires minimal effort for temperature control. In particular, an air mass flow in one of the main flow directions, where no or only minimal mixing of the air mass flows is required, should not be affected or only minimally affected, while simultaneously a channel of a second air mass flow should be at least partially closed. The air should be directed precisely, and both the number of components required and their installation space requirements should be minimized. The costs incurred for manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance should be minimal.

[0017] The problem is solved by an air guidance device according to the invention for an air conditioning system of a motor vehicle. The air guidance device has at least one closing element and at least one air mixing element. The closing element and the air mixing element have a common axis of rotation of the air guidance device. The closing element extends in the direction of the axis of rotation over the entire depth of a cross-section of a flow channel of the air conditioning system to be closed and is designed with retaining elements.

[0018] According to the invention, the at least one closure element and the at least one air mixing element are mounted so as to be rotatable about the common axis of rotation and are rigidly connected to each other. The air mixing element, which extends in the direction of the axis of rotation, is designed with flow openings according to the invention, so that, depending on the position of the air guide device, the cross-section of at least one flow channel of the air conditioning system can be changed, in particular reduced.

[0019] The air conditioning system advantageously has, for example, at least one cold air path and at least one warm air path as flow channels, wherein the cross-section of at least one of the flow channels warm air path and / or cold air path can be changed depending on the position of the air guidance device.

[0020] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the air guidance device comprises a plurality of air mixing elements. The air mixing elements are arranged at intervals along the axis of rotation such that a free space is formed between each air mixing element, serving as a flow opening for an air mass flow. A plurality of air mixing elements is understood to mean a number of more than one air mixing element, i.e., a number of two or more air mixing elements.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the invention, the closure element and the air mixing element, or the closure element and the air mixing elements, are arranged offset from each other by an angle around the common axis of rotation of the air guide device. In a plurality of configured air mixing elements, these are advantageously aligned in a common direction and have the same lengths in the direction of the axis of rotation.

[0022] An advantage is that the air guidance device has a shaft with a longitudinal axis, wherein the longitudinal axis of the shaft corresponds to the axis of rotation of the air guidance device.

[0023] According to a first alternative embodiment of the invention, the at least one air mixing element or the air mixing elements are arranged on the shaft.

[0024] The air mixing element advantageously has a convex frontal area with respect to the axis of rotation of the air guide device. Due to the arrangement of the air mixing element in the direction of airflow in front of the axis of rotation, the frontal area for the incoming air mass flow is concave. The frontal area of ​​the air mixing element also preferably has flow profiles or flow openings.

[0025] It is advantageous to provide the area of ​​the air mixing element forming the flow surface with retaining elements arranged perpendicular to the axis of rotation at the ends oriented towards the axis of rotation. These retaining elements are rigidly connected to the area of ​​the air mixing element forming the flow surface and also rigidly connected to the shaft.

[0026] According to a second alternative embodiment of the invention, the at least one air mixing element(s) are each formed with a straight plane and four side edges, one of which is arranged as an end face directly on the shaft. The air mixing element is rigidly connected to the shaft.

[0027] Alternatively, the air mixing element can also be arranged on the retaining elements of the closure element. In this case, the air mixing element is rigidly connected to the retaining elements of the closure element.

[0028] According to a further development of the invention, the air mixing element is formed with a wall element on an end face facing away from the shaft. The wall element advantageously has a length corresponding to the width of the air mixing element. The wall element is preferably arranged perpendicular to the air mixing element. As an alternative to forming the wall elements on the end face of the air mixing element, the wall elements can also be arranged on the housing. The wall elements are advantageously spaced apart from one another in the direction of the axis of rotation of the air guide device such that the cross-section of the flow channel of the air conditioning system is reduced.

[0029] The air mixing elements formed with a flat plane are preferably aligned parallel to each other. Alternatively, the air mixing elements formed with a flat plane can also be arranged relative to each other in such a way that a convex flow surface is created with respect to the axis of rotation of the air guide device.

[0030] The problem is further solved by an air conditioning system for a motor vehicle according to the invention. The air conditioning system comprises means for conveying and conditioning, in particular for cooling, heating and dehumidifying, air and has a housing with air outlets and two flow paths. The flow paths open into a common mixing chamber.

[0031] An air mass flow guided through the first flow path, representing a portion of the total air mass flow conveyed by the air conditioning system, has a first temperature, while a portion guided through the second flow path has a second temperature. The air mass flows can be directed to the air outlets via the flow paths and the mixing chamber.

[0032] According to the concept of the invention, an air guidance device as described above is arranged within the mixing chamber.

[0033] According to a first alternative embodiment of the invention, the axis of rotation of the air guidance device and the air mixing elements are arranged at the edge or outside of an air mass flow guided through the mixing chamber.

[0034] According to a second alternative embodiment of the invention, the axis of rotation of the air guide device and the air mixing elements are arranged either inside or outside an air mass flow guided through the mixing chamber, depending on the position of the air guide device. When the air guide device is in the position where the air mixing elements are arranged inside the air mass flow, they are aligned parallel to the direction of the air mass flow.

[0035] When the air mixing elements are arranged at the edge, outside or inside an air mass flow directed through the mixing chamber as the main air mass flow, the air resistance for the main air mass flow is minimal and negligible.

[0036] The air circulator is preferably a fan, the air cooling device is an evaporator of a refrigerant circuit, and the air heating device is a heat exchanger. The fan, evaporator, and heat exchanger are arranged within the housing.

[0037] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the heat exchanger is arranged within one of the two flow paths and fills the cross-section of the flow path. The contact surfaces between the heat exchanger and the wall of the flow path are technically sealed, so that the partial air mass flow guided through the flow path is completely directed over the heat exchanger surfaces of the heat exchanger. The other of the two flow paths is preferably designed as a bypass around the heat exchanger. Consequently, the air mass flow guided through the bypass does not come into contact with the heat exchanger surfaces of the heat exchanger.

[0038] The solution according to the invention comprises an air guidance device with air mixing elements for guiding and directing, or at least partially blocking, cold or warm air mass flows within the air conditioning system, with the aim of optimally mixing the air mass flows. The air mixing elements serve to generate turbulence in the area of ​​the mixing chamber and to cause the air mass flows to collide directly or head-on. The air mixing elements are designed, for example, as guide plates, baffles, constriction elements, integrated flow channels, or throttling elements, or as combinations thereof, in varying numbers and arrangements.

[0039] The air guide devices are preferably arranged as cross-sectional constrictions of a flow channel or as air guide plates, space-savingly positioned on an air flap of an air outlet, such that the airflows are not affected or only very slightly affected during operation in the mainly used modes, i.e., in the directions of the main air mass flows. The air resistance generated by the air guide device is negligible. Consequently, the additional power required by the fan is not affected or only slightly affected.

[0040] The main operating modes include "cold air at dashboard air outlet", "warm air at windshield air outlet" and "warm air at footwell air outlet".

[0041] The air mixing element of the air guidance device according to the invention is arranged outside or parallel to the cold air mass flow from the cold air path in the operating mode "cold air at the dashboard air outlet" and outside or parallel to the warm air mass flow from the warm air path in the operating modes "warm air at the windshield air outlet" or "warm air at the footwell air outlet". When switching between operating modes, the air guidance device, and thus the closing element and the air mixing element, are changed in their alignment or orientation.

[0042] By means of the common axis of rotation of the air mixing element and the closing element, the mode of action of the air guidance device on the warm air path and the cold air path can be advantageously varied depending on the air outlet operating mode.

[0043] The solution according to the invention has several other advantages: – Setting the temperature of the air mass flow using a single air guide device with minimal effort for temperature control and without additional components and installations, such as warm air ducts, – Reduction of components and thus, in addition to lower material and manufacturing costs, also minimization of maintenance and repair costs, – Reduction of installation space by minimizing the number of components, – Increased efficiency of the air conditioning system, as the components that reduce the cross-section of the flow paths are specifically arranged within the flow paths, as well as – Reduction of temperature stratification through optimal mixing of the air mass flow and thus maximum comfort for the occupants of the passenger compartment.

[0044] Further details, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show:

[0045] Fig. 1: State-of-the-art air conditioning system with an air damper;

[0046] Fig. 2: Air conditioning system with an air guidance device with an air mixing element in the operating mode “cold air at dashboard air outlet” in the position of air mass flow from cold air path in main flow direction and mixing in the air mass flow from warm air path;

[0047] Fig. 3: Air conditioning system with an air guidance device with air mixing element in operating mode “warm air at air outlet windshield” in position air mass flow from warm air path in main flow direction and mixing in the air mass flow from cold air path;

[0048] Fig. 4: Air conditioning system with an air guide device and an additional wall element as part of the housing;

[0049] Fig. 5a to Fig. 5c: Air guidance device in side view and perspective view with closure element and elements for air mixing;

[0050] Fig. 6: Alternative embodiment of an air guidance device in perspective view with closure element and elements for air mixing;

[0051] Fig. 7: Mixing chamber and air outlets of an air conditioning system with an air guidance device with air mixing elements in the operating mode “cold air at dashboard air outlet” in the position of air mass flow from cold air path in main flow direction and mixing in the air mass flow from warm air path;

[0052] Fig. 8: Mixing chamber and air outlets of an air conditioning system with an air guide device with air mixing elements in the operating mode "warm air at windshield air outlet" in the position of air mass flow from warm air path in the main flow direction and mixing in the air mass flow from cold air path, as well as

[0053] Fig. 9: Air guidance device in perspective view with closure element and elements for air mixing.

[0054] Fig. Figure 1 shows an air conditioning system 1 with an air flap 12 State of the art. The air conditioning system 1 features a fan (not shown) for drawing in and conveying air in the direction of flow 13 through the air conditioning system 1 , an evaporator 4 and a heat exchanger 5 on, which are in a housing 2 are arranged. The housing 2 includes three air outlets 3a ,3b , 3c and a mixing chamber 8 .

[0055] The air drawn in by the fan and flowing in the direction of the airflow 13 to the evaporator 4 The supplied air mass flow is completely distributed over the heat exchanger surfaces of the evaporator. 4 directed and then proportionally divided into two flow paths 6 , 7 divided. The first flow path 6 , also known as a cold air pathway 6 designated, leads to the in the evaporator 4 Cooled and / or dehumidified air as a partial air mass flow around the heat exchanger 5 around. The first flow path is... 6 in the vertical direction y of the air conditioning system 1 above the heat exchanger 4 arranged within the second flow path 7 is arranged. The one through the second flow path 7The guided partial air mass flow is completely distributed over the heat exchanger surfaces of the heating heat exchanger. 5 guided and heated. The flow path 7 It is therefore also known as a warm air path 7 designated.

[0056] The flow paths 6 , 7 each leads into the mixing chamber 8 . The ones on the flow paths 6 , 7 The divided partial air mass flows are mixed in the mixing chamber. 8 The air is then recombined and mixed before being released through the individual air outlets, now conditioned. 3a , 3b , 3c is supplied to the passenger compartment.

[0057] The one via the evaporator 4 The guided air mass flow is controlled by means of the temperature flap. 9 , which in this case is designed as a sliding element, into the partial air mass flows onto the flow paths 6 , 7 divided. By means of the position of the temperature flap.9 are the partial air mass flows through the flow paths 6 , 7 , that is, the proportions of the total through the air conditioning system 1 guided air mass flow, and thus the temperature at the air outlets 3a , 3b , 3c , controllable.

[0058] The air outlet 3a to the windshield and the air outlet 3b Air flaps can be used to access the footwell. 10 , 11 be closed or opened. After Fig. 1 are the air flaps 10 , 11 such that the air outlet 3a is open towards the windshield, while the air outlet 3b The footwell is closed off.

[0059] The air flap 12 to open and close the air outlet 3c The dashboard is arranged in such a way that the air outlet 3c is open while the air outlet 3aThe air outlet is sealed off towards the windshield. 3c is also referred to as occupant or driver airflow, because it is directed through the air outlet 3c guided air mass flow that can flow directly towards the occupants.

[0060] The air flap has a circular arc shape in cross-section, which is formed by the plane spanned in the horizontal direction x and in the vertical direction y. 12 is about an axis of rotation 15 rotatably mounted and extends in the depth direction.

[0061] At the in Fig. 1. Arrangement shown with open temperature flap 9 The air mass flow is directed onto the flow paths. 6 , 7 split up. The one through the cold air path 6 guided first partial air mass flow and the one in the direction of flow 14 through the warm air path 7 The guided second partial air mass flow is processed in the mixing chamber. 8 mixed and through the air outlet3c directed into the passenger compartment.

[0062] In Fig. 2 is an air conditioning system 1 with an air guidance system 16 with an air mixing element 16b shown in the operating mode "cold air at dashboard air outlet" in a position in which the cold air path 6 guided air mass flow with mixing in the air mass flow from the warm air path 7 in the main flow direction, that is, flow direction 17 , to the air outlet 3c the dashboard. The air outlet 3a The windshield is protected by the air guide system. 16 and the air outlet 3b The air flap provides access to the footwell. 11 sealed. The air mixing element 16b It serves to narrow the cross-section of the flow channel.

[0063] The air guidance system 16 features a locking element 16aas well as air mixing elements 16b on, which around a common axis of rotation 15 are arranged in holders. The locking element 16a and the air mixing elements 16b are rigidly connected to each other. The air mixing elements 16b are arranged as flow resistances within the air mass flow, so that they are also referred to as air resistance elements. 16b be designated.

[0064] The circular arc-shaped locking element in cross-section, which results from the plane spanned in the horizontal direction x and in the vertical direction y 16a as well as aerodynamic elements 16b each extend in the depth direction z, whereby the closure element 16a extends over the entire depth of the flow channel to be closed and the air resistance elements 16bThey are arranged at such a distance from each other that the cross-section of each channel is merely narrowed. With respect to the axis of rotation 15 are the locking element 16a concave and the aerodynamic elements 16b convex shape. The specification of the concave or convex shape of the locking element. 16a and the aerodynamic elements 16b refer to the respective inflow surfaces. From the direction of airflow. 13 , 17 , 18 through the mixing chamber 8 When considering the air resistance elements, 16b in front of the axis of rotation 15 and the locking element 16a after the axis of rotation 15 arranged so that the inflow surfaces are oriented away from the direction of airflow. 13 , 17 , 18 each is concave.

[0065] While the locking element 16a according to the order Fig. 2 thus direct the flow channel towards the air outlet 3a When completely sealed, the air resistance elements reduce 16b the flow cross-section of the warm air path 7 , so that in the direction of flow 18 through the warm air path 7 Air mass flow upon entry into the mixing chamber 8 swirling and thus optimally combined with the cold air path 6 The flowing air mass flow is mixed. In the direction of flow. 17 No flow obstruction in the form of air guide elements is present for the cold air. The axis of rotation 15 the air guidance system 16 is at the edge of the main airflow shown with dashed lines from the cold air path 6 to the air outlet 3c It is arranged and does not affect the airflow or only in a negligible way.

[0066] In the Fig. 2 shown position of the air guide device16 with the air outlet open 3c The air mixing elements are located on the dashboard. 16b outside the cold air path 6 in the transition area from the warm air path 7 to the mixing chamber 8 arranged.

[0067] According to an alternative arrangement, not shown, the temperature flap 9 in the vertical direction y below, the warm air path 7 arranged in a closing manner, so that the entire area passing through the housing 2 The conveyed air mass flow passes through the cold air path essentially without flow resistance. 6 to the air outlet 3c This arrangement corresponds to the primary operating mode for rapidly cooling the passenger compartment. A high flow rate of cold air is achieved through the most unobstructed cold air path possible. 6 aspired to.

[0068] Fig. Figure 3 shows the air conditioning system 1 after Fig. 2 with the air guidance system 16 with an air mixing element 16b in operating mode “warm air at windshield air outlet” in a position in which the warm air path 7 guided air mass flow with mixing in the air mass flow from the cold air path 6 in the main flow direction towards the air outlet 3a is guided along the windshield. The air is drawn through the air outlet. 3a Directed air is used, for example, to defrost an iced-up windshield or to dry a fogged-up windshield. The air outlet 3c The dashboard is accessed through the locking element 16a the air guidance system 16 and the air outlet 3b The air flap provides access to the footwell. 11 sealed. The air mixing element 16b It serves to narrow the cross-section of the flow channel.

[0069] While the locking element 16athe flow channel in the direction of the air outlet 3c When completely sealed, the air resistance elements reduce 16b the flow cross-section of the cold air path 6 , so that in the direction of flow 17 through the cold air path 6 Air mass flow upon entry into the mixing chamber 8 swirled and thus optimally combined with the warm air path 7 The flowing air mass flow is mixed. The axis of rotation 15 the air guidance system 16 is again located near the edge of the main airflow from the warm air path, which is represented by dashed lines. 7 to the air outlet 3a It is arranged and thus only affects the airflow in a negligible way.

[0070] In the Fig. 3 shown position of the air guide device 16 with closed air outlet 3c The air mixing elements are located on the dashboard. 16boutside the warm air path 7 in the transition zone from the cold air path 6 to the mixing chamber 8 arranged.

[0071] In a first alternative arrangement, not shown, the warm air path 7 guided air mass flow with mixing in the air mass flow from the cold air path 6 in the main flow direction towards the air outlet 3b the footwell. The air flap 11 is open. The air outlet 3a The air flap leads to the windshield. 10 and the air outlet 3c The dashboard is accessed through the locking element 16a the air guidance system 16 sealed.

[0072] According to a second alternative arrangement, not shown, both air flaps 10 , 11 opened, so that the one from the mixing chamber 8 Proportion of the outgoing air mass flow through the air outlet 3ato the windshield and through the air outlet 3b is directed to the footwell.

[0073] Regardless of the specified arrangements, the temperature damper 9 in the vertical direction y, for example the cold air path 7 be arranged in a closing manner so that the entire contents are enclosed in the housing 2 drawn-in air mass flow through the warm air path 7 The described arrangements represent the main operating modes for rapid vehicle heating. A high warm air delivery rate is the goal, with a free warm air flow path. 18 which is advantageous.

[0074] In Fig. 4 is the air conditioning system 1 with an air guidance system 16 and in comparison to the embodiment according to Fig. 3 with additional wall elements 19 as parts of the housing 2 depicted.

[0075] The additional wall elements 19serve to improve the mixing of the air passing through the warm air path 7 and the cold air path 6 guided air mass flows, especially in the operating modes of the air conditioning system 1 with several open air outlets 3a , 3b , 3c , such as dashboard and footwell Fig. 4 or windshield and dashboard, that is, with the air flap also open 10 and closed air flap 11 , or dashboard and footwell and windshield, that is, with additionally opened air flaps 10 , 11 The wall elements 19 are arranged in the depth direction z such that the cross-section of the cold air path 6 is narrowed, and designed in such a way that the air resistance elements 16b in the arrangement according Fig. 4 concerns.

[0076] Unlike the air conditioning system 1 after Fig. The air resistance elements are located at point 3. 15b on the one hand, the additional wall elements 19 on. As a result of the changed end position of the air guide device 16 do the air resistance elements protrude? 16b on the other hand, into the warm air path 7 inside and the locking element 16a closes the air outlet 3c The dashboard is not fully accessible.

[0077] The Fig. 5a to Fig. 5c shows the air guidance system 16 in side view and perspective views with the locking element 16a and the aerodynamic elements 16b as elements for intensifying air mixing. The sealing element 16a and the aerodynamic elements 16b are around a common axis of rotation 15 , rigidly arranged at an angle α to each other. The air resistance elements 16b are in the direction of the axis of rotation 15Arranged in a line with each other.

[0078] The locking element designed as a hinged flap 16a is designed as a partial area of ​​a wall of a hollow circular cylinder, which is a suitable closed surface around the axis of rotation 15 It is arranged to rotate. The geometry of the locking element 16a This depends on the shape of the air outlet to be sealed.

[0079] In this section of the wall of the hollow circular cylinder, the opposite edges run straight, parallel to each other and are at the same distance, i.e., with the same radius, from the axis of rotation. 15 arranged at intervals. The locking element 16a is in the depth direction z as a closed surface and in relation to the axis of rotation 15 concave curved shape.

[0080] The hollow cylindrical locking element 16a is located in the direction of the axis of rotation 15aligned ends with circular segment-shaped retaining elements 20 formed which are perpendicular to the axis of rotation 15 are arranged. The retaining elements 20 have a central angle that corresponds to the angular range of the hollow cylindrical wall of the locking element. 16a corresponds to the height of the circular segment-shaped retaining elements. 20 is equal to the radius of the locking element 16a opened circular arc. The retaining elements 20 are at the height of the axis of rotation 15 via a direction of the axis of rotation 15 aligned wave 22 connected to each other. The locking element 16a is therefore via the holding elements 20 to the wave 22 coupled.

[0081] The one in relation to the axis of rotation 15 convex and in relation to the flow direction 13 , 17 , 18 concave curved air resistance elements16b are spaced apart from each other in the depth direction z, so that there is space between the air resistance elements 16b Free spaces are formed. The air resistance elements 16b point in the direction of the axis of rotation 15 or the same length in the depth direction z. The air resistance elements 16b The defined angular ranges of the walls facing the respective air mass flow are of equal size and may be provided with additional profiles or openings to deflect or allow the air mass flow to pass through.

[0082] According to an alternative embodiment not shown, the air resistance elements can 16b for example, they may differ in length, defined angle range and / or profiles or openings.

[0083] The aerodynamic elements 16b are located in the direction of the axis of rotation 15aligned ends with retaining elements 21 formed which are perpendicular to the axis of rotation 15 are arranged. The retaining elements 21 are rigid with the wave 22 tied together.

[0084] The wave 22 points to the ends, that is, in the area of ​​the retaining elements 20 of the locking element 16a each bearing element 23 up. The bearing elements 23 are designed as cylindrical pins. The axis of rotation 15 and the axes of the bearing elements 23 are identical.

[0085] During the flow through the air guide device 16 In the main flow directions, only the shaft shaped like a cylindrical rod is allowed to pass through the air mass flow. 22 as well as the narrow sides of the retaining elements 21 the air resistance elements 16b contrasted, whereby the pressure loss during the flow around the shaft 22 and the retaining elements21 minimal.

[0086] Alternatively, a more stable design of the retaining elements can be used. 20 and the locking element 16a the formation of the wave 22 replace. The aerodynamic drag elements 16b and the bearing elements 23 are attached to the holding elements 20 of the locking element 16a arranged.

[0087] In Fig. 6 is an alternative embodiment of an air guidance device 16’ in perspective view with a locking element 16’a and air mixing elements 16’b The air mixing elements are shown. 16’b are, as in the embodiment according to the Fig. 5a to Fig. 5c, as air resistance elements 16’b trained.

[0088] Unlike the air guidance system 16 from the Fig. 5a to Fig. 5c are the air resistance elements 16’bdesigned with a straight plane and four side edges without additional retaining elements. The aerodynamic elements 16’b are each with one end face directly against the shaft 22 arranged, but in their entirety they point in relation to the axis of rotation 15 or in cross-section in the plane spanned by the horizontal direction x and the vertical direction y, they also have a convex shape and are spaced apart from each other in the depth direction z, so that between the air resistance elements 16’b Free spaces are formed. The air resistance elements 16’b They exhibit the same length in the depth direction z. The air resistance elements 16’b The defined angular ranges of the walls facing the respective airflow are of equal size. According to an alternative embodiment (not shown), the air resistance elements can be 16’bfor example, they may differ in length and / or the defined angle range.

[0089] The air resistance elements are essentially oriented in the vertical direction y 16’b are at the wave 22 far end face with wall elements 24 trained. The wall elements 24 have a length which corresponds to the width of the air resistance elements 16’b corresponds and are perpendicular to the air resistance elements. 16’b , essentially pointing in the direction x.

[0090] With the use of air guidance systems 16’ after Fig. 6. The embodiment according to Fig. 4 on the case 2 arranged wall elements 19 omitted.

[0091] In the Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 each become a mixing chamber 8’’ and air outlets 3a’’ , 3c’’ an air conditioning system 1’’with an air guidance system 16’’ with air mixing elements 16’’b shown. The axis of rotation 15’’ the air guidance system 16’’ is, compared to the embodiment according to the Fig. 2 to Fig. 4, centrally located within the cold air path 6’’ , and not at the edge of the cold air path 6’’ , arranged. The air mixing elements 16’’b are, as in Fig. 7 shown, aligned parallel to the air mass flow in the main flow direction.

[0092] According to Fig. 7 is the air guidance device 16’’ In operating mode “cold air at dashboard air outlet”, it is aligned in such a way that the air mass flow from the cold air path 6’’ in the direction of flow 17’’ by mixing in the air mass flow from the warm air path 7’’ to the air outlet 3c’’ of the dashboard through the housing 2’’ flows. In Fig. 8 is the air guidance device 16’’In operating mode “warm air at windshield air outlet”, it is aligned in such a way that the air mass flow from the warm air path 7’’ in the direction of flow 18’’ by mixing in the air mass flow from the cold air path 6’’ to the air vents 3a’’’ is directed to the windshield.

[0093] In the position of the air guidance device 16’’ after Fig. 7 is the air outlet 3a’’ to the windshield through the air guide system 16’’ , in particular through the locking element 16’’a , closed. The air outlet 3c’’ The dashboard is open.

[0094] In addition to the locking element 16’’a indicates the air guidance system 16’’ Air mixing elements 16’’b on, which around a common axis of rotation 15’’ are arranged in holders. The locking element 16’’a and the air mixing elements 16’’bare rigidly connected to each other. The air mixing elements 16’’b are arranged as guide elements or air guide plates within the air mass flow, so that they are also referred to as air guide elements. 16’’b be designated.

[0095] The circular arc-shaped locking element in cross-section, which results from the plane spanned in the horizontal direction x and in the vertical direction y 16’’a as well as air guide elements 16’’b each extend in the depth direction z, whereby the closure element 16’’a and one of the air guide elements 16’’b extend over the entire depth of the respective flow channel and include other air guidance elements 16’’b They are arranged at such a distance from each other that the cross-section of each channel is merely narrowed. With respect to the axis of rotation 15‘‘ is the locking element 16’’aIt is concave in shape and thus corresponds to the embodiments described above.

[0096] While the locking element 16’’a according to the order Fig. 7 the flow channel in the direction of the air outlet 3a’’ The air guide elements are completely sealed. 16’’b in the direction of flow 17’’ of the cold air path 6’’ aligned so that it is in the direction of flow 17’’ through the cold air path 6’’ The flowing air mass flow remains almost unaffected by the mixing chamber. 8’’ to the air outlet 3c’’ flows. In the direction of flow 17’’ The cold air is, except for the area in the direction of the axis of rotation, 15’’ aligned, not shown shaft of the air guide device 16’’ Almost no flow obstruction is formed. The axis of rotation 15’’ is within the main airflow shown with dashed lines from the cold air path 6’’ to the air outlet3c’’ , preferably centrally located. The flow resistance, especially in the operating mode where unmixed cold air passes through the air outlet. 3c’’ The signal that is routed to the dashboard is minimal.

[0097] In the Fig. 7 shown position of the air guide device 16’’ with the air outlet open 3c’’ The air mixing elements are located on the dashboard. 16’’b parallel to the direction of flow 17’’ the air through the cold air path 6’’ aligned.

[0098] The warm air path 7’’ The flowing air mass flow can be affected by the cold air path. 6’’ flowing air mass flow in the mixing chamber 8’’ be added.

[0099] In the position of the air guidance device 16’’ after Fig. 8 is the air outlet 3c’’ to the dashboard through the air guide system 16’’, in particular through the locking element 16’’a , closed. The air outlet 3a’’ The windshield is open.

[0100] While the locking element 16’’a the flow channel in the direction of the air outlet 3c’’ When completely sealed, the air guide elements reduce 16’’b the flow cross-section of the cold air path 6’’ , so that in the direction of flow 17’’ through the cold air path 6’’ Air mass flow upon entry into the mixing chamber 8’’ swirled and thus optimally combined with the warm air path 7’’ The flowing air mass flow can be mixed. Both the axis of rotation 15’’ the air guidance system 16’’ as well as the air guide elements 16’’b are located outside the main airflow shown with dashed lines, following the warm air path. 7’’ to the air outlet 3a’’arranged and influence the airflow in the direction of flow 18’’ not at all or only to a negligible extent, which applies in particular to the operating mode in which unmixed warm air is drawn through the air outlet 3a’’ is directed to the windshield.

[0101] In the Fig. 8 shown position of the air guide device 16’’ with closed air outlet 3c’’ The air mixing elements are located on the dashboard. 16’’b not parallel, that is, at an angle to the flow direction that deviates from 0° or 180° 17’’ the air through the cold air path 6’’ aligned.

[0102] The additional wall elements 19’’ to improve the mixing of the air through the warm air path 7’’ and the cold air path 6’’ The guided air mass flows are spaced apart from each other in the depth direction z such that the cross-section of the cold air path6’’ is further narrowed.

[0103] In Fig. 9 is the air guidance device 16’’ from the Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 in perspective view with the locking element 16’’a and the air guide elements 16’’b depicted as elements for intensifying air mixing.

[0104] The air guide elements 16’’b are designed with a straight plane and four side edges. While an air guide element 16’’b between the retaining elements 20 of the locking element 16’’a continuous and firmly attached to the retaining elements 20 Arranged in a connected manner, those with one end face directly attached to the shaft 22 connected air guide elements 16’’b arranged at intervals in the depth direction z, so that between these air guide elements 16’’b Open spaces have been created. The ones associated with the wave 22 connected air guide elements 16’’bpoint in the direction of the axis of rotation 15‘‘ or the same length in the depth direction z. All air guide elements 16’’b are aligned parallel to each other.

[0105] The air guide elements 16’’b are depending on the position of the air guidance device 16’’ either for virtually pressure-loss-free conveyance or for blocking or turbulence of the air flowing through the cold air path 6’’ formed by flowing air mass flow. Reference symbol list 1.1" air conditioning system 2.2" housing 3a, 3a'' Windscreen air outlet 3b Air outlet footwell 3c, 3c'' dashboard air outlet 4 evaporators 5 heat exchangers 6.6'' flow path, cold air path 7.7'' flow path, warm air path 8.8'' mixing chamber 9 Temperature flap 10, 10'' Air flap Air outlet Windshield 3a 11 Air flap Air outlet footwell 3b 12 Air flap Air outlet Dashboard 3c 13. Direction of airflow 14 Direction of airflow in warm air path 7 15, 15'' pivot axis 16, 16', 16'' Air guide device 16a, 16'a, 16''a closure element 16b, 16'b Air mixing element, Air resistance element 16''b Air mixing element, air guide element 17, 17'' Airflow direction through cold air path 6 18 Direction of airflow through warm air path 7 19 wall element 20 Retaining element of the locking element 16a , 16’a , 16’’a 21 Holding element of the air resistance elements 16b 22nd wave 23 Bearing element 24 wall elements x horizontal direction y vertical direction z Depth direction α angle QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0106] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0107] EP 1336517 A1

[0010] DE 19603126 A1

[0013]

Claims

[1] Air guidance system ( 16 , 16’ , 16’’ ) for an air conditioning system ( 1 , 1’’ ) of a motor vehicle, comprising at least one locking element ( 16a , 16’a , 16’’a ) and at least one air mixing element ( 16b , 16’b , 16’’b ), where – the locking element ( 16a , 16’a , 16’’a ) and the air mixing element ( 16b , 16’b , 16’’b ) a common axis of rotation ( 15 , 15’’ ) exhibit and – extending over the entire depth of a cross-section of a flow channel to be closed in the direction of the axis of rotation ( 15 , 15’’ ) extending locking element ( 16a , 16’a , 16’’a ) with retaining elements ( 20 ) is trained, characterized by that – at least one locking element ( 16a , 16’a , 16’’a) and at least one air mixing element ( 16b , 16’b , 16’’b ) around the common axis of rotation ( 15 , 15’’ ) are arranged in a rotatable manner and are rigidly connected to each other and – that in the direction of the axis of rotation ( 15 , 15’’ ) extending air mixing element ( 16b , 16’b , 16’’b ) is designed with flow openings, so that depending on the position of the air guide device ( 16 , 16’ , 16’’ ) a cross-section of at least one flow channel is changeable. [2] Air guidance system ( 16 , 16’ , 16’’ ) according to claim 1, characterized by that a large number of air mixing elements ( 16b , 16’b , 16’’b ) is formed, which in the direction of the axis of rotation ( 15 , 15’’ ) are arranged at such a distance from each other that between the air mixing elements ( 16b, 16’b , 16’’b ) each has a free space designed as a flow opening. [3] Air guidance system ( 16 , 16’ , 16’’ ) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the locking element ( 16a , 16’a , 16’’a ) and the air mixing element ( 16b , 16’b , 16’’b ) around the common axis of rotation ( 15 , 15’’ ) are arranged offset from each other by an angle. [4] Air guidance system ( 16 , 16’ , 16’’ ) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by that a wave ( 22 ) is designed with a longitudinal axis, wherein the longitudinal axis of the shaft ( 22 ) the axis of rotation ( 15 , 15’’ ) the air guidance system ( 16 , 16’ , 16’’ ) corresponds. [5] Air guidance system ( 16 , 16’ , 16’’ ) according to claim 4, characterized by that the air mixing element (16b , 16’b , 16’’b ) on the wave ( 22 ) is arranged. [6] Air guidance system ( 16’ , 16’’ ) according to claim 5, characterized by that the air mixing element ( 16’b , 16’’b ) is formed with a straight plane and four side edges, one of the side edges being directly adjacent to the shaft as the end face ( 22 ) arranged and rigidly connected to the shaft ( 22 ) is connected. [7] Air guidance system ( 16’’ ) according to claim 6, characterized by that a large number of air mixing elements ( 16’’b are arranged parallel to each other. [8] Air conditioning system ( 1 , 1’’ ) for a motor vehicle with means for conveying, cooling and heating air, comprising a housing ( 2 ) with – two flow paths ( 6 , 6’’ , 7 , 7’’ ), which leads into a mixing chamber ( 8 ,8’’ ) are formed at the mouth, with one formed by the first flow path ( 6 , 6’’ ) guided air mass flow a first temperature and a through the second flow path ( 7 , 7’’ ) guided air mass flow exhibit a second temperature, as well as – Air outlets ( 3a , 3a’’ , 3b , 3c , 3c’’ ), where the air mass flows through the flow paths ( 6 , 6’’ , 7 , 7’’ ) and the mixing chamber ( 8 , 8’’ ) to the air outlets ( 3a , 3a’’ , 3b , 3c , 3c’’ are conductive, characterized by that in the mixing chamber ( 8 , 8’’ ) an air guidance system ( 16 , 16’ , 16’’ ) is ordered according to one of the preceding claims. [9] Air conditioning system ( 1 ) according to claim 8, characterized bythat the axis of rotation ( 15 ) the air guidance system ( 16 , 16’ ) and the air mixing elements ( 16b , 16’b ) at the edge or outside of an air mass flow through the mixing chamber ( 8 are arranged. [10] Air conditioning system ( 1’’ ) according to claim 8, characterized by that the axis of rotation ( 15’’ ) the air guidance system ( 16’’ ) and the air mixing elements ( 16’’b ) depending on the position of the air guidance device ( 16’’ ) within or outside an air mass flow through the mixing chamber ( 8’’ ) are arranged, wherein the air mixing elements ( 16’’b ) are aligned parallel to the direction of the air mass flow when arranged within the air mass flow.