Conditioning device for local heat dissipation in a test bench and corresponding test bench

Abstract

Conditioning device for local heat dissipation in a test bench, in particular a vehicle test bench, for a test specimen, such as a vehicle or at least a part thereof, comprising: an air inlet opening designed to receive an airflow, in particular a thermal airflow, which flows at least partially over a heat source of the test specimen, and an air duct which is designed to discharge the airflow, in particular the thermal airflow, via a heat exchanger arranged therein, characterized by the fact that the conditioning device, in particular the air inlet opening, is movable in relation to the heat source of the test specimen and / or an outlet opening of the test specimen from which the, in particular thermal, airflow exits.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a conditioning device for the local removal of heat in a test bench, in particular a vehicle test bench, for a test object, such as a vehicle or at least a part thereof, as well as a corresponding test bench and a use of the conditioning device for the local removal of heat.

[0002] For the investigation and / or development of the properties of vehicles, or at least parts or components thereof, such as their thermal properties, under various climatic conditions and / or realistic driving wind conditions, so-called climate wind tunnels and / or thermal wind tunnels are predominantly used. A chassis dynamometer, on which the vehicle can be positioned, can be used to test the vehicle's mechanical stress.

[0003] To simulate thermal loads, for example under different conditions such as those that occur in different climate zones, parameters such as air temperature (e.g., in the range of approximately -25 °C to approximately 55 °C), humidity (e.g., in the range of approximately 5 to approximately 90%), and possibly air pressure and / or solar radiation (e.g., up to approximately 1 kW / m²) can be used. 2), or combinations thereof, can be varied in and / or on a wind tunnel, particularly a climate wind tunnel. For this purpose, the airflow of, for example, the simulated driving wind, after leaving the test area, can be fed via a pipe to a blower, then processed, and finally returned to the test area via an inlet nozzle. To simulate the driving wind (for example, up to approximately 300 km / h), especially for realistic airflow around the vehicle, the size of the inlet nozzle can range from approximately 5 to approximately 10 m. 2This allows, for example, the investigation of thermal issues, particularly those for which airflow around the vehicle can be decisive, such as the airflow through the engine compartment, the interior, and, if applicable, the heat exchangers located in the cooling airflow, the analysis of the exhaust system under real airflow conditions, and brake functionality in relation to temperature under realistic cooling. Furthermore, tests can be carried out at, for example, very low temperatures (e.g., defrosting performance of the heater) and / or very high ambient temperatures and / or active solar radiation (e.g., performance tests of air conditioning systems). It is evident that such test facilities are technically very complex and require a high power output (e.g., blower, cooling, and heating power in the megawatt range). The construction, assembly, and / or operation of these facilities are also complex.The use of such facilities is therefore associated with correspondingly high costs, which is why only a few such testing facilities exist.

[0004] Test benches, or vehicle test benches, can generally be differentiated according to their climate control capabilities. For example, a distinction can be made between test benches that are essentially fully air-conditioned and those that are partially or only partially air-conditioned.

[0005] Essentially, fully climate-controlled test benches, such as thermal roller test benches and / or climate roller test benches, can be used, among other things, to investigate vehicle thermal management (e.g., component cooling) and / or energy management at cell temperatures under various thermal conditions, for example, in the range of approximately -10 °C to approximately +45 °C. Furthermore, some cycles are conducted, for example in the USA, at different temperatures, i.e., at normal operating temperature (e.g., in the range of approximately 25 °C), in cold conditions (e.g., approximately -7 °C or higher / lower), and / or in hot conditions (e.g., approximately +35 °C or higher / lower, and / or with solar simulation), in order to investigate fuel consumption and / or emissions behavior under different operating conditions.

[0006] In test benches with limited or at least partial air conditioning, such as most chassis dynamometers, air conditioning is only used to maintain the temperature of the test cell within the range of normal operating conditions (for example, approximately between 20°C and 30°C; or higher or lower). This requires dissipating the heat generated by the test specimen within the test cell, e.g., to maintain the temperature range. Such test benches therefore have a significantly limited air conditioning capacity, typically designed to dissipate the heat generated during a specific driving cycle (possibly by utilizing the cycle's permissible increase in the minimum test cell temperature up to the maximum permissible temperature). A change in the cycle with increased heat input, such as...Switching from the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) to the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) or even to Real Driving Emissions (RDE) tests means that air conditioning capacity is no longer sufficient. A corresponding upgrade is structurally very complex and associated with high costs. Electrification with the future use of fuel cell vehicles will further exacerbate this problem, as a large amount of heat is introduced into the cell at a small temperature difference.

[0007] Conventional vehicle test benches face the problem that their climate control capacity is limited, typically designed for the average heat input of legally mandated driving cycles and / or a permissible temperature increase within the test cell. When simulating driving scenarios with, for example, higher heat input and / or longer test durations, the heat input becomes too high for the cell's climate control system, leading to an unacceptable temperature increase. Therefore, problems arise when simulating driving scenarios with, for example, continuous and / or high loads, and the simulation of real-world driving conditions on the test bench is thus only possible to a limited extent.

[0008] DE 10 2019009043 B3 relates to a vehicle airflow system which achieves a realistic airflow towards and around the vehicle by means of a vehicle airflow nozzle mounted on a swiveling arm and a chimney-like exhaust device.

[0009] DE 10 2009020601 A1 relates to a realistic vehicle airflow on a rolling road test stand achieved by combining a driving air blower with flow guidance at the front of the vehicle, a jet guidance at the side and an extraction blower with flow guidance.

[0010] These two documents, mentioned above, concern a flow guidance that is as realistic as possible; however, they do not address or solve the problem of heat dissipation from the test cell or test bench.

[0011] AT6824U2 provides an example of conditioning the air supplied to a test specimen ("intake air"). However, in this case, the supplied air is conditioned in terms of temperature, humidity, and pressure. The problem of heat dissipation from the test cell or test bench is not addressed here either.

[0012] In EP 3 293 504 B1, the air heated by a test specimen is fed into a conditioning device and conditioned to the desired temperature before the cooled air is returned to the interior of the test cell or the area surrounding the test object. However, this solution is disadvantageous because, on the one hand, the system is inflexible, and on the other hand, considerable structural effort is required to install and operate it. Furthermore, no special consideration is given to the airflow conditions around the vehicle. The described solution is also inefficient because, due to its design and structural limitations, the conditioning device can only absorb and cool a small portion of the heat generated by the vehicle, namely primarily at the rear of the vehicle (i.e., at the rear).(at the rear tire of the vehicle), meaning after the air has essentially already flowed through the entire vehicle and distributed itself within the test rig, warming and / or heating it up. The described approach therefore only represents a global conditioning approach with limited dynamics. Furthermore, retrofitting the described system is not possible without significant effort and high costs.

[0013] The object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the known prior art and in particular to provide an improved conditioning device for the, in particular local, removal of heat in a test rig.

[0014] The problem is solved by the features of the independent claims. The dependent claims describe preferred embodiments. Further aspects, advantages, and features become apparent from the dependent claims, the description, and the accompanying drawings.

[0015] The invention relates to a conditioning device for the local removal of heat in a test bench, in particular a vehicle test bench, for a test object, such as a vehicle or at least a part thereof, comprising: an air inlet opening designed to receive an airflow, in particular a thermal airflow, which flows at least partially over a heat source of the test specimen, and an air duct which is designed to discharge the airflow, in particular the thermal airflow, via a heat exchanger arranged therein, characterized by the fact that the conditioning device, in particular the air inlet opening, is movable in relation to the heat source of the test specimen and / or an outlet opening of the test specimen from which the, in particular thermal, airflow exits.

[0016] The invention relates to a test bench, in particular a vehicle test bench, comprising: a conditioning device according to one of the aspects and / or embodiments described herein and a test specimen, such as a vehicle or at least a part thereof.

[0017] The invention also relates to the use of a conditioning device according to one of the aspects and / or embodiments described herein for the local removal of heat in a test bench, in particular a vehicle test bench, in particular according to one of the aspects and / or embodiments described herein.

[0018] This document describes a conditioning device for the local removal of heat in a test bench, in particular a vehicle test bench, for a test specimen, such as a vehicle or at least a part thereof.

[0019] A "conditioning device" can be understood to be a device, apparatus, component, system, installation, and / or a system that is configured to achieve, control, adjust, influence, and / or regulate certain conditions, at least one parameter, and / or a specific environment. According to the present invention, the conditioning device can be a thermal conditioning device, preferably configured to adjust, control, regulate, influence, and / or achieve a temperature, e.g., a predetermined one, preferably at least within a specific area, for example, a test bench or a test cell, the terms of which may be used interchangeably herein. The thermal conditioning device can be configured, for example, to create, provide, adjust, and / or maintain optimal, in particular thermal, test conditions or environmental conditions.to maintain, preferably for a test specimen and / or on or in a test rig described herein.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the conditioning device according to the invention is configured for the local removal of heat, in particular in, within and / or from a test rig.

[0021] The term "in" a test rig can be understood to mean that, for example, the temperature within a test rig, such as the cell, can be regulated. The heat could also be dissipated "out" of the test rig, or from the interior of the test cell, for example, to the outside. However, it is also possible that the heat is dissipated "inside" and, for example, cooled, returned to the interior of the test rig or test cell, i.e., without leaving the test rig. The latter variant is preferred in the conditioning device according to the invention.

[0022] A "test bench" can be understood as a facility, platform, and / or system designed to accommodate a test object, such as a vehicle or at least a part thereof, and to test, analyze, and / or evaluate it under controlled conditions and / or in controlled or conditioned environments. By using test benches, manufacturers can, for example, improve the performance, efficiency, safety, and / or environmental compatibility of their test objects, such as vehicles, before they go into production and / or onto the market. A test bench can preferably be a vehicle test bench, specifically for a test object such as a vehicle or at least a part thereof. For example, the test bench or vehicle test bench could be a roller or flat track test bench on which a vehicle can be tested.Unlike a conventional vehicle test bench, where the vehicle rests on a stationary platform, a roller test bench places the vehicle on rotating rollers. These rollers simulate the vehicle's movement by rotating during the test. This allows, for example, the vehicle to "drive" on the test bench while remaining in a stationary environment. Test benches are also known where components, such as the powertrain, engine, or transmission, are tested on a system test bench, such as a powertrain test bench. The area enclosed by a test bench, i.e., the area surrounding the vehicle under test, can be called a test cell, although, as mentioned, these terms can be used interchangeably.Such test benches may also be referred to herein as vehicle test benches, whereby this can also apply to fully air-conditioned test benches and / or partially air-conditioned or at least partially air-conditioned test benches. The conditioning device according to the invention is essentially equally applicable or usable for the test benches described herein.

[0023] The test specimen is typically subjected to stress in a test rig, for example, to conduct appropriate technical investigations. On a chassis dynamometer and / or drive system test rig, mechanical stress can be applied using load devices in the form of electric machines, for instance, to investigate and / or optimize the energy efficiency of the vehicle's drive system. The test specimen, or the vehicle, can have various heat sources, such as different drive components like an internal combustion engine, a fuel cell, one or more electric motors, one or more batteries, a transmission, and / or a heat pump, or the like. During the test, for example, under load or during operation, the vehicle or a part of it can generate, release, and / or emit heat, for example, via the heat sources, which increases the temperature, e.g.,a predetermined, standard, and / or target temperature within the test bench or test cell can be influenced; for example, it can heat the test bench or test cell. This heat, generated by one or more heat sources of the test specimen, can spread or distribute within the test bench or test cell, thereby influencing, and in particular increasing, the overall and / or prevailing temperature of the test cell. A large proportion of the heat generated by a heat source, e.g., an engine, can be transferred, e.g., via pipes, especially cooling water pipes, to a cooler, in particular a heat exchanger, preferably connected to the heat source or engine, e.g., fluidically. The heat from the cooler or engine can then be transferred to a cooler or heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-water heat exchanger.The heat released by the heat exchanger can in turn be transferred to an airflow described herein to generate a thermal airflow that can distribute itself within the test rig and / or influence, in particular increase, the temperature in the test cell. The term "heat source" here can refer, for example, to the engine and / or one or more radiators of a test specimen or vehicle.

[0024] For various tests that can be performed on the test bench, it may be necessary to dissipate the heat generated in the test bench or test cell in order to control, adjust, regulate and / or maintain the temperature, e.g., the specified, standard and / or target temperature, within the test bench or test cell, or to keep it essentially uniform.

[0025] The conditioning device according to the invention is designed for the "local removal of heat," in particular in, within, and / or from a test rig. "Local removal of heat" can be understood to mean that the heat, e.g., the heat generated by the test specimen or the heat source, is removed, equalized, eliminated, and / or cooled locally, selectively, in a limited, area-specific, location-dependent, targeted, and / or point-specific manner. For example, the heat can be removed (locally) precisely where it is generated, emitted, and / or where it is considered a problem. This can be at a specific point or section on the test specimen, e.g., the vehicle or a part thereof, corresponding to an area smaller than the area or interior space defined or enclosed by the test cell. The conditioning device according to the invention can be configured to, for example, remove heatto be dissipated locally in the area of ​​the drive of the test specimen, for example from a cooler.

[0026] In contrast, "global heat dissipation" would refer to a general, comprehensive, holistic, and / or general cooling of, for example, the entire test bench or test cell, or the enclosed space. In conventional test benches, global heat dissipation is usually achieved through a test cell air conditioning system located at the ceiling of the test bench, which affects the test bench or test cell as a whole. This typically involves special grilles or inlets / outlets through which air can flow in from one area and out from another.

[0027] The conditioning device according to the invention can preferably be a portable and / or mobile, preferably mobile, conditioning device or thermal conditioning device. It can be designed so that it can be easily transported and / or does not need to be permanently installed in one location.

[0028] The conditioning device according to the invention, particularly its portable form, enables the local dissipation of heat, which requires significantly less effort compared to solutions described in the prior art, since, for example, no structural modifications are necessary and it can be easily retrofitted, for instance, to existing test benches. The conditioning device according to the invention is also more efficient; for example, it can dissipate more heat, and the temperature in the test bench can be regulated more easily to a specific temperature, for example, with less cooling power, since it can act locally, for example, directly at the heat source. Overall, this allows for a simple and cost-effective expansion of the test bench for test runs and / or tests, which can dissipate a higher heat input than existing test cell conditioning systems.The conditioning device according to the invention is particularly advantageous for regulating the overall test cell temperature. Changes in the heat input into the test cell can be quickly detected at the outlet, where the heated air leaves the heat source, enabling a rapid or immediate response and / or rapid thermal conditioning. This allows, among other things, high peak heats to be efficiently and / or effectively dissipated, thus relieving the test cell conditioning system and preventing an increase in the test cell temperature. The localized heat dissipation also results in significantly greater flexibility and / or dynamic performance.

[0029] The conditioning device according to the invention can include an air inlet opening configured to receive an airflow, particularly a thermal airflow, which flows at least partially over a heat source of the test specimen. It is also conceivable that a part, section, element, and / or area of ​​the test specimen is enclosed or contained within the air inlet opening, particularly at least partially or substantially completely, for example, a cooler. An "airflow," particularly a thermal airflow, can be understood as a flow, movement, current, and / or flux of air that is generated and / or influenced by thermal influences or effects. The air can be either heated or cooled, resulting in a change in its temperature. For example, it is possible that an airflow is generated by a fan positioned in front of the test specimen.However, this is only one possible example, and the invention is not limited to such airflows. Air generated by the vehicle's air intake can flow over the test object, e.g., a vehicle or only a part thereof, for example, over a heat source of the same, e.g., the engine or the engine compartment and / or the radiator, and thereby absorb heat. It is possible that the engine, as a heat source, as described, transfers the heat to the radiator, which in turn transfers the heat to the airflow. For example, the airflow can flow through the radiator and / or the engine compartment and / or exit at the underbody, e.g., and possibly flow around exhaust components located there. For example, a quantity of heat Q can be transferred to the airflow. zuThis airflow is supplied, for example, by the engine and / or the radiator. This airflow can therefore also be referred to as thermal airflow or heated airflow. If this airflow were not locally removed by the conditioning device, the test cell or test bench would heat up by the amount of heat Q. zuThe airflow, particularly the thermal airflow, can be drawn in by or flow into the air intake opening. Preferably, the airflow can flow essentially entirely into the air intake opening. This is advantageous because the airflow, for example, flowing over the heat source, can be captured locally, directly, immediately, and / or selectively (e.g., already in the area of ​​the drive system, such as the engine compartment), for example, before it can spread throughout the test bench or test cell and / or without it having to flow through the entire vehicle, for example, in its axial direction. This allows, among other things, more efficient thermal conditioning.

[0030] The conditioning device according to the invention can include an air duct configured to discharge the airflow, in particular thermal airflow, via a heat exchanger and / or heat exchanger arranged therein. The air duct can be, for example, a tubular and / or hose-like structure and / or a channel configured to, for example, guide, direct, distribute, steer, control, and / or transport an incoming airflow, such as the thermal airflow described herein. The air duct can be designed to transport and / or direct the air or airflow from a specific area, such as a heat source, to a specific target area or component. The air duct can be made of various materials, such as metal, e.g.The air duct can be made of steel, plastic, and / or composite materials and can have various sizes, cross-sections, shapes, and / or configurations depending on the application and / or requirements. It is also possible to design the air duct as, for example, a flexible, elastic, and / or, in particular, thermally insulated hose, for instance, made of a rubber material. The air duct can provide, for example, targeted guidance or flow control, which can transport the, for example, thermal airflow to the heat exchanger.

[0031] The conditioning device according to the invention, in particular the air inlet opening, can be movable with respect to the heat source of the test specimen and / or an outlet opening of the test specimen, from which the, in particular thermal, airflow exits.

[0032] An "outlet opening" can, for example, describe an opening from which the airflow, particularly thermal airflow, leaves the test object, such as the vehicle or the engine block. It is also possible that no outlet "opening" as such is present, in which case one can also speak of an outlet, outlet section, outlet area, and / or outlet point. A test object may have one or more outlet openings. These multiple outlet openings can, for example, be arranged in a row and / or on one or more levels. In the case of a vehicle as the test object, this could, for example, be one (or more) openings in / on the vehicle's underbody, which are, for example, in fluid contact with the drive system and / or a radiator. The outlet opening might be located, for example, in the rear area of ​​the engine compartment. In the case of a powertrain, for example...For a combustion engine and its cooling system to be used as the test object, this could, for example, describe a direct outlet opening of the engine radiator. The drive system can comprise: i) a combustion engine (CI) or a combustion engine and a transmission; ii) a combustion engine (CI), an electric motor, a battery, and a transmission; iii) a battery, an electric motor, and a transmission; and / or iv) a fuel cell, a battery, an electric motor, and a transmission. Additionally, cooling systems, such as at least one radiator connected via lines, particularly coolant lines, may be present. The cooling systems may include at least one actuator, such as a pump, a thermostat, and / or a valve. Multiple radiators may also be present, as in newer electric and / or hybrid vehicles.

[0033] The term "movable" can be understood to mean that the position, distance, and / or orientation of the conditioning device can be changed, adjusted, varied, and / or adapted, e.g., locally, with respect to the heat source and / or the outlet opening. This makes it possible, for example, to move the conditioning device in a targeted manner to capture the thermal airflow, particularly directly and / or immediately, i.e., before it can spread throughout the test rig. This increases the efficiency of heat dissipation, since a large portion of the heat can be captured, absorbed, and / or dissipated essentially at its source. This allows, among other things, the technical advantages mentioned herein regarding the local dissipation of heat to be achieved. The conditioning device according to the invention can therefore move and / or be transported essentially freely, which increases its adaptability, flexibility, dynamics, and / or versatility.It can be used in different locations and for different test subjects and can be easily and inexpensively retrofitted at any time, e.g.

[0034] The conditioning device and / or the air inlet opening can be configured to approach the heat source and / or the outlet opening of the test specimen, particularly locally, and / or to interact with it locally. "Approaching" can be understood as minimizing the distance between the conditioning device or air inlet opening and the heat source and / or the outlet opening of the test specimen. Preferably, the distance between them can be chosen to be as small as possible, for example, to capture the airflow, particularly thermal airflow, as close as possible to its point of origin and / or the heat source. "Interacting with" it can be understood as establishing contact, for example, a touch contact and / or contact, and / or intervening in the airflow, particularly thermal airflow. To establish contact, a seal and / or strip, e.g., made of rubber, can also be provided on or around the air inlet opening, for example, to prevent airflow from entering the test specimen.to protect the examinee from damage.

[0035] As already mentioned, the position, distance, and / or orientation of the conditioning device, particularly the air inlet opening, relative to the heat source and / or the outlet of the test specimen can be changed, varied, adapted, and / or adjusted. This significantly increases the dynamics and / or flexibility, as it allows the conditioning device to be used for a variety of test specimens, such as different vehicle types and / or different parts thereof. Furthermore, this enables the aforementioned technical advantages regarding the local dissipation of heat. It also provides correction options related to the heat source and / or the outlet of the test specimen.

[0036] For example, the air inlet opening can be movable, and in particular positionable, such that the airflow, especially thermal airflow, preferably directly after exiting the heat source and / or the outlet opening of the test specimen, flows into the air inlet opening, particularly in a substantially direct and / or immediate manner, in such a way that distribution and / or propagation within the test rig is minimized or substantially prevented. This increases the efficiency of heat dissipation, as a large proportion of the heat can be captured, absorbed, and / or dissipated essentially at its point of origin.

[0037] The conditioning device according to the invention and / or the air inlet opening can, for example, be movable such that a contact, in particular a substantially direct contact, preferably a contact contact and / or a touch contact, can be established between the air inlet opening and the heat source and / or a section of the test specimen on which the outlet opening is arranged. A substantially direct contact, preferably a contact contact and / or a touch contact, can describe contact with, for example, an element of the drive and / or the vehicle, such as contact with, docking with, and / or attachment to, for example, the heat source. With regard to the outlet opening, this can be understood as contact with, for example, contact with, docking with, and / or attachment to, for example, a panel and / or a sheet metal part, such as on the underbody of a vehicle, in which it is arranged.This allows, among other things, the technical advantages mentioned herein regarding the local dissipation of heat to be achieved.

[0038] In the conditioning device according to the invention, the size and / or shape of the air inlet opening can be adapted to the size and / or shape of the outlet opening of the test specimen. This can mean, for example, that the size and / or shape of the air inlet opening can be selected to be larger than the outlet opening of the test specimen. The opening diameters of various outlet openings are known, so the opening diameter of the air inlet opening can be selected accordingly. In an advantageous embodiment, the diameter of the air inlet opening can also be adjustable, variable, and / or changeable. For example, mechanical screens or flaps can be provided which, for example, by moving them, in particular by adjusting and / or folding them out or in, can enlarge or reduce the diameter of the air inlet opening.It is also conceivable that the air inlet opening is designed as a flexible, elastic, and / or preferably thermally insulated hose, e.g., made of rubber, with an adjustable opening diameter. Specifically, the air inlet opening can have a larger diameter and / or cross-section than the outlet opening of the test specimen, with the air inlet opening being dimensioned to essentially completely surround the outlet opening of the test specimen. This increases the efficiency of heat dissipation, as a large portion of the heat can be captured, absorbed, and / or dissipated essentially at its point of origin, and essentially prevents heat from flowing past the air inlet opening and spreading and / or distributing itself within the test cell.

[0039] As already mentioned, the design of the conditioning device can vary. For example, the air duct can have a curved, stepped, and / or bent shape, at least in sections. However, it is also conceivable that the air duct runs essentially straight. The air duct can have a substantially round, polygonal, and / or angular (e.g., square or rectangular) cross-section. Other shapes, such as trapezoidal, are also conceivable. The air duct can have an exemplary length, e.g., axial, of at least approximately 0.5 m or more or less. In the case of, for example, a rectangular cross-section, the air duct can have a width of, for example, approximately 1 m and a height of, for example, approximately 15 cm. This design can be advantageous, for example, with several adjacent outlet openings. The height of the air duct, or rather...The conditioning device can be selected so that it fits under any vehicle suitable for the test bench. The width of the conditioning device can be chosen so that it lies essentially within the track width, e.g., between the (front) tires. The air inlet opening can also have various shapes and / or cross-sections. The air inlet opening and / or the air guide duct, e.g., in the area of ​​the air inlet opening, can, for example, be essentially trough-shaped. A preferably at least partially curved, stepped, and / or bent shape of the air guide duct can, for example, allow the air inlet opening to extend towards the heat source, e.g., when the air guide duct is located under a test specimen, e.g., a vehicle. This allows, for example,This also makes it possible to access difficult-to-reach areas and / or locations, and to position the air inlet opening even closer to the heat source or outlet opening in order to capture the thermal airflow. Designing the air inlet opening to be essentially trough-shaped can improve the capture of the thermal airflow, because, for example, a larger portion of it can be captured, meaning less flows into the test rig or test cell. Other designs are also conceivable, such as an air inlet opening that is essentially elongated, slit-like, triangular, polygonal, round, and / or (multi-)angular. Optional recesses and / or ridges can be provided within the air duct, which can, for example, improve the flow characteristics of the thermal airflow.

[0040] The conditioning device can be designed in two parts. For example, the conditioning device can have a first part comprising the air inlet opening and a second part comprising the air guide duct. The two parts of the conditioning device can be connected to each other, e.g., detachably, by a special mechanism such as a clip, hook-and-loop fastener, snap-in, and / or locking mechanism, or alternatively, by a screw connection. This further increases flexibility, as, for example, different parts with different air inlet openings can be provided, which can be adapted as needed and / or to a specific situation, test bench, or test specimen, or to specific outlet openings. Similarly, air guide ducts with different cross-sections, profiles, and / or configurations can be provided and / or combined on the second part.The two-part design allows for a modular system where any components, especially any air inlet openings and any air ducts, can be connected. However, it is also conceivable to design the conditioning device as a single piece, which simplifies the manufacturing process.

[0041] The heat exchanger can be an air-to-fluid heat exchanger, preferably a cooler, arranged within the air duct. The heat exchanger can preferably be located on a section substantially opposite the air inlet opening, particularly on an air outlet opening of the air duct. The shape and / or cross-section of the air outlet opening is optional and can be adapted as desired.

[0042] A "heat exchanger" can be understood as a device, system, and / or component designed to transfer heat from one medium to another without, for example, the media themselves needing to come into direct contact. An air-fluid heat exchanger can be designed to exchange heat between air or an airflow and a fluid (e.g., water, oil, coolant). Heat transfer can occur either through direct contact or through conduction, for example, via baffles. An airflow, for example, a thermal airflow, passing through the test object, carries the amount of heat Q zuOnce absorbed, the heat can be transferred to the heat exchanger, for example to the fluid (e.g., water or a special coolant) that can absorb it. This allows the incoming airflow, particularly the thermal airflow, to be cooled. The airflow can then exit the air duct through the air outlet and either be discharged from the test rig or returned to it, e.g., the interior of the test cell.

[0043] The conditioning device according to the invention can include an intake device configured to draw in the airflow, particularly thermal airflow, and in particular to convey and / or direct it to the air inlet opening. The intake device can, in particular, be a fan. Several intake devices can also be provided. The number of intake devices can be selected, for example, based on the cross-sectional shape of the air inlet opening and / or the air duct. With a rectangular cross-section, as mentioned above as an example, two or three intake devices can be used, which can be arranged, for example, side by side, and in particular distributed across the duct cross-section. The intake device enables the airflow, particularly thermal airflow, to reach the air inlet opening in a targeted and efficient manner. This can have several advantages.Firstly, this allows for better capture of the airflow in hard-to-reach areas, ensuring that the largest possible proportion reaches the air intake opening. Secondly, the intake system can also counteract, compensate for, or at least reduce resistance, such as air resistance, caused by the presence of the conditioning device or the air duct itself and / or by devices, equipment, and / or components located within it, such as sensors. This additional resistance can be caused, for example, by the geometric design and / or simply by the presence of the air duct or the aforementioned components, and therefore corresponds to a geometrically induced resistance. The flow characteristics, such as the velocity and / or pressure of the airflow, particularly the thermal airflow described herein, can thus be influenced or modified.Changes can occur, altering or distorting the vehicle airflow and therefore negatively impacting the test or environmental conditions on the test bench or the measured parameters. The intake device described herein (e.g., one or more) can compensate for, reduce, and / or counteract such effects and, in particular, ensure that there is essentially no disturbance of the vehicle airflow and / or the thermal airflow. In other words, the intake device(s) can create a condition in which the airflow, especially the thermal airflow, flows through and exits the conditioning device that is comparable to or nearly identical to a condition in which the airflow, especially the thermal airflow, does not flow through a conditioning device (i.e., the conditioning device would not be present); thus, it flows essentially unimpeded, undisturbed, or...flows unaffected over the test specimen and / or the conditioning device. This is because, for example,

[0044] Pressure resistances and / or velocities of the thermal airflow in the conditioning device are adjusted. The intake device can also be controlled and / or regulated accordingly to compensate for and / or balance these effects, for example by a control device described herein. As described herein, the control device can be configured to control the intake device in such a way that pressure resistances caused by the conditioning device, in particular the air duct and / or devices arranged therein, are compensated, reduced, balanced and / or minimized.The control device can be configured to control the intake device in such a way that at least one velocity of the, in particular thermal, airflow within the air duct essentially corresponds to a velocity of a thermal airflow without the conditioning device, in particular without the air duct and / or devices arranged therein.

[0045] The conditioning device according to the invention can comprise one or more actuating devices, in particular one or more valves, and / or a coolant distribution system. An "actuating device" can be a device, apparatus, element, and / or mechanism configured to control, monitor, adjust, and / or regulate certain parameters and / or processes within the conditioning device, in particular the heat exchanger. The actuating device can, for example, be configured to control, monitor, adjust, and / or regulate the direction, flow, rate, volumetric flow, and / or movement of a medium, for example, a coolant for the heat exchanger. The coolant distribution system can be a system that guides, directs, and / or distributes coolant, for example, within the conditioning device, in particular the heat exchanger.The actuator, in particular the valve, can help control the flow of coolant to influence and / or maintain the desired temperature conditions.

[0046] The coolant piping system can comprise at least one first coolant line configured to convey coolant to the heat exchanger and, in particular, a second coolant line configured to discharge coolant from the heat exchanger, wherein, in particular, the first coolant line and / or the second coolant line is equipped with a coupling, in particular a quick-release coupling, for connecting and / or disconnecting, in particular, the conditioning device from a test bench's own water supply. Through the coolant piping system and / or the coupling(s), the conditioning device can be easily connected to a test bench's own water supply, for example, using flexible lines (hoses). Thus, coolant can be accessed directly on-site.The conditioning device according to the invention can therefore move and / or be transported essentially freely without being forced to transport the coolant itself. This further increases its adaptability, flexibility, dynamics, and / or versatility. Since almost all test benches have a water connection or a dedicated water supply, the conditioning device according to the invention can be used in different locations and for different test specimens and can be easily and cost-effectively retrofitted at any time.

[0047] The conditioning device according to the invention may further comprise: At least one sensor that can be arranged and / or is arranged within the air duct, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect at least one parameter associated with the airflow entering the air inlet opening, in particular a thermal airflow. The at least one sensor can be a sensor for measuring air temperature, air velocity, pressure difference, volume flow, and / or air mass flow. The presence of the at least one sensor in the air duct can, as mentioned above, be substantially compensated for by the intake device. The at least one sensor arranged within the air duct can enable precise measurement of various parameters of the airflow, such as temperature, velocity, and mass, thus enabling monitoring and / or control of the airflow, in particular efficient temperature control in the test bench.By continuously monitoring air parameters, for example in real time, any deviations or irregularities in the airflow can be detected and corrected. The data collected by the sensors can be used to implement automated control mechanisms. Based on this data, the air conditioning system can automatically make adjustments to maintain the desired airflow parameters.

[0048] Alternatively or additionally, the conditioning device according to the invention may further comprise: At least one sensor, which can be and / or is arranged within the coolant piping system, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect at least one parameter associated with a coolant of the heat exchanger. The at least one sensor can, for example, be connected to or be connected to the first coolant line and / or the second coolant line in order to detect the at least one parameter associated with the coolant of the heat exchanger. The at least one sensor, which is arranged within the coolant piping system, can enable precise monitoring of the coolant parameters, such as temperature and flow rate, which can enable efficient use of the coolant and optimal performance of the heat exchanger. This can also contribute to efficient temperature control in the test bench.

[0049] The at least one parameter assigned to the coolant of the heat exchanger can include one or more of the following: a temperature of the coolant before it enters the heat exchanger, and / or a temperature of the coolant after and / or while it exits the heat exchanger; and / or a mass flow rate of the coolant through the heat exchanger, and / or a pressure difference and / or a volume flow rate of the coolant.

[0050] The conditioning device according to the invention may further comprise: A control device for controlling and / or regulating the actuator and / or the intake device. The "control device" can, for example, ensure that the desired parameters and / or conditions, particularly thermal ones, are achieved and / or maintained in the test bench, and / or that the disturbances described herein are compensated, minimized, and / or reduced by the presence of the conditioning device, the air duct, and / or corresponding devices arranged therein.

[0051] The control device can be configured to control the intake device in such a way that pressure resistances caused by the conditioning device, in particular the air duct and / or devices arranged therein, are compensated. The control device can be configured to control the intake device in such a way that at least one velocity of the airflow, in particular the thermal airflow, within the air duct essentially corresponds to the velocity of a thermal airflow without the conditioning device, in particular without the air duct and / or devices arranged therein.

[0052] The control unit can be communicatively connected to an interface, particularly an automation unit, of the test bench for the exchange of measured variables and / or setpoints, especially those associated with the test bench. An "interface" can be a communicative interface, such as an analog or digital interface, particularly a bus, e.g., CAN, Ethernet, or the like. For example, the automation system can also include a computer that communicates via the interface, e.g., with a control panel or user interface, such as a display (e.g., a physical arrangement of buttons, switches, and / or a touchscreen), through which an operator can provide information, instructions, inputs, and / or commands, e.g., by typing. The control unit is connected to the test bench's automation unit via the interface.This connection enables the exchange of information, such as measured variables like temperature, pressure, or airflow, as well as setpoints, standard values, and / or test bench-specific specifications. Through communication with the test bench's automation system, the control unit can continuously monitor (e.g., in real time) and / or query the current conditions on the test bench and, if necessary, make adjustments or changes to adapt and / or regulate the airflow, particularly the thermal airflow. Integrating a control unit into the conditioning system can increase the efficiency and / or accuracy of temperature control on the test bench and enable precise adjustment of the actuator and intake system according to the test bench's requirements.Overall, the integration of a control unit contributes to improving the performance, efficiency and / or reliability of the conditioning device, which in turn leads to more accurate, effective and / or consistent temperature conditions in the test bench.

[0053] The control device can be configured to measure the temperature of an airflow exiting and / or discharged from the air duct, in particular from an air outlet opening of the air duct, especially thermal airflow, based on the at least one parameter associated with the airflow entering the air intake opening, in particular the thermal airflow, at least one parameter assigned to the coolant of the heat exchanger, at least one measured variable assigned to the test bench, such as a test cell temperature (e.g., an existing one), and / or at least one target value assigned to the test bench, such as a test cell temperature (e.g., a predetermined one).

[0054] According to the invention, a method for the local dissipation of heat by means of a conditioning device according to one of the aspects and / or embodiments described herein may also be provided. Furthermore, a method for the local dissipation of heat in a test bench, in particular a vehicle test bench, according to one of the aspects and / or embodiments described herein may be provided. It should be understood that the descriptions made herein with regard to the conditioning device and / or the test bench according to the invention can equally apply to the methods according to the invention for the local dissipation of heat, and vice versa. The disclosure content in this respect is therefore transferable and / or interchangeable.

[0055] An exemplary method for the local removal of heat in a test rig, in particular a vehicle test rig, for a test specimen, such as a vehicle or at least a part thereof, in particular by means of a conditioning device described herein according to one or more aspects and / or embodiments described herein, may comprise: Moving a conditioning device, in particular its air inlet opening, in relation to a heat source of a test specimen over which an airflow, in particular a thermal airflow, at least partially flows, and / or in relation to an outlet opening of the test specimen from which the airflow, in particular a thermal airflow, exits, in particular to receive it, and Discharge of the airflow, especially thermal airflow, via a heat exchanger.

[0056] The procedure may also include: Changing, in particular adjusting, a distance between the conditioning device, in particular its air inlet opening, and the heat source and / or the outlet opening of the test specimen, for the purpose of, in particular locally, approaching and / or, in particular locally, attacking it.

[0057] The procedure may also include: Adjusting, in particular setting, a position, a distance and / or an orientation of the conditioning device, in particular the air inlet opening, in relation to the heat source and / or the outlet opening of the test specimen.

[0058] The procedure may also include: Establishing a contact, in particular a substantially direct contact, preferably a contact element and / or a touch contact, between the air inlet opening and the heat source and / or a section of the test specimen on which the outlet opening is located.

[0059] The procedure may also include: Conveying and / or directing, in particular drawing in, especially thermal, airflow, especially to the air inlet opening.

[0060] The procedure may also include: Capturing, in particular measuring, at least one parameter that is associated with the airflow entering the air inlet opening, in particular the thermal airflow, and / or Recording, in particular measuring, at least one parameter that is associated with the coolant of the heat exchanger.

[0061] The procedure may also include: Controlling, in particular monitoring, adjusting and / or regulating, the temperature of an airflow exiting and / or discharged from the air duct, in particular from an air outlet opening of the air duct, especially thermal airflow, based on the at least one parameter associated with the airflow entering the air intake opening, in particular the thermal airflow, at least one parameter assigned to the coolant of the heat exchanger, at least one measured variable assigned to the test bench, such as a test cell temperature (e.g., an existing one), and / or at least one target value assigned to the test bench, such as a test cell temperature (e.g. a predefined one), especially for controlling a thermal environment of the test bench and / or the test cell. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0062] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are now described with reference to the accompanying drawings. To ensure a detailed understanding of the features of the present disclosure mentioned herein, a more detailed description of the disclosure, which was briefly summarized above, can be obtained by referring to exemplary embodiments. The accompanying drawings relate to embodiments of the disclosure and are described below: Fig. Figure 1 shows a test bench with a state-of-the-art conditioning device for global heat removal in a test bench; Fig. 2A shows an exemplary conditioning device according to the invention for local heat removal; Fig. 2B shows another exemplary conditioning device according to the invention for local heat removal; Fig. 2C shows the exemplary conditioning device according to the invention. Fig. 2B for local heat dissipation as a two-part design; Fig. Figure 3 shows the exemplary conditioning device according to the invention. Fig. 2B for local heat dissipation in an exemplary roller test rig; Fig. 4A shows the exemplary conditioning device according to the invention. Fig. 2B for local heat dissipation in another vehicle test bench; Fig. 4B shows the exemplary conditioning device according to the invention. Fig. 2B for local heat dissipation in another vehicle test bench; Fig. 4C shows the exemplary conditioning device according to the invention. Fig. 2A for local heat dissipation in an exemplary vehicle test bench; and Fig. Figure 5 shows a course or flow behavior of an exemplary, simulated incoming airflow as well as of an airflow, in particular a thermal airflow, which flows at least partially over a heat source. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EXECUTION FORMS

[0063] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to embodiments shown in the drawings, wherein in all drawings essentially functionally identical elements have the same reference numerals.

[0064] The drawings are schematic and not to scale. Some elements in the drawings may have exaggerated dimensions to emphasize aspects of the present disclosure and / or for greater clarity of presentation. For the sake of simplicity, identical reference numerals are used to identify identical elements that are common to all drawings. It is intended that elements and features of one embodiment may be advantageously incorporated into other embodiments without further mention. In general, only the differences between individual embodiments are described.

[0065] Each embodiment serves to illustrate the disclosure and should not be understood as limiting the disclosure. Furthermore, features presented or described as part of one embodiment may be used in conjunction with other embodiments to create a further embodiment. It is intended that the description includes such modifications and variations.

[0066] Fig. Figure 1 shows an exemplary test rig 100 with a conditioning device 102 according to the prior art for the global removal of heat in the test rig 100. The global conditioning device 102 can also be referred to as test cell conditioning 102, by means of which the test rig 100 or the test cell 100 can be air-conditioned or conditioned. The global conditioning device 102 is located on the ceiling of the test rig 100 and is permanently installed, i.e., rigidly, statically, and / or immovably mounted. The conditioning device can be designed as a pipe system 102 with an inlet 102A and an outlet 102B. The test stand 100 contains a test specimen 104, in particular a vehicle 104. As indicated by the roller 106, the exemplary test stand 100 is a roller test stand 106, although other test stands are also conceivable.As indicated by arrow 103A, a specific volume of air, or outflow 103A, can be drawn in through inlet 102A of the global conditioning device 102. This volume of air can be cooled to the desired test cell temperature, for example, via an air conditioning unit 105, and then returned to the test cell 100 via outlet 102B, for example, as inflow 103B.

[0067] As can be seen, the test specimen 104 can have a heat source 108, for example, various drive components such as an (internal combustion) engine, a fuel cell, one or more electric motors, one or more batteries, a gearbox and / or a heat pump, or the like. In the present example, the heat source is an engine 108 or a cooler 120. During a test, e.g., under load or during operation, the engine 108 can generate, dissipate, and / or emit heat, which can increase the temperature, e.g., a predetermined, standard, and / or target temperature, within the test stand 100 or the test cell 100. A large proportion of the heat generated by the heat source 108, e.g., the engine 108, can be transferred, e.g., via lines, in particular cooling water lines (not shown), to a cooler 120, preferably one integrated with the heat source 108 or the engine 108.The heat is transferred to a fluid, connected heat exchanger 120, in particular an air-water heat exchanger 120. The heat transferred by the cooler or heat exchanger 120 can in turn be transferred to an airflow 114 described herein in order to generate a thermal airflow 116 (see also ). Fig. 5), which can distribute itself within the test rig 100 and / or influence, in particular increase, the temperature in the test cell. The airflow 114 can, for example, reach the radiator 120 and / or the engine 108 via an opening 122, e.g., a grille, or a radiator grille 122. It should be understood that several openings can also be provided in the test specimen 104, e.g., several radiator grilles. Furthermore, an optional airflow blower 110, e.g., in the form of a fan 112, is available in the test rig 100, which can, for example, be positioned directly in front of the test specimen 104. The airflow blower 110 can, for example, be connected to an interface, in particular an automation device (not shown), of the test rig 100 and thereby be controlled and / or actuated. The airflow blower 110 can direct an airflow 114 (in Fig. (1 indicated by the arrows) generate an airflow that can interact with the heat source 108, i.e., the engine 108 and / or the radiator 120. For example, the airflow 114 can enter through the opening 122, flow at least partially over a heat source, e.g., the radiator 120, of the test specimen 104, and thereby absorb heat. For example, the airflow 114 can flow through the engine compartment 108 and / or along the underbody and exit, e.g., at an outlet opening 118 (see Figure 1). Fig. 1 and Fig. 3).

[0068] For example, a quantity of heat Q can be added to the airflow 114. zu are supplied, thereby generating a particularly thermal airflow 116. As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the inlet 102A and the outlet 102B of the global conditioning device 102 are located on the ceiling of the test rig and therefore far from the actual heat source 108 and / or an outlet opening from which the airflow 116, particularly thermal airflow, exits. This results in the heat Q zuThe thermal airflow 116 can distribute itself arbitrarily within the test rig 100, as indicated by the dashed arrow 116, particularly before it can even reach the inlet 102A of the global conditioning device 102. It should be noted that the thermal airflow 116, in particular, can spread laterally, i.e., essentially transversely to an axial direction of the vehicle 104, and thus heat the test rig 100. Because this thermal airflow 116 is removed globally, i.e., completely for the test rig 100, by the global conditioning device 102, the test cell or test rig 100 increases by the amount of heat Q. zu The conditioning device 102 of the test stand or test cell 100 therefore only has an influence on it as a whole.

[0069] The global conditioning device 102 according to Fig. 1 is disadvantageous because it is inflexible, i.e., rigid, immobile, static, and / or fixed, and does not pay particular attention to the flow conditions around the vehicle 104. Furthermore, the global conditioning device 102 is inefficient because it can only absorb and cool a small portion of the heat generated by the vehicle 104 or the engine 108, namely, in particular, only the portion of the heat that is located in the direction of the inlet 102A and / or in the direction of the rear of the vehicle 104 (e.g., at the rear tire of the vehicle), i.e., after the air has essentially already flowed through the entire vehicle 104 and distributed itself within the test rig 100. Extracting heat from the rear of the vehicle 104 or the engine 108 is therefore not possible.The fact that the airflow 116, especially thermal airflow, could essentially already flow through the entire vehicle 104 is therefore also disadvantageous, since the airflow 116 is thus given the opportunity to spread out and heat the test stand 100.

[0070] The Fig. Figures 2A-2C each show an exemplary conditioning device 202 according to the invention for local heat dissipation. The conditioning device 202 according to the invention Fig. 2A differs from the conditioning device 202 according to the invention only in the shape or cross-section of the inlet opening 204 and the design of the air guide channel 206. Fig. 2C shows the conditioning device 202 according to Fig. 2B in two-part design, including the one in Fig. The conditioning device shown in 2A may be designed in two parts. Therefore, the Fig. 2A-2C are described together below.

[0071] The conditioning device 202 according to the invention is for the “local removal of heat”, in particular in, within and / or from a test rig (e.g. the test rig 100 in Fig. 1 and / or the test bench 200 in Fig. 3, and / or the test benches in Fig. 4A-4C) and can locally, selectively, within limits, area-specifically, location-dependently, and / or pointwise dissipate, equalize, remove, and / or cool heat generated by a test specimen 104 or the heat source 108. By means of the conditioning device 202 according to the invention, the heat can be removed (locally) precisely where it is generated, emitted, and / or where it is considered a problem. This can be at a specific point on the test specimen, e.g., the vehicle 104 or a part thereof, corresponding to an area smaller than the area or interior space defined, e.g., by the test cell 100 / 200. The conditioning device 202 according to the invention can be configured to dissipate heat, e.g., locally in the area of ​​the drive 108, e.g., the radiator 120, and / or the engine of the test specimen 104. The conditioning device 202 according to the invention is, as shown in the Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B to identify, preferably a portable and / or mobile conditioning device or thermal conditioning device 202, which can be easily transported and / or does not need to be permanently installed in one place. Thus, in contrast to the global conditioning device 102 from Fig. 1. The conditioning device 202 according to the invention, in particular portable, can therefore enable the local dissipation of heat, which leads to the advantages mentioned herein, which will not be repeated separately here.

[0072] The conditioning device 202 according to the invention can comprise an air inlet opening 204 which is configured to introduce an airflow 116, in particular a thermal airflow (for example, the thermal airflow as it is in Fig. (as shown in Figures 1-4C), which flows at least partially over a heat source 108, e.g., the engine or the radiator 120, of the test specimen 104. The airflow 116, particularly thermal airflow, can be received by or flow into the air inlet opening 204. Preferably, the airflow 116 can flow substantially completely into the air inlet opening 204. The conditioning device 202 according to the invention also offers the advantage that it can be adjusted accordingly, or its position, distance, and / or orientation can be corrected, e.g., to improve or adapt the inflow position and / or the inflow behavior at any time. This is advantageous because the airflow 116, e.g., flowing over the heat source, can be captured locally, directly, immediately, and / or selectively (e.g., already in the area of ​​the drive 108, e.g., the engine compartment 108), e.g., before it can spread throughout the test stand or test cell.This results, among other things, in more efficient thermal conditioning, as well as other advantages mentioned herein relating to the local dissipation of heat.

[0073] The conditioning device 202 according to the invention can comprise an air duct 206 configured to discharge the airflow 116, particularly thermal airflow, via a heat exchanger 208 that can be arranged and / or is arranged therein. The air duct 206 can be, for example, a tubular and / or hose-like structure and / or a channel configured to direct, guide, distribute, steer, control, and / or transport, for example, the thermal airflow 116 described herein. The air duct 206 can be made of various materials such as metal, e.g., steel, plastic, and / or composite materials, and can have different sizes, cross-sections, shapes, and / or configurations depending on the application and / or requirements. Fig. 2A and Fig. Figure 2B shows exemplary cross-sections, shapes and / or configurations. The air duct 206 can, for example, provide targeted guidance or flow control, which can convey, for example, the thermal airflow 116 to the heat exchanger 208.

[0074] The conditioning device 202 according to the invention, in particular the air inlet opening 204, can be movable with respect to the heat source 108 of the test specimen 104 and / or an outlet opening of the test specimen 104 from which the, in particular thermal, airflow 116 exits. In particular, the position, distance, and / or orientation of the conditioning device 202 can be changed, adjusted, varied, and / or adapted, e.g., locally, with respect to the heat source and / or the outlet opening. This makes it possible, for example, to move the conditioning device 202 in a targeted manner to capture the thermal airflow 116, in particular directly and / or immediately, i.e., before it can spread throughout the test rig. This increases the efficiency of heat dissipation, since a large proportion of the heat can be captured, absorbed, and / or dissipated essentially at its point of origin.This allows, among other things, the technical advantages mentioned herein with regard to the local dissipation of heat to be achieved. The conditioning device 202 according to the invention can therefore move and / or be transported essentially freely, which increases its adaptability, flexibility, dynamics, and / or versatility. It can be used in different locations and for different test specimens and can be easily and cost-effectively retrofitted, for example, at any time.

[0075] The conditioning device 202 and / or the air inlet opening 204 can be configured to approach the heat source and / or the outlet opening 118 of the test specimen 104, particularly locally, and / or to act upon it locally. Furthermore, the position, distance, and / or orientation of the conditioning device 202, particularly the air inlet opening 204, relative to the heat source and / or the outlet opening of the test specimen, can be changeable, variable, adaptable, and / or adjustable. For example, the air inlet opening can be movable, particularly positionable, such that the airflow 116, particularly thermal airflow, preferably directly after exiting the heat source and / or the outlet opening of the test specimen, flows into the air inlet opening 204, particularly essentially directly and / or immediately.The conditioning device 202 and / or the air inlet opening 204 according to the invention can, for example, be movable in such a way that a contact, in particular a substantially direct contact, preferably a contact contact and / or a touch contact, can be established between the air inlet opening 204 and the heat source and / or a section of the test specimen on which the outlet opening is arranged.

[0076] The air inlet opening 204 can have a larger diameter and / or cross-section than the outlet opening of the test specimen, wherein, in particular, the air inlet opening 204 is dimensioned to substantially completely surround the outlet opening of the test specimen. An exemplary diameter of the air inlet opening 204, if, for example, it is rectangular, can have an exemplary width of at least approximately 1 m and an exemplary height of approximately 15 cm.

[0077] As already mentioned, the design of the conditioning device 204 can vary. For example, the air duct 206 can have a curved and / or bent shape, or a curved and / or bent profile, at least in some sections. This is illustrated by example in Fig. 2B is shown. However, the air duct 206 can also have a stepped shape and / or a stepped course, at least in some sections. This is exemplified in Fig. 2A is shown. However, it is also conceivable that the air duct 206 runs essentially straight. The air duct 206 can have an essentially round, polygonal, and / or angular (e.g., square or rectangular) cross-section. Other shapes, such as trapezoidal, are also conceivable. The air inlet opening can also comprise various shapes and / or cross-sections. The air inlet opening 204 and / or the air duct 206, e.g., in the area of ​​the air inlet opening 204, can, for example, be essentially trough-shaped (e.g., Fig. 2B). In Fig. Figure 2A shows the air inlet opening 204 as an example of a circular, in particular a fully circular, opening, although other shapes would also be conceivable. A preferably at least partially curved, stepped and / or bent shape of the air guide duct 206 can, for example, allow the air inlet opening 204 to be positioned, for example, in a state where the air guide duct 206 or the conditioning device 202 is located under a test specimen, for example, a vehicle 104 (see Figure 2A). Fig. 3) extends towards the heat source 108 or is thereby positioned closer to it. This allows, for example, hard-to-reach places and / or areas to become accessible, and the air inlet opening 204 to be positioned even closer to the heat source or the outlet opening in order to capture the particularly thermal airflow 116. The additional design of the air inlet opening 204 as essentially trough-shaped (see Fig. 2B), can improve the absorption of the particularly thermal airflow 116, because this allows, for example, a larger part of it to be captured or absorbed, so that less flows into the test stand 100, 200 or the test cell 100, 200.

[0078] As in Fig. As can be seen from 2C, the conditioning device 202 can be designed in two parts. For example, the conditioning device 202 can have a first part 202A, which includes the air inlet opening 204, and a second part 202B, which includes the air guide duct 206. The two parts 202A, 202B of the conditioning device 202 can be connected to each other, e.g. detachably (which is shown in Fig. 2C (indicated by arrow 203), e.g., by a special mechanism, such as a clip, Velcro, snap-in, and / or locking mechanism, or e.g., by a screw connection (not shown). This further increases flexibility, as, for example, different parts with different air intake openings (e.g., Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B) can be provided, which can be adapted, for example, as needed and / or to a specific situation, test bench, or test specimen, or to specific outlet openings. Similarly, air ducts with different cross-sections, profiles, and / or configurations can be provided and / or combined with the second part 202B. The two-part design enables a modular system in which any parts, in particular any air inlet openings and any air ducts, can be connected to one another. However, it is also conceivable to design the conditioning device as a single piece, which simplifies the manufacturing process.

[0079] The heat exchanger 208 can be an air-to-fluid heat exchanger, preferably a cooler, which is arranged and / or can be arranged within the air duct 206. The heat exchanger 208 can preferably be arranged at a section substantially opposite the air inlet opening 204, in particular at an air outlet opening of the air duct.

[0080] The conditioning device according to the invention can comprise an intake device 210 which is configured to draw in the airflow 116, in particular thermal airflow, and in particular to convey and / or direct it to the air inlet opening 204, wherein in particular the intake device 210 can be a fan, as shown in the Fig. 2A-2C can be identified. Multiple intake devices can also be provided (not shown). The number of intake devices can be selected, for example, based on the cross-sectional shape of the air inlet opening and / or the air duct. With a rectangular cross-section, as mentioned above as an example, 2-3 intake devices can be used, which can be arranged, for example, side by side, particularly distributed across the duct cross-section. As mentioned above, the intake device can counteract, compensate for, or at least reduce resistance, such as air resistance, caused by the presence of the conditioning device or the air duct itself and / or by devices, equipment, and / or components arranged therein, such as sensors. Reference is made to the previous explanations in this regard.

[0081] The conditioning device 202 according to the invention can comprise one or more actuating devices 212, in particular one or more valves 212, and / or a coolant piping system. The actuating device 212 can, for example, be configured to control, monitor, adjust, and / or regulate the direction, flow, throughput, volumetric flow rate, and / or movement of a medium, for example, a coolant for the heat exchanger 208. As described in the Fig. 2A-2C (and also Fig. As can be seen in Figures 3 and 4A-C), the actuator 212 can be connected to the heat exchanger 208 via the coolant piping system. The coolant piping system can comprise at least one first coolant line 212A, which is configured to convey coolant to the heat exchanger 208, and, in particular, a second coolant line 212B, which is configured to discharge coolant from the heat exchanger 208. The first coolant line 212A and / or the second coolant line 212B is equipped with a coupling (marked by "X"), in particular a quick-release coupling, for connecting and / or disconnecting, in particular the conditioning device, to a test bench's own water supply (not shown). The coolant piping system and / or the coupling(s) allow the conditioning device to be easily connected to a test bench's own water supply, for example, using flexible lines (hoses).Thus, coolant can be accessed directly on site, i.e., the conditioning device 202 according to the invention can essentially move freely and / or be transported without having to transport coolant itself.

[0082] The conditioning device 202 according to the invention may further comprise: At least one sensor 214A, 214B, which can be arranged and / or is arranged within the air duct 206, wherein the at least one sensor 214A, 214B is configured to detect at least one parameter that is associated with the airflow 116 entering the air inlet opening 204, in particular a thermal airflow. The at least one sensor 214A, 214B can be a sensor for measuring an air temperature, an air velocity and / or an air mass flow rate.

[0083] Alternatively or additionally, the conditioning device 202 according to the invention can further comprise: at least one sensor 216 which can be arranged and / or is arranged within the coolant piping system, wherein the at least one sensor 216 is configured to detect at least one parameter which is assigned to a coolant of the heat exchanger 208.

[0084] At least one sensor 216 can, for example, be connected to or be connected to the first coolant line 212A and / or the second coolant line 212B (Note: In the Fig. 2A-2C (as well as Fig. 3-4C), however, this is only shown for line 212A, which is not to be understood as restrictive), in order to capture the at least one parameter associated with the coolant of the heat exchanger. The at least one parameter associated with the coolant of the heat exchanger can include one or more of: a temperature of the coolant before it enters the heat exchanger, and / or a temperature of the coolant after and / or while it exits the heat exchanger; and / or a mass flow rate of the coolant through the heat exchanger 208 and / or a pressure difference and / or a volume flow rate of the coolant.

[0085] The conditioning device according to the invention may further comprise: a control unit 218 for controlling and / or regulating the actuator 212 and / or the intake unit 210 (wiring in Fig. 2A-2C and 3-4C have been omitted for the sake of simplicity / clarity). The control unit 218 can, for example, ensure that the desired parameters and / or conditions, particularly thermal ones, are achieved and / or maintained in the test bench.

[0086] The control device 218 can be configured to measure the temperature of an airflow 116' exiting and / or discharged from the air duct 206, in particular from an air outlet opening of the air duct 206, especially a thermal airflow (see below). Fig. 3) based on the at least one parameter associated with the airflow 116 entering the air inlet opening 204, in particular the thermal airflow, at least one parameter assigned to the coolant of the heat exchanger 208, at least one measured quantity assigned to the test bench, and / or at least one target value assigned to the test bench.

[0087] Fig. Figure 3 shows an exemplary conditioning device 202 according to the invention (here, by way of example, the conditioning device 202 according to the invention). Fig. 2B (where reference is made here to the relevant explanations which relate to Fig. 3 apply equally) for the local dissipation of heat in a test rig 200. It should be noted that here, too, the test rig is as in the Fig. 1 would be suitable to recognize, which is clarified by the reference numbers 100 / 200 (whereby reference is made here to the relevant explanations which regarding Fig. 3 can essentially apply analogously).

[0088] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the test specimen 104 can have a heat source 108, for example, various drive components such as an (internal combustion) engine, a fuel cell, one or more electric motors, one or more batteries, a gearbox and / or a heat pump, or the like. In the present example, the heat source is an engine 108. During a test, e.g., under load or during operation, the engine 108 can generate, dissipate, and / or emit heat, which can increase the temperature, e.g., a predetermined, standard, and / or target temperature, within the test stand 100, 200 or the test cell 100, 200. A large proportion of the heat generated by the heat source 108, e.g., the engine 108, can be transferred, e.g., via lines, in particular cooling water lines (not shown), to a cooler 120, preferably one integrated with the heat source 108 or the engine 108.The heat is transferred to a fluidic, connected heat exchanger 120, in particular an air-to-water heat exchanger 120. The heat transferred by the cooler or heat exchanger 120 can in turn be transferred to an airflow 114 described herein to generate a thermal airflow 116, which can be distributed within the test rig 100 and / or influence, in particular increase, the temperature in the test cell. The airflow 114 can, for example, reach the cooler 120 and / or the engine 108 via an opening 122, e.g., a grille or radiator grille 122. It should be understood that several openings can also be provided in the test specimen 104, e.g., several radiator grilles. Furthermore, an optional airflow blower 110, e.g., in the form of a fan 112, is provided in the test rig, which can, for example, be positioned directly in front of the test specimen 104.The driving air blower 110 can, for example, be connected to an interface, in particular an automation device (not shown), of the test stand 200 and thereby controlled and / or actuated. The driving air blower 110 can generate an airflow 114 (in . Fig. (1 indicated by the arrows) generate an airflow that can enter through an opening 122 and interact with the heat source 108, e.g., the radiator 122 or the engine 108. For example, the airflow 114 can flow at least partially over a heat source 108 of the test specimen 104 and thereby absorb heat. For example, the airflow 114 can flow through the radiator 120 and / or the engine compartment 108 and / or exit at the underbody, e.g., at the outlet opening 118, as shown in Fig. 3 visible.

[0089] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the conditioning device 202 according to the invention is designed for the local removal of heat, in particular in, within and / or from a test stand 100, 200. The conditioning device 202 according to the invention can thus remove the heat, e.g. the heat generated by the test specimen or the heat source 108, (locally) precisely where it arises, for example directly at the outlet opening 118.

[0090] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the conditioning device 202 according to the invention can be portable. Therefore, it is possible to move it directly to the heat source 108 in order to, for example, find the optimal point of application for the airflow 116. A change in the heat input into the test cell can be quickly detected at the outlet 118, where the heated air leaves the heat source 108, so that a rapid or immediate reaction and / or rapid thermal conditioning can be achieved. This allows, among other things, high peak heats to be efficiently and / or effectively dissipated, thus relieving the test cell conditioning system and preventing an increase in the test cell temperature. The local dissipation also results in significantly higher dynamics and flexibility, as already described.

[0091] As in Fig. 3. As can be seen, the airflow 114 can flow through the engine compartment and / or exit at the underbody, e.g. at the outlet opening 118, whereby the airflow 114 carries a quantity of heat Q. zu This leads to the airflow 116, which is particularly thermal. By means of the conditioning device 202 according to the invention, this airflow 116 can be locally removed or equalized, thereby preventing the test cell or test stand 100 / 200 from heating by the amount of heat Q. zu minimized or essentially prevented.

[0092] As can be seen, the conditioning device 202 and / or the air inlet opening 204 can be configured to approach the heat source 108 and / or the outlet opening 118 of the test specimen, particularly locally, and / or to engage with it locally, thereby enabling the establishment of contact, for example, a touch contact and / or contact, and / or intervention in the airflow 116, particularly thermal airflow. A seal and / or strip, e.g., made of rubber, can also be provided on or around the air inlet opening 204 to establish contact, for example, to protect the test specimen 104 from damage.

[0093] The particularly thermal airflow 116, which passes through the test specimen, carries the heat quantity Q zuHaving absorbed heat, this amount of heat can be transferred to the heat exchanger 208, for example to the fluid (e.g., water or a special coolant) that can absorb it. This allows the airflow 116 entering the conditioning device 202, particularly the thermal airflow, to be cooled. This airflow can then exit the air duct 206 via the air outlet opening as an outgoing and / or discharged, particularly thermal, or cooled airflow 116', and either be discharged from the test rig or returned to it, e.g., the interior of the test cell. As already mentioned, this increases the efficiency of heat dissipation, since a large portion of the heat is essentially transferred at its source (e.g., at 118 in the air duct 206). Fig. 3) can be tapped, absorbed and / or dissipated, and essentially prevents heat from flowing past the air inlet opening 204 and spreading and / or distributing itself within the test cell 100 / 200. It should be noted that in the Fig. 3-4B the conditioning device according to Fig. 2B and 2C are shown, whereby it should be clear that other conditioning devices described herein can be used equally well, e.g. those in Fig. 2A shown or others.

[0094] In the Fig. Figures 4A-C show other exemplary test benches and / or test specimens for which the conditioning device described herein is also suitable and / or applicable. The above statements apply essentially analogously to these figures.

[0095] Fig. Figure 4A shows a test specimen 104' which only comprises part of the body of a vehicle. The tire is also shown (see test specimen 104 in Figure 4A). Fig. 3) was removed. Furthermore, in Fig. 4A shows a drive shaft of motor 108, which can lead to a load machine of the test bench, e.g., an electric one. In the Fig. 4A is therefore not a roller test bench like in Fig. 3. Nevertheless, the conditioning device 202 according to the invention can be used and applied equally, e.g. due to its advantages described herein.

[0096] Fig. 4B shows a temporary hood 126 for the engine compartment or the engine 108, which replaces the body part 104' made of Fig. 4A or as a replica thereof may be provided for accommodating the motor 108 or the engine compartment. An opening 122' (similar to the opening 122 from, for example, [reference to]) may be located on the hood 126. Fig. 4A) to allow the airflow 114 to enter and reach the motor 108 and / or the radiator 120, where it can absorb heat. One or more outlet openings 118 may also be provided on the hood 126, to which a conditioning device described herein, e.g., the conditioning device 202, can directly attach in order to receive the airflow 116, particularly the thermal airflow, as already described.

[0097] Fig. 4C essentially shows the design according to Fig. 4B, where the hood 126 has been removed, as indicated by the dashed lines. As in Fig. To identify 4C, the air inlet opening can even encompass or contain part of the test specimen, in this case, for example, the cooler 120, in particular at least partially or essentially completely. In the Fig. 4C is a different conditioning device, namely the one according to Fig. 2A shown, including the conditioning device according to Fig. 2B-C, or others that are usable / applicable. Fig. Figure 4C illustrates the advantages of the conditioning device according to the invention. This device can, for example, be connected directly to a heat source, such as the radiator 120, which receives heat from the engine 108, for example, via appropriate lines (not shown), and act upon it. Preferably, the air inlet opening is such that it can, for example, substantially completely surround or enclose the radiator. The conditioning device 202 can therefore act directly upon the heat source, i.e., the radiator 120, and can be adjusted, readjusted, set, and / or aligned as necessary to, for example, enable optimal air intake of the airflow into the conditioning device. The advantages and embodiments described previously in this context apply essentially accordingly.

[0098] Fig. Figure 5 shows a course or flow behavior of an exemplary, simulated incoming airflow 114 (such as the one from the Fig. 1-4C) and one, in particular a thermal airflow 116 (such as that from the Fig. 1-4C), which flows at least partially over a heat source 108, e.g. a cooler 120 and / or the motor 108. The corresponding test stand 100 / 200 has been omitted for the sake of simplicity.

[0099] As in Fig.As illustrated by example in Figure 5, a large proportion of the heat generated by the engine 108 can be transferred to the radiator 120, for example via pipes, particularly coolant pipes. The heat transferred by the radiator 120 or heat exchanger can in turn be transferred to the airflow 114 described herein, which enters through an opening 122, for example a radiator grille (or several), to generate a thermal airflow 116. This airflow can disperse within the test rig and / or influence, in particular increase, the temperature in the test cell. This thermal airflow 116 can be influenced, modified, and / or conditioned by means of the conditioning device, as already described above.

[0100] Although the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the disclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure can be developed without deviation from the basic scope thereof, the scope being determined by the following claims. REFERENCE MARK LIST 100, 200 test bench or test cell 102 Global Conditioning Device 102A Entrance 102B Outlet 103A Air volume or outflow 103B Air volume or inflow 104, 104' Candidate 105 air conditioning units 106 Roller or roller test stand 108 Drive or motor 110 air blowers 112 Fan 114 Airflow 116 Thermal airflow 116' Outgoing, discharged or cooled airflow 118 Exit opening 120 coolers 122, 122' Opening or radiator grille 124 Drive shaft 126 Hood as bodywork replacement 202 Local conditioning device 202A Part One 202B Part Two 203 Mechanism for connection 204 Air intake opening 206 Air duct 208 heat exchangers 210 Intake system 212 Actuator 212A Coolant line 212B Coolant line 214A Sensor 214B Sensor 216 Sensor 218 Control unit QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] 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

[0000] DE 102019009043 B3

[0008] DE 102009020601 A1

[0009] AT 6824 U2

[0011] EP 3293504 B1

[0012]

Claims

[1] Conditioning device for the local removal of heat in a test bench, in particular a vehicle test bench, for a test object, such as a vehicle or at least a part thereof, comprising: an air inlet opening which is designed to receive a, in particular thermal, air flow which flows at least partially over a heat source of the test object, and an air duct which is designed to discharge the, in particular thermal, air flow via a heat exchanger arranged therein, characterized by , that the conditioning device, in particular the air inlet opening, is movable with respect to the heat source of the test object and / or an outlet opening of the test object from which the, in particular thermal, air flow exits. [2] Conditioning device according to claim 1, wherein the conditioning device, in particular the air inlet opening, is designed to approach the heat source and / or the outlet opening of the test object, in particular locally, and / or in particular to engage therewith locally, wherein in particular the conditioning device is designed in two parts, with a first part which comprises the air inlet opening and a second part which comprises the air guide channel. [3] Conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a position, a distance and / or an orientation of the conditioning device, in particular of the air inlet opening, with respect to the heat source and / or the outlet opening of the test object is variable and / or adjustable. [4] Conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the conditioning device, in particular the air inlet opening, is movable, in particular positionable, in such a way that the, in particular thermal, air flow flows, preferably immediately after exiting the heat source and / or the outlet opening of the test object, in particular directly, into the air inlet opening. [5] Conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the conditioning device, in particular the air inlet opening, is movable in such a way that a contact, in particular a substantially direct contact, preferably a contact contact, can be established between the air inlet opening and the heat source and / or a portion of the test object on which the outlet opening is arranged. [6] Conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a size and / or shape of the air inlet opening is adapted to a size and / or shape of the outlet opening of the test object. [7] Conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the air inlet opening has a larger diameter and / or cross-section than the outlet opening of the test object, wherein in particular the air inlet opening is dimensioned to substantially completely surround the outlet opening of the test object. [8] Conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the conditioning device is a portable and / or portable, preferably mobile, conditioning device. [9] Conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the air duct has a curved, stepped and / or bent shape at least in sections. [10] Conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the air guide channel is formed substantially in a trough-like manner in the region of the air inlet opening. [11] Conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the heat exchanger, in particular an air-fluid heat exchanger, is preferably a cooler which is arranged within the air duct, preferably at a section substantially opposite the air inlet opening, in particular at an air outlet opening of the air duct. [12] Conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: an intake device which is designed to attract the, in particular thermal, air flow, in particular to convey and / or guide it to the air inlet opening, wherein in particular the intake device is a fan. [13] Conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: an actuating device, in particular a valve, and / or a coolant guidance system comprising at least a first coolant line configured to convey coolant to the heat exchanger and, in particular, a second coolant line configured to discharge coolant from the heat exchanger, wherein in particular the first coolant line and / or the second coolant line is equipped with a coupling, in particular a plug-in coupling, for coupling and / or uncoupling, in particular the conditioning device, to a test bench's own water supply. [14] Conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: at least one sensor which can be arranged and / or is arranged within the air duct, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect at least one parameter which is associated with the air flow entering the air inlet opening, in particular the thermal air flow. [15] Conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims 13-14, further comprising: at least one sensor that can be arranged and / or is arranged within the coolant guidance system, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect at least one parameter that is associated with a coolant of the heat exchanger. [16] Conditioning device according to claim 14, wherein the at least one sensor is a sensor for measuring an air temperature, an air velocity, a pressure difference, a volume flow and / or an air mass flow. [17] Conditioning device according to claim 15, wherein the at least one parameter associated with the coolant of the heat exchanger comprises: a temperature of the coolant before it enters the heat exchanger, and / or a temperature of the coolant after and / or while it exits the heat exchanger; and / or a mass flow of the coolant through the heat exchanger, and / or a pressure difference and / or a volume flow of the coolant. [18] Conditioning device according to any one of claims 10-17, further comprising: a control device for controlling and / or regulating the actuating device and / or the intake device, wherein the control device is communicatively connected to an interface, in particular an automation device, of the test bench for the exchange of measured variables and / or setpoints, in particular those assigned to the test bench. [19] Conditioning device according to claim 18, wherein the control device is arranged to control the intake device in such a way that pressure resistances caused by the conditioning device, in particular the air duct and / or devices arranged therein, are compensated. [20] Conditioning device according to one of claims 18-19, wherein the control device is arranged to control the suction device such that - at least one speed of the, in particular thermal, air flow within the air duct substantially corresponds to a speed of a thermal air flow without the conditioning device, in particular without the air duct and / or devices arranged therein. [21] Conditioning device according to one of claims 14-20, wherein the control device is arranged to determine a temperature of an air flow emerging from the air duct, in particular from an air outlet opening of the air duct, and / or discharged, in particular thermal, on the basis of the at least one parameter associated with the air flow entering the air inlet opening, in particular thermal, at least one parameter associated with the coolant of the heat exchanger, at least one measured variable associated with the test bench, and / or at least one setpoint assigned to the test bench. [22] Test bench, in particular vehicle test bench, comprising: a conditioning device according to any one of claims 1-21 and a test object, such as a vehicle or at least part of it. [23] Use of a conditioning device according to one of claims 1-21 for the local dissipation of heat within a test bench, in particular a vehicle test bench, in particular according to claim 22.