Holding device, heater and method

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a holding device for a heating element, a heating device with a holding device and a method.

[0002] Temperature fluctuations in electrical cabinets, particularly the change between day and night temperatures, cause condensation, which, together with dust and aggressive gases, can lead to corrosion. This, along with persistently extreme climatic conditions, increases the risk of operational failures due to leakage currents or flashovers. It is therefore essential to ensure consistently optimal climatic conditions for the proper functioning of the components within the electrical cabinet. This is achieved using heaters or fan heaters, which must meet high standards of reliability and durability.

[0003] Such heating devices are equipped, for example, with a mica heating element or with electric heating elements based on PTC semiconductor technology. Other heating elements are also possible. The mountings for such heating elements must ensure good heat transfer and secure fixation, while also allowing for easy installation. Frequent temperature changes can lead to material fatigue, resulting in reduced contact between the heating element and the heat sink and consequently decreased heat flow. If the contact surface fails, the heating element can overheat, leading to heating failure.

[0004] An example of such a heating device with a PTC heating element is described in DE 10 2006 018 151 A1. Here, the heating element is arranged in a centrally located recess of a heat exchanger. The heating element rests flat against the inner surfaces of the recess. The heating element is held in position by bending the ends of the heat exchanger's side walls inwards during assembly using pressing tools. This ensures that the inner surfaces lie so closely against the heating element that the element is clamped firmly in place, thus guaranteeing heat transfer.

[0005] Plastic deformation and exposure to temperature result in dislocations in the microstructure. The buckling of the side walls represents plastic deformation of the material, which, in combination with frequent temperature changes, impairs the holding function. Replacing the heating element is not possible due to the type of mounting, which results in the side walls being permanently plastically deformed.

[0006] From DE 10 2011 054 752 A1, a holding body for a heating element is known. The known holding body has a shaft with two opposing shaft walls in which a heating element is arranged. The shaft walls are separated by side slots. The holding body further comprises two clamping sections, each arranged laterally on the holding body. The clamping sections are curved and extend essentially in one direction perpendicular to the shaft walls. By compressing the clamping sections towards the side slots, the distance between the shaft walls for arranging a heating element can be increased or decreased. The force required to open the shaft is applied from the outside.

[0007] With the existing mounting bracket, the shaft can be easily enlarged to accommodate a heating element. To further improve ease of installation, it is desirable to modify, and in particular increase, the width of the mounting gap.

[0008] The invention is therefore based on the objective of providing a holding device that enables secure mounting of the heating element and simplified assembly. Furthermore, the invention is based on the objective of providing a heating device with such a holding device and a method for manufacturing such a holding device.

[0009] According to the invention, the problem is solved with regard to the holding device is solved by the subject matter of claim 1, the heating device by the subject matter of claim 14, the method by the subject matter of claim 15.

[0010] Specifically, the problem is solved by a holding device for at least one heating element, in particular for a PTC heating element or a mica heating element, comprising at least two opposing holding elements spaced apart from each other by a gap extending along a longitudinal direction of the holding device and adapted to accommodate at least one heating element, and a heat transfer body with at least two chambers, each forming an inner region through which a gaseous medium can flow, wherein the opposing holding elements are arranged between the two chambers and the gap connects the inner regions of the chambers.According to the invention, at least one tensile profile is arranged on at least one outer surface of the retaining elements, which can be subjected to a tensile force in order to enlarge the gap for receiving the at least one heating element, wherein the chambers have chamber walls which form lever arms at least partially, wherein the lever arms are elastically deformable at least partially by the tensile force and are connected to the retaining elements in such a way that the at least one heating element is subjected to a holding force in the installed state.

[0011] When a heating element is referred to below, multiple heating elements are also included (at least one heating element).

[0012] The invention has the advantage that the chamber walls form lever arms which exert a strong and constant holding force on the heating element through leverage. The magnitude of the holding force is adjusted by a person skilled in the art through a suitable selection of the gap dimensions and geometries of the lever arms. The tension profile facilitates the installation of the heating element because the lever arms can be elastically deformed by a tensile force acting on the profile, thus widening the gap between the holding elements. The heating element, or multiple heating elements, can then be easily inserted into the gap. When the tensile force is released and the elastically deformed lever arms are relieved of stress, they return to their resting state. In other words, the holding elements are in a mechanically relaxed state at rest.Due to the heating element being larger than the gap width in the force-free rest state, an elastic deformation of the lever arms remains, so that the heating element in the gap is subjected to the desired holding force.

[0013] In the assembled state, the heating element is arranged in the gap and clamped or clamped between the retaining elements. In the unassembled state, the gap is open. It is clarified that the invention claims both the retaining device in the unassembled state, i.e., without the mounted heating element, and in the assembled state, i.e., with the heating element. In the assembled state, the combination of the heating element with the retaining device according to the invention is also referred to and claimed as a heating device.

[0014] Several lever arm designs are possible, suitable for applying a holding force to the heating element. The various exemplary designs are described in more detail below.

[0015] The chambers are mechanically coupled. The lever arms formed by the chamber walls of each chamber are connected to the retaining elements. Since the retaining elements are located between the chambers, the lever arms engage on both sides of the retaining elements. The movement of the retaining elements required for assembly is made possible by the gap connecting the inner areas of the chambers. In other words, the gap extends from one chamber to the other and is located in the junction area between the two chambers. This allows the retaining elements to move laterally relative to each other, thus making the gap width variable. Furthermore, the arrangement of the gap between the chambers has the advantage of ensuring good heat transfer from the heating element(s) to the inner areas of the chambers and the medium flowing within them during operation.Since the heat transfer body dissipates heat to the environment, it can also be called a heat sink.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the holding device has a constriction in the area of ​​the connection between the two chambers. The constriction, relative to the cross-section of the holding device, has a smaller dimension than the largest dimension of at least one chamber, and in particular of both chambers, in the same direction. In other words, the chambers are wider than the area of ​​the holding device where the chambers are connected. In this embodiment, the gap is located in the area of ​​the constriction.

[0017] The chambers of the heat transfer body have multiple chamber walls. For example, each chamber may have at least two chamber walls that define its respective interior. The two chamber walls are arranged opposite each other. More than two chamber walls per chamber are possible, with at least some, and in particular all, of the chamber walls acting as lever arms. The shape of the interior corresponds to the inner contour of the chamber walls.

[0018] The retaining elements are preferably not directly connected to or in contact with each other. Rather, the retaining elements are connected to the chamber walls, which in turn are connected to each other to form the chambers. Thus, the retaining elements are mechanically connected to each other via the chambers, or rather the chamber walls, forming a gap that extends between the retaining elements from one chamber to the next. Since the chamber walls are designed as lever arms and are elastically deformable, the retaining elements can be subjected to a lever force by virtue of their arrangement between the chambers.

[0019] Specifically, the holding elements can be moved in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the holding device by the tensile force acting on the tensile profile.

[0020] In other words, the retaining elements can be moved elastically towards and away from each other by an external force. If no external force acts on the retaining elements and no heating element is positioned between them, the retaining elements are in a rest position.

[0021] The gap is designed to accommodate one or more heating elements. This means that, when assembled, one or more heating elements are positioned within the gap. The width of the gap is greater with a heating element than without. In other words, the width of the heating element is greater than the width of the gap when the retaining elements are in their resting position.

[0022] The chamber walls form lever arms that, in the assembled state or during operation, exert a force on each of the two retaining elements in the direction of the opposite retaining element. For this purpose, the chamber walls are preferably connected directly or indirectly to a retaining element. More precisely, in the assembled state, the chamber walls exhibit mechanical stress, which results in the force exerted on the retaining elements and thus holding the heating element. In other words, the chamber walls are elastically deformed in the installed state when a heating element is positioned in the gap. The force with which the heating element is held in the assembled state can also be described as a holding force or a restoring force. The magnitude of the force depends, among other things, on the length of the chamber walls or the lever arms. Further factors influencing the holding force or restoring force include...Factors influencing clamping force include the material of the holding device, the modulus of elasticity, and the geometry of the chamber walls, for example, stiffening ribs or material accumulations.

[0023] The tension profile serves as an assembly aid and improves the cooling function of the holding device by increasing the surface area of ​​the heat transfer element. To position the heating element in the gap, especially to insert it, it is necessary to increase the width of the gap. This is achieved by elastically deforming the chamber walls of the heat transfer element. The tension profile serves as an attachment point for a tool or aid, allowing the necessary tensile force to be applied to widen the gap.

[0024] The holding device according to the invention is advantageous because a heating element can be mounted without plastic deformation of the holding device. This means that a heating element can be removed or replaced if necessary. Additionally, the heating element remains under tension when heated, resulting in improved heat dissipation through continuous mechanical contact and the consequent low thermal resistance.

[0025] This allows the heating element to be positioned more easily between the holding elements. Furthermore, a greater holding force can be achieved. In particular, the lever arms of the heat transfer elements enable a high holding force and an expanded cooling surface. This ensures close contact between the heating element and the holding device, guaranteeing good heat transfer. The chamber walls also allow for an advantageously distributed stress distribution. This favorable stress distribution prevents localized mechanical stress peaks that could otherwise lead to material failure, especially cracks or fractures, or a reduction in holding force. The shape is designed to prevent plastic deformation, even in localized areas. The holding device is designed to maintain a constant holding force during operation over extended periods, thus ensuring good heat transfer and cooling.This function is supported by the lever arms and preferably by the advantageously distributed tension distribution of the lever arms.

[0026] Further embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the chamber walls of the two chambers each have essentially the same shape; in particular, the chamber walls form lever arms of equal length, and the retaining elements are arranged transversely centrally between the chambers. If the chamber walls have the same shape, a heating element, when installed, is subjected to a uniform holding force from both sides by the lever arms. This enables uniformly distributed heat transfer.

[0028] In another preferred embodiment, the chamber walls of the two chambers have different shapes; in particular, the chamber walls form lever arms of different lengths, so that the retaining elements are arranged offset between the chambers in a transverse direction from the center. This allows the holding force exerted on the heating element in the installed state to be varied. Furthermore, this enables various configurations of the heat transfer body. For example, one of the two chambers can have a smaller volume than the other.

[0029] It is possible to design the tensile profile in which it is offset in a transverse direction from the center of the outer surface of the retaining element. Alternatively, it is possible to design the tensile profile in a transverse direction centrally on the outer surface of the retaining element. By varying the arrangement of the tensile profile, the point of application for the tensile force required to enlarge the gap can be varied. It is also conceivable that several tensile profiles are arranged on the retaining elements.

[0030] It is possible to design the chamber walls in which they each have a curved cross-sectional geometry, particularly a circular or oval geometry, at least in sections. The curved, especially circular or oval, geometry promotes a homogeneous stress distribution in the chamber walls, thus avoiding mechanical stress concentrations.

[0031] In a further particularly preferred embodiment, the retaining elements and / or the tension profile have at least one cooling element, in particular a cooling element designed as an extension or rib. This further increases the surface area of ​​the heat transfer body and achieves improved heat transfer or cooling of the retaining device.

[0032] It is particularly advantageous if the tensile profile incorporates a cooling element to improve its cooling properties. In other words, the tensile profile combines the functions of an assembly aid and a cooling element. To achieve this, the tensile profile exhibits an I-shaped, E-shaped, L-shaped, and / or T-shaped geometry in at least some sections of its cross-section. These geometries are particularly advantageous for combining the functions of the tensile profile as both an assembly aid and a cooling element.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the retaining elements each have an inner surface that defines the gap, with at least one recess extending longitudinally along the heat transfer body on at least one of these inner surfaces. The recess serves as a receptacle for a frame of the heating element. The frame provides better retention of the heating element. In particular, it prevents the heating element from shifting in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the heat transfer body. The frame is, for example, made of plastic and is arranged at least partially around the heating element.

[0034] It is advantageous if at least one chamber wall has at least one receptacle for a fastening element on an outer surface. The receptacle can be designed, for example, as a guide and / or a hole for a screw. The fastening element can be, for example, a clip, a rail, or a hook. The fastening element and the receptacle preferably form a detachable fastening. This allows the holding device to be easily arranged in an enclosure, particularly a control cabinet, and removed or replaced as needed.

[0035] It is further advantageous if at least one retaining element includes a bore extending longitudinally along the heat transfer body. The bore is preferably located in the area of ​​the retaining element or the tension profile. The bore allows for material savings and reduces the weight of the retaining device. Furthermore, the bore can include a thread, for example, for a grounding screw. The bore also increases the surface area of ​​the retaining device, allowing more heat to be dissipated to the surroundings.

[0036] In a further embodiment, the chamber walls each have at least a section with an angular cross-sectional geometry, in particular a triangular or polygonal geometry. Among other things, the stiffness of the chamber walls can be influenced by an angular geometry.

[0037] Furthermore, it is possible for the chamber walls to have both curved and angular geometries in sections. In other words, the curved and angular designs of the chamber walls and the resulting advantages can be combined.

[0038] It is particularly advantageous if the holding device has at least one plane of symmetry extending longitudinally. This ensures that the holding elements are subjected to a uniform force through the chamber walls. Alternatively, the holding device may have two planes of symmetry, each extending longitudinally and arranged orthogonally to one another. In other words, the holding device can have two axes of symmetry in cross-section.

[0039] In one embodiment, at least one of the chamber walls has external cooling elements, in particular external cooling elements designed as extensions or ribs, which are arranged on an outer surface of the chamber wall.

[0040] In a further embodiment, at least one of the chamber walls has internal cooling elements, in particular internal cooling elements designed as extensions or ribs, which are arranged on an inner surface of the chamber wall.

[0041] The inner and outer cooling elements preferably extend over the entire length of the holding device. These elements increase the surface area of ​​the heat transfer body, thereby improving its heat dissipation capacity. Multiple cooling elements can be arranged on a single chamber wall. The cooling elements can have different shapes.

[0042] In another embodiment, the chamber walls have sections with varying material thicknesses. Material thickness refers to the thickness of the chamber wall material. Specifically, the material thickness is greater in the area closest to the retaining element than in the area furthest from it. This design improves the stiffness and elastic deformability of the chamber walls and the distribution of mechanical stresses.

[0043] To facilitate simple manufacturing, the retaining elements and the heat transfer body are designed as a single piece, specifically monolithically. Furthermore, this design eliminates any joining or connection points where breakage could occur.

[0044] Preferably, the holding device is adapted so that several sequentially arranged heating elements are positioned between the holding elements and each is subjected to a holding force. This means that several heating elements can be arranged in the gap.

[0045] In one embodiment, the holding device has a notch extending orthogonally to its longitudinal direction to allow for the individual clamping of various sequentially arranged heating elements. This means that tolerances are compensated for individually for each heating element by the individual clamping sections, thus applying ideal clamping force. In other words, manufacturing tolerances of the heating elements can be compensated for, ensuring that all heating elements are subjected to the same holding force. The notch divides the heat transfer body into individual sections or segments, allowing for individual gap widths in each section. Each section or segment forms its own holding area for a single heating element.When several heating elements are arranged in series, a notch is formed between each pair of heating elements, so that heating elements with manufacturing-related different tolerances and thus different heights are still held with the same holding force.

[0046] The cut is preferably made with a circular saw. Other cutting tools, such as a band saw, are also possible. Using a circular saw results in low local stresses, while maintaining clamping force and elastic deformability. When making the cut with a circular saw, the saw is positioned centrally on the holding device, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. This creates an arc-shaped cut with the deepest point in the area of ​​the gap. The cutting depth decreases towards the outside.

[0047] The holding device can therefore consist of, for example, one or more individual holding segments and is preferably manufactured in one piece with at least four lever arms and / or the corresponding multiples of the holding segments.

[0048] To improve heat transfer to the environment, the holding device has a profile on at least part of the outer surface of the heat transfer element. The profile is preferably in the form of grooves or ribs. Other shapes are possible.

[0049] A subordinate aspect of the invention relates to a heating device with a holding device and at least one heating element, in particular a PTC heating element or a mica heating element, wherein the heating element is arranged between the holding elements.

[0050] A further subordinate aspect of the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a heating device in which a holding device according to one of the embodiments described above is manufactured or provided, wherein the opposing holding elements are moved away from each other in opposite directions by applying an external force, so that the width of the gap increases, at least one heating element is arranged in the gap and subsequently the external force is removed, so that the width of the gap decreases and the heating element is subjected to a force and held by the lever arms.

[0051] The invention will be explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0052] Showing: Fig. 1 a perspective view of an embodiment of a holding device according to the invention; Fig. 2 a cross-section of the holding device according to Fig. 1 Fig. 3 a perspective view of a further embodiment of a holding device according to the invention; Fig. 4 a cross-section of the holding device according to Fig. 3 Fig. 5 a perspective view of a further embodiment of a holding device according to the invention; Fig. 6 a cross-section of the holding device according to Fig. 5 Fig. 7 a perspective view of a further embodiment of a holding device according to the invention; Fig. 8 a cross-section of the holding device according to Fig. 7 Fig. 9 a perspective view of a further embodiment of a holding device according to the invention; Fig. 10 a cross-section of the holding device according to Fig. 9; Fig. 11 a perspective view of a further embodiment of a holding device according to the invention; Fig. 12 a cross-section of the holding device according to Fig. 11 ; Fig. 13 a cross-section of the holding device according to Fig. 1 with a heating element without a frame; Fig. 14 a cross-section of the holding device according to Fig. 1 with a heating element with frame; Fig. 15 a perspective view of a further embodiment of a holding device according to the invention; Fig. 16 a cross-section of the holding device according to Fig. 15 ; Fig. 17 a perspective view of a further embodiment of a holding device according to the invention; Fig. 18 a cross-section of the holding device according to Fig. 17 Fig. 19 a perspective view of a further embodiment of a holding device according to the invention; Fig. 20 a cross-section of the holding device according to Fig. 19, which represents two states; Fig. 21 a perspective view of a further embodiment of a holding device according to the invention with a notch; Fig. 22 a cross-section of a further embodiment of a holding device according to the invention with a notch; Fig. 23 a perspective side view of the holding device according to Fig. 22 Fig. 24 shows a side view of interconnected PTC heating elements; Fig. 25 shows a top view of interconnected PTC heating elements according to Fig. 24 .

[0053] Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 Figure 1 shows a holding device 10 with a heat transfer body 16. The heat transfer body 16 comprises two chambers 14 and two holding elements 11.

[0054] The chambers 14 have chamber walls K'. In the present embodiment, each chamber 14 has two chamber walls K' arranged opposite each other. One of the chamber walls K' is connected to a retaining element 11 and to another of the chamber walls K'.

[0055] The retaining elements 11 are arranged opposite each other and between the chambers 14. The chambers 14 are each open longitudinally at their axial ends to allow a gaseous medium to flow through them.

[0056] The longitudinal direction is therefore understood to be the direction in which the chambers 14 can be permeated by a gaseous medium.

[0057] A transverse direction is understood to be a direction that extends orthogonally to the longitudinal direction or the flow direction.

[0058] The retaining elements 11 are spaced apart from each other by a gap 12. The gap 12 is bounded by inner surfaces of the retaining elements 11. The inner surfaces are adapted to the heating element 13 to be inserted. The inner surfaces run parallel to each other, are arranged opposite each other, and face each other. The shape of the inner surfaces can be varied if necessary. Each retaining element 11 has two recesses 18 on one inner surface. The recesses 18 extend along the entire longitudinal direction of the retaining device 10.

[0059] The retaining elements 11 each have a tensile profile 17 on one outer surface. The outer surfaces face away from the gap 12. Each tensile profile 17 has a bore 20 extending along the entire longitudinal direction of the heat transfer body 14. Versions without bores are possible. The tensile profile 17 has two angled webs. The angled webs point away from each other. This means that the angled sections of the webs extend in opposite directions. The webs can also be described as having an L-shaped cross-section. Alternatively, other shapes of the tensile profiles 17 are possible.

[0060] The shape of the holding device 10 is essentially figure eight. The holding device 10 has a plane of symmetry that runs orthogonally to the longitudinal direction. More precisely, the plane of symmetry runs parallel to the slit 12.

[0061] The chamber walls K' are curved towards the retaining elements 11. Each chamber wall K' has a convex curvature. The convex curvature of the chamber walls K' points in the direction in which the retaining element 11, which is connected to the respective chamber wall K', can be moved to enlarge the gap 12. In other words, the convex curvature of a chamber wall K' is directed away from an opposite chamber wall K' that belongs to the same chamber 14.

[0062] Preferably, the arcs of the curved chamber walls K' lie on the same straight line and / or are parallel to each other. Furthermore, preferably, the chamber walls K' have a central angle between 150° and 180°.

[0063] The heat transfer elements 14 are essentially hollow or oval in cross-section. The hollow or oval cross-section of the heat transfer elements results in the figure-eight shape described above. Alternatively and / or additionally, the heat transfer elements can have polygonal elements, at least in sections. The chambers 14 each have an inner region I'. The two inner regions I' are connected to each other by the gap 12.

[0064] The chamber walls K' have external and internal cooling elements 22, 23. The cooling elements 22, 23 can also be described as surface extensions.

[0065] The outer and inner cooling elements 22, 23 are designed as fins. The outer cooling elements 22 extend radially outwards, and the inner cooling elements 23 extend radially into the chamber 14. The fins of the outer and inner cooling elements 22, 23 each extend along the entire longitudinal direction of the heat transfer body 14. Alternatively, other configurations or a different number of cooling elements are possible. In an alternative embodiment, it is possible for both chambers 14 to have outer and inner cooling elements 22, 23 (see Figure 1). Figures 3 to 12 ).

[0066] The chamber 14, which includes internal cooling elements 23, has a receptacle 19 for a fastening element. The receptacle 19 is located on an outer surface of the chamber wall K'. It is positioned on the chamber wall K' facing away from the retaining elements 11 and extends longitudinally along the retaining device 10. The receptacle 19 includes a guide extending longitudinally along its entire length. An opening, for example a bore, is located between the guide and the opening. A hook-shaped clip, for example, can be inserted into the guide and fastened through the bore with a screw. Other embodiments of the receptacle 19 are conceivable.

[0067] The retaining element is shaped or designed in such a way that elastic deformation is possible or even encouraged. For this purpose, the chamber walls K' are adapted to form a kind of clamping jaw. This maintains the tension even under the influence of heat and does not reduce the heating power or heat flow. This improves the heat transfer function.

[0068] More precisely, the chamber walls K' have a first and a second end. The first end of a chamber wall K' is connected to a retaining element 11, and the second end is connected to an opposite chamber wall K'. The lever arm corresponds to the distance between the first end and the second end.

[0069] The dividing line of the chamber walls K' of the heat transfer body 16 forms a mirror plane. The mirror plane in Fig. 1The plane runs centrally through the gap 12 and parallel to the inner surfaces of the retaining elements 11. In other words, the connecting ends of the opposing chamber walls K' of the two chambers 14 lie on the mirror plane. Alternatively, the plane forms the dividing line between the chamber walls K' of a chamber, running centrally through the gap 12. In the described embodiment, this plane corresponds to the mirror plane.

[0070] The embodiment according to the Figures 3 and 4 The embodiment essentially corresponds to the previously described embodiment. Figures 3 and 4 In contrast to the previously described embodiment, this embodiment does not have a bore in the tension profile 17. Instead, the two L-shaped webs facing away from each other are spaced apart by a gap.

[0071] The holding devices 10, which are in the Figures 3 and 4 as in the Figures 5 to 12The embodiments shown do not include a receptacle 19 for a fastening element. The holding devices 10 mentioned therefore have two planes of symmetry, each extending parallel to the longitudinal direction of the holding device 10 and orthogonal to each other. In other words, the embodiments mentioned have two axes of symmetry in cross-section.

[0072] The embodiment according to the Figures 5 and 6 differs from the embodiment according to the Figures 3 and 4 also through the train profile 17. The train profile 17 according to the Figures 5 and 6 It is T-shaped.

[0073] The embodiment according to the Figures 7 and 8 This embodiment differs from the previous embodiments in that the tensile profile 17 has an E-shaped geometry. More precisely, three additional extensions are arranged on a T-shaped geometry. These extensions give the tensile profile 17 an improved heat transfer function.

[0074] The embodiment according to the Figures 9 and 10 essentially corresponds to the embodiment according to the Figures 3 and 4 The profile 17 according to the embodiment of the Figures 9 and 10 It has an additional rib between the L-shaped struts. This additional rib forms an extra cooling element 21.

[0075] The embodiment according to the Figures 11 and 12 The device features circular heat transfer elements 14. More precisely, the chamber walls K' form two circular chambers 14. The thickness of the chamber walls K' is greater in the area of ​​the retaining elements 11 than in the area furthest from the retaining elements 11. On the outside of the retaining elements 11, five additional cooling elements 21 are arranged parallel to each other and extend away from the retaining elements 11.

[0076] This design improves the stiffness of the chamber walls K' and is advantageous for the mechanical stress distribution in the chamber walls K'.

[0077] In a circular heat transfer body 14, the length of the lever arm of the chamber walls K' corresponds essentially to the diameter of the chambers 14.

[0078] In contrast to the previous embodiments, the circular chambers 14 have eleven internal cooling elements 23.

[0079] The holding device 10 according to the Figures 13 and 14 corresponds to the one in the Figures 1 and 2 described holding device 10. In the Figures 13 and 14 Each heating element 13 is arranged in the gap 12 between the retaining elements 11.

[0080] The exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 13 differs from the embodiment according to Fig. 14 in that the heating element 13 in Fig. 13 It has no frame. The heating element 13 in Fig. 14In contrast, it has a frame. The frame is arranged in the recesses 18 of the retaining elements 11.

[0081] The frame is part of a support element on which the heating element, for example a PTC heating element, is arranged or pre-mounted. The frame interacts with the recesses 18. The recesses 18 form a guide in which the heating element 13 is guided when installed or can be inserted for assembly. The recess 18 thus enables easy installation of the heating element 13.

[0082] In Fig. 15 and Fig. 16Another embodiment is shown. This embodiment has two axes of symmetry in cross-section. The chambers 14 are mushroom-shaped. Specifically, the inner contour of the chamber walls K' of the chambers 14 is mushroom-shaped or umbrella-shaped. The chamber walls K' each have a curved or arc-shaped section and a polygonal or angular section. The curved section is convex in a direction away from the gap 12.

[0083] The curved section is arranged transversely on the outside. The polygonal section is arranged between the curved section and the retaining element 11 and is connected to them, in particular in one piece. The curved section and the polygonal section together form a chamber wall K'. Specifically, the curved section and the polygonal section form a lever arm 15.

[0084] The curved section projects beyond the retaining element 11, which is connected to the corresponding chamber wall K'. The polygonal section tapers towards the retaining elements 11. Furthermore, the polygonal section has a step that is inclined in a direction away from the central longitudinal axis. The geometry of the chamber walls increases the stiffness of the heat transfer body 16. This enables a strong holding force and good heat transfer.

[0085] Two external cooling elements 22 are arranged on each of the outer surfaces of the chamber walls K'. Thus, the heat transfer body 16 has a total of eight external cooling elements 22. The external cooling elements 22 are designed as fins that extend in the longitudinal direction of the heat transfer body 16.

[0086] The retaining elements 11 each have three recesses 18 on their inner surfaces to hold one or more heating elements 13. The tension profile 17, which is arranged on each of the retaining elements 11, has a T-shaped geometry.

[0087] The Figures 17 and 18 Figure 1 shows an embodiment in which the chambers 14 have a semicircular cross-section. The chamber walls K' have a correspondingly curved or arc-shaped cross-section. The chamber walls K' are connected to the retaining elements 11 by means of connecting webs 25. The chamber walls K' have open axial ends in cross-section, each projecting beyond one of the connecting webs 25. The open ends of two opposing chamber walls K' form the tensile profile 17. In other words, in the embodiment shown here, the chamber walls K' transition into the tensile profile.

[0088] The retaining elements 11 have a form-fitting contour on their inner surfaces to improve the retention of the heating element 13. This contour is complementary to each other. The form-fitting contour is formed by lateral projections on the inside of one retaining element 11 and corresponding lateral recesses on the opposite retaining element 11, each extending longitudinally along the heat transfer body.

[0089] In the Figures 19 and 20 Figure 16 shows a heat transfer body with triangular chambers 14 in cross-section. The chamber walls K' of the heat transfer body 16 form an isosceles triangle in cross-section, with two of the chamber walls K' of one of the chambers 14 each forming a leg and one of the chamber walls K' of one of the chambers 14 forming a base of the triangle. The chamber walls K' forming the legs are each connected to a retaining element 11.

[0090] Fig. 20shows two different states of the holding device 10 according to Fig. 19 The solid line shows the state of the holding device 10 when an external tensile force acts on the tensile profile 17 and the gap 12 is enlarged. This state is referred to as the deformed state. The dashed line shows the state when no external tensile force acts on the tensile profile 17. This state is referred to as the rest state.

[0091] In the deformed state of the holding device 10, the chamber walls K' are elastically deformed and the gap 12 is enlarged compared to the rest state of the holding device 10. This means that the distance between the opposing holding elements 11 is increased. The chamber walls K', which each form the base of the isosceles triangle, are straight in the rest state. In the deformed state, these chamber walls K' exhibit a concave curvature in the direction of the holding elements 11.

[0092] Fig. 21shows an embodiment that corresponds to that shown in the Fig. 1 similar. The illustrated embodiment additionally shows a profile on the outside of the heat transfer body 16. The profile makes it possible to dissipate more heat to the environment.

[0093] The illustrated holding devices 10 can be adapted by mechanical machining to accommodate several heating elements 13. The heating elements 13 are preferably arranged in a row in the longitudinal direction of the heat transfer body 16.

[0094] Examples of such machined holding devices 10 are shown in the Fig. 21 as in the Figures 22 and 23 shown.

[0095] On the outside of the holding device 10 according to Fig. 21Two incisions 24, extending in a transverse direction and spaced apart longitudinally, are arranged. The incisions 24 extend only over one half of the holding device 10. Specifically, only one holding element 11 has the incisions 24. The incisions 24 define separate clamping areas 28.

[0096] In Fig. 22 The figure shows how the cut 24 is made using a circular saw. It can be seen that the circular saw is placed centrally on the holding element 11. The cut 24 extends to the gap 12. Fig. 23 shows a perspective side view of cut 24 according to Fig. 22 .

[0097] The notches 24 allow the gap 12 to vary in size along its length. This enables improved holding performance across the entire holding device 10. Furthermore, different heating elements 13 can be arranged within the gap 12, as the notches 24 create several longitudinally arranged, but mechanically separated, clamping areas 28 or segments. This allows for the application of a precisely controlled holding force to each heating element 13. Thus, each heating element 13 can be subjected to an ideal holding force. The separate clamping areas 28 also allow for the compensation of tolerance differences.

[0098] The holding device 10 can therefore provide any number of clamping ranges 28 for any number of heating elements 13 and can be manufactured in one piece or monolithically.

[0099] Fig. 24 and Fig. 25Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a heating element arrangement with a sequential design, suitable for a holding device 10 with multiple clamping ranges 28. The heating element arrangement comprises three PTC heating elements 13 arranged in series. Each PTC heating element 13 is connected to the adjacent PTC heating element 13 by a metal strip 26. The heating element 13 includes a conductor 27 for connection to a power source.

[0100] The following section explains in more detail the function of the holding device described above. In the assembled or installed state of the holding device 10, the holding elements 11 hold the heating element 13, which is located in the gap 12 between the holding elements 11. The heating element 13 is in close contact with the inner surfaces of the holding elements 11. This close contact allows heat to be transferred to the heat transfer body 16 during operation.

[0101] The heat transfer body 16 serves to dissipate heat to the environment, thus ensuring constant climatic conditions in a control cabinet, for example, and in particular preventing the formation of condensation. The external and internal cooling elements 22, 23, as well as the additional cooling elements 21, increase the surface area of ​​the heat transfer body 14 and further improve this property.

[0102] To install the heating element 13, the retaining elements 11 are moved apart by applying an assembly force, in particular an external tensile force. This increases the width of the gap 12. The heating element 13 is then inserted into the widened gap 12. When the assembly force is applied, the chamber walls K' are elastically deformed. The assembly force is transferred to the retaining elements 11 by a tool that interacts with the tensile profile 17. Alternatively, the retaining elements 11 can be directly subjected to an assembly force. When the assembly force is released, a restoring force acts on the retaining elements 11. The restoring force acting on one retaining element 11 is directed in the direction of the opposite retaining element 11. This clamps the heating element 13 between the retaining elements 11.

[0103] The chamber walls K' form lever arms that are elastically deformable and exhibit mechanical stress in the elastically deformed state. This stress provides the holding or restoring force with which the heating element 13 is held between the two holding elements 11.

[0104] The tensile profile 17 is designed to interact with a tool. In particular, tensile profiles comprising a T- or L-shaped geometry have engagement surfaces into which the tool can engage and apply an external tensile force, so that the retaining elements 11 can be moved away from each other to enlarge the gap 12 and to position a heating element 13 in the gap 12. It is possible for several heating elements 13 to be arranged between the retaining elements 11. The heating elements 13 can, for example, be arranged next to each other, preferably not in contact with one another. Reference symbol list

[0105] I'Interior K'Chamber wall 10Holding device 11Holding element 12Gap 13Heating element 14Chamber 15Lever arm 16Heat transfer body 17Tension profile 18Recess 19Receipt 20Borway 21Cooling element 22Outer cooling elements 23Inner cooling elements 24Incision 25Connecting webs 26Sheet metal strip 27Conduit 28Clamping area

Claims

1. Holding device (10) for at least one heating element, in particular for a PTC heating element or a mica heating element, comprising - at least two oppositely arranged holding elements (11) which are spaced apart from one another by a gap (12) that extends along a longitudinal direction of the holding device (10) and is adapted to accommodate at least one heating element (13), and - a heat transfer body (16) having at least two chambers (14) which each form an inner region (I') through which a gaseous medium can flow, - wherein the opposing holding elements (11) are arranged between the two chambers (14) and the gap (12) connects the inner regions (I') of the chambers (14), characterized in that - at least one tension profile (17) is arranged on at least one outer surface of the holding elements (11), to which profile a tensile force can be applied in order to enlarge the gap (12) for accommodating the at least one heating element (13), - the chambers (14) have chamber walls (K') which form lever arms (15) at least in sections, wherein the lever arms (15) are elastically deformable at least in sections by the tensile force and are connected to the holding elements (11) in such a way that the at least one heating element (13) is subjected to a holding force in the installed state.

2. Holding device according to claim 1, characterized in that the chamber walls (K') of the two chambers (14) are in each case of substantially the same shape, in particular the chamber walls (K') form lever arms (15) of equal length, and the holding elements (11) are arranged in a transverse direction centrally between the chambers (14), or in that the chamber walls (K') of the two chambers (14) have different shapes from one another, in particular the chamber walls (K') form lever arms (15) of different lengths from one another, so that the holding elements (11) are arranged between the chambers (14) in a manner such that they are offset in a transverse direction from the center.

3. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the chamber walls (K') each have, at least in some sections, a geometry which is curved in cross section, in particular a circular or oval geometry, and / or in that the chamber walls (K') each have, at least in some sections, a geometry which is angular in cross-section, in particular a triangular or polygonal geometry .

4. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding elements (11) and / or the tension profile (17) have at least one cooling element (21), in particular a cooling element (21) designed as an extension or rib.

5. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tension profile (17) and / or the cooling element (21) have / has, at least in sections, an I-shaped, E-shaped, L-shaped and / or T-shaped geometry in cross-section.

6. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding elements (11) each have an inner surface which bounds the gap (12), wherein at least one recess (18) extends on at least one inner surface in the longitudinal direction of the heat transfer body (16).

7. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the chamber walls (K') has on an outer surface at least one receptacle (19) for a fastening means, and / or in that at least one of the chamber walls (K') has outer cooling elements (22), in particular outer cooling elements (22) designed as extensions or ribs, which are arranged on an outer surface of the chamber wall (K'), and / or in that at least one of the chamber walls (K') has inner cooling elements (23), in particular inner cooling elements (23) designed as extensions or ribs, which are arranged on an inner surface of the chamber wall (K').

8. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one holding element (11) and / or tension profile (17) comprises a bore (20) which extends in the longitudinal direction of the heat transfer body (16).

9. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding device (10) has at least one plane of symmetry which extends in the longitudinal direction of the holding device (10).

10. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the chamber walls (K') have sections of different material thickness.

11. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding elements (11) and the heat transfer body (16) are of integral, in particular monolithic, design.

12. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding device (10) is adapted such that a plurality of sequentially arranged heating elements (13) are arranged between the holding elements (11) and are each subjected to a holding force, in particular in that the holding device (10) has a cut (24) which extends orthogonally to the longitudinal direction of the holding device in order to be able to clamp various sequentially arranged heating elements individually.

13. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding device (10) has at least in some sections a profiling on the outer surface of the heat transfer body (16).

14. Heating device having a holding device (10) according to one of the preceding claims and at least one heating element (13), in particular a PTC heating element or a mica heating element, wherein the heating element (13) is arranged between the holding elements (11).

15. Method for manufacturing a heating apparatus according to claim 14, in which a holding device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 13 is provided, wherein - the opposing holding elements (11) are moved away from each other in opposite directions by applying an external force, so that the width of the gap (12) increases, - at least the heating element (13) is arranged in the gap (12), and - then the external force is removed, so that the width of the gap (12) is reduced and the heating element (13) is loaded with a force and held by the lever arms (15).