Auxiliary HVAC System for Multi-Zone Vehicle Climate Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Auxiliary HVAC systems in larger vehicles have a large footprint, making it difficult to accommodate seating arrangements and other features while providing effective heating and cooling, and they consume more energy than necessary.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle HVAC system incorporating an auxiliary coolant loop with a pump, heat exchangers, and flow control valves to minimize the system's size and energy consumption, allowing for efficient heating and cooling of passenger compartments or zones with shorter duct runs and reduced heat exchanger size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a traditional auxiliary HVAC system is used in larger vehicles, then heating and cooling coverage is comprehensive, but the system footprint becomes large and occupies valuable passenger compartment space
Solution Approach 1:
The HVAC system is divided into multiple independent zone controllers, each managing a specific region (front, rear left, rear right). Each zone controller contains its own blower motor and temperature control mechanisms, allowing distributed temperature management without requiring a single large centralized unit. This segmentation enables comprehensive thermal coverage while minimizing overall system footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary HVAC system is designed to perform multiple functions through a compact integrated architecture. The system provides both heating and cooling capabilities across multiple zones simultaneously, and can operate independently or in conjunction with the primary HVAC system. This multi-functionality allows a small footprint system to deliver comprehensive climate control coverage.
2Adaptability or versatility
If duct runs are extended to reach multiple zones in the passenger compartment, then multi-zone conditioning is achieved, but the duct system becomes extensive and increases system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The air distribution system is segmented into multiple independent zones, each with its own blower motor and control mechanisms. Instead of using a single extensive duct network to distribute air to all zones, each zone has its localized blowing capability. This allows the system to achieve multi-zone conditioning while minimizing duct run length and complexity, as air can be generated and distributed locally within each zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a centralized air distribution approach (requiring extensive ductwork) to a distributed approach where multiple blowers are positioned throughout the passenger compartment. This dimensional change in system architecture allows air to be delivered to multiple zones through shorter, simpler duct runs or direct ventilation, reducing overall duct system complexity while maintaining multi-zone capability.
3Area of stationary object
If a compact auxiliary HVAC system is used to reduce footprint, then passenger compartment space is freed for other features, but the system may consume more energy per unit of cooling/heating provided
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs demand-based control where each zone's blower motor operates periodically or on-demand rather than continuously. The control module monitors temperature conditions in each zone and activates blowers only when heating or cooling is required in specific zones. This periodic operation reduces overall energy consumption compared to continuous operation, allowing the compact system to be energy-efficient while maintaining its small footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides localized temperature control for each zone independently, allowing energy to be applied only where and when needed rather than conditioning the entire passenger compartment uniformly. Each zone controller adjusts its blower and temperature control based on local thermal conditions, optimizing energy efficiency for the compact system size while maintaining the ability to provide comprehensive climate control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves flexible and efficient heating and cooling with a minimal footprint, reducing energy consumption and accommodating multi-zone conditioning and component cooling needs.
Implementation Method 1
a heat exchanger positioned within the passenger compartment... moving air through the heat exchanger and into the passenger compartment
Implementation Method 2
an auxiliary coolant loop including a pump for moving a coolant, within the auxiliary coolant loop, through a heat exchanger
Data Source
AI summary
A method of heating and cooling at least one zone of a passenger compartment in a vehicle includes the steps of (a) pumping a coolant through an auxiliary coolant loop, (b) changing a temperature of the coolant utilizing a first heat exchanger associated with a refrigerant loop via an expansion device in the cooling mode, and a second heat exchanger associated with the refrigerant loop and (c) moving air through a third heat exchanger through which coolant moves, that third heat exchanger positioned in the passenger compartment, and at least one vent positioned within at least one zone of the passenger compartment.