Coil Heat Exchanger Tube Fixation With Automatic Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Coil type heat exchangers face challenges in securely fixing tubes during the winding process without the need for additional locking elements, while maintaining an automatic winding process.
Innovation Solution
A fixation system with first and second reception portions and a movable locking mechanism that automatically transitions from a mounting position to a locking position upon tube insertion, securing the tube without additional parts, allowing for automatic and secure locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate locking wire or additional locking element is used to secure the tube in reception portions, then the tube fixation reliability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is integrated into the fixation body as a unified component rather than being a separate part. The fixation body includes both the reception portions for the tube and the locking element that moves between mounting and locking positions, eliminating the need for additional separate locking wires or elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element automatically transitions from the mounting position to the locking position when the tube is inserted into the reception portion, securing the tube without requiring external intervention or additional locking mechanisms. The system self-secures through the interaction between the tube insertion and the locking element's automatic movement.
2Reliability
If a separate locking wire is used to maintain the tube in reception portions, then the tube fixation reliability is improved, but the ease of manufacture and assembly is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element and fixation body are manufactured as a single integrated component, reducing the number of parts that need to be assembled. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process and eliminates the need for separate assembly steps to attach locking wires or additional locking elements.
3Reliability
If the locking element is manually positioned and operated, then the locking reliability is improved, but the extent of automation and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element automatically transitions from the mounting position to the locking position when the tube is inserted into the reception portion. This automatic movement eliminates the need for manual positioning or operation of the locking mechanism, enabling integration with automated winding processes while maintaining reliable tube fixation.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4a~5
AI summary
Fixation (16) for fixing a tube (13) of a coil type heat exchanger (11), the fixation comprising a main body (20) mountable to a support (14) of the heat exchanger (11), a first reception portion (22) and a second reception portion (22) arranged side-by-side in the main body and each having an opening (23) for inserting the tube (13) into the respective reception portion (22), a locking (25) movably connected to the main body (20) between a mounting position and a locking position, wherein the locking (25) has an engagement portion (27) forming part of the first reception portion (22) for moving the locking (25) from the mounting position into the locking position upon insertion of the tube (23) into the first reception portion (22), and a locking portion (28), in the locking position of the locking (25), blocking at least part of the opening (23) of the second reception portion (22).