Compressor Assembly Steel Mounting Plate Bolts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Compressors used in vehicle air conditioning units lack sufficient strength and rigidity, particularly in their housing, which is often constructed from aluminum and requires enhancement for better performance.
Innovation Solution
A compressor assembly featuring a rigid steel mounting plate and steel case bolts that extend through the compressor from the front head to the rear head, providing superior strength and rigidity while maintaining a lightweight and inexpensive aluminum construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the compressor housing is constructed from aluminum, then the compressor remains lightweight and inexpensive, but the strength and rigidity of the housing is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining aluminum compressor housing with steel mounting plate and steel case bolts. The aluminum housing maintains lightweight properties while the steel components provide enhanced strength and rigidity where structurally critical, creating a hybrid construction that balances weight and structural requirements.
2Strength
If steel components are used throughout the compressor housing, then strength and rigidity are improved, but weight and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by selectively using steel materials only in critical structural areas (mounting plate and case bolts) rather than throughout the entire housing. This localized reinforcement provides necessary strength and rigidity while minimizing the weight and cost increase associated with steel construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines aluminum housing with steel mounting components to create a composite structure that optimizes both strength and manufacturing considerations, avoiding the need for complete steel construction while still achieving enhanced structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A compressor assembly has a pulley assembly and a compressor, with a mounting plate mounted therebetween. The compressor includes a front head, a rear head, and a piston assembly operably mounted between the front head and the rear head. A plurality of case bolts extend through the mounting p late, the front head, and into the rear head.