Vehicle Cooling Module Duct With Integrated Heat Exchanger Mounting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Cooling air leaks occur between the edges of the air inlet duct and the frame, which complicates sealing management in motor vehicle cooling modules.
Innovation Solution
A cooling module design featuring a duct with integrated fixing elements that house heat exchangers, reducing the number of assembly parts and enhancing sealing by projecting elements from the duct's internal face, while external elements secure the second heat exchanger.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional separate frame and duct assembly is used, then sealing management becomes complex due to air leaks between edges, but integrating fixing elements into the duct reduces part count and simplifies assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the fixing elements directly into the duct structure, merging previously separate components (duct and frame with holding means) into a single integrated assembly. This reduces the number of parts and assembly steps while maintaining sealing effectiveness through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The duct is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the air passage structure and the mounting framework for heat exchangers. The fixing elements embedded in the duct allow it to simultaneously support and seal the heat exchanger assemblies, eliminating the need for a separate frame structure.
2Productivity
If multiple separate components are assembled, then production costs increase and assembly time increases, but integrated design reduces part count
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the duct and frame functions into a single integrated component with embedded fixing elements, the patent reduces the number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. This streamlines production processes and reduces assembly time while potentially lowering overall manufacturing costs through reduced part count.
3Reliability
If multiple junctions between parts are created, then vibrations increase and reliability decreases, but integrated design minimizes junctions
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of fixing elements into the duct structure eliminates multiple separate junctions between duct, frame, and mounting components. This reduces the number of potential vibration points and failure locations, thereby improving the overall reliability and vibration resistance of the air conditioning assembly.
4Use of energy by moving object
If more parts and materials are used, then weight increases and fuel consumption increases, but reducing part count lowers weight
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating multiple functions into a single duct structure, the patent eliminates the need for separate frame and mounting components, thereby reducing the total material usage and overall weight of the air conditioning assembly. This weight reduction directly contributes to lower fuel consumption in the vehicle.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a cooling module (100) for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one heat exchanger (3, 4) and at least one duct (1) comprising an air inlet (10) of the cooling module (100), the duct (1) being configured to convey cooling air from the air inlet (10) towards the heat exchanger (3, 4), characterized in that the duct (1) comprises fastening elements (24, 24', 25, 26, 27, 29) configured to fasten the heat exchanger (3, 4) to the duct (1).