Integrated EGR Valve Interface Reduces Gas Supply Module Size
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing gas supply module for motor vehicle engines is bulky due to the separate components, including a valve, which occupies valuable space under the engine cover.
Innovation Solution
The integration of at least some elements of the valve into the interface part of the gas supply module, specifically the EGR valve, allows for a reduction in size by incorporating the valve's movable part into the profile of the first opening, and the use of connecting and injection channels to mix recirculated exhaust gases with charge air passing through the heat exchanger.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate valve is attached to the interface part, then the gas supply module can control the flow of recirculated exhaust gases, but the assembly becomes bulky and occupies excessive space under the engine cover
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is integrated into the interface part by incorporating the valve body as part of the interface part structure itself, merging two previously separate components (valve and interface part) into a single integrated unit. This eliminates the need for a separate attached valve while maintaining flow control functionality, thereby reducing the overall module size and space occupation under the engine cover
Solution Approach 2:
The interface part is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the structural interface between the heat exchanger and cylinder head, and as the housing for the valve mechanism that controls recirculated exhaust gas flow. By making the interface part multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate dedicated valve components, reducing overall assembly size
2Volume of moving object
If the valve elements are integrated into the interface part, then the module size is reduced, but the complexity of integrating movable parts into the opening profile increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated valve structure is divided into distinct functional segments: the interface part housing, the valve body, the movable part (butterfly valve or piston), and the sealing elements. Each segment is designed independently but integrates seamlessly into the overall structure, making the complex integrated design more manageable while maintaining compact dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
The movable part of the valve is nested within the opening profile of the interface part, with the valve body housed inside the interface part structure. This nesting arrangement allows the valve mechanism to be contained within the existing interface part footprint, achieving space reduction while managing integration complexity through hierarchical structuring
3Adaptability or versatility
If connecting channels are added to mix gases, then gas mixing functionality is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting channels that mix recirculated exhaust gases with charge air are integrated directly into the interface part structure, merging the mixing function with the existing interface component. This eliminates the need for separate mixing chambers or external ducting, adding gas mixing capability while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity
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
This configuration reduces the overall size of the gas supply module while maintaining the functionality of gas mixing and recirculation, optimizing space utilization and engine performance.
Implementation Method 1
a second opening for a second gas, more particularly from the charge air having passed through a heat exchanger
Implementation Method 2
a valve attached to the interface part... a movable part (or actuator) of a valve for the at least partial closing of the first opening
Implementation Method 3
a connecting channel, connecting the first opening and the second opening... makes it possible to communicate the first and second openings so as to obtain a mixture of the two gases
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
The invention relates to an interface part (10) between a motor vehicle engine head and a heat exchanger (12), the interface part (10) comprising a first opening for the flow of a first gas. According to the invention, the first opening has a profile capable of engaging with a valve element comprising a movable portion (52) of the valve (50), with a view to at least partially sealing the first opening by means of said movable portion (52). The invention also relates to an assembly of such an interface part and a valve, and to a gas supply module for an engine comprising such an assembly. The invention is applicable, in particular, to the automotive field.