Electrical connection interface of an electric heating device for a motor vehicle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric heating devices in motor vehicles face issues with rapid heating and defogging in cold weather due to insufficient thermal energy from the engine coolant, and the risk of connection terminal shearing during vibrations in miniaturized equipment.
Innovation Solution
An electric connection interface with a shearing limitation device featuring ribs and a click-and-ratchet mechanism to securely hold the heating elements in place, reducing the risk of shearing and ensuring reliable electrical connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the thickness of the connection terminal electrodes is reduced to miniaturize the equipment, then the size and cost are reduced, but the risk of shearing during vibrations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by providing a notched support structure that protrudes into the notch to limit the travel of the connection terminal before shearing can occur. This preventive measure creates a mechanical stop that cushions against excessive movement during vibrations, allowing the use of thinner electrodes without compromising reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is segmented into a body and protruding notched portions, creating distinct functional zones. The notched support divides the constraint function into multiple contact points within the notch, providing distributed support to the connection terminal while maintaining overall structural integrity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the connection terminal is held firmly by the contact zone with the notch walls, then the heating element is secured, but the connection terminal is at risk of shearing during vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The notched support structure provides beforehand cushioning by creating a mechanical limit to the connection terminal's travel within the notch. This prevents the terminal from experiencing excessive shear forces during vibrations while still maintaining stable positioning through the notched geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The notched support structure acts as an intermediary element between the heating element and the housing. It mediates the interaction by providing a controlled constraint mechanism that secures the heating element while protecting the connection terminal from direct shear loads during vibrations.
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 solution provides effective heating and defogging capabilities by maintaining a secure electrical connection despite vibrations, enhancing the reliability and durability of the heating device.
Implementation Method 1
a heating body comprising a plurality of parallel conductive plates, between which are mounted resistive heating elements
Implementation Method 2
radiating elements increasing the heat exchange surface with the air flow passing through the electric heating device
Implementation Method 3
Heating air intended for heating the interior of a motor vehicle with a thermal engine, as well as for defogging and defrosting glazed surfaces, is provided by exchanging heat between an air flow and a thermal engine coolant circulating in a heat exchanger
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connection interface (100) of a device for electrically heating a flow of air flowing within a ventilation, heating and/or air conditioning system of a motor vehicle comprises, in a panel (102), at least one notch that is dimensioned for receiving a connection terminal (126) mounted at the end of an electrode of a heating element of the electric heating device. The electrical connection interface comprises at least one device for limiting the shear (101) of the connection terminal which extends proud from the panel (102) adjacent to the notch.