Multifunction Engine Support for Compact Cooling Module Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing cooling modules for vehicle engines are bulky and difficult to integrate into the engine compartment due to the integration of the radiator with the pump and cooler, requiring significant space and complex assembly, which complicates their installation and assembly process.

Innovation Solution

A multifunction support with a U-shaped frame and a closing plate, featuring clipping mechanisms for easy assembly and integration, which accommodates the cooling fluid pump, solenoid valve, and cooler, allowing for a compact arrangement and simplified installation by using interlocking mechanisms and elastic studs for secure positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the radiator is integrated into the same structure with the pump and cooler, then the cooling module is complete and functional, but the module becomes bulky and difficult to integrate into the engine compartment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecooling module functionalityVSAvoidcooling module size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The support structure is divided into a U-shaped main part and a separate closing plate that are assembled together. This segmentation allows the support to be manufactured more easily and then assembled with the radiator, pump, and cooler components in a modular fashion, reducing the overall bulk while maintaining structural integrity and cooling functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If the cooling module components are integrated together, then the cooling system is complete, but the assembly becomes very delicate and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecooling system completenessVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The U-shaped main part and closing plate are merged through assembly to form the complete support structure. This merging approach allows the support to provide a unified mounting platform for the radiator, pump, and cooler, simplifying the overall assembly process while ensuring all cooling components are properly integrated and secured.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The support structure acts as an intermediary element between the various cooling components (radiator, pump, cooler). By providing a common mounting platform with integrated mounting features, the support mediates the assembly process, making it easier to integrate all components together while maintaining structural stability and proper positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Volume of moving object

If the engine compartment volume is restricted, then the vehicle design is compact, but the space available for installing new cooling components is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle compactnessVSAvoidcomponent installation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The support structure is designed as a multi-functional component that serves as a mounting platform for the radiator, pump, and cooler simultaneously. This universal support structure maximizes the use of available space in the compact engine compartment by consolidating multiple mounting functions into a single integrated component, thereby facilitating easier installation while maintaining vehicle compactness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3931018B1Multifunctional support for a heat engine
Publication Date: 2023.10.25 RENAULT SA
  • EP3931018B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3931018B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3931018B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The invention relates to a multi-functional support (1) for a motor of a vehicle, particularly of a motor vehicle, comprising a frame designed to house at least two members of a cooling module; said frame comprising at least one face (21) that is designed to be assembled with a radiator by engagement.