Fan Shroud and Seal Ring Assembly for Vertical CRFM Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for loading and unloading a condenser, radiator, and fan module (CRFM) into a vehicle's engine compartment often require horizontal space, which is not feasible when space is limited, necessitating the use of a vehicle pit or lift for installation.
Innovation Solution
A fan shroud and seal ring assembly that allows vertical loading and mounting of the CRFM, featuring a fan shroud with attachment components and a seal ring that secures around the fan stator, eliminating the need for horizontal space and specialized lifting equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If horizontal loading method is used for CRFM installation, then the CRFM can be properly mounted to the vehicle chassis, but sufficient horizontal space is required which is not available in confined engine compartments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the loading dimension from horizontal to vertical by modifying the fan shroud and seal ring assembly to accommodate vertical insertion of the CRFM. The seal ring is designed with attachment components that allow it to be secured to the fan shroud during vertical loading, enabling installation in confined engine compartments without requiring horizontal space or vehicle pits.
2Area of stationary object
If vertical loading method is implemented for CRFM installation, then horizontal space requirement is eliminated, but the fan shroud and seal ring assembly requires modified attachment components to enable vertical alignment and securing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sealing and attachment system into separate components: a fan shroud with first attachment components and a seal ring with second attachment components. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for vertical loading while maintaining simplicity. The attachment components are designed as separate elements that work together to secure the CRFM during vertical installation.
3Reliability
If seal ring is positioned around fan stator after CRFM mounting, then proper sealing is achieved, but the seal ring must be precisely aligned with the fan opening border
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces attachment components as intermediary elements between the fan shroud and seal ring. These components include attachment features on both the fan shroud and seal ring that work together to precisely position and align the seal ring with the fan opening border during vertical loading, ensuring proper sealing without requiring high manufacturing precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A fan shroud and seal ring are assembled together to allow a condenser, radiator, and fan module (CRFM) to be vertically loaded into an engine compartment of a vehicle to be mounted to the vehicle chassis and engine with a fan stator. The fan shroud has a plurality of first attachment components, and the seal ring has a plurality of second attachment components, each of which corresponds to a first attachment component. Each first attachment component engages with a corresponding second attachment component to secure the seal ring to the fan shroud, such that the seal ring is positioned around at least a portion of the fan stator after the CRFM has been mounted and the assembly is in its final configuration.