Modular Flat Vehicle HVAC Layout for Tight Mounting Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current HVAC systems for motor vehicles require excessive mounting space due to their large size and fixed geometry, limiting installation flexibility and interfering with passenger space.
Innovation Solution
A modular, flat HVAC system with inclined air conditioning devices, such as heat exchangers and evaporators, relative to the casing's axes, allowing for a compact design that minimizes mounting space and enables flexible installation positions by reducing the height of the casing while maintaining a wider width, along with precise positioning features like stops and recesses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the HVAC system uses a conventional geometry with fixed positioning, then the system structure is simple, but the mounting space required is excessive and installation flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchanger is inclined at an angle α between 0° and 45° relative to the transverse plane, transforming the conventional horizontal arrangement into a three-dimensional angled configuration. This dimensional change allows the HVAC system to fit into previously unavailable spaces while reducing the longitudinal mounting footprint
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides multiple operational modes by dynamically adjusting the heat exchanger configuration between horizontal (α = 0°) and inclined (0° < α ≤ 45°) positions, enabling adaptation to different vehicle layouts and installation requirements
2Length of moving object
If the HVAC system is placed in the instrument panel and front partition panel to maximize foot space, then passenger space is improved, but the system still requires excessive longitudinal mounting space
Solution Approach 1:
By inclining the heat exchanger at an angle α between 0° and 45° relative to the transverse plane, the system converts longitudinal space requirements into a combination of transverse and vertical space utilization, thereby reducing the longitudinal footprint while maintaining cooling effectiveness
3Length of stationary object
If the heat exchanger is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis by an angle α where 0° < α ≤ 45°, then the casing height is reduced, but the heat exchanger positioning becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The HVAC system is divided into modular components with the heat exchanger as a separate inclinable module. This segmentation allows the heat exchanger to be independently positioned and angled without affecting other system components, simplifying the overall assembly process despite the inclined configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides multiple operational modes by dynamically adjusting the heat exchanger configuration between horizontal (α = 0°) and inclined (0° < α ≤ 45°) positions, enabling adaptation to different vehicle layouts and installation requirements
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 compact design allows for a wide range of installation options, reducing the required mounting space and enabling placement in various vehicle locations without compromising performance, such as between the instrument panel and engine bay or in the roof liner, while maintaining efficient air flow and temperature distribution.
Implementation Method 1
at least one heat exchanger... inclined relative to the longitudinal axis y of the casing by an angle a′
Implementation Method 2
evaporators for cooling... inclined relative to the longitudinal axis y of the casing by an angle a′′
Implementation Method 3
a fan... arranged between an air inlet and an air outlet of the casing
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, particularly a flat, modular air conditioning unit for a motor vehicle, including an essentially box-shaped casing with a length y, a height z and a width x, and several air guiding and air distribution devices placed between an air inlet and an air outlet. Air conditioning devices, including a heat exchanger and a fan, are also provided. According to the invention the air conditioning devices are linearly arranged one after another along the length y of the casing. The heat exchanger is inclined relative to the length y of the casing by an angle a′ and relative to the width x of the casing by an angle b′ such that y>x>z.