Radially Flexible Heating Element for Exhaust Purification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heating elements in exhaust gas purification devices of vehicles experience non-uniform deformations due to temperature variations, leading to reduced lifespan and installation challenges.
Innovation Solution
A radially flexible connecting element with a conductive peripheral frame and flexible mounting brackets, allowing for elastic deformation and improved mechanical connection between the heating grid and the duct, enhancing durability and installation simplicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid connecting element is used to ensure mechanical stability, then structural strength is improved, but the heating element cannot accommodate temperature-induced deformations, reducing service life
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element transitions from a rigid structure to a dynamic, radially flexible structure that can adapt to temperature variations. The mounting brackets are designed with radial flexibility allowing them to deform elastically in response to thermal expansion and contraction, while maintaining secure mechanical connection throughout the service life
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element's radial flexibility parameter is optimized to accommodate thermal deformations. The mounting brackets are designed with specific geometric features (such as curved sections or elongated holes) that enable radial movement within controlled limits, allowing the system to absorb thermal stress without compromising connection integrity
2Reliability
If a complex mounting bracket design is used to ensure secure attachment, then connection reliability is improved, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is divided into distinct functional segments: a rigid portion for secure attachment to the heating grid, a flexible intermediate section for accommodating deformations, and a mounting portion for attachment to the exhaust duct. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally while simplifying the overall installation process
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket incorporates flexible geometric features such as elongated slots, curved sections, or thin-walled structures that provide radial flexibility. These flexible elements allow the bracket to deform elastically during thermal cycles while maintaining reliable connection, and their simple geometry facilitates easy installation without requiring complex alignment procedures
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 increases the service life of heating elements, improves performance, and simplifies installation by mitigating deformation stresses and facilitating alignment within the exhaust line.
Implementation Method 1
the connecting element is at least partially radially flexible
Data Source
AI summary
A heating element for a vehicle exhaust gas purification device is provided and is to be disposed in an exhaust gas duct. The heating element extends around a central axis. and comprises a central support defined around the central axis, a heating grid extending radially around the central support, and a liaison element. The liaison element comprises a plurality of mounting brackets comprising at least a first part connecting the mounting brackets to the heating grid, at least a second part connecting the bracket to the duct, intended to be directly or indirectly attached to the duct, and at least one intermediate section connecting the first connecting part to the second connecting part. The connecting element is at least partially radially flexible.