Flexible Mounting Bracket for Low-Force Heat Exchanger Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of heat exchangers, such as in automobiles, requires significant force, often necessitating large pneumatic machines that slow and inefficiently secure the heat exchanger in place.
Innovation Solution
A mounting bracket with a heat exchanger engagement portion and a retention member, featuring flexible sidewalls and a base, which secures the heat exchanger using angled flanges and retention members to reduce installation force and enhance stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional mounting brackets are used to secure heat exchangers, then the heat exchanger can be firmly mounted, but large installation force is required which slows down the installation process
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket incorporates flexible sidewalls that can dynamically adjust their position during installation. The sidewalls flex outward when the heat exchanger is inserted and then return to their original position to secure the heat exchanger, enabling the bracket to adapt to the installation process without requiring excessive force
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the mounting bracket material by using a polymer that can undergo elastic deformation. This allows the bracket to temporarily change its dimensional parameters (sidewall position) during installation and then return to its original state, reducing the force needed while maintaining secure mounting
2Reliability
If large pneumatic machines are used to provide installation force, then the heat exchanger can be secured in place, but the installation process becomes slower and less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is designed to perform the mounting function itself through its flexible sidewalls that automatically engage with the heat exchanger. The bracket self-secures the heat exchanger by simply inserting it into position, eliminating the need for external pneumatic machines and significantly reducing installation time while maintaining reliable mounting
3Strength
If rigid mounting brackets are used, then structural strength is maintained, but the installation force required increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket uses flexible sidewalls made of polymer material that can bend and deform during installation. These flexible elements maintain the overall structural strength of the bracket while allowing easy insertion of the heat exchanger, combining strength with ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic flexible structure during installation. The sidewalls move from a retracted position to an engaged position, allowing easy installation while maintaining structural integrity once mounted
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 allows for efficient and secure mounting of heat exchangers with reduced installation force, improving the efficiency of the installation process and ensuring the heat exchanger remains firmly in place.
Implementation Method 1
The mounting bracket includes a polymer. The mounting bracket includes a first flexible sidewall, a second flexible sidewall, and a base extending between the first flexible sidewall and the second flexible sidewall.
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting bracket for a heat exchanger. The mounting bracket includes a heat exchanger engagement portion and a mounting portion. The heat exchanger engagement portion includes a retention member. The mounting portion extends from the heat exchanger engagement portion and is configured for fixedly mounting the mounting bracket. Cooperation between the retention member and the heat exchanger secures the heat exchanger to the mounting bracket.