Fluid-Heating Device with Cast-In Support to Prevent Local Heating

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fluid-heating devices face challenges in efficiently heating fluids when the heater output is increased, leading to local heating due to direct contact between the fluid and the heater.

Innovation Solution

A fluid-heating device configuration where the heater is supported by a cast-in support body within a die-molded heating cover portion, preventing direct contact between the fluid and the heater, and enhancing the heat transfer area through a structured flow channel design.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If the heater output is increased to improve heating efficiency, then the heating capability is improved, but local heating of the fluid occurs due to direct contact between the fluid and heater surface

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveheater outputVSAvoidlocal heating of fluid

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A cover portion is introduced as an intermediary component between the heater and the fluid. The cover portion covers the heater surface and prevents direct contact between the fluid and heater, thereby eliminating local heating while allowing the heater output to be increased for improved heating efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If the fluid is brought into direct contact with the heater surface to improve heat transfer efficiency, then heating efficiency is improved, but the heat transfer area becomes insufficient when heater output is increased

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveheating efficiencyVSAvoidheat transfer area

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The cover portion extends in the radial direction from the heater surface, creating a new dimensional structure that increases the heat transfer area. This additional surface area allows sufficient heat exchange with the fluid even when the heater output is increased, preventing the heat transfer area from becoming insufficient.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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

This configuration ensures efficient heat transfer and prevents local heating, allowing for effective fluid heating even at increased heater outputs by maintaining a sufficient heat transfer area without direct fluid-heater contact.

Implementation Method 1

the heater heats the fluid that is in direct contact with the surface thereof

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHeat conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Implementation Method 2

a heating cover portion that is molded so as to cover the surrounding of the heater

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHeat conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Implementation Method 3

a heat transfer area for performing a heat exchange with the fluid

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectConvection: Convection

Data Source

PatentUS11933520B2Fluid-heating device and manufacturing method thereof

Publication Date: 2024.03.19 MARELLI CABIN COMFORT JAPAN CORPORATION

AI summary

A fluid-heating device for heating fluid with a heater includes: a heating portion that is molded so as to cover the surrounding of the heater; and a support body integrally cast into the heating portion, the heating portion being molded in a state in which the heater is supported by the support body in a die for molding the heating portion.