Integrated Front Frame Radiator for Lightweight Vehicle Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The weight of heat exchange devices and other components in motor vehicles contributes to increased overall weight and pollution, necessitating a reduction in vehicle weight while maintaining effective heat exchange functionality.
Innovation Solution
A front frame assembly integrating a heat exchange device within a transversal element, utilizing a lattice structure made of aluminum alloy through additive manufacturing, which optimizes heat exchange between fluids and reduces the need for additional structural elements, thereby minimizing weight and enhancing fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If heat exchange devices are added to the motor vehicle, then heat exchange functionality is improved, but vehicle weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the heat exchange device with the front frame assembly by fixing the heat exchange device to the transversal element of the frame. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate mounting structures and stiffening elements, thereby achieving heat exchange functionality without proportionally increasing vehicle weight
Solution Approach 2:
The front frame assembly's transversal element serves dual purposes: it provides structural support for the vehicle frame and simultaneously serves as a mounting structure for the heat exchange device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and minimizes overall weight
2Stability of the object's composition
If separate mounting structures and stiffening elements are added to support heat exchange devices, then structural stability is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mounting function and structural support function into a single integration point where the heat exchange device is fixed to the transversal element. This eliminates the need for separate mounting brackets, bolts, and stiffening elements, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining structural stability
Solution Approach 2:
The transversal element of the front frame assembly performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural rigidity to the frame, serves as a mounting surface for the heat exchange device, and contributes to overall vehicle stability. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed
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 integrated heat exchange system reduces vehicle weight by eliminating the need for separate stiffening elements and optimizes heat exchange efficiency, leading to a more environmentally friendly and lightweight motor vehicle design.
Implementation Method 1
heat exchange device (12) integrated in the transversal element (11) or fixed to the transversal element (11)... ensure the exchange of heat energy between two fluids or between a fluid and a portion of the motor vehicles
Data Source
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AI summary
A front frame assembly (10; 10') for a motor vehicle (1; 1') comprising a transversal element (11; 11') extending crosswise to a longitudinal extension direction (X) of the motor vehicle (1; 1') and a heat exchange device (12; 12') integrated in or fixed to said transversal element (11; 11').