Integrated Front Frame Radiator Structure for Lower Vehicle Weight
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Solution Overview
Problem
The weight of heat exchange devices and associated components in motor vehicles contributes to increased overall weight and pollutant emissions, 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 stiffening elements, thereby minimizing weight and enhancing airflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If heat exchange devices and associated components are added to motor vehicles, then heat exchange functionality is improved, but vehicle weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the heat exchange device with the front frame assembly into a single integrated structure. The transversal element of the front frame assembly serves dual purposes: providing structural support and housing the heat exchange functionality through integrated ducts and lattice structures. This merging eliminates the need for separate heat exchange components and their associated mounting structures, thereby reducing overall vehicle weight while maintaining effective heat exchange performance
2Strength
If additional stiffening elements are added to support heat exchange devices, then structural strength is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The transversal element of the front frame assembly is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides structural support, houses heat exchange ducts, and incorporates stiffening lattice structures. This universal design means that a single component performs multiple functions that would traditionally require separate parts, thereby reducing device complexity and the number of components needed while maintaining or enhancing structural strength
Solution Approach 2:
The heat exchange ducts and lattice structures are nested within the transversal element of the front frame assembly. The ducts are positioned within the hollow sections of the transversal element, and the lattice structures are integrated into the walls of these sections. This nested arrangement allows the heat exchange functionality to be embedded within the existing structural framework without requiring additional external stiffening elements
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, optimizes heat exchange efficiency, and maximizes airflow, resulting in a lighter and more environmentally friendly motor vehicle design.
Implementation Method 1
heat exchange devices adapted to ensure the exchange of heat energy between two fluids or between a fluid and a portion of the motor vehicles
Implementation Method 2
a flow of a second fluid is adapted to lap, on the outside, said ducts
Implementation Method 3
exchange of heat energy between two fluids or between a fluid and a portion of the motor vehicles
Data Source
AI summary
A front frame assembly for a motor vehicle comprising a transversal element extending crosswise to a longitudinal extension direction of the motor vehicle and a heat exchange device integrated in or fixed to said transversal element.