Heat Exchange Module Holding Device Impact Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for securing heat exchange modules on vehicles, such as the DANNER shock-absorbing system, are costly and not adaptable to non-standardized impacts, and may cause damage during abrupt recoil and stop phases in frontal collisions.
Innovation Solution
A holding device with breakable retaining parts and a cam mechanism that allows the heat exchange module to pivot and disengage from the supporting structure during impact, using a plastic fixing support with a recess and counter-shape cooperation, and a shock absorber for damage mitigation, enabling easy repair post-impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If studs with two positions (initial and retracted) are used to fix the heat exchange module, then the module can be protected during frontal impact, but the recoil and stop phases can be abrupt causing damage to the module
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a shock absorber element that is pre-installed in the stud mechanism to cushion the recoil and stop phases during impact. This beforehand cushioning prevents the abrupt movements that cause damage to the heat exchange module, while still maintaining the protective retraction function during frontal impact.
2Reliability
If a complex device with articulated arms and fine adjustments is used to move the heat exchange module to a retracted position, then the module can be protected during impact, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fixing mechanism into simple, discrete components: a stud with threaded engagement, a shock absorber element, and a breaking point design. This segmentation replaces the complex articulated arms with modular, easy-to-manufacture parts that achieve the same protective function without requiring fine adjustments or complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a cost-effective stud design with a controlled breaking point that can be replaced after impact. This disposable or replaceable component approach eliminates the need for expensive, complex articulated arm mechanisms, reducing both device complexity and manufacturing cost while maintaining impact protection functionality.
3Reliability
If specific arrangements for DANNER shock are implemented, then the heat exchange module can be protected during standardized frontal impact, but additional costs are incurred for countries that do not use DANNER shock
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal fixing device with adjustable stud length and shock absorber configuration that can handle various impact scenarios beyond just DANNER shock. The breaking point mechanism and modular design allow the same basic structure to be adapted to different impact standards and regional requirements, eliminating the need for country-specific arrangements and reducing costs for non-DANNER shock countries.
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 effectively absorbs and mitigates the impact forces, reducing damage to the heat exchange module while allowing for quick and cost-effective repair, and is adaptable to various impact scenarios without additional vehicle construction costs.
Implementation Method 1
a shock absorber for damage mitigation
Data Source
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AI summary
The device (7) has a fixation unit (7a) fixed at a fixation point (A), and a removable fixation unit (7b) fixed at another fixation point (B), where the fixation points are located opposite to one another. The removable fixation unit disintegrates a heat exchanging module e.g. internal combustion engine cooling module (1), from a bearing structure (3) of a motor vehicle, in case of impact e.g. Danner impact, of the vehicle. The removable fixation unit has a retaining or clipping part i.e. hook, that is breakable during impact of the vehicle. An independent claim is also included for a heat exchanging module for a motor vehicle, comprising a heat exchanger.