Heat Exchanger Adapter Plate Integrating Fluid Channels
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heat exchanger arrangements require significant structural effort and installation space, and do not allow for a compact configuration with minimal weight and cost-effective solutions for multiple heat exchanger connections.
Innovation Solution
A heat exchanger adapter plate with a configuration that includes a connection plate, flow element, and separating element, allowing for direct mounting on components like internal combustion engines or lubricant filter modules, with flow channels for fluid circulation between heat exchangers, enabling a compact and cost-effective setup with selectable flow directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple heat exchangers are connected using conventional arrangements, then the required functions are fulfilled, but significant structural effort and installation space are required
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter plate merges multiple connection functions into a single integrated component. The plate provides multiple connection points (first connection point for first heat exchanger, second connection point for second heat exchanger, third connection point for additional heat exchanger) and internal flow channels that combine multiple fluid pathways, eliminating the need for separate adapters or complex piping arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter plate serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a mounting plate for multiple heat exchangers, provides internal fluid distribution channels, creates hydraulic connections between different heat exchangers, and offers versatile connection points for various media (coolant, lubricant). This multi-functionality reduces the overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple heat exchangers are connected using conventional arrangements, then the required functions are fulfilled, but considerable installation space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter plate utilizes a two-dimensional plate structure with flow channels distributed across its surface area, allowing multiple heat exchangers to be mounted in a planar arrangement rather than requiring three-dimensional spatial distribution. This dimensional approach compactly organizes multiple connections on a single plate surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow channels are nested within the adapter plate structure itself, with multiple fluid pathways integrated into the plate's thickness and surface. This nesting of fluid channels within the mounting plate eliminates the need for external piping and reduces the overall space required for fluid distribution.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional connection adapters are used, then heat exchangers can be connected, but weight is not minimized
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter plate is designed as a segmented structure with distinct functional zones: mounting surfaces for heat exchangers, internal flow channels for fluid distribution, and connection points for various media. This segmentation allows optimization of each zone's material usage and structural requirements, reducing overall weight while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow channels are designed with optimized cross-sectional parameters and dimensions tailored to specific fluid flow requirements. By adjusting channel diameter, length, and curvature parameters, the adapter plate achieves efficient fluid distribution with minimal material usage, reducing weight while maintaining hydraulic performance.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Disclosed is an adapter plate for a heat exchanger arrangement, a first heat exchanger being provided through which a first fluid and a second fluid can flow and which can be mounted onto the adapter plate, the adapter plate having a first flow channel for supplying the first heat exchanger with the first fluid and a second flow channel for removing the first fluid from the first heat exchanger and a third flow channel for supplying the first heat exchanger with the second fluid and a fourth flow channel for removing the second fluid from the first heat exchanger, the adapter plate having a fifth flow channel for supplying a second heat exchanger with the first fluid, the third flow channel being provided for removing the first fluid from the second heat exchanger. The embodiment as per the invention constitutes a cost-effective solution for fulfilling its purpose and requires no further installation space while significantly reducing weight.