Heat Exchanger Core Stacking with Upright Holding and Conveyance
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing manufacturing apparatus for heat exchanger cores cannot effectively assemble stacked heat exchanger cores, as it requires replacing the apparatus for heat exchanger fins, limiting its usability.
Innovation Solution
A stacking apparatus with a core uprightly supporting unit, core holding unit, core conveying unit, and operation control unit that allows for the upright support, close contact, and conveyance of heat exchanger cores, enabling the assembly of stacked heat exchanger cores using conventional manufacturing apparatuses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If heat exchanger tubes are inserted into heat exchanger fins using existing manufacturing apparatus, then heat exchanger cores can be manufactured, but the apparatus cannot effectively assemble stacked heat exchanger cores requiring replacement of the manufacturing apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The existing manufacturing apparatus for heat exchanger fins is adapted to perform multiple functions: it can both manufacture heat exchanger cores by inserting tubes into fins and assemble stacked heat exchanger cores by receiving and positioning them. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for apparatus replacement while maintaining assembly capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The manufacturing apparatus is designed with movable and adjustable components that allow it to dynamically switch between manufacturing mode and assembly mode. The apparatus can adjust its configuration to receive pre-manufactured cores and position them for stacking, providing flexibility in operation.
2Productivity
If heat exchanger cores are stacked in upright position with close contact, then assembly efficiency and space utilization are improved, but complex holding and conveying mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus positions heat exchanger cores in an upright orientation on a horizontal base, creating a stable equilibrium position. The cores rest naturally in this upright state with close contact, eliminating the need for complex active holding mechanisms. Gravity and geometric constraints provide passive stabilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat exchanger cores are designed with self-aligning features that enable them to automatically position themselves in the correct upright orientation and close contact configuration during assembly. The cores' own geometry facilitates their stacking without requiring sophisticated external positioning mechanisms.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional manufacturing apparatus is used to manufacture heat exchanger fins, then existing production lines can be maintained, but the apparatus cannot assemble stacked heat exchanger cores without modification
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing apparatus is enhanced with additional functional modules that enable it to perform both traditional fin manufacturing and new core assembly operations. The apparatus maintains its original tube-insertion capability while adding the ability to receive, hold, and position pre-manufactured cores for stacking.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus functionality is divided into distinct operational modules: the original tube-insertion manufacturing module and a new core-receiving and assembly module. This segmentation allows the original production line to continue manufacturing fins while the additional module handles the assembly of stacked cores, maintaining independence of functions.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a stacking apparatus for heat exchanger cores that can assemble heat exchanger cores manufactured by a conventional manufacturing apparatus for heat exchanger core into stacked heat exchanger cores. As a solution, the stacking apparatus for heat exchanger cores includes: a core uprightly supporting unit; a first core holder with a J shape that holds a first heat exchanger core in close contact with a second heat exchanger core, a second core holder that holds the first heat exchanger core and the second heat exchanger core in close contact, and a core holding unit that moves the first core holder and the second core holder; a core conveying unit including a bottom supporter, a third core holder with a J shape that holds the first heat exchanger core or the second heat exchanger core held by the bottom supporter in close contact, and a moving mechanism; and an operation control unit that controls an operation of the core holding unit and the core conveying unit.