Heat Exchanger Manifold With Cross-Flow Fan for Uniform Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional propeller fans for heat exchangers in motor vehicles occupy significant space, distribute air unevenly, obstruct airflow when not in use, and reduce engine efficiency, leading to increased fuel consumption and emissions.
Innovation Solution
A ventilation device comprising a manifold with a tangential fan and a volute design that distributes air uniformly to heat exchanger tubes, minimizing obstruction and optimizing airflow distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a propeller fan is used for ventilation, then air flow is generated to cool the heat exchanger, but the assembly occupies significant volume
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the ventilation function into multiple separate tubes (typically 3-7 tubes) distributed across the heat exchanger surface, each with its own small turbine, replacing the single large propeller fan. This segmentation allows the system to achieve the same cooling effect while occupying significantly less space.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a centralized ventilation approach (single propeller in front of the heat exchanger) to a distributed approach where multiple tubes are arranged across the surface area of the heat exchanger. This dimensional redistribution enables more efficient space utilization and better air flow coverage.
2Temperature
If a propeller fan is used for ventilation, then air flow is generated, but the distribution of air is not uniform over the entire heat exchanger surface
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the heat exchanger surface into multiple zones, each served by a dedicated tube with a turbine, the system ensures that air flow is distributed more uniformly across the entire surface. Each tube targets a specific region, eliminating the uneven distribution caused by a centralized propeller.
Solution Approach 2:
Each tube is positioned to serve a specific local zone of the heat exchanger, with its turbine oriented to direct air flow precisely where needed. This localized approach ensures uniform coverage and optimizes heat exchange efficiency across different regions of the heat exchanger.
3Temperature
If a propeller fan is used for ventilation, then air flow is generated when needed, but the propeller blades obstruct air flow towards the tubes and fins when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the ventilation function from a single centralized propeller and distributes it across multiple small turbines integrated into the tube structure. When not in use, the individual turbine blades are small enough to not obstruct air flow, unlike a large centralized propeller.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having a large external propeller that obstructs air flow when idle, the invention integrates small turbines directly into the tube structure, where their compact size eliminates obstruction issues. The air flow path is redesigned to accommodate the tubes rather than being blocked by them.
4Temperature
If a propeller fan is used for ventilation, then cooling is provided, but engine friction is reduced less quickly, increasing fuel consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented tube design with multiple small turbines provides more efficient and uniform cooling across the heat exchanger surface, improving heat transfer effectiveness. This enhanced cooling efficiency allows the engine to reach optimal operating temperature faster, reducing friction and fuel consumption more quickly than a conventional propeller system.
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 reduces the occupied volume, enhances airflow distribution homogeneity, and limits airflow obstruction, improving engine cooling efficiency and reducing fuel consumption.
Implementation Method 1
at least one turbomachine being arranged in said at least one manifold, said at least one turbomachine comprising a tangential fan
Implementation Method 2
said at least one manifold forming a volute of the tangential fan... an air flow can be sucked in by the tangential fan, and an air outlet through which the sucked air flow can be distributed to the tubes
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a ventilation device for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one manifold (5-1, 5-2) for distributing air to the tubes (3), and at least one turbomachine (26) arranged in said at least one manifold (5-1, 5-2), said at least one turbomachine (26) comprising a cross-flow fan (26), and said at least one manifold (5-1, 5-2) forming a volute (30) of the cross-flow fan (26).