Heat exchanger module, method for providing the same and motor vehicle system having at least one heat exchanger module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heat exchanger modules for motor vehicle systems require additional costly and complex fluidic connections due to spatial constraints, which are undesirable for installation and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A heat exchanger module with a coupling device that mechanically and fluidically connects the heat exchanger and collector, featuring a sandwich-like arrangement with a connecting plate and multi-channel device, allowing flexible and cost-effective refrigerant flow between channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the collector and heat exchanger are spatially separated to meet installation space dimensions, then the heat exchanger module can be adapted to customer-specified installation spaces, but additional fluidic connections are required which are costly and large in structure
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device integrates multiple functions into a nested structure where the connecting plate with fluidic connections is embedded within the mounting assembly. The collector mounts directly to the heat exchanger through this nested coupling mechanism, eliminating the need for separate external fluidic connections while maintaining spatial adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device merges the mechanical mounting function and fluidic connection function into a single integrated component. The connecting plate serves both as a structural mount and as a fluid conduit, combining what were previously separate functions into one unified element that reduces overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If additional fluidic connections are established between collector and heat exchanger, then functionality is maintained, but the structure becomes larger and more costly
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device merges the mechanical mounting function and fluidic connection function into a single integrated component. The connecting plate serves both as a structural mount and as a fluid conduit, combining what were previously separate functions into one unified element that reduces overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting plate performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for mounting the collector, establishes fluidic connections for refrigerant flow, and serves as a structural bridge between the heat exchanger and collector. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components.
3Ease of manufacture
If the coupling device is arranged sandwich-like between heat exchanger and collector, then flexible and cost-effective connection is achieved, but precise positioning and alignment are required
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device incorporates pre-formed connection interfaces and mounting features that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. The connecting plate includes pre-positioned fluidic ports and mounting holes that align with corresponding features on the heat exchanger and collector, eliminating the need for precise field alignment and simplifying assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is divided into distinct functional segments: the connecting plate for fluidic connections, the mounting structure for mechanical support, and the interface features for alignment. This segmentation allows each part to be manufactured independently with standard tolerances and assembled through straightforward alignment procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a heat exchanger module for an air-conditioning system or a heat pump system, which comprises a heat exchanger for cooling refrigerant, which is penetrated by a refrigerant channel for refrigerant, and a collector for drying and storing refrigerant, which is penetrated by a storage channel for refrigerant. It is substantial that the heat exchanger module, furthermore, comprises a coupling device equipped for the mechanical and fluidic connection of heat exchanger and collector, by way of which in the assembled state of the heat exchanger module, the heat exchanger is mechanically fixed to the collector and the refrigerant channel fluidically connected to the storage channel. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for providing such a heat exchanger module and to a motor vehicle system having at least one such heat exchanger module.