Heat exchanger module with a bracket for holding a receiver drier

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing solutions for attaching a receiver drier bottle to a heat exchanger in automotive air conditioning systems either consume excessive space or require modifications to the system, and fail to adequately address vibration-induced damage.

Innovation Solution

A heat exchanger module with a frame and dual attachment means that securely fasten the bottle to the frame at two portions, using connection means that restrict movement and absorb vibrations, allowing for compact installation without altering the system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the bottle is attached to the heat exchanger by a single attachment means, then the structure is simple, but the bottle vibrates and causes damage to the junction

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment structureVSAvoidjunction integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment structure is divided into two separate attachment means: a first attachment means (mounting bracket) that connects the bottle to the heat exchanger, and a second attachment means that connects the bottle to the frame. This segmentation distributes the vibration forces and provides redundant support, preventing damage to any single junction while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If existing solutions are used to prevent bottle vibration, then vibration damage is reduced, but space consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevibration protectionVSAvoidspace consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The second attachment means is integrated into the existing frame structure of the heat exchanger module. The frame serves dual purposes: structural support for the heat exchanger and mounting structure for the bottle. This merging eliminates the need for additional separate vibration protection components, achieving vibration protection without increasing space consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If the bottle is securely fastened to prevent movement, then vibration damage is prevented, but the system requires modification

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebottle stabilityVSAvoidsystem compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The frame structure is designed with multi-functionality: it provides structural support for the heat exchanger, defines the module geometry, and serves as a mounting structure for the bottle via the second attachment means. This universal design allows the bottle to be securely fastened without requiring modifications to the heat exchanger or other system components, maintaining compatibility with standard AC systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3444545B1Heat exchanger module with a bracket for holding a receiver drier

Publication Date: 2025.06.25 VALEO AUTOSYSTY

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Figure 5~6

AI summary

A heat exchanging module (1) comprising a heat exchanger (2), a frame (4) and a bottle (6), the heat exchanger (2) being attached to the frame (4), the bottle (6) being attached to the heat exchanger (2) by a first attachment mean (8) at a first portion (60) of the bottle (6), the bottle (6) being attached to the frame (4) with a second attachment mean (10) located at a second portion (62) of the bottle (6).