Vehicle HVAC Control Module Mounting on Motor Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing HVAC systems for vehicles face challenges in implementing a 'quarter-turn' locking system for control modules due to space constraints, which also lead to increased harness length affecting electromagnetic compatibility and degrading acoustic and aeraulic performance.
Innovation Solution
A system where the control module is installed between the ring of the motor support and a bearing surface, allowing for a 'quarter-turn' locking mechanism while minimizing harness length, with a housing design that enables partial rotation and effective cooling, and uses a bayonet system for screwless assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the control module is mounted at the air inlet level, then the module can be easily accessed, but the harness length increases significantly degrading electromagnetic compatibility
Solution Approach 1:
The control module is repositioned from the air inlet level to the motor support structure, changing its spatial location to a different dimension. This allows the module to be mounted close to the motor (reducing harness length) while still being accessible through the housing structure.
2Length of moving object
If the control module is mounted in the volute, then the harness length is reduced, but the acoustic and aeraulic performance is greatly degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting location is segmented into specific zones: the control module is mounted on the motor support structure but positioned outside the volute airflow path. This segmentation allows the module to be close to the motor (short harness) while excluding it from the harmful airflow and acoustic zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor support structure acts as an intermediary mounting platform. It provides a location that is spatially close to the motor (reducing harness length) but positioned such that the control module does not interfere with volute airflow or acoustic performance.
3Strength
If the motor support is fixed with screws, then the connection is secure, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The screw-based mechanical fastening system is replaced with a snap-fit or clip-based mechanical system. The control module housing includes engagement features that snap into corresponding features on the motor support, providing secure connection without requiring threaded fasteners or tools.
4Ease of manufacture
If a circular housing is provided in the volute for quarter-turn locking, then screwless assembly is enabled, but space constraints prevent control module mounting
Solution Approach 1:
The control module mounting is relocated from the volute housing to the motor support structure. This dimensional relocation allows the circular quarter-turn locking mechanism to remain in the volute for screwless assembly, while the control module finds space on the motor support where it does not interfere with the circular housing.
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
This design simplifies assembly, reduces manufacturing costs, enhances electromagnetic compatibility, and maintains acoustic and aeraulic performance by keeping the control module close to the motor for efficient cooling and reduced pressure drops.
Implementation Method 1
The housing is formed between a ring of the motor support surrounding the motor and a bearing surface of the motor support connected to the ring and adapted to be in contact with the volute
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(a)
Figure 2(b)
AI summary
The present invention concerns a system for a heating, ventilation or air conditioning device of a vehicle comprising: – an electric motor (210); – a motor support (208, 205, 203) attached to the motor (210), said motor support being suitable for being installed in an opening formed on a volute (204) of the heating, ventilation or air-conditioning device; – a control module (201) for controlling the electric motor; in which the control module (201) is installed on the motor support (208, 205, 203) in a housing (207), said housing (207) being formed between a ring (205) of said motor support (208, 205, 203) surrounding the motor (210) and a bearing surface (202) of said motor support (208, 205, 203) linked to the ring (205) and designed to be in contact with the volute.