Microchannel Heat Exchanger Bend Bracket for Folded Tube Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microchannel heat exchangers, particularly those with folded or ribbon bent configurations, lack effective support systems at both ends, as refrigerant manifolds are often limited to one end, and frames are not cost-effective or feasible for all applications.
Innovation Solution
A support system comprising a support base with fingers extending into gaps between heat exchange tube segments at the bend, providing structural support and securing the heat exchanger at or near the bend, which can be brazed or glued to the tube segments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If frames are used to encapsulate and support the heat exchanger, then support is provided, but cost increases and feasibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is segmented into multiple discrete support brackets positioned at specific locations (ends and bends) rather than using a continuous frame enclosure. This segmentation provides necessary support while reducing material usage and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The support function is extracted from the manifold components and implemented through separate, dedicated support brackets. This allows the manifolds to focus on their primary fluid distribution function while support is handled by specialized components.
2Reliability
If manifolds are used for support, then structural support is provided, but support is limited to locations where manifolds are disposed
Solution Approach 1:
The support brackets are designed to be universal components that can be positioned at multiple locations including ends and bends of the heat exchanger. This multi-location support capability exceeds the limited support coverage provided by manifolds alone.
Solution Approach 2:
Support brackets serve as intermediary components between the heat exchanger structure and mounting surfaces. These brackets can be strategically positioned at bends and ends to provide support where manifolds cannot reach.
3Volume of moving object
If the heat exchanger is bent into folded or ribbon configurations, then space efficiency is improved, but support challenges increase at bends and ends
Solution Approach 1:
Support brackets are pre-positioned at bend locations and ends before final assembly. This preliminary placement ensures that critical support points are established during the bending and assembly process, preventing deformation and ensuring proper configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
Support brackets are strategically positioned at specific locations (bends and ends) where structural support is most needed, rather than uniformly distributing support throughout the entire heat exchanger. This localized support approach addresses the specific structural challenges created by bending while maintaining space efficiency.
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 support system stabilizes the heat exchanger during bending, enhances system robustness, and offers a cost-effective alternative to frames, allowing for efficient installation and operation without relying on manifolds or full enclosures.
Implementation Method 1
a support is positioned at or near the bend, the support including and includes a support base and at least one support finger extending from the support base and into a gap between adjacent heat exchange tube segments
Implementation Method 2
A bend is formed in the plurality of heat exchange tube segments defining a first portion of the heat exchanger located at a first side of the bend, and a second portion of the heat exchanger located at a second side of the bend opposite the first side
Data Source
AI summary
A heat exchanger includes a plurality of heat exchange tube segments defining a plurality of fluid pathways therein and a plurality of fins disposed between adjacent heat exchange tube segments of the plurality of heat exchange tube segments. A bend is formed in the plurality of heat exchange tube segments defining a first portion of the heat exchanger located at a first side of the bend, and a second portion of the heat exchanger located at a second side of the bend opposite the first side. A support is positioned at or near the bend, the support including and includes a support base and at least one support finger extending from the support base and into a gap between adjacent heat exchange tube segments of the plurality of heat exchange tube segments.