Modular Heat Exchanger Assembly for Variable Article Shapes

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing heat exchanging devices are inflexible and inefficient when dealing with varying shapes and states of processed articles, leading to increased space requirements and costs, and a need for automated replacement systems.

Innovation Solution

A modular heat exchanger system comprising interchangeable heat exchanger modules with adjustable flow paths and engagement mechanisms, allowing for customizable configuration based on the shape and state of the processed article, and an automated assembly system for efficient reconfiguration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a different heat exchanging device is used for each shape and state of processed article, then heat exchange effectiveness is improved, but space occupation and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different article shapesVSAvoidspace occupation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The heat exchanger module is designed with a universal structure that can handle multiple shapes and states of processed articles through interchangeable flow path bodies and configurable engagement bodies, allowing one module to perform multiple functions that previously required separate devices

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The heat exchanger module is divided into separable components including first and second heat exchanging bodies, multiple interchangeable flow path bodies, and configurable engagement bodies, enabling flexible reconfiguration for different article shapes without replacing the entire device

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a different heat exchanging device is used for each shape and state of processed article, then heat exchange effectiveness is improved, but cost and processing yield increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different article shapesVSAvoidcost and processing yield

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

A single heat exchanger module design serves multiple article types through configurable components, reducing the need to manufacture and stock multiple specialized devices, thereby lowering overall manufacturing costs and improving processing yield

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Flow path bodies and engagement bodies can be easily detached and replaced based on article requirements, allowing the same base module to be reused across different applications rather than discarding entire devices

Inventive Principle:

Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Adaptability or versatility

If heat exchanger modules are manually configured for different articles, then adaptability is achieved, but automation capability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecustomizable configurationVSAvoidautomated replacement capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The engagement bodies incorporate movable and adjustable components that enable dynamic reconfiguration of flow path bodies based on detected article characteristics, transitioning from static manual configuration to dynamic automated adaptation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The heat exchanger module includes detection capabilities that automatically identify article shape and state, and the engagement mechanism autonomously configures the appropriate flow path body without requiring manual intervention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 modular system enables flexible heat exchange capabilities, reducing space and cost requirements while enabling automated adaptation to different article shapes and states, improving processing efficiency and automation.

Implementation Method 1

a first heat exchanging body including at least one first through hole; and a second heat exchanging body including at least one second through hole, the second heat exchanging body configured to be coupled to the first heat exchanging body

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS11754350B2Heat exchanger module, assembly-type heat exchanger including heat exchanger module, and heat exchanger assembly system

Publication Date: 2023.09.12 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A heat exchanger module includes a first heat exchanging body including at least one first through hole and a second heat exchanging body including at least one second through hole. The second heat exchanging body is configured to be coupled to the first heat exchanging body, and an accommodation hole is provided between the first heat exchanging body and the second heat exchanging body by the first heat exchanging body and the second heat exchanging body being coupled together.