Heating device composed of heating modules, and heating module for same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heating devices for motor vehicles require high fixed costs for adaptation to different sizes and installation spaces, leading to increased costs due to the need for specialized tools and multiple heating units to achieve uniform heating across various locations.
Innovation Solution
A modular heating device composed of interchangeable heating modules with adjustable size and power, featuring ceramic heating resistors and heat exchangers surrounded by a plastic frame, allowing for flexible assembly and connection using integrated electrical plug contacts, reducing manufacturing and logistical costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If heating devices are adapted to different sizes and installation spaces, then the heating solution becomes versatile and applicable to various vehicle types, but the fixed costs and manufacturing complexity increase due to requiring specialized tools and custom adaptations
Solution Approach 1:
The heating device is divided into multiple identical heating modules that can be combined in different quantities (1-10 modules) to create heating devices of various sizes and power outputs. Each module contains standardized heating elements and connection interfaces, allowing simple scaling without custom manufacturing for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
A single standardized heating module design serves multiple functions and applications across different vehicle types and installation spaces. The universal module can be used in headrest heaters, seat heaters, footwell heaters, or central heaters by simply changing the number of modules assembled, eliminating the need for application-specific tooling and designs.
2Reliability
If multiple heating units are used to heat different locations in the vehicle interior, then comprehensive heating coverage is achieved, but the costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple identical heating modules distributed at different locations in the vehicle interior, each providing localized heating. The modules are standardized and can be independently assembled, maintaining cost-effectiveness while achieving comprehensive heating coverage through strategic placement rather than using different types of heating units.
3Ease of manufacture
If heating modules are manufactured in large numbers with standardized design, then manufacturing and logistical costs are reduced, but the adaptability to specific vehicle requirements must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The heating device is segmented into standardized modules that can be manufactured in large quantities using identical processes and tools. The final customization is achieved simply by assembling the appropriate number of modules (1-10) rather than manufacturing custom devices, thereby maintaining low production costs while meeting specific vehicle requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic configuration of heating devices by varying the number of modules assembled in a heating unit. This enables flexible adaptation to different power requirements and installation spaces without requiring different manufacturing processes, maintaining economies of scale while providing customization.
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
Enables cost-effective and adaptable heating solutions for motor vehicles, from individual air outlets to central heaters, with improved mechanical stability and reduced costs by allowing for scalable and modular design.
Implementation Method 1
The heating resistor(s) and the heat exchanger(s) are surrounded by a rectangular frame of the heating module... one or more heating resistors and one or more heat exchangers in order to deliver heat generated by the heating resistor or the heating resistors to an airflow
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a heating device for heating the interior of a motor vehicle, comprising a plurality of heating modules arranged in at least one heating unit, each heating module comprising at least one heating resistor, at least one heat exchanger configured for delivering heat generated by the heating resistor to an airflow, and a rectangular frame surrounding the at least one heating resistor and the at least one heat exchanger, each frame having openings in opposed frame legs, wherein in the at least one heating unit the frame legs, comprising openings, of adjacent heating modules face one another and electrical connection elements reaching through the openings electrically connect the heating modules to one another.