Integrally Molded Venturi Valve for HVAC Vacuum Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
In vehicle HVAC systems, the separate valve and tubular member configuration limits optimal positioning due to mechanical coupling requirements, leading to potential damage and reduced vacuum efficiency, especially when positioned in non-planar areas or areas of turbulence.
Innovation Solution
An integrally formed venturi valve within the HVAC module assembly allows for optimal vacuum creation on planar or non-planar surfaces, eliminating the need for separate mechanical coupling and reducing the risk of damage during assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the valve is mechanically coupled to the HVAC module assembly using separate components and fasteners, then the valve can be attached to the assembly, but the valve may become damaged or loosened during assembly and handling
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is integrally formed as part of the molded HVAC module assembly housing sections, eliminating separate mechanical coupling components. The venturi valve is directly molded into the housing, making it an integral, non-separable part that cannot become loose or damaged during assembly and handling.
2Reliability
If the valve is positioned at a substantially planar surface for proper seating and sealing, then the valve can be mechanically coupled, but the positioning is limited and may place the valve in turbulent flow areas that reduce vacuum efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the valve directly into the molded housing, the valve can be positioned at any location on the housing surface including non-planar areas, eliminating the constraint of requiring a flat mounting surface while maintaining proper sealing through the integral construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The venturi valve is positioned at the optimal location for creating vacuum efficiency, regardless of whether the surface is planar or non-planar. The integral molding allows the valve to be placed in areas of laminar flow rather than turbulence, improving vacuum generation while the molded construction ensures proper sealing at the specific location.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the valve is integrally formed as part of the molded HVAC module assembly, then the valve can be positioned optimally for vacuum creation on any surface type, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The valve and HVAC module housing are manufactured as a single integral molded part, eliminating the need for separate assembly steps involving fasteners or mechanical coupling. This integral construction, while requiring a multi-cavity or complex mold, streamlines production by reducing part count and assembly operations.
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 integrally molded venturi valve enhances vacuum efficiency and secure attachment, enabling better air flow and temperature measurement by positioning the valve optimally within the HVAC module assembly, regardless of surface type, and reduces assembly-related issues.
Implementation Method 1
a valve for creating a vacuum for drawing air through the sensor from the passenger compartment
Implementation Method 2
Forced air from the HVAC mixing chamber to the venturi chamber generates a vacuum within the venturi chamber from the sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A is provided for aspirating air in a HVAC module assembly having a first HVAC module housing section including a first venturi portion. A second HVAC module housing section includes a second venturi portion. The first and second HVAC module housing sections form a HVAC mixing chamber and venturi chamber. The first venturi portion mates with the second venturi portion to cooperatively form the chamber.