Rear Frame Heat Exchanger With Lattice Structure for Weight Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The weight of heat exchange devices and related components in motor vehicles contributes to increased pollution, necessitating a reduction in overall vehicle weight while maintaining effective heat exchange functionality.
Innovation Solution
A rear frame assembly with a transversal element housing a countercurrent heat exchange device featuring a lattice structure manufactured via additive manufacturing, optimizing both heat exchange and structural resistance through the use of different unit cell types, thereby reducing the need for additional stiffening elements and minimizing noble materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If traditional heat exchange devices are used, then heat exchange functionality is ensured, but vehicle weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchange device is integrated into the rear frame assembly, merging two separate components (heat exchanger and frame) into a single unified structure. This eliminates the need for separate mounting brackets and fasteners, reducing overall weight while maintaining both structural support and heat exchange functions
Solution Approach 2:
The rear frame assembly serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the vehicle and simultaneously houses the heat exchange device for thermal management. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, thereby reducing weight while ensuring heat exchange functionality
2Strength
If additional stiffening elements are added, then structural resistance is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lattice structure serves dual purposes as both the housing for the heat exchange device and the stiffening element for the rear frame assembly. This integration eliminates the need for separate stiffening brackets, mounts, and fasteners, reducing component count and complexity while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The lattice structure appears to be made from a composite material or optimized alloy that provides high strength-to-weight ratio. This allows the structure to achieve the required structural resistance without adding excessive weight or complexity
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 solution results in a lighter vehicle weight, improved layout, and enhanced heat exchange efficiency, while allowing for optimized structural resistance and heat exchange performance in different regions of the heat exchange device.
Implementation Method 1
a heat exchange device (12) for the exchange of heat between a first fluid and a second fluid
Implementation Method 2
countercurrent heat exchange device featuring a lattice structure
Data Source
AI summary
A frame assembly for a motor vehicle comprising a transversal element extending crosswise to a longitudinal extension direction of the motor vehicle and a heat exchange device for the exchange of heat between a first fluid and a second fluid. The transversal element comprises a housing, which accommodates, on the inside, the heat exchange device.