Vehicle Cooling Roller Blind With Integrated Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air control systems for vehicle cooling modules are inefficient in controlling airflow and vulnerable to contamination, leading to reduced cooling performance and potential damage from dirt and debris.
Innovation Solution
A roller blind module with a roller blind element and integrated cleaning device, positioned directly on the cooling module, allows for precise airflow control and protection from dirt, using a brush element or liquid/vibration cleaning to maintain the roller blind element's cleanliness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a roller blind module is arranged directly behind the radiator grille to control airflow, then air resistance is reduced and airflow control is improved, but the cooling module becomes vulnerable to contamination from dirt penetrating the space between the blind and the cooling module
Solution Approach 1:
A cleaning device with cleaning elements (brushes, air nozzles, water nozzles) is introduced as an intermediary between the roller blind element and the cooling module. This cleaning device actively removes contaminants that penetrate the gap, preventing damage to the cooling module while maintaining the space-efficient arrangement behind the radiator grille.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning device is integrated into the roller blind module itself, enabling the system to self-maintain by continuously or periodically cleaning the roller blind element and protecting the cooling module. The drive unit that moves the roller blind also powers the cleaning device, allowing the system to service itself without external intervention.
2Ease of operation
If a flap system is used to control cooling air entry, then airflow control is achieved, but the system requires considerable space in the longitudinal direction and deflects airflow suboptimally
Solution Approach 1:
The roller blind element can be dynamically adjusted between a retracted position (first position) and an extended position (second position) that covers the cooling module. This dynamic positioning allows optimal airflow control when extended and minimal space occupation when retracted, unlike fixed or slowly responding flap systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using flaps that extend in the longitudinal direction, the roller blind element is wound onto a winding roller, utilizing a radial dimension for storage. This dimensional change allows the blind to be compact when retracted and effectively cover the cooling module when extended, reducing longitudinal space requirements.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the roller blind element is positioned close to the cooling module for effective protection, then contamination protection is improved, but the cleaning device becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning elements serve multiple functions: they clean the roller blind element, remove contaminants from the cooling module surface, and can be integrated with the drive mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, simplifying the overall device despite the close positioning requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning elements are designed with specific material properties (such as brush bristle hardness, air nozzle pressure characteristics, or water nozzle spray patterns) that allow effective cleaning at close distances without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms. The cleaning parameters are optimized for the specific gap distance.
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 ensures reliable airflow control and protection of the cooling module from contamination, maintaining performance while minimizing maintenance and reducing air resistance.
Implementation Method 1
a cleaning device with at least one cleaning element, by means of which the roller blind element can be cleaned
Implementation Method 2
a brush element as a stripping element
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
The invention relates to a roller blind module (1) for a cooling module (2) of a vehicle, wherein the roller blind module (1) is arranged on the cooling module (2). The roller blind module has: a roller blind element (10); at least one drive (15) by means of which the roller blind element (10) can be rolled from a first position (11) into at least one second position (12), wherein the roller blind element (10) is wound up in the first position (11) and in the second position (12), the roller blind element (10) is arranged in front of the cooling module (2) relative to the driving direction (30) of the vehicle; and a cleaning device (20) with at least one cleaning element (21), wherein the roller blind element (10) can be cleaned by means of the cleaning element (21). The invention further relates to a front end element for a vehicle, having at least one installation carrier, a cooling module (2) that is mounted on the installation carrier and a roller blind module (1) for the cooling module (2).