Segmented Air Conditioning Connection Device for Weight Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection devices for air conditioning loops are monolithic, leading to a lack of standardization and increased manufacturing costs, as well as being heavy due to their thickness, which is a drawback for motor vehicle applications.
Innovation Solution
A connection device composed of two separate parts: an internal part with standard-shaped flanges for the heat exchanger and an external part with adaptable end pieces for other components, allowing for pre-assembly and welding to form a flexible, lightweight interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a monolithic connection device is used, then the connection is secure and simple to manufacture, but the device is heavy and lacks adaptability to different configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is divided into two separate parts: an internal part that integrates with the heat exchanger and an external part that connects to other air conditioning components. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently - the internal part maintains standardization while the external part provides adaptability to different component configurations, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
2Weight of moving object
If a monolithic connection device is used, then the structure is simple, but the weight is high due to the thickness required for strength
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the connection device into internal and external parts, each part can be optimized for its specific function. The internal part can be thinner since it connects to the standardized heat exchanger, while the external part provides the necessary structural strength for connecting to various components. This reduces overall weight while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal and external parts are joined together through welding or brazing to form a unified connection device. This merging maintains the structural integrity and strength required for secure connections while allowing each part to be optimized independently for weight reduction.
3Weight of moving object
If the connection device is made from a single block of high-thickness aluminum, then the connection is strong, but the weight increases significantly for motor vehicle applications
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is segmented into two parts that are joined together, allowing thin-walled construction while maintaining reliability. The internal part integrates with the heat exchanger and the external part connects to other components, with the joint between parts providing the necessary structural continuity for reliable operation in motor vehicle applications.
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 enables standardization and reduces manufacturing costs by allowing adaptation to various configurations, while minimizing weight and ensuring a secure, tight connection, thus improving the connection device's flexibility and reducing mass.
Implementation Method 1
said parts being fixed against each other... partially joined to each other by means of one of their adjacent edges
Implementation Method 2
said parts being fixed against each other... partially joined to each other by means of one of their adjacent edges
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device (4) for connection between a component (2) of an air-conditioning loop (1) and a heat exchanger (3), including at least one channel (6.1, 6.2) through which a fluid (9.1, 9.2) can flow, characterized in that said device includes an inner part (11) having at least one collar (12.1, 12.2) at least partially defining said channel (10.1, 10.2) and capable of engaging with an opening (6.1, 6.2) of said exchanger (3), and an outer part (15) mounted against the inner part (11), having at least one end piece (16.1, 16.2) at least partially defining said channel (10.1, 10.2) and capable of engaging with an opening of said component (2). The present invention also relates to a heat exchanger provided with such a connection device.