Spring Clip Assembly for Vibration-Resistant Heat Exchanger Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connections in vehicle heat exchanger modules are vulnerable to vibrations from moving parts, necessitating robust connections that can withstand such vibrations while maintaining assembly integrity.
Innovation Solution
A clip component with a base, core portion, and spring portion that elastically deforms to secure the connection between elements, featuring a locking mechanism to restrict movement and a resting surface for support, allowing for secure attachment despite vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid connection is used between heat exchanger parts, then the connection strength is improved, but the ability to withstand vibrations is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic spring-based connection that can adapt to vibrations. The spring portion allows controlled movement and deformation in response to vibrational forces, maintaining connection integrity while accommodating dynamic loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring portion is pre-configured to provide cushioning against vibrational forces before they occur. By incorporating elastic elements in advance, the system can absorb and dampen vibration impacts, protecting the connection from damage while maintaining strength.
2Reliability
If a spring-based connection is used to withstand vibrations, then the vibration resistance is improved, but the connection strength is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system combines rigid and elastic elements into a composite structure. The base provides rigid support for strength, while the spring portion adds elastic properties for vibration resistance. This composite approach allows both strength and vibration resistance to coexist.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection is divided into distinct functional segments: a rigid base for structural strength and a flexible spring portion for vibration absorption. This segmentation allows each part to optimize its specific function while working together as an integrated system.
3Reliability
If a robust connection structure is implemented, then the assembly integrity is improved, but the space requirements are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The spring portion functions as a flexible element that provides robust connection functionality without requiring substantial space. The elastic deformation capability allows the connection to maintain integrity while occupying minimal volume compared to rigid robust structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring constant and geometric parameters of the connection are optimized to achieve maximum vibration resistance and assembly integrity within constrained space. By adjusting elastic properties and dimensions, the system achieves robust performance without excessive volume.
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 clip component provides a stable and space-efficient connection that withstands vibrations, reducing the risk of detachment and maintaining assembly integrity with minimal additional space requirements.
Implementation Method 1
the spring portion being adapted to be elastically deformed so as to move between a first position and a second position
Data Source
AI summary
A clip component for cooperation with a hole of a second element, including a base, a core portion protruding from the base in a first direction and a spring portion protruding from the base in the first direction, parallel to the core portion. The spring portion is adapted to be elastically deformed so as to move between a first position and a second position, the second position being such that the spring portion is positioned closer to the core portion than in the first position. The spring portion is adapted to restrict the movement of the second element with respect to the clip component. The core portion includes two side walls extending in a second direction, the spring portion being located at least partially between the two side walls. The base includes a resting surface for supporting the second element.