One-Way Vented Screen Assembly for Work Vehicle Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cooling systems for work vehicles are prone to debris accumulation in the front screen, which blocks airflow and prevents debris under the hood from being expelled, leading to inefficiencies in air circulation and debris removal.
Innovation Solution
A one-way vented screen assembly with pivotally coupled flaps that move between closed and opened positions based on airflow direction, allowing debris to be vented out regardless of airflow direction, utilizing a reversible fan system and auxiliary screen assemblies to manage airflow and debris expulsion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a front screen is used to prevent debris from entering the work vehicle, then debris protection is improved, but the screen becomes blocked with debris over time, worsening airflow
Solution Approach 1:
The screen assembly incorporates movable flaps that can dynamically change position between open and closed states based on airflow direction. During normal operation, flaps remain closed to block debris. During reverse airflow, flaps open to allow debris ejection, enabling the system to adapt to different operational phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The screen assembly is divided into multiple segments including the main screen, movable flaps, and separate vent openings. This segmentation allows different portions to perform specialized functions: the screen blocks debris during intake, while separate vent openings with flaps enable debris ejection during reverse flow without compromising the main screen's protective function.
2Productivity
If a reversible fan is used to clear debris from the screen, then screen cleaning is improved, but debris contained within the cooling package remains trapped, worsening debris removal
Solution Approach 1:
The ventilation system is segmented into multiple ejection paths: front screen vents with flaps for debris ejection during reverse flow, and auxiliary screen vents with separate flaps for additional ejection capability. This segmentation ensures debris can be expelled through multiple routes rather than being trapped in a single cooling package.
Solution Approach 2:
Movable flaps act as intermediaries between the cooling package interior and the external environment. These flaps selectively open to create temporary ejection channels during reverse airflow, mediating the transition of debris from the enclosed cooling package to the external environment without compromising the sealed structure during normal operation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the screen is sealed to prevent debris entry, then debris protection is improved, but no provision is made for debris ejection, worsening debris accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The screen assembly transitions from a static sealed structure to a dynamic system with movable flaps that respond to airflow direction. During normal forward airflow, flaps remain closed maintaining the sealed protective function. During reverse airflow, flaps open dynamically to create ejection pathways, allowing the same structure to serve both protection and ejection functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes periodic alternation between forward cooling operation and reverse airflow cleaning cycles. During each forward operation phase, the screen remains sealed for protection. During periodic reverse airflow phases, flaps open to eject accumulated debris, creating a rhythmic cycle of accumulation and clearance that maintains overall system efficiency.
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
Ensures effective airflow and debris removal by sealing debris out during intake and expelling it during reverse airflow, maintaining system efficiency and preventing blockages.
Implementation Method 1
a fan configured to generate an airflow in both a first direction, wherein air is drawn into the hood enclosure through the front screen and flows through the heat exchanger, and a second direction, wherein air is directed through the heat exchanger and out of the hood enclosure through the front screen
Implementation Method 2
air is drawn into the hood enclosure through the front screen and flows through the heat exchanger
Implementation Method 3
a flap pivotally coupled to the screen at the flap opening. The flap may be configured to be moved to a closed position when the airflow through the screen is in a first direction and to an opened position when the airflow through the screen is in a second direction
Data Source
AI summary
A screen assembly for a work vehicle is disclosed. The screen assembly may generally include a screen defining a plurality of screen openings for receiving an airflow therethrough. In addition, the screen may define a flap opening. The screen assembly may also include a flap pivotally coupled to the screen at the flap opening. The flap may be configured to be moved to a closed position when the airflow through the screen is in a first direction and to an opened position when the airflow through the screen is in a second direction.