Washer Fluid Heater Outlet Layout to Prevent Heater Exposure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Washer fluid heating devices face issues with air layer formation and potential damage due to freezing when the vehicle is inclined or the device is obliquely mounted, leading to exposure of the heater and risk of damage from expanding washer fluid.
Innovation Solution
The washer fluid heating device features a container with a dual-outlet outflow pipe system, where the first outlet is positioned between the heater and the container's end, and the second outlet is between the heater and the side wall, allowing for flexible installation directions and preventing heater exposure and damage by maintaining a liquid level above the heater, even when the device is tilted.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an outflow passage is open in a heating chamber, then the washer fluid can flow out and be heated, but an air layer forms at the upper side causing the heater to be exposed when the vehicle is inclined or the device is obliquely mounted
Solution Approach 1:
The outflow passage is configured to extend in multiple directions (upward and sideways) rather than a single direction, allowing the outlet to be positioned in a three-dimensional space that maintains submersion of the heater regardless of the container's orientation. This multi-directional approach ensures the outlet remains above the heater in various mounting configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system accommodates dynamic changes in container orientation by positioning the outlet at strategic locations that maintain effectiveness whether the container is vertical, horizontal, or inclined. The outlet placement adapts to gravitational effects in different orientations to prevent heater exposure.
2Loss of energy
If the washer fluid heating device is turned OFF for a long period, then energy is saved, but the washer fluid may freeze and expand causing damage to the container
Solution Approach 1:
The container is designed with built-in expansion space above the outlet that can accommodate the volume increase of freezing washer fluid. This pre-configured cushioning space prevents damage to the container and heating device when the fluid freezes during extended OFF periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The design anticipates the harmful effect of freezing by providing an expansion accommodation space that counteracts the damaging pressure buildup from ice formation, thereby preventing structural damage before it occurs.
3Productivity
If the heater is exposed from the washer fluid, then no-water burning occurs, but the heater life is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet is positioned and configured to maintain a liquid level above the heater before any inclination or operation occurs. This preliminary positioning ensures the heater remains submerged during operation, preventing no-water burning and extending heater lifespan.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the container is vertically disposed, then the first outlet maintains liquid level above heater, but the second outlet position must be optimized for horizontal disposal
Solution Approach 1:
The outflow passage is designed with multiple outlets positioned at different locations and angles, allowing the same heating device to function effectively whether mounted vertically, horizontally, or at intermediate angles. Each outlet serves the function of maintaining liquid level above the heater in different orientations.
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
This configuration prevents no-water burning and damage to the container by ensuring the heater remains submerged and allows for flexible installation orientations, reducing the risk of damage from freezing and expansion.
Implementation Method 1
an electric heater is accommodated inside the heating chamber
Implementation Method 2
the washer fluid may freeze while the washer fluid heating device is turned OFF
Implementation Method 3
there is a concern that the washer fluid heating device may be damaged by the freezing and expanding washer fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A washer fluid heating device includes a container that contains a washer fluid, a lid portion attached to a first end of the container in a direction of a central axis to face an accommodation space for the washer fluid, a heating unit that has a proximal end portion attached to the lid portion and extends toward the accommodation space, and an outflow pipe disposed in the accommodation space to allow the washer fluid in the accommodation space to flow out. The outflow pipe includes a first outlet provided at a position between a second end opposite to the first end of the container and the heating unit, the position being separated from the second end, and a second outlet provided at a position between a side wall of the container and the heating unit, the position being separated from the side wall.