US20060196647A1 - Heat Exchanger Having an Integral Air Guide - Google Patents
Heat Exchanger Having an Integral Air Guide Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060196647A1 US20060196647A1 US10/906,699 US90669905A US2006196647A1 US 20060196647 A1 US20060196647 A1 US 20060196647A1 US 90669905 A US90669905 A US 90669905A US 2006196647 A1 US2006196647 A1 US 2006196647A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- heat exchanger
- extension member
- header
- headers
- radiator
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D1/00—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators
- F28D1/02—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators with heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid
- F28D1/04—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators with heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid with tubular conduits
- F28D1/0408—Multi-circuit heat exchangers, e.g. integrating different heat exchange sections in the same unit or heat exchangers for more than two fluids
- F28D1/0426—Multi-circuit heat exchangers, e.g. integrating different heat exchange sections in the same unit or heat exchangers for more than two fluids with units having particular arrangement relative to the large body of fluid, e.g. with interleaved units or with adjacent heat exchange units in common air flow or with units extending at an angle to each other or with units arranged around a central element
- F28D1/0435—Combination of units extending one behind the other
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F1/00—Tubular elements; Assemblies of tubular elements
- F28F1/10—Tubular elements and assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with projections, with recesses
- F28F1/12—Tubular elements and assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with projections, with recesses the means being only outside the tubular element
- F28F1/14—Tubular elements and assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with projections, with recesses the means being only outside the tubular element and extending longitudinally
- F28F1/16—Tubular elements and assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with projections, with recesses the means being only outside the tubular element and extending longitudinally the means being integral with the element, e.g. formed by extrusion
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F9/00—Casings; Header boxes; Auxiliary supports for elements; Auxiliary members within casings
- F28F9/02—Header boxes; End plates
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01P—COOLING OF MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; COOLING OF INTERNAL-COMBUSTION ENGINES
- F01P11/00—Component parts, details, or accessories not provided for in, or of interest apart from, groups F01P1/00 - F01P9/00
- F01P11/10—Guiding or ducting cooling-air, to, or from, liquid-to-air heat exchangers
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F9/00—Casings; Header boxes; Auxiliary supports for elements; Auxiliary members within casings
- F28F9/02—Header boxes; End plates
- F28F2009/0285—Other particular headers or end plates
- F28F2009/0292—Other particular headers or end plates with fins
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F2230/00—Sealing means
Definitions
- the present invention relates to the field of air management in a vehicular front end. More specifically, the present invention relates to a heat exchanger for a vehicle having an air guide.
- a motor vehicle such as an automobile, truck, and the like, typically has an engine compartment located at the front of the vehicle.
- a radiator that is part of the engine's cooling system, is typically mounted in front of the engine in the engine compartment.
- a condenser mounts in front of the radiator. The condenser and radiator are cooled by air that passes through them. The air may be forced through the condenser and radiator by ram air effect when the vehicle is in forward motion, and/or by being drawn through the condenser and radiator by a cooling fan typically located directly behind the radiator.
- FIG. 1 shows a perspective exploded view of a portion of an engine compartment of a vehicle 20 .
- the engine compartment is schematically portrayed in FIG. 1 and is generally referred to as engine compartment 22 which contains an engine 24 , also portrayed schematically.
- a first heat exchanger in the form of a radiator 26 for engine 24 , is disposed in front of engine 24 , and a cooling fan 28 is located between radiator 26 and engine 24 .
- Seals 32 are typically positioned between condenser 30 and radiator 26 . Seals 32 form a tight seal between condenser 30 and radiator 26 so that air forced through condenser 30 is pulled through radiator 26 , rather than around radiator 26 . The flow of air around radiator 26 can result in inefficient cooling of engine 24 , which can lead to undesirable and potentially damaging overheating of engine 24 . In addition, seals 32 function to prevent the build-up of debris between the front of radiator 26 and the back of condenser 30 . Debris in this area undesirably obstructs the flow of air through radiator 26 which again can lead to overheating of engine 24 .
- Condenser 30 generally includes a plurality of condenser tubes 34 extending between a first header 36 and a second header 38 , each of which have a generally circular cross-section.
- First and second headers 36 and 38 feed high-pressure refrigerant from the compressor (not shown) into condenser tubes 34 where it is cooled until it returns to its liquid state, in accordance with well known methodologies.
- Insufficient heat rejection at condenser 30 can cause an increase in head pressure of the air conditioning system, thereby reducing air conditioner cooling performance.
- An increase in head pressure can additionally increase the power consumption of the air conditioning compressor thereby reducing gas mileage.
- Insufficient heat rejection at radiator 26 can reduce engine cooling system performance, thereby resulting in elevated temperatures in engine compartment 22 . These elevated temperatures may be sufficiently high to create thermally induced problems in certain components of the vehicle.
- seals 32 between condenser 30 and radiator 26 can be breached or can fall off due to moisture, salt, heat, cold, adhesive issues, and age-related issues.
- the failure of seals 32 can lead to further airflow inefficiencies through radiator 26 , and can lead to the undesirable accumulation of debris between condenser 30 and radiator 26 .
- a heat exchanger for a vehicle is provided that facilitates airflow through the heat exchanger.
- Another advantage of the present invention is that a heat exchanger, in the form of a condenser, is provided that enhances heat rejection by the condenser and an adjacent radiator.
- Another advantage of the present invention is that a heat exchanger, in the form of a condenser, is provided that eliminates utilization of a separate sealing element between the condenser and an adjacent radiator.
- a heat exchanger that includes a first header, a second header, and a plurality of tubes extending between the first and second headers.
- An extension member projects from, and is longitudinally oriented, along one of the first and second headers.
- the above and other advantages of the present invention are carried out in another form by a heat exchanger configured for installation in a vehicle.
- the heat exchanger includes a first header, a second header, and a plurality of tubes extending between the first and second headers.
- a first extension member projects from, and is longitudinally oriented along, a frontward facing side of the first header, and a second extension member projects from, and is longitudinally oriented along, the frontward facing side of the second header.
- the above and other advantages of the present invention are carried out in yet another form by a heat exchanger configured for installation in a vehicle.
- the heat exchanger includes a first header, a second header, and a plurality of tubes extending between the first and second headers.
- a first extension member projects from, and is longitudinally oriented along, a rearward facing side of the first header, and a second extension member projects from, and is longitudinally oriented along, the rearward facing side of the second header.
- FIG. 1 shows an exploded perspective view of a portion of an engine compartment of a vehicle
- FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a heat exchanger in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a header of the heat exchanger of FIG.2 ;
- FIG. 4 shows an exploded perspective view of a portion of an engine compartment of a vehicle including the heat exchanger of FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the heat exchanger proximate a radiator
- FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a heat exchanger in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a header of the heat exchanger of FIGS. 2 and 6 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of a header of the heat exchanger of FIGS. 2 and 6 in accordance with another alternative embodiment of the present invention.
- the present invention entails a guide for improving air management through a heat exchanger. This improvement in air management is described in connection with heat exchangers found in the front end of vehicles. These heat exchangers include, for example, a condenser and a radiator. However, it will become apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be adapted for various heat exchanger designs, and is not limited to heat exchangers for use in vehicles.
- FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a heat exchanger 40 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a first header 42 of heat exchanger 40
- FIG. 4 shows an exploded perspective view of a portion of engine compartment 22 of vehicle 20 including heat exchanger 40 .
- heat exchanger 40 is a condenser for a vehicle air conditioning system, the remaining components of which are not shown. As such the heat exchanger illustrated in FIGS. 2-4 will be referred to hereinafter as condenser 40 .
- condenser 40 can readily replace condenser 30 of vehicle 20 , illustrated in FIG. 1 . Accordingly, comparable components from FIG. 1 retain the same reference numerals in FIG. 4 .
- Condenser 40 includes first header 42 and a second header 44 .
- a plurality of tubes 46 extends between first and second headers 42 and 44 , respectively, for passing refrigerant between first and second headers 42 and 44 .
- First header 42 includes a first extension member 48 projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, a frontward facing side 50 of first header 42 .
- second header 44 includes a second extension member 52 projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, frontward facing side 50 of second header 44 .
- First header 42 further includes a third extension member 54 projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, a rearward facing side 56 of first header 42 .
- second header 44 includes a fourth extension member 58 projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, rearward facing side 56 of second header 44 .
- frontward facing side generally refers to the side of condenser 40 that faces frontward in vehicle 20
- rearward facing side generally refers to the side of condenser 40 that faces backward, or toward engine 24 , in vehicle 20 .
- first and third extension members 48 and 54 project from first header 42 substantially perpendicular relative to tubes 46 , as most clearly illustrated in FIG. 3 .
- third extension member 54 diametrically opposes first extension member 48 on an outer surface 60 of first header 42 . That is, first and third extension members 48 and 54 , respectively, are located on opposite sides, and along the diameter of first header 42 .
- second and fourth extension members 52 and 58 project from second header 44 substantially perpendicular relative to tubes 46 , and fourth extension member 58 diametrically opposes second extension member 52 on an outer surface 62 of second header 44 .
- first and second headers 42 and 44 may be formed from two sections that are bonded together.
- first header 42 includes a first section 64 from which first extension member 48 extends, and a second section 66 from which third extension member 54 extends.
- First section 64 has a first pair of longitudinally oriented edges 68
- second section 66 has a second pair of longitudinally oriented edges 70 .
- First and second pairs of edges 68 and 70 can be welded, brazed, or otherwise adhered to one another during manufacturing to form first header 42 .
- first and second headers 42 and 44 may be shaped into a continuous form utilizing a conventional extrusion manufacturing technique. The outcome of either of the manufacturing techniques is first and third extension members 48 and 54 , respectively, integrally formed with first header 42 , and second and fourth extension members 52 and 58 integrally formed with second header 44 .
- FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of condenser 40 proximate radiator 26 .
- radiator 26 is positioned proximate rearward facing side 56
- third and fourth extension members 54 and 58 extend toward radiator 26 .
- third and fourth extension members 54 and 58 form a seal between first and second headers 42 and 44 , respectively, and radiator 26 . Consequently, third and fourth extension members 54 and 58 can be utilized in place of seals 32 ( FIG. 1 ).
- greater durability of the sealing mechanism is achieved through the utilization of third and fourth extension members 54 and 58 that are integral to first and second headers 42 and 44 , respectively.
- cost savings are achieved, through the elimination of the material cost of seals 32 and the labor cost for installation of seals 32 .
- vapor refrigerant is compressed in the compressor, where its temperature is raised above the temperature of the cooling medium used at the condenser. Vaporized refrigerant then enters condenser 40 , and into tubes 46 , where heat is rejected from the refrigerant, and the refrigerant changes to a liquid. The liquid refrigerant subsequently exits from condenser 40 and enters a thermal expansion valve (not shown), which controls the quantity of liquid refrigerant passing to the evaporator coils (not shown). Finally, the liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator and evaporates.
- the now vaporized refrigerant is then directed to the compressor to be recycled through the system.
- First and second extension members 48 and 52 serve as guides to direct airflow entering at the front of vehicle 20 through condenser 40 at frontward facing side 50 , rather than around condenser 40 .
- Third and fourth extension members 54 and 58 seal the gap between condenser 40 and radiator 26 , and guide airflow from condenser 40 through radiator 26 , rather than around radiator 26 .
- First and second extension members 48 and 52 facilitate an increase in airflow through condenser 40 and, correspondingly, radiator 26 over prior art systems, such as condenser 30 ( FIG. 1 ).
- An increase of airflow through condenser 40 and radiator 26 improves vehicle air conditioning system and engine cooling system performance, especially in low-speed and/or high-load operating conditions, when the vehicle is traveling in “stop-and-go” conditions, and when the vehicle is simply idling. More specifically, increased airflow through condenser 40 and radiator 26 results in higher heat rejection from condenser 40 and radiator 26 .
- condenser 40 has both frontward facing first and second extension members 48 and 52 , respectively, and rearward facing third and fourth extension members 54 and 58 , respectively.
- a condenser may include frontward facing first and second extension members 48 and 52 , but not rearward facing third and fourth extension members 54 and 58 .
- the conventional seals 32 FIG. 1
- a condenser might include rearward facing third and fourth extension members 54 and 58 , but not the frontward facing first and second extension members 48 and 52 , so as to replace the less durable conventional seals 32 .
- FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of condenser 40 in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention.
- Condenser 40 has been modified to illustrate an additional feature of the present invention.
- each of first extension member 48 of first header 42 and second extension member 52 of second header 44 has been modified to include a fastening portion 72 .
- Fastening portion 72 is a region on each of first and second extension members 48 and 52 that is configured to enable attachment of a separate structure.
- Fastening portion 72 may include holes, clip nuts, indentations, and so forth that facilitate the attachment of a separate structure.
- the separate structure is an oil cooler 73 .
- Oil cooler 73 is a small heat exchanger that is utilized to cool the engine oil or the automatic transmission fluid. As air passes through oil cooler 73 , heat from the oil is rejected to the air. Accordingly, oil cooler 73 can benefit from increased heat rejection produced utilizing first and second extension members 48 and 52 for managing airflow through oil cooler 73 , and correspondingly, condenser 40 and radiator 26 .
- Other structures may optionally be coupled to first and second extension members 48 and 52 , such as fluid supply lines, and the like.
- FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a header 74 for condenser 40 ( FIG. 2 ) in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
- Header 74 may be utilized in place of first header 42 . It should be understood however, that replacement of second header 44 ( FIG. 2 ) with a header having the features of header 74 , will be a mirror image of header 74 .
- a first extension member 76 projects from, and extends longitudinally along frontward facing side 50 of header 74 .
- a second extension member 78 projects from, and extends longitudinally along rearward facing side 56 of header 74 .
- first extension member 76 projects in such a direction so as to form an acute angle 80 between first extension member 76 and tubes 46 (shown in ghost form).
- Such a configuration may effectively channel airflow through condenser 40 ( FIG. 2 ), while concurrently addressing space design considerations within engine compartment 22 ( FIG. 4 ).
- FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of a header 82 for the condenser 40 ( FIG. 2 ) in accordance with another alternative embodiment of the present invention.
- Header 82 may also be utilized in place of first header 42 . It should be understood however, that replacement of second header 44 ( FIG. 2 ) with a header in accordance with the features of header 82 , will be a mirror image of header 82 .
- a first extension member 84 projects from, and extends longitudinally along frontward facing side 50 of header 82 .
- a second extension member 86 projects from, and extends longitudinally along rearward facing side 56 of header 82 .
- first extension member 84 projects in such a direction so as to form an obtuse angle 88 between first extension member 84 and tubes 46 (shown in ghost form).
- Such a configuration may serve to funnel additional air through condenser 40 and radiator 26 ( FIG. 2 ) to further enhance heat rejection, when there is enough space to accommodate the outwardly flared first extension member 84 .
- the present invention teaches of a heat exchanger for a vehicle that facilitates airflow through the heat exchanger.
- the heat exchanger in the form of a condenser, includes extension members projecting from a frontward facing side of the headers that improve airflow through the condenser and an adjacent radiator to enhance heat rejection by same.
- the heat exchanger includes extension members projecting from a rearward facing side of the headers that form a durable seal between the condenser and the adjacent radiator, so that separate sealing elements need not be employed.
- the vehicular radiator may include extension sections that funnel, or channel, airflow through the radiator.
- extension members integral to the headers may be adapted for use with a variety of heat exchangers.
Abstract
A heat exchanger (40) includes a first header (42), a second header (44), and a plurality of tubes (46) extending between the first and second headers (42, 44). First and second extension members (48, 52) project from and are longitudinally oriented along a frontward facing side (50) of the headers (42, 44). The first and second extension members (48, 52) serve as guides for facilitating airflow through the heat exchanger (40). Third and fourth extension members (54, 58) project from and are longitudinally oriented along a rearward facing side (56) of the headers (42, 44). The third and fourth extension members (54, 58) serve to seal a gap between the heat exchanger (40) and an adjacent radiator (26), and guide airflow from the heat exchanger (40) through the radiator (26).
Description
- The present invention relates to the field of air management in a vehicular front end. More specifically, the present invention relates to a heat exchanger for a vehicle having an air guide.
- A motor vehicle, such as an automobile, truck, and the like, typically has an engine compartment located at the front of the vehicle. A radiator, that is part of the engine's cooling system, is typically mounted in front of the engine in the engine compartment. When the vehicle is equipped with air conditioning, a condenser mounts in front of the radiator. The condenser and radiator are cooled by air that passes through them. The air may be forced through the condenser and radiator by ram air effect when the vehicle is in forward motion, and/or by being drawn through the condenser and radiator by a cooling fan typically located directly behind the radiator.
-
FIG. 1 shows a perspective exploded view of a portion of an engine compartment of avehicle 20. The engine compartment is schematically portrayed inFIG. 1 and is generally referred to asengine compartment 22 which contains anengine 24, also portrayed schematically. A first heat exchanger, in the form of aradiator 26 forengine 24, is disposed in front ofengine 24, and acooling fan 28 is located betweenradiator 26 andengine 24. A second heat exchanger, in the form of acondenser 30 for a vehicular air conditioning system, is disposed in front ofradiator 26. -
Seals 32 are typically positioned betweencondenser 30 andradiator 26.Seals 32 form a tight seal betweencondenser 30 andradiator 26 so that air forced throughcondenser 30 is pulled throughradiator 26, rather than aroundradiator 26. The flow of air aroundradiator 26 can result in inefficient cooling ofengine 24, which can lead to undesirable and potentially damaging overheating ofengine 24. In addition,seals 32 function to prevent the build-up of debris between the front ofradiator 26 and the back ofcondenser 30. Debris in this area undesirably obstructs the flow of air throughradiator 26 which again can lead to overheating ofengine 24. -
Condenser 30 generally includes a plurality ofcondenser tubes 34 extending between afirst header 36 and asecond header 38, each of which have a generally circular cross-section. First andsecond headers condenser tubes 34 where it is cooled until it returns to its liquid state, in accordance with well known methodologies. - A problem with prior art condenser/radiator cooling systems, such as
condenser 30 andradiator 26, is that of insufficient airflow throughcondenser 30 andradiator 26. This problem can even arise in new systems that have not yet been contaminated with debris. Insufficient airflow throughcondenser 30 andradiator 26 undesirably hinders heat rejection fromcondenser 30 andradiator 26. Insufficient airflow and a commensurate reduction in heat rejection is exacerbated when the vehicle is traveling in low-speed and/or high-load operating conditions, when the vehicle is traveling in “stop-and-go” conditions, and when the vehicle is simply idling. - Insufficient heat rejection at
condenser 30 can cause an increase in head pressure of the air conditioning system, thereby reducing air conditioner cooling performance. An increase in head pressure can additionally increase the power consumption of the air conditioning compressor thereby reducing gas mileage. Insufficient heat rejection atradiator 26 can reduce engine cooling system performance, thereby resulting in elevated temperatures inengine compartment 22. These elevated temperatures may be sufficiently high to create thermally induced problems in certain components of the vehicle. - Another problem with systems such as that described above, is that
seals 32 betweencondenser 30 andradiator 26 can be breached or can fall off due to moisture, salt, heat, cold, adhesive issues, and age-related issues. The failure ofseals 32 can lead to further airflow inefficiencies throughradiator 26, and can lead to the undesirable accumulation of debris betweencondenser 30 andradiator 26. - Accordingly, what is needed is a guide for facilitating airflow through a heat exchanger, and especially through a condenser and radiator of a vehicle. What is further needed is a durable means for sealing between the condenser and radiator.
- Accordingly, it is an advantage of the present invention that a heat exchanger for a vehicle is provided that facilitates airflow through the heat exchanger.
- Another advantage of the present invention is that a heat exchanger, in the form of a condenser, is provided that enhances heat rejection by the condenser and an adjacent radiator.
- Another advantage of the present invention is that a heat exchanger, in the form of a condenser, is provided that eliminates utilization of a separate sealing element between the condenser and an adjacent radiator.
- The above and other advantages of the present invention are carried out in one form by a heat exchanger that includes a first header, a second header, and a plurality of tubes extending between the first and second headers. An extension member projects from, and is longitudinally oriented, along one of the first and second headers.
- The above and other advantages of the present invention are carried out in another form by a heat exchanger configured for installation in a vehicle. The heat exchanger includes a first header, a second header, and a plurality of tubes extending between the first and second headers. A first extension member projects from, and is longitudinally oriented along, a frontward facing side of the first header, and a second extension member projects from, and is longitudinally oriented along, the frontward facing side of the second header.
- The above and other advantages of the present invention are carried out in yet another form by a heat exchanger configured for installation in a vehicle. The heat exchanger includes a first header, a second header, and a plurality of tubes extending between the first and second headers. A first extension member projects from, and is longitudinally oriented along, a rearward facing side of the first header, and a second extension member projects from, and is longitudinally oriented along, the rearward facing side of the second header.
- A more complete understanding of the present invention may be derived by referring to the detailed description and claims when considered in connection with the Figures, wherein like reference numbers refer to similar items throughout the Figures, and:
-
FIG. 1 shows an exploded perspective view of a portion of an engine compartment of a vehicle; -
FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a heat exchanger in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a header of the heat exchanger ofFIG.2 ; -
FIG. 4 shows an exploded perspective view of a portion of an engine compartment of a vehicle including the heat exchanger ofFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the heat exchanger proximate a radiator; -
FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a heat exchanger in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a header of the heat exchanger ofFIGS. 2 and 6 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; and -
FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of a header of the heat exchanger ofFIGS. 2 and 6 in accordance with another alternative embodiment of the present invention. - The present invention entails a guide for improving air management through a heat exchanger. This improvement in air management is described in connection with heat exchangers found in the front end of vehicles. These heat exchangers include, for example, a condenser and a radiator. However, it will become apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be adapted for various heat exchanger designs, and is not limited to heat exchangers for use in vehicles.
- Referring to
FIGS. 2-4 ,FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of aheat exchanger 40 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of afirst header 42 ofheat exchanger 40, andFIG. 4 shows an exploded perspective view of a portion ofengine compartment 22 ofvehicle 20 includingheat exchanger 40. - For purposes of illustration,
heat exchanger 40 is a condenser for a vehicle air conditioning system, the remaining components of which are not shown. As such the heat exchanger illustrated inFIGS. 2-4 will be referred to hereinafter ascondenser 40. In addition,condenser 40 can readily replacecondenser 30 ofvehicle 20, illustrated inFIG. 1 . Accordingly, comparable components fromFIG. 1 retain the same reference numerals inFIG. 4 . -
Condenser 40 includesfirst header 42 and asecond header 44. A plurality oftubes 46 extends between first andsecond headers second headers First header 42 includes afirst extension member 48 projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, a frontward facingside 50 offirst header 42. Similarly,second header 44 includes asecond extension member 52 projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, frontward facingside 50 ofsecond header 44.First header 42 further includes athird extension member 54 projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, a rearward facingside 56 offirst header 42. Likewise,second header 44 includes afourth extension member 58 projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, rearward facingside 56 ofsecond header 44. - For clarity of understanding, the term “frontward facing side” utilized herein generally refers to the side of
condenser 40 that faces frontward invehicle 20, while the term “rearward facing side” generally refers to the side ofcondenser 40 that faces backward, or towardengine 24, invehicle 20. - In a preferred embodiment, first and
third extension members first header 42 substantially perpendicular relative totubes 46, as most clearly illustrated inFIG. 3 . In addition,third extension member 54 diametrically opposesfirst extension member 48 on anouter surface 60 offirst header 42. That is, first andthird extension members first header 42. Likewise, second andfourth extension members second header 44 substantially perpendicular relative totubes 46, andfourth extension member 58 diametrically opposessecond extension member 52 on anouter surface 62 ofsecond header 44. - Each of first and
second headers FIG. 3 ,first header 42 includes afirst section 64 from whichfirst extension member 48 extends, and asecond section 66 from whichthird extension member 54 extends.First section 64 has a first pair of longitudinally orientededges 68, andsecond section 66 has a second pair of longitudinally oriented edges 70. First and second pairs ofedges first header 42. Alternatively, and as known to those skilled in the art, first andsecond headers third extension members first header 42, and second andfourth extension members second header 44. - Referring to
FIG. 5 , in connection withFIGS. 2-4 ,FIG. 5 shows a perspective view ofcondenser 40proximate radiator 26. As shown,radiator 26 is positioned proximate rearward facingside 56, and third andfourth extension members radiator 26. In such a capacity, third andfourth extension members second headers radiator 26. Consequently, third andfourth extension members FIG. 1 ). Thus, greater durability of the sealing mechanism is achieved through the utilization of third andfourth extension members second headers seals 32 and the labor cost for installation ofseals 32. - As well known to those skilled in the art, in a vapor compression system, vapor refrigerant is compressed in the compressor, where its temperature is raised above the temperature of the cooling medium used at the condenser. Vaporized refrigerant then enters
condenser 40, and intotubes 46, where heat is rejected from the refrigerant, and the refrigerant changes to a liquid. The liquid refrigerant subsequently exits fromcondenser 40 and enters a thermal expansion valve (not shown), which controls the quantity of liquid refrigerant passing to the evaporator coils (not shown). Finally, the liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator and evaporates. Heat from the ambient atmosphere, for example, in a vehicle passenger compartment, is rejected to the refrigerant in the evaporator where it is absorbed as the latent heat of vaporization as the refrigerant evaporates. The now vaporized refrigerant is then directed to the compressor to be recycled through the system. - First and
second extension members vehicle 20 throughcondenser 40 at frontward facingside 50, rather than aroundcondenser 40. Third andfourth extension members condenser 40 andradiator 26, and guide airflow fromcondenser 40 throughradiator 26, rather than aroundradiator 26. - First and
second extension members condenser 40 and, correspondingly,radiator 26 over prior art systems, such as condenser 30 (FIG. 1 ). An increase of airflow throughcondenser 40 andradiator 26 improves vehicle air conditioning system and engine cooling system performance, especially in low-speed and/or high-load operating conditions, when the vehicle is traveling in “stop-and-go” conditions, and when the vehicle is simply idling. More specifically, increased airflow throughcondenser 40 andradiator 26 results in higher heat rejection fromcondenser 40 andradiator 26. - Higher heat rejection from
condenser 40 reduces the head pressure of the air conditioning system, thereby improving system performance, or coefficient of performance (COP). Consequently, the vent outlet and cabin temperatures improve, resulting in increased comfort for the passengers. In addition, a reduction in head pressure reduces power consumption by the compressor resulting in improved gas mileage, and a commensurate reduction in tail pipe emissions. Similarly, higher heat rejection fromradiator 26 results in improved engine cooling, thereby reducing the potential for engine component failure. - In a preferred embodiment,
condenser 40 has both frontward facing first andsecond extension members fourth extension members second extension members fourth extension members FIG. 1 ) might be used with such a condenser. In another configuration, a condenser might include rearward facing third andfourth extension members second extension members conventional seals 32. -
FIG. 6 shows a perspective view ofcondenser 40 in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention.Condenser 40 has been modified to illustrate an additional feature of the present invention. As shown, each offirst extension member 48 offirst header 42 andsecond extension member 52 ofsecond header 44 has been modified to include afastening portion 72. - Fastening
portion 72 is a region on each of first andsecond extension members portion 72 may include holes, clip nuts, indentations, and so forth that facilitate the attachment of a separate structure. In this exemplary scenario, the separate structure is anoil cooler 73.Oil cooler 73 is a small heat exchanger that is utilized to cool the engine oil or the automatic transmission fluid. As air passes throughoil cooler 73, heat from the oil is rejected to the air. Accordingly, oil cooler 73 can benefit from increased heat rejection produced utilizing first andsecond extension members oil cooler 73, and correspondingly,condenser 40 andradiator 26. Other structures may optionally be coupled to first andsecond extension members -
FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of aheader 74 for condenser 40 (FIG. 2 ) in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.Header 74 may be utilized in place offirst header 42. It should be understood however, that replacement of second header 44 (FIG. 2 ) with a header having the features ofheader 74, will be a mirror image ofheader 74. - A
first extension member 76 projects from, and extends longitudinally along frontward facingside 50 ofheader 74. Asecond extension member 78 projects from, and extends longitudinally along rearward facingside 56 ofheader 74. As shown,first extension member 76 projects in such a direction so as to form anacute angle 80 betweenfirst extension member 76 and tubes 46 (shown in ghost form). Such a configuration may effectively channel airflow through condenser 40 (FIG. 2 ), while concurrently addressing space design considerations within engine compartment 22 (FIG. 4 ). -
FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of aheader 82 for the condenser 40 (FIG. 2 ) in accordance with another alternative embodiment of the present invention.Header 82 may also be utilized in place offirst header 42. It should be understood however, that replacement of second header 44 (FIG. 2 ) with a header in accordance with the features ofheader 82, will be a mirror image ofheader 82. - A
first extension member 84 projects from, and extends longitudinally along frontward facingside 50 ofheader 82. Asecond extension member 86 projects from, and extends longitudinally along rearward facingside 56 ofheader 82. As shown,first extension member 84 projects in such a direction so as to form anobtuse angle 88 betweenfirst extension member 84 and tubes 46 (shown in ghost form). Such a configuration may serve to funnel additional air throughcondenser 40 and radiator 26 (FIG. 2 ) to further enhance heat rejection, when there is enough space to accommodate the outwardly flaredfirst extension member 84. - In summary, the present invention teaches of a heat exchanger for a vehicle that facilitates airflow through the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger, in the form of a condenser, includes extension members projecting from a frontward facing side of the headers that improve airflow through the condenser and an adjacent radiator to enhance heat rejection by same. In addition, the heat exchanger includes extension members projecting from a rearward facing side of the headers that form a durable seal between the condenser and the adjacent radiator, so that separate sealing elements need not be employed.
- Although the preferred embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described in detail, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention or from the scope of the appended claims. For example, when a condenser is not used in a vehicle, the vehicular radiator may include extension sections that funnel, or channel, airflow through the radiator. In addition, extension members integral to the headers may be adapted for use with a variety of heat exchangers.
Claims (20)
1. A heat exchanger comprising;
a first header;
a second header;
a plurality of tubes extending between said first and second headers; and
an extension member projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, one of said first and second headers.
2. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 1 wherein said heat exchanger is configured for installation in a vehicle and said extension member projects from a frontward facing side of said one of said first and second headers.
3. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 1 wherein said heat exchanger is configured for installation in a vehicle and said extension member projects from a rearward facing side of said one of said first and second headers.
4. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 3 wherein said vehicle further comprises a radiator positioned proximate said rearward facing side of said one of said first and second headers, and said extension member projects toward said radiator to form a seal between said one of said first and second headers and said radiator.
5. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 1 wherein said extension member projects substantially perpendicular relative to said plurality of tubes.
6. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 1 wherein said extension member projects in a direction to form an acute angle between said extension member and said plurality of tubes.
7. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 1 wherein said extension member projects in a direction to form an obtuse angle between said extension member and said plurality of tubes.
8. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 1 wherein said extension member is a first extension member, and said heat exchanger further comprises a second extension member projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, another of said first and second headers.
9. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 1 wherein said extension member is a first extension member, and said heat exchanger further comprises a second extension member projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, said one of said first and second headers.
10. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 9 wherein said second extension member diametrically opposes said first extension member on an outer surface of said one of said first and second headers.
11. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 9 wherein said one of said first and second headers comprises:
a first section having a first pair of longitudinally oriented edges, said first extension member extending from said first section; and
a second section having a second pair of longitudinally oriented edges bonded to said first pair of longitudinally oriented edges, said second extension member extending from said second section.
12. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 1 wherein said extension member further comprises a fastening portion configured to enable attachment of a separate structure.
13. A heat exchanger configured for installation in a vehicle comprising:
a first header;
a second header;
plurality of tubes extending between said first and second headers;
first extension member projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, a frontward facing side of said first header; and
second extension member projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, said frontward facing side of said second header.
14. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 13 further comprising;
a third extension member projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, a rearward facing side of said first header; and
a fourth extension member projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, said rearward facing side of said second header.
15. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 14 wherein said vehicle further comprises a radiator positioned proximate said rearward facing side of said first and second headers, and said third and fourth extension members project toward said radiator to form a seal between said first and second headers and said radiator.
16. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 14 wherein:
said third extension member diametrically opposes said first extension member on a first outer surface of said first header; and
said fourth extension member diametrically opposes said second extension member on a second outer surface of said second header.
17. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 14 wherein each of said first and second headers comprises:
a first section having a first pair of longitudinally oriented edges, and an associated one of said first and second extension members extends from said first section; and
a second section having a second pair of longitudinally oriented edges bonded to said first pair of longitudinally oriented edges, and an associated one or said third and fourth extension members extends from said second section.
18. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 13 wherein each of said first and second extension members further comprises a fastening portion configured to enable attachment of a separate structure.
19. A heat exchanger configured for installation in a vehicle comprising:
a first header;
a second header;
a plurality of tubes extending between said first and second headers;
a first extension member projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, a rearward facing side of said first header; and
a second extension member projecting from, and longitudinally oriented along, said rearward facing side of said second header.
20. A heat exchanger as claimed in claim 19 wherein said vehicle further comprises a radiator positioned proximate said rearward facing side of said first and second headers, and said first and second extension members project toward said radiator to form a seal between said first and second headers and said radiator.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/906,699 US20060196647A1 (en) | 2005-03-02 | 2005-03-02 | Heat Exchanger Having an Integral Air Guide |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/906,699 US20060196647A1 (en) | 2005-03-02 | 2005-03-02 | Heat Exchanger Having an Integral Air Guide |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20060196647A1 true US20060196647A1 (en) | 2006-09-07 |
Family
ID=36943021
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/906,699 Abandoned US20060196647A1 (en) | 2005-03-02 | 2005-03-02 | Heat Exchanger Having an Integral Air Guide |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20060196647A1 (en) |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
KR101610788B1 (en) * | 2009-12-23 | 2016-04-08 | 한온시스템 주식회사 | The sealing structure of condenser and radiator |
USD827795S1 (en) * | 2016-07-05 | 2018-09-04 | Danfoss Micro Channel Heat Exchanger (Jiaxing) Co., Ltd. | Heat exchanger |
USD839404S1 (en) * | 2016-07-06 | 2019-01-29 | Danfoss Micro Channel Heat Exchanger (Jiaxing) Co., Ltd. | Heat exchanger |
USD844763S1 (en) * | 2016-07-05 | 2019-04-02 | Danfoss Micro Channel Heat Exchanger (Jiaxing) Co., Ltd. | Heat exchanger |
Citations (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5046554A (en) * | 1990-02-22 | 1991-09-10 | Calsonic International, Inc. | Cooling module |
US5139080A (en) * | 1991-12-16 | 1992-08-18 | General Motors Corporation | Mounting assembly for an automotive condenser |
US5186244A (en) * | 1992-04-08 | 1993-02-16 | General Motors Corporation | Tube design for integral radiator/condenser |
US5495909A (en) * | 1991-01-03 | 1996-03-05 | Siemens Automotive Limited | Automotive vehicle engine bay ventilation by ducted-fan-operated ejector |
US5570737A (en) * | 1993-10-07 | 1996-11-05 | Showa Aluminum Corporation | Heat exchanger |
US5996684A (en) * | 1996-05-04 | 1999-12-07 | Ford Motor Company | Radiator and condenser assembly |
US6267174B1 (en) * | 1999-04-27 | 2001-07-31 | Denso Corporation | Double heat exchanger having condenser and radiator |
US20010013405A1 (en) * | 2000-01-22 | 2001-08-16 | Rainer Mangold | Heat exchanger assembly |
US20010040021A1 (en) * | 2000-01-28 | 2001-11-15 | Stephane Avequin | Heat-exchange module, for a motor vehicle in particular |
US20010050160A1 (en) * | 1999-10-28 | 2001-12-13 | Ikuo Ozawa | Vehicle-mounted structure for heat exchanger |
US6470961B1 (en) * | 2002-01-08 | 2002-10-29 | General Motors Corporation | Condenser, radiator and fan assembly module |
US6540037B2 (en) * | 2000-01-28 | 2003-04-01 | Denso Corporation | Vehicle front end panel |
US7036561B2 (en) * | 2002-09-27 | 2006-05-02 | Denso Corporation | Heat exchanger module |
-
2005
- 2005-03-02 US US10/906,699 patent/US20060196647A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5046554A (en) * | 1990-02-22 | 1991-09-10 | Calsonic International, Inc. | Cooling module |
US5495909A (en) * | 1991-01-03 | 1996-03-05 | Siemens Automotive Limited | Automotive vehicle engine bay ventilation by ducted-fan-operated ejector |
US5139080A (en) * | 1991-12-16 | 1992-08-18 | General Motors Corporation | Mounting assembly for an automotive condenser |
US5186244A (en) * | 1992-04-08 | 1993-02-16 | General Motors Corporation | Tube design for integral radiator/condenser |
US5570737A (en) * | 1993-10-07 | 1996-11-05 | Showa Aluminum Corporation | Heat exchanger |
US5996684A (en) * | 1996-05-04 | 1999-12-07 | Ford Motor Company | Radiator and condenser assembly |
US6267174B1 (en) * | 1999-04-27 | 2001-07-31 | Denso Corporation | Double heat exchanger having condenser and radiator |
US20010050160A1 (en) * | 1999-10-28 | 2001-12-13 | Ikuo Ozawa | Vehicle-mounted structure for heat exchanger |
US20010013405A1 (en) * | 2000-01-22 | 2001-08-16 | Rainer Mangold | Heat exchanger assembly |
US20010040021A1 (en) * | 2000-01-28 | 2001-11-15 | Stephane Avequin | Heat-exchange module, for a motor vehicle in particular |
US6540037B2 (en) * | 2000-01-28 | 2003-04-01 | Denso Corporation | Vehicle front end panel |
US6470961B1 (en) * | 2002-01-08 | 2002-10-29 | General Motors Corporation | Condenser, radiator and fan assembly module |
US7036561B2 (en) * | 2002-09-27 | 2006-05-02 | Denso Corporation | Heat exchanger module |
Cited By (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
KR101610788B1 (en) * | 2009-12-23 | 2016-04-08 | 한온시스템 주식회사 | The sealing structure of condenser and radiator |
USD827795S1 (en) * | 2016-07-05 | 2018-09-04 | Danfoss Micro Channel Heat Exchanger (Jiaxing) Co., Ltd. | Heat exchanger |
USD829874S1 (en) * | 2016-07-05 | 2018-10-02 | Danfoss Micro Channel Heat Exchanger (Jiaxing) Co., Ltd. | Heat exchanger |
USD844763S1 (en) * | 2016-07-05 | 2019-04-02 | Danfoss Micro Channel Heat Exchanger (Jiaxing) Co., Ltd. | Heat exchanger |
USD849215S1 (en) * | 2016-07-05 | 2019-05-21 | Danfoss Micro Channel Heat Exchanger (Jiaxing) Co., Ltd. | Heat exchanger |
USD849216S1 (en) * | 2016-07-05 | 2019-05-21 | Danfoss Micro Channel Heat Exchanger (Jiaxing) Co., Ltd. | Heat exchanger |
USD852338S1 (en) * | 2016-07-05 | 2019-06-25 | Danfoss Micro Channel Heat Exchanger (Jiaxing) Co., Ltd. | Heat exchanger |
USD852339S1 (en) * | 2016-07-05 | 2019-06-25 | Danfoss Micro Channel Heat Exchanger (Jiaxing) Co., Ltd. | Heat exchanger |
USD853541S1 (en) * | 2016-07-05 | 2019-07-09 | Danfoss Micro Channel Heat Exchanger (Jiaxing) Co., Ltd. | Heat exchanger |
USD839404S1 (en) * | 2016-07-06 | 2019-01-29 | Danfoss Micro Channel Heat Exchanger (Jiaxing) Co., Ltd. | Heat exchanger |
USD845454S1 (en) * | 2016-07-06 | 2019-04-09 | Danfoss Micro Channel Heat Exchanger (Jiaxing) Co., Ltd. | Heat exchanger |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US6739419B2 (en) | Vehicle engine cooling system without a fan | |
US20090178435A1 (en) | Condenser for use in vehicle | |
US9506683B2 (en) | Heat exchanger and heat pump cycle provided with the same | |
EP1079982B1 (en) | Modular low pressure delivery vehicle air conditioning system | |
US20090133415A1 (en) | HVAC Thermal Storage for Hybrid Vehicle | |
JP4706314B2 (en) | Vehicle engine cooling device | |
JP2002274165A (en) | Air conditioner for automobile | |
US10179498B2 (en) | Storage evaporator having phase change material for use in vehicle air conditioning system | |
US20110154855A1 (en) | Evaporator with cool storage function | |
US7063139B2 (en) | System for heating and cooling the interior of a motor vehicle | |
JP5824066B2 (en) | Truck with freezer | |
US10401062B2 (en) | Cold storage heat exchanger | |
US20080127666A1 (en) | Vehicle Heat Exchanger and Cooling System | |
US6742352B2 (en) | Heat exchanger for a motor vehicle air-conditioning system | |
US20060196647A1 (en) | Heat Exchanger Having an Integral Air Guide | |
US20100300140A1 (en) | Air Conditioning System for Cooling the Cabin of a Hybrid-Electric Vehicle | |
US4773473A (en) | Heat-exchanger for fuel in an internal combustion engine | |
US20180093549A1 (en) | Valve-in-receiver for a vehicle climate control system | |
US7971441B2 (en) | Receiver/dryer-accumulator-internal heat exchanger for vehicle air conditioning system | |
US11148508B2 (en) | Cold-storage heat exchanger | |
JP2012247120A (en) | Combined heat exchanger system | |
EP2665612B1 (en) | Motor vehicle | |
CN209274457U (en) | High-performance refrigerator truck for long-distance transportation | |
JP6977464B2 (en) | vehicle | |
US11549425B2 (en) | Engine damper cooling utilizing cab A/C circuit |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CALSONICKANSEI NORTH AMERICA, INC., MICHIGAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:MARTHUR, GURSARAN DAS;BURTON, QUINCY RANIEL;REEL/FRAME:015721/0075 Effective date: 20050222 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |