WO2022122990A1 - Module de refroidissement et procédé d'assemblage dudit module de refroidissement - Google Patents

Module de refroidissement et procédé d'assemblage dudit module de refroidissement Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2022122990A1
WO2022122990A1 PCT/EP2021/085129 EP2021085129W WO2022122990A1 WO 2022122990 A1 WO2022122990 A1 WO 2022122990A1 EP 2021085129 W EP2021085129 W EP 2021085129W WO 2022122990 A1 WO2022122990 A1 WO 2022122990A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
module
interface
cooling module
module carrier
fixing
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2021/085129
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Michael HOLVECK
Original Assignee
Estra Automotive Systems Luxembourg S.À R.L.
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Estra Automotive Systems Luxembourg S.À R.L. filed Critical Estra Automotive Systems Luxembourg S.À R.L.
Priority to CN202180083337.1A priority Critical patent/CN116568543A/zh
Priority to DE112021006416.9T priority patent/DE112021006416T5/de
Publication of WO2022122990A1 publication Critical patent/WO2022122990A1/fr

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Classifications

    • 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
    • F01P3/00—Liquid cooling
    • F01P3/18—Arrangements or mounting of liquid-to-air heat-exchangers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
    • B60K11/00—Arrangement in connection with cooling of propulsion units
    • B60K11/02—Arrangement in connection with cooling of propulsion units with liquid cooling
    • B60K11/04—Arrangement or mounting of radiators, radiator shutters, or radiator blinds
    • 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
    • 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
    • F01P3/00—Liquid cooling
    • F01P3/18—Arrangements or mounting of liquid-to-air heat-exchangers
    • F01P2003/187—Arrangements or mounting of liquid-to-air heat-exchangers arranged in series
    • 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
    • F01P2060/00—Cooling circuits using auxiliaries
    • F01P2060/02—Intercooler
    • 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
    • F01P2060/00—Cooling circuits using auxiliaries
    • F01P2060/14—Condenser
    • 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
    • F01P5/00—Pumping cooling-air or liquid coolants
    • F01P5/02—Pumping cooling-air; Arrangements of cooling-air pumps, e.g. fans or blowers
    • F01P5/06—Guiding or ducting air to, or from, ducted fans

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to the field of automotive engine cooling and air conditioning systems, and more particularly to a cooling module and a method for assembling a cooling module.
  • Engines used in motor vehicles require at least one cooling system in order to ensure adequate heat dissipation and thus proper cooling of the engine during its operation.
  • the cooling system comprises at least a fan unit and a radiator for providing an atmospheric heat dump for a circulating liquid coolant.
  • motor vehicles provide air conditioning within the passenger compartment, wherein air conditioning also requires an atmospheric heat dump to operate effectively, normally using a condenser unit through which a heated refrigerant is circulated.
  • the condenser and radiator present both a rectangular shaped form of similar dimensioning, wherein the radiator and the condenser are arranged narrowly-spaced to one another in the engine compartment of a vehicle, such that an air flow may be eased, for example when the vehicle is operating.
  • a fan unit is arranged in at the frontside or backside (depending on design) of the condenser - radiator assembly so as to create an air flow through said elements.
  • a cooling module is commonly also referred to as CRFM, standing for Condenser Radiator and Fan Module.
  • the components of the CRFM are assembled together and mounted in the vehicle by means of mounting members referred to as module carriers.
  • a typical module carrier has a first interface designed to engage with edge areas of the heat exchanger - and is typically screwed to the radiator.
  • a second interface is configured for fixing into the engine compartment, e.g. by means of a fixing shaft.
  • the dimensioning (measurement) of the elements forming the cooling module usually varies within a range of several millimeters.
  • elements of cooling modules such as for example the radiator, which are usually of the same production series, may differ in their dimensioning to one another. Although these dimensional variations are considered to fall within acceptable production tolerance ranges, it may complicate the installation of the cooling module in the vehicle.
  • the object of the present invention is to provide a cooling module and a method for assembling a cooling module which address the above mentioned disadvantages.
  • a cooling module for a vehicle comprises two or more heat-exchangers, wherein the heat exchangers comprise top and bottom portions extending along a width direction as well as side portions extending along a height direction.
  • the cooling module further comprises at least one module carrier configured for carrying and fixing the heat exchangers within the vehicle.
  • the module carrier comprises a first interface with mounting features for fixing the cooling module in the vehicle, and a second interface configured for cooperating I engaging the side portion of at least one of the heat exchangers.
  • the side portion comprises a blocking piece that cooperates with a third interface provided on the module carrier for coming into blocking engagement during assembly of the respective heat exchanger on the module carrier.
  • the blocking piece and the third interface are configured such that an engagement is possible at a plurality of positions along the width direction, whereby the positioning of the heat exchanger relative to the module carrier can be selectively adjusted during the assembly of the cooling module.
  • the module carrier used in the inventive cooling module is thus designed so that it can be mounted to the heat exchanger, but its position relative to the side portion can be adjusted in width direction, in order to compensate for manufacturing tolerances. This allows maintaining a given (nominal) distance between the two lateral extremities of the cooling module, as required for mounting the cooling module in the vehicle.
  • the present invention differs from the conventional approach where module carriers are fixed tightly against heat exchanger side portions.
  • Heat exchanger may refer to any form of conventional heat exchangers or a heat exchanger assembly.
  • the plurality of heat exchangers may comprise at least a radiator, a condenser and/or a charge-air cooler.
  • a fan unit may be connected or form part of the plurality of heat exchangers.
  • a fan unit may comprise a motor driven fan and a fan shroud. These components may be of conventional design.
  • the heat exchangers may each comprise an exchanger core with a plurality of exchanger tubes extending between inlet and inlet outlet tanks. The fluid to be cooled may enter the heat exchanger via the inlet tank and flows through the tubes of the exchanger core, where it is cooled, to the outlet tank.
  • radiator, condenser and cooler may for example be of the so-called l-type, according to which the tubes of the exchanger core run along the horizontal direction and the inlet and outlet tanks are arranged at the opposite tube ends.
  • Other heat-exchanger designs may however also be possible.
  • the cooling module may comprise a radiator (for engine cooling), a condenser (for the air conditioning circuit), possibly charge air cooler and/or an oil cooler, and a fan assembly.
  • a cooling module may comprise a variety of heat exchangers, for different purposes, associated with any of the coolant circuits in the engine.
  • the cooling module may comprise one or more types of cooling modules.
  • the cooling module may comprise a first (high temperature) radiator and a second (low temperature). The first radiator is typically connected to a first coolant loop circuit, with relatively high temperature coolant.
  • the second radiator is for the secondary coolant loop circuit, typically operating at low coolant temperature either for alternative configuration of air conditioning system or for electrical vehicle application (example battery cooling, 48 V).
  • cooling module combines heat exchanges, it is by extension also commonly referred to as CRFM.
  • the plurality of heat exchangers may present a substantially rectangular and/or cuboid-shaped structure.
  • a heat exchanger of the plurality of heat exchangers may present substantially a quadrangular and/or planar form.
  • the heat exchangers may present top and bottom portions extending along a width direction as well as side portions extending along a height direction.
  • a width direction may also be referred to as a horizontal direction, respectively a direction along a Y-axis.
  • a height direction may also be referred to as a vertical direction, respectively a direction along a Z-axis.
  • Module carrier refers to a constructional element of the cooling module, which is configured for carrying and fixing the assembly of heat exchangers in the engine.
  • the module carrier may be arranged at an edge portion and/or in an edge area and/or a corner portion of at least one of the plurality of heat exchangers.
  • the module carrier may be arranged on an edge portion of the radiator.
  • the term “carrying and fixing” relates to a direct and/or an indirect carrying and/or fixing of at least one of the heat exchangers. Since the heat exchangers may be assembled to one another, the module carrier may be arranged on at least one of the heat exchangers in order to carry and fix the plurality of heat exchangers.
  • the two module carriers are used, to carry the heat exchanger assembly from opposite side portions.
  • the two module carrier designs may follow the inventive design (i.e. with three interfaces), or one of the module carriers can be of conventional design (i.e. first and second interfaces).
  • the module carrier may comprise a first interface with mounting features for fixing the cooling module in a vehicle.
  • "Interface" may generally refer to a portion of the module carrier which may present as a port, an intersection, a socket, an outlet, a connector, a plug-in unit, a male connector, a female connector, a mounting device, an axis, a shaft or a similar constructional element for enabling a connection between the module carrier and at least another element.
  • the first interface may for example be configured for mounting the cooling module in a vehicle.
  • the module carrier may comprise a second interface configured for cooperating, i.e. engaging I holding/ connecting, a side portion of at least one of the plurality of heat exchangers, e.g. the side portion of the radiator.
  • the term "mounting features" may generally refer to a constructional element or a plurality of elements for enabling a support.
  • a mounting feature may for example present as an opening, a hole, a protrusion, a slot, a groove, a bar, a notch, a shaft, an axis or a similar element.
  • the module carrier is formed as a corner element, where the second interface cooperates with a side portion and bottom portion of a heat exchanger.
  • the heat exchangers may each engage with the second interface of the module carriers in such a way that they are directly fixed thereto or maintained thereby.
  • a first heat exchanger is directly fixed and supported by the heat exchanger, and the other heat exchanger(s) are attached to the first heat exchanger or neighboring heat exchanger.
  • Further components such as e.g. a fan or a grid, are attached directly to the heat exchangers. In this latter case, some heat exchangers are thus indirectly attached to the module carrier, but still the module carrier has the function of fixing and carrying the heat exchanger assembly in the engine.
  • “Side portion” may refer to a lateral portion /segment I section/ part of at least one heat exchanger of the plurality of heat exchangers.
  • the second interface may be configured for engaging/ connecting the side portion of the radiator to the module carrier.
  • a side portion of the radiator may generally be a part of a tank and/or a frame element or of an assembly of different frame elements of the radiator.
  • the second interface may additionally or alternatively be configured to cooperate/ hold/ engage with a side portion of another heat exchanger of the plurality of heat exchangers.
  • the second interface may further be configured to attach edge elements forming a surrounding frame of the cooling module.
  • the side portion comprises a blocking piece that cooperates with a third interface of the module carrier for forming a blocking engagement during an assembly of the respective heat exchanger on the module carrier.
  • the blocking piece and the third interface are configured such that an engagement is possible at a plurality of positions along the width direction, whereby the positioning of the heat exchanger relative to the module carrier can be selectively adjusted during the assembly of the cooling module. That is, whereas the blocking piece is engaged along the height direction with the third interface, when assembling the heat exchanger with the module carrier, these two pieces can be brought into locking engagement at different positions in the width direction.
  • Blocking piece refers to a connecting element for adjusting a positioning and for blocking/ hindering/ stopping a relative movement between the side portion and the module carrier.
  • the blocking element may prevent a motion in the width direction.
  • the blocking piece may generally present an intersection, a port, a socket, an outlet, a connector, a plug-in unit, a male connector, a female connector, a mounting device, an axis, a shaft, a blocklike structure or a similar constructional element for connecting the side portion to the module carrier.
  • the "third interface” is an element configured to cooperate/ engage with the blocking piece.
  • the third interface may for example further comprise a mounting feature or a plurality of mounting features.
  • the third interface is arranged on a lateral side of the module carrier for forming a blocking engagement, respectively link/ connection, with the blocking piece during assembly of the respective heat exchanger on the module carrier.
  • the blocking piece and the third interface may for example form a force-fit and/or form-fit and/or friction-locked connection during an assembly.
  • the blocking piece and the third interface may be shaped to obtain an interference fit when the blocking piece is inserted into at least a section of the third interface, whereby the components are compressed/expanded, so that the form-fit and/or friction-locked connection is further enhanced.
  • the third interface provides a plurality of positions for fixing the blocking piece.
  • the third interface may be provided with a mounting feature such as a groove, wherein the groove is provided with a larger dimensioning than the blocking element (in width direction).
  • a mounting feature such as a groove
  • the groove is provided with a larger dimensioning than the blocking element (in width direction).
  • Such a configuration of the third interface may allow arranging the blocking piece at one of a plurality of possible positions, namely a plurality of positions along the width direction.
  • the positioning of the heat exchanger can be selectively adjusted relative to the module carrier during the assembly.
  • This arrangement facilitates the assembly of the cooling module and/or a series of cooling modules, in that the overall width of the cooling module, i.e. between the two opposite carrier modules, can be adjusted to conform to an expected mounting distance in the engine (nominal distance).
  • such an arrangement may compensate for a wider range of manufacturing tolerances, respectively differing measurements of heat exchangers of a series of heat exchangers.
  • the module carrier is fixedly attached to at least one of the heat exchangers. In consequence, after the blocking member has been fastened to the third interface during an assembly, a relative motion of the blocking member along a width direction of the third interface is delimited/ prevented.
  • the third interface comprises a groove extending along the width direction.
  • the groove respectively notch/ slot, may allow a corresponding blocking piece of the side element to lock with the third interface of the module carrier.
  • the groove eases an elastic expansion of the third interface when the blocking piece is connected to the module carrier during an assembly.
  • the blocking piece presents a tapered profile for fixing the blocking piece in the groove of the third interface.
  • Profile may refer to a cross- sectional profile.
  • the blocking piece may present a tapered profile in a plane perpendicular to the width direction of the groove, wherein the profile tapers along a vertical direction.
  • a tapering/ narrowing/ rejuvenating/ tapered profile may become thinner and/or narrower towards one end point.
  • the profile may present as a substantially conical or rectangular profile.
  • a blocking piece having a tapered profile facilitates the connection of the blocking piece and the third interface. This may result in significant time savings in the assembly process.
  • the module carrier further comprises a guide section with a guide slot for guiding a fixing bar of the side element.
  • the guide slot may extend along a height direction, respectively a direction perpendicular to the width of the third interface.
  • the guide slot may be configured to guide the fixing bar of the side element.
  • the fixing bar may be an element configured to be arranged within the guide slot.
  • the guide slot and the fixing bar may be further configured to form a tolerance-provided fitting.
  • the guide slot and the fixing bar may form a tolerance-provided fitting in a plane perpendicular to the vertical/ height direction.
  • tolerance refers to an allowable variation in measurements deriving from a origin measurement.
  • a "tolerance-provided fitting” may refer to a connection of two elements, wherein at least one of both elements has a dimensioning configured to compensate for variations/ tolerances in the measurements of the other element.
  • the guide slot and the fixing bar may form a connection with play. This may enable in an industrial setting that cooling modules of a series of cooling modules, wherein said cooling modules may slightly differ with respect to their total length, may despite their variations be connected to a module carrier.
  • the fixing bar retains/holds the side element in the guide slot of the module carrier already during the assembly of the module carrier and the side element. The assembly of the module carrier and the side element may comprise several steps.
  • the fixing bar may be inserted into the guide slot, wherein the side element can still be adjusted on the module carrier.
  • the module carrier and the side element may be fixedly attached to each other by engaging the third interface with the blocking piece/ blocking element.
  • the fixing bar presents a T-shaped profile.
  • the fixing bar may have a T-shaped profile, respectively a T-shaped cross-sectional profile.
  • the T-shaped profile may present in a plane perpendicular to the height direction.
  • the combination of fixing bar and guide slot locks the heat exchanger on the module carrier against movements in a direction perpendicular to heat exchanger width direction.
  • This ensemble also allows distributing mechanical stress existing at the first and second interfaces of the module carrier.
  • the blocking piece further comprises at least a wall portion provided with a gripping structure.
  • a gripping structure may refer to a surface structure and/or elements arranged on at least a wall portion/ surface of the blocking piece. The gripping structure reduces or prevents relative movements of the blocking piece along the width direction.
  • the gripping structure comprises a plurality of ridges. Additionally, each ridge of the plurality of ridges may present a triangular profile.
  • the gripping structure comprising a plurality of ridges may present a gearing/ serration/ interlocking.
  • the gripping structure may enable a serration with the third interface, for example with a ribbing provided on at least a wall segment of the groove of the third interface.
  • the gearing created by the ridges with the third interface of the module carrier is particularly efficient in preventing lateral movements of the blocking element.
  • the groove further comprises a first wall segment and a second wall segment, wherein the first wall segment and the second wall segment form at least partially a tapered profile of the groove. Additionally or alternatively, the first wall segment and the second wall segment may form at least partially a V- shaped profile of the groove and/or form at least partially a U-shaped profile of the groove. The profile formed by the first wall segment/ first wall portion and the second wall segment/ second wall portion may correspond to the tapered profile of the blocking piece.
  • the first wall segment and/or the second wall segment present a ribbing. Additionally or alternatively a plurality of guide elements borders the first wall segment and/or the second wall segment.
  • the ribbing may limit relative movements of the blocking piece along a width direction. Furthermore, the ribbing may interlock with the plurality of ridges of the blocking piece.
  • the module carrier further comprises a platform, wherein the platform presents an oblong opening.
  • the platform may extend in a plane perpendicular to the vertical I height direction.
  • a length of the oblong opening may extend along the width direction.
  • the oblong opening is configured to provide a tolerance for a fastener piece, such as e.g. a screw.
  • the fastener piece may extend along a vertical direction through the oblong opening for fastening the module carrier to the side element.
  • connection by way of the fastener is preferably designed such that, once the fastener is in place, a support surface of the heat exchanger side portion is in contact with the platform.
  • the two surfaces in contact i.e. the platform surface and the support surface may each be provided with ribbing to limit relative movements.
  • the platform may be provided on each side by opposite walls extending in the width direction (and thus spaced in thickness direction), in order to surround the side portion.
  • the first interface comprises a mounting feature configured for supporting a grommet.
  • the mounting feature respectively the support element, may be a shaft or an axis for bearing the grommet.
  • the mounting feature may extend through an opening of the grommet. The grommet enhances the fixation of the module carrier within a vehicle engine compartment or an assembly frame.
  • the invention also concerns a method for assembling a cooling module.
  • a method for assembling a cooling module according to the invention comprises: providing two or more heat exchangers, wherein said heat exchangers comprise top and bottom portions extending along a width direction as well as side portions extending along a height direction, providing a first module carrier and a second module carrier configured for carrying and fixing at least one of the heat exchangers, wherein at least one of the module carriers comprises a first interface with mounting features for fixing the cooling module in a vehicle, a second interface configured for engaging the side portion, and a third interface provided on the module carrier for forming a blocking engagement with a blocking element, wherein the method further comprises providing an assembly frame having at least two holding elements for fixing the first module carrier and the second module carrier, and positioning the first module carrier and the second module carrier on the holding elements at a predefined distance opposite to one another. The method further comprises selectively adjusting a positioning of the heat exchanger relative to the module carrier along the width direction during the assembly of the cooling module.
  • Assembly frame refers to a support structure for compiling the different elements of a cooling module together.
  • An assembly frame may comprise, for example, at least two support arms, wherein each of the two support arms, respectively holding elements, is configured for holding a module carrier.
  • An assembly of a cooling module may comprise the following steps:
  • a first module carrier and a second module carrier may be positioned at a predefined distance to one another on the assembly frame, respectively on the I within the holding elements of an assembly frame.
  • the assembly frame may have at least two holding elements for fixing the module carriers.
  • the first module carrier and the second module carrier may be fixed simultaneously or in a sequence.
  • a heat exchanger for example a radiator, may be attached to the first module carrier and the second module carrier.
  • the positioning of the heat exchanger is selectively adjusting relative to the stationary fixed module carriers along the width direction. Once the positioning has been determined, the heat exchanger is attached to the first module carrier and second module carrier.
  • other elements may be attached to the heat exchanger and/or the first and second module carrier.
  • the blocking element is formed on the side portion of at least one heat exchanger.
  • the blocking element may, for example, be formed of a plastic and/or a composite material and/or a resin and/or a similar material.
  • the blocking element may be molded in one piece, for example by injection molding.
  • a groove is formed within the third interface. Similar to the blocking element, the groove of the third interface, respectively the third interface, may be formed of a plastic and/or a composite material and/or a resin and/or a similar material. The third interface as well as the groove of the third interface may be shaped by injection molding.
  • a gripping structure is formed on at least a wall portion of the blocking piece.
  • the gripping structure may likewise be formed by injection molding. Alternatively or additionally, the gripping structure may be formed through a surface treatment of the blocking element.
  • Fig. 1 is a perspective exploded view of the cooling module
  • Fig. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a module carrier
  • Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a section of an embodiment of a side element of a heat exchanger
  • Fig. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a side element partly assembled to a module carrier
  • Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a side element and a module carrier
  • Fig. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an assembly frame with fixed module carriers
  • Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the assembly frame of Fig.6, wherein a heat exchanger has been assembled to the module carriers;
  • Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the assembly frame of Fig. 7, wherein a cooling module is fully assembled.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective exploded view of the cooling module 10.
  • the cooling module 10 conventionally includes a number of cooling components, such as heat-exchangers 1 , 2, that are surrounded by a plurality of edge elements 5, 6, 7 8.
  • the cooling module 10 is usually fixed in an engine compartment of the vehicle.
  • the cooling unit 10 includes two heat exchangers, namely a first radiator 1 , a second radiator 2 (which may be referred to as low temperature radiator) , as well as a fan unit 4.
  • Reference sign 3 designates a protective grid-These components may be of conventional design. In alternative embodiments, component 2 may be a condenser.
  • Each of the heat exchangers 2, 3 comprises top and bottom portions extending along a width direction Y as well as side portions extending along a height direction Z.
  • the radiator 1 comprises two side portions 12 extending along a height direction Z and a top portion 13 and a bottom portion 13’ extending along the width direction Y.
  • the side portions 12 of the radiator 1 are formed as inlet and outlet tanks.
  • Each of the heat exchangers comprises a plurality of exchanger tubes 11 , 21 extending between an inlet and an outlet tank.
  • the low temperature radiator 2 does likewise present similar tank forming side portions 22, 22 and a top portion 23 and a bottom portion 23.
  • the fluid (not shown) to be cooled enters the heat exchanger 2, 3 via the inlet tank and flows through the tubes of the exchanger core, where it is cooled by ambient air, to the outlet tank.
  • the radiator 1 , and low temperature radiator 2 are of the so-called l-type, i.e. the tubes of the exchanger core run along the horizontal direction and the inlet and outlet tanks are arranged at the opposite tube ends.
  • the heat exchangers 1 , 2 are all provided with inlet and outlet ports arranged in the inlet and outlet tanks to permit fluid communication with respective coolant fluid circuits (not shown). Other heatexchanger designs or configurations are however also possible.
  • the radiators 1 , 2 are surrounded by the baffle elements 5, 6, 7, 8.
  • the baffle elements 5, 6, 7, 8 form an external frame of the cooling module that allows a sealed mounting of the cooling module 10 in the vehicle.
  • the cooling module 10 further comprises two module carriers 50 configured for carrying and fixing the radiator(s).
  • the module carrier 50 may alternatively be configured to carry and fix merely the radiator 1 and/or a portion of the radiator 1 .
  • Each module carrier 50 has a first interface 51 with mounting features for fixing the cooling module 10.
  • the first interface 51 is arranged on a lateral side of the module carrier 50.
  • the first interface 51 extends in the width direction/ horizontal direction Y.
  • the mounting feature of the first interface 51 presents a shaft for supporting a grommet 52, respectively for extending through the grommet 52.
  • the module carrier 50 is also provided with a second interface 53 for engaging/receiving the side portion 12 of the radiator 1.
  • a second interface 53 for engaging/receiving the side portion 12 of the radiator 1.
  • an end portion of the baffle element 7, respectively the baffle element 6, may be engaged with the second interface 53.
  • One of the cooling modules 50 shown in the embodiment of Fig. 1 is provided with a third interface 54 arranged on an upper portion of said module carrier 50.
  • both cooling modules 50 may be provided with a third interface 54.
  • the term "upper” refers to an upper end portion of the cooling module as illustrated by FIG.1
  • the upper end portion of the cooling module 50 is positioned along the vertical direction/ height direction Z.
  • the height direction Z is a direction along which the side portion 12 of the radiator 1 extends.
  • the third interface 54 is configured to cooperate with a blocking piece 14 (better seen in Fig 3) arranged on the side portion 12 of the radiator 1 , namely the radiator tank.
  • the blocking piece 14 is arranged laterally on the side portion 12 and extends along the height direction Z.
  • the blocking piece 14 is configured to engage/ interlock with the third interface.
  • the third interface 54 allows both a positioning of the blocking piece 14 of radiator 1 as well as a serration of the module carrier 50 to the radiator 1.
  • the blocking piece 14 and the third interface 54 are formed to prevent any further lateral movements, i.e. movements along the width direction Y, after the blocking piece 14 has been connected to the third interface 54.
  • the blocking piece 14 and the third interface 54 are formed I configured such that an engagement is possible at a plurality of positions along the width direction Y, whereby the positioning of the heat exchanger 1 relative to the module carrier 50 can be selectively adjusted during the assembly of the cooling module 10.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a module carrier 50.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a section of an embodiment of a side element 12 of a heat exchanger 1 .
  • the module carrier 50 and the side element 12 shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 are configured to cooperate with each other.
  • the module carrier 50 may generally be formed in one piece by injection molding.
  • the second interface 53 defines an interior side of the module carrier 50, wherein the interior side is a side configured to cooperate at least with the tank forming side element 12 of the radiator 1 , as shown in FIG.3.
  • a side element 22 of the second radiator 2 may also cooperate/engage with the second interface 53T
  • the module carrier 50 has a first outer wall 50.1 , which extends in a plane parallel to (Y, Z).
  • the module carrier 50 also has a second outer wall 50.5, which is arranged at a distance from and opposite to the first outer wall 50.1 .
  • a mid-wall 50.4 is arranged between the second outer wall 50.5 and the first outer wall 50.1 , the mid-wall 50.4 extending likewise in a plane (Y, Z).
  • the third interface 54 is arranged on the module carrier 50 at the upper end of the first outer wall 50.1 .
  • first receiving section 50.6 In a plane perpendicular to the thickness direction X, two spaced wall segments 50.2 and 50.3 form a first receiving section 50.6extending the height direction Z.
  • the first receiving section 50.6 presents a vertical groove.
  • the wall segment 50.3 likewise forms with the mid-wall 50.4 a second receiving section 50. /extending along the height direction Z.
  • a third receiving section 50.8 extends along the vertical direction Z between the mid-wall 50.4 and the outer wall 50.5.
  • the first, second and third receiving sections form a kind of vertical groove that engage I surrounds at least partially respective tank/side portions of the heat exchangers.
  • a guide channel 56 extending in the vertical direction is formed adjacent to the third receiving section 50.8.
  • the guide channel 56 is separated from the receiving section 50.8 by means of four partition members 56.1 arranged in pairs, each of the partition members 56.1 extending in a plane transversal to the width direction Y.
  • a vertical slot 56.2 extends between each pair of these spaced 56.1 partition members 56.1 .
  • a plurality of horizontal struts 50.10 extend between the walls 50.1 , 50.4, 50.5 and wall segments 50.2, 50.3.
  • the plurality of struts 50.10 bring structural reinforcement to the module carrier 50.
  • a protruding element 50.9 is arranged on the lower rear side of the module carrier 50, wherein the protruding element 50.9 extends at an angle from the exterior wall 50.1 .
  • the third interface 54 comprises an upwardly open groove 55 extending along the width direction Y.
  • FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 illustrate a side element 12 having a blocking piece 14 with a downwardly tapered profile 15 for fixing the blocking piece 14 in the groove 55 of the third interface 54.
  • a length of the groove 55 in the width direction Y may be larger than a length of the blocking piece 14.
  • the blocking piece 14 actually comprises a V-shaped bar 17 extending in Y direction and provided on at least one side of with a gripping structure 18.
  • the gripping structure 18 comprises a plurality of parallel ridges in the vertical plane. Each ridge of the plurality of ridges has a substantially triangular profile when seen from a plane perpendicular to the height direction Z (not shown).
  • other gripping structures and I or ridge forms are also possible.
  • the groove 55 is formed between opposite first and second wall segments 57, 58.
  • the first wall segment 57 and the second wall segment 58 form an at least partially tapered profile of the groove 55.
  • the profile of the groove 55 tapers along the height direction Z. It must be noted that the first wall segment 57 and the second wall segment 58 may alternatively form at least partially a V-shaped profile of the groove 55 and/or form at least partially a II- shaped profile of the groove 55.
  • the profile of the groove 55 shown in FIG. 2 corresponds to the tapered/tapering profile of the blocking piece 14.
  • the first wall segment 57 is provided with a ribbing, respectively a plurality of ribs arranged parallel to each other, in a direction perpendicular to the width direction Y.
  • the ribbing engages with the gripping structure 18 of the blocking piece 14.
  • the second wall segment may be provided with a ribbing.
  • a plurality of guide elements 59 border the second wall segment 58. The plurality of guide elements 59 arranged on the second wall segment 58 facilitate an insertion of the fixing piece 14 during an assembly.
  • FIG. 2 FIG. 4 and FIG.
  • the plurality of guide elements 59 is integral with the wall segment 58. Each of the guide elements 59 of the plurality of guide elements 59 is spaced apart to an adjacent guide element 59. The plurality of guide elements 59 extend in a direction perpendicular to the with direction Y.
  • Reference sign 16 designates a guide bar 16 protruding from the side element 12 in the Y direction.
  • Guide bar 16 extends in direction Z in the lower region of side element 12. It is here interrupted over its length but could be continuous.
  • the fixing bar 16 has a T-shaped profile, with the web portion extending in direction Y and passing through slot 56.2, and the head of bar transversal thereto and thus blocked inside the guide channel 56.
  • the guide channel 56 and guide bar 16 are configured/ dimensioned to guide the radiator during assembly to the module carrier, by allowing some adjustment in the Y direction.
  • This guiding works together with blocking piece and third interface to adjust the module carrier at the desired distance with respect to the side portion 12.
  • the module carrier can be positioned tightly against the side portion 12, or somewhat spaced therefrom, with the limit allowed by the guide bar/guide channel and blocking piece/third interface.
  • this designs allows compensating for manufacturing tolerances of heat exchangers, whereby the module carriers can be arranged at a selected spacing.
  • the design may allow compensating for tolerances in a range of +/- 3 mm in the width direction Y.
  • the module carrier 50 further comprises a platform 60 extending in the (X, Y) plane and having an oblong opening 61.
  • the oblong opening 61 extends in the width direction Y.
  • the oblong opening 61 allows a fixing element (not shown), such as a screw, to extend through the oblong opening 61 .
  • the fixing element enables a strong fixation of the module carrier 50 to a corresponding side element 12.
  • the side element 12 comprises on a bottom portion 19 a corresponding bore 20 for receiving the fixing element. Due to its oblong shape, opening 61 permits insertion of the screw into bore 20 over a given distance along the width direction Y.
  • bottom surface 19 and platform 60 are rigidly connected and in contact with one another.
  • bottom surface 19 and platform 60 are provided with ribbings, in particular in the form of parallel ribs on both surfaces, extending transversally to the Y direction in order obtain a somewhat interlocking connection to cancel the sliding effect in Y direction under mechanical constraint (thus forming an anti-sliding concept).
  • the radiator 1 is fixed to the module carriers 50.
  • the second radiator 2 is fixed to the first radiator 1 and the grid 3 is attached to the second radiator 2.
  • the module carrier may comprise means configured to engage with I rigidly interlock with the second radiator 2, or more generally with one or more other heat exchangers.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of an assembly frame 70 designed for assembling the cooling module.
  • FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the assembly frame 70 of FIG.6, wherein a heat exchanger 1 is assembled to the respective module carriers 50, 50.
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the assembly frame 70, where the cooling module is entirely assembled on the assembly frame 70.
  • the assembly starts by positioning two module carriers 50 on the assembly frame 70.
  • the first module carrier 50 and the second module carrier 50 are spaced apart by predefined (nominal) distance with the second interfaces 53, 53 facing each other.
  • the first interface 51 (not visible) with grommet 52 of each module carrier 50 is attached to a respective holding element 71 of the frame 70.
  • the distance separating the two module carriers corresponds to the nominal distance of the cooling module, which is the distance separating the corresponding mounting feature in the engine compartment.
  • the radiator 1 is assembled to the module carriers 50.
  • one of the module carriers 50 (right hand side) is provided with a third interface 54 as disclosed hereinbefore).
  • the guide bar 16 is engaged into the guide channel as the bottom portion of the radiator approaches the carrier module platform the third interface 54 provided on the module carrier 50 comes into blocking engagement with the blocking piece 14.
  • the positioning of the radiator 1 is selectively adjusted relative to the module carrier 50 along the width direction Y, as permitted by the guide bar/channel and blocking piece/third interface. Once the desired adjustment is made, the screw is inserted into opening 61 so that the module carrier is fixedly attached to the radiator side portion 12. This is the configuration of Fig.7.
  • the other components of the cooling module 10 may be subsequently assembled to the module carrier, as illustrated by FIG. 8.
  • the mounting sequence of the elements may vary.
  • the discussed examples are embodiments of the invention.
  • the described components of the respective embodiment each represent individual features of the invention which are to be considered independently of each other and which also further develop the invention independently of each other.
  • the features are thus also to be regarded as components of the invention individually or in a combination other than the combination shown.
  • the described embodiments can also be supplemented by further features of the invention already described.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Cooling, Air Intake And Gas Exhaust, And Fuel Tank Arrangements In Propulsion Units (AREA)
  • Heat-Exchange Devices With Radiators And Conduit Assemblies (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un module de refroidissement (10) destiné à un véhicule et comprenant : deux ou plusieurs échangeurs de chaleur (14,16,18) comprenant des parties supérieure et inférieure s'étendant le long d'une direction de largeur (Y) ainsi que des parties latérales (24) s'étendant le long d'une direction de hauteur (Z) ; au moins un support de module (50) configuré pour porter et fixer au moins l'un des échangeurs de chaleur (14), et comprenant : une première interface (50.1) avec des éléments de montage pour fixer le module de refroidissement (50) dans un véhicule ; et une seconde interface (49) configurée pour venir en prise avec la partie latérale (24). Ledit module de refroidissement est caractérisé en ce que ladite partie latérale (24) comprenne une pièce de blocage (24.2) qui coopère avec une troisième interface (50.2) disposée sur le support de module (50) pour former une mise en prise de blocage pendant un assemblage de l'échangeur de chaleur respectif (14) sur le support de module (50). Ladite pièce de blocage (24.2) et ladite troisième interface (50.2) sont configurées de telle sorte qu'une mise en prise est possible à une pluralité de positions le long de la direction de la largeur (Y), au moyen de laquelle le positionnement de l'échangeur de chaleur (14) par rapport au support de module (50) peut être réglé sélectivement pendant l'assemblage du module de refroidissement (10).
PCT/EP2021/085129 2020-12-11 2021-12-10 Module de refroidissement et procédé d'assemblage dudit module de refroidissement WO2022122990A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CN202180083337.1A CN116568543A (zh) 2020-12-11 2021-12-10 冷却模块和用于组装冷却模块的方法
DE112021006416.9T DE112021006416T5 (de) 2020-12-11 2021-12-10 Kühlmodul und Verfahren zur Montage eines Kühlmoduls

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
LU102292A LU102292B1 (en) 2020-12-11 2020-12-11 Cooling module and method for assembling a cooling module
LULU102292 2020-12-11

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2022122990A1 true WO2022122990A1 (fr) 2022-06-16

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/EP2021/085129 WO2022122990A1 (fr) 2020-12-11 2021-12-10 Module de refroidissement et procédé d'assemblage dudit module de refroidissement

Country Status (4)

Country Link
CN (1) CN116568543A (fr)
DE (1) DE112021006416T5 (fr)
LU (1) LU102292B1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2022122990A1 (fr)

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1247681A2 (fr) * 2001-04-06 2002-10-09 Renault s.a.s. Dispositif de fixation d'un èchangeur de chaleur de véhicule automobile
US6470961B1 (en) * 2002-01-08 2002-10-29 General Motors Corporation Condenser, radiator and fan assembly module
FR3001919A1 (fr) * 2013-02-08 2014-08-15 Faurecia Bloc Avant Dispositif de support pour un equipement de vehicule automobile, notamment pour un groupe moto-ventilateur
DE102016211059A1 (de) * 2016-06-21 2017-12-21 Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft System zur Befestigung von Kühlermodulen mit mindestens einem Lagerzapfen in einem oberen Abschnitt eines Montageträger eines Kraftfahrzeuges sowie Zwischenelement für die Aufnahme eines Kühlerlagers eines Kühlermoduls

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1247681A2 (fr) * 2001-04-06 2002-10-09 Renault s.a.s. Dispositif de fixation d'un èchangeur de chaleur de véhicule automobile
US6470961B1 (en) * 2002-01-08 2002-10-29 General Motors Corporation Condenser, radiator and fan assembly module
FR3001919A1 (fr) * 2013-02-08 2014-08-15 Faurecia Bloc Avant Dispositif de support pour un equipement de vehicule automobile, notamment pour un groupe moto-ventilateur
DE102016211059A1 (de) * 2016-06-21 2017-12-21 Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft System zur Befestigung von Kühlermodulen mit mindestens einem Lagerzapfen in einem oberen Abschnitt eines Montageträger eines Kraftfahrzeuges sowie Zwischenelement für die Aufnahme eines Kühlerlagers eines Kühlermoduls

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN116568543A (zh) 2023-08-08
LU102292B1 (en) 2022-06-13
DE112021006416T5 (de) 2023-10-05

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