Vehicle front end air control
US6390217B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 2, 2001 |
| Grant date | May 21, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 2, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S160/11
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An assembly is provided to increase the efficiency of a vehicle engine cooling and supplementary, heat pump type cabin heating system. A flexible panel located in front of and below the front end heat exchanger can be moved between open and blocking positions. An engine cooling radiator and fan are located behind the front end heat exchanger. In cold weather heating mode, the flexible panel can be rolled to the blocking position, preventing the direct flow of cold outside ram air through the front end heat exchanger. At the same time, the fan is reversed, flowing heated air from the radiator through the front end heat exchanger, improving its efficiency.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.