Frame for multiple vehicle heat exchangers

US7121369B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Modine Manufacturing Company · US

Inventors

• Ralf Beck · Reutlingen, DE
• Werner Nitsche · Lippstadt, DE
• Roland Strahle · Unterensingen, DE
• Jens Nies · Holzgerlingen, DE
• Heinrich Rockenfeller · Kirchentellinsfurt, DE
• Wilfried Bittner · Sha Tin, CN

Key dates

• Filing date: Oct 28, 2003
• Grant date: Oct 17, 2006
• Expiry date: Jun 9, 2024

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F01P2070/50
• WIPO field: Thermal processes and apparatus
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A frame supports heat exchangers one in front of another in the direction of flow of cooling air, and includes two vertical walls interconnected by transverse walls, cross braces between the walls, and fastening points on the walls adapted to fasten the heat exchangers to the frame. Outwardly extending bulging sections in the vertical walls include an outer portion adapted to be secured to the vehicle support members to support the frame thereon, and an inner portion defining a space between vertical wall sections above and below the bulging section for receive projecting components of at least one heat exchanger. Connectors connect each of the fastening openings to the aligned flange openings, with the connectors including a head and a stem with an expandable end opposite the head retaining the connectors in the aligned openings. Hooks support the heat exchangers in the direction of air flow, with the connector stems supporting against at least some forces transverse to the direction of air flow.