Heat Exchanger, Box for Receiving a Fluid for a Heat Exchanger, and Method for the Production of Such a Box

The invention relates to a heat exchanger, a box for receiving a fluid for a heat exchanger and a method for the production of such a box.

A box for receiving a fluid for a heat exchanger is known from EP 1 139 054 B1. This known box has a base with receiving slots for connecting tubes or flat tubes and a cover arranged opposite this base. This cover is formed in one piece with the two end walls.

The object of the invention is to create an inexpensive and easily manufactured fluid box for a heat exchanger.

According to the invention, a box for receiving a fluid is proposed in particular as claimed in claim 1 or as claimed in claim 19. A heat exchanger according to the invention is the subject of claim 31. A method for the production of a fluid box for a heat exchanger is the subject of claim 32. Preferred further developments are the subject of the subclaims.

According to the invention, a box is proposed in particular for receiving a fluid. This fluid is preferably coolant, so that the box is also referred to as a coolant reservoir, without this being intended as a limitation. This coolant reservoir is preferably intended for a heat exchanger, such as a heat exchanger for a motor vehicle. The coolant reservoir has two side walls, two end walls, a cover and a base. It is intended in particular that the side walls are arranged spaced from one another and preferably parallel to one another. The same applies analogously to the end walls. The cover and the base are also in particular spaced from one another. The base has one or more receiving openings for tubes. These are in particular connecting tubes. The tubes can, for example, be designed as flat tubes and form part of a tube-and-fin block.

It is possible that a separate opening in the base is provided for each separate tube. A large opening can also be provided, however, to receive all the tubes of the tube-and-fin block.

It is in particular intended that the addressed end walls, the addressed side walls, the base and the cover limit the inside of the coolant reservoir.

At least one recess is provided in the cover into which one wall extends. This wall extends preferably with its ends into this recess. The wall is in particular oriented transversely to the side walls. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the wall is an end wall of the coolant reservoir. It is intended with particular preference that several such recesses are provided. It can, for example, be provided—with particular preference—that such a recess is provided in the cover for each of the two end walls. The recess(es) of the cover each intended to receive such a wall are, in particular, formed without passing through the cover.

It is furthermore possible that—alternatively or in addition—a recess is provided in the cover into which a partition wall extends, said partition wall dividing the inside of the coolant reservoir into sub-chambers. For the sake of simplification, reference is made below to the recess, although it should be pointed out that in preferred embodiment, several recesses are provided, and in particular one or more recesses in each case for the end walls of the coolant reservoir.

The recess is preferably designed in the form of a bead or as a bead. The wall, in particular an end wall or partition wall, preferably extends into the recess in such a way that the wall—as seen in the longitudinal direction of the coolant reservoir—is supported in at least one, but particularly preferably in both orientations, by the recess. A recess is formed in particular as a rearward offset. It is also possible, however, for a recess to be formed in that two spaced projections are provided, between which the recess is then formed, in particular with respect to these projections.

The cover recess to receive a wall can also be formed as a groove or in groove form.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the recess has one or more chamfers. In particular the borders of the recess lying in longitudinal direction of the coolant reservoir can run towards one another as seen in the depth direction of this recess. The cross section of this recess that is formed in particular by the above-mentioned borders or by means of these borders can have, for example, an ellipse arc form or have a semicircular, triangular, polygonal, rectangular or square form, whereby this is not intended to limit the forms of this recess. Other forms of the recess are thus also preferred, whereby it should be pointed out that in a particularly preferred embodiment, chamfers are provided.

Such a recess can, for example, have a rounded form, and in particular in the cross section. The recess can, for example, extend over the whole width of the cover or extends substantially over the whole width of the cover. It is also preferred that it extends substantially over the whole width in such a way, however, that—seen in longitudinal direction of the recess—lateral wall sections or webs are left. It can be intended, for example, that the cover has tabs or sections that engage around the end walls. The cover preferably has a substantially U-shaped cross section when seen transversely to the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal direction is in particular the direction running from the one end wall of the coolant reservoir to the other end wall of the coolant reservoir.

In a preferred embodiment the cover has a U-shape in the cross section so that two spaced flanges are formed that are connected by means of a connecting section lying between them. This U-shape can, for example, be formed from vertical or almost vertical sections. Also rounded embodiments are preferred. In a particularly preferred embodiment, tabs that with particular preference are formed in an arc shape extend from the flanges of the U-shape that are also referred to as legs. These tabs engage preferably around the side walls of the coolant reservoir. It can be preferably provided here that the cover is inserted into the part of the coolant reservoir in such a way that the flanges in the direction facing away from the base of the coolant reservoir extend away from the connecting section and at the ends lying in this direction join up with the tabs that are then bent over outwards so that they engage around the side walls of the coolant reservoir from the outside. It is in particular provided that—when seen in longitudinal direction of the coolant reservoir—several such tabs are provided spaced on the cover.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the cover is formed in one piece and is made from a one-piece part, in particular a metal plate. The cover is in particular manufactured separately from the side walls, the end walls and the base.

These side walls, these end walls and this base are preferably also—as a unit—formed in one piece and made from a one-piece part, in particular a one-piece metal plate.

The transition from the base to the end walls is preferably formed in one piece, and particularly preferably free from joining means such as solder points or such like. The end walls are particularly preferably bent away from the base.

The base preferably has a curved form.

Furthermore, according to the invention a box is proposed in particular for receiving a fluid such as coolant as claimed in claim 19.

This box is intended for a heat exchanger or can form part of a heat exchanger. The box is intended in particular for motor vehicles or for heat exchangers of motor vehicles. The box has a cover and a base arranged on the opposite side of this box to the cover. One or more openings are provided in this base to receive tubes. These tubes are in particular connecting or flat tubes. These tubes can, for example, connect the box hydraulically with a further box of the same heat exchanger or terminate in diversion sections. The box furthermore has several walls that are arranged essentially transversely to this cover and transversely to this base. These walls can, for example, be arranged perpendicularly to this cover and/or perpendicularly to this base.

A first wall of these walls that are arranged essentially transversely to this cover and/or to the base has at least one recess into which a third wall extends or engages, in particular with an edge section of this third wall.

Furthermore, a second wall of these walls that are arranged essentially transversely to this cover and/or to the base has at least one recess into which the third wall also extends or engages, in particular with an edge section of this third wall.

In an advantageous embodiment, the third wall extends essentially transversely to the first wall and essentially transversely to the second wall. For example, the third wall can be arranged perpendicularly to the first wall and perpendicularly to the second wall.

It is in particular possible for the first wall to be positioned at a distance from the second wall. For example, the first wall is positioned at a distance from and parallel to the second wall.

In an advantageous further development, the third wall is one of the walls that are arranged essentially transversely and/or perpendicularly to this cover and/or to the base.

It is in particular possible that with one of two opposed ends of this third wall, the third wall extends into or engages in a recess of the first wall and with the opposite end section extends into or engages in the recess of the second wall.

According to a particularly preferable embodiment, the third wall is held in the recess of the first and the second wall, and in particular in each case in relation to a plane running transversely and/or perpendicularly to the third wall. It is possible that this “holding” of the third wall in the recesses of the first and the second wall is effected or made possible in that these recesses in conjunction with the base are essentially closed around the perimeter in a plane extending essentially transversely and/or perpendicularly to the third wall. This can, for example, be effected in that on the side of the respective recess of the first and the second wall facing towards the base, this base forms a stop for the third wall, and that in the direction of the cover and transversely or perpendicularly to the third wall in both orientations, the limiting wall sections of the recesses form stops for the third wall.

In an advantageous embodiment, the recess of the first wall and/or the recess of the second wall is formed as a groove or as an embossed bead. In a preferable embodiment, the addressed first wall and the addressed second wall each form the side walls, namely opposite side walls, of the box.

It is also possible that the first wall and the second wall are each end walls, namely opposite end walls, of the box.

In an advantageous embodiment, the third wall is a partition wall by means of which the inside of the box is subdivided into sub-chambers.

Furthermore it is possible for the first wall to be a side wall or end wall of the box, and for the second wall to be a partition wall of the box with which the inside of the box is divided into different chambers.

According to an advantageous further development it is possible that of the walls that are essentially arranged transversely to the cover of the box and transversely to the base of the box, one wall is a fourth wall, one wall is a fifth wall and one wall is a sixth wall. In this advantageous further development it is possible in particular that this sixth wall is arranged preferably perpendicularly to the fourth wall and transversely to the fifth wall. Here it is possible in particular that the fourth wall and this fifth wall each have at least one recess and that the sixth wall extends into this recess of the fourth wall and into this recess of the fifth wall or engages in each of the addressed recesses.

In particular the first wall, the second wall and the third wall can be different walls. In a corresponding manner it is in particular possible that the fourth wall, the fifth wall and the sixth wall are different walls.

It is furthermore possible that none of the first, the second and the third walls is identical with one of the fourth, the fifth and the sixth walls.

It is alternatively preferred, however, that the fourth wall is the third wall. This can be effected, for example, in that the first wall and the second wall are side walls of the box, and the third wall is a partition wall of this box by means of which the box is divided into different chambers. It can then be provided that the fifth wall is an end wall of the box and the sixth wall extends into the recess of the fourth wall that is identical with the third wall and is a partition wall by means of which the inside of the box is divided into different chambers.

In a corresponding manner it is possible that the first and the second wall are each an end wall of the box, the third wall is a partition wall of the box by means of which the inside of the box is divided into different sub-chambers, and the fifth wall is a side wall of the box, whereby the sixth wall is a partition wall by means of which the box is divided into different sub-chambers, and whereby the third wall is identical with the fourth wall.

In an advantageous embodiment the first wall, second wall and third wall or the fourth wall, fifth wall and sixth wall each have relatively narrow surrounding edges, and lying transversely hereto relatively large areas of their surfaces. The addressed recesses that are provided in the first wall and the second wall and/or in the fourth wall and the fifth wall are thereby preferably provided in the large surface sections lying transversely to the surrounding edge.

In a particularly preferable embodiment it is possible that the first wall and the second wall of the box are each connected in one piece with the base of the box. This can be effected in particular in that the first wall and the second wall and the base are made of one piece, such as for example metal plate. This can be effected, for example, in that the plate is deep-drawn to form this first and second wall and to form this bases and is produced in a bending process.

In an advantageous further development of the invention the third wall has two opposed side edges or side edge sections or narrow sides that extend essentially transversely to the cover and transversely, preferably essentially perpendicularly, to the base of the box and of which one—in particular completely—extends into the recess of the first wall and of which the other—in particular completely—extends into the recess of the second wall.

It is also possible that two opposed side edges or side edge sections or narrow sides of the third wall each form projections, whereby the projection that is formed on the one of these two opposed side edges or side edge sections or narrow sides extends into the recess of the first wall, and whereby the projection that is formed in the other of these two opposed side edges or side edge sections or narrow sides of the third wall extends into the recess of the second wall. It can thereby be provided that the two addressed opposed side edges or side edge sections or narrow sides of the third wall form additional sections that do not extend into the recess of the first or second wall.

In a corresponding manner it is possible that the sixth wall forms projections on two opposed side edges or side edge sections or narrow sides that extend into the recess of the fourth or fifth wall, whereby these opposed side edges or side edge sections or narrow sides of the sixth wall form sections that do not extend into the addressed recesses.

Also with respect to the third wall it is, however, also possible that the one of two opposed side edges or narrow sides extends—in particular completely—into a recess of the fourth wall extends and the other of these two opposed side edges or narrow sides of the sixth wall extends—in particular completely—into a recess of the fifth wall.

In an advantageous further development, the base of the box has at least one recess, whereby the third wall extends into this recess of the base. It is thereby possible that, for example, this recess provided in the base is formed as a groove or as an embossed bead.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the recess provided to receive the third wall in the first wall and/or the recess provided to receive the third wall in the second wall and/or the recess provided to receive the third wall in the base extends in an essentially linear manner.

In a particularly preferable embodiment, the cover of the box has a recess and the third wall extends into this recess of the box. Furthermore it is possible that the cover also has a recess into which the first wall extends, and a recess into which the second wall extends. If the addressed fourth, fifth and sixth wall exist, it is also possible that the cover to receive these walls also has corresponding recesses. The addressed recesses that can be provided in the cover to receive the addressed walls can, for example, each be formed as a bead or as an embossed groove.

With such an embodiment it is possible, for example, that the first wall and the second wall are each side walls of the box. In combination therewith it is furthermore possible that the two opposite end walls also each extend into a recess of the cover.

It is also possible, however, that the first wall and the second wall are each an end wall of the box. With such an embodiment it is furthermore possible that the opposed side walls each extend into a recess of the cover.

The addressed recesses of the cover can each be in particular grooves or beads or similar formations.

In a particularly preferable embodiment the surrounding edge or the narrow sides of the third wall essentially extend completely into recesses on all sides. This can be achieved in particular in that recesses are provided in each of the first wall, second wall, base and cover that in combination are closed around their perimeter in such a way that the third wall essentially extends completely into this recess arrangement around its perimeter.

It is possible that the recesses in the first wall and in the second wall provided to receive the third wall lie in a plane. This can in particular be a plane that lies transversely, preferably perpendicularly, to the direction of extension—in particular the direction of longitudinal extension—of the base.

Insofar as the base and/or the cover each have recesses to receive the third wall, it is possible that the recesses provided in the first wall, in the second wall and in the base and/or cover to receive the third wall lie in a plane.

It is possible that the recesses provided in the first wall, in the second wall and in the base and/or in the cover to receive the third wall are formed together.

In a preferred embodiment, the recess or bead provided in the first wall to receive the third wall is located at a distance from the end of this first wall facing towards the cover. Furthermore it is preferred that the recess or bead provided in the second wall to receive the third wall is located at a distance from the end of this second wall facing towards the cover. For example it is possible that the addressed recesses or beads—as addressed—are located at a distance from the end of the first or second wall facing towards the cover and extend continuously from their point nearest to this end essentially to the end of the first or second wall facing towards the base. It is furthermore preferred that the addressed recesses or beads in the area of the base have a transition into a recess or bead provided in the base, so that the recesses or beads of the first wall, of the base and of the second wall in combination form an essentially U-shaped (in cross section) recess or bead. It is furthermore particularly preferred that a recess or bead to receive the third wall is provided in the cover. This is preferably achieved in that the recess or bead of the cover, the recess or bead of the first wall, the recess or bead of the base and the recess or bead of the second wall in combination form a closed recess or bead around their perimeter into which the edge areas around the perimeter—preferably completely closed—of the third wall extend or into which these are received.

It is also possible, however, that the recesses or beads provided in the first wall and the second wall to receive the third wall each extend up to the end of the corresponding wall facing towards the cover where in an end section they are formed with an essentially step form or possibly also with chamfers. This can be effected in that projections—preferably in each case two projections—are provided on each of the opposed sides of the third wall in such a way that these projections can be guided over this step-like recess or bead. It is possible that a shoulder is provided so that the upper projection of the third wall in each case is turned in the recess or bead at the end of the insertion such that the third wall or partition wall is essentially aligned perpendicularly to the direction of longitudinal extension of the box. If necessary it can thereby be clamped as a result of the interaction of the projections with the addressed step-like recesses or beads, in particular step-shaped sections of the bead.

In an advantageous embodiment, however, the third wall engages in the recess of the first and the second wall in each case like a snap connection. This can be effected in that the first and the second wall and the base are formed in one piece, the first and second walls that in particular with such an embodiment can also be referred to as base flanks are made up or bent upwards to receive or to be able to receive the third wall in the addressed recesses or beads, whereby the third wall and the first and the second wall subsequently snap back and hence hold the third wall in the addressed recesses or beads.

It is furthermore preferred that the third wall forms a snap connection in conjunction with the recesses or beads of the first and the second wall, and that the third wall is held against the first and the second wall by means of additional connection means, such as a welded joint or soldered joint.

In a particularly preferable embodiment, the third wall has a tab that extends outwards through an opening in one of the walls forming the outer limit of the box or through the cover of this box, and thus indicates that a third wall or partition wall has already been installed.

A heat exchanger is furthermore proposed according to the invention, in particular as claimed in claim 31, that in particular is a radiator for a motor vehicle.

Furthermore, a method is proposed according to the invention in particular as claimed in claim 32.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained below by reference to the figures.

FIG. 1
a shows an exemplary heat exchanger according to the invention designed as a radiator, with an exemplary box according to the invention for receiving a fluid that here is a coolant reservoir;

FIG. 1
b shows the heat exchanger according to FIG. 1 in a view from above;

FIG. 1
c shows a side view of the heat exchanger according to FIG. 1;

FIG. 2
a shows a unit of a coolant reservoir of the heat exchanger according to FIG. 1 with two side walls, two end walls and a base in a view from above onto one of the two side walls;

FIG. 2
b shows the unit according to FIG. 2a in a view from above onto the base;

FIG. 2
c shows the unit according to FIG. 2a in a view from above onto the other of the two side walls;

FIG. 2
d shows a partial sectional view along the line A-A from FIG. 2b;

FIG. 2
e shows a (sectional) view of the embodiment according to FIG. 2a from the right;

FIG. 2
f shows a sectional view along the line B-B from FIG. 2b;

FIG. 3
a shows an exemplary embodiment of a cover of a box according to the invention in a side view, whereby this embodiment of the cover is used in particular in the embodiment according to FIG. 1a to 3k;

FIG. 3
b shows the cover according to FIG. 3a in a view from above;

FIG. 3
c shows the cover according to FIG. 3a in a three-dimensional oblique view from below;

FIG. 3
d shows a section along the line C-C from FIG. 3a;

FIG. 3
e shows a section along the line D-D from FIG. 3b in a partial view;

FIG. 3
f shows a section along the line E-E from FIG. 3b;

FIG. 3
g shows a section along the line F-F from FIG. 3a;

FIG. 3
h shows a section along the line G-G from FIG. 3a;

FIG. 3
i shows an oblique view of a section of the cover with tabs according to FIG. 3a from above;

FIG. 3
k shows an enlarged detail from FIG. 3a;

FIG. 4 shows a detail of an exemplary box according to the invention, whereby the embodiment according to FIG. 4 can also be used in the embodiment according to FIG. 1a to 3k;

FIG. 5 shows the embodiment according to FIG. 4 in a view from above;

FIG. 6 shows a detail of an exemplary box according to the invention, whereby the embodiment according to FIG. 6 can also be used in the embodiment according to FIG. 1a to 3k and/or can be combined with an embodiment according to FIG. 4 and 5; and

FIG. 7 shows a detail of an exemplary box according to the invention, whereby the embodiment according to FIG. 7 can also be used in the embodiment according to FIG. 1a to 3k and/or can be combined with an embodiment according to FIG. 4 and 5.

FIG. 8
a shows an exemplary box according to the invention for receiving a fluid for a heat exchanger, whereby the cover of the box has been removed, in a diagrammatic exploded view and with the partition wall before assembly;

FIG. 8
b shows the embodiment according to FIG. 8a with engaged partition wall;

FIG. 8
c shows a base section or a section through the base and the side walls of the embodiment according to FIG. 8b;

FIG. 8
d shows a base section or a section through the base and the side walls of the embodiment according to FIG. 8b in the area in which the bead to receive the partition wall is provided;

FIG. 9
a shows the partition wall from the embodiment according to FIG. 8a or FIG. 8b;

FIG. 9
b shows a side view of the partition wall from FIG. 9a;

FIG. 10
a shows a frontal view of the cover of the box removed in FIG. 8a or FIG. 8b;

FIG. 10
b shows a three dimensional oblique view of the cover according to FIG. 10a;

FIG. 10
c shows a section along the line Xc-Xc from FIG. 10a in a view rotated through 90°;

FIG. 10
d shows a section along the line Xd-Xd from FIG. 10a in a view rotated through 90°;

FIG. 10
e shows a section along the line Xe-Xe from FIG. 10a in a view rotated through 90°;

FIG. 10
f shows a section along the line Xf-Xf from FIG. 10a;

FIG. 10
g shows a section along the line Xg-Xg from FIG. 10a;

FIG. 10
h shows an oblique view of a section of the cover with tabs according to FIG. 10a from above; and

FIG. 11 shows a section through the box according to FIG. 8b on which the cover according to FIG. 10a to 10h is fitted, in the area of the partition wall.

FIG. 1
a to FIG. 3k show an exemplary embodiment of a heat exchanger 1 according to the invention with a box according to the invention for receiving a fluid. This box for receiving a fluid is in particular a coolant reservoir, so that for the sake of simplification, reference is made below to the coolant reservoir.

The heat exchanger 1 has a first coolant reservoir 10 and a second coolant reservoir 12 located at a distance herefrom, as well as a tube-and-fin block 14 arranged between these coolant reservoirs 10, 12.

The tube-and-fin block 14 has a plurality of parallel oriented connecting tubes that in this example are designed as flat tubes. Tube spaces are formed between these connecting tubes—transversely to their longitudinal direction—in which ribs are arranged in the known manner such that air can flow through the tube-and-fin block transversely to the plane formed by the tube arrangement.

The connecting tubes of the tube-and-fin block 14 all terminate with a first end in the first coolant reservoir 10 and with their second end in the second coolant reservoir 12.

The coolant reservoirs 10, 12 each have a first unit 16, 16a respectively, and a cover 18, 18a respectively.

The first unit 16, 16a has a base 20, 20a on the side opposite the cover 18, 18a. Furthermore, the first unit 16, 16a has a first side wall 22, 22a, a second side wall 24, 24a opposite this first side wall 22, 22a, a first end wall 26, 26a limiting the inside of the coolant reservoir 10, 12 in a first orientation of its longitudinal direction (indicated by the double arrow 30) and a second end wall 28, 28a limiting this inside of the first 10 or second coolant reservoir in the opposite orientation (of this longitudinal direction 30). The side walls 22, 24, 22a, 24a and the base 20, 20a also limit the inside of the coolant reservoir 10, 12.

The inside of the coolant reservoir 10, 12 is furthermore limited by the cover 18, 18a.

In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 1a to 3k (that can also be different), the heat exchanger 1 that is also referred to or can be designed as a radiator is divided functionally into two (part-) radiators or (part-) heat exchangers. For this purpose, a partition wall 32, 34 is provided—when seen in longitudinal direction 30—transversely to this longitudinal direction 30 at the same height in both coolant reservoirs 10, 12. Further partition walls (that are not shown in the figure) may also be provided in the coolant reservoirs 10, 12 arranged at different heights in the longitudinal direction 30 that effect a serpentine-like diversion of the coolant.

It is possible, for example, that the upper part-radiator in FIG. 1a is part of a high-temperature coolant circuit and the lower part-radiator 38 is part of a low-temperature coolant circuit.

A main sleeve 40, 42 terminates in each of the first coolant reservoir 10 and the second coolant reservoir 12, whereby coolant can flow into the upper part-radiator 36 via one of these main sleeves 40, 42 while the coolant can flow out of the upper part-radiator 36 again via the other of these sleeves 40, 42.

In a corresponding manner, the lower part-radiator 38 has a sleeve 44 terminating in the first coolant reservoir 10 and a sleeve 46 terminating in the second coolant reservoir 12, whereby here also coolant can flow into the lower part-radiator 38 via one of these sleeves 44, 46 and can flow out of this lower part-radiator 38 through the other of these sleeves 46, 44.

Furthermore, a drain plug 48 for draining coolant is also provided in the area of the first coolant reservoir 10. In addition, a sleeve 50 for filling with coolant and/or for venting is provided in the area of the first coolant reservoir 10, here in the area of the upper end.

FIG. 1
b shows a view from above onto the embodiment according to FIG. 1a. FIG. 1c shows a side view of the embodiment according to FIG. 1a from the left side.

FIG. 2
a to 2f show different views of the first coolant reservoir 10 or the first unit 16 of this first coolant reservoir 10.

FIG. 2
a and 2c show a view from above onto side walls 22, 24 from the outside. FIG. 2b shows a view from above onto the base 20 from the outside.

FIG. 2
a and 2c show clearly that the base 20 has a wave form.

FIG. 2
b shows clearly that slot-like openings are provided in the base to receive the flat tubes of the tube-and-fin block 14.

From FIG. 2a and 2c—as in FIG. 1a—it can also be clearly seen that the end of the side walls 22, 24 facing away from the tube-and-fin block 14 is designed essentially straight for the most part, and has a curved section in the area in which the main sleeve is arranged. This curved section is provided in particular as the main sleeve 40 has correspondingly large dimensions here.

FIG. 2
a and 2c show that the partition wall 32 does not extend up to the end of the side walls 22, 24 facing away from the tube-and-fin block. Nevertheless, this partition wall 32 divides the inside 62 of the coolant reservoir 10 into two sub-chambers 64, 66. This is made possible in that the cover not shown in FIG. 2a to 2f is pushed into the first unit 16 so far that it is essentially in contact with this partition wall 32.

FIG. 2
d shows a sectional view along the line A-A from FIG. 2b in a partial view. FIG. 2e shows a side view and corresponding sectional view of the embodiment according to FIG. 2a from the right. FIG. 2f shows a sectional view along the line B-B from FIG. 2b. There it can be clearly seen that the base 20 is curved.

In FIG. 2d it can be clearly seen that the base with its wave shape in longitudinal direction 30 and curved shape between the side walls 22, 24 forms entry chamfers for the flat tubes of the tube-and-fin block 14 with its wave-like profile. The slots 60 are thereby arranged essentially in the area of the lower points of the wave profile when seen from the outside. The wave structure furthermore produces a certain stiffening effect in the area of the base.

FIG. 2
d shows that the transition area 68 between the base 20 and the end wall 26, 28 is formed in one piece. The dotted section 70 indicates schematically that end walls 26, 28 are folded upwards or bent upwards during the course of the production. The end walls 26, 28 can, for example, be bent here against a stop or against an end face, in particular an end face of the side walls 22, 24.

FIG. 2
c and FIG. 2d show furthermore that in their end sections facing towards the side walls 22, 24, the end walls 26, 28 each have lateral tabs or folded-up sections 72. These tabs 72 extend in longitudinal direction 30 or in the direction of the side walls 22, 24 from the end wall 26, 28 and are soldered to the side walls 22, 24 on the outside or inside, for example, by means of solder cladding. Alternatively it is possible that such tabs 72 are provided on each of the side walls 22 and 24 at corresponding points and that these tabs are bent over so that they extend in the direction of the end wall plane and are soldered to the corresponding end wall, in particular by means of solder cladding.

FIG. 3
a to 3k show an exemplary cover of the coolant reservoir 10.

FIG. 3
a here shows a side view of the cover 18, FIG. 3b a view of the cover 18 from above, FIG. 3c a three-dimensional view of the cover 18 from below, FIG. 3d a sectional view along the line C-C from FIG. 3a, FIG. 3e a partial sectional view along the line D-D from FIG. 3b, FIG. 3f a sectional view along the line E-E from FIG. 3b, FIG. 3g a sectional view along the line F-F from FIG. 3a and FIG. 3h a sectional view along the line G-G from FIG. 3a.

FIG. 3
i shows an oblique view from above of the cover according to FIG. 3a in the area of the tabs arranged at the ends of the legs. FIG. 3k shows an enlarged detail of the area 80 from FIG. 3a.

The cover 18 has an essentially U-shaped cross section as seen in longitudinal direction 30, as can be clearly seen from FIG. 3c, 3d, 3f, 3g, 3h and 3i.

This U-shape has a roughly rectangular form and is created by two spaced legs 82, 84 that can also be referred to as flanges, and a connecting section 86 connecting these two legs.

This cover 18 is fitted on the side of the first unit 16 facing away from the base 20 in such a way that the connecting section 86 is facing towards this base and the legs 82, 84 extend from the connecting section 16 in the direction facing away from the base.

Several tabs 88 extend away from the legs 82, 84 of the U-shaped profile.

In the exemplary embodiment, these tabs 88 have an arched form. The tabs 88 extend away from the ends of the legs 82, 84 facing away from the connecting section 86, and are in particular bent outwards. These tabs 88 can, however, also have a bent form rather than the arched form. End sections of the side walls 22, 24 are received in the tabs 88. In the area of these tabs, the side walls 22, 24 can be soldered to the cover, and in particular by solder cladding. The cover is soldered in particular to the first unit in such a way that a tight joint is created, whereby in particular the method of the solder cladding is employed.

The tabs 88 are arranged at a distance from one another as seen in longitudinal direction 30 in such a way that in this longitudinal direction 30, tab-free areas are created on the legs 82, 84 between adjacent tabs 88.

The tabs 88 are continued along the legs 82, 84 in such a way that the cover can be produced from a single plate.

In view of the size of the opening 40, the cover has a curve that is essentially adapted to the course of the side walls 22, 24. The cover furthermore has recesses 90, 92, 94. These recesses run transversely and/or perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction 30 over roughly the whole cover.

The recesses 90, 92 serve to receive the end walls 26, 28. These recesses 90, 92 have chamfers that favor the insertion of the end walls and/or permit centering. The recesses 90, 92 support the end walls 26, 28 in longitudinal direction 30, and in particular on both sides or in both orientations.

The recess 94 that here has an essentially rectangular cross section, but which can alternatively also have chamfers or be curved, serves to receive the partition wall 32. The recesses 90, 92, 94 simplify in particular also the soldering process in that the corresponding end or partition walls can be inserted there and can subsequently be soldered. This embodiment can, under certain circumstances, be suitable for a complete soldering, in other words the whole heat exchanger is soldered in a single working operation, whereby the soldering is simplified, for example, by a solder cladding of some or all the parts.

As can be clearly seen from FIG. 3k, the recesses 90, 92 end in this exemplary embodiment in a tab-like section 96 that engages around the end wall 26, 28 from the outside. This tab-like section 96 is formed in such a way that it first essentially contacts the corresponding end wall 26, 28 and then the free end extends at an angle away from this end wall so that a space is created between the free end and the corresponding end wall that favors the soldering process.

The recesses 90, 92 and 94 that in particular are beads or beads with insertion chamfers can serve in particular for the fixing and/or the compensation of play in the end walls.

FIGS. 4, 5, 6 and 7 show a few exemplary details of an exemplary coolant reservoir 10, 12 according to the invention, whereby it should be pointed out that the embodiments according to FIG. 4 to 7 can also be used in the embodiment according to FIG. 1a to 3k.

FIG. 4 shows a side view of a partially completed first unit 16. In particular the opposite side walls 22 and 24 and the base 20 that here has a curved shape are shown there. This one-piece unit 16 is formed from a single plate that was first punched and on which the side walls 22, 24 were bent over. Before the bending over of the side walls or after the bending over of the side walls, the base 20 was formed in a forming process, for example, by deep drawing, whereby other forming processes such as hydroforming or simple drawing, embossing and/or bending are also conceivable. As a result, a closed section 110 of an end wall is formed. In the area of the bent edge 112, a section extends in this stage of production out of the plane of the figure that serves to form the end wall 26. This can be clearly seen also in FIG. 5 that shows a view from above onto the embodiment according to FIG. 4. The end wall 26 shown there does not yet have its final assembled position.

In order to bring the end wall 26 into its position, it is bent—in FIG. 5 upwards—about the folding or bending edge 112 during the course of the production process so that it contacts the end-face end of the side walls 22, 24 with its lateral tabs 112, 114. These tabs 112, 114 are subsequently also bent so that they are arranged essentially parallel to the end walls 22, 24 and hence form areas for a soldered joint with the end wall. As can be clearly seen from FIG. 5, there are triangular recesses in the areas 116, 118 which, for example, are punched and permit a simplified bending in certain applications.

FIGS. 6 and 7 show exemplary embodiments of the recesses 92, whereby the recess 92 or bead 92 in the embodiment according to FIG. 6 has a roughly rectangular form and in the embodiment according to FIG. 7 is essentially roughly semi-circular. These recesses have chamfers—in particular in the embodiment according to FIG. 7—that can also be part of the recess and simplify the insertion of the end wall 26. These recesses or beads 92 can, for example, have a symmetrical form, whereby in particular it is possible that the end wall 26 in its completely inserted position—that is not yet shown in FIGS. 6 and 7—is essentially centered with respect to this recess 92. The tabs 112 are also shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

FIGS. 6 and 7 also show clearly how the tabs 96 engage around the end wall 26 in the area of their free ends.

The box 10, 12 is preferably made of metal, in particular of aluminum.

FIG. 8
a to 11 show a further exemplary embodiment of a box 130 according to the invention for receiving a fluid. The box 130 can also, for example, be a coolant reservoir of a heat exchanger; the box 130 is therefore referred to below as coolant reservoir 130.

It is possible that the coolant reservoir 130 is part of a heat exchanger or heat transfer unit according to the invention that, for example, can be a radiator for a motor vehicle. For example, it is possible that with the embodiment according to FIG. 1a to 1c, the first coolant reservoir 10 there and/or the second coolant reservoir 12 there is modified according to the embodiment of a coolant reservoir 130 shown in FIG. 8a to 11, and in particular with respect to the embodiment and the reception or the reception areas of the partition wall or the partition walls.

In particular it is also possible that the exemplary coolant reservoir 130 explained below by reference to FIG. 8a to 11 is used in the embodiment according to FIG. 1a to 1c instead of the coolant reservoir 12 shown there. In particular against this background, too, the following description of the coolant reservoir 130 explained by reference to FIG. 8a to 11 uses reference numbers that were also used in the description of the coolant reservoir 12. If, during the description of the exemplary coolant reservoir 130 explained by reference to FIG. 8a to 11, reference numbers are used that were not used for corresponding parts, areas or such like in the description of the coolant reservoir 12, but were used in the description of the coolant reservoir 10, a letter “a” is attached to the corresponding reference number relating to the coolant reservoir 10 during the description of FIG. 8a to 11.

The coolant reservoir 130 has a base 20a and a first side wall 22a, a second side wall 24a, a first end wall 26a, a second end wall 28a and a cover 18a. Furthermore the coolant reservoir 130 has a partition wall 34 by means of which the inside 62a of the coolant reservoir 130 is divided into sub-chambers or into two sub-chambers 64a, 66a.

FIG. 8
a and 8b show this coolant reservoir 130, whereby the cover 18a has been removed or is not shown in these two views. In the illustration according to FIG. 8a, the partition wall 34 is not installed or is shown in exploded view in relation to the remaining part of the embodiment shown here; the partition wall is shown there before installation. FIG. 8b shows the addressed embodiment without cover 18a with installed or engaged partition wall 34.

The cover 18a is arranged on the opposite side to the base 20a; this cannot be seen in FIGS. 8a and 8b, but can be seen, for example, in FIG. 11. Several openings 60a for receiving flat tubes are provided in the base 20a. The openings 60a are designed as slot-like openings and are aligned parallel to one another with their directions of longitudinal extension. The addressed flat tubes that in particular are flat tubes of a tube-and-fin block can be inserted into the openings 60a; a hydraulic connection can be produced between the coolant reservoir 130 and a further coolant reservoir by means of these flat tubes.

The coolant reservoir 130 has a main opening 132 for the inlet or outlet of fluid or cooling medium, and a further opening 134 for the inlet or outlet of fluid or cooling medium. The openings 132, 134 can be part of the same coolant circuit or may have a hydraulic connection within the heat exchanger, or may be part of different coolant circuits or may not have a hydraulic connection within the heat exchanger.

A main sleeve can be formed onto the main opening 132—not shown in FIGS. 8a and 8b—and a sleeve can also be formed onto the further opening 134—again not shown.

The first side wall 22a, the second side wall 24a, the first end wall 26a, the second end wall 28a and the partition wall 34 are each aligned essentially transversely or perpendicularly to the cover 18a, as well as transversely or perpendicularly to the base 20a.

It is possible that the first side wall 22a is arranged parallel and transversely to its direction of elongation and at a distance from the second side wall 24a.

The base 20a is formed with a convex curve. This is in particular such that in a cross section observed transversely to the direction of longitudinal elongation of the coolant reservoir, the base 20a has an essentially constant radius, whereby the corresponding arc extends over less than 180°; this can, however, also be different; for example, the base 20a can be straight or have some other form of curve.

A first wall 136 of the walls 22a, 24a, 26a, 28a, 34 arranged essentially transversely or perpendicularly to the cover 18a and/or transversely or perpendicularly to the base 20a has a recess 138 into which or in which the one third wall 140 extends or engages—in particular with an edge section.

A second wall 142 of the walls that extend essentially transversely or perpendicularly to the cover 18a and/or transversely or perpendicularly to the base 20a has a recess 144 into which or in which the third wall 140 extends or engages.

The third wall 140 is arranged transversely, preferably perpendicularly, to the first wall 22a and transversely —preferably perpendicularly—to the second wall 24a.

In the exemplary embodiment the third wall 140 is the partition wall 34, the first wall 136 is the first side wall 22a and the second wall 142 is the second side wall 24a.

It is furthermore possible that the base 20a has a recess 146 into which the third wall 140 also extends—in particular with an edge section.

The recess 138 provided in the first wall 136 extends into the recess 146 provided in the base 20a; the recess 146 provided in the base 20a extends into the recess 144 provided in the second wall 142.

This can be clearly seen in FIG. 8d that shows a section through the side walls 22a, 24a and the base 20a in the area of the partition wall 34, whereby the partition wall 34 is not shown there.

FIG. 8
c shows a corresponding section at a point distant from the partition wall 34 as seen in longitudinal direction 30a of the box 130.

In the exemplary embodiment, the recesses 138, 144, 146 addressed earlier have the form of a bead. This bead 138, 144, 146 or these beads 138, 144, 146 are embossed in the side walls 22a, 24a or in the base 20a. The recesses or the beads 138, 144, 146 are open towards the inside 62a of the coolant reservoir 130.

As can be seen in FIG. 8a, but particularly well in FIG. 8d, the recess or bead 146 provided in the base 20a to receive the partition wall 34 extends essentially over the whole width of the base on its side facing towards the inside 62a.

The recesses or beads 138, 144 provided in the side walls 22a and 24a each extend from the end 156, 158 of the corresponding side wall 22a, 24a facing towards the base 20a—in each case essentially uninterrupted—in the direction facing away from the base to a point 148, 150 distant from the end 152, 154 of the corresponding side wall 22a, 24a facing away from the base 20a.

A continuous recess or bead is thus embossed in the partition wall area up to the distance “a” from the upper edge. This recess or bead has a depth “t”. The depth “t” of the bead is shown in FIG. 8d, as is the distance “a” from the upper edge.

FIG. 8
d shows clearly that the side walls 22a, 24a and the base 20a are formed in one piece. These side walls 22a; 24a and the base 20a can, for example, be made or formed in one piece from a single piece of plate. It is also possible that the end walls 26a, 28a are also produced in one piece with the base 20a and the side walls 22a, 24a, and in particular from a single piece of plate. It is also possible, however, that the end walls 26a, 28a are separate parts that are formed on.

FIG. 9
a shows a view from above onto the partition wall 34 that here is the third wall 140. FIG. 9b shows a side view of the wall 34 or 140 shown in FIG. 9a.

The partition wall 34 can, for example, be manufactured as a punched part. The partition wall 34 is wider than the base and wider than the distance between the base flanks that are referred to here as side walls 22a, 24a. This is in particular such that the inside distance between the side walls 22a, 24a is smaller than the width of the base, and in particular outside the recesses or beads 138, 144. For example, the partition wall can be approx. 0.5 mm wider than the base or than the distance between the side walls 22a, 24a. Instead of the indicated approx. 0.5 mm, however, a difference in width is possible, for example, that lies between 0.1 mm and 3 mm. However, other differences in width are also possible.

When pushing the partition wall into the recess or bead 138, 146, 144, the base flanks or the side walls 22a, 24a are slightly widened or bent open. As soon as the partition wall 34—preferably completely—is in the recess or bead 138, 146, 144, the base flanks or side walls 22a, 24a snap closed or back again.

This is in particular so that the partition wall 34 is held by the recesses or beads 138, 146, 144 or by the side walls 22a, 24a and the base 20a. As a result it is possible, for example, for the partition wall 34 to be held. This can be advantageous, for example, when the partition wall is to be (subsequently) soldered to the side walls 22a, 24a and the base 20a. This can make the use of possibly complex holding devices for holding the partition wall at the intended position during soldering superfluous. This type of soldering of the partition wall 34 with the side walls 22a, 24a and the base 20a is to be preferred. For example, this soldering can be performed by solder cladding or in a soldering furnace. It is furthermore possible that all the parts of the box or the heat exchanger to be soldered can be soldered in one process in particular a process of the above-mentioned type.

The width of the recess or bead 138, 146, 144 can be essentially adapted to the thickness of the partition wall so that the partition wall or the position of the partition wall is essentially fixed in the axial direction of the coolant reservoir 130. A certain play can also be allowed. The partition wall 34 is, however, in particular also held in such a way that it cannot fall out transversely to the direction of longitudinal extension 30a of the coolant reservoir 130.

In particular it can be seen from FIG. 9a that the partition wall 34 has a partition wall tab 160. This partition wall tab 160 is provided here on the side of the partition wall 34 facing away from the base 20a.

The partition wall tab 160 serves or serves only to ensure or indicate the presence of the partition wall 34 after assembly.

For this purpose the cover 18a has an opening 162 through which the addressed tab 160 extends outwards.

It is thus possible to recognize from the outside that the partition wall 34 has been assembled from the presence of the tab 160.

FIG. 10
a shows a view from above onto the cover 18a and FIG. 10b shows a three-dimensional oblique view from above onto the cover 18a. FIG. 10c shows a sectional view along the line Xc-Xc from FIG. 10a. FIG. 10d shows a sectional view along the line Xd-Xd from FIG. 10a. FIG. 10e shows a sectional view along the line Xe-Xe from FIG. 10a. FIG. 10f shows a sectional view along the line Xf-Xf from FIG. 10a. FIG. 10g shows a sectional view along the line Xg-Xg from FIG. 10a. FIG. 10h shows an oblique view from above of a section of the cover 18a according to FIG. 10a fitted with tabs.

The cover 18a shown in FIGS. 10a to 10h is essentially designed the same as the cover 18a from the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 1a to 7.

The cover 18a according to FIGS. 10a to 10h differs from the cover 18 according to the above-mentioned exemplary embodiment explained above by reference to FIG. 3a to 3k essentially in that the curve that is essentially adapted to the course of the side walls and is provided as a result of the opening 40 or 132 is provided at a point offset in longitudinal direction and that the length and arrangement of the tabs 88 or 88a have been adapted and varied accordingly, and in the opening 162 for the partition wall tab 160. Reference is therefore made to the description of the cover 18 in the FIGS. 3a to 3k with respect to the embodiment of the cover 18a according to FIG. 10a to 10h.

In particular the cover 18a thus has recesses or beads 90a, 92a into which the end walls 26a, 28a extend. Furthermore the cover 18a has in particular a recess or bead 94a into which the third wall 140 or the partition wall 34 extends or in which this wall engages.

The cover 18a is advantageously held recessed between the side walls 22a, 24a in such a way that the recess or bead 138 of the first 22a side wall contacts or directly contacts the recess or bead 94a of the cover 20a on the one hand, and on the other hand the recess or bead 144 of the second side wall.

A closed recess or bead is thus formed around the perimeter in particular by the recesses or beads 94a, 138, 146144 in combination into which the closed perimeters of the edge areas of the partition wall 34 or of the third wall 140 extend or are received.

From above the partition wall 34 is enclosed by the cover 18a that in this area also has a corresponding recess or bead 146, as already mentioned. After soldering the small assembly gaps between the parts are completely sealed.

In the description of the figures of the cover 18 shown in FIG. 3a to 3k it was explained that the bead provided to receive the partition wall has an essentially rectangular cross section. The cross section form can, however, also have a different shape, such as for example semi-circular, arc shaped, ellipse shaped or in some other way.

As indicated, the cover 18a is placed onto or into the embodiment shown in FIG. 8b from above.

It should be pointed out that the dimensions and the production instructions entered in the figures, and in particular in FIG. 9a and 9b as well as 10c to 10g, indicate particularly preferred embodiments. The embodiments shown there can consequently also be designed with differing dimensions or produced in a deviating manner from that shown there.

Heat Exchanger, Box for Receiving a Fluid for a Heat Exchanger, and Method for the Production of Such a Box

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