Optimization of HVAC Panel Aiming Studies using Parametric Modeling and Automated Simulation

In an Automotive air conditioning system, the air flow distribution in the cabin from the HVAC (Heating, ventilation and air conditioning), ducts and outlets is evaluated by the velocity achieved at driver and passenger mannequin aim points. Multiple simulation iterations are being carried out before finalizing the design of HVAC panel duct and outlets until the target velocity is achieved. In this paper, a parametric modeling of the HVAC outlet is done which includes primary and secondary vane creation using CATIA. Java macro files are created for simulation runs in STAR CCM+. ISIGHT is used as an interface tool between CATIA and STARCCM+. The vane limits of outlet and the target velocity to be achieved at mannequin aim points are defined as the boundary conditions for the analysis. Based on the optimization technique and the number of iterations defined in ISIGHT, the vane angle model gets updated automatically in CATIA followed by the simulation runs in STARCCM+. Based on the results vane angle will get updated and the iterations continues automatically till the target velocity is met at the aim points. The result is compared with the test data and correlated well. Successful validation of the process has led to the application of this methodology during the design phase of new programs. This process significantly aids in reducing the manual effort of design and the simulation runs are automated resulting in the overall reduction of timing required for the panel aiming studies.