Browse Topic: Interiors, Cabins, and Cockpits

Items (7,207)
In both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicles, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems have become significant contributors to in-cabin noise. Although significant efforts have been made across the industry to reduce noise from airflow handling systems, especially blower noise. Nowadays, original equipment manufacture’s (OEMs) are increasingly focusing on mitigating noise generated by refrigeration handling systems. Since the integration of refrigeration components is vital for the overall Noise Vibrations and Harshness (NVH) refinement of a vehicle, analysing the impact of each HVAC component during vehicle-level integration is essential. This study focused on optimizing the NVH performance of key refrigeration components, including the AC compressor, thermal expansion valve (TXV), suction pipe, and discharge line. The research began with a theoretical investigation of the primary noise and vibration sources, particularly the compressor and TXV
Titave, Uttam VasantKalsule, ShrikantNaidu, Sudhakara
Compressor durability is a critical factor for ensuring the long-term reliability of Mobile Air Conditioning (MAC) systems in passenger vehicles. This study presents a software based strategy for enhancing compressor life using Smart Fully Automatic Temperature Control (FATC), requiring no additional hardware. The proposed approach leverages existing inputs from the FATC and Engine Management System (EMS) to intelligently manage compressor operation, with a focus on addressing challenges related to prolonged non-usage. In extended inactivity scenarios such as during cold weather, vehicle exportation, storage, or breakdowns, lubrication oil tends to settle in the compressor sump, leaving internal parts dry. Sudden reactivation at high engine speeds under such conditions can cause increased friction, wear and even compressor seizure. To mitigate this, an intelligent reactivation protocol has been developed and integrated into the Climate Control Module (CCM). This protocol continuously
Deshmukh, GaneshChotaliya, BhavyKulkarni, ShridharKHAIRE, DATTATRAYJaybhay, SambhajiJoshi, GauravShah, Geet
Single-zone cabin climate control systems have been standard for decades in passenger cars. Looking at the technology trend, which is transitioning from single-zone to multi-zone automatic control systems, it is now possible to provide zonal comfort tailored to the individual requirements of each passenger. In current single-zone climate control systems, maintaining the cabin temperature as stated by the passenger has been straightforward and can be achieved with slight calibration efforts using the present set of parameters and sensors until now. In this work, a multi-zone climate system highlighting the importance of individual calibration parameters in improving cabin comfort when transitioning from a single-zone to a multi-zone climate control system is proposed. As multi-zone climate systems are based on passenger set temperature requests for individual zonal comfort, appropriate controller fine-tuning is challenging when an input is taken from various sensed parameters, including
Varma, MohitSwarnkar, Sumit KumarBHOSALE, KRISHNAPatil, PrashantSardesai, Suresh
Air filters are critical to vehicle Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, ensuring cabin air quality by trapping dust particles that accumulate over time. However, conventional clogging diagnostics—such as physics-based simulations, empirical models or manual inspection—are often too complex or impractical for in-vehicle deployment. To address this, we present a simple and practical diagnostic approach for real-time detection of cabin filter clogging by continuously monitoring the pressure drop across the filter–evaporator assembly at five blower speed settings. Baseline pressure drop values were established for a clean filter in a production-spec Passenger car and the clogged filter threshold was defined by a 10% reduction in airflow. This corresponded to calibrated pressure drop values of 83, 108, 169, 212 and 256 Pa for blower speeds 1 to 5, respectively. These thresholds were programmed into the vehicle’s climate control ECU. During operation, when the measured
Raj, RohitMohite, YashwantNaik, NiranjanGhate, Pravin
In automotive systems, efficient thermal management is essential for refining vehicle performance, enhancing passenger comfort, and reducing MAC Power Consumption. The performance of an air conditioning system is linked to the performance of its condenser, which in turn depends on critical parameters such as the opening area, radiator fan ability and shroud design sealing. The opening area decides the airflow rate through the condenser, directly affecting the heat exchange efficiency. A larger opening area typically allows for greater airflow, enhancing the condenser's ability to dissipate heat. The shroud, which guides the airflow through the condenser, plays a vital role in minimizing warm air recirculation. An optimally designed shroud can significantly improve the condenser's thermal performance by directing the airflow more effectively. Higher fan capacity can increase the airflow through the condenser, improving heat transfer rates. However, it is essential to balance fan
Nayak, Akashlingampelly, RajaprasadNeupane, ManojMittal, SachinKumar, MukeshUmbarkar, Shriganesh
In Automobile AC system, HVAC is one of major component as it controls the air flow and air distribution based on cabin requirement. HVAC kinematics mechanism is used for controlling the air flow based on passenger requirement inside the cabin. The air flow movement inside HVAC has a severe impact on servo motor/cable torque which is controlling the mechanism. Simulation driven design method is widely used in world due to highly competitive automotive industry. Launching the product at the market within short span of time, with good quality and less cost is more challenging. Hence CAE/MBD based approach is more significant as it will reduce number of prototypes as well as the cost of testing. The objective of the analysis is to predict the HVAC servomotor torque required to operate the HAVC linkages under operating conditions. The air pressure load will have significant impact on damper face which will cause torque at CAM as well as servo lever center. The torque values at servo lever
Parayil, Paulson
The study emphasizes on detection of different faults and refrigerant leakage as well as performance investigation of automobile air conditioning system for an electric vehicle by varying various operating conditions. A refrigerant leak in an EV isn't just an inconvenience; it's a potential threat to vehicle range and usability, lifespan and health of the expensive battery pack, overall vehicle performance, passenger safety and comfort, component longevity (motor, power electronics), environmental responsibility. Due to the refrigerant leakage, the cooling system performance degrades, and components tend to fail. Because of that this study is focusing on deriving an algorithm to have an early detection of fault and leakage in the vehicle. The performance of the system is predicted for actual conditions of operation encountered by the automobile air conditioning system. The objective of the present work includes predicting the causes and effects of refrigerant leakage in AC system of
Bezbaruah, PujaYadav, AnkitPilakkattu, Deepak
This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the methodology employed in leveraging CFD for optimizing HVAC kinematics, focusing on reducing the operating torque by improvising the flap geometry. The aim here is to utilize the CFD simulation in order to predict the torque generated on the actuator motor connected to the flap when the flap is placed in high speed airflow and based on this value work out an optimized geometry of the flap, since its geometry plays a significant role when it comes to determining the torque values. Different flap geometry imparts different torque on motor. This torque is generated because of the force acting on the flap which is acting as a buffer in the path of airflow. The torque generated should be less than the stall torque of the actuator motor in order for smooth performance/movement of the flap. Initial geometry of the flap generated a torque of around 82.5 Ncm which was much higher than the recommendation limit. So in order to bring these torque
Madaan, AshishKumar, RaviBehera, SureshChauhan, Arpit
The Internal Heat Exchanger (IHX) is an important component in modern car air conditioning (AC) systems, particularly in AC lines. It increases cooling efficiency by transferring heat from the high-pressure liquid refrigerant to the low-pressure vapor. By using this technology, refrigerant sub-cooling and superheating improve, resulting in higher cooling performance, lower energy usage, and less strain on the compressor. It improves vehicle fuel economy and a longer lifespan of AC components. Also, IHX prevents liquid refrigerant from entering the compressor, reducing the danger of damage and increasing system reliability. This optimization helps to maintain consistent refrigerant flow, reduces energy consumption, and improves the overall Coefficient of Performance (COP). The implementation of an IHX technology in AC lines results in more compact, streamlined system designs, which allow for better temperature management, faster response times, and lower cooling loads. An IHX can boost
Dudeja, KailashSingh, Saniya
CAE (Computer Aided Engineering) optimization plays a pivotal role in various industries to gain a competitive edge. CAE optimization is essential in several industries, such as automotive, aerospace and consumer electronics, etc., concentrating on enhancing component structural design. The process helps in addressing complex design challenges, including weight reduction, material usage efficiency and operational effectiveness. This paper presents applications for an integrated form shape, size and topology optimization approach of structural systems by using CAE tools. For the present study, CAD (Computer Aided Design) was prepared using CATIA V5 followed by meshing in Hyper-mesh 2022.3 version software. Optistruct was used as a solver tool. Modal analysis was performed to extract the natural frequencies of vibration and respective mode shapes. According to the results of the frequency response function study performed on the automobile air conditioning condenser, based on low-stress
Mehra, AkankshaParayil, Paulson
Cabin air quality plays a crucial role in ensuring passenger comfort, health and driving experience. There have been growing concerns over poor cabin air quality resulting from multiple factors, including infiltration of external pollutants such as particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, emissions from vehicle interior materials, microbial contamination and inadequate ventilation. Therefore, maintaining optimal air quality inside vehicle cabin has become a critical aspect of vehicle climate control systems. Additionally, high humidity levels inside the cabin contribute to mold growth and fogging of windows, further compromising both air quality and visibility. This review explores such factors contributing to poor cabin air quality, where the severity of these issues ranges from mild discomfort and allergic reactions to long-term respiratory ailments. To mitigate these challenges, automotive manufacturers and researchers have implemented various air purification and filtration
Sharma, Shrutika
This study demonstrates the application of the T-Matrix, a Total Quality Management (TQM) tool to improve thermal comfort in automotive climate control systems. Focusing on the commonly reported customer issue of insufficient cabin cooling, particularly relevant in hot and congested Indian driving conditions, the research systematically investigates 36 failure modes identified across the product lifecycle, from early design through production and post-sale customer usage. Root causes are first categorized using an Ishikawa diagram and then mapped using the T-Matrix across three critical stages: problem creation, expected detection, and actual detection. This integrated approach reveals process blind spots where existing validation and inspection systems fail to catch known risks, particularly in rear-seat airflow performance and component variability from suppliers. By applying this TQM methodology, the study identifies targeted improvement actions such as improved thermal targets
Jaiswara, PrashantKulkarni, ShridharDeshmukh, GaneshNayakawadi, UttamJoshi, GauravShah, GeetJaybhay, Sambhaji
Noise generated by a vehicle’s HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system can significantly affect passenger comfort and the overall driving experience. One of the main causes of this noise is resonance, which happens when the operating speed of rotating parts, such as fans or compressors, matches the natural frequency of the ducts or housing. This leads to unwanted noise inside the cabin. A Campbell diagram provides a systematic approach to identifying and analyzing resonance issues. By plotting natural frequencies of system components against their operating speeds, Test engineers can determine the specific points where resonance occurs. Once these points are known, design changes can be made to avoid them—for example, adjusting the blower speed, modifying duct stiffness, or adding damping materials such as foam. In our study, resonance was observed in the HVAC duct at a specific blower speed on the Campbell diagram. To address this, we opted to optimize the duct design
Trivedi, ArpitaKumar, RaviMadaan, AshishShrivastava, Pawan
The Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry is rapidly growing, particularly in the automotive sector since they are integral to maintaining passenger comfort in vehicles by regulating the internal temperature. This growth has led to an increased demand for highly optimized and efficient HVAC systems for a uniform temperature distribution in vehicles. However, achieving this in the cabin remains a challenge due to the complex airflow dynamics within the HVAC system. A critical factor in ensuring uniform temperature distribution for year-round performance is maintaining temperature linearity within specified limits, which is essential for user comfort. Temperature linearity refers to the temperature differential between duct outlets when air is distributed through multiple vents, such as those aimed at the face and feet. This differential typically ranges from 15°C to 20°C, varying based on customer and manufacturer specifications. The flap angle significantly
Madaan, AshishKumar, RaviDangwal, Raj
Widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is hindered by "range anxiety," a major concern for consumers. A primary contributor to this issue is the significant energy consumption of the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, which can account for 15-40% of a vehicle's total energy demand, directly reducing its practical driving range. Using the 1D simulation tool GT-SUITE, this research provides a comparative analysis of two distinct HVAC architectures: a conventional air-cooled condenser (ACC) and a proposed liquid-cooled condenser (LCC). The performance of both hardware systems was evaluated under two control strategies a Proportional-Integral (PI) controller and a basic On/Off controller—to identify the optimal configuration. The results advocate that optimizing the system's architecture and control logic yields a substantial improvement in the Coefficient of Performance (COP) ranging from 47% to 128% compared to the baseline ACC/On-Off configuration, with a
T R, RakshithYadav, Ankit
Items per page:
1 – 50 of 7207