阅读说明：本技术 Hvac模块 (HVAC module ) 是由 A.埃格布罗坦 G.麦克兰 C.古里安 J.汤普森 S.马歇尔 D.帕里克 J.克勒彻 于 2019-03-18 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种用于车辆的HVAC模块包括壳体。轴端部连接至轴,以连接至互补致动器,用于调节轴的旋转位置,从而调节气流控制门在壳体中的位置。轴端部限定致动轴线。与轴端部同轴的外螺纹凸台限定在壳体的外表面上。旋转止动柱从壳体突出以接合由互补致动器限定的卡子。壳体通过与外螺纹凸台螺纹接合并且通过旋转止动柱和卡子之间的接合来保持互补致动器,以选择性地防止互补致动器的外壳围绕致动轴线旋转。互补致动器可互换地是电动旋转致动器和手动可操作旋转致动器。(An HVAC module for a vehicle includes a housing. The shaft end is connected to the shaft for connection to a complementary actuator for adjusting the rotational position of the shaft and thereby the position of the airflow control door in the housing. The shaft end defines an actuation axis. An externally threaded boss coaxial with the shaft end is defined on the outer surface of the housing. A rotational stop post projects from the housing to engage a catch defined by a complementary actuator. The housing retains the complementary actuator by threaded engagement with the externally threaded boss and by engagement between the rotational stop post and the catch to selectively prevent rotation of the housing of the complementary actuator about the actuation axis. The complementary actuators are interchangeably an electrically and manually operable rotary actuator.)

1. An HVAC module for a vehicle, comprising:

a housing;

a shaft end connected to the shaft for connection to a complementary actuator for adjusting the rotational position of the shaft to adjust the position of the airflow control door in the housing, the shaft end defining an actuation axis;

an external thread boss defined on an outer surface of the housing, the external thread boss being coaxial with the shaft end; and

a rotation stop post projecting from the housing to engage a catch defined by the complementary actuator;

wherein the housing retains the complementary actuator by threaded engagement with the externally threaded boss and by engagement between the rotation stop post and the catch to selectively prevent rotation of the housing of the complementary actuator about the actuation axis, wherein the complementary actuator is interchangeably an electrically and manually operable rotary actuator.

2. The HVAC module of claim 1, wherein:

the shaft end includes a first torque coupling member rotatably located at a wall of the housing;

the first torque coupling member is rotatable about an actuation axis from a first angular position to a second angular position; and is

The complementary actuator includes a second torque coupling member to couple with the first torque coupling member for rotation therewith.

3. The HVAC module of claim 2, wherein:

the first torque coupling member is a hub attached to a shaft for rotation therewith;

the hub includes a boss projecting through a wall of the housing, the boss defining a polygonal frustum about the actuation axis; and is

The second torque coupling member includes a female portion complementary to the male portion to receive the male portion and rotate therewith.

4. The HVAC module of claim 3, wherein the polygonal frustum is keyed to engage the second torque coupling member at a predetermined position of the airflow control door relative to the actuator angle of the complementary actuator, and prevent engagement of the second torque coupling member when the misaligned position of the airflow control door relative to the actuator angle is not the predetermined position of the airflow control door relative to the actuator angle of the complementary actuator.

5. The HVAC module of claim 3, wherein:

the shaft end includes a first radial stop vane and a second radial stop vane;

the housing defines a first stop tab projecting from the externally threaded boss toward the actuation axis;

the housing defines a second stop tab projecting from the externally threaded boss toward the actuation axis;

a first radial stop vane abuts the first stop tab when the first torque coupling member is in the first angular position, thereby preventing the shaft end from rotating in the first rotational direction beyond the first angular position; and is

The second radial stop lobe abuts the second stop tab when the first torque coupling member is in the second angular position, thereby preventing the shaft end from rotating beyond the second angular position in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.

6. The HVAC module of claim 1, further comprising:

a first boss defined on an outer surface of the housing; and

a second boss defined on an outer surface of the housing, wherein:

the first boss defines a first boss bore defining a first boss axis at a first center of the first boss bore;

the first boss bore for threadably receiving a threaded fastener;

the second boss defines a second boss bore defining a second boss axis at a second center of the second boss bore;

a second center of the second boss hole is spaced apart from a first center of the first boss hole;

the second boss bore for threadably receiving a threaded fastener; and is

The complementary actuator is one of:

the electric rotary actuator having a first flange with a first flange aperture defined therein, the first flange aperture being coaxial with the first boss aperture through which the threaded fastener is installed into the first boss aperture when the complementary actuator is in a first installed position on the housing; and

the manually operable rotary actuator has a second flange having a second flange aperture defined therein that is coaxial with the second boss aperture through which the threaded fastener is installed into the second boss aperture when the complementary actuator is in a second installed position on the housing.

7. The HVAC module of claim 1, wherein the manually-operable rotary actuator is selected from the group consisting of a pull-type manually-operable rotary actuator and a push-pull type manually-operable rotary actuator.

8. An HVAC system for a vehicle, comprising:

an HVAC module comprising:

a housing for containing the heater core and guiding an air flow in an interior of the housing;

an airflow control door having a shaft for adjusting a position of the airflow control door in the housing;

a shaft end connected to the shaft, the shaft end defining an actuation axis;

an external thread boss defined on an outer surface of the housing, the external thread boss being coaxial with the shaft end; and

a rotation stop post protruding from the housing; and

a complementary actuator for adjusting the rotational position of the shaft and thereby the position of the airflow control door in the housing, the complementary actuator having a catch defined thereon that is engaged by the rotational stop post;

wherein the housing retains the complementary actuator by threaded engagement with the externally threaded boss and by engagement between the rotation stop post and the catch to selectively prevent rotation of the complementary actuator about the actuation axis.

9. The HVAC system of claim 8, wherein the complementary actuator is selected from the group consisting of an electrically powered rotary actuator and a manually operable rotary actuator.

10. The HVAC system of claim 8, wherein:

the shaft end includes a first torque coupling member rotatably located at a wall of the housing;

the first torque coupling member is rotatable about an actuation axis from a first angular position to a second angular position; and is

The complementary actuator includes a second torque coupling member to couple with the first torque coupling member for rotation therewith.

11. The HVAC system of claim 10, wherein:

the first torque coupling member is a hub attached to a shaft for rotation therewith;

the hub includes a boss projecting through a wall of the housing, the boss defining a polygonal frustum about the actuation axis; and is

The second torque coupling member includes a female portion complementary to the male portion to receive the male portion and rotate therewith.

12. The HVAC system of claim 11, wherein the polygonal frustum is keyed to engage the second torque coupling member at a predetermined position of the airflow control door relative to the actuator angle of the complementary actuator, and prevent engagement of the second torque coupling member when the misaligned position of the airflow control door relative to the actuator angle is not the predetermined position of the airflow control door relative to the actuator angle of the complementary actuator.

13. The HVAC system of claim 11, wherein:

the shaft end includes a first radial stop vane and a second radial stop vane;

the housing defines a first stop tab projecting from the externally threaded boss toward the actuation axis;

the housing defines a second stop tab projecting from the externally threaded boss toward the actuation axis;

a first radial stop vane abuts the first stop tab when the first torque coupling member is in the first angular position, thereby preventing the shaft end from rotating in the first rotational direction beyond the first angular position; and is

The second radial stop lobe abuts the second stop tab when the first torque coupling member is in the second angular position, thereby preventing the shaft end from rotating beyond the second angular position in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.

14. The HVAC system of claim 8, further comprising:

a first boss defined on an outer surface of the housing;

a first boss bore defined by the first boss, the first boss bore for threadedly receiving a threaded fastener;

a first boss axis located at a first center of the first boss hole;

a second boss defined on an outer surface of the housing;

a second boss bore defined by the second boss, the second boss bore for threadedly receiving a threaded fastener;

a second boss axis located at a second center of the second boss hole, the second center of the second boss hole spaced apart from the first center of the first boss hole; and

the complementary actuator, wherein the complementary actuator is one of:

an electric rotary actuator having a first flange with a first flange aperture defined therein, the first flange aperture coaxial with the first boss aperture through which a threaded fastener is installed into the first boss aperture when the complementary actuator is in a first installed position on the housing; and

a manually operable rotary actuator having a second flange with a second flange aperture defined therein, the second flange aperture being coaxial with the second boss aperture through which the threaded fastener is installed into the second boss aperture when the complementary actuator is in a second installed position on the housing.

15. The HVAC system of claim 9, wherein the manually-operable rotary actuator is selected from the group consisting of a pull-type manually-operable rotary actuator and a push-pull type manually-operable rotary actuator.

Background

HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) systems are used, for example, for climate control of the interior cabin region of a motor vehicle. The HVAC system may be configured with an HVAC unit having a heat exchanger disposed in a housing. The HVAC distribution system may be operatively connected to an HVAC unit. The HVAC system may have one or more airflow paths to allow air to flow, for example, to, from, and/or within the HVAC unit and the HVAC distribution system. Doors may be associated with the airflow path to control the amount of air flowing to, through, and/or from the HVAC unit and/or HVAC distribution system.

Disclosure of Invention

An HVAC module for a vehicle includes a housing. The shaft end is connected to the shaft for connection to a complementary actuator for adjusting the rotational position of the shaft and thereby the position of the airflow control door in the housing. The shaft end defines an actuation axis. An externally threaded boss coaxial with the shaft end is defined on the outer surface of the housing. A rotational stop post projects from the housing to engage a catch defined by a complementary actuator. The housing retains the complementary actuator by threaded engagement with the externally threaded boss and by engagement between the rotational stop post and the catch to selectively prevent rotation of the housing of the complementary actuator about the actuation axis. The complementary actuators are interchangeably an electrically and manually operable rotary actuator.

Introduction to

A first aspect disclosed herein is an HVAC module for a vehicle, comprising: a housing; a shaft end connected to the shaft for connection to a complementary actuator for adjusting the rotational position of the shaft to adjust the position of the airflow control door in the housing, the shaft end defining an actuation axis; an external thread boss defined on an outer surface of the housing, the external thread boss being coaxial with the shaft end; and a rotation stop post projecting from the housing to engage a catch defined by the complementary actuator; wherein the housing retains the complementary actuator by threaded engagement with the externally threaded boss and by engagement between the rotation stop post and the catch to selectively prevent rotation of the housing of the complementary actuator about the actuation axis, wherein the complementary actuator is interchangeably an electrically and manually operable rotary actuator.

In a first example of this first aspect, the shaft end includes a first torque coupling member rotatably located at a wall of the housing; the first torque coupling member is rotatable about the actuation axis from a first angular position to a second angular position; and the complementary actuator includes a second torque coupling member to couple with the first torque coupling member for rotation therewith.

In another example of the first aspect, the first torque coupling member is a hub attached to the shaft for rotation therewith; the hub includes a boss projecting through a wall of the housing, the boss defining a polygonal frustum about the actuation axis; and the second torque coupling member includes a female portion complementary to the male portion to receive the male portion and rotate therewith.

In another example of the first aspect, the polygonal frustum is keyed to engage the second torque coupling member at a predetermined position of the airflow control gate relative to an actuator angle of the complementary actuator, and prevent engagement of the second torque coupling member when a misaligned position of the airflow control gate relative to the actuator angle is not the predetermined position of the airflow control gate relative to the actuator angle of the complementary actuator.

In another example of the first aspect, the shaft end includes a first radial stop vane and a second radial stop vane; the housing defines a first stop tab projecting from the externally threaded boss toward the actuation axis; the housing defines a second stop tab projecting from the externally threaded boss toward the actuation axis; when the first torque coupling member is in the first angular position, the first radial stop vane abuts the first stop tab, thereby preventing the shaft end from rotating in the first rotational direction beyond the first angular position; and when the first torque coupling member is in the second angular position, the second radial stop lobe abuts the second stop tab, thereby preventing the shaft end from rotating beyond the second angular position in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.

In a second example of the first aspect, the HVAC module further comprises: a first boss defined on an outer surface of the housing; and a second boss defined on an outer surface of the housing, wherein: the first boss defines a first boss bore defining a first boss axis at a first center of the first boss bore; the first boss bore for threadedly receiving a threaded fastener; the second boss defines a second boss bore defining a second boss axis at a second center of the second boss bore; the second center of the second boss hole is spaced apart from the first center of the first boss hole; the second boss bore for threadably receiving a threaded fastener; and the complementary actuator is one of: an electric rotary actuator having a first flange with a first flange aperture defined therein, the first flange aperture coaxial with the first boss aperture through which a threaded fastener is installed into the first boss aperture when the complementary actuator is in a first installed position on the housing; and a manually operable rotary actuator having a second flange with a second flange aperture defined therein, the second flange aperture being coaxial with the second boss aperture through which the threaded fastener is installed into the second boss aperture when the complementary actuator is in a second installed position on the housing.

In a third example of this first aspect, the manually operable rotary actuator is selected from the group consisting of a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator and a push-pull type manually operable rotary actuator.

It should be understood that any of the features of the HVAC module for a vehicle disclosed herein may be combined together in any desired manner and/or configuration.

A second aspect disclosed herein is an HVAC system for a vehicle, comprising: an HVAC module comprising: a housing for containing the heater core and guiding an air flow in an interior of the housing; an airflow control door having a shaft for adjusting a position of the airflow control door in the housing; a shaft end connected to the shaft, the shaft end defining an actuation axis; an external thread boss defined on an outer surface of the housing, the external thread boss being coaxial with the shaft end; and a rotation stop post protruding from the housing; and a complementary actuator for adjusting the rotational position of the shaft, thereby adjusting the position of the airflow control door in the housing, the complementary actuator having a catch defined thereon that is engaged by the rotational stop post; wherein the housing retains the complementary actuator by threaded engagement with the externally threaded boss and by engagement between the rotation stop post and the catch to selectively prevent rotation of the complementary actuator about the actuation axis.

In a first example of this second aspect, the complementary actuator is selected from the group consisting of an electrically powered rotary actuator and a manually operable rotary actuator.

In a second example of this second aspect, the complementary actuators are interchangeably an electrically and manually operable rotary actuator.

In a third example of this second aspect, the shaft end includes a first torque coupling member rotatably located at a wall of the housing; the first torque coupling member is rotatable about the actuation axis from a first angular position to a second angular position; and the complementary actuator includes a second torque coupling member to couple with the first torque coupling member for rotation therewith.

In another example of the third example of the second aspect, the first torque coupling member is a hub attached to the shaft for rotation therewith; the hub includes a boss projecting through a wall of the housing, the boss defining a polygonal frustum about the actuation axis; and the second torque coupling member includes a female portion complementary to the male portion to receive the male portion and rotate therewith.

In another example of the third example of the second aspect, the polygonal frustum is keyed to engage the second torque coupling member at a predetermined position of the airflow control gate relative to an actuator angle of the complementary actuator, and prevent engagement of the second torque coupling member when a misaligned position of the airflow control gate relative to the actuator angle is not the predetermined position of the airflow control gate relative to the actuator angle of the complementary actuator.

In another example of the third example of the second aspect: the shaft end includes a first radial stop vane and a second radial stop vane; the housing defines a first stop tab projecting from the externally threaded boss toward the actuation axis; the housing defines a second stop tab projecting from the externally threaded boss toward the actuation axis; when the first torque coupling member is in the first angular position, the first radial stop vane abuts the first stop tab, thereby preventing the shaft end from rotating in the first rotational direction beyond the first angular position; and when the first torque coupling member is in the second angular position, the second radial stop lobe abuts the second stop tab, thereby preventing the shaft end from rotating beyond the second angular position in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.

In a fourth example of the second aspect, the HVAC system further comprises: a first boss defined on an outer surface of the housing; a first boss bore defined by the first boss, the first boss bore for threadedly receiving a threaded fastener; a first boss axis located at a first center of the first boss hole; a second boss defined on an outer surface of the housing; a second boss bore defined by the second boss, the second boss bore for threadedly receiving a threaded fastener; a second boss axis located at a second center of the second boss hole, the second center of the second boss hole spaced apart from the first center of the first boss hole; and a complementary actuator, wherein the complementary actuator is one of: an electric rotary actuator having a first flange with a first flange aperture defined therein, the first flange aperture coaxial with the first boss aperture through which a threaded fastener is installed into the first boss aperture when the complementary actuator is in a first installed position on the housing; and a manually operable rotary actuator having a second flange with a second flange aperture defined therein, the second flange aperture being coaxial with the second boss aperture through which the threaded fastener is installed into the second boss aperture when the complementary actuator is in a second installed position on the housing.

In another example of the first example of this second aspect, the manually operable rotary actuator is selected from the group consisting of a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator and a push-pull type manually operable rotary actuator.

In another example of the second example of this second aspect, the manually operable rotary actuator is selected from the group consisting of a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator and a push-pull type manually operable rotary actuator.

It should be appreciated that any of the features of the HVAC system for a vehicle disclosed herein may be combined together in any desired manner and/or configuration.

A third aspect disclosed herein is an HVAC module for a vehicle, comprising: a housing; a shaft end connected to the shaft for connection to a complementary actuator for adjusting the rotational position of the shaft to adjust the position of the airflow control door in the housing, the shaft end defining an actuation axis; an external thread boss defined on an outer surface of the housing, the external thread boss being coaxial with the shaft end; and a rotation stop post projecting from the housing to engage a catch defined by the complementary actuator; wherein the housing retains the complementary actuator by threaded engagement with the externally threaded boss and by engagement between the rotation stop post and the catch to selectively prevent rotation of the housing of the complementary actuator about the actuation axis, wherein the complementary actuator is interchangeably an electric rotary actuator and a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator.

In a first example of this third aspect, the shaft end includes a first torque coupling member rotatably located at a wall of the housing; the first torque coupling member is rotatable about the actuation axis from a first angular position to a second angular position; and the complementary actuator includes a second torque coupling member to couple with the first torque coupling member for rotation therewith.

In another example of the first example of the third aspect, the first torque coupling member is a hub attached to the shaft for rotation therewith; the hub includes a boss projecting through a wall of the housing, the boss defining a polygonal frustum about the actuation axis; and the second torque coupling member includes a female portion complementary to the male portion to receive the male portion and rotate therewith.

In another example of the first example of the third aspect, the polygonal frustum is keyed to engage the second torque coupling member at a predetermined position of the airflow control gate relative to an actuator angle of the complementary actuator, and to prevent engagement of the second torque coupling member when a misaligned position of the airflow control gate relative to the actuator angle is not the predetermined position of the airflow control gate relative to the actuator angle of the complementary actuator.

In another example of the first example of the third aspect, the shaft end includes a first radial stop vane and a second radial stop vane; the housing defines a first stop tab projecting from the externally threaded boss toward the actuation axis; the housing defines a second stop tab projecting from the externally threaded boss toward the actuation axis; when the first torque coupling member is in the first angular position, the first radial stop vane abuts the first stop tab, thereby preventing the shaft end from rotating in the first rotational direction beyond the first angular position; and when the first torque coupling member is in the second angular position, the second radial stop lobe abuts the second stop tab, thereby preventing the shaft end from rotating beyond the second angular position in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.

In a second example of this third aspect, the HVAC module further comprises: a first boss defined on an outer surface of the housing; and a second boss defined on an outer surface of the housing, wherein: the first boss defines a first boss bore defining a first boss axis at a first center of the first boss bore; the first boss bore for threadedly receiving a threaded fastener; the second boss defines a second boss bore defining a second boss axis at a second center of the second boss bore; the second center of the second boss hole is spaced apart from the first center of the first boss hole; the second boss bore for threadably receiving a threaded fastener; and the complementary actuator is one of: an electric rotary actuator having a first flange with a first flange aperture defined therein, the first flange aperture coaxial with the first boss aperture through which a threaded fastener is installed into the first boss aperture when the complementary actuator is in a first installed position on the housing; and a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator having a second flange with a second flange bore defined therein that is coaxial with the second boss bore through which the threaded fastener is installed when the complementary actuator is in a second installed position on the housing.

It should be understood that any of the features of the HVAC module for a vehicle disclosed herein may be combined together in any desired manner and/or configuration.

A fourth aspect disclosed herein is an HVAC system for a vehicle, the system comprising: an HVAC module comprising: a housing for containing the heater core and guiding an air flow in an interior of the housing; an airflow control door having a shaft for adjusting a position of the airflow control door in the housing; a shaft end connected to the shaft, the shaft end defining an actuation axis; an external thread boss defined on an outer surface of the housing, the external thread boss being coaxial with the shaft end; and a rotation stop post protruding from the housing; and a complementary actuator for adjusting the rotational position of the shaft, thereby adjusting the position of the airflow control door in the housing, the complementary actuator having a catch defined thereon that is engaged by the rotational stop post; wherein the housing retains the complementary actuator by threaded engagement with the externally threaded boss and by engagement between the rotation stop post and the catch to selectively prevent rotation of the complementary actuator about the actuation axis.

In a first example of this fourth aspect, the complementary actuator is selected from the group consisting of an electric rotary actuator and a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator.

In a second example of this fourth aspect, the complementary actuators are interchangeably an electric rotary actuator and a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator.

In a third example of this fourth aspect, the shaft end includes a first torque coupling member rotatably located at a wall of the housing; the first torque coupling member is rotatable about the actuation axis from a first angular position to a second angular position; and the complementary actuator includes a second torque coupling member to couple with the first torque coupling member for rotation therewith.

In another example of the second example of the fourth aspect, the first torque coupling member is a hub attached to the shaft for rotation therewith; the hub includes a boss projecting through a wall of the housing, the boss defining a polygonal frustum about the actuation axis; and the second torque coupling member includes a female portion complementary to the male portion to receive the male portion and rotate therewith.

In another example of the third example of the fourth aspect, the polygonal frustum is keyed to engage the second torque coupling member at a predetermined position of the airflow control gate relative to an actuator angle of the complementary actuator, and prevent engagement of the second torque coupling member when a misaligned position of the airflow control gate relative to the actuator angle is not the predetermined position of the airflow control gate relative to the actuator angle of the complementary actuator.

In another example of the third example of the fourth aspect: the shaft end includes a first radial stop vane and a second radial stop vane; the housing defines a first stop tab projecting from the externally threaded boss toward the actuation axis; the housing defines a second stop tab projecting from the externally threaded boss toward the actuation axis; when the first torque coupling member is in the first angular position, the first radial stop vane abuts the first stop tab, thereby preventing the shaft end from rotating in the first rotational direction beyond the first angular position; and when the first torque coupling member is in the second angular position, the second radial stop lobe abuts the second stop tab, thereby preventing the shaft end from rotating beyond the second angular position in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.

In a fourth example of the fourth aspect, the HVAC system further comprises: a first boss defined on an outer surface of the housing; a first boss bore defined by the first boss, the first boss bore for threadedly receiving a threaded fastener; a first boss axis located at a first center of the first boss hole; a second boss defined on an outer surface of the housing; a second boss bore defined by the second boss, the second boss bore for threadedly receiving a threaded fastener; a second boss axis located at a second center of the second boss hole, the second center of the second boss hole spaced apart from the first center of the first boss hole; and a complementary actuator, wherein the complementary actuator is one of: an electric rotary actuator having a first flange with a first flange aperture defined therein, the first flange aperture coaxial with the first boss aperture through which a threaded fastener is installed into the first boss aperture when the complementary actuator is in a first installed position on the housing; and a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator having a second flange with a second flange bore defined therein that is coaxial with the second boss bore through which the threaded fastener is installed when the complementary actuator is in a second installed position on the housing.

It should be appreciated that any of the features of the HVAC system for a vehicle disclosed herein may be combined together in any desired manner and/or configuration.

Further, it should be appreciated that any aspect of the HVAC module for the vehicle and/or any combination of features of any aspect of the HVAC system for the vehicle may be used and/or combined together in any desired manner and/or may be used and/or combined with any of the examples disclosed herein.

Drawings

Features of examples of the present disclosure will become apparent by reference to the following detailed description and drawings, in which like reference numerals correspond to identical or similar, but perhaps not identical, components. For the sake of brevity, reference numerals or features having a previously described function may or may not be described in connection with other drawings in which they appear.

FIG. 1 is a coordinate system diagram representing an example of a vehicle space;

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of an example of an HVAC module housing depicting an externally threaded boss and a rotation stop post according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of an example of an electric rotary actuator mounted on the example of the HVAC module housing shown in FIG. 2 according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an example of the electric rotary actuator shown in FIG. 3 according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of an example of a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator mounted on the example of the HVAC module housing shown in FIG. 2 according to the present disclosure; and

fig. 6 is a front perspective view of an example of the pull-type manually operable rotary actuator shown in fig. 5 according to the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

The HVAC module 14 of the present disclosure includes a housing 12, a blower (not shown), and a heater core (not shown). In some examples, the HVAC module 14 may also include an evaporator (not shown). The evaporator provides cold air and the heater core provides hot air. These components are typical of the HVAC module 14 and operate similarly to components in a conventional HVAC system. Therefore, the operation of the blower, the evaporator and the heater core will not be described in further detail. Any reference in the specification to "air volume" or "air flow" does not specifically refer to cold air, hot air, or mixed air, but is a general term used merely for simplicity.

As used herein, "left" refers to the negative "Y" direction as shown in fig. 1. FIG. 1 depicts a coordinate System similar to the coordinate System depicted in FIG. 1 of SAEJ182, "Motor Vehicle Fiduct Marks and Three-dimensional Reference System," reiterated at 4 months 2005. Using the same coordinate system, "right" represents the positive "Y" direction as shown in fig. 1. "front" means the negative "X" direction as shown in FIG. 1; "rear" or "rearward" refers to the positive "X" direction as shown in FIG. 1. As used herein, "after" means "after …". "upper", "upper" and similar terms refer to the positive "Z" direction as shown in FIG. 1; "lower", "lower" and similar terms refer to the negative "Z" direction as shown in FIG. 1.

Vehicles typically have a limited interior space. This space is allocated to the passengers and various systems in the vehicle. Space utilization efficiency is becoming increasingly important as the content is added to provide convenience and comfort to vehicle occupants.

There are currently several types of doors in HVAC modules for hybrid functions. The flag gate has a single blade that rotates about an axis at the blade edge. A butterfly door has two vanes that rotate about a common axis between the two vanes. The outer surface of the cylindrical door is in the shape of a slice of a hollow cylinder with two closed ends. The cylindrical door rotates about an axis at the center of the hollow cylinder.

Rotation of the door may be achieved by using an electric actuator or a manual actuator. In the manual actuator of the present disclosure, a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator or a push-type manually operable rotary actuator may be used. Fig. 5 and 6 partially illustrate an example of a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator 31 according to the present disclosure. The pull-type manually operable rotary actuator may be part of a control mechanism comprising, for example, a knob or slider provided on a control panel of the vehicle. The action of the knob or slider ultimately results in a corresponding adjustment of the door or valve in the HVAC module. The knob or slider is connected to a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator 31 by a dual control cable 32. In one example, turning the knob clockwise pulls the first cable 50 in the dual control cable 32, which is connected to the pulley 45 or lever in the pull-type manually operable rotary actuator 31. In the same example, turning the knob counterclockwise pulls the second cable 51 of the dual control cables 32, which is connected to the pulley 45 or lever in the pull-type manually operable rotary actuator 31, causing the pull-type manually operable rotary actuator 31 to rotate in an opposite direction compared to the direction in which pulling the first cable 50 turns the pull-type manually operable rotary actuator 31. It should be understood that the words "first" and "second" are used herein to distinguish the names of certain elements (e.g., "first cable, second cable"); thus, in this case, "first" and "second" have no temporal meaning. The pulley 45 or lever rotates a shaft, gear or cam connected through the end of the torque transfer shaft to adjust the shaft of the airflow control door or valve. The pull-type manually operable rotary actuator 31 may have a gear between the pulley or lever and the end of the torque transfer shaft.

The push-pull manually operable rotary actuator is similar to the pull-pull manually operable rotary actuator except that the dual control cable 32 is replaced by a single control cable connected to a pulley or lever in the push-pull manually operable rotary actuator such that the push-pull manually operable rotary actuator rotates in a first direction when the single control cable is pushed on the pulley or lever and in a second direction opposite the first direction when the single control cable is pulled on the pulley or lever. The single control cable may include a solid wire or stranded cable inner member movable inside the outer conduit.

In the electric mechanism of the present disclosure, an electric rotary actuator may be used instead of a manually operable rotary actuator. The electric rotary actuator is part of a control system comprising, for example, a knob or slider provided on a control panel of the vehicle, or an automatic climate control system. The action of the knob or slider will change the sensor output used to control the electric rotary actuator, ultimately resulting in a corresponding adjustment of the door or valve in the HVAC module. The knob or slider is connected to an electric rotary actuator by an electric wire. In an example, turning the knob clockwise turns an encoder that is monitored by the electronic controller. The electronic controller sends power through the conductive line to turn the electric rotary actuator in a first direction to a particular position. In the same example, turning the knob counterclockwise turns the encoder and ultimately the electric rotary actuator in a second direction (opposite the first direction) to a second position. An electric rotary actuator turns a shaft, gear or cam connected through the end of a torque transfer shaft to adjust the shaft of an air flow control door or valve. The electric rotary actuator may have a gear in a powertrain connected to the end of the torque transfer shaft. The powertrain is a plurality of gears and shafts that are meshingly connected to transmit torque.

In examples of the present disclosure, a single interface on the HVAC module housing allows the same HVAC module to be assembled with either an electrically powered rotary actuator or a manually operable rotary actuator. The interchangeable interface eliminates the need for special tools or complex inserts on the HVAC housing so that electronically controlled HVAC modules and manually controlled HVAC modules can be manufactured in a common packaging space.

Fig. 2 depicts an example of an HVAC module housing 12 having an externally threaded boss 22 and a rotation stop post 21 according to the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates an example of an electric rotary actuator 30 mounted on the example of the HVAC module housing 12 shown in FIG. 2 according to the present disclosure. Fig. 4 shows more details of an example of the electric rotary actuator 30 from fig. 3. Figure 5 is a rear perspective view of an example of a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator 31 mounted on the example of the HVAC module housing 12 shown in figure 2 in accordance with the present disclosure. Fig. 6 shows more details of an example of the pull-type manually operable rotary actuator 31 from fig. 5.

In examples of the present disclosure, a single "twist lock" interface using a large thread feature will axially retain the complementary actuator, and a second rotational retention feature (e.g., a rotational stop post) will engage a flexible catch on the complementary actuator. In some examples of the present disclosure, the complementary actuators are retained by molded features that allow for semi-permanent fastening without the need for additional fasteners (e.g., separate screws). Excess screws may optionally be installed. If the elements of the molded feature intended to serve as rotational retention features are damaged, the excess screws can save resources and reduce scrap in the manufacturing process by allowing the threaded fasteners to be used for anti-rotation. It should be appreciated that the large thread feature, as opposed to the excess screw, may include a screw thread or a cam lock interface. In addition, complementary actuator 20 may be fully installed by rotating housing 35 of complementary actuator 20 relative to housing 12 for a fraction of a revolution. For example, a quarter turn or an eighth turn of the housing 35 may be sufficient to mount a complementary actuator 20 on the housing 12 as disclosed herein.

As depicted together in fig. 2, 3 and 5, in an example of the present disclosure, an HVAC module 14 for a vehicle 16 includes a housing 12. The shaft end 18 is connected to a shaft (not shown) for connection to a complementary actuator 20 to adjust the rotational position of the shaft and thereby adjust the position of an airflow control door (not shown) in the housing 12. The airflow control door may be any suitable airflow control door, non-limiting examples being a flag door, a butterfly door, and a barrel door as described above. The shaft for adjusting the position of the airflow control door may have any suitable structure. For example, the shaft may be a single rod, such as a hinge pin; or the shaft may have separate upper and lower pins. The shaft may be a single component with the airflow control door (i.e., molded into the airflow door), or the airflow control door may have a separable component (e.g., the shaft may be pressed into the airflow control door). The airflow control door may have an elastic sealing member (not shown) provided at a periphery of the airflow control door.

In the disclosed example, the shaft end 18 defines an actuation axis 26. An externally threaded boss 22 is defined on an outer surface 28 of the housing 12. As used herein, "exterior surface 28 of housing 12" refers to a surface at the distal end of the volume substantially enclosed by housing 12. "substantially enclosed" is used herein because the housing 12 may have, for example, openings, vents, or ducts such that the housing 12 does not completely enclose the volume. As disclosed herein, the volume enclosed by the housing 12 is defined in part by an imaginary enclosure covering such an opening, wherein the imaginary enclosure has the smallest possible surface area. It should be understood that the outer surface 28 of the housing 12 may extend inside the vehicle 16, outside the vehicle 16, or both inside and outside the vehicle 16. As used herein, "interior of housing 12" refers to the volume substantially enclosed by housing 12.

In the disclosed example, the externally threaded boss 22 is coaxial with the shaft end 18. A rotation stop post 21 projects from the housing 12 to engage a catch 24 defined by the complementary actuator 20. The housing 12 retains the complementary actuator 20 by threaded engagement with the externally threaded boss 22 and by engagement between the rotation stop post 21 and the catch 24 to selectively prevent rotation of the housing 35 of the complementary actuator 20 about the actuation axis 26.

In one example, the rotation stop post 21 may include a ridge, fin, rib 29, or wall that protrudes from the outer surface 28 of the housing 12. The catch 24 may include a flexible tab 27 that may flex sufficiently to allow the housing 35 of the complementary actuator 20 to rotate in the mounting direction (e.g., clockwise as viewed in fig. 3) without significant additional mounting force, while the complementary actuator 20 is threadably mounted on the externally threaded boss 22 as the flexible tab 27 slides past the rotation stop post 21. When the complementary actuator 20 reaches the mounting position, the flexible tab 27 can return to the free position (i.e. unbent state) and abut against the rotation stop column 21; thereby preventing rotation of the complementary actuator 20 in a disassembly direction (e.g., counterclockwise as viewed in fig. 3) opposite the installation direction. When the flexible tab 27 snaps into the free position, the flexible tab 27 may cause an audible "click" sound and/or a perceptible pulse. This audible click or perceptible pulse may be an assembly aid to help determine that the complementary actuator 20 has been installed in the installed position. When the housing 35 of the complementary actuator 20 is rotated in the disassembly direction, disassembly of the complementary actuator 20 can be accomplished by bending the flexible tab 27 (e.g., with a tool) to allow the flexible tab 27 to slide past the rotational stop post 21. It should be understood that mounting in either a right or left hand rotation is contemplated herein.

In one example, the rotation stop post 21 may include a ridge, fin, rib 29, or wall that protrudes from the outer surface 28 of the housing 12. The catch 24 may include a slot 36 to receive a portion of the rotation stop post 21. The slot 36 may include a detent to hold the rotation stop post 21 in the installed position. The engagement of the pawl by the rotation stop post 21 may cause an audible "click" and/or a perceptible pulse. This audible click or perceptible pulse may be an assembly aid to help determine that the complementary actuator 20 has been installed in the installed position. Disassembly may be accomplished by overcoming the pawl holding torque and rotating the complementary actuator 20 in the disassembly direction. The pawl holding torque is greater than the torque that may be caused by vibrations in the maintenance/operation of the HVAC module 14 in the vehicle 16. It should be understood that mounting in either a right or left hand rotation is contemplated herein.

In the disclosed example, the complementary actuator 20 is interchangeably an electrically and manually operable rotary actuator 30, 31. In an example, the manually operable rotary actuator 31 may be selected from the group consisting of a push-pull manually operable rotary actuator and a pull-pull manually operable rotary actuator. In an example, the manually operable rotary actuator 31 may be a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator. In an example, the manually operable rotary actuator 31 may be a push-pull manually operable rotary actuator. Thus, in the examples of the present disclosure, as otherwise disclosed herein, the electrically-powered rotary actuator 30 and the manually-operable rotary actuator 31 are each interchangeably mountable on the same housing 12 connected to the same shaft end 18. Thus, manufacturing complexity is reduced and the need for special tools or complex inserts for the housing 12 is eliminated to facilitate the manufacture of electronically controlled HVAC modules and manually controlled HVAC modules in a common packaging space.

In some examples of the HVAC module 14 as disclosed herein, the shaft end 18 includes a first torque coupling member 40 rotatably located at the wall 25 of the housing 12. The first torque coupling member 40 is rotatable about the actuation axis 26 from a first angular position to a second angular position. In the example shown in fig. 2, the first torque coupling member 40 is shown in a first angular position. In the example shown in fig. 2, the first torque coupling member 40 is in the first angular position when the first torque coupling member 40 is rotated as far as possible in a counterclockwise direction (in the orientation shown in fig. 2) about the actuation axis 26. An example of a second angular position (not shown) would be the position of the first torque coupling member 40 after the first torque coupling member 40 has rotated as far as possible in a clockwise direction about the actuation axis 26. The complementary actuator 20 may include a second torque coupling member 41 to couple with the first torque coupling member 40 for rotation therewith. The first and second torque coupling members 40 and 41 may have any suitable shape as long as the first and second torque coupling members 40 and 41 may be coupled together to rotate integrally. For example, the first torque coupling member 40 may be a male member and the second torque coupling member may be a female member. In another example, the first torque coupling member 40 may be a female member and the second torque coupling member may be a male member.

In some examples of the HVAC module 14 of the present disclosure, the first torque coupling member 40 is a hub 37 that is attached to the shaft for rotation therewith. The hub 37 may include a boss 38 protruding through the wall 25 of the housing 12, the boss 38 defining a polygonal frustum 39 about the actuation axis 26. Similarly, the projections 38 may define a prism. A prism is a solid geometric figure whose two end faces are similar, equal and parallel rectilinear figures and whose side faces are parallelograms. A frustum is a solid geometric figure whose two end faces are similar and parallel rectilinear figures. The polygonal frustum has similar polygonal ends, but the base of the polygonal frustum is larger than the other end. A truncated pyramid is an example of a polygonal truncated pyramid. Two polygons are similar if and only if: all corresponding angle pairs are congruent; and the ratio of the metrics of the respective edges is equal. The example having the protrusions 38 defining the polygonal frustum 39 may be easier to assemble than the example having the prismatic protrusions because the polygonal frustum 39 has a draft angle for easy alignment.

In an example of the present disclosure, the second torque coupling member 41 may include a recess 52 complementary to the protrusion 38 to receive and rotate with the protrusion 38.

In some examples, the polygonal frustum 39 may be keyed to engage the second torque coupling member 41 at a predetermined position of the airflow control gate relative to the actuator angle of the complementary actuator 20, and prevent engagement of the second torque coupling member 41 when the misaligned position of the airflow control gate relative to the actuator angle is not the predetermined position of the airflow control gate relative to the actuator angle of the complementary actuator 20. As used herein, "actuator angle" refers to the angle of rotation of the second torque coupling member 41 about the actuation axis 26 relative to the housing 35 of the complementary actuator 20. Thus, the position of the airflow control door will be determinable from the actuator angle.

In some examples of the HVAC module 14 as disclosed herein, the shaft end 18 includes a first radial stop blade 33 and a second radial stop blade 34. The housing 12 may define a first stop tab 43 that protrudes from the externally threaded boss 22 toward the actuation axis 26. The housing 12 may also define a second stop tab 44 that protrudes from the externally threaded boss 22 toward the actuation axis 26. When the first torque coupling member 40 is in the first angular position (as shown in fig. 2), the first radial stop lobe 33 abuts the first stop tab 43, thereby preventing the shaft end 18 from rotating in the first rotational direction 47 beyond the first angular position. It should be understood that although the first rotational direction 47 is shown in fig. 2 as being in a counterclockwise direction, in other examples, the first rotational direction may be in a clockwise direction. When the first torque coupling member 40 is in the second angular position, the second radial stop lobe 34 abuts the second stop tab 44, thereby preventing the shaft end 18 from rotating in a second rotational direction 48, opposite the first rotational direction 47, beyond the second angular position.

Some examples of the HVAC module 14 of the present disclosure may include a first boss 55 and a second boss 56 defined on the outer surface 28 of the housing 12. The first boss 55 defines a first boss bore 65, the first boss bore 65 defining a first boss axis 75 at a first center 85 of the first boss bore 65. The first boss bores 65 are for threadedly receiving a threaded fastener (not shown). The second boss 56 defines a second boss bore 66, the second boss bore 66 defining a second boss axis 76 at a second center 86 of the second boss bore 66. The second center 86 of the second boss hole 66 is spaced apart from the first center 85 of the first boss hole 65. The second boss bores 66 are for threadedly receiving a threaded fastener (not shown). The complementary actuator 20 may be one of an electrically powered rotary actuator 30 and a manually operable rotary actuator 31. In the example, the electric rotary actuator has a first flange 70, the first flange 70 having a first flange aperture 72 defined in the first flange 70, the first flange aperture 72 being coaxial with the first boss aperture 65 when the complementary actuator 20 is in the first installed position on the housing 12. A threaded fastener is installed into the first boss hole 65 through the first flange hole 72. In the example, the manually operable rotary actuator has a second flange 71, the second flange 71 having a second flange aperture 73 defined in the second flange 71, the second flange aperture 73 being coaxial with the second boss aperture 66 when the complementary actuator 20 is in the second installed position on the housing 12. A threaded fastener is installed into the second boss hole 66 through the second flange hole 73. The second center 86 of the second boss hole 66 may be positioned to prevent threadingThe fastener is installed into the second boss hole 66 through the first flange hole 72. It should be understood that the threaded fastener may be any suitable threaded fastener, for example

Pan head screws, cross pan head screws, hex head bolts, or any threaded fasteners that retain the complementary actuator 20 at the second boss 56.

Examples of the present disclosure also include an HVAC system 10 for a vehicle 16. The HVAC system 10 includes an HVAC module 14 including a housing 12 for containing a heater core (not shown) and directing airflow within the interior of the housing 12. The airflow control door has a shaft for adjusting the position of the airflow control door in the housing 12. The airflow control door and shaft are further described above. The shaft end 18 is connected to the shaft, the shaft end 18 defining an actuation axis 26. An externally threaded boss 22 is defined on an outer surface 28 of the housing 12. The externally threaded boss 22 is coaxial with the shaft end 18. The rotation stop post 21 protrudes from the housing 12. The HVAC system 10 includes a complementary actuator 20 for adjusting the rotational position of the shaft and thus the position of the airflow control door in the housing 12. The complementary actuator 20 has a catch 24 defined thereon. The catch 24 will engage with the rotation stop post 21. Housing 12 retains complementary actuator 20 by threaded engagement with externally threaded boss 22 and by engagement between rotational stop post 21 and catch 24 to selectively prevent rotation of complementary actuator 20 about actuation axis 26.

In the example of the HVAC system 10 as disclosed herein, the rotation stop post 21 and the catch 24 may be as described above.

In some examples of the HVAC system 10, the complementary actuator 20 is selected from the group consisting of an electrically powered rotary actuator 30 and a manually operable rotary actuator 31. In an example, the manually operable rotary actuator 31 may be selected from the group consisting of a push-pull manually operable rotary actuator and a pull-pull manually operable rotary actuator. In an example, the manually operable rotary actuator 31 may be a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator. In an example, the manually operable rotary actuator 31 may be a push-pull manually operable rotary actuator.

In the example of the HVAC system 10 disclosed herein, the complementary actuator 20 is interchangeably an electrically-powered rotary actuator 30 and a manually-operable rotary actuator 31. In an example, the manually operable rotary actuator 31 may be selected from the group consisting of a push-pull manually operable rotary actuator and a pull-pull manually operable rotary actuator. In an example, the manually operable rotary actuator 31 may be a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator. In an example, the manually operable rotary actuator 31 may be a push-pull manually operable rotary actuator. Thus, in the examples of the present disclosure, as otherwise disclosed herein, the electrically-powered rotary actuator 30 and the manually-operable rotary actuator 31 are each interchangeably mountable on the same housing 12 connected to the same shaft end 18.

In some examples of the HVAC system 10, the shaft end 18 includes a first torque coupling member 40 rotatably located at the wall 25 of the housing 12. The first torque coupling member 40 is rotatable about the actuation axis 26 from a first angular position (shown in fig. 2) to a second angular position. The complementary actuator 20 includes a second torque coupling member 41 to couple with the first torque coupling member 40 for rotation therewith.

In some examples of the HVAC system 10 of the present disclosure, the first torque coupling member 40 is a hub 37, the hub 37 being attached to the shaft for rotation therewith. The hub 37 includes a boss 38 that protrudes through the wall 25 of the housing 12. The boss 38 may define a polygonal frustum 39 about the actuation axis 26. The second torque coupling member 41 includes a recess complementary to the protrusion 38 to receive and rotate with the protrusion 38.

In the example of the HVAC system 10, the polygonal frustum 39 may be keyed to engage the second torque coupling member 41 at a predetermined position of the airflow control door relative to the actuator angle of the complementary actuator 20, and prevent engagement of the second torque coupling member 41 when the misaligned position of the airflow control door relative to the actuator angle is not the predetermined position of the airflow control door relative to the actuator angle of the complementary actuator 20. As shown in FIG. 2, the end of the polygonal frustum 39 is a 13-sided polygon, with one side of each polygon being larger than the other 12 equally sized sides. The larger sides of the end polygons allow the first and second torque coupling members 40 and 41 to be mounted together only in the proper rotational relationship between the complementary actuator 20 and the airflow control door.

In some examples of the HVAC system 10 disclosed herein, the shaft end 18 includes a first radial stop blade 33 and a second radial stop blade 34. The housing 12 defines a first stop tab 43 projecting from the externally threaded boss 22 toward the actuation axis 26. The housing 12 defines a second stop tab 44 projecting from the externally threaded boss 22 toward the actuation axis 26. When the first torque coupling member 40 is in the first angular position, the first radial stop lobe 33 abuts the first stop tab 43, preventing the shaft end 18 from rotating beyond the first angular position in the first rotational direction 47. When the first torque coupling member 40 is in the second angular position, the second radial stop lobe 34 abuts the second stop tab 44, thereby preventing the shaft end 18 from rotating beyond the second angular position in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction 47.

In some examples of the present disclosure, the HVAC system 10 further includes a first boss 55 defined on the outer surface 28 of the housing 12. The first boss hole 65 is defined by the first boss 55. The first boss bores 65 are for threadedly receiving threaded fasteners. The first boss axis 75 is located at a first center 85 of the first boss bore 65. A second boss 56 is defined on the outer surface 28 of the housing 12. The second boss hole 66 is defined by the second boss 56. The second boss bores 66 are for threadedly receiving a threaded fastener. The second boss axis 76 is located at a second center 86 of the second boss bore 66. The second center 86 of the second boss hole 66 is spaced apart from the first center 85 of the first boss hole 65. The HVAC system 10 may further include a complementary actuator 20. In the example, the complementary actuator 20 is one of an electrically powered rotary actuator 30 and a manually operable rotary actuator 31. In an example, the manually operable rotary actuator 31 may be selected from the group consisting of a push-pull manually operable rotary actuator and a pull-pull manually operable rotary actuator. In an example, the manually operable rotary actuator 31 may be a pull-type manually operable rotary actuator. In an example, the manually operable rotary actuator 31 may be a push-pull manually operable rotary actuator. In an example where the complementary actuator 20 is an electric rotary actuator 30, the electric rotary actuator 30 has a first flange 70, the first flange 70 having a first flange aperture 72 defined in the first flange 70. When complementary actuator 20 is in a first installed position on housing 12, first flange aperture 72 is coaxial with first boss aperture 65. A threaded fastener is installed into the first boss hole 65 through the first flange hole 72. In the example where the complementary actuator 20 is the manually-operable rotary actuator 31, the manually-operable rotary actuator 31 has a second flange 71, the second flange 71 having a second flange aperture 73 defined in the second flange 71, the second flange aperture 73 being coaxial with the second boss aperture 66 when the complementary actuator 20 is in the second installed position on the housing 12. A threaded fastener is installed into the second boss hole 66 through the second flange hole 73.

It will be appreciated that the electrically operated rotary actuator 30 will be mounted in a first mounting position, while the manually operable rotary actuator 31 will be mounted in a second mounting position. The electric rotary actuator 30 cannot be mounted in the second mounting position and the manually operable rotary actuator 31 cannot be mounted in the first mounting position. It should also be understood that the use of "first" and "second" in relation to the features of the complementary actuator 20 is to distinguish between the features of the electrically and manually operable rotary actuators 30, 31. For purposes of illustration, although the manually-operable rotary actuator 31 has the second flange 71, the first flange 70 is not a feature of the manually-operable rotary actuator 31. The first flange 70 is a feature of the electric rotary actuator 30.

Reference throughout the specification to "an example," "another example," "an example," etc., means that a particular element (e.g., feature, structure, and/or characteristic) described in connection with the example is included in at least one example described herein, and may or may not be present in other examples. In addition, it is to be understood that the described elements for any example may be combined in any suitable manner in the various examples, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

In describing and claiming the examples disclosed herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

The terms "connect" and variations thereof, "attach" and variations thereof, and the like are broadly defined herein to encompass a variety of different connection arrangements and assembly techniques. These arrangements and techniques include, but are not limited to: (1) direct communication between one component and another component without intervening components therebetween; (2) communication between one component and another component with one or more components therebetween, provided that one component is "connected to" or "attached to" another component in some manner in communication with the other component (although one or more other components may be present therebetween). In addition, the two components may be permanently, semi-permanently, or releasably engaged and/or connected to one another.

It should also be understood that "communication" should be construed to include all forms of communication, including direct and indirect communication. Indirect communication may include communication between two components with an additional component located therebetween.

Although a number of examples have been described in detail, it should be understood that the disclosed examples can be modified. Accordingly, the foregoing description should be considered as non-limiting.