Importance

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Abstract

An improved fin array for use in a heat transfer assembly, such as a condenser for a vehicle air conditioning system, and a method of making the improved fin array, are disclosed. The fin array comprises an elongated one-piece fin member having top and bottom base portions with fin sets extending between adjacent top and bottom base portions. The top and bottom base portions are generally flat for bonding to the heat exchanger tubes, such as by brazing. Each fin set includes a plurality of individual fins extending generally perpendicularly to a longitudinal length of the fin member and having side edges that are longitudinally offset with respect to each other. The offset fin edges provide increased air flow over the individual fins and thus increase the efficiency of the overall heat exchanger. The fins may also be slightly bowed to accommodate for variation in the tolerances of the adjacent tubes. Additionally, the fins may also have a slightly arcuate cross section to impart greater column strength to the fins contained within the improved fin array. The method of making the improved fin array includes a providing a flat sheet of elongated fin stock, pressing a chisel shape into the fin stock to a depth of between 40 to 90 percent of the thickness of the fin stock in order to produce a cut pattern along the length of the fin stock, bending the fin stock into a serpentine pattern, and then compressing the fin stock to finalize the one-piece fin member.

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First Claim