CFD analysis allowed the engineers to visualize the gradual melting of the ice layer. The model was originally developed using a CAD program. In addition to the windshield, the passenger compartment and instrument panel were included. The defroster unit is positioned below the windshield, and the output from the unit passes to the windshield through a set of grills. The regions with colored patterns correspond to regions where ice is still on the windshield, with blue representing the thickest covering and red the thinnest.
Good agreement is seen.
The CFD predictions after 5 minutes of operation show good correlation with measurements as well. This analysis illustrates the power of CFD to save time in the design cycle for these units, thereby cutting back on the overall cost of development. At Visteon, CFD is now being used extensively to save time and money in the design of many automotive system applications.