Heat exchangers, outdoor units, and air conditioning systems

JP2026142008APending Publication Date: 2026-09-07MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORP
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2025028838
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-02-26
Publication Date
2026-09-07

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

【0008】 本開示に従えば、下側熱交換器と上側熱交換器との間に寸法差が存在する場合にも、下側熱交換器と上側熱交換器とを適切に連結できる。

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Abstract

The present invention provides a heat exchanger that can properly connect the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger even when there is a dimensional difference between them. [Solution] The heat exchanger 101 comprises a lower heat exchanger 1 and an upper heat exchanger 2 arranged side by side in the vertical direction, and a positioning member 3 for positioning the upper heat exchanger relative to the lower heat exchanger. Each of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger includes heat transfer tubes extending along a direction intersecting the vertical direction. The positioning member includes a first member 4 and a second member 5. The first member has a first fixing portion 41 fixed to one end of the lower heat exchanger in the direction in which the heat transfer tubes extend, and an engaging portion 42 that engages with one end of the upper heat exchanger in the direction in which the heat transfer tubes extend. The second member has a second fixing portion 51 fixed to the other end of the lower heat exchanger in the direction in which the heat transfer tubes extend, and a connecting portion 52 that is connected to the corner of the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the direction in which the heat transfer tubes extend.
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Description

[[Technical Field]]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heat exchanger, an outdoor unit, and an air conditioner. [[Background Art]]

[0002] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2020-60353 (Patent Document 1) describes an air heat exchanger unit formed by stacking an upper heat exchanger and a lower heat exchanger in a vertical direction. The upper heat exchanger and the lower heat exchanger are connected to each other by a bracket.

[0003] In Patent Document 1, the bracket and the lower heat exchanger or the upper heat exchanger are engaged such that relative movement in a direction intersecting the vertical direction, that is, the extending direction of a tube and the plate thickness direction of a bent portion, is restricted. The inner surfaces of a first hanging portion and a second hanging portion of the bracket contact the panel surface of the lower heat exchanger, and the inner surfaces of a first rising portion and a second rising portion of the bracket contact the panel surface of the upper heat exchanger. [[Prior Art Documents]] [[Patent Documents]]

[0004] [[Patent Document 1]] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2020-60353 [[Summary of the Invention]] [[Problem to be Solved by the Invention]]

[0005] In the air heat exchanger unit described in Patent Document 1, when a dimensional difference exists between the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger, it is difficult for the bracket to appropriately connect the upper heat exchanger and the lower heat exchanger.

[0006] A main object of the present disclosure is to provide a heat exchanger that can appropriately connect a lower heat exchanger and an upper heat exchanger even when a dimensional difference exists between the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger. [[Means for Solving the Problem]]

[0007] The heat exchanger according to this disclosure comprises a lower heat exchanger and an upper heat exchanger arranged side by side in the vertical direction, and a positioning member for positioning the upper heat exchanger relative to the lower heat exchanger. Each of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger includes heat transfer tubes extending along a direction intersecting the vertical direction. The positioning member includes a first member and a second member. The first member has a fixed portion fixed to one end of the lower heat exchanger in the direction of extension of the heat transfer tubes, and an engaging portion that engages with one end of the upper heat exchanger in the direction of extension. The second member has a fixed portion fixed to the other end of the lower heat exchanger in the direction of extension, and a connecting portion that is connected to the corner of the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the direction of extension. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger can be properly connected even when there is a dimensional difference between them. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing an example of a heat exchanger and outdoor unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a partially enlarged perspective view illustrating the first member of the positioning member shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] This is a partially enlarged perspective view illustrating the second member of the positioning member shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a partially enlarged perspective view illustrating the lower heat exchanger and positioning member shown. [Figure 5] Figure 1 is an exploded, enlarged perspective view illustrating the first, second, and third members of the positioning member shown. [Figure 6] Figure 1 is a plan view illustrating the first, second, and third members of the positioning member shown in Figure 1. [Figure 7]Figure 6 is a partially enlarged plan view showing the second and third members of the positioning member shown, when the third member is in a first position relative to the first and second members. [Figure 8] Figure 6 is a partially enlarged plan view showing the second and third members of the positioning member shown, when the third member is in the second position relative to the first and second members. [Figure 9] This is a partially enlarged cross-section showing the relationship between the lower heat exchanger, the upper heat exchanger, and the third member, which can be realized when the third member is in a first position relative to the first and second members. [Figure 10] This is a partially enlarged cross-section showing the relationship between the lower heat exchanger, the upper heat exchanger, and the third member, which can be realized when the third member is in a second position relative to the first and second members. [Figure 11] This is a partially enlarged perspective view showing a first modified example of the heat exchanger according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a partially enlarged perspective view showing a second modified example of the heat exchanger according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] This is a partially enlarged perspective view showing a third modified example of the heat exchanger according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following, the same or corresponding parts will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will not be repeated.

[0011] The heat exchanger according to the embodiment of this disclosure acts as at least one of a condenser and an evaporator in a refrigerant circuit provided in an air conditioning system. The heat exchanger according to this embodiment is, for example, an outdoor heat exchanger housed in the outdoor unit of an air conditioning system. The heat exchanger according to this embodiment is housed in the casing of the outdoor unit.

[0012] Referring to Figures 1 to 5, a heat exchanger 101 and an outdoor unit 200 will be described as an example of a heat exchanger and outdoor unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the heat exchanger 101 and the outdoor unit 200. Figure 2 is a partially enlarged perspective view of area II in Figure 1, and is a diagram for explaining the first member of the positioning member shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a partially enlarged perspective view for explaining the second member of the positioning member shown in Figure 1. Figure 4 is a partially enlarged perspective view for explaining the lower heat exchanger and positioning member shown in Figure 1. In Figure 4, the upper heat exchanger 2 is not shown. Figure 5 is an exploded enlarged perspective view for explaining the first, second, and third members of the positioning member shown in Figure 1. In Figure 5, members other than the positioning member 3 are not shown. For the convenience of explanation, each figure includes a vertical direction VDR, a first direction DR1 intersecting the vertical direction VDR, and a second direction DR2 intersecting both the vertical direction VDR and the first direction DR1. The first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 are, for example, aligned horizontally.

[0013] As shown in Figure 1, the heat exchanger 101 comprises a lower heat exchanger 1, an upper heat exchanger 2, and a positioning member 3. The heat exchanger 101 is an outdoor heat exchanger, for example, housed in an outdoor unit 200. The outdoor unit 200 comprises the heat exchanger 101 and a housing 120 that houses the heat exchanger 101. In the outdoor unit 200, the lower heat exchanger 1 is fixed to the housing 120. The upper heat exchanger 2 is positioned relative to the lower heat exchanger 1 by the positioning member 3. The positioning member 3 is a member for positioning the upper heat exchanger 2 relative to the lower heat exchanger 1. In the heat exchanger 101, a tolerance range is predetermined for the dimensional difference between the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2. The positioning member 3 can position the upper heat exchanger 2 relative to the lower heat exchanger 1 for the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2 having a dimensional difference within the above tolerance range.

[0014] As shown in Figure 1, the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction VDR. Each of the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2 includes at least one heat transfer tube. The lower heat exchanger 1 includes a first heat exchange portion 10, a first end portion 11, and a second end portion 12. The upper heat exchanger 2 includes a second heat exchange portion 20, a third end portion 21, and a fourth end portion 22.

[0015] Each of the first heat exchange portion 10 and the second heat exchange portion 20 is provided such that heat exchange occurs between the refrigerant flowing inside the heat transfer tube and a heat medium such as air flowing around the heat transfer tube. Each of the first heat exchange portion 10 and the second heat exchange portion 20 includes, for example, at least a part of a heat transfer tube and a fin connected to at least a part of the heat transfer tube. The heat transfer tube may be a circular tube or a flat tube. Each of the first heat exchange portion 10 and the second heat exchange portion 20 is provided with an air passage extending along a direction intersecting the extending direction of the heat transfer tube. The number of heat transfer tubes and fins included in each of the first heat exchange portion 10 and the second heat exchange portion 20 may be arbitrarily set. The number of rows and the number of stages of heat transfer tubes included in each of the first heat exchange portion 10 and the second heat exchange portion 20 may be arbitrarily set.

[0016] Note that the heat transfer tubes of the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2 may be connected to each other in series or in parallel.

[0017] Each of the first heat exchange section 10 and the second heat exchange section 20 includes a U-shaped section having a U-shape when viewed, for example, from the vertical VDR. In each of the first heat exchange section 10 and the second heat exchange section 20, the heat transfer tubes are bent, for example, to form a U-shape. The U-shaped section of the first heat exchange section 10 includes a first portion 10A and a second portion 10B facing each other in a first direction DR1 intersecting the vertical VDR, and a third portion 10C spanning between the first portion 10A and the second portion 10B. The U-shaped section of the first heat exchange section 10 further includes a plurality of curved portions. The plurality of curved portions include a curved portion connecting the first portion 10A and the third portion 10C, and a curved portion connecting the second portion 10B and the third portion 10C. The U-shaped portion of the second heat exchange section 20 includes a first portion 20A and a second portion 20B that face each other in a first direction DR1 intersecting the vertical direction VDR, and a third portion 20C that spans between the first portion 20A and the second portion 20B. The U-shaped portion of the first heat exchange section 10 further includes a plurality of curved portions. The plurality of curved portions include a curved portion connecting the first portion 20A and the third portion 20C, and a curved portion connecting the second portion 20B and the third portion 20C.

[0018] The first portion 10A and the second portion 10B of the first heat exchange section 10, and the first portion 20A and the second portion 20B of the second heat exchange section 20, extend along the second direction DR2. In each of the first portion 10A and the second portion 10B of the first heat exchange section 10, and the first portion 20A and the second portion 20B of the second heat exchange section 20, the heat transfer tubes extend along the second direction DR2. Each of the first portion 10A and the second portion 10B of the first heat exchange section 10, and the first portion 20A and the second portion 20B of the second heat exchange section 20, is provided with a ventilation passage extending along the first direction DR1.

[0019] The third portion 10C of the first heat exchange section 10 and the third portion 20C of the second heat exchange section 20 extend along the first direction DR1. In each of the third portion 10C of the first heat exchange section 10 and the third portion 20C of the second heat exchange section 20, the heat transfer tubes extend along the first direction DR1. Each of the third portion 10C of the first heat exchange section 10 and the third portion 20C of the second heat exchange section 20 is provided with a ventilation passage extending along the second direction DR2.

[0020] When viewed from the vertical VDR, the angles formed between each of the first part 10A and the second part 10B of the first heat exchange section 10 and the third part 10C are, for example, right angles. However, when viewed from the vertical VDR, the angles formed between each of the first part 10A and the second part 10B of the first heat exchange section 10 and the third part 10C may be any angle, and may even be obtuse.

[0021] Each of the first portion 20A, second portion 20B, and third portion 20C of the second heat exchange section 20 is positioned on each of the first portion 10A, second portion 10B, and third portion 10C of the first heat exchange section 10. At least a portion of each of the first portion 20A, second portion 20B, and third portion 20C of the second heat exchange section 20 overlaps with each of the first portion 10A, second portion 10B, and third portion 10C of the first heat exchange section 10 in the vertical VDR. However, a portion of each of the first portion 20A, second portion 20B, and third portion 20C of the second heat exchange section 20 does not have to overlap with each of the first portion 10A, second portion 10B, and third portion 10C of the first heat exchange section 10 in the vertical VDR. From a different perspective, a dimensional difference between the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2 in the direction intersecting the vertical VDR is permitted within a predetermined range.

[0022] As shown in Figure 1, the first end 11 and the second end 12 are connected to both ends of the heat exchange section 10 in the extending direction of the heat transfer tube. The first end 11 is connected to the first part 10A of the first heat exchange section 10. The second end 12 is connected to the second part 10B of the first heat exchange section 10. The third end 21 and the fourth end 22 are connected to both ends of the heat exchange section 20 in the extending direction of the heat transfer tube. The third end 21 is connected to the first part 20A of the second heat exchange section 20. The fourth end 22 is connected to the second part 20B of the second heat exchange section 20. Each of the first end 11, the second end 12, the third end 21, and the fourth end 22 may further have an end of the heat transfer tube or a folded portion of the heat transfer tube. Each of the first end 11, the second end 12, the third end 21, and the fourth end 22 may have a header.

[0023] Each of the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2 may have multiple rows of heat exchange sections arranged side by side in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heat transfer tubes extend. The lower heat exchanger 1 may have multiple first ends 11 connected to one end of each of the multiple rows of first heat exchange sections 10. The upper heat exchanger 2 may have multiple third ends 21 connected to one end of each of the multiple rows of first heat exchange sections 10.

[0024] As shown in Figure 1, the positioning member 3 of the heat exchanger 101 comprises a first member 4, a second member 5, and a third member 6. The first member 4 connects the first portion 10A of the lower heat exchanger 1 and the first portion 20A of the upper heat exchanger 2. The first member 4 has a portion positioned between the first portion 10A of the lower heat exchanger 1 and the first portion 20A of the upper heat exchanger 2. The second member 5 connects the second portion 10B of the lower heat exchanger 1 and the second portion 20B of the upper heat exchanger 2. The second member 5 has a portion positioned between the second portion 10B of the lower heat exchanger 1 and the second portion 20B of the upper heat exchanger 2. The third member 6 connects the third portion 10C of the lower heat exchanger 1 and the third portion 20C of the upper heat exchanger 2. The third member 6 has a portion that is positioned between the third portion 10C of the lower heat exchanger 1 and the third portion 20C of the upper heat exchanger 2.

[0025] As shown in Figure 2, the first member 4 has a first fixing portion 41 and an engaging portion 42. The first fixing portion 41 is fixed to one end of the lower heat exchanger 1 in the extending direction of the heat transfer tube. The first fixing portion 41 is fixed, for example, to the first end 11 of the lower heat exchanger 1. The first fixing portion 41 has, for example, a plate-like portion that extends along the vertical direction VDR and the second direction DR2, respectively. The first fixing portion 41 may be fixed to the lower heat exchanger 1 by any fixing means. The first fixing portion 41 is fixed to the first end 11 by, for example, a first fixing member 45. The first fixing member 45 is, for example, a screw. The first fixing member 45 is, for example, a male screw. The first fixing member 45 may also be a female screw.

[0026] The engaging portion 42 is provided to engage with one end of the upper heat exchanger 2 in the extending direction of the heat transfer tube. The engaging portion 42 is provided to engage with, for example, the third end 21 of the upper heat exchanger 2. The engaging portion 42 is provided to engage with, for example, the third end 21 of the upper heat exchanger 2. The engaging portion 42 is provided integrally with, for example, the first fixing portion 41. The engaging portion 42 is provided as a through hole that penetrates the first member 4 in the vertical direction VDR.

[0027] As shown in Figure 2, each of the first end 11 and the third end 21 has a plate portion extending, for example, in the vertical direction VDR and in the second direction DR2. The plate portion has higher rigidity than the fins of the heat exchanger. The material constituting the plate portion includes, for example, metal. The dimension (thickness) in the first direction DR1 of each plate portion of the first end 11 and the third end 21 is smaller than the dimensions in the vertical direction VDR and in the second direction DR2 of each plate portion of the first end 11 and the third end 21.

[0028] The plate portion of the first end 11 protrudes from the first heat exchange section 10 in the second direction DR2. The plate portion of the third end 21 protrudes from the second heat exchange section 20 in the second direction DR2. The plate portion of the third end 21 has a convex portion 23 that protrudes downward from the second heat exchange section 20. The engaging portion 42 of the first member 4 is provided to engage with the convex portion 23. Note that the convex portion 23 may be included in the second heat exchange section 20 of the upper heat exchanger 2.

[0029] Furthermore, the engaging portion 42 of the first member 4 and the third end portion 21 of the upper heat exchanger 2 may have any structure as long as they can engage with each other. Either the engaging portion 42 of the first member 4 or the third end portion 21 of the upper heat exchanger 2 may be provided with a recess that opens in the vertical direction VDR, and the other of the engaging portion 42 of the first member 4 or the third end portion 21 of the upper heat exchanger 2 may be provided with a protrusion that fits into the recess. The engaging portion 42 may be provided as a recess that opens only on the upper surface of the first member 4. Alternatively, the engaging portion 42 may be provided as a protrusion that projects upward from the upper surface of the first member 4. In this case, the third end portion 21 of the upper heat exchanger 2 may be provided with a recess that fits into the protrusion.

[0030] As shown in Figure 2, the first member 4 further includes an intermediate portion 43 located between the first heat exchange section 10 of the lower heat exchanger 1 and the second heat exchange section 20 of the upper heat exchanger 2 in the vertical direction VDR. The first fixed portion 41 is provided, for example, to extend downward from one end of the intermediate portion 43 in the second direction DR2. The upper end of the first fixed portion 41 is connected, for example, to one end of the intermediate portion 43 in the second direction DR2. The engaging portion 42 is provided, for example, at one end of the intermediate portion 43 in the second direction DR2.

[0031] Preferably, the first member 4 is provided with a plurality of through holes that penetrate the intermediate portion 43 in the vertical direction VDR. The plurality of through holes can act as a flow path for liquids such as condensed water. The opening shape of each of the plurality of through holes can be any shape, but for example, it is circular. The plurality of through holes includes, for example, a plurality of first through holes 43H1 and a plurality of second through holes 43H2. The opening area of ​​each of the plurality of first through holes 43H1 is larger than the opening area of ​​each of the plurality of second through holes 43H2. The plurality of first through holes 43H1 are spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2. The center of each of the plurality of first through holes 43H1 is, for example, located on the center line of the intermediate portion 43 in the first direction DR1. The plurality of second through holes 43H2 are spaced apart from each other around the plurality of first through holes 43H1. The multiple second through holes 43H2 are arranged at intervals from each other, for example, in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0032] Preferably, the first member 4 further includes a pair of lower protrusions 44A, 44B. The pair of lower protrusions 44A, 44B protrude downward from both ends of the intermediate portion 43 in a first direction DR1 (width direction) that intersects with the vertical direction VDR and the extending direction of the heat transfer tube, respectively. The lower protrusion 44A is connected, for example, to the upper end of the first fixed portion 41. The first fixed portion 41 and the lower protrusion 44A have, for example, an L-shape. The pair of lower protrusions 44A, 44B are provided so as to sandwich the upper end portion of the first portion 10A of the first heat exchange section 10.

[0033] Preferably, the first member 4 is provided with a plurality of through holes 44H that penetrate each of the pair of lower protrusions 44A and 44B in the width direction. The plurality of through holes 44H can act as a flow path for a heat transfer medium such as air. Preferably, in the width direction, the plurality of through holes 44H of the lower protrusion 44A are provided so as to overlap with at least a portion of the plurality of through holes 44H of the lower protrusion 44B. More preferably, in the width direction, the plurality of through holes 44H of the lower protrusion 44A are provided so as to overlap with the entire plurality of through holes 44H of the lower protrusion 44B. The opening shape of each of the plurality of through holes 44H can be any shape, but for example, it is circular. The plurality of through holes 44H are arranged with a gap between them in the second direction DR2.

[0034] As shown in Figure 2, when the lower heat exchanger 1 has multiple rows of first heat exchange sections 10 and multiple first end sections 11, and the upper heat exchanger 2 has multiple rows of second heat exchange sections 20 and multiple third end sections 21, the first fixing portion 41 of the first member 4 is fixed to one of the multiple first end sections 11 of the first heat exchange section 10 that is located furthest out in the width direction. In this case, the engaging portion 42 of the first member 4 is provided to engage with, for example, a protrusion 23 included in one of the multiple third end sections 21 of the upper heat exchanger 2 that is located furthest out in the width direction.

[0035] As shown in Figure 3, the second member 5 has a second fixing portion 51 and a connecting portion 52. The second fixing portion 51 is fixed to the other end of the lower heat exchanger 1 in the extending direction of the heat transfer tube (opposite to the end of the lower heat exchanger 1 to which the first fixing portion 41 is fixed). The second fixing portion 51 is fixed, for example, to the second end portion 12 of the lower heat exchanger 1.

[0036] The second fixing portion 51 has, for example, a plate-shaped portion extending along the vertical direction VDR and the second direction DR2, respectively. The second fixing portion 51 can be fixed to the lower heat exchanger 1 by any fixing means. The second fixing portion 51 is fixed to the second end 12 by, for example, a second fixing member 55. The second fixing member 55 is, for example, a screw.

[0037] The connecting portion 52 can be connected to the corner of the other end of the upper heat exchanger 2 in the extending direction of the heat transfer tube (opposite to the end of the upper heat exchanger 2 to which the engaging portion 42 is engaged). The connecting portion 52 can be connected, for example, to the corner of the fourth end portion 22 of the upper heat exchanger 2. The connecting portion 52 is provided integrally with, for example, the second fixing portion 51. The second fixing portion 51 and the connecting portion 52 are provided as a T-shaped member together with, for example, the lower protrusion 54A described later.

[0038] As shown in Figure 3, each of the second end 12 and the fourth end 22 has, for example, a corner. The corner has higher rigidity than the fins of the heat exchange section. The material constituting the corner includes, for example, metal.

[0039] The second end 12 has a third surface 12A and a fourth surface 12B. The third surface 12A faces away from the second portion 10B in the direction in which the heat transfer tubes extend in the second portion 10B of the first heat exchange section 10. The third surface 12A extends, for example, along the vertical direction VDR and the first direction DR1. The fourth surface 12B extends along the direction in which the heat transfer tubes extend in the second portion 10B of the first heat exchange section 10. The fourth surface 12B extends, for example, along the vertical direction VDR and the second direction DR2. The fourth surface 12B is connected to the third surface 12A.

[0040] The fourth end 22 has a first surface 22A and a second surface 22B. The first surface 22A faces away from the second portion 20B in the direction in which the heat transfer tubes extend in the second portion 20B of the second heat exchange section 20. The first surface 22A extends, for example, along the vertical direction VDR and the first direction DR1. The second surface 22B extends along the direction in which the heat transfer tubes extend in the second portion 20B of the second heat exchange section 20. The second surface 22B extends, for example, along the vertical direction VDR and the second direction DR2. The second surface 22B is connected to the first surface 22A.

[0041] Preferably, the connecting portion 52 of the second member 5 has a first connecting portion 52A that can contact the first surface 22A of the fourth end portion 22, and a second connecting portion 52B that can be connected to the second surface 22B of the fourth end portion 22. The first connecting portion 52A extends, for example, from one end of the second direction DR2 of the second connecting portion 52B in the first direction DR1.

[0042] Preferably, the second fixing portion 51 of the second member 5 has a third connecting portion 51A that can contact the third surface 12A of the second end portion 12, and a fourth connecting portion 51B that can be connected to the fourth surface 12B of the second end portion 12. The third connecting portion 51A extends, for example, from one end of the fourth connecting portion 51B in the second direction DR2 to the first direction DR1.

[0043] As shown in Figure 3, the second member 5 further includes an intermediate portion 53 located between the first heat exchange section 10 of the lower heat exchanger 1 and the second heat exchange section 20 of the upper heat exchanger 2 in the vertical direction VDR. The second fixed portion 51 is provided, for example, to extend downward from one end of the intermediate portion 53 in the second direction DR2. The upper end of the second fixed portion 51 is connected, for example, to one end of the intermediate portion 53 in the second direction DR2. The connecting portion 52 is provided, for example, at one end of the intermediate portion 53 in the second direction DR2.

[0044] Preferably, the second member 5 is provided with a plurality of through holes 53H1, 53H2 that penetrate the intermediate portion 53 in the vertical direction VDR. The plurality of through holes 53H1, 53H2 provided in the intermediate portion 53 may have the same configuration as the plurality of through holes 43H1, 43H2 provided in the intermediate portion 43.

[0045] Preferably, the second member 5 further includes a pair of lower protrusions 54A, 54B. The lower protrusions 54A, 54B protrude downward from both ends of the intermediate portion 53 in the first direction DR1 (width direction) which intersects with the vertical direction VDR and the extending direction of the heat transfer tube, respectively. The lower protrusions 54A are connected, for example, to the upper end of the second fixed portion 51 and the lower end of the connecting portion 52. The lower protrusions 54A are connected, for example, to the second fixed portion 51 and the connecting portion 52 in a T-shape. The pair of lower protrusions 54A, 54B are provided so as to sandwich the upper end portion of the second portion 10B of the first heat exchange portion 10.

[0046] Preferably, the second member 5 is provided with a plurality of through holes 54H that penetrate each of the pair of lower protrusions 54A and 54B in the width direction. The plurality of through holes 54H may have the same configuration as the plurality of through holes 44H.

[0047] As shown in Figure 4, the second fixing portion 51 of the second member 5 is located on the opposite side of the first fixing portion 41 of the first member 4 in the direction of extension of the heat transfer tube. The connecting portion 52 of the second member 5 is located on the opposite side of the engaging portion 42 of the first member 4 in the direction of extension of the heat transfer tube. The second fixing portion 51 is located on the opposite side of the first fixing portion 41 in the first direction DR1, for example. The connecting portion 52 is located on the opposite side of the engaging portion 42 of the first member 4 in the first direction DR1, for example. The first fixing portion 41 and the second fixing portion 51 are located opposite each other in the first direction DR1, for example, with the first portion 10A and the second portion 10B in between. The engaging portion 42 and the connecting portion 52 are located opposite each other in the first direction DR1, for example, with the first portion 10A and the second portion 10B in between.

[0048] As shown in Figure 4, the third member 6 includes an intermediate portion 63, a lower projection 64, and an upper projection 65. The intermediate portion 63 is positioned between the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2 in the vertical direction VDR. The intermediate portion 63 is positioned between the third portion 10C of the lower heat exchanger 1 and the third portion 20C of the upper heat exchanger 2 (see Figure 1) in the vertical direction VDR. The lower projection 64 protrudes downward from one end of the intermediate portion 63 in the width direction intersecting the vertical direction VDR and the extending direction of the heat transfer tubes. The lower projection 64 protrudes downward from one end of the intermediate portion 63 in the second direction DR2, for example. The upper projection 65 protrudes upward from the other end of the intermediate portion 63 in the width direction. The upper projection 65 protrudes upward from, for example, the other end of the intermediate portion 63 in the second direction DR2. The lower projection 64 is positioned, for example, inside the U-shaped portion of the lower heat exchanger 1. The upper projection 65 is positioned, for example, outside the U-shaped portion of the lower heat exchanger 1.

[0049] Preferably, the third member 6 is provided with a plurality of through holes 63H1, 63H2 that penetrate the intermediate portion 63 in the vertical direction VDR. The plurality of through holes 63H1, 63H2 provided in the intermediate portion 63 may have the same configuration as the plurality of through holes 43H1, 43H2 provided in the intermediate portion 43.

[0050] Preferably, the third member 6 is provided with a plurality of through holes 64H that penetrate the lower projection 64 in the width direction. Preferably, the third member 6 is provided with a plurality of through holes 65H that penetrate the upper projection 65 in the width direction. The plurality of through holes 64H, 65H may have the same configuration as the plurality of through holes 44H.

[0051] As shown in Figure 5, the first member 4, the second member 5, and the third member 6 are, for example, separate members. The first member 4 is connected to the third member 6. The second member 5 is connected to the first member 4 via the third member 6.

[0052] As shown in Figure 5, the third member 6 further includes a plurality of fixing members 7, 8. Fixing member 7 is for fixing the third member 6 to the first member 4. Fixing member 8 is for fixing the third member 6 to the second member 5. Preferably, the plurality of fixing members 7, 8 can switch between a fixed state in which the third member 6 is fixed to each of the first member 4 and the second member 5, and an unfixed state in which the third member 6 is movable relative to each of the first member 4 and the second member 5. The plurality of fixing members 7, 8 are, for example, screws. The plurality of fixing members 7, 8 may be other fixing means such as clamps.

[0053] The fixing position of the third member 6 relative to the first member 4 and the second member 5 can be changed in the width direction of the third member 6. The fixing position of the third member 6 relative to the first member 4 and the second member 5 can be changed, for example, in the second direction DR2, which is the width direction of the third member 6. Preferably, the third member 6 is movable relative to the first member 4 and the second member 5 in the second direction DR2. The third member 6 is movable relative to the first member 4 and the second member 5, for example, between a first position and a second position. The third member 6 in the first position is moved to its maximum extent on one side in the width direction relative to the first member 4 and the second member 5. The third member 6 in the second position is moved to its maximum extent on the other side in the width direction relative to the first member 4 and the second member 5.

[0054] Figure 6 is a plan view showing the positioning member 3 when the third member 6 is in an intermediate position between the first position and the second position relative to the first member 4 and the second member 5. Figure 7 is a partially enlarged plan view showing the second member 5 and the third member 6 when the third member 6 is in the first position relative to the first member 4 and the second member 5. Figure 8 is a partially enlarged plan view showing the second member 5 and the third member 6 when the third member 6 is in the second position relative to the first member 4 and the second member 5.

[0055] As shown in Figure 6, the first member 4 is provided with a first recess 47 through which the fixing member 7 passes. The first recess 47 has, for example, a female screw portion that engages with the male screw portion of the fixing member 7. The first recess 47 is provided, for example, as a through hole. The first recess 47 may also be provided as a bottomed groove having a female screw portion. Alternatively, the first recess 47 may be provided as a through hole without a female screw portion. In the latter case, the fixing member 7 only needs to have a male screw portion and a female screw portion. The third member 6 is provided with a third through hole 67A through which the fixing member 7 passes. The opening width of the third through hole 67A in the width direction of the third member 6 is wider than the opening width of the first recess 47 in the width direction of the third member 6. The opening width of the third through hole 67A in the second direction DR2 is wider than the opening width of the first recess 47 in the second direction DR2. The first member 4 is further provided with a second recess 48. The third member 6 has a first claw 68A that is movable within the second recess 48 of the first member 4 in the width direction of the third member 6. The width of the opening of the second recess 48 of the third member 6 in the width direction is greater than the length of the first claw 68A in that width direction. The width of the opening of the second recess 48 in the second direction DR2 is greater than the length of the first claw 68A in the second direction DR2. The width of the opening of the second recess 48 in the first direction DR1 is greater than the width of the first claw 68A in the first direction DR1.

[0056] As shown in Figure 6, the portion of the third member 6 connected to the first member 4 is symmetrical to, for example, the portion of the third member 6 connected to the second member 5.

[0057] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the second member 5 is provided with a first recess 57 through which the fixing member 8 passes. The first recess 57 may have the same configuration as the first recess 47. The first recess 57 has, for example, a female screw portion that engages with the male screw portion of the fixing member 8. The first recess 57 is provided, for example, as a through hole. The first recess 57 may also be provided as a bottomed groove having a female screw portion. Alternatively, the first recess 57 may be provided as a through hole without a female screw portion. In the latter case, the fixing member 8 only needs to have a male screw portion and a female screw portion. The third member 6 is provided with a fourth through hole 67B through which the fixing member 8 passes. The opening width W4 (see Figure 8) of the fourth through hole 67B in the width direction of the third member 6 is wider than the opening width W3 (see Figure 8) of the first recess 57 in the width direction of the third member 6. The opening width of the fourth through-hole 67B in the second direction DR2 is wider than the opening width of the first recess 57 in the second direction DR2. The second member 5 is further provided with a second recess 58. The third member 6 has a second claw 68B that is movable in the width direction of the third member 6 within the second recess 58 of the first member 4. The opening width W2 (see Figure 7) of the second recess 58 of the third member 6 in the width direction is greater than the length W1 (see Figure 7) of the second claw 68B in the same width direction. The opening width of the second recess 58 in the second direction DR2 is greater than the length of the second claw 68B in the second direction DR2. The opening width of the second recess 58 in the first direction DR1 is greater than the width of the second claw 68B in the first direction DR1.

[0058] In the third member 6, the first claw 68A is positioned outside the third through hole 67A. In the third member 6, the second claw 68B is positioned outside the fourth through hole 67B. The first claw 68A and the second claw 68B are positioned opposite each other with the third through hole 67A and the fourth through hole 67B in between. The first claw 68A and the third through hole 67A are symmetrical with respect to, for example, the fourth through hole 67B and the second claw 68B.

[0059] The difference W2-W1 between the widthwise opening width W2 of the third member 6 of the second recess 58 and the widthwise length W1 of the second claw 68B, and the difference W4-W3 between the widthwise opening width W4 of the third member 6 of the fourth through hole 67B and the widthwise opening width W3 of the third member 6 of the first recess 57, are set based on the allowable range of the dimensional difference between the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2. The difference W2-W1 may be equal to the maximum allowable value of the dimensional difference between the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2. In this case, the difference W4-W3 only needs to be greater than or equal to the maximum allowable value of the dimensional difference between the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2. It is also possible that the difference W4-W3 is equal to the maximum allowable value and the difference W2-W1 is greater than or equal to the maximum allowable value.

[0060] In the first position shown in Figure 7, the second claw 68B contacts one end of the second recess 58, which is located, for example, in the second direction DR2 on the opposite side of the second fixing portion 51. In the first position, the fixing member 8, which is passed through the fourth through hole 67B and the first recess 57, contacts the other end of the fourth through hole 67B, which is located, for example, in the second direction DR2 on the opposite side of the upper projection 65.

[0061] Similarly, when the third member 6 is in the first position, the first claw 68A contacts one end of the second recess 48, which is located on the opposite side of the first fixing portion 41 in the second direction DR2. When the third member 6 is in the first position, the fixing member 7, which is passed through the third through hole 67A and the first recess 47, contacts the other end of the third through hole 67A, which is located on the opposite side of the upper projection 65 in the second direction DR2.

[0062] In the second position shown in Figure 8, the second claw 68B contacts the other end of the second recess 58 located on the second fixing portion 51 side in the second direction DR2, for example. In the second position, the fixing member 8 passed through the fourth through hole 67B and the first recess 57 contacts one end of the fourth through hole 67B located on the upper projection 65 side in the second direction DR2, for example.

[0063] Similarly, when the third member 6 is in the second position, the first claw 68A contacts the other end of the second recess 48 located on the side of the first fixing portion 41 in the second direction DR2. When the third member 6 is in the second position, the fixing member 7 passed through the third through hole 67A and the first recess 47 contacts one end of the third through hole 67A located on the side of the upper projection 65 in the second direction DR2.

[0064] Next, the manufacturing method of the heat exchanger 101 will be described. Firstly, the lower heat exchanger 1 is fixed to the housing 120 (see Figure 1). Secondly, the first member 4 or the second member 5 is fixed to the lower heat exchanger 1. For example, the second fixing portion 51 of the second member 5 is fixed to the second end 12 of the lower heat exchanger 1, and then the first fixing portion 41 of the first member 4 is fixed to the first end 11 of the lower heat exchanger 1. Alternatively, the first fixing portion 41 of the first member 4 may be fixed to the first end 11 of the lower heat exchanger 1, and then the second fixing portion 51 of the second member 5 may be fixed to the second end 12 of the lower heat exchanger 1.

[0065] Thirdly, the third member 6 is temporarily fastened to the first member 4 and the second member 5, which are fixed to the lower heat exchanger 1. Preferably, as shown in Figure 7, the third member 6 is temporarily fastened to the first member 4 and the second member 5 in the first position. Preferably, the third member 6 is temporarily fastened when the lower projection 64 of the third member 6 is in contact with the first heat exchange section 10 of the lower heat exchanger 1 (see Figure 9).

[0066] Fourth, the upper heat exchanger 2 is positioned on the positioning member 3. The corner of the fourth end 22 of the upper heat exchanger 2 is connected to the connecting portion 52 of the second member 5, and the protrusion 23 of the third end 21 of the upper heat exchanger 2 is engaged with the engaging portion 42 of the first member 4. As a result, the upper heat exchanger 2 is positioned relative to the lower heat exchanger 1 in the first direction DR1. As shown in Figure 9, a state can be achieved in which the third portion 20C of the second heat exchange portion 20 of the upper heat exchanger 2 is spaced apart from the upper protrusion 65 of the third member 6 in the second direction DR2.

[0067] Fifth, the third member 6 is moved relative to the first member 4 and the second member 5 so that, as shown in Figure 10, the upper projection 65 of the third member 6 is in contact with the second heat exchange section 20 of the upper heat exchanger 2. In this state, the third member 6 is fixed to the first member 4 and the second member 5. In the second direction DR2, the upper heat exchanger 2 is positioned relative to the lower heat exchanger 1 by being sandwiched between the engaging portion 42 of the first member 4, the connecting portion 52 of the second member 5, and the upper projection 65 of the third member 6. The lower projection 64 of the third member 6 is positioned at a distance from the second heat exchange section 20 of the upper heat exchanger 2 in the second direction DR2.

[0068] In this way, the upper heat exchanger 2 is properly positioned relative to the lower heat exchanger 1 in the heat exchanger 101. Preferably, the upper heat exchanger 2 is further fixed to the housing by fixing members (not shown).

[0069] Next, we will explain the effects of the heat exchanger 101. In the heat exchanger 101, the heat exchange sections of the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2 each have a U-shaped section. The positioning member 3 can position the upper heat exchanger 2 relative to the lower heat exchanger 1 in both the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, even when there is a dimensional difference between the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2.

[0070] Specifically, in the heat exchanger 101, the third end portion 21 of the upper heat exchanger 2 engages with the engaging portion 42 of the first member 4 of the positioning member 3 fixed to the lower heat exchanger 1, thereby positioning it on the lower heat exchanger 1 via the positioning member 3. Furthermore, the fourth end portion 22 of the upper heat exchanger 2 connects with the connecting portion 52 of the second member 5 of the positioning member 3 fixed to the lower heat exchanger 1, thereby positioning it on the lower heat exchanger 1 via the positioning member 3. In this way, the upper heat exchanger 2 can be positioned relative to the lower heat exchanger 1 in the first direction DR1.

[0071] The above engagement and connection can be easily achieved even when there is a dimensional difference between the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2 in at least one of the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. For example, even if the dimension of the upper heat exchanger 2 in the second direction DR2 is larger than (see Figure 9) or smaller than the dimension of the lower heat exchanger 1 in the second direction DR2, the upper heat exchanger 2 can still be positioned relative to the lower heat exchanger 1 in the first direction DR1. Furthermore, even if the dimension of the upper heat exchanger 2 in the first direction DR1 is larger than the dimension of the lower heat exchanger 1 in the first direction DR1, the upper heat exchanger 2 can still be positioned relative to the lower heat exchanger 1 in the first direction DR1 by being compressed and deformed in the first direction DR1. At this time, the positioning member 3 can allow the central portion of the third portion 20C of the upper heat exchanger 2 in the first direction DR1 to deform so that it protrudes outward in the second direction DR2, and therefore does not hinder the deformation of the upper heat exchanger 2 (see Figure 9).

[0072] Furthermore, in the heat exchanger 101, the state can be switched from the state shown in Figure 9 to the state shown in Figure 10 by changing the fixing position of the third member 6 to the first member 4 and second member 5 which are fixed to the lower heat exchanger 1. As a result, the upper heat exchanger 2 can be positioned relative to the lower heat exchanger 1 even in the second direction DR2.

[0073] The above switching can be easily achieved even when there is a dimensional difference between the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2 in at least one of the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. For example, as shown in Figure 9, even if the central portion of the third part 20C of the upper heat exchanger 2 in the first direction DR1 protrudes outward by a distance D1 in the second direction DR2, the central portion of the third part 20C of the upper heat exchanger 2 can be positioned inside the upper projection 65 of the third member 6 in the second direction DR2, as long as the distance D1 is within the allowable range of the dimensional difference. In the example shown in Figure 9, the sum of the distance D1 and the distance D2 in the second direction DR2 between the upper projection 65 of the third member 6 and the central portion of the third part 20C of the upper heat exchanger 2 corresponds to the maximum allowable dimensional difference in the second direction DR2 between the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2.

[0074] In the heat exchanger 101, the positioning member 3 can suppress the displacement of the upper heat exchanger 2 relative to the lower heat exchanger 1 even when a force is applied to the upper heat exchanger 2 in a direction intersecting the vertical VDR. For example, even when the heat exchanger 101 vibrates during transportation, the positioning member 3 can suppress the displacement of the upper heat exchanger 2 relative to the lower heat exchanger 1.

[0075] In the heat exchanger 101, the engaging portion 42 of the first member 4 is provided as a recess that opens in the vertical direction VDR, and the fourth end portion 22 of the upper heat exchanger 2 is provided with a protrusion 23 that fits into the recess. Therefore, when the upper heat exchanger 2 is placed on the positioning member 3 fixed to the lower heat exchanger 1, the fourth end portion 22 of the upper heat exchanger 2 can be easily engaged with the engaging portion 42 of the first member 4.

[0076] Furthermore, the engaging portion 42 of the first member 4 may be provided as a protruding portion that extends upward, and the fourth end portion 22 of the upper heat exchanger 2 may be provided with a recess that fits into the protruding portion.

[0077] In the heat exchanger 101, the corner of the fourth end 22 of the upper heat exchanger 2 has a first surface 22A and a second surface 22B, and the connecting portion 52 of the second member 5 has a first connecting portion 52A that can contact the first surface 22A and a second connecting portion 52B that can contact the second surface 22B. In this way, when the third end 21 is engaged with the engaging portion 42 and the fourth end 22 is connected to the connecting portion 52, movement of the upper heat exchanger 2 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction VDR can be suppressed.

[0078] In the heat exchanger 101, multiple through holes 43H1, 43H2, 53H1, 53H2, 63H1, and 63H2 are provided in each of the intermediate portions 43, 53, and 63 of the first member 4, the second member 5, and the third member 6, respectively, so that the positioning member 3 does not impair the drainage of the upper heat exchanger 2. In the heat exchanger 101, for example, an increase in ventilation resistance and a decrease in performance due to the accumulation of condensation water in the upper heat exchanger 2 can be suppressed.

[0079] In the heat exchanger 101, multiple through holes 44H, 54H, 64H, 65H are provided in each of the following: a pair of lower protrusions 44A, 44B of the first member 4, a pair of lower protrusions 54A, 54B of the second member 5, and the lower protrusion 64 and upper protrusion 65 of the third member 6. Therefore, an increase in ventilation resistance and a decrease in performance caused by the positioning member 3 can be suppressed.

[0080] In the heat exchanger 101, the opening width in the second direction DR2 of the third through-hole 67A and fourth through-hole 67B of the third member 6 is wider than the opening width in the second direction DR2 of the first recesses 47 and 57 of the first member 4 and the second member 5, respectively, and each of the multiple claws 68A and 68B of the third member 6 is movable in the second direction DR2 inside the second recesses 48 and 58 of the first member 4 and the second member 5. With such a positioning member 3, it is easy to adjust the fixed position of the third member 6 relative to the first member 4 and the second member 5.

[0081] <Variation> In the heat exchanger 101, the positioning member 3 only needs to include at least a first member 4 and a second member 5. The positioning member 3 does not need to include a third member 6. As described above, the first member 4 and the second member 5 can appropriately connect the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger in at least the first direction DR1, even when there is a dimensional difference between them. Furthermore, if the second member 5 has a first connecting portion 52A and a second connecting portion 52B, the first member 4 and the second member 5 can suppress misalignment between the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger in the second direction DR2, even when there is a dimensional difference between them.

[0082] Figures 11 to 13 show modified examples of the heat exchanger 101. Note that the upper heat exchanger is not shown in Figures 11 to 13.

[0083] As shown in Figure 11, the heat exchange sections of the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger may have an L-shaped section instead of a U-shaped section. In this case as well, the positioning member 3 may include at least a first member 4 and a second member 5 that are fixed to the first end 11 and the second end 12 of the lower heat exchanger 1 and can be connected to the third end and the fourth end of the upper heat exchanger 2. Preferably, the second member 5 has a first connecting portion 52A and a second connecting portion 52B. Preferably, the positioning member 3 further includes a third member 6. In the positioning member 3, the second member 5 may be provided integrally as the same member as the third member 6.

[0084] As shown in Figure 12, the heat exchange portion of each of the lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger may have an I-shaped (straight) portion instead of a U-shaped portion. The positioning member 3 may include at least a first member 4 and a second member 5. The positioning member 3 is fixed to the first end 11 and the second end 12 of the lower heat exchanger 1, and is engageable with the third end of the upper heat exchanger 2 and connectable to the fourth end. Preferably, the second member 5 has a first connecting portion 52A and a second connecting portion 52B. The second member 5 may further have a connecting portion 59 that can be connected to a corner different from the connecting portion 52 at the fourth end 22 of the upper heat exchanger 2. The positioning member 3 may further include a third member 6. In the positioning member 3, the first member 4 and the second member 5 may be provided integrally as the same member as the third member 6.

[0085] As shown in Figure 13, in the positioning member 3, the first member 4 may have a connecting portion 49 that can be connected to the third end 21 of the upper heat exchanger 2 instead of the engaging portion 42. The connecting portion 49 may be located on the same side as the connecting portion 52 of the second member 5 in the width direction intersecting the extending direction of the heat transfer tubes. In this case, preferably, the second member 5 further has a connecting portion 59 that can be connected to a different corner of the fourth end 22 of the upper heat exchanger 2 than the connecting portion 52. The first member 4 may also have a connecting portion that faces the connecting portion 49 in the second direction DR2. The lower heat exchanger 1 and the upper heat exchanger 2, which have I-shaped portions, can also be positioned relative to each other by such a positioning member 3.

[0086] [Note] The various aspects of this disclosure are summarized in the appendix. <Note 1> The lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger are arranged side by side in the vertical direction, The upper heat exchanger is provided with a positioning member for positioning it relative to the lower heat exchanger, Each of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger includes heat transfer tubes extending in a direction intersecting the vertical direction, The positioning member includes a first member and a second member, The first member has a fixing portion fixed to one end of the lower heat exchanger in the extending direction of the heat transfer tube, and an engaging portion that engages with one end of the upper heat exchanger in the extending direction. The second member is a heat exchanger having a fixed portion fixed to the other end of the lower heat exchanger in the extending direction and a connecting portion connected to the corner of the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the extending direction. <Note 2> The engagement portion of the first member and the one end of the upper heat exchanger in the extending direction are provided with a recess that opens in the vertical direction. The heat exchanger according to Appendix 1, wherein the engaging portion of the first member and the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the extending direction are provided with a protrusion that fits into the recess. <Note 3> The corner portion of the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the extending direction has a first surface facing the extending direction and a second surface connected to the first surface and extending in the vertical direction and along the extending direction. The heat exchanger according to Appendix 1, wherein the connecting portion of the second member has a first connecting portion that can contact the first surface and a second connecting portion that can contact the second surface. <Note 4> The lower heat exchanger includes a heat exchange section having at least a portion of the heat transfer tubes and fins connected to at least a portion of the heat transfer tubes, and a first end and a second end connected to both ends of the heat exchange section in the extending direction. The upper heat exchanger includes a heat exchange section having at least a portion of the heat transfer tubes and fins connected to at least a portion of the heat transfer tubes, and a third end and a fourth end connected to both ends of the heat exchange section in the extending direction. The fixing portion of the first member is fixed to the first end of the lower heat exchanger. The engagement portion of the first member engages with the third end of the upper heat exchanger, The fixing portion of the second member is fixed to the second end of the lower heat exchanger. The connection portion of the second member is connected to the fourth end of the upper heat exchanger, and is a heat exchanger as described in any one of appendices 1 to 3. <Note 5> Each of the first member and the second member further includes an intermediate portion located in the vertical direction between the heat exchange portion of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger, The heat exchanger according to Appendix 4, wherein each of the first member and the second member is provided with a plurality of through holes that penetrate the intermediate portion in the vertical direction. <Note 6> Each of the first and second members further includes an intermediate portion located in the vertical direction between the heat exchange portions of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger, and a pair of downward protrusions projecting in the vertical direction from both ends of the intermediate portion in the width direction intersecting the vertical direction and the extending direction, The heat exchanger according to Appendix 4, wherein each of the first member and the second member is provided with a plurality of through holes that penetrate the pair of lower protrusions in the width direction. <Note 7> The positioning member further includes a third member connecting the first member and the second member, and a plurality of fixing members for fixing the third member to the first member and the second member, The third member includes an intermediate portion located between the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger in the vertical direction, a lower projection extending downward from one end of the intermediate portion in the width direction intersecting the vertical direction and the extending direction, and an upper projection extending upward from the other end of the intermediate portion in the width direction. The fixing position of the third member relative to the first member and the second member can be changed in the width direction. The heat exchanger according to any one of the appendices 1 to 3, wherein when the upper protrusion is in contact with the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the width direction, the lower protrusion can face one end of the lower heat exchanger in the width direction. <Note 8> The lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger are arranged side by side in the vertical direction, The upper heat exchanger is provided with a positioning member for positioning it relative to the lower heat exchanger, Each of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger includes heat transfer tubes extending in a direction intersecting the vertical direction, The positioning member includes a first member, a second member, a third member connecting the first member and the second member, and a plurality of fixing members for fixing the third member to the first member and the second member, The first member has a fixing portion fixed to one end of the lower heat exchanger in the extending direction of the heat transfer tube, and a connecting portion that can be connected to the corner of one end of the upper heat exchanger in the extending direction. The second member has a fixing portion fixed to the other end of the lower heat exchanger in the extending direction, and a connecting portion that can be connected to the corner of the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the extending direction. The third member includes an intermediate portion located between the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger in the vertical direction, a lower projection extending downward from one end of the intermediate portion in the width direction intersecting the vertical direction and the extending direction, and an upper projection extending upward from the other end of the intermediate portion in the width direction. The fixing position of the third member relative to the first member and the second member can be changed in the width direction. When the fixing portion of each of the first member and the second member is fixed to the lower heat exchanger, at least one of the connecting portions of each of the first member and the second member is connectable to the corner of the upper heat exchanger, and the upper protrusion is in contact with the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the width direction. A heat exchanger in which, when the upper protrusion is in contact with the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the width direction, the lower protrusion can face one end of the lower heat exchanger in the width direction. <Note 9> Each of the first member and the second member is provided with a first recess through which each of the plurality of fixing members passes. The third member is provided with through holes through which each of the plurality of fixing members passes, The widthwise opening width of the through hole in the third member is wider than the widthwise opening width of the first recess. Each of the first member and the second member is further provided with a second recess, The heat exchanger according to Appendix 7, wherein the third member has a plurality of claws that can move in the width direction within the second recess of each of the first member and the second member. <Note 10> The heat exchanger according to Appendix 9, wherein the plurality of claws in the third member are positioned outside the through-holes of the third member. <Note 11> The heat exchanger according to Appendix 7, wherein the third member is provided with a plurality of through holes that penetrate the intermediate portion in the vertical direction. <Note 12> The heat exchanger as described in Appendix 7, wherein the third member is provided with a plurality of lower through holes that penetrate the lower protrusion in the width direction and a plurality of upper through holes that penetrate the upper protrusion in the width direction. <Note 13> Each of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger includes a U-shaped portion that has a U-shape when viewed from the vertical direction. The U-shaped portion of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger each includes a first portion and a second portion facing each other in a first direction intersecting the vertical direction, and a third portion extending between the first portion and the second portion. The first member is connected to the first portion of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger, The second member is connected to the second portion of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger, The heat exchanger described in Appendix 7, wherein the third member is connected to the third portion of each of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger. <Note 14> A heat exchanger described in any one of the appendices 1 to 3, The system comprises a housing that accommodates the heat exchanger, The lower heat exchanger is fixed to the housing, The outdoor unit is such that the upper heat exchanger is fixed to the lower heat exchanger via the positioning member. <Note 15> An outdoor unit including a heat exchanger as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 3, It includes an indoor unit that includes an indoor heat exchanger, The outdoor unit further includes a housing that accommodates the heat exchanger, The lower heat exchanger is fixed to the housing, An air conditioning system in which the upper heat exchanger is fixed to the lower heat exchanger via the positioning member.

[0087] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of this application is indicated by the claims and not by the foregoing description, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended to be included. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 1 Lower heat exchanger, 2 Upper heat exchanger, 3 Positioning member, 4 First member, 5 Second member, 6 Third member, 7, 8, 45, 55 Fixing members, 10, 20 Heat exchange section, 10A, 20A First section, 10B, 20B Second section, 10C, 20C Third section, 11 First end, 12 Second end, 12A Third surface, 12B Fourth surface, 21 Third end, 22 Fourth end, 22A First surface, 22B Second surface, 23 Protrusion, 41 First fixing section, 42 Engaging section, 43, 53, 63 Intermediate section, 43H1, 43H2, 44H, 53H1, 53H2, 54H, 63H1, 63H2, 64H, 65H Through hole, 44A, 44B, 54A, 54B, 64 Lower protrusion, 47, 57 First recess, 48, 58 Second recess, 51 Second fixing part, 52, 59 Connection part, 52A First connection part, 52B Second connection part, 65 Upper protrusion, 67A Third through hole, 67B Fourth through hole, 68A, 68B Claw, 101 Heat exchanger, 120 Housing, 200 Outdoor unit.

Claims

1. The lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger are arranged side by side in the vertical direction, The upper heat exchanger is provided with a positioning member for positioning it relative to the lower heat exchanger, Each of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger includes heat transfer tubes extending in a direction intersecting the vertical direction, The positioning member includes a first member and a second member, The first member has a fixing portion fixed to one end of the lower heat exchanger in the extending direction of the heat transfer tube, and an engaging portion that engages with one end of the upper heat exchanger in the extending direction. The second member is a heat exchanger having a fixed portion fixed to the other end of the lower heat exchanger in the extending direction and a connecting portion connected to the corner of the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the extending direction.

2. The engagement portion of the first member and the one end of the upper heat exchanger in the extending direction are provided with a recess that opens in the vertical direction. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, wherein the engaging portion of the first member and the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the extending direction are provided with a protrusion that fits into the recess.

3. The corner portion of the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the extending direction has a first surface facing the extending direction and a second surface connected to the first surface and extending in the vertical direction and along the extending direction. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, wherein the connecting portion of the second member has a first connecting portion that can contact the first surface and a second connecting portion that can contact the second surface.

4. The lower heat exchanger includes a heat exchange section having at least a portion of the heat transfer tubes and fins connected to at least a portion of the heat transfer tubes, and a first end and a second end connected to both ends of the heat exchange section in the extending direction. The upper heat exchanger includes a heat exchange section having at least a portion of the heat transfer tubes and fins connected to at least a portion of the heat transfer tubes, and a third end and a fourth end connected to both ends of the heat exchange section in the extending direction. The fixing portion of the first member is fixed to the first end of the lower heat exchanger. The engagement portion of the first member engages with the third end of the upper heat exchanger, The fixing portion of the second member is fixed to the second end of the lower heat exchanger. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the connecting portion of the second member is connected to the fourth end of the upper heat exchanger.

5. Each of the first member and the second member further includes an intermediate portion located in the vertical direction between the heat exchange portion of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger, The heat exchanger according to claim 4, wherein each of the first member and the second member is provided with a plurality of through holes that penetrate the intermediate portion in the vertical direction.

6. Each of the first member and the second member further includes an intermediate portion located in the vertical direction between the heat exchange portions of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger, and a pair of downward protrusions projecting in the vertical direction from both ends of the intermediate portion in the width direction intersecting the vertical direction and the extending direction, The heat exchanger according to claim 4, wherein each of the first member and the second member is provided with a plurality of through holes that penetrate the pair of lower protrusions in the width direction.

7. The positioning member further includes a third member connecting the first member and the second member, and a plurality of fixing members for fixing the third member to the first member and the second member, The third member includes an intermediate portion located between the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger in the vertical direction, a lower projection extending downward from one end of the intermediate portion in the width direction intersecting the vertical direction and the extending direction, and an upper projection extending upward from the other end of the intermediate portion in the width direction. The fixing position of the third member relative to the first member and the second member can be changed in the width direction. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when the upper protrusion is in contact with the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the width direction, the lower protrusion can face one end of the lower heat exchanger in the width direction.

8. The lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger are arranged side by side in the vertical direction, The upper heat exchanger is provided with a positioning member for positioning it relative to the lower heat exchanger, Each of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger includes heat transfer tubes extending in a direction intersecting the vertical direction, The positioning member includes a first member, a second member, a third member connecting the first member and the second member, and a plurality of fixing members for fixing the third member to the first member and the second member, The first member has a fixed portion fixed to one end of the lower heat exchanger in the extending direction of the heat transfer tube, and a connecting portion that can be connected to the corner of one end of the upper heat exchanger in the extending direction. The second member has a fixed portion fixed to the other end of the lower heat exchanger in the extending direction, and a connecting portion that can be connected to the corner of the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the extending direction. The third member includes an intermediate portion located between the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger in the vertical direction, a lower projection extending downward from one end of the intermediate portion in the width direction intersecting the vertical direction and the extending direction, and an upper projection extending upward from the other end of the intermediate portion in the width direction. The fixing position of the third member relative to the first member and the second member can be changed in the width direction. When the fixing portion of each of the first member and the second member is fixed to the lower heat exchanger, at least one of the connecting portions of each of the first member and the second member is connectable to the corner of the upper heat exchanger, and the upper protrusion is in contact with the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the width direction. A heat exchanger in which, when the upper protrusion is in contact with the other end of the upper heat exchanger in the width direction, the lower protrusion can face one end of the lower heat exchanger in the width direction.

9. Each of the first member and the second member is provided with a first recess through which each of the plurality of fixing members passes. The third member is provided with through holes through which each of the plurality of fixing members passes, The widthwise opening width of the through hole in the third member is wider than the widthwise opening width of the first recess. Each of the first member and the second member is further provided with a second recess, The heat exchanger according to claim 7, wherein the third member has a plurality of claws that can move in the width direction within the second recess of each of the first member and the second member.

10. The heat exchanger according to claim 9, wherein in the third member, the plurality of claws are arranged outside the through-hole of the third member.

11. The heat exchanger according to claim 7, wherein the third member is provided with a plurality of through holes that penetrate the intermediate portion in the vertical direction.

12. The heat exchanger according to claim 7, wherein the third member is provided with a plurality of lower through holes that penetrate the lower protrusion in the width direction and a plurality of upper through holes that penetrate the upper protrusion in the width direction.

13. Each of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger includes a U-shaped portion that has a U-shape when viewed from the vertical direction. The U-shaped portion of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger each includes a first portion and a second portion facing each other in a first direction intersecting the vertical direction, and a third portion extending between the first portion and the second portion. The first member is connected to the first portion of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger, The second member is connected to the second portion of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger, The heat exchanger according to claim 7, wherein the third member is connected to the third portion of the lower heat exchanger and the upper heat exchanger, respectively.

14. A heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The system comprises a housing that accommodates the heat exchanger, The lower heat exchanger is fixed to the housing, The outdoor unit is such that the upper heat exchanger is fixed to the lower heat exchanger via the positioning member.

15. An outdoor unit including a heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 3, It includes an indoor unit that includes an indoor heat exchanger, The outdoor unit further includes a housing that accommodates the heat exchanger, The lower heat exchanger is fixed to the housing, An air conditioning system in which the upper heat exchanger is fixed to the lower heat exchanger via the positioning member.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Bracket and refrigeration cycle device

    JP2020060353A