Heat exchangers, control methods for heat exchangers, and heat pump systems

Abstract

This application relates to the field of heat exchanger technology, disclosing a heat exchanger comprising: multiple heat exchange units connected in parallel; and a flow distribution device arranged side-by-side along the airflow direction, having multiple flow distribution ports, with each heat exchange unit connected to one of the flow distribution ports; and, based on the heat exchange capacity of each heat exchange unit, the flow distribution device allocates refrigerant flow to the corresponding heat exchange unit. By allocating more refrigerant to the heat exchange units on the windward side and less refrigerant to the heat exchange units on the leeward side, the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger is improved. This application also discloses a control method for a heat exchanger and a heat pump system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of heat exchanger technology, such as a heat exchanger, a control method for a heat exchanger, and a heat pump system. Background Technology

[0002] In scenarios requiring large heat exchange (above 5kW), multi-split air conditioning systems or multi-split air conditioning systems are commonly used. Multiple heat exchangers are connected in parallel to the main refrigerant circulation path. The refrigerant exchanges heat in each of the multiple heat exchangers before returning to the main circulation path, and each heat exchanger has its own independent air supply system. However, multi-split air conditioning systems or multi-split air conditioning systems have complex overall structures and are costly.

[0003] In related technologies, to meet the heat exchange requirements, the number of rows of heat exchange tubes in the same heat exchanger is increased, thereby increasing the heat exchange area, and an air supply system is used to exchange heat between the air and the heat exchanger. This structure is simple, low-cost, and can meet the needs of large heat exchange.

[0004] In the process of implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, at least the following problems were found in the related art:

[0005] A single air supply system supplies air to a heat exchanger with multiple rows of heat exchange tubes. The airflow received by the front rows of heat exchange tubes affects the airflow received by the rear rows, especially when there are many rows. This results in a higher heat exchange capacity for the front rows (those closest to the windward side) and a lower heat exchange capacity for the rear rows (those closest to the leeward side). Since the refrigerant flow rate is the same for all rows, the refrigerant has lower heat exchange efficiency when flowing through the rear rows, leading to a decrease in the overall heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed embodiments, a brief summary is given below. This summary is not intended as a general commentary, nor is it intended to identify key / important components or describe the scope of protection of these embodiments, but rather as a prelude to the detailed description that follows.

[0007] This disclosure provides a heat exchanger, a control method for the heat exchanger, and a heat pump system, which solves the problem of low heat exchange efficiency in heat exchangers with multiple rows of heat exchange tubes.

[0008] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger includes:

[0009] Multiple heat exchange units are connected in parallel, and the multiple heat exchange units are arranged side by side along the airflow direction;

[0010] The flow distribution device has multiple flow distribution ports, with each heat exchange unit connected to one of the flow distribution ports; and according to the heat exchange capacity of each heat exchange unit, the flow distribution device distributes refrigerant flow to the corresponding heat exchange unit.

[0011] Optionally, the refrigerant flow rate m of each heat exchange unit is determined according to the following formula:

[0012]

[0013] Where k is the heat transfer coefficient of the heat exchange unit, A is the heat transfer area of ​​the heat exchange unit, c is the specific heat capacity of the refrigerant, and Δt is the inlet and outlet temperature difference of the heat exchange unit. m The logarithmic mean temperature difference of the heat exchange unit, and

[0014]

[0015] Wherein, △t max Δt is the maximum value of the inlet and outlet temperature difference of the heat exchange unit. min This is the minimum temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of the heat exchange unit.

[0016] Optionally, a flow divider is provided at the refrigerant inlet and refrigerant outlet of the heat exchanger, so that when the refrigerant flows in from either end of the heat exchanger, it can be distributed to multiple heat exchange units through the corresponding flow divider.

[0017] Optionally, the refrigerant inlet and refrigerant outlet of the heat exchanger are located on opposite sides of the heat exchanger to shorten the refrigerant's travel distance within the heat exchanger.

[0018] Optionally, the heat exchange unit includes multiple heat exchange tube groups, and the multiple heat exchange tube groups are connected to each other through a gas collecting pipe;

[0019] The gas collecting pipe is equipped with a mesh element, which is used to break up the flowing air bubbles and droplets through the mesh to inhibit the phase separation of the refrigerant in the gas collecting pipe.

[0020] Optionally, the heat exchange unit includes multiple heat exchange tube groups connected in series;

[0021] At least one pair of adjacent heat exchange units are arranged crosswise, such that a portion of the heat exchange tubes of the heat exchange unit closer to the windward side is located on the leeward side, and a portion of the heat exchange tubes of the heat exchange unit closer to the leeward side is located on the windward side.

[0022] Optionally, the heat exchange unit includes multiple parallel heat exchange tube groups;

[0023] Furthermore, the on / off state of each heat exchange tube assembly is independently controlled to adjust the heat exchange area of ​​the heat exchange unit.

[0024] Optionally, the heat exchange areas of the multiple heat exchange tube assemblies in the same heat exchange unit are different.

[0025] Optionally, some of the heat exchange units include multiple heat exchange tube groups connected in series and located near the windward side of the heat exchanger; and,

[0026] Some of the heat exchange units include multiple parallel heat exchange tube groups, located near the leeward side of the heat exchanger.

[0027] In some embodiments, the control method for a heat exchanger includes the heat exchanger described in any of the above embodiments, and the control method includes:

[0028] Obtain the heat exchange capacity of each heat exchange unit;

[0029] The flow distribution device allocates refrigerant flow to the corresponding heat exchange unit based on the heat exchange capacity.

[0030] Optionally, the heat exchange unit includes multiple parallel heat exchange tube groups.

[0031] Before obtaining the heat exchange capacity of each heat exchange unit, the process includes:

[0032] Obtain the position information of each heat exchange unit;

[0033] Based on the location information, a strategy for controlling the on / off state of the heat exchange tube group is selected, thereby adjusting the heat exchange capacity of the heat exchange unit.

[0034] Optionally, the location information of the heat exchange unit includes proximity to the windward side and proximity to the leeward side.

[0035] Optionally, the location information of the heat exchange unit includes proximity to the leeward side.

[0036] The strategy for controlling the on / off state of the heat exchanger tube group includes:

[0037] Obtain the wind speed information of the area corresponding to each heat exchanger tube group;

[0038] The on / off state of multiple heat exchanger tube groups is controlled based on the wind speed information.

[0039] Optionally, controlling the on / off state of the multiple heat exchanger tube groups based on the wind speed information includes:

[0040] When the wind speed in a region corresponding to a certain heat exchange tube group is less than a preset wind speed, the heat exchange tube group is blocked.

[0041] Optionally, the heat exchanger is supplied with air by an axial flow fan on its windward side; the heat exchange unit includes three heat exchange tube groups, which correspond to the two sides and the middle of the axial flow fan air field, respectively.

[0042] When the wind speed in the area corresponding to the heat exchange tube group in the middle is less than 1 / 2 of the wind speed in the area corresponding to the heat exchange tube group on either side, the heat exchange tube group in the middle is blocked.

[0043] Optionally, the location information of the heat exchange unit includes proximity to the windward side.

[0044] The strategy for controlling the on / off state of the heat exchanger tube group includes:

[0045] Obtain the inlet and outlet temperature difference for each heat exchanger tube assembly;

[0046] The on / off state of multiple heat exchanger tube groups is controlled based on the inlet and outlet temperature difference.

[0047] Optionally, controlling the on / off state of multiple heat exchanger tube groups based on the inlet / outlet temperature difference includes:

[0048] When the inlet and outlet temperature difference of a certain heat exchange tube group is less than a preset temperature difference, the heat exchange tube group is blocked.

[0049] In some embodiments, the heat pump system includes the heat exchanger described in any of the above embodiments.

[0050] The heat exchanger, control method for the heat exchanger, and heat pump system provided in this disclosure can achieve the following technical effects:

[0051] This configuration, featuring multiple heat exchange units, is suitable for applications requiring large heat exchange volumes. These units are arranged side-by-side along the airflow direction, and a single air supply system facilitates heat exchange between the air and the heat exchanger. In this arrangement, the heat exchange capacity of the units gradually decreases from the windward side to the leeward side of the heat exchanger, resulting in lower heat exchange efficiency for the units on the leeward side. Therefore, based on the heat exchange capacity of each unit, a flow distribution device allocates refrigerant flow to the corresponding unit, distributing more refrigerant to the windward side and less to the leeward side, thereby improving the heat exchanger's efficiency.

[0052] The above general description and the description below are exemplary and illustrative only and are not intended to limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0053] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. These illustrations and drawings do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements having the same reference numerals in the drawings are shown as similar elements. The drawings are not to be scaled. And wherein:

[0054] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the heat pump system provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0055] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the heat exchanger provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0056] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the heat exchanger provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0057] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the mesh component provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0058] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the cross arrangement of type A heat exchange units provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0059] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of different types of heat exchange unit layouts provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0060] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of different types of heat exchange unit layouts provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0061] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange tube assembly of the type B heat exchange unit provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0062] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a partial heat exchange tube assembly of the type B heat exchange unit provided in this embodiment being blocked;

[0063] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a partial heat exchange tube assembly of the type B heat exchange unit provided in this embodiment being blocked;

[0064] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a partial heat exchange tube assembly of the type B heat exchange unit provided in this embodiment being blocked;

[0065] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a partial heat exchange tube assembly of the type B heat exchange unit provided in this embodiment being blocked;

[0066] Figure 13 This is a schematic flowchart of a control method for a heat exchanger provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0067] Figure 14 This is a schematic flowchart of another control method for a heat exchanger provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0068] Figure 15 This is a schematic flowchart of another control method for a heat exchanger provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0069] Figure 16 This is a schematic flowchart of another control method for a heat exchanger provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0070] Figure label:

[0071] 100: Outdoor heat exchanger; 110: Heat exchange unit; 111: Type A heat exchange unit; 112: Type B heat exchange unit; 113: Gas collection pipe; 114: Mesh component; 115: Three-way solenoid valve; 120: Flow divider; 130: Compressor; 140: Axial fan; 150: Indoor heat exchanger; 160: Throttling device. Detailed Implementation

[0072] To provide a more detailed understanding of the features and technical content of the embodiments of this disclosure, the implementation of the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this disclosure. In the following technical description, for ease of explanation, several details are used to provide a full understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, one or more embodiments may still be implemented without these details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices may be simplified in their depiction to simplify the drawings.

[0073] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this disclosure are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate for the embodiments of this disclosure described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0074] In this disclosure, the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," "middle," "outer," "front," and "rear," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for better description of the embodiments of this disclosure and their implementations, and are not intended to limit the indicated devices, elements, or components to having a specific orientation, or to require them to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Furthermore, some of the aforementioned terms may be used to indicate other meanings besides orientation or positional relationship; for example, the term "upper" may in some cases indicate a dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in the embodiments of this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0075] Furthermore, the terms "set up," "connect," and "fix" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or it can be an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0076] Unless otherwise stated, the term "multiple" means two or more.

[0077] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the character " / " indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B means: A or B.

[0078] The term "and / or" describes an association between objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B means: A or B, or A and B.

[0079] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in the present disclosure can be combined with each other.

[0080] Combination Figure 1-12 As shown, this embodiment of the present disclosure provides a heat exchanger, including a flow distribution device 120 and a plurality of heat exchange units 110. The plurality of heat exchange units 110 are connected in parallel and arranged side-by-side along the airflow direction. The flow distribution device 120 has a plurality of flow distribution ports, and each heat exchange unit 110 is connected to one flow distribution port. The flow distribution device 120 distributes refrigerant flow to the corresponding heat exchange unit 110 according to the heat exchange capacity of each heat exchange unit 110.

[0081] The heat exchanger provided in this embodiment, having multiple heat exchange units 110, is suitable for scenarios with large heat exchange volumes. The multiple heat exchange units 110 are arranged side-by-side along the airflow direction, and a single air supply system can be used to exchange heat between the air and the heat exchanger. In this arrangement, the heat exchange volume of the multiple heat exchange units 110 gradually decreases from the windward side to the leeward side of the heat exchanger, resulting in lower heat exchange efficiency for the multiple heat exchange units 110 on the leeward side. Therefore, based on the heat exchange volume of each heat exchange unit 110, the flow distribution device 120 allocates refrigerant flow to the corresponding heat exchange unit 110, allocating more refrigerant to the windward side and less refrigerant to the leeward side, thereby improving the heat exchanger's efficiency.

[0082] Optionally, the refrigerant flow rate m of each heat exchange unit 110 is determined according to the following formula:

[0083]

[0084] Where k is the heat transfer coefficient of heat exchange unit 110, A is the heat transfer area of ​​heat exchange unit 110, c is the specific heat capacity of refrigerant, and Δt is the inlet and outlet temperature difference of heat exchange unit 110. m The logarithmic mean temperature difference of heat exchange unit 110, and

[0085]

[0086] Wherein, △t maxΔt represents the maximum inlet and outlet temperature difference of heat exchange unit 110. min This is the minimum temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of heat exchange unit 110.

[0087] In this embodiment, the heat transfer coefficients of heat exchange units 110 at different locations and with different heat transfer areas are different, and these can be obtained through simulation or experimental testing.

[0088] Optionally, a flow divider 120 is provided at the refrigerant inlet and refrigerant outlet of the heat exchanger, so that when the refrigerant flows in from either end of the heat exchanger, it can be distributed to multiple heat exchange units 110 through the corresponding flow divider 120.

[0089] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 As shown, the flow divider 120 located at the refrigerant inlet is called the first flow divider, and the flow divider 120 located at the refrigerant outlet is called the second flow divider. When the refrigerant enters the heat exchanger from the refrigerant inlet, the first flow divider acts as a flow divider, distributing the refrigerant to multiple heat exchange units 110; the second flow divider does not divide the flow, and the refrigerant after heat exchange flows out through the second flow divider. When the refrigerant enters the heat exchanger from the refrigerant outlet, the second flow divider acts as a flow divider, distributing the refrigerant to multiple heat exchange units 110; the first flow divider does not divide the flow, and the refrigerant after heat exchange flows out through the first flow divider.

[0090] Optionally, the refrigerant inlet and refrigerant outlet of the heat exchanger are located on opposite sides of the heat exchanger to shorten the refrigerant's travel distance within the heat exchanger.

[0091] In this embodiment, when both the refrigerant inlet and outlet are located on the same side of the heat exchanger, the refrigerant always needs a journey back to the refrigerant outlet on the same side, such as... Figure 2 As shown by the thick lines in the diagram. This embodiment uses a configuration where the refrigerant inlet and outlet are located on opposite sides of the heat exchanger, as shown in the diagram. Figure 3 As shown, compared to setting it on the same side, it shortens the refrigerant's travel distance, reduces the pressure drop of the heat exchanger, and thus improves the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger.

[0092] Optionally, the heat exchange unit 110 includes multiple heat exchange tube groups, and the multiple heat exchange tube groups are connected through a gas collecting pipe 113; a mesh element 114 is provided inside the gas collecting pipe 113, and the mesh element 114 is used to break up the flowing bubbles and droplets through the mesh to inhibit the phase separation of the refrigerant inside the gas collecting pipe 113.

[0093] In this embodiment, as Figure 4As shown, the mesh element 114 can be made of wire mesh or perforated plate, and multiple mesh elements 114 can be installed inside the gas collecting pipe 113. When the refrigerant flows through the mesh element 114 inside the gas collecting pipe 113, the small holes of the mesh element 114 break up larger bubbles and droplets, causing the flow pattern of the refrigerant inside the gas collecting pipe 113 to change into a stable mist flow, thereby effectively suppressing the phase separation phenomenon inside the gas collecting pipe 113 and enabling each heat exchange tube group to obtain a more stable flow ratio.

[0094] Optionally, the heat exchange unit 110 includes multiple heat exchange tube assemblies connected in series. This type of heat exchange unit 110 is called a type A heat exchange unit 111. At least one pair of adjacent type A heat exchange units 111 are arranged crosswise, such that part of the heat exchange tube assembly of the type A heat exchange unit 111 on the windward side is located on the leeward side, and part of the heat exchange tube assembly of the type A heat exchange unit 111 on the leeward side is located on the windward side.

[0095] In this embodiment, the heat exchange unit 110 near the windward side should preferably be a type A heat exchange unit 111. Since the airflow is larger on the windward side and smaller on the leeward side, the two type A heat exchange units 111 near the windward side are arranged in a cross-flow configuration. Specifically, some heat exchange tubes of the type A heat exchange unit 111 on the windward side receive a larger airflow than others; similarly, some heat exchange tubes of the type A heat exchange unit 111 on the leeward side receive a larger airflow than others. This arrangement helps to balance the heat exchange of the two cross-flow arranged type A heat exchange units 111. Combined with the flow distribution function of the flow distribution device 120, the refrigerant flow rates allocated to the two type A heat exchange units 111 are similar.

[0096] Optionally, the heat exchange areas of multiple heat exchange tube assemblies in the same type A heat exchange unit 111 are the same.

[0097] For example, such as Figure 5 As shown, the heat exchanger includes two parallel A-type heat exchange units 111, referred to as A1 and A2. Heat exchange unit A1 includes heat exchange tube assemblies 1a and 2a, while heat exchange unit A2 includes heat exchange tube assemblies 3a and 4a. Heat exchange tube assembly 1a is located on the windward side, heat exchange tube assembly 2a on the leeward side, heat exchange tube assembly 3a on the windward side, and heat exchange tube assembly 4a on the leeward side. Furthermore, heat exchange tube assemblies 1a and 2a have the same heat exchange area, and heat exchange tube assemblies 3a and 4a have the same heat exchange area. In this way, the two A-type heat exchange units 111 are arranged in a cross configuration, and the heat exchange areas of the two heat exchange tube assemblies within the same A-type heat exchange unit 111 are identical. This makes the heat exchange of the two A-type heat exchange units 111 more balanced.

[0098] Optionally, the heat exchange unit 110 includes multiple parallel heat exchange tube assemblies, and this type of heat exchange unit 110 is called a type B heat exchange unit 112; and the on / off state of each heat exchange tube assembly is independently controlled to adjust the heat exchange area of ​​the type B heat exchange unit 112. Here, after the heat exchange area changes, the heat transfer coefficient and the inlet / outlet temperature difference of the type B heat exchange unit 112 will also change synchronously, and the flow distribution device 120 will redistribute the refrigerant flow to the type B heat exchange unit 112 according to the changed heat exchange area and related parameters.

[0099] In this embodiment, as Figure 6 As shown, the heat exchange unit 110 near the leeward side should preferably be a type B heat exchange unit 112. The airflow received by the heat exchange unit 110 on the leeward side is less than that on the windward side. Even if the heat exchange area on the leeward side and the windward side are the same, the heat exchange on the leeward side will be less than that on the windward side, and this will also reduce the overall heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger. When using a type B heat exchange unit 112, blocking part of the heat exchange tube assembly of the type B heat exchange unit 112 can reduce the heat exchange area. Furthermore, the flow distribution device 120 reallocates the refrigerant flow to the type B heat exchange unit 112 according to the changed heat exchange area and related parameters, thereby effectively improving the overall heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger.

[0100] Optionally, the heat exchanger may include both type A heat exchange unit 111 and type B heat exchange unit 112 in its multiple heat exchange units 110. The heat exchange unit closer to the windward side is type A heat exchange unit 111, and the heat exchange unit closer to the leeward side is type B heat exchange unit 112.

[0101] For example, such as Figure 7 As shown, the heat exchanger includes n+2 heat exchange units 110 arranged sequentially along the air outlet direction. The two heat exchange units 110 closest to the windward side are type A heat exchange units 111 and are arranged alternately, while the remaining n heat exchange units 110 are type B heat exchange units 112. Typically, from the windward side to the leeward side, the heat exchange capacity of the heat exchange units 110 accounts for approximately 75%, 15%, and 10%, respectively. The alternate arrangement of the two type A heat exchange units 111 closest to the windward side achieves a better heat exchange balance. However, due to the significant decrease in heat exchange capacity, if the remaining n heat exchange units 110 also used type A heat exchange units 111, the improvement in overall heat exchange efficiency due to heat exchange balance would be less than the improvement due to reducing the heat exchange area. Therefore, the remaining n heat exchange units 110 use type B heat exchange units 112. By reducing the heat exchange area of ​​the multiple type B heat exchange units 112 closest to the leeward side, the overall heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger can be effectively improved. The improvement is particularly noticeable when n is greater than or equal to 3.

[0102] Optionally, the heat exchange areas of multiple heat exchange tube assemblies in the same type B heat exchange unit 112 are different.

[0103] For example, such as Figure 8 As shown, an axial fan 140 blows air onto the windward side of the heat exchanger. In the flow field created by the rotation of the axial fan 140, the wind speed at the edges is greater than that in the center. The type B heat exchange unit 112 includes three heat exchange tube groups: 1b, 2b, and 3b. Heat exchange tube groups 1b and 3b correspond to the edges of the flow field, while heat exchange tube group 2b corresponds to the center. Furthermore, the heat exchange areas of heat exchange tube groups 1b and 3b are the same and larger than that of heat exchange tube group 2b. This design of multiple heat exchange tube groups based on the wind speed distribution improves the heat exchanger's efficiency.

[0104] Combination Figure 13 As shown, this disclosure provides a control method for a heat exchanger, including:

[0105] S01: The controller acquires the heat exchange capacity of each heat exchange unit 110;

[0106] S02: The controller controls the distribution device 120 to allocate refrigerant flow to the corresponding heat exchange unit 110 according to the heat exchange capacity.

[0107] In this way, for the structure in which multiple heat exchange units 110 are arranged side by side, the flow distribution device 120 distributes the refrigerant flow to the corresponding heat exchange unit 110 according to the heat exchange capacity of each heat exchange unit 110, distributing more refrigerant to the heat exchange unit 110 on the windward side and less refrigerant to the heat exchange unit 110 on the leeward side, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger.

[0108] Combination Figure 14 As shown in the embodiments of this disclosure, another control method for a heat exchanger is provided, including:

[0109] S03: The controller acquires the position information of type B heat exchange unit 112;

[0110] S04: The controller selects a strategy to control the on / off state of the heat exchange tube group based on the location information, thereby adjusting the heat exchange capacity of the type B heat exchange unit 112.

[0111] S05: The controller acquires the heat exchange capacity of the type B heat exchange unit 112;

[0112] S06: The controller controls the distribution device 120 to allocate refrigerant flow to the corresponding type B heat exchange unit 112 according to the heat exchange capacity.

[0113] In this embodiment, the type B heat exchange unit 112 refers to a heat exchange unit 110 with multiple parallel heat exchange tube groups. The location information of the type B heat exchange unit 112 includes its proximity to the windward side and its proximity to the leeward side. For the type B heat exchange unit 112 closer to the windward side, the heat exchange capacity is greater than that of the type B heat exchange unit 112 closer to the leeward side, and the inlet and outlet temperature difference of the heat exchange tube group is more significant compared to the difference in airflow received by the heat exchange tube group. Conversely, for the type B heat exchange unit 112 closer to the leeward side, the heat exchange capacity is smaller than that of the type B heat exchange unit 112 closer to the windward side, while the difference in airflow received by the heat exchange tube group is more significant. Thus, by employing different control strategies for the type B heat exchange units 112 at different locations, the overall heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger can be effectively improved.

[0114] Optionally, such as Figure 15 As shown, the strategy for controlling the on / off state of multiple heat exchange tube groups in the type B heat exchange unit 112 located near the leeward side includes:

[0115] S07: The controller acquires the wind speed information of the corresponding area of ​​each heat exchange tube group of the type B heat exchange unit 112;

[0116] S08: The controller controls the on / off state of multiple heat exchange tube groups in the type B heat exchange unit 112 based on the wind speed information.

[0117] From the windward side to the leeward side of the heat exchanger, the wind speed decreases, resulting in varying airflow volumes for different locations within the Type B heat exchange unit 112. Due to these wind speed differences, the airflow volumes for multiple heat exchange tube assemblies within the same Type B heat exchange unit 112 also differ. Furthermore, the varying frosting locations on the heat exchange unit 110 near the windward side further contribute to the airflow differences among the multiple heat exchange tube assemblies within the same Type B heat exchange unit 112. Therefore, by controlling the on / off state of the heat exchange tube assemblies based on their corresponding wind speed information, heat exchange tube assemblies with lower heat exchange efficiency can be accurately blocked, thereby effectively improving the overall heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger.

[0118] Optionally, in step S08, the controller controls the on / off state of multiple heat exchange tube groups of the type B heat exchange unit 112 according to the wind speed information, including:

[0119] When the wind speed in the area corresponding to a certain heat exchange tube group of the type B heat exchange unit 112 is less than the preset wind speed, the controller blocks the heat exchange tube group.

[0120] Here, if the air velocity in the area corresponding to the heat exchanger tube group is less than the preset air velocity, the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger tube group will be low. If refrigerant still flows through the heat exchanger tube group, it will reduce the overall heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger. Each heat exchanger tube group is equipped with a solenoid valve at its inlet. When the controller closes the solenoid valve, it blocks the corresponding heat exchanger tube group. When the air velocity in the area corresponding to the heat exchanger tube group is greater than the preset air velocity, the controller opens the solenoid valve, allowing the corresponding heat exchanger tube group to conduct heat normally.

[0121] For example, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the type B heat exchange unit 112 includes three heat exchange tube groups 1b, 2b, and 3b, with corresponding wind velocities of V1, V2, and V3, respectively. The controller controls the on / off state of the three heat exchange tube groups through two three-way solenoid valves 115. When frost forms on the heat exchange unit 110 near the windward side, and the frost location corresponds to heat exchange tube group 3b, the airflow to heat exchange tube group 3b decreases due to the frost, and the wind speed is lower than the preset wind speed. In this case, the controller blocks heat exchange tube group 3b through the corresponding three-way solenoid valve 115. After the heat exchanger defrosts, when the wind speed in the area corresponding to heat exchange tube group 3b is higher than the preset wind speed, the controller controls the three-way solenoid valve 115 to open heat exchange tube group 3b.

[0122] Optionally, the airflow side of the heat exchanger is blown by an axial fan 140; the type B heat exchange unit 112 includes three heat exchange tube groups, which correspond to the two sides and the middle of the airflow field of the axial fan 140, respectively; when the wind speed in the area corresponding to the heat exchange tube group in the middle is less than 1 / 2 of the wind speed in the area corresponding to the heat exchange tube group on either side, the heat exchange tube group in the middle is blocked.

[0123] In this embodiment, as Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, an axial fan 140 blows air onto the windward side of the heat exchanger. In the flow field caused by the rotation of the axial fan 140, the wind speed at the edges is greater than that in the middle. The type B heat exchange unit 112 includes three heat exchange tube groups: 1b, 2b, and 3b, with corresponding wind speeds of V1, V2, and V3, respectively. Furthermore, heat exchange tube groups 1b and 3b correspond to the two edges of the flow field, while heat exchange tube group 2b corresponds to the middle of the flow field. The controller controls the on / off state of the three heat exchange tube groups through two three-way solenoid valves 115. When V2 < 0.5 * V1, or when V2 < 0.5 * V3, the controller blocks heat exchange tube group 2b through the corresponding three-way solenoid valve 115, thereby effectively improving the overall heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger.

[0124] Optionally, such as Figure 16 As shown, the strategy for controlling the on / off state of multiple heat exchange tube groups in the type B heat exchange unit 112 located near the leeward side includes:

[0125] S09: The controller acquires the inlet and outlet temperature difference of each heat exchange tube group in the type B heat exchange unit 112;

[0126] S10: The controller controls the on / off state of multiple heat exchange tube groups in the type B heat exchange unit 112 according to the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet.

[0127] In this embodiment, the heat exchange unit 110 near the leeward side of the heat exchanger uses a type B heat exchange unit 112. From the windward side to the leeward side of the heat exchanger, the wind speed decreases, and the airflow to the type B heat exchange unit 112 varies at different locations. Due to the wind speed differences at different locations in the wind field, the airflow to multiple heat exchange tube assemblies within the same type B heat exchange unit 112 varies. Furthermore, due to the influence of different frosting locations when frosting occurs on the heat exchange unit 110 near the windward side, the airflow to multiple heat exchange tube assemblies within the same type B heat exchange unit 112 also varies. When the airflow varies, the refrigerant cannot fully exchange heat with the air when flowing through some heat exchange tube assemblies, resulting in reduced heat exchange efficiency and a decrease in the inlet and outlet temperature difference of the heat exchange tube assemblies. Therefore, the controller can effectively improve the overall heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger by promptly blocking heat exchange tube assemblies with lower heat exchange efficiency based on the inlet and outlet temperature difference.

[0128] Optionally, in step S10, the controller controls the on / off state of multiple heat exchange tube groups of the type B heat exchange unit 112 according to the inlet and outlet temperature difference, including:

[0129] When the inlet and outlet temperature difference of a certain heat exchange tube group in the type B heat exchange unit 112 is less than the preset temperature difference, the heat exchange tube group is blocked.

[0130] Here, if the inlet and outlet temperature difference of a certain heat exchange tube group in the type B heat exchange unit 112 is less than the preset temperature difference, that is, the refrigerant has not fully exchanged heat after flowing through the heat exchange tube group, the overall heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger will be reduced if refrigerant continues to flow through the heat exchange tube group. Each heat exchange tube group is equipped with a solenoid valve at its inlet end. When the controller controls the solenoid valve to close, it blocks the corresponding heat exchange tube group, thereby improving the overall heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger.

[0131] This disclosure also provides a heat pump system, including a refrigerant circulation loop consisting of a compressor 130, an outdoor heat exchanger 100, a throttling device 160, and an indoor heat exchanger 150. The outdoor heat exchanger 100 is the heat exchanger described in any of the above embodiments.

[0132] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings fully illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure to enable those skilled in the art to practice them. Other embodiments may include structural and other changes. The embodiments represent only possible variations. Individual components and functions are optional unless explicitly required, and the order of operation may vary. Parts and features of some embodiments may be included or substituted for parts and features of other embodiments. Embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes may be made without departing from its scope. The scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A heat exchanger, characterized by, The heat exchanger comprises: a plurality of heat exchange units connected in parallel and arranged side by side along the airflow direction; a flow distribution device having a plurality of flow distribution ports, each of the heat exchange units being connected to one of the flow distribution ports, and the flow distribution device distributing refrigerant flow to the corresponding heat exchange units according to the heat exchange capacity of each of the heat exchange units; the plurality of heat exchange units comprises two A-type heat exchange units and n B-type heat exchange units, n≥3; and the B-type heat exchange units are located on the leeward side of the A-type heat exchange units; the A-type heat exchange units comprise a plurality of series-connected heat exchange pipe groups, and the B-type heat exchange units comprise a plurality of parallel-connected heat exchange pipe groups; wherein at least one pair of adjacent A-type heat exchange units are arranged in a staggered manner, so that part of the heat exchange pipe groups of the A-type heat exchange unit close to the windward side are located on the leeward side, and part of the heat exchange pipe groups of the A-type heat exchange unit close to the leeward side are located on the windward side; the B-type heat exchange units comprise heat exchange pipe groups 1b, heat exchange pipe groups 2b and heat exchange pipe groups 3b which are independently controlled, the heat exchange pipe groups 1b and the heat exchange pipe groups 3b correspond to the edges of the air flow field, and the heat exchange pipe groups 2b correspond to the middle of the flow field; and the heat exchange area of the heat exchange pipe groups 1b and the heat exchange pipe groups 3b is the same and greater than the heat exchange area of the heat exchange pipe groups 2b.

2. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, wherein the refrigerant flow m of each of the heat exchange units is determined according to the following formula:

3. The heat exchanger according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heat exchanger is provided with one flow distribution device at the refrigerant inlet end and one flow distribution device at the refrigerant outlet end, so that when the refrigerant flows into the heat exchanger from either end, the corresponding flow distribution device can distribute the refrigerant to the plurality of heat exchange units. wherein k is a heat exchange coefficient of the heat exchange unit, A is a heat exchange area of the heat exchange unit, c is a specific heat capacity of the refrigerant, Δt is an inlet-outlet temperature difference of the heat exchange unit, and Δt m is a logarithmic mean temperature difference of the heat exchange unit, and wherein Δt max is the maximum value of the temperature difference between the inlet and the outlet of the heat exchange unit, Δt min is the minimum value of the temperature difference between the inlet and the outlet of the heat exchange unit.

4. The heat exchanger according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the refrigerant inlet end and the refrigerant outlet end of the heat exchanger are located on the two sides of the heat exchanger, so as to shorten the refrigerant travel in the heat exchanger.

5. The heat exchanger according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heat exchange units comprise a plurality of heat exchange pipe groups, and the plurality of heat exchange pipe groups are connected through a gas collecting pipe; the gas collecting pipe is provided with a mesh member, and the mesh member is used to break the bubbles and droplets flowing through the mesh to suppress the phase separation of the refrigerant in the gas collecting pipe.

6. The heat exchanger according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heat exchange areas of the plurality of heat exchange pipe groups of the same B-type heat exchange unit are different. The control method comprises: obtaining the heat exchange capacity of each of the heat exchange units; controlling the flow distribution device to distribute refrigerant flow to the corresponding heat exchange units according to the heat exchange capacity. The heat exchange units comprise a plurality of parallel-connected heat exchange pipe groups, before obtaining the heat exchange capacity of each of the heat exchange units, the method comprises:

7. A control method for a heat exchanger, characterized by, obtaining the position information of each of the heat exchange units; according to the position information, selecting a strategy for controlling the on-off state of the heat exchange pipe groups, so as to adjust the heat exchange capacity of the heat exchange units. The position information of the heat exchange units includes the position close to the windward side and the position close to the leeward side.

8. The control method according to claim 7, characterized by, ​ ​ ​ ​ 9. The control method according to claim 8, characterized by, ​ 10. The control method according to claim 9, characterized by The position information of the heat exchange unit includes being close to the leeward side, The strategy of controlling the on-off state of the heat exchange pipe group includes: Obtaining the wind speed information of the area corresponding to each heat exchange pipe group; Controlling the on-off state of multiple heat exchange pipe groups according to the wind speed information.

11. The control method according to claim 10, characterized by, The strategy of controlling the on-off state of the heat exchange pipe group includes: When the wind speed of the area corresponding to a certain heat exchange pipe group is less than a preset wind speed, the heat exchange pipe group is blocked.

12. The control method according to claim 11, characterized by, The windward side of the heat exchanger uses an axial flow fan to send air; the heat exchange unit includes three heat exchange pipe groups, and corresponds to the two sides of the air field of the axial flow fan and the middle part of the air field respectively; When the wind speed of the area corresponding to the middle heat exchange pipe group is less than 1 / 2 of the wind speed of the area corresponding to any side heat exchange pipe group, the middle heat exchange pipe group is blocked.

13. The control method according to claim 8, characterized by, The position information of the heat exchange unit includes being close to the windward side, The strategy of controlling the on-off state of the heat exchange pipe group includes: Obtaining the inlet and outlet temperature difference of each heat exchange pipe group; Controlling the on-off state of multiple heat exchange pipe groups according to the inlet and outlet temperature difference.

14. The control method according to claim 13, characterized by, The strategy of controlling the on-off state of the heat exchange pipe group includes: When the inlet and outlet temperature difference of a certain heat exchange pipe group is less than a preset temperature difference, the heat exchange pipe group is blocked.

15. A heat pump system, characterized by The heat exchanger includes any one of claims 1 to 14.

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