A liquid collection pipe assembly and an air conditioner

Abstract

This invention provides a liquid collection pipe assembly and an air conditioner, belonging to the refrigeration field. The liquid collection assembly is used to distribute refrigerant. The assembly includes interconnected liquid collection branch pipes and a liquid collection main pipe. The liquid collection branch pipes have a first flow cavity, and the liquid collection main pipe has a second flow cavity. The liquid collection branch pipes are configured to guide refrigerant from the first flow cavity to the second flow cavity. The assembly also includes a flow regulating device, which includes a flow adjustment section. This section is adjustable and disposed in the second flow cavity, and configured to change the amount of refrigerant flowing from the first flow cavity to the second flow cavity during adjustment. By incorporating a flow regulating device on the liquid collection pipe assembly, this invention enables controlled adjustment of the flow paths in each branch, ensuring balanced subcooling of each branch of the condenser, maximizing the condenser's heat exchange capacity, and thus improving the overall performance of the refrigeration system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of refrigeration, and particularly relates to a liquid collection pipe assembly and an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] In existing technologies, condensers typically use multiple capillary tubes and distributors to distribute the refrigerant in air conditioners. The flow rate to each branch is adjusted by changing the length of the capillary tubes. However, capillary tubes themselves have a throttling effect, increasing flow resistance. Furthermore, the relatively small diameter of the capillary tubes makes them prone to partial blockage.

[0003] The current solution is to use, for example Figure 1 The liquid collecting tube assembly shown replaces the capillary tube and the distributor for liquid separation. The liquid collecting tube assembly includes a main liquid collecting tube and liquid collecting branch tubes. Each liquid collecting branch tube in each flow path is a short tube, one end of which is connected to the condenser and the other end of which is connected to the main liquid collecting tube. Since the diameter of the liquid collecting branch tube is much larger than that of the capillary tube, it solves the problems of high liquid separation resistance and easy clogging of the distributor tube when using the capillary tube and the distributor.

[0004] However, the liquid collection branch pipe does not have the function of adjusting the branch resistance. Without intervention, it is difficult to achieve controlled regulation. Each flow path will self-distribute the flow according to the principle of the same pressure drop, which will result in a serious uneven subcooling at the outlet of each flow path, and the heat exchange uniformity of the condenser cannot be better optimized.

[0005] In view of this, the present invention is proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a liquid collection pipe assembly and an air conditioner.

[0007] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, on the one hand, the present invention provides a liquid collection pipe assembly for distributing refrigerant. The liquid collection pipe assembly includes a liquid collection branch pipe and a liquid collection main pipe that are interconnected. The liquid collection branch pipe has a first flow cavity, and the liquid collection main pipe has a second flow cavity. The liquid collection branch pipe is configured to guide the refrigerant from the first flow cavity to the second flow cavity.

[0008] The liquid collection pipe assembly also includes a flow regulating device, which includes a flow regulating section that is adjustable and disposed in the second flow cavity and configured to change the amount of refrigerant flowing from the first flow cavity into the second flow cavity during its regulation.

[0009] In the above technical solution, the flow regulating part is set directly opposite the outlet of the first flow cavity. When the flow regulating part is adjusted, at least a portion of the flow regulating part can be embedded in the first flow cavity through the outlet, and the amount of refrigerant flowing out from the outlet of the first flow cavity can be changed by adjusting the embedding amount of the flow regulating part in the first flow cavity.

[0010] In the above technical solution, the outlet of the first flow cavity is a cylindrical or conical opening, and the flow regulating part corresponding to the outlet includes a conical flow regulating head or a cylindrical flow regulating head;

[0011] When the outlet of the first flow cavity is cylindrical, the flow regulating part includes a conical flow regulating head corresponding to the outlet, and the tip of the conical flow regulating head is oriented towards the outlet.

[0012] When the outlet of the first flow cavity is conical, the flow regulating part includes a cylindrical flow regulating head corresponding to the outlet, and the flared end of the conical outlet is opposite to the end face of the cylindrical flow regulating head.

[0013] In the above technical solution, the flow regulating device also includes a regulating part connected to the flow regulating part. The regulating part is threadedly connected to the liquid collection main pipe and is configured to drive the flow regulating part to move to change the position of the flow regulating part, thereby changing the amount of refrigerant flowing out from the outlet of the first flow cavity.

[0014] The regulating unit can be directly or indirectly connected to the flow regulating unit.

[0015] In the above technical solution, when the regulating part and the flow regulating part are directly connected, the regulating part includes a screw threadedly connected to the main liquid collecting pipe, and the screw is opposite to the outlet of the branch liquid collecting pipe.

[0016] One end of the lead screw is placed outside the main liquid collecting pipe, and the other end is placed inside the main liquid collecting pipe. The end placed inside the main liquid collecting pipe is connected to the flow regulating part so that the flow regulating part moves when the lead screw rotates.

[0017] In the above technical solution, when the regulating part and the flow regulating part are indirectly connected, the regulating part includes a screw threaded to the liquid collection main pipe and an elastic connecting assembly for connecting the screw and the flow regulating part.

[0018] One end of the lead screw is placed outside the main liquid collection pipe, and the other end is placed inside the main liquid collection pipe. The elastic connection component is placed inside the main liquid collection pipe, with one end connected to the lead screw and the other end connected to the flow regulating part.

[0019] The flexible connection assembly is configured to adjust the position of the flow regulating section relative to the outlet of the liquid collecting branch pipe when the screw rotates;

[0020] The flexible connection assembly is also configured to adaptively adjust the position of the flow regulating section relative to the outlet of the liquid collecting branch pipe according to changes in refrigerant pressure within the liquid collecting branch pipe.

[0021] In the above technical solution, the elastic connection assembly includes a spring connected between the lead screw and the flow regulating part. A first spring limiting groove is connected to the lead screw, and a second spring limiting groove is connected to the flow regulating part. The openings of the first spring limiting groove and the second spring limiting groove are arranged opposite to each other. One end of the spring is limited to the first spring limiting groove, and the other end is limited to the second spring limiting groove.

[0022] In the above technical solution, the flow regulating device also includes a stabilizing part, which is configured to keep the central axis of the flow regulating part aligned with the central axis of the liquid collecting branch outlet.

[0023] In the above technical solution, the stabilizing part includes a first boss disposed in the concave surface of the first spring limiting groove and a second boss disposed in the concave surface of the second spring limiting groove, and the spring is sleeved on the outside of the first boss and the second boss.

[0024] The stabilizing part may also include a telescopic rod disposed between the first boss and the second boss or a support rod disposed on the flow regulating part;

[0025] When a support rod is installed on the flow regulating section, the support rod should be at least partially inserted into the liquid collecting branch pipe and coincide with the central axis of the liquid collecting branch pipe.

[0026] In the above technical solution, the flow regulating device also includes a sealing part, which is configured to seal the connection between the regulating part and the main liquid collection pipe to prevent the refrigerant in the main liquid collection pipe from leaking from the connection.

[0027] In the above technical solution, the sealing part includes a threaded joint, a sealing cap, a sealing ring, a gasket, a hexagonal nut, and a hexagonal screw nut;

[0028] The threaded connector is fixedly installed on the main liquid collection pipe and its outer circumferential surface is threaded to fit the sealing cap.

[0029] The lead screw is threaded into the threaded joint and locked in place by a sealing ring, a gasket, and a hexagonal nut.

[0030] In the above technical solution, the threaded joint is provided with a first mating surface, and the sealing cap is provided with a second mating surface that mates with the first mating surface.

[0031] When the sealing cap is installed on the threaded joint, the first and second mating surfaces cooperate to seal the sealing cap and prevent refrigerant leakage.

[0032] On the other hand, this embodiment of the invention also provides an air conditioner, which includes a condenser, a compressor and the aforementioned liquid collection pipe assembly. The liquid collection branch pipe in the liquid collection pipe assembly can guide the refrigerant in the condenser to the main liquid collection pipe according to the compressor drive.

[0033] The flow regulating device in the manifold assembly can regulate the amount of refrigerant flowing from the manifold branch pipe to the manifold main pipe.

[0034] By adopting the above technical solution, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art:

[0035] I. This invention, by setting a flow regulating device on the liquid collection pipe assembly, enables controlled regulation of the flow path of each branch, ensuring balanced subcooling of each branch of the unit's condenser, maximizing the heat exchange capacity of the condenser, and thus improving the overall performance of the unit's refrigeration system.

[0036] Second, the flow regulation device in this invention is also equipped with a flexible connection component, which can not only ensure that the subcooling of each branch of the condenser is balanced under the nominal operating point and maximize the heat exchange capacity of the condenser, but also automatically adjust the flow rate under non-nominal operating point conditions to improve the heat exchange efficiency of the unit, thereby improving the overall refrigeration system performance of the unit.

[0037] The specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0038] The accompanying drawings, as part of this invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of the invention are used to explain the invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative effort. In the drawings:

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the liquid collection pipe installed on the condenser in the prior art;

[0040] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of Embodiment 1 of the liquid collection tube assembly of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of the flow regulating device in the embodiment;

[0042] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of Embodiment 2 of the liquid collection tube assembly of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of the flow regulating device in the embodiment;

[0044] Figure 6 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the force analysis of the flow regulating section in the horizontal direction in the embodiment;

[0045] Figure 7 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the force analysis of the lead screw in the horizontal direction in the embodiment;

[0046] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of Embodiment 3 of the liquid collection tube assembly of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 9 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of the flow regulating device in the embodiment;

[0048] Figure 1 In the middle: 1'-liquid collecting branch pipe, 2'-liquid collecting main pipe, 4'-condenser.

[0049] Figure 2-9 In the middle: 1-liquid collecting branch pipe, 11-first flow cavity, 2-liquid collecting main pipe, 21-second flow cavity, 3-flow regulating device, 31-flow regulating part, 32-adjusting part, 321-screw, 322-spring, 323-first spring limiting groove, 324-second spring limiting groove, 33-stabilizing part, 331-first boss, 332-second boss, 333-telescopic rod, 334-support rod, 34-sealing part, 341-threaded joint, 342-sealing cap, 343-sealing ring, 344-gasket, 345-hexagonal nut, 346-hexagonal nut.

[0050] It should be noted that these accompanying drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0051] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "inner" and "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting this invention.

[0052] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," "contact," and "communication" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they can refer to mechanical connections or electrical connections; they can refer to direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0053] Currently, existing liquid collection pipe assemblies lack the ability to adjust branch resistance during liquid distribution, easily leading to severe uneven subcooling at the outlets of each flow path, thus reducing the condenser's heat exchange capacity. This invention addresses this issue by incorporating a flow regulation device into the liquid collection pipe assembly. This device enables controlled regulation of the flow paths in each branch, ensuring balanced subcooling across all branches of the condenser, maximizing the condenser's heat exchange capacity, and ultimately improving the overall performance of the refrigeration system.

[0054] To further illustrate the technical solutions in this invention, the following is combined with... Figures 1-9 As shown, the following specific embodiments are provided.

[0055] Before describing the specific embodiments of the present invention, the liquid collection pipe assembly in the prior art will be described, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the liquid collecting branch pipe 1' in each flow path is a short pipe, one end of which is connected to the condenser 4' and the other end is connected to the main liquid collecting pipe 2'. However, the liquid collecting branch pipe 1' does not have the function of adjusting the branch resistance. Without intervention, it is difficult to achieve controlled regulation. Each flow path will self-distribute the flow rate according to the principle of equal pressure drop, resulting in severe uneven subcooling at the outlet of each flow path, and the heat transfer uniformity of the condenser 4' cannot be better optimized. Based on this, the present invention provides the following embodiments to solve the above-mentioned problems.

[0056] Example 1

[0057] This invention provides a method such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 The liquid collection pipe assembly shown is used for distributing refrigerant. The assembly includes interconnected liquid collection branch pipes 1 and liquid collection main pipe 2. The liquid collection branch pipe 1 has a first flow cavity 11, and the liquid collection main pipe 2 has a second flow cavity 21. The liquid collection branch pipe 1 is configured to guide the refrigerant from the first flow cavity 11 to the second flow cavity 21. It is worth noting that there are multiple sets of liquid collection branch pipes 1, distributed in different flow paths and configured to simultaneously supply refrigerant to a single liquid collection main pipe 2.

[0058] Specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown, the liquid collection pipe assembly also includes a flow regulating device 3, which includes a flow adjustment section 31. Specifically, each liquid collection branch pipe 1 is provided with a set of flow regulating devices 3. The flow adjustment section 31 is adjustablely disposed in the second flow cavity 21 and configured to change the amount of refrigerant flowing from the first flow cavity 11 into the second flow cavity 21 during its adjustment process.

[0059] When the liquid distribution assembly is performing liquid distribution, the outflow of each liquid distribution branch 1 can be adjusted according to the different pressures of different flow paths, so that the amount of refrigerant flowing out of each liquid distribution branch 1 remains constant, thereby enabling controlled adjustment of each flow path, and ensuring that the subcooling of each branch of the condenser is balanced under the nominal operating point of the unit, thus maximizing the heat exchange capacity of the condenser.

[0060] The flow regulating unit 31 in the flow regulating device 3 will be described in detail below:

[0061] like Figure 2As shown, the flow regulating section 31 is positioned directly opposite the outlet of the first flow cavity 11. When the flow regulating section 31 is adjusted, at least a portion of it can be embedded in the first flow cavity 11 through its outlet. By adjusting the embedment amount of the flow regulating section 31 in the first flow cavity 11, the amount of refrigerant flowing out from the outlet of the first flow cavity 11 can be changed. In other words, by adjusting the embedment amount of the flow regulating section 31 in the first flow cavity 11, the outlet size of the first flow cavity 11 is changed, thereby achieving the flow regulation purpose of each branch.

[0062] Specifically, the outlet of the first flow cavity 11 is a cylindrical or conical opening, and the flow regulating part 31 corresponding to the outlet of the first flow cavity 11 is configured as a conical flow regulating head or a cylindrical flow regulating head;

[0063] When the outlet of the first flow cavity 11 is cylindrical, the flow regulating part 31 includes a conical flow regulating head corresponding to the outlet, with the tip of the conical flow regulating head facing the outlet. By changing the embedment amount of the conical flow regulating head in the first flow cavity 11, the gap between the outlet of the first flow cavity 11 and the conical flow regulating head can be changed, thereby achieving the purpose of regulating the flow of the first flow cavity 11. Of course, the shape of the flow regulating part 31 is not limited to conical. In some alternative embodiments, the flow regulating part 31 can also be configured as a cylindrical flow regulating head. When the flow regulating part 31 is configured as a cylindrical flow regulating head, the outlet of the first flow cavity 11 is configured as conical, and the flared end of the conical outlet is opposite to the end face of the cylindrical flow regulating head, which can also achieve the purpose of regulating the flow of the first flow cavity 11. In the embodiments of this application, the shapes of the flow regulating part 31 and the outlet of the first flow cavity 11 are not specifically limited, as long as the two can meet the purpose of regulating the flow of the first flow cavity 11 when they are combined.

[0064] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the flow regulating device 3 also includes an regulating part 32 connected to the flow regulating part 31. The regulating part 32 is threadedly connected to the liquid collection manifold 2 and is configured to drive the flow regulating part 31 to move to change the position of the flow regulating part 31, thereby changing the amount of refrigerant flowing out from the outlet of the first flow chamber 11.

[0065] The regulating unit 32 can be directly or indirectly connected to the flow regulating unit 31.

[0066] In this embodiment, the example of the regulating unit 32 being directly connected to the flow regulating unit 31 will be used for specific explanation:

[0067] like Figure 3As shown, when the regulating part 32 is directly connected to the flow regulating part 31, the regulating part 32 includes a screw 321 threaded onto the main collection pipe 2, with the screw 321 facing the outlet of the branch pipe 1. One end of the screw 321 is located outside the main collection pipe 2, and the other end is located inside the main collection pipe 2. The end inside the main collection pipe 2 is connected to the flow regulating part 31 so that rotating the screw 321 moves the flow regulating part 31. It is worth noting that when the screw 321 is directly connected to the flow regulating part 31, the central axis of the flow regulating part 31 coincides with the central axis of the branch pipe 1 to improve the flow regulating effect of the flow regulating part 31 on the branch pipe 1 during movement.

[0068] When it is necessary to adjust the refrigerant outflow of the liquid collecting branch pipe 1, the lead screw 321 can be rotated. When the lead screw 321 rotates, it drives the flow regulating part 31 at its end to move back and forth along the central axis of the liquid collecting branch pipe 1, thereby changing the refrigerant outflow at the outlet of the liquid collecting branch pipe 1 and realizing the adjustment of the refrigerant flow of the branch.

[0069] Furthermore, such as Figure 3 As shown, in order to prevent refrigerant leakage in the main collection pipe 2, the flow regulating device 3 in this embodiment of the application is also provided with a sealing part 34, wherein the sealing part 34 is configured to seal the connection between the regulating part 32 and the main collection pipe 2 to prevent refrigerant in the main collection pipe 2 from leaking from the connection.

[0070] The sealing part 34 in the flow regulating device 3 will be described in detail below:

[0071] like Figure 3 As shown, the sealing part 34 includes a threaded joint 341, a sealing cap 342, a sealing ring 343, a gasket 344, a spring washer (not shown in the figure), a hexagonal nut 345, and a hexagonal nut 346.

[0072] The threaded connector 341 is a hollow cylinder with a boss at the top. Its inner wall has internal threads, and the cylindrical portion of its outer wall has external threads. The threaded connector 341 is fixedly installed on the main collection pipe 2, and its outer circumference is threadedly engaged with the sealing cap 342. A portion of the threaded connector 341 extends into the main collection pipe 2. The connection between the outer wall of the threaded connector 341 and the main collection pipe 2 is achieved by welding. The sealing cap 342 has a hexagonal prism shape for easy tightening and a hollow interior. The lead screw 321 is threaded onto the threaded connector 341 and secured by a sealing ring 343, a washer 344, and a hexagonal nut 345.

[0073] During installation, first drill a hole with the same outer diameter as the threaded connector 341 on the wall of the main collection pipe 2, which connects to the branch pipe 1. Then insert the threaded connector 341 and the lead screw 321 through this hole, with the internal thread of the threaded connector 341 connecting to the external thread of the lead screw 321. Insert the threaded connector 341 into the drilled hole on the main collection pipe 2, ensuring one end of the threaded connector 341 extends deep into the main collection pipe 2. The connection between the outer wall of the threaded connector 341 and the main collection pipe 2 is welded. Then, attach the sealing ring 343, gasket 344, spring washer, and hexagonal nut 345. Figure 2 Place them in the order shown. There is also a connection between the internal thread of the hexagonal nut 345 and the external thread of the lead screw 321. Rotate the hexagonal nut 345 to lock and fix the lead screw 321.

[0074] During adjustment, first remove the hexagonal nut 345, spring washer, gasket 344, and sealing ring 343 by rotating them in sequence. Then, based on laboratory test data, adjust the insertion depth of the flow regulating part 31 by rotating the hexagonal nut 346 to achieve flow path adjustment. After adjusting the flow path flow, the connection between the outer wall of the lead screw 321 and the inner wall of the threaded joint 341 needs to be sealed with hot melt adhesive. Then, reinstall the sealing ring 343, gasket 344, spring washer, and hexagonal nut 345 as follows: Figure 2 Place the components in the indicated order, then rotate the hexagonal nut 345 to lock and secure the lead screw 321. Finally, rotate the sealing cap 342 to lock it in place to prevent damage from subsequent adjustments.

[0075] It is worth noting that, in order to further improve the sealing effect of the sealing part 34, in the embodiments of this application, such as Figure 2 As shown, a first mating surface is provided on the threaded connector 341, and a second mating surface is provided on the sealing cap 342 to mate with the first mating surface. When the sealing cap 342 is installed on the threaded connector 341, the first and second mating surfaces cooperate to seal the sealing cap 342 to prevent refrigerant leakage. Specifically, when the first and second mating surfaces mate, they form the following... Figure 2 The conical seal shown at point a further improves the sealing effect of the sealing cap 342, ensuring that the refrigerant will not leak.

[0076] Example 2

[0077] The difference between this embodiment and embodiment 1 is that the regulating part 32 and the flow regulating part 31 in this embodiment are not directly connected as in embodiment 1. In this embodiment, the regulating part 32 and the flow regulating part 31 are indirectly connected.

[0078] like Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, when the regulating unit 32 is indirectly connected to the flow regulating unit 31, the regulating unit 32 includes a screw 321 threaded onto the main liquid collection pipe and an elastic connecting assembly for connecting the screw 321 and the flow regulating unit 31. One end of the screw 321 is placed outside the main liquid collection pipe 2, and the other end is placed inside the main liquid collection pipe 2. The elastic connecting assembly is placed inside the main liquid collection pipe 2, with one end connected to the screw 321 and the other end connected to the flow regulating unit 31. The elastic connecting assembly is configured to adjust the position of the flow regulating unit 31 relative to the outlet of the main liquid collection pipe 1 when the screw 321 rotates. At the same time, the elastic connecting assembly is also configured to adaptively adjust the position of the flow regulating unit 31 relative to the outlet of the main liquid collection pipe 1 according to the change in refrigerant pressure in the main liquid collection pipe 1.

[0079] Specifically, such as Figure 5 As shown, the elastic connection assembly includes a spring 322 connected between the lead screw 321 and the flow regulating part 31. The lead screw 321 is connected to a first spring limiting groove 323, and the flow regulating part 31 is connected to a second spring limiting groove 324. The openings of the first spring limiting groove 323 and the second spring limiting groove 324 are arranged opposite to each other. One end of the spring 322 is limited to the first spring limiting groove 323, and the other end is limited to the second spring limiting groove 324. It is worth noting that when the spring 322 is limited in the limiting groove (i.e., the first spring limiting groove 323 and the second spring limiting groove 324), the spring 322 can be limited in the limiting groove by snap-fitting. Of course, the spring 322 can also be limited in the limiting groove by welding or bonding. Relatively speaking, in this embodiment, the spring 322 is limited in the limiting groove by snap-fitting. By limiting the spring 322 in the limiting groove by snap-fitting, it is convenient to replace the spring 322 in the future.

[0080] In this embodiment, the flow rate regulation principle of the liquid collecting branch pipe 1 is as follows:

[0081] During the adjustment process, the horizontal force analysis of the flow regulating unit 31 is as follows: Figure 6 As shown, the flow regulating section 31 is subjected to an impact force of P1 from the refrigerant in the horizontal direction, and a pressure P2 from the spring 322.

[0082] Horizontal force analysis of lead screw 321 is as follows Figure 7 As shown, the lead screw 321 is subjected to a spring pressure of P2 in the horizontal direction, and the threaded joint 341 provides support force P3 to the spring 322.

[0083] During adjustment, if the flow rate of this flow path needs to be increased, simply adjust the hex nut 346 counterclockwise; if the flow rate needs to be decreased, simply adjust the hex nut 346 clockwise until the ideal position is reached. Throughout the adjustment process, the flow rate regulating device is in a state of force balance, i.e., P1=P2=P3.

[0084] Because the refrigerant liquid impacts the flow regulating section 31 with different forces in each flow path, the refrigerant flow resistance of the branch can be manually adjusted in this way. By adjusting the gap between the front end of the flow regulating section 31 and the liquid collecting branch pipe 1 under different spring forces, the flow rate can be regulated, thereby maximizing the heat exchange uniformity of the condenser. After each branch is adjusted, the regulating device is sealed with hot melt adhesive to prevent damage from subsequent manual adjustments.

[0085] It is worth noting that for units using variable frequency compressors, this device is generally used to regulate the flow rate of each branch of the condenser at the nominal operating point, ensuring balanced subcooling in each flow path, thereby maximizing the condenser's heat exchange capacity and improving the unit's heat exchange efficiency. Furthermore, in non-nominal operating conditions, due to the flexible connection components in this embodiment, the flow rate of each branch of the condenser can be automatically adjusted based on the principle of equal pressure drop, thus ensuring that normal operation of the unit is not affected even in non-nominal operating conditions. For units using fixed frequency compressors, the refrigerant flow rate inside the unit does not change, so using this device to regulate the flow rate of each branch of the condenser at the nominal operating point is also applicable to other operating conditions.

[0086] Furthermore, it should be noted that, since an elastic connection component is provided in this embodiment, in order to ensure the stability of the entire flow regulating device, the flow regulating device 3 in this application embodiment also includes a stabilizing part 33, wherein the stabilizing part 33 is configured to keep the central axis of the flow regulating part 31 consistent with the central axis of the outlet of the liquid collecting branch pipe 1, so that the flow regulating part 31 is always opposite to the outlet of the liquid collecting branch pipe 1 (maintaining alignment).

[0087] The following is combined with Figure 4 and Figure 5 The stabilizing part 33 will be explained in detail;

[0088] Specifically, such as Figure 5 As shown, the stabilizing part 33 includes a first boss 331 disposed in the concave surface of the first spring limiting groove 323 and a second boss 332 disposed in the concave surface of the second spring limiting groove 324. The spring 322 is sleeved on the outside of the first boss 331 and the second boss 332. The stabilizing part 33 also includes a telescopic rod 333 disposed between the first boss 331 and the second boss 332. Since the telescopic rod 333 restricts the vertical movement of the flow regulating part 31, the telescopic rod 333 ensures that the flow regulating part 31 is always opposite to the outlet of the liquid collecting branch pipe 1, thereby improving the stability of the flow regulating device 3.

[0089] Example 3

[0090] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 2 is that in this embodiment, the support rod 334 is used instead of the telescopic rod 333, such as... Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown in the embodiment of this application, the stabilizing part 33 includes a first boss 331 disposed in the concave surface of the first spring limiting groove 323 and a second boss 332 disposed in the concave surface of the second spring limiting groove 324, and the spring 322 is sleeved on the outside of the first boss 331 and the second boss 332.

[0091] The stabilizing part 33 also includes a support rod 334 provided on the flow regulating part 31. When the support rod 334 is provided on the flow regulating part 31, the support rod 334 is at least partially inserted into the liquid collecting branch pipe 1 and coincides with the central axis of the liquid collecting branch pipe 1. This prevents the flow regulating part 31 from falling out of the outlet of the liquid collecting branch pipe 1 (maintaining centering).

[0092] In summary, the liquid collection pipe assembly in this embodiment of the application can achieve controlled regulation of the flow path of each branch by setting the flow regulation device 3, which can ensure the uniform subcooling of each branch of the unit condenser, maximize the heat exchange capacity of the condenser, and thus improve the overall refrigeration system performance of the unit.

[0093] On the other hand, this application also provides an air conditioner, which includes a condenser, a compressor, and the aforementioned liquid collection pipe assembly. The liquid collection branch pipe in the liquid collection pipe assembly can guide the refrigerant in the condenser to the main liquid collection pipe according to the compressor's drive. The flow regulating device 3 in the liquid collection pipe assembly can regulate the amount of refrigerant flowing from the liquid collection branch pipe 1 to the main liquid collection pipe 2. This improves the cooling performance of the air conditioner during operation.

[0094] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-described technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A liquid collection pipe assembly for distributing refrigerant, characterized in that, The liquid collection pipe assembly includes interconnected liquid collection branch pipes (1) and liquid collection main pipes (2), the liquid collection branch pipes (1) having a first flow cavity (11) and the liquid collection main pipes (2) having a second flow cavity (21), the liquid collection branch pipes (1) being configured to guide refrigerant from the first flow cavity (11) to the second flow cavity (21); The liquid collection pipe assembly also includes a flow regulating device (3), which includes a flow regulating section (31) that is adjustablely disposed in the second flow cavity (21) and configured to change the amount of refrigerant flowing from the first flow cavity (11) into the second flow cavity (21) during its adjustment. The flow regulating device (3) further includes an regulating part (32) connected to the flow regulating part (31). The regulating part (32) is threadedly connected to the liquid collection main pipe (2) and is configured to drive the flow regulating part (31) to move to change the position of the flow regulating part (31) and thereby change the amount of refrigerant flowing out from the outlet of the first flow chamber (11). The regulating part (32) can be directly or indirectly connected to the flow regulating part (31). When the regulating part (32) is indirectly connected to the flow regulating part (31), the regulating part (32) includes a screw (321) threaded onto the liquid collection main pipe and an elastic connection assembly for connecting the screw (321) and the flow regulating part (31); One end of the lead screw (321) is placed outside the main liquid collection pipe (2), and the other end is placed inside the main liquid collection pipe (2). The elastic connection assembly is placed inside the main liquid collection pipe (2), with one end connected to the lead screw (321) and the other end connected to the flow regulating part (31). The elastic connection assembly is configured to adjust the position of the flow regulating part (31) relative to the outlet of the liquid collecting branch pipe (1) when the lead screw (321) rotates; The flexible connection assembly is also configured to adaptively adjust the position of the flow regulating section (31) relative to the outlet of the liquid collecting branch pipe (1) according to the change in refrigerant pressure in the liquid collecting branch pipe (1).

2. The liquid collection tube assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow regulating section (31) is disposed opposite to the outlet of the first flow cavity (11). When the flow regulating section (31) is adjusted, at least a portion of the flow regulating section (31) can be embedded in the first flow cavity (11) through the outlet, and the amount of refrigerant flowing out from the outlet of the first flow cavity (11) can be changed by adjusting the embedment amount of the flow regulating section (31) in the first flow cavity (11).

3. The liquid collection tube assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The outlet of the first flow cavity (11) is a cylindrical or conical opening, and the flow regulating part (31) corresponding to the outlet includes a conical flow regulating head or a cylindrical flow regulating head; When the outlet of the first flow cavity (11) is cylindrical, the flow regulating part (31) includes a conical flow regulating head that is disposed corresponding to the outlet and the tip of the conical flow regulating head is disposed facing the outlet; When the outlet of the first flow cavity (11) is conical, the flow regulating part (31) includes a cylindrical flow regulating head corresponding to the outlet, and the flared end of the conical outlet is opposite to the end face of the cylindrical flow regulating head.

4. The liquid collection tube assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic connection assembly includes a spring (322) connected between the lead screw (321) and the flow regulating part (31). A first spring limiting groove (323) is connected to the lead screw (321), and a second spring limiting groove (324) is connected to the flow regulating part (31). The openings of the first spring limiting groove (323) and the second spring limiting groove (324) are arranged opposite to each other. One end of the spring (322) is limited to the first spring limiting groove (323), and the other end is limited to the second spring limiting groove (324).

5. The liquid collection tube assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The flow regulating device (3) further includes a stabilizing part (33), which is configured to keep the central axis of the flow regulating part (31) aligned with the central axis of the outlet of the liquid collecting branch pipe (1).

6. The liquid collection tube assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The stabilizing part (33) includes a first boss (331) disposed in the concave surface of the first spring limiting groove (323) and a second boss (332) disposed in the concave surface of the second spring limiting groove (324), and the spring (322) is sleeved on the outside of the first boss (331) and the second boss (332). The stabilizing part (33) also includes a telescopic rod (333) disposed between the first boss (331) and the second boss (332) or a support rod (334) disposed on the flow regulating part (31). When the support rod (334) is installed on the flow regulating part (31), the support rod (334) is at least partially inserted into the liquid collecting branch pipe (1) and coincides with the central axis of the liquid collecting branch pipe (1).

7. The liquid collection tube assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The flow regulating device (3) further includes a sealing part (34) configured to seal the connection between the regulating part (32) and the main collection pipe (2) to prevent refrigerant in the main collection pipe (2) from leaking from the connection.

8. The liquid collection tube assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The sealing part (34) includes a threaded joint (341), a sealing cap (342), a sealing ring (343), a gasket (344), a hexagonal nut (345), and a hexagonal nut (346). The threaded connector (341) is fixedly installed on the main liquid collection pipe (2) and its outer circumferential surface is threadedly engaged with the sealing cap (342); The lead screw (321) is threadedly connected to the threaded joint (341) and is locked and fixed by the sealing ring (343), the washer (344) and the hexagonal nut (345).

9. The liquid collection tube assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The threaded connector (341) has a first mating surface, and the sealing cap (342) has a second mating surface that mates with the first mating surface; When the sealing cap (342) is installed on the threaded joint (341), the first mating surface and the second mating surface cooperate to seal the sealing cap (342) to prevent refrigerant leakage.

10. An air conditioner, characterized in that, The system includes a condenser, a compressor, and a liquid collection pipe assembly as described in any one of claims 1-9, wherein the liquid collection branch pipe in the liquid collection pipe assembly can guide the refrigerant in the condenser to the main liquid collection pipe according to the drive of the compressor. The flow regulating device in the liquid collection pipe assembly can regulate the amount of refrigerant flowing from the liquid collection branch pipe into the liquid collection main pipe.

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