Heat exchanger and air conditioning device

Abstract

The outdoor heat exchanger (11) includes: fins (50) having openings (51); and a porous tube (40) extending in the front-rear direction (X), having multiple flow paths (43) formed in the left-right direction (Y), and inserted into the openings (51). The fins (50) have bends (52) at the openings (51) in the vertical direction (Z) that bend toward the front-rear direction (X).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to heat exchangers and air conditioning units. Background Technology

[0002] For example, the heat exchanger described in Patent Document 1 has multiple plate-shaped fins and multiple porous tubes inserted into through insertion holes formed in these plate-shaped fins. In such a heat exchanger, heat exchange is performed between refrigerant flowing inside the porous tubes and air flowing while in contact with the plate-shaped fins.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-78295 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] To improve thermal conductivity in the heat exchanger described in Patent Document 1, the through-holes of the plate-shaped fins can be made smaller, and the gap between the porous tube and the edge of the through-holes of the plate-shaped fins can be reduced. However, if the through-holes of the plate-shaped fins are reduced, the insertion resistance of the porous tube into the through-holes increases during heat exchanger assembly, making the insertion of the porous tube difficult.

[0008] The purpose of this disclosure is to enable the easy assembly of heat exchangers.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] (1) The heat exchanger of the present disclosure comprises: fins having openings; and a porous tube extending in a first direction, having a plurality of flow paths formed in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction and inserted into the openings, wherein the fins have a curved portion bent toward the first direction at the position of the opening in a third direction orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction, respectively.

[0011] In this heat exchanger configuration, the size of the fin opening is smaller after the bend is formed than before, thus allowing for a pre-increase in the opening size before the bend is formed. Consequently, by inserting a porous tube into the fin opening before the bend is formed, the insertion resistance of the porous tube can be reduced.

[0012] (2) Preferably, the fin has a notch formed in the bend.

[0013] In this case, the fins are easy to bend, thus making it easier to form a bend.

[0014] (3) Preferably, the notch is cut out in the second direction from the edge of the opening.

[0015] In this case, the fins are easier to bend, and therefore, it is easier to form a bend.

[0016] (4) Preferably, the width of the notch in the third direction is smaller than the width of the opening in the third direction.

[0017] In this case, the reduction in heat transfer area of ​​the fins due to the formation of notches in the fins can be suppressed, thus suppressing the decrease in thermal conductivity.

[0018] (5) Preferably, the opening is a hole formed in the fin, the curved portion has a first portion and a second portion formed on both sides of the second direction of the opening, and the notch is formed in the first portion and the second portion, respectively.

[0019] In this case, the fins are easier to bend, and therefore, it is easier to form a bend.

[0020] (6) Preferably, the notch is cut from the edges on both sides of the opening in the second direction.

[0021] In this case, the fins are easier to bend, and therefore, it is easier to form a bend.

[0022] (7) Preferably, the fin has a clamp formed along the edge of the opening in such a way that it stands upright from the edge of the opening, the clamp having a first clamp portion and a second clamp portion disposed in the third direction across the notch.

[0023] In this case, the porous tube inserted into the opening of the fin can be easily installed onto the fin by fixing it to the clamp using brazing or the like. On the other hand, when the clamp is formed along the entire edge of the fin opening, the fin is difficult to bend. However, since the clamp is divided into a first clamp part and a second clamp part in the third direction with a notch, the fin can be easily bent.

[0024] (8) Preferably, the fin has a clamp formed along the edge of the opening in such a way that it stands up from the edge of the opening, the clamp having a first clamp portion and a second clamp portion disposed at a distance from each other at the edge of the opening in the second direction.

[0025] In this case, since the first clamping part and the second clamping part of the clamp are arranged with a gap between each other at the edge of the fin opening in the second direction, the fin can be easily bent.

[0026] (9) Preferably, the end of at least one of the first clamp portion and the second clamp portion on the side of the gap is opposite to the side of the porous tube in the second direction.

[0027] In this case, when the porous tube is inserted into the opening of the fin, the side of the porous tube can be guided by the end of at least one of the first clamping part and the second clamping part on the gap side.

[0028] (10) Preferably, the fin has: a plurality of openings spaced apart in the third direction; and a plurality of bends that are bent at the positions of the plurality of openings in the third direction and alternately bent in opposite directions, the plurality of bends 52 having a predetermined number of first bends bent toward one side of the first direction and a predetermined number of second bends bent toward the other side of the first direction, the clamp being formed along the edge of the opening corresponding to at least one of the predetermined number of first bends and the predetermined number of second bends.

[0029] In this case, the porous tube, which has a clamp formed on the edge of the multiple openings inserted into the fin, can be easily installed on the fin by using brazing or the like to fix the porous tube to the clamp.

[0030] (11) Preferably, the clamp stands out from the edge of the opening corresponding only to a predetermined number of the first curved portions toward the other side in the first direction, or stands out from the edge of the opening corresponding only to a predetermined number of the second curved portions toward the side in the first direction.

[0031] In this case, the clamps all stand upright in the same direction at the edges of the openings corresponding to a predetermined number of bends (first bends or second bends) that bend in the same direction, thus making it easy to manufacture fins.

[0032] (12) Preferably, the porous tube is inserted only into the opening where the clamp is formed at the edge.

[0033] In this case, since the edges of all the openings in the multiple openings of the fins for inserting the porous tube are formed with clamps, the porous tube can be guided by the clamps when it is inserted into the opening. As a result, the heat exchanger can be assembled more easily.

[0034] (13) Preferably, the clamp has: a first clamp erected from the edge of the opening corresponding to a predetermined number of the first curved portions toward the other side in the first direction; and a second clamp erected from the edge of the opening corresponding to a predetermined number of the second curved portions toward the side in the first direction.

[0035] In this case, the porous tube inserted into the opening corresponding to all the bends of the fin can be guided using the first clamp or the second clamp.

[0036] (14) Preferably, the clamp contacts the porous tube inserted into the opening where the clamp is formed at the edge.

[0037] In this case, the fins and the porous tube are in contact with each other by means of clamps, thus improving thermal conductivity.

[0038] (15) Preferably, the fin has a protrusion that is disposed near the bend and protrudes to one side in the first direction to limit the bending angle of the bend by a predetermined angle.

[0039] In this case, when bending the fins, the protrusions can be used to limit the bending angle of the bent portion at a specified angle, thus preventing excessive bending of the fins.

[0040] (16) Preferably, the protrusion has a first protrusion and a second protrusion, the first protrusion and the second protrusion are disposed on both sides of the third direction of the curved portion of the fin, and the bending angle of the curved portion is limited at the predetermined angle by abutting against each other.

[0041] In this case, when bending the fin, excessive bending of the fin can be suppressed by making the first protrusion abut against the second protrusion.

[0042] (17) Preferably, the opening is a hole formed in the fin, and the protrusions are respectively disposed on both sides of the opening in the second direction.

[0043] In this case, when the fin is bent, the bending angle of the bent portion can be limited at a predetermined angle by means of the protrusions respectively provided on both sides of the opening in the second direction. As a result, excessive bending on one side of the fin opening in the second direction can be suppressed.

[0044] (18) Preferably, the fin has: a plurality of openings spaced apart in the third direction; and a plurality of bends that are bent at the positions of the plurality of openings in the third direction and alternately bent in opposite directions, the plurality of bends having a predetermined number of first bends bent toward one side of the first direction and a predetermined number of second bends bent toward the other side of the first direction, the protrusions being disposed near the predetermined number of first bends and not near the predetermined number of second bends.

[0045] In this case, since the protrusions are only provided near the first bend that bends in the same direction, all the protrusions can protrude in the same direction. As a result, it is easy to manufacture fins.

[0046] (19) Preferably, the first protrusion and the second protrusion each have abutting surfaces that abut against each other.

[0047] In this case, since the contact surfaces of the first protrusion and the second protrusion abut against each other with surfaces, the contact accuracy between the first protrusion and the second protrusion can be improved compared to the case where the first protrusion and the second protrusion abut against each other with points or lines.

[0048] (20) Preferably, the contact surfaces of the first protrusion and the second protrusion are line-symmetrical across a center line, which bisects the bending angle of the curved portion.

[0049] In this case, the contact surfaces of the first protrusion and the second protrusion abut against each other on the center line that bisects the bending angle of the bent portion. Therefore, when their contact surfaces abut against each other, the load applied to the fins via the first protrusion and the second protrusion can be made equal.

[0050] (21) Preferably, the first protrusion and the second protrusion are of the same shape.

[0051] In this case, the first and second protrusions can be easily formed.

[0052] (22) Preferably, the fin has a protrusion protruding to one side in the first direction near the bend, the protrusion having a first protrusion and a second protrusion, the first protrusion and the second protrusion being disposed on both sides of the bend in the third direction of the fin and abutting against each other.

[0053] In this case, when bending the fin, excessive bending of the fin can be suppressed by making the first protrusion abut against the second protrusion.

[0054] (23) The air conditioning device disclosed herein includes the heat exchanger described in any one of (1) to (22) above.

[0055] In an air conditioning unit constructed in this way, the heat exchanger can be easily assembled. Attached Figure Description

[0056] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of an air conditioning unit that employs a heat exchanger implemented in this way.

[0057] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0058] Figure 3 This is an enlarged three-dimensional view showing a part of the heat exchange section.

[0059] Figure 4 This is a magnified three-dimensional view of a portion of the fins as seen from the front.

[0060] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view viewed in the direction of arrow II.

[0061] Figure 6 This is an enlarged front view of the notch in the fins, viewed from the front.

[0062] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the central portion of a part of the fin in the left-right direction.

[0063] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view showing the insertion direction of the porous tube relative to the openings in the vertical direction before bending the multiple fins.

[0064] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of a clamp.

[0065] Figure 10 This is a magnified three-dimensional view of a portion of the fins as seen from the rear.

[0066] Figure 11 This is an enlarged side view showing the first and second protrusions touching each other, viewed from the right side. Detailed Implementation

[0067] The embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0068] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of an air conditioning unit that employs an outdoor heat exchanger as an implementation method. The air conditioning unit 1 is a device capable of cooling and heating indoor spaces such as buildings through a vapor compression refrigeration cycle.

[0069] <Overall Structure of Air Conditioning Unit>

[0070] The air conditioning unit 1 mainly includes an outdoor unit 2, multiple (here, two) indoor units 3, a liquid refrigerant connection pipe 4, and a gaseous refrigerant connection pipe 5. The vapor compression type refrigerant circuit 6 of the air conditioning unit 1 is formed by connecting the outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 through the liquid refrigerant connection pipe 4 and the gaseous refrigerant connection pipe 5.

[0071] Outdoor unit 2 is located outdoors (near the roof or walls of a building) or in a basement, forming part of refrigerant circuit 6. Outdoor unit 2 mainly includes a gas-liquid separator 7, a compressor 8, a four-way switching valve 10, an outdoor heat exchanger 11, an outdoor expansion valve 12, a liquid-side shut-off valve 13, a gas-side shut-off valve 14, and an outdoor fan 15. All devices 7, 8, 10, 11, 15, and valves 12-14 are connected via refrigerant pipes 16-22.

[0072] The indoor unit 3 is located indoors and forms part of the refrigerant circuit 6. The indoor unit 3 mainly includes an indoor expansion valve 3a, an indoor heat exchanger 3b, and an indoor fan 3c.

[0073] <Operation of the air conditioning unit>

[0074] The air conditioning unit 1 operates in both cooling and heating modes.

[0075] During refrigeration operation, the indoor heat exchanger 3b functions as an evaporator, and the outdoor heat exchanger 11 functions as a condenser. Specifically, this is achieved by switching the four-way switching valve 10 to... Figure 1 The solid line indicates that the refrigerant circulates in the order of compressor 8, outdoor heat exchanger 11, outdoor expansion valve 12, indoor expansion valve 3a, and indoor heat exchanger 3b.

[0076] During heating operation, the indoor heat exchanger 3b functions as a condenser, and the outdoor heat exchanger 11 functions as an evaporator. Specifically, this is achieved by switching the four-way switching valve 10 to... Figure 1 The state shown by the dashed line causes the refrigerant to circulate in the order of compressor 8, indoor heat exchanger 3b, indoor expansion valve 3a, outdoor expansion valve 12, and outdoor heat exchanger 11.

[0077] <Outdoor heat exchanger>

[0078] Figure 2 This is a schematic structural diagram of the outdoor heat exchanger 11. The outdoor heat exchanger 11 is a heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air. The outdoor heat exchanger 11 mainly includes a heat exchange section 30, a first manifold 31, and a second manifold 32.

[0079] The heat exchange section 30 has in Figure 2 Multiple porous tubes 40 spaced apart in the vertical direction, and in Figure 2 Multiple fins 50 are spaced apart in the left and right directions.

[0080] Both the first manifold 31 and the second manifold 32 are longitudinally elongated, hollow cylindrical components. Multiple perforated tubes 40 are inserted into one end of the first manifold 31. Multiple perforated tubes 40 are inserted into the other end of the second manifold 32. One end and the other end of each perforated tube 40 are fixed to the first manifold 31 and the second manifold 32 by brazing or the like.

[0081] Refrigerant flowing into one of the internal spaces of the first manifold 31 and the second manifold 32 flows through the perforated pipe 40 to the other internal space. Air is circulated by the outdoor fan 15 (see reference). Figure 1 )exist Figure 2 The air passes vertically between adjacent porous tubes 40 and adjacent fins 50. This allows for heat exchange between the air passing through and the refrigerant flowing within the porous tubes 40.

[0082] <Heat Exchange Section>

[0083] Figure 3 It means Figure 2 An enlarged perspective view of a portion of the heat exchange section 30 shown. In the following description, [the following will be...]. Figure 3 The first direction X is defined as the front-back direction, the second direction Y as the left-right direction, and the third direction Z as the up-down direction. The first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z are orthogonal to each other.

[0084] The porous tube 40 of the heat exchange section 30 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a flat tube formed by extrusion molding. The porous tube 40 extends in the front-rear direction X. The porous tube 40 has a pair of planar main surfaces 41 formed on the upper and lower sides respectively, and a pair of arc-shaped side surfaces 42 formed on the left and right sides respectively. Inside the porous tube 40, a plurality of small flow paths 43 for refrigerant flow are formed in the left-right direction Y.

[0085] The fins 50 of the heat exchange section 30 are plate members extending in the vertical direction Z, and have a predetermined width in the air passage direction (left-right direction Y). In this embodiment, the fins 50 are stamped parts. The fins 50 have a plurality of openings 51 formed at intervals in the vertical direction Z. Each opening 51 in this embodiment is a hole formed through the fin 50 in the plate thickness direction (front-back direction X). Each opening 51 is formed at the middle portion of the fin 50 in the left-right direction Y, extending longer in the left-right direction Y.

[0086] A porous tube 40 is inserted into each opening 51 of the fin 50. Additionally, in Figure 3 The diagram shows the porous tube 40 inserted into the opening 51 at point 2 of the fin 50; illustrations of the porous tube 40 inserted into other openings 51 are omitted. The porous tube 40 is inserted into the openings 51 formed at the same height position in each of the plurality of fins 50.

[0087] <Bent section of fin>

[0088] The fin 50 has multiple bends 52. These bends 52 bend towards the front-rear direction X at the locations of multiple openings 51 in the vertical direction Z. A "bend" refers to a region A1 (see reference) that has curvature due to the bending of the fin 50. Figure 11 In addition, the curvature of the curved section is set to an arbitrary value.

[0089] Multiple bends 52 are formed by alternately bending the fins 50 in opposite directions (forward and backward). Specifically, the multiple bends 52 have a predetermined number of first bends 52A and a predetermined number of second bends 52B. The first bends 52A bend towards the front side (one side) in the forward-backward direction X. The second bends 52B bend towards the rear side (the other side) in the forward-backward direction X. Hereinafter, the common aspects of the first bends 52A and the second bends 52B will be described, and they will be collectively referred to as bends 52.

[0090] Figure 4 This is a partial view of fin 50 from the front. Figure 3 A magnified 3D image. Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view is viewed in the direction of arrow II. The curved portion 52 has a first portion 521 and a second portion 522 formed on both sides of the opening 51 of the fin 50 in the left-right direction Y. The first portion 521 is formed on the left side of the opening 51 of the fin 50. The second portion 522 is formed on the right side of the opening 51 of the fin 50. The first portion 521 is formed in a line-symmetrical manner with respect to a center line C1, which extends in the front-back direction X of the opening 51. The second portion 522 is also formed in a line-symmetrical manner with respect to a center line C1.

[0091] As described above, since the curved portion 52 bends towards the front-rear direction X at the positions of each opening 51 in the vertical direction Z, the width W1 of each opening 51 in the vertical direction Z of the fin 50 is smaller after the formation of the curved portion 52 than before the formation of the curved portion 52. Therefore, the width W1 of each opening 51 before the formation of the curved portion 52 is pre-formed to be larger. Before the formation of the curved portion 52, the porous tube 40 is inserted into the opening 51 with a larger width W1 (see reference). Figure 8 The width W1 of each opening 51 after the bend 52 is formed is equal to the thickness H in the vertical Z direction of the porous tube 40 (see reference). Figure 3 They are roughly the same size.

[0092] <Flat portion of the fin>

[0093] like Figure 3As shown, the fin 50 has a plurality of flat portions 53 formed between adjacent first curved portions 52A and second curved portions 52B in the vertical direction Z. A "flat portion" refers to a region A2 (see reference 2) that does not have curvature even when the fin 50 is bent. Figure 11 The plurality of flat portions 53 have a predetermined number of first flat portions 53A and a predetermined number of second flat portions 53B. The first flat portions 53A extend obliquely rearward and downward from the first curved portion 52A toward the second curved portion 52B. The second flat portions 53B extend obliquely forward and downward from the second curved portion 52B toward the first curved portion 52A. Hereinafter, the commonalities of the first flat portions 53A and the second flat portions 53B will be described, and they will be collectively referred to as flat portions 53.

[0094] The fin 50 is formed into a V-shape by each curved portion 52 and a pair of flat portions 53 adjacent to the curved portions 52 vertically. In addition, the shape of the fin 50 is not limited to that of this embodiment. For example, the fin 50 may not have flat portions 53, and may be formed into a wave shape by alternating continuous connection of the first curved portion 52A and the second curved portion 52B.

[0095] The fins 50 have first fins 54 and second fins 55 spaced apart in the left-right direction Y at each flat portion 53. The first fin 54 is formed by cutting a portion of the left side of the flat portion 53 forward. The second fin 55 is formed by cutting a portion of the right side of the flat portion 53 forward. The spacing between adjacent fins 50 is defined by abutting the cut ends of the first fins 54 and the second fins 55 against the flat portions 53 of the adjacent fins 50.

[0096] <Fin notch>

[0097] like Figure 4 As shown, the fin 50 has a notch 56 cut out in the left-right direction Y at each bend 52. A "notch" refers to a recessed portion formed by cutting off a part of the bend 52. The notch 56 can be formed as a wide notch in the vertical direction Z as in this embodiment, or it can be formed as a narrow notch in the vertical direction Z as a slit.

[0098] The notch 56 has a first notch 56A formed in the first portion 521 of the bend 52 and a second notch 56B formed in the second portion 522 of the bend 52. The first notch 56A is cut out from the left edge of the opening 51 of the fin 50 toward the left. The second notch 56B is cut out from the right edge of the opening 51 of the fin 50 toward the right. Hereinafter, when describing the commonalities of the first notch 56A and the second notch 56B, they will be collectively referred to as notch 56.

[0099] Figure 6This is an enlarged front view of the notch 56 in the fin 50, viewed from the front. The notch 56 is formed in a line-symmetrical manner, separated by a center line C2, which extends along the left-right direction Y of the opening 51. In this embodiment, the notch 56 is cut into a U-shape with a relatively wide width W2 in the vertical direction Z. The width W2 of the notch 56 is smaller than the width W1 of the opening 51 in the vertical direction Z.

[0100] In this embodiment, the notch 56 is cut from the edge of the opening 51, but it can also be cut from the outer edge (right or left edge of the fin 50) of the curved portion 52 in the left-right direction Y toward the opening 51.

[0101] <Fin Clamp>

[0102] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the central portion of a part of fin 50 in the left-right direction (Y). Fin 50 has a plurality of clamps 57 formed along the edge of each opening 51 in a forward-backward direction (X) (see also...). Figure 4 Additionally, in Figure 7 The illustration of the second winglet 55 is omitted (for...). Figure 8 and Figure 9 Similarly). Multiple clamps 57 are formed, for example, by flanging the fins 50.

[0103] The plurality of clamps 57 have a predetermined number of first clamps 57A and a predetermined number of second clamps 57B. The first clamps 57A are formed at the edge of the opening 51 corresponding to the first curved portion 52A. The second clamps 57B are formed at the edge of the opening 51 corresponding to the second curved portion 52B.

[0104] The first clamp 57A stands upright from the edge of the opening 51 in the direction opposite to the bending direction (front side) of the first curved portion 52A, i.e., the rear side. The second clamp 57B stands upright from the edge of the opening 51 in the direction opposite to the bending direction (rear side) of the second curved portion 52B, i.e., the front side. "Standing upright towards the rear (front side)" includes not only the case where it stands straight towards the rear (front side), but also the case where it stands diagonally upward or downward towards the rear (front side). Hereinafter, when describing the common aspects of the first clamp 57A and the second clamp 57B, they will be collectively referred to as clamp 57.

[0105] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the clamp 57 has a first clamp portion 571 and a second clamp portion 572 arranged at the edges on both sides of the opening 51 in the left-right direction Y, spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction Z. In this embodiment, the first clamp portion 571 and the second clamp portion 572 are arranged with a notch 56 between them in the vertical direction Z.

[0106] The first clamp portion 571 has a straight portion 571a and a pair of arc portions 571b formed on the left and right sides of the straight portion 571a.

[0107] The straight section 571a extends along the upper edge of the opening 51 in the left-right direction Y. The lower surface of the straight section 571a faces the upper main surface 41 of the porous tube 40 inserted into the opening 51.

[0108] The left-side arcuate portion 571b extends along the edge of the opening 51 from the left end of the straight portion 57a ​​to the upper end of the opening of the first notch 56A. The right-side arcuate portion 571b extends along the edge of the opening 51 from the right end of the straight portion 571a to the upper end of the opening of the second notch 56B. The inner circumferential surface of each arcuate portion 571b is respectively opposed to the upper half of the side surfaces 42 on the left and right sides of the porous tube 40 inserted into the opening 51.

[0109] The second clamp portion 572 has a straight portion 572a and a pair of arc portions 572b formed on the left and right sides of the straight portion 572a.

[0110] The straight section 572a extends in the left-right direction Y along the lower edge of the opening 51. The lower surface of the straight section 572a faces the main surface 41 of the lower side of the porous tube 40 inserted into the opening 51.

[0111] The left-side arcuate portion 572b extends along the edge of the opening 51 from the left end of the straight portion 572a to the lower end of the opening of the first notch 56A. The right-side arcuate portion 572b extends along the edge of the opening 51 from the right end of the straight portion 572a to the lower end of the opening of the second notch 56B. The inner circumferential surface of each arcuate portion 572b is respectively opposed to the lower half of the left and right side surfaces 42 of the porous tube 40 inserted into the opening 51.

[0112] like Figure 7 As shown, with the fin 50 bent, the end of the first clamp portion 571 contacts the upper main surface 41 of the porous tube 40 inserted into the opening 51 of the first clamp portion 571 formed at the edge. The end of the second clamp portion 572 contacts the lower main surface 41 of the porous tube 40 inserted into the opening 51 of the second clamp portion 572 formed at the edge. Furthermore, in Figure 6 For ease of explanation, the ends of the first clamp portion 571 and the second clamp portion 572 are slightly separated from the main surfaces 41 of the upper and lower sides of the porous tube 40.

[0113] Figure 8This is a cross-sectional view showing the insertion direction of the porous tube 40 relative to each opening 51 in the vertical direction Z before bending the multiple fins 50. In the state before bending the multiple fins 50 (before the formation of the bend 52), the porous tube 40 is inserted toward the upright direction of the clamp 57.

[0114] Specifically, in the opening 51 of the first clamp 57A formed at the edge, the porous tube 40 is inserted from the foremost fin 50 of the plurality of fins 50 toward the fin 50 arranged behind it.

[0115] In the opening 51 of the second clamp 57B formed at the edge, which stands upright to the front, the porous tube 40 is inserted from the fin 50 arranged on the rearmost side of the plurality of fins 50 toward the fin 50 arranged on its front side.

[0116] like Figure 6 As shown, when the porous tube 40 is inserted into each opening 51 of the fin 50, the straight portions 571a and 572a on the upper and lower sides of the clamp 57 and the arc portions 571b and 572b on the left and right sides have the function of guiding the porous tube 40.

[0117] In this embodiment, the lower main surface 41 of the porous tube 40 is prone to come into contact with the lower straight portion 571a of the clamp 57 due to the weight of the porous tube 40. In this case, the function of guiding the lower main surface 41 of the porous tube 40 by using the lower straight portion 571a of the clamp 57 is effective.

[0118] In Figure 6 When the fins 50 are arranged in a vertical configuration as shown in the diagram, and the porous tube 40 is inserted, the lower side 42 of the porous tube 40 is prone to contact with the lower arcuate portions 571b and 572b of the clamp 57 due to the weight of the porous tube 40. In this case, the function of guiding the lower side 42 of the porous tube 40 by means of the arcuate portions 571b and 572b of the clamp 57 is effective.

[0119] like Figure 7 As shown, the porous tube 40 inserted into each opening 51 is fixed to the corresponding clamp 57 by brazing after each fin 50 is bent (forming a bent portion 52).

[0120] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of clamp 57. In this modified example, the multiple clamps 57 only have the first clamp 57A and do not have the second clamp 57B (see reference). Figure 7Specifically, the plurality of clamps 57 are formed to stand upright rearward from the edge of the opening 51 corresponding only to the first bend 52A. In this modified example, the porous tube 40 is inserted only into the opening 51 where the clamps 57 are formed at the edge. The insertion direction of the porous tube 40 is the same as in the case described above where the porous tube 40 is inserted into the opening 51 where the first clamp 57A is formed at the edge (see reference). Figure 8 ).

[0121] In this variation, the multiple clamps 57 may only have a first clamp 57A, but it may also only have a second clamp 57B. In this case, the porous tube 40 is inserted only into the opening 51 where the clamp 57 is formed at the edge. The insertion direction of the porous tube 40 is the same as in the above embodiment where the porous tube 40 is inserted into the opening 51 where the second clamp 57B is formed at the edge (see reference). Figure 8 ).

[0122] <Protrusions on the fins>

[0123] Figure 10 This is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the fin 50 viewed from the rear. The fin 50 has a plurality of protrusions 58, which are arranged to project rearward in a forward-rear direction X near the bend 52. The protrusions 58 have a bending angle θ (refer to...) for the bend 52. Figure 11 The function is limited to a specified angle. Protrusion 58, for example, is formed by stamping to make a portion of fin 50 protrude.

[0124] In this embodiment, the protrusion 58 is only provided near the first curved portion 52A, and not near the second curved portion 52B (see reference). Figure 4 The protrusions 58 are respectively provided on the left and right sides of the opening 51 corresponding to the first curved portion 52A near the first portion 521 and the second portion 522 of the first curved portion 52A. Since the protrusions 58 provided near the first portion 521 and the second portion 522 have the same structure, the protrusions 58 provided near the first portion 521 will be described in the following description.

[0125] The protrusion 58 disposed near the first portion 521 has a first protrusion 58A and a second protrusion 58B respectively disposed on both sides of the first portion 521 in the vertical direction Z. The first protrusion 58A is formed on the lower side of the first portion 521 in a first flat portion 53A. The second protrusion 58B is formed on the upper side of the first portion 521 in a second flat portion 53B.

[0126] The first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B abut against each other, thereby limiting the bending angle θ of the first curved portion 52A at a predetermined angle. Furthermore, in Figure 10For ease of explanation, the first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B are separated from each other.

[0127] Figure 11 This is an enlarged side view, viewed from the right side, showing the first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B in contact with each other. The first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B are formed with the same shape. Furthermore, the first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B are linearly symmetrical, separated by the center line C1 of the opening 51, which is the center line that bisects the bending angle θ of the first curved portion 52A. The first protrusion 58A has a first surface 61, a second surface 62, a third surface 63, a fourth surface 64, and a fifth surface 65.

[0128] The first surface 61 forms the upper surface of the first protrusion 58A. The first surface 61 is formed perpendicularly to the rear surface 531 above the rear surface 531 of the first flat portion 53A. The second surface 62 forms the lower surface of the first protrusion 58A. The second surface 62 is formed perpendicularly to the rear surface 531 below the rear surface 531 of the first flat portion 53A. The third surface 63 forms the protruding end face of the first protrusion 58A. The third surface 63 is formed parallel to the rear surface 531 of the first flat portion 53A.

[0129] The fourth surface 64 is configured to connect the first surface 61 and the third surface 63. The fourth surface 64 is inclined at, for example, 45° relative to the rear surface 531 of the first flat portion 53A. The fifth surface 65 is configured to connect the second surface 62 and the third surface 63. The fifth surface 65 is inclined at, for example, 45° relative to the rear surface 531 of the first flat portion 53A, and is inclined in the opposite direction relative to the fourth surface 64.

[0130] The second protrusion 58B has a first surface 71, a second surface 72, a third surface 73, a fourth surface 74, and a fifth surface 75.

[0131] The first surface 71 forms the lower surface of the second protrusion 58B. The first surface 71 is formed perpendicularly to the rear surface 532 of the second flat portion 53B, below it. The second surface 72 forms the upper surface of the second protrusion 58B. The second surface 72 is formed perpendicularly to the rear surface 532 of the second flat portion 53B, above it. The third surface 73 forms the protruding end face of the second protrusion 58B. The third surface 73 is formed parallel to the rear surface 532 of the second flat portion 53B.

[0132] The fourth surface 74 is configured to connect the first surface 71 and the third surface 73. The fourth surface 74 is inclined at 45° relative to the rear surface 532 of the second flat portion 53B. The fifth surface 75 is configured to connect the second surface 72 and the third surface 73. The fifth surface 75 is inclined at 45° relative to the rear surface 532 of the second flat portion 53B, and is inclined in the opposite direction relative to the fourth surface 74.

[0133] With the above structure, the fourth surface 64 of the first protrusion 58A and the fourth surface 74 of the second protrusion 58B serve as... Figure 11 When viewed from the side, the abutting surfaces of the fins 50 shown function on the center line C1 that bisectes the bending angle θ of the first bend 52A. The bending angle θ of the first bend 52A is limited to a predetermined angle (90° in this case) by the abutting surfaces 64 and 74 of the first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B.

[0134] <Effects of the Implementation Method>

[0135] According to this embodiment, the width W1 of the opening 51 of the fin 50 in the vertical direction Z is smaller after the bending portion 52 is formed than before the bending portion 52 is formed. Therefore, the width W1 of the opening 51 before the bending portion 52 is formed can be increased in advance. Thus, by inserting the porous tube 40 into the opening 51 of the fin 50 before the bending portion 52 is formed on the fin 50, the insertion resistance of the porous tube 40 can be reduced. As a result, the porous tube 40 can be easily inserted into the opening 51 of the fin 50, thus facilitating the assembly of the outdoor heat exchanger 11. Furthermore, by bending the fin 50 at the opening 51 to form the bending portion 52 while the porous tube 40 is inserted into the opening 51 of the fin 50, the size of the opening 51 of the fin 50 can be reduced. As a result, the gap between the porous tube 40 and the edge of the opening 51 of the fin 50 becomes smaller, thus improving thermal conductivity.

[0136] Each curved portion 52 is bent into a V-shape at the corresponding opening 51, thus the curved portion 52 can be easily formed.

[0137] In each bend 52, a notch 56 is cut in the left-right direction Y. As a result, the fin 50 is easy to bend, and therefore, the bend 52 can be formed more easily.

[0138] The width W2 of the notch 56 in the vertical direction Z is smaller than the width W1 of the opening 51 in the vertical direction Z. Therefore, the reduction in the heat transfer area of ​​the fin 50 due to the formation of the notch 56 in the fin 50 can be suppressed, and thus the reduction in thermal conductivity can be suppressed.

[0139] The notch 56 has a first notch 56A formed in the first portion 521 and a second notch 56B formed in the second portion 522 on both sides of the bend 52 in the left-right direction Y. As a result, the fin 50 becomes easier to bend, and therefore, the bend 52 can be formed more easily.

[0140] The first notch 56A and the second notch 56B are cut out from the left and right edges of the opening 51, respectively. As a result, the fin 50 becomes easier to bend, and thus, the bent portion 52 can be formed more easily.

[0141] The clamp 57 has a first clamp portion 571 and a second clamp portion 572 arranged in the vertical direction Z with a notch 56 between them. Therefore, the porous tube 40 inserted into the opening 51 of the fin 50 can be easily installed on the fin 50 by brazing it to the clamp. On the other hand, when the clamp 57 is formed along the entire edge of the opening 51 of the fin 50, the fin 50 is difficult to bend. However, since the clamp 57 is divided into a first clamp portion 571 and a second clamp portion 572 in the vertical direction Z with a notch 56 between them, the fin 50 can be easily bent.

[0142] Clamps 57 (first clamp 57A and second clamp 57B) are formed at the edges of the openings 51 of the fin 50, corresponding to the first bend 52A and the second bend 52B, respectively. Thus, by brazing, the porous tube 40 inserted into each opening 51 of the fin 50 is fixed to the clamps 57, making it easy to install the porous tube 40 onto the fin 50. On the other hand, when the clamps 57 are formed along the entire edge of the opening 51 of the fin 50, it is difficult to bend the fin 50. However, in this embodiment, the first clamp portion 571 and the second clamp portion 572 of the clamps 57 are arranged with a gap between them at the edges of the openings 51 on the left and right sides of the fin 50, thus allowing the fin 50 to be bent easily.

[0143] The arcuate portions 571b and 572b at the gap-side ends of the first clamp portion 571 and the second clamp portion 572 face the side surface 42 of the porous tube 40. Therefore, when the porous tube 40 is inserted into the opening 51 of the fin 50, the arcuate portions 571b and 572b of the first clamp portion 571 and the second clamp portion 572 can guide the side surface 42 of the porous tube 40.

[0144] Since the clamp 57 is in contact with the porous tube 40 inserted into the opening 51 formed on the edge of the clamp 57, the thermal conductivity can be improved.

[0145] exist Figure 9 In the modified example shown, all the clamps 57 stand in the same direction at the edge of the opening 51 corresponding to the first curved portion 52A that bends in the same direction (front side), so that the fin 50 can be easily manufactured.

[0146] exist Figure 9In the modified example shown, the porous tube 40 is inserted only into the opening 51 where the clamp 57 is formed at the edge. Therefore, since clamps 57 are formed at the edges of all openings 51 for inserting the porous tube 40, the clamps 57 can guide the porous tube 40 when it is inserted into the opening 51. Furthermore, multiple porous tubes 40 can be inserted into each opening 51 with all facing the same direction (from front to back). As a result, the assembly of the outdoor heat exchanger 11 can be made easier.

[0147] The fin 50 has a protrusion 58 that protrudes in the front-rear direction X near the bend 52. When the fin 50 is bent, the first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B of the protrusion 58 abut against each other, thereby limiting the bending angle θ of the first bend 52A at a predetermined angle. Thus, excessive bending of the fin 50 can be suppressed.

[0148] The protrusions 58 are respectively provided on both sides of the opening 51 in the left-right direction Y. Therefore, when bending the fin 50, the protrusions 58 on both sides can be used to limit the bending angle θ of the bending portion 52 at a predetermined angle. As a result, excessive bending on one side of the opening 51 of the fin 50 in the left-right direction Y can be suppressed.

[0149] Since the protrusions 58 are only provided near the first curved portion 52A that bends in the same direction (front side), all the protrusions 58 can protrude in the same direction (rear side). As a result, the fins 50 can be manufactured easily.

[0150] The first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B have fourth surfaces 64 and 74 that abut against each other. When the fin 50 is bent, since the fourth surfaces 64 and 74 of the first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B abut against each other, the abutment accuracy between the first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B can be improved compared to the case where the first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B abut against each other at a point or along a line.

[0151] The first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 5B are linearly symmetrical, separated by the center line C1 that bisects the bending angle θ of the bent portion 52. When the fin 50 is bent, the fourth surface 64 of the first protrusion 58A and the fourth surface 74 of the second protrusion 58B abut against each other on the center line C1 that bisects the bending angle θ of the bent portion 52. Thus, when the fourth surfaces 64 and 74 abut against each other, the load applied to the fin 50 via the first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B can be made equal.

[0152] Since the first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B have the same shape, the first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B can be easily formed.

[0153] <Other variations>

[0154] In the above embodiment, the opening 51 of the fin 50 is formed in the middle portion of the fin 50, but it may also be formed biased towards one side in the left-right direction (Y). Furthermore, the opening 51 of the fin 50 in the above embodiment is not limited to a hole. For example, the opening 51 may be U-shaped, opening at one end of the fin 50 in the left-right direction (Y). In this case, a curved portion 52 and a notch 56 are formed only at the other end of the fin 50 in the left-right direction (Y).

[0155] The fin 50 in the above embodiment has a notch 56, but it may also not have a notch 56.

[0156] In the above-described embodiment, both the first clamp portion 571 and the second clamp portion 572 of the clamp 57 have arcuate portions 571b and 572b, but it is sufficient for either one to have an arcuate portion. The clamp 57 of the above-described embodiment contacts the porous tube 40, but it may not necessarily contact the porous tube 40. Furthermore, the first clamp portion 571 may be formed by dividing the straight portion 571a into two or more parts. Similarly, the second clamp portion 572 may also be formed by dividing the straight portion 572a into two or more parts.

[0157] The shape of the protrusion 58 is not limited to the above-described embodiment. For example, the first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B may be formed with the same shape, but they may also be different shapes from each other. In addition, the first protrusion 58A and the second protrusion 58B may be formed in a line symmetrical manner across the center line C1, but it is acceptable as long as at least the fourth surfaces 64 and 74 that abut against each other are formed in a line symmetrical manner across the center line C1.

[0158] The number and location of the protrusions 58 are not limited to the embodiments described above. For example, the protrusions 58 may be provided only on one side of the opening 51 in the left-right direction Y. In addition, the protrusions 58 may be provided near the first curved portion 52A and the second curved portion 52B respectively, or only near the second curved portion 52B. Furthermore, the protrusions 58 have a first protrusion 58A and a second protrusion 58B on the upper and lower sides of the curved portion 52, but may only have a first protrusion 58A or only have a second protrusion 58B. In this case, the bending angle θ of the curved portion 52 can be limited by a predetermined angle by directly abutting the first protrusion 58A (second protrusion 58B) on the lower (upper) side of the curved portion 52 with the second flat portion 53B (first flat portion 53A) on the upper (lower) side of the curved portion 52.

[0159] In the above embodiment, the bending portion 52 that bends towards the front is designated as the first bending portion 52A, and the bending portion 52 that bends towards the rear is designated as the second bending portion 52B. However, it is also possible to designate the bending portion 52 that bends towards the rear as the first bending portion 52A and the bending portion 52 that bends towards the front as the second bending portion 52B. In this case, the protrusion 58 may be provided only near the first bending portion 52A, and no protrusion 58 may be provided near the second bending portion 52B.

[0160] This disclosure is not limited to the examples above, but is shown in the claims and is intended to include all changes within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0161] Label Explanation

[0162] 1. Air conditioning unit

[0163] 11. Outdoor heat exchanger (heat exchanger)

[0164] 40-hole tube

[0165] 42 side view

[0166] 43 flow path

[0167] 50 fins

[0168] 51 opening

[0169] 52 Bend

[0170] 52A First Bend

[0171] 52B Second Bend

[0172] 56 gaps

[0173] 57 clamps

[0174] 57A First Clamp

[0175] 57B Second Clamp

[0176] 58 protrusions

[0177] 58A First Protrusion

[0178] 58B Second Protrusion

[0179] 64, 74, fourth side (contact side)

[0180] 521 Part 1

[0181] 522 Part Two

[0182] 571 First clamp section

[0183] 571b Arc-shaped section (end)

[0184] 572 Second clamp part

[0185] 572b Arc-shaped section (end)

[0186] C1 centerline

[0187] Width of W1, W2

[0188] θ bending angle

Claims

1. A heat exchanger comprising: Fins (50) having openings (51); and A porous tube (40) extends in a first direction and has multiple flow paths (43) formed in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and is inserted into the opening (51). The fin (50) has a curved portion (52) that bends toward the first direction at the position of the opening (51) in a third direction that is orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction, respectively. The fin (50) has a notch (56) formed in the bend (52). The opening (51) is a hole formed in the fin (50). The curved portion (52) has a first portion (521) and a second portion (522) respectively formed on both sides of the opening (51) in the second direction. The gap (56) is formed in the first part (521) and the second part (522), respectively.

2. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, wherein, The notch (56) is cut out in the second direction from the edge of the opening (51).

3. The heat exchanger according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The width (W2) of the notch (56) in the third direction is smaller than the width (W1) of the opening (51) in the third direction.

4. The heat exchanger according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The notches (56) are cut out from the edges on both sides of the opening (51) in the second direction.

5. A heat exchanger comprising: Fins (50) having openings (51); and A porous tube (40) extends in a first direction and has multiple flow paths (43) formed in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and is inserted into the opening (51). The fin (50) has a curved portion (52) that bends toward the first direction at the position of the opening (51) in a third direction that is orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction, respectively. The fin (50) has a notch (56) formed in the bend (52). The notch (56) is cut out in the second direction from the edge of the opening (51). The fin (50) has a clamp (57) formed along the edge of the opening (51) in a manner that stands upright from the edge of the opening (51) in a direction opposite to the bending direction of the bend (52), i.e., one side or the other side of the first direction. The clamp (57) has a first clamp portion (571) and a second clamp portion (572) disposed on the third side with respect to the notch (56).

6. A heat exchanger comprising: Fins (50) having openings (51); and A porous tube (40) extends in a first direction and has multiple flow paths (43) formed in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and is inserted into the opening (51). The fin (50) has a curved portion (52) that bends toward the first direction at the position of the opening (51) in a third direction that is orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction, respectively. The fin (50) has a clamp (57) formed along the edge of the opening (51) in a manner that stands upright from the edge of the opening (51) in a direction opposite to the bending direction of the bend (52), i.e., one side or the other side of the first direction. The clamp (57) has a first clamp portion (571) and a second clamp portion (572) disposed at the edge of the opening (51) in the second direction, which are spaced apart from each other.

7. The heat exchanger according to claim 6, wherein, The end of at least one of the first clamp portion (571) and the second clamp portion (572) on the gap side is opposite to the side surface (42) of the porous tube (40) in the second direction.

8. The heat exchanger according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The fins (50) have: The plurality of openings (51) formed by the upward spacing of the third party; and The multiple curved portions (52) are bent at the locations of the multiple openings (51) facing the third direction and are alternately bent in opposite directions. The plurality of said curved portions (52) have a predetermined number of first curved portions (52A) that bend toward one side of the first direction and a predetermined number of second curved portions (52B) that bend toward the other side of the first direction. The clamp (57) is formed along the edge of the opening (51) corresponding to at least one of a predetermined number of first bends (52A) and a predetermined number of second bends (52B).

9. The heat exchanger according to claim 8, wherein, The clamp (57) stands out from the edge of the opening (51) corresponding only to a predetermined number of the first bends (52A) toward the other side in the first direction, or stands out from the edge of the opening (51) corresponding only to a predetermined number of the second bends (52B) toward the side in the first direction.

10. The heat exchanger according to claim 9, wherein, The porous tube (40) is inserted only into the opening (51) where the clamp (57) is formed at the edge.

11. The heat exchanger according to claim 8, wherein, The clamp (57) has: A first clamp (57A) rises from the edge of the opening (51) corresponding to a predetermined number of the first curved portions (52A) toward the other side in the first direction; and A second clamp (57B) rises from the edge of the opening (51) corresponding to a predetermined number of the second bends (52B) toward the side in the first direction.

12. The heat exchanger according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The clamp (57) contacts the porous tube (40) inserted into the opening (51) on which the clamp (57) is formed at the edge.

13. A heat exchanger comprising: Fins (50) having openings (51); and A porous tube (40) extends in a first direction and has multiple flow paths (43) formed in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and is inserted into the opening (51). The fin (50) has a curved portion (52) that bends toward the first direction at the position of the opening (51) in a third direction that is orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction, respectively. The fin (50) has a protrusion (58) that is provided protruding to one side in the first direction near the bend (52) to limit the bending angle (θ) of the bend (52) by a predetermined angle.

14. The heat exchanger according to claim 13, wherein, The protrusion (58) has a first protrusion (58A) and a second protrusion (58B), the first protrusion (58A) and the second protrusion (58B) being disposed on both sides of the third direction of the curved portion (52) of the fin (50), and limiting the bending angle (θ) of the curved portion (52) at the predetermined angle by abutting against each other.

15. The heat exchanger according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, The opening (51) is a hole formed in the fin (50). The protrusions (58) are respectively disposed on both sides of the opening (51) in the second direction.

16. The heat exchanger according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, The fins (50) have: The plurality of openings (51) formed by the upward spacing of the third party; and The multiple curved portions (52) are bent at the locations of the multiple openings (51) facing the third direction and are alternately bent in opposite directions. The plurality of said curved portions (52) have a predetermined number of first curved portions (52A) that bend toward one side of the first direction and a predetermined number of second curved portions (52B) that bend toward the other side of the first direction. The protrusion (58) is disposed near a predetermined number of the first curved portions (52A) but not near a predetermined number of the second curved portions (52B).

17. The heat exchanger according to claim 14, wherein, The first protrusion (58A) and the second protrusion (58B) each have abutting surfaces (64, 74) that abut against each other.

18. The heat exchanger according to claim 17, wherein, The contact surface (64) of the first protrusion (58A) and the contact surface (74) of the second protrusion (58B) are formed in a line symmetrical manner across a center line (C1), which bisects the bending angle (θ) of the curved portion (52).

19. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 14, 17, and 18, wherein, The first protrusion (58A) and the second protrusion (58B) have the same shape.

20. A heat exchanger comprising: Fins (50) having openings (51); and A porous tube (40) extends in a first direction and has multiple flow paths (43) formed in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and is inserted into the opening (51). The fin (50) has a curved portion (52) that bends toward the first direction at the position of the opening (51) in a third direction that is orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction, respectively. The fin (50) has a protrusion (58) that protrudes to one side in the first direction near the bend (52). The protrusion (58) has a first protrusion (58A) and a second protrusion (58B), the first protrusion (58A) and the second protrusion (58B) being disposed on both sides of the third direction of the curved portion (52) of the fin (50) and abutting against each other.

21. An air conditioning device comprising a heat exchanger as described in any one of claims 1, 2, 5 to 7, 13, 14, 17, 18, and 20.

Images