Heat exchanger

Abstract

A heat exchanger includes: an upper end group and a lower end group; a plurality of intermediate plate-like groups vertically stacked between the upper end group and the lower end group defining a working fluid region and an exchange fluid region, where the working fluid region is in fluid communication with the working fluid inlet mouth and the working fluid outlet mouth and includes a planar working fluid section, and the working fluid section is in fluid communication with the working fluid inlet mouth and the working fluid outlet mouth. The exchange fluid area is in fluid communication with the exchange fluid inlet nozzle and the exchange fluid outlet nozzle and comprises a planar exchange fluid section; the middle plate-shaped group comprises a first plate-shaped unit and a second plate-shaped unit which respectively comprise a pair of first plate-shaped elements and a pair of second plate-shaped elements, and each pair of plate-shaped elements defines a planar working fluid section; wherein the first plate-like unit comprises first conduits extending through the planar working fluid section between a pair of first plate-like elements; the second plate-like unit includes second conduits extending through the planar working fluid section between a pair of second plate-like elements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a heat exchanger.

[0002] In particular, the invention belongs to the automotive field. Background Art

[0003] Heat exchanger solutions are known from the prior art which find particular application in vehicles, the purpose of which is to manage the temperature of a given fluid circulating in the system of the vehicle.

[0004] In more detail, the heat exchanger is adapted to perform a heat exchanging operation between two fluids, ie, between a working fluid and an exchange fluid.

[0005] Preferably, the exchange fluid is oil which circulates in one or more operating groups of the vehicle (eg gearbox group, transmission group, engine group) in order to manage the temperature of the operating group.

[0006] According to an alternative embodiment, the exchange fluid is a refrigerant fluid. For example, the refrigerant fluid refers to one of the fluids commonly used in refrigeration cycles (such as R134a, R544, R290, R518, R515, R1234yfa or R1234yf).

[0007] Preferably, the working fluid is a water-based liquid.

[0008] Managing the temperature of the operating group in the best possible way improves the efficiency of the operating group and extends its life cycle, thereby improving the performance and life cycle of the entire vehicle.

[0009] Therefore, it is increasingly desirable to manage the temperature of each operating group in the best possible way by providing specific components such as heat exchangers.

[0010] Therefore, it is also increasingly desirable to have very efficient heat exchangers, ie suitable for efficient heat exchange between a working fluid and an exchange fluid. Summary of the invention

[0011] There is therefore a keenly felt need to provide a heat exchanger that meets the described needs.

[0012] An object of the present invention is to provide a heat exchanger with high efficiency of heat exchange.

[0013] This object is achieved by a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger includes a longitudinal axis, a transverse axis and a vertical axis, and includes a working fluid inlet nozzle and a working fluid outlet nozzle and an exchange fluid inlet nozzle and an exchange fluid outlet nozzle, wherein the heat exchanger includes: - an upper end group and a lower end group, wherein the working fluid inlet nozzle, the working fluid outlet nozzle, the exchange fluid inlet nozzle and the exchange fluid outlet nozzle are obtained on the upper end group and the lower end group respectively; - a plurality of intermediate plate-shaped groups, which are vertically stacked between the upper end group and the lower end group to define a working fluid area and an exchange fluid area, wherein the working fluid area is fluidly connected to the working fluid inlet nozzle and the working fluid outlet nozzle and includes a planar working fluid section, and the exchange fluid The body area is fluidly connected to the exchange fluid inlet mouth and the exchange fluid outlet mouth and includes a planar exchange fluid segment; wherein the intermediate plate group includes a first plate unit and a second plate unit, the first plate unit and the second plate unit respectively include a pair of first plate elements and a pair of second plate elements, each pair of plate elements in the pair of first plate elements and the pair of second plate elements defines the planar working fluid segment; wherein each of the first plate units includes a plurality of first pipes, which extend through the planar working fluid segment located between the pair of first plate elements; wherein each of the second plate units includes a plurality of second pipes, which extend through the planar working fluid segment located between the pair of second plate elements. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred exemplary embodiment of the invention given by way of non-limiting illustration with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] - Figure 1 shows a partially broken away perspective view of a heat exchanger according to the invention according to a preferred embodiment;

[0016] - Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A top view of a heat exchanger in FIG.

[0017] - Figure 3a and Figure 3b The heat exchanger is shown according to Figure 2 Two cross-sectional views of sections AA and BB;

[0018] - Figure 3c and Figure 3d The heat exchanger is shown according to Figure 3a Two cross-sectional views of sections CC and DD;

[0019] - Figure 3e and Figure 3f They are shown according to Figure 3d Two cross-sectional views of the heat exchanger in sections EE and FF;

[0020] - Figure 3a '、 Figure 3b '、 Figure 3e 'and Figure 3f ' respectively show Figure 3a , Figure 3b , Figure 3e and Figure 3f enlarged views of some parts of

[0021] - Figure 4 shows a partially separated perspective view of a heat exchanger according to the present invention according to another preferred embodiment;

[0022] - Figure 5 Shows Figure 4 A top view of a heat exchanger in FIG.

[0023] - Figure 6a and Figure 6b The heat exchanger is shown according to Figure 5 Two cross-sectional views of sections AA and BB;

[0024] - Figure 6c Shows the heat exchanger according to Figure 6b A cross-sectional view of section CC in FIG.

[0025] - Figure 6d and Figure 6e The heat exchanger is shown according to Figure 6c Two cross-sectional views of sections DD and EE;

[0026] - Figure 6a '、 Figure 6b '、 Figure 6d 'and Figure 6e ' respectively show Figure 6a , Figure 6b , Figure 6d and Figure 6e Magnified views of some parts of the . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] 1. Referring to the drawings, reference numeral 1 denotes a heat exchanger of a thermal management system of a vehicle according to the present invention.

[0028] The heat exchanger 1 is suitable for performing heat exchange between a working fluid (preferably a water-based liquid or oil or a dielectric fluid or gas) and an exchange fluid (preferably a refrigerant fluid or gas), each fluid circulating in a respective circuit of the vehicle. Preferably, the refrigerant fluid is a fluid selected from R134a, R544, R290, R518, R515, R1234yfa, R1234yf or R744.

[0029] In practice, the heat exchanger 1 can be connected to two circuits so that both a working fluid and an exchange fluid flow in the heat exchanger.

[0030] According to the invention, the heat exchanger 1 comprises a longitudinal axis XX, a transverse axis YY and a vertical axis VV. The longitudinal axis XX and the transverse axis YY lie on the same imaginary plane orthogonal to the vertical axis VV.

[0031] It is emphasized that in this discussion, the position of the axis and the related definitions of the position of components relative to the axis (e.g., "upper" or "lower") are selected as conventions relative to the accompanying drawings and are not restrictive relative to the position of use of the heat exchanger 1 on the vehicle, unless otherwise stated.

[0032] According to the present invention, the heat exchanger 1 includes a working fluid inlet nozzle 2110 and a working fluid outlet nozzle 2120 through which the working fluid flows in and out.

[0033] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the heat exchanger 1 includes an exchange fluid inlet nozzle 2210 and an exchange fluid outlet nozzle 2220 through which the exchange fluid flows in and out.

[0034] The heat exchanger 1 comprises end groups 3 , 5 and an intermediate plate-like group 4 .

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment, the end group comprises an upper end group 3 and a lower end group 5 .

[0036] Preferably, the upper end group 3 is of plate-like type.

[0037] Preferably, the lower end set 5 is of plate-like type.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment, the heat exchanger 1 comprises an exchanger body in which the intermediate plate-like group can be accommodated, and wherein the exchanger body comprises at least one end group. For example, the plate-like upper end group 3 and / or the lower end group 5 are included in the wall of the exchanger body. In other words, the plate-like upper end group 3 and / or the lower end group 5 are the walls of the exchanger body.

[0039] According to a preferred embodiment, the exchanger body is made of a material belonging to the polymeric material family.Preferably, the upper end group 3 and / or the lower end group 5 comprised in the exchanger body are at least partially made of said material belonging to the polymeric material family.

[0040] The heat exchanger 1 is obtained by combining said preferably plate-shaped plate-like components which are enclosed in one another along a preferred stacking direction.

[0041] In particular, the heat exchanger 1 extends in height relative to a vertical axis VV, and in longitudinal direction relative to a longitudinal axis XX, and in transverse direction relative to a transverse axis YY.

[0042] Preferably, the plate-like components are stacked parallel to each other along said vertical axis VV. That is, the plate-like components extend longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal axis XX and transversely with respect to the transverse axis YY.

[0043] Preferably, the end groups 3, 5 are axially spaced apart along the vertical axis VV. According to a preferred embodiment, the end group 3 is called the upper end group and the other end group 5 is called the lower end group.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment, the end set comprises a single plate-like element.

[0045] According to an alternative embodiment, at least one or both of these end groups comprises a plurality (for example two or more) of plate-like elements superimposed along the vertical axis VV. For example, the plate-like upper end group 3 comprises three distinct upper plate-like elements 31 .

[0046] According to the invention, inlet mouths 2110 , 2210 and outlet mouths 2120 , 2220 are obtained on said end groups 3 , 5 .

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, all mouths 2110 , 2120 , 2210 , 2220 are obtained on the upper end group 3 .

[0048] According to another preferred embodiment, the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 is obtained on one end group (preferably on the upper end group 3) and the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220 is obtained on the other end group (preferably on the lower end group 5).

[0049] According to the invention, the intermediate plate-like group 4 is of a specific shape, defining in its stack between the upper end group 3 and the lower end group 5 a working fluid region 21 in which a working fluid flows and an exchange fluid region 22 in which an exchange fluid flows.

[0050] The working fluid region 21 is in fluid communication with a working fluid inlet nozzle 2110 and a working fluid outlet nozzle 2120 , and includes a planar working fluid segment 213 .

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment, the working fluid region 21 comprises a planar working fluid section 213 and vertical working fluid sections 211 , 212 of an inlet and an outlet fluidically connected to a working fluid inlet nozzle 2110 and a working fluid outlet nozzle 2120 , respectively.

[0052] Preferably, the vertical working fluid sections 211 , 212 are aligned with the working fluid inlet mouth 2110 and the working fluid outlet mouth 2120 respectively along the vertical axis VV.

[0053] Preferably, the vertical working fluid sections 211, 212 are formed by aligning specific openings included in the plate-like groups.

[0054] Preferably, the planar working fluid segments 213 extend parallel to each other.

[0055] The exchange fluid zone 22 is in fluid communication with an exchange fluid inlet nozzle 2210 and an exchange fluid outlet nozzle 2220 , and includes a planar exchange fluid segment 223 .

[0056] Preferably, the planar fluid exchange sections 223 extend parallel to each other.

[0057] The planar exchange fluid segments 223 are positioned to alternate with the planar working fluid segments 213 .

[0058] According to the present invention, the intermediate plate group 4 comprises a first plate unit 41 and a second plate unit 42, which respectively comprise a pair of first plate elements 411, 412 and a pair of second plate elements 421, 422. Each pair of plate elements defines a planar working fluid section 213.

[0059] The planar fluid exchange section 223 is defined between the first plate-shaped unit 41 and the second plate-shaped unit 42 .

[0060] In other words, each plate-like unit is defined and delimited by the coupling of two plate-like elements.

[0061] According to the invention, each first plate-like unit 41 comprises a plurality of first ducts 415 extending in length between the first plate-like elements 411 , 412 through the planar working fluid section 213 .

[0062] According to the invention, each second plate-shaped unit 42 comprises a plurality of second ducts 425 extending in length between the second plate-shaped elements 421 , 422 through the planar working fluid section 213 .

[0063] According to a preferred embodiment, the first pipe 415 and the second pipe 425 are calibrated channels through which the exchange fluid flows.

[0064] According to a preferred embodiment, the above-mentioned first and second plate-like elements 411 , 412 , 421 , 422 having the features broadly described below are obtained by mechanical molding, cutting and / or bending operations performed from a sheet of metal material, which may preferably be an aluminum alloy.

[0065] According to a preferred embodiment, the first conduit 415 and the second conduit 425 are positioned vertically misaligned with each other.

[0066] Preferably, the exchange fluid is forced to flow vertically in a non-linear path.

[0067] According to a preferred embodiment, the plate-like elements 411, 421 include a planar surface 4119, 4219 positioned in front of each pipe 415, 425 of the adjacent unit, so that the exchange fluid passing through the corresponding pipe 415, 425 flows toward and hits the planar surface 4119, 4219. In other words, the exchange fluid flowing through the pipes of the plate-like unit flows and hits the planar surface included in the next plate-like unit. For example, the exchange fluid flowing in the first pipe 415 included in the first plate-like unit 41 hits the planar surface 4219 included in the second plate-like unit 42, which is arranged downstream in terms of fluid relative to the circulation direction of the exchange fluid in the heat exchanger 1. In addition, the exchange fluid flowing in the second pipe 425 included in the second plate-like unit 42 hits the planar surface 4119 included in the first plate-like unit 41, which is arranged downstream in terms of fluid relative to the circulation direction of the exchange fluid in the heat exchanger 1.

[0068] According to a preferred embodiment, each plate-like element comprises a planar surface located in front of the ducts 415 , 425 .

[0069] According to a preferred embodiment, in front of each duct 415 , 425 , the respective adjacent plate-like element located downstream with respect to the circulation direction of the exchange fluid comprises a plane surface.

[0070] According to a preferred embodiment, the planar surfaces 4119, 4219 are concave, preferably rounded.

[0071] According to a preferred embodiment, said planar surfaces 4119, 4219 are convex.

[0072] According to a preferred embodiment, the first pipes 415 of the first plate-shaped unit 41 are positioned to be aligned in the transverse and longitudinal directions.

[0073] In other words, the first pipes 415 are arranged on nodes of the first imaginary grid.

[0074] According to a preferred embodiment, the second pipes 425 of the second plate-shaped unit 42 are positioned to be aligned in the transverse and longitudinal directions.

[0075] In other words, the second pipes 425 are arranged on nodes of the second imaginary grid.

[0076] Preferably, the first imaginary grid and the second imaginary grid are offset longitudinally and / or laterally.

[0077] According to a preferred embodiment, the diameter of the first conduit 415 is between 1 mm and 3 mm, preferably equal to about 1.5 mm.

[0078] According to a preferred embodiment, the diameter of the second conduit 425 is between 1 mm and 3 mm, preferably equal to about 1.5 mm.

[0079] By identifying the channel cross section of each channel, the channel area is identified as the sum of all channel cross sections of the channels belonging to the plate-like unit.

[0080] According to a preferred embodiment, the channel area influences the movement of the exchange fluid, for example by changing the flow rate and / or flow velocity of the exchange fluid.

[0081] According to a preferred embodiment, the channel area defined by the conduit adjacent to the fluid connection of the exchange fluid inlet nozzle 2210 is larger than the channel area defined by the conduit adjacent to the fluid connection of the exchange fluid outlet nozzle 2220 .

[0082] According to a preferred embodiment, the channel area defined by the conduit adjacent to the fluid connection of the exchange fluid inlet nozzle 2210 is smaller than the channel area defined by the conduit adjacent to the fluid connection of the exchange fluid outlet nozzle 2220 .

[0083] According to a preferred embodiment, the first conduit 415 of a first plate-shaped unit 41 is different in shape from the first conduit 415 of another first plate-shaped unit 41 .

[0084] According to a preferred embodiment, the first conduits 415 of a first plate-shaped unit 41 are different in number from the first conduits 415 of another first plate-shaped unit 41 .

[0085] According to a preferred embodiment, the first conduits 415 of a first plate-like unit 41 are positioned differently from the first conduits 415 of another first plate-like unit 41 .

[0086] According to a preferred embodiment, the second conduit 425 of a second plate-shaped unit 42 is different in shape from the second conduit 425 of another second plate-shaped unit 42 .

[0087] According to a preferred embodiment, the second conduits 425 of a second plate-shaped unit 42 are different in number from the second conduits 425 of another second plate-shaped unit 42 .

[0088] According to a preferred embodiment, the second conduit 425 of a second plate-like unit 42 is positioned differently from the second conduit 425 of another second plate-like unit 42 .

[0089] According to a preferred embodiment, the first conduits 415 of the first plate-shaped unit 41 are different from the second conduits 425 of the second plate-shaped unit 42 in shape and / or number and / or positioning.

[0090] According to a preferred embodiment, the first conduit 415 comprises a first inlet mouth 415' and a first outlet mouth 415", respectively.

[0091] Preferably, the first outlet mouth 415" has a passage cross section equal to or smaller than that of the first inlet mouth 415'.

[0092] Preferably, the first inlet mouth 415' has a circular or elliptical shape.

[0093] Preferably, the first outlet mouth 415" has a circular or elliptical shape.

[0094] Preferably, the first inlet mouth 415' and the first outlet mouth 415" are axially spaced apart.

[0095] Preferably, the first inlet mouth 415 ′ and the first outlet mouth 415 ″ overlap each other in the axial direction along the axis VV.

[0096] Preferably, the first inlet mouth 415 ′ is identified as the inlet port through which the exchange fluid enters the first conduit 415 . Preferably, the first outlet mouth 415 ″ is identified as the outlet port through which the exchange fluid exits the first conduit 415 .

[0097] In a preferred embodiment, the first inlet mouth 415 ′ and / or the first outlet mouth 415 ″ are respectively located on an imaginary plane of the corresponding plate-like element.

[0098] Preferably, the first inlet mouth 415 ′ is located on an imaginary plane relative to which the first (upper) plate-like element 411 extends. Preferably, the first inlet mouth 415 ′ is comprised in the first (upper) plate-like element 411 .

[0099] Preferably, the first outlet mouth 415 ″ is located on an imaginary plane relative to which the first (lower) plate-like element 412 extends. Preferably, the first outlet mouth 415 ″ is included in the first (lower) plate-like element 412 .

[0100] According to a preferred embodiment, the second conduit 425 comprises a second inlet mouth 425' and a second outlet mouth 425", respectively.

[0101] Preferably, the second outlet mouth 425" has a passage cross section equal to or smaller than that of the second inlet mouth 425'.

[0102] Preferably, the second inlet mouth 425' has a circular or elliptical shape.

[0103] Preferably, the second outlet mouth 425" has a circular or elliptical shape.

[0104] Preferably, the second inlet mouth 425' and the second outlet mouth 425" are axially spaced apart.

[0105] Preferably, the second inlet mouth 425 ′ and the second outlet mouth 425 ″ overlap each other in the axial direction along the axis VV.

[0106] Preferably, the second inlet mouth 425 ′ is identified as the inlet port through which the exchange fluid enters the second conduit 425 . Preferably, the second outlet mouth 425 ″ is identified as the outlet port through which the exchange fluid exits the second conduit 425 .

[0107] In a preferred embodiment, the second inlet mouth 425' and / or the second outlet mouth 425" are respectively located on an imaginary plane of the corresponding plate-like element.

[0108] Preferably, the second inlet mouth 425 ′ is located on an imaginary plane relative to which the second (upper) plate-like element 421 extends. Preferably, the second inlet mouth 425 ′ is comprised in the second (upper) plate-like element 421 .

[0109] Preferably, the second outlet mouth 425 ″ is located on an imaginary plane relative to which the second (lower) plate-like element 422 extends. Preferably, the second outlet mouth 425 ″ is included in the second (lower) plate-like element 422 .

[0110] Preferably, the diameter of the first inlet mouth 415' and the first outlet mouth 415" is between 1 mm and 3 mm, preferably equal to about 1.5 mm.

[0111] Preferably, the diameter of the second inlet mouth 425' and the second outlet mouth 425" is between 1 mm and 3 mm, preferably equal to about 1.5 mm.

[0112] According to the above, the channel cross section of the duct corresponds to the average of the channel cross section measured at the inlet mouth and the channel cross section measured at the outlet mouth.

[0113] According to a preferred embodiment, the first inlet mouth 415 ′ and / or the second inlet mouth 425 ′ have rounded edges.

[0114] According to a preferred embodiment, the first plate-like unit 41 comprises a plurality of corresponding protruding bosses 4120 respectively adapted to supportively engage adjacent second plate-like units 42 .

[0115] According to a preferred embodiment, the second plate-like unit 42 comprises a plurality of corresponding protruding bosses 4220 respectively adapted to supportively engage adjacent first plate-like units 41 .

[0116] According to a preferred embodiment, the first plate-like unit 41 comprises a plurality of respective internal protruding bosses 4110 comprised in the first plate-like element 411 , respectively adapted to supportively engage a first plate-like element 412 comprised in the same plate-like unit.

[0117] According to a preferred embodiment, the second plate-like unit 42 comprises a plurality of corresponding internal protruding bosses 4210 comprised in the second plate-like element 421 , respectively adapted to supportively engage a second plate-like element 422 comprised in the same plate-like unit.

[0118] According to a preferred embodiment, the planar exchange fluid section 223 has a different height relative to the planar working fluid section 213 .

[0119] According to a preferred embodiment, the height of the planar exchange fluid section 223 is greater than the height of the planar working fluid section 213 .

[0120] According to a preferred embodiment, the height of the planar working fluid section 213 is substantially equal to the height of the planar exchange fluid section 223 .

[0121] According to a preferred embodiment, the planar working fluid segment 213 has a height of 0.5 mm to 3 mm.

[0122] According to a preferred embodiment, the planar exchange fluid segment 223 has a height of 0.5 mm to 3 mm.

[0123] According to a preferred embodiment, the heat exchanger 1 further comprises a spoiler element accommodated in the planar working fluid section 213 and / or the planar exchange fluid section 223, respectively.

[0124] Preferably, the purpose of the spoiler element is to increase the exchange surface available for heat exchange, thereby increasing the turbulence of the working fluid. In addition, preferably, the spoiler element increases the structural resistance of the heat exchanger, and for this reason, the spoiler element is suitable for installation on a higher pressure circuit, usually in a planar exchange fluid section 223.

[0125] According to a preferred embodiment, an exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 is obtained on the upper end group 3 .

[0126] According to a preferred embodiment, an exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 is obtained on the lower end group 5 .

[0127] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper end group 3 or the lower end group 5 comprises at least one inlet passage 30 extending longitudinally and / or transversely from the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 .

[0128] Preferably, the upper end group 3 or the lower end group 5 comprises a plurality of inlet passages 30 originating from the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210, these inlet passages preferably being angularly spaced.

[0129] Preferably, the upper end set 3 comprises a plurality of upper plate-like elements 31 which are shaped to form the inlet passage 30 when stacked on each other in a vertical direction.

[0130] Preferably, the height of at least one section of the inlet passage 30 (preferably the plurality of inlet passages 30 ) is greater than the height of the planar fluid exchange section 223 .

[0131] According to a preferred embodiment, an exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220 is obtained on the lower end group 5 .

[0132] According to a preferred embodiment, an exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220 is obtained on the upper end group 3 .

[0133] According to a preferred embodiment, the lower end group 5 or the upper end group 3 comprises at least one outlet passage extending longitudinally and / or transversely from the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220 .

[0134] Preferably, the lower end group 5 or the upper end group 3 comprises a plurality of outlet passages originating from the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220, these outlet passages are preferably angularly spaced.

[0135] Preferably, the lower end set 5 comprises a plurality of lower plate-like elements 51 which are shaped to form an outlet passage when stacked on each other in vertical direction.

[0136] Preferably, the height of at least one section of the outlet passage (preferably the plurality of outlet passages) is greater than the height of the planar fluid exchange section 223 .

[0137] Preferably, the height of both the inlet passage 30 and the outlet passage is greater than the height of the planar fluid exchange section 223 .

[0138] Depending on the mutual positioning of the exchange fluid inlet nozzle 2210 and the exchange fluid outlet nozzle 2220, the upper end group 3 and / or the lower end group 5 have specific passages, which are respectively suitable for facilitating the entry and exit of the exchange fluid in the corresponding plate-like plane sections facing the corresponding end groups.

[0139] According to a preferred embodiment, the exchange fluid outlet nozzle is obtained on the same end group as the exchange fluid inlet nozzle, wherein the heat exchanger comprises an outflow exchange fluid section fluidly connected to said exchange fluid outlet nozzle, the outflow exchange fluid section comprising an outflow exchange fluid section inlet positioned away from the exchange fluid outlet nozzle.

[0140] Preferably, the outgoing exchange fluid section is made by passing a tubular element between a plurality of intermediate plate-like groups to fluidly connect the exchange fluid outlet mouth to the outgoing exchange fluid section inlet.

[0141] According to a preferred embodiment, an exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220 is obtained on the same end group as the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210, wherein the intermediate plate-like group 4 defines an outflow exchange fluid section 222 fluidically connected to said exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220, the outflow exchange fluid section comprising an outflow exchange fluid section inlet 222' positioned away from the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220.

[0142] According to a preferred embodiment, the lower end group 5 includes at least one outlet manifold and / or one outlet passage, which extends longitudinally and / or transversely until it is fluidically connected to the exchange fluid outlet nozzle 2220 (regardless of whether the exchange fluid outlet nozzle is included in the upper end group 3 or in the lower end group 5).

[0143] According to an alternative embodiment, the exchange fluid inlet nozzle is obtained on the same end group where the exchange fluid outlet nozzle is obtained, wherein the heat exchanger comprises an inflow exchange fluid section fluidly connected to said exchange fluid inlet nozzle, the inflow exchange fluid section comprising an inflow exchange fluid section outlet positioned away from the exchange fluid inlet nozzle.

[0144] Preferably, the inflow exchange fluid section is made by passing a tubular element between the intermediate plate-like groups to fluidly connect the exchange fluid inlet mouth to the inflow exchange fluid section outlet.

[0145] According to an alternative embodiment, an exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 is obtained on the same end group as the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220, wherein the intermediate plate-like group 4 defines an inflowing exchange fluid section fluidically connected to said exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210, the inflowing exchange fluid section including an inflowing exchange fluid section outlet positioned away from the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210.

[0146] In particular, according to a preferred embodiment, said vertical connecting sections are obtained by coupling respective protruding collars obtained on each intermediate plate-like group.

[0147] According to a preferred embodiment, the heat exchanger 1 is a liquid-cooled condenser and the exchange fluid undergoes a phase change by condensation due to the successive passage of the planar exchange fluid sections 223 .

[0148] According to another preferred embodiment, the heat exchanger 1 is an evaporator and the exchange fluid undergoes a phase change by evaporation due to the successive passage of the planar exchange fluid sections 223 .

[0149] According to a preferred embodiment, the shape, arrangement and number of the conduits depend on the type of phase change that the exchange fluid undergoes.

[0150] According to a preferred embodiment, the intermediate plate-like groups 4 are bonded to one another by a brazing operation, preferably in a vacuum furnace.

[0151] According to a preferred embodiment, the end groups 3, 5 and the intermediate plate-like group 4 are bonded to each other by a brazing operation, preferably in a vacuum furnace.

[0152] According to a preferred embodiment, the heat exchanger 1 comprises at least one connection member 8 operatively connected to at least one end set 3 , 5 at at least one fluid inlet mouth or fluid outlet mouth.

[0153] According to a preferred embodiment, the planar inlet exchange fluid segment is identified as the first planar segment in which the exchange fluid first flows.

[0154] According to a preferred embodiment, the planar outlet exchange fluid segment is identified as the last planar segment in which the exchange fluid last flows.

[0155] Preferably, in an embodiment of the heat exchanger 1 of the type suitable for phase change by condensation, the axial distance between the working fluid outlet mouth 2120 and the planar inlet exchange fluid section measured along the axis VV is smaller than the distance between the working fluid outlet mouth 2120 and the planar outlet exchange fluid section measured along the same direction. Advantageously, the configuration increases the thermal power of the exchanger in a condenser configuration by means of a heat exchange between the exchange fluid entering the heat exchanger and the working fluid leaving the heat exchanger, in the region where the two fluids flow at their respective maximum flow rates.

[0156] Preferably, in an embodiment of the heat exchanger 1 of the type suitable for phase change by evaporation, the axial distance between the working fluid outlet nozzle 2120 and the planar inlet exchange fluid section measured along the axis VV is greater than the distance between the working fluid outlet nozzle 2120 and the planar outlet exchange fluid section measured along the same direction. Advantageously, the configuration increases the thermal power of the exchanger in an evaporator configuration by means of a heat exchange between the exchange fluid entering the heat exchanger and the working fluid leaving the heat exchanger, in the region where the two fluids flow at their respective maximum flow rates.

[0157] Innovatively, the heat exchanger achieves the objectives of the present invention to a large extent and overcomes the common problems of the prior art.

[0158] Advantageously, in practice, the heat exchanger has fluid channels adapted to make the heat exchange particularly efficient. Advantageously, in practice, the heat exchanger has intermediate plate-like groups adapted to make the heat exchange particularly efficient.

[0159] Advantageously, in a heat exchanger, heat exchange is managed more efficiently by intermediate plate-like groups of planar fluid-exchanging sections fluidly connected in a cascade arrangement.

[0160] Advantageously, the improvement in the efficiency of the heat exchange allows reducing the number of planar segments required to achieve a certain thermal power, thereby allowing reducing the weight of the exchanger and the associated costs.

[0161] Advantageously, the connection of the planar exchange segments in a tandem arrangement allows for flexible management of the positioning of the inlet and outlet mouths of the exchange fluid, thus providing a solution that is easily adaptable to different system layouts.

[0162] Advantageously, the connection of the planar exchange sections in a tandem arrangement allows for flexible management of the positioning of the inlet and outlet mouths of the exchange fluid without the geometrical constraints imposed by the vertical exchange fluid circulation sections present on conventional plate heat exchangers.

[0163] Advantageously, in case the heat exchanger is adapted for use as an evaporator, said flexibility facilitates the integration of functional components (such as laminate components, for example an expansion valve) with the exchanger.

[0164] Advantageously, depending on the type of heat exchanger, the planar inlet exchange fluid section may be located close to or away from the end group where the working fluid outlet mouth is located.

[0165] Advantageously, the intermediate plate-like formation is configured to have uniform and efficient heat exchange.

[0166] Advantageously, the intermediate plate-like formation is shaped to regulate the flow rate and / or flow velocity of the exchange fluid passing through its ducts.

[0167] Advantageously, the fluid path inside the heat exchanger can be designed by defining the position and / or number and / or shape of the conduits.

[0168] Advantageously, the heat exchanger defines a tortuous and labyrinthine path for the working fluid, but most importantly for the exchange fluid.

[0169] Advantageously, the heat exchanger also manages the flow-through time of the exchange fluid as a function of the phase change of the exchange fluid inside the heat exchanger.

[0170] Advantageously, the exchange fluid zone is obtained by providing an end group fluidly connected in series with the intermediate group.

[0171] Advantageously, the heat exchanger has an optimized pressure drop both over the exchange fluid circuit and over the working fluid circuit.

[0172] Advantageously, the exchange fluid passes through the respective ducts and impinges on the planar surface, facilitating and increasing the heat exchange on said surface, and the working fluid circulates on the other side of said surface.

[0173] Advantageously, the exchange fluid passes through a respective duct extending through the planar working fluid section, also exchanging heat with the walls defining this duct.

[0174] Advantageously, the height of the planar working section is greater than the height of the planar exchange section. This result allows reducing the pressure drop on the working fluid circuit while taking advantage of the positive contribution to the heat exchange given by the radiation effect given by the heat exchange of the working fluid with the side walls of the ducts suitable for circulating the exchange fluid and extending through the planar working section.

[0175] Advantageously, the presence of the inlet passage ensures a low pressure drop of the inlet exchange fluid. Advantageously, the presence of the outlet manifold ensures a low pressure drop of the outlet exchange fluid.

[0176] Advantageously, the height of the inlet and outlet passages being greater than that of the planar exchange sections allows to adequately manage the pressure drop of the exchange fluid circulating in the heat exchanger.

[0177] Advantageously, the plate-like elements comprised in the heat exchanger can be assembled by brazing in a reliable assembly sequence suitable for ensuring the correct positioning and mutual connection of the components comprised in the exchanger.

[0178] Advantageously, a heat exchanger may be obtained by stacking on top of each other two types of plates comprising respective openings and planar surfaces.

[0179] Advantageously, the heat exchanger has high solidity, resistance and rigidity.

[0180] Advantageously, the heat exchanger has improved manufacturing and assembly, thereby having lower costs.

[0181] Advantageously, the heat exchanger is a single component.

[0182] Advantageously, the connecting duct comprised in the plate-like unit is obtained integrally with the plate-like element forming the unit, for example it is shaped with the plate-like element, for example by drawing, to define the side walls of the duct.

[0183] Obviously, in order to meet possible needs, those skilled in the art may make changes to the above heat exchanger, all of which are included in the protection scope defined by the appended claims.

[0184] List of reference numerals:

[0185] 1 Heat exchanger

[0186] 21 Working fluid area

[0187] 211 Vertical working fluid (inlet) section

[0188] 212 Vertical working fluid (outlet) section

[0189] 213 Planar working fluid section

[0190] 2110 Working fluid inlet nozzle

[0191] 2120 Working fluid outlet nozzle

[0192] 22 Exchange Fluid Region

[0193] 222 Outflow exchange fluid section

[0194] 222' Outflow exchange fluid section inlet

[0195] 223 Planar exchange fluid segment

[0196] 2210 Exchange fluid inlet nozzle

[0197] 2220 Exchange fluid outlet nozzle

[0198] 3 Upper end group

[0199] 30 Entrance Path

[0200] 31 Upper plate element.

[0201] 4 Intermediate plate group

[0202] 41 First plate unit

[0203] 411 First (upper) plate-like element

[0204] 4110 Internal protrusion

[0205] 4119 First Plane Surface

[0206] 412 First (lower) plate-like element

[0207] 4120 Protruding part

[0208] 415 First Pipeline

[0209] 415' First entrance mouth

[0210] 415” First outlet mouth

[0211] 42 Second plate unit

[0212] 421 Second (upper) plate-like element

[0213] 4210 Internal protrusion

[0214] 4219 Second Plane Surface

[0215] 422 Second (lower) plate-like element

[0216] 4220 protruding part

[0217] 425 Second Pipeline

[0218] 425' Second entrance mouth

[0219] 425” Second outlet nozzle

[0220] 5 Lower end group

[0221] 8 Connecting components

[0222] XX Longitudinal axis

[0223] YY Horizontal axis

[0224] VV vertical axis

Claims

1. A heat exchanger (1) comprising a longitudinal axis (XX), a transverse axis (YY) and a vertical axis (VV), and comprising a working fluid inlet nozzle (2110) and a working fluid outlet nozzle (2120) and an exchange fluid inlet nozzle (2210) and an exchange fluid outlet nozzle (2220), wherein: The heat exchanger (1) comprises: - an upper end group (3) and a lower end group (5), wherein the working fluid inlet nozzle (2110), the working fluid outlet nozzle (2120), the exchange fluid inlet nozzle (2210) and the exchange fluid outlet nozzle (2220) are obtained on the upper end group (3) and the lower end group (5); - a plurality of intermediate plate-like groups (4) stacked vertically between the upper end group (3) and the lower end group (5) to define a working fluid region (21) and an exchange fluid region (22), wherein the working fluid region is in fluid communication with the working fluid inlet nozzle (2110) and the working fluid outlet nozzle (2120) and comprises a planar working fluid segment (213), and the exchange fluid region is in fluid communication with the exchange fluid inlet nozzle (2210) and the exchange fluid outlet nozzle (2220) and comprises a planar exchange fluid segment (223); The intermediate plate group (4) comprises a first plate unit (41) and a second plate unit (42), the first plate unit and the second plate unit respectively comprising a pair of first plate elements (411, 412) and a pair of second plate elements (421, 422), each pair of the first plate elements and the second plate elements defining a planar working fluid section (213); Each of the first plate-shaped units (41) comprises a plurality of first pipes (415), and the first pipes extend through a planar working fluid section (213) located between a pair of the first plate-shaped elements (411, 412); Each of the second plate-shaped units (42) comprises a plurality of second pipes (425), which extend through a planar working fluid section (213) located between a pair of the second plate-shaped elements (421, 422).

2. The heat exchanger (1) according to claim 1, wherein: The first conduit (415) and the second conduit (425) are positioned so as not to be aligned with each other in a vertical direction.

3. The heat exchanger (1) according to claim 2, wherein: The plate-like element comprises a planar surface (4119, 4219) positioned in front of the ducts (415, 425) of the adjacent cells so that the exchange fluid passing through the corresponding ducts (415, 425) flows toward and hits the planar surface (4119, 4219).

4. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The plurality of first pipes (415) of the first plate-like unit (41) are positioned to be aligned in the transverse and longitudinal directions; and / or The plurality of second pipes (425) of the second plate-shaped unit (42) are positioned to be aligned in the transverse and longitudinal directions.

5. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The channel area defined by the conduit adjacent to the fluid connection of the exchange fluid inlet nozzle (2210) is smaller than the channel area defined by the conduit adjacent to the fluid connection of the exchange fluid outlet nozzle (2220).

6. The heat exchanger (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The channel area defined by the conduit adjacent to the fluid connection of the exchange fluid inlet nozzle (2210) is greater than the channel area defined by the conduit adjacent to the fluid connection of the exchange fluid outlet nozzle (2220).

7. The heat exchanger (1) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein: The first conduits (415) of one first plate-shaped unit (41) are different from the first conduits (415) of another first plate-shaped unit (41) in shape and / or number and / or positioning.

8. The heat exchanger (1) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein: The second conduits (425) of one second plate-shaped unit (42) are different from the second conduits (425) of another second plate-shaped unit (42) in shape and / or number and / or positioning.

9. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: - a plurality of said first pipes (415), said first pipes respectively comprising a first inlet nozzle (415') and a first outlet nozzle (415"), wherein a channel cross section of said first outlet nozzle (415") is equal to or smaller than a channel cross section of said first inlet nozzle (415'); and / or - A plurality of second pipes (425), each of which comprises a second inlet nozzle (425') and a second outlet nozzle (425"), wherein the channel cross section of the second outlet nozzle (425") is equal to or smaller than the channel cross section of the second inlet nozzle (425').

10. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first plate-like unit (41) and / or the second plate-like unit (42) include protruding protrusions (4120, 4220), which are respectively suitable for supportingly engaging the adjacent first plate-like unit (41) or the second plate-like unit (42).

11. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The height of the planar exchange fluid section (223) is smaller than the height of the planar working fluid section (213).

12. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The upper end group (3) is of plate-like type, for example comprising a plurality of vertically stacked plate-like elements, and / or wherein the lower end group (5) is of plate-like type, for example comprising a plurality of vertically stacked plate-like elements.

13. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The exchange fluid inlet nozzle (2210) is obtained on the upper end group or the lower end group, preferably on the upper end group (3), wherein the upper end group or the lower end group includes at least one inlet passage (30) extending longitudinally and / or transversely from the exchange fluid inlet nozzle (2210), preferably a plurality of inlet passages.

14. The heat exchanger (1) according to claim 13, wherein: The height of the inlet passage (30), preferably the height of a plurality of the inlet passages, is greater than the height of the first planar fluid exchange section (223) intersecting the inlet passage.

15. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The exchange fluid outlet nozzle (2220) is obtained on the upper end group or the lower end group, preferably on the lower end group (5), wherein the upper end group or the lower end group includes at least one outlet passage extending longitudinally and / or transversely relative to the fluid connection part with the exchange fluid outlet nozzle (2220), preferably a plurality of outlet passages.

16. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The exchange fluid outlet nozzle (2220) is obtained on one of the upper end group and the lower end group, and the exchange fluid inlet nozzle (2210) is obtained on the other of the upper end group and the lower end group; or Wherein, the exchange fluid outlet nozzle (2220) and the exchange fluid inlet nozzle (2210) are obtained on the same one of the upper end group and the lower end group, wherein a plurality of the intermediate plate-like groups (4) define an outflow exchange fluid segment (222) fluidically connected to the exchange fluid outlet nozzle (2220), and the outflow exchange fluid segment includes an exchange fluid segment inlet (222') away from the exchange fluid outlet nozzle (2220).

17. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: obtaining the exchange fluid inlet nozzle (2210) on one of the upper end group and the lower end group, and obtaining the exchange fluid outlet nozzle (2220) on the other of the upper end group and the lower end group; or Wherein, the exchange fluid inlet nozzle (2210) and the exchange fluid outlet nozzle (2220) are obtained on the same one of the upper end group and the lower end group, wherein a plurality of the intermediate plate-like groups (4) define an inflow exchange fluid segment fluidically connected to the exchange fluid inlet nozzle (2210), and the inflow exchange fluid segment includes an inflow exchange fluid segment outlet positioned away from the exchange fluid inlet nozzle (2220).

18. The heat exchanger (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 6 to 17, wherein: The heat exchanger (1) is a liquid-cooled condenser, and the exchange fluid undergoes a phase change by condensation as it passes through a plurality of the planar exchange fluid sections (223) in succession.

19. The heat exchanger (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and 7 to 17, wherein: The heat exchanger (1) is an evaporator, and the exchange fluid undergoes a phase change by evaporation as it passes through a plurality of the planar exchange fluid sections (223) in succession.

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