Heat exchanger and air conditioner including same

Abstract

In a plate-laminated heat exchanger having first and second fin laminates disposed adjacent to each other, contact between the first and second fin laminates is suppressed. The heat exchanger is provided with: first and second fin laminated bodies (40A, 40B) each formed by laminating a plurality of fins with gaps therebetween; and a connecting member (60) that connects the first and second fin laminates such that the fin lamination directions of the first and second fin laminates are parallel to each other and the end surfaces (40Aa, 40Bb) of the first and second fin laminates in the longitudinal direction of the fins are adjacent to each other. The connecting member (60) connects the first and second fin laminates (40A, 40B) in a state where at least a portion of the connecting member (60) is interposed between a fin longitudinal direction end surface (40Aa) of the first fin laminate (40A) and a fin longitudinal direction end surface (40Bb) of the second fin laminate (40B).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a heat exchanger and an air conditioner including the heat exchanger. Background Art

[0002] For example, as described in Patent Document 1, a plate stack type heat exchanger is known in the prior art, wherein the fins are formed by joining a first plate to a second plate. Internal flow paths for refrigerant flow are formed on each of the plurality of fins. Heat exchange is performed between air flowing between the plurality of fins and the refrigerant flowing inside each fin.

[0003] The stack of multiple fins in such a plate stack type heat exchanger (fin stack) is produced by alternately stacking the first and second plates and heating them while pressing them in the stacking direction. Therefore, the first and second plates are respectively produced by, for example, press-forming a metal thin plate (brazing plate) having a brazing material layer on both sides.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-180856 Summary of the invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0008] However, in the case of a plate stack type heat exchanger, if the number of stacked fins increases, the fin stack becomes a flat plate that is longer in the fin stacking direction. Therefore, the fin stack is easily deformed in a direction orthogonal to the fin stacking direction. In particular, in the case where the fin has a short side direction and a long side direction, the fin stack is easily deformed in its short side direction. As a result, if an impact (external force) is applied to the fin stack in the short side direction and / or the long side direction (for example, when a single heat exchanger falls during transportation or when a product falls while being loaded with a product), the fin stack is deformed.

[0009] When a heat exchanger is constructed by arranging a plurality of fin stacks adjacent to each other so that the fin stacking directions are parallel to each other, if at least one fin stack is deformed, it may come into contact with another fin stack, resulting in damage to at least one fin stack.

[0010] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to suppress contact between the first fin stack and the second fin stack in a plate stack type heat exchanger including first and second fin stacks disposed adjacent to each other with their fin stacking directions parallel to each other.

[0011] Methods used to solve problems

[0012] In order to solve the above problems, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a heat exchanger is provided, comprising:

[0013] First and second fin stacks respectively formed by stacking a plurality of fins each including an internal flow path for a first fluid to flow, with gaps for a second fluid to pass therethrough being left; and

[0014] A connecting member connecting the first fin stack and the second fin stack in such a manner that the fin stacking directions of the first fin stack and the second fin stack are parallel to each other and one fin long side end face of each of the first fin stack and the second fin stack is adjacent to each other,

[0015] The connecting member connects the first fin stack and the second fin stack in a state where at least a portion of the connecting member is interposed between the fin-longitudinal end surface of the first fin stack and the fin-longitudinal end surface of the second fin stack.

[0016] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an air conditioner, comprising:

[0017] A compressor that delivers refrigerant;

[0018] A heat exchanger through which the refrigerant flows; and

[0019] a fan to generate an air flow through the heat exchanger,

[0020] The heat exchanger has:

[0021] a first fin stack and a second fin stack respectively formed by stacking a plurality of fins each including an internal flow path through which a refrigerant flows, with gaps being left for air to pass; and

[0022] A connecting member connecting the first fin stack and the second fin stack in such a manner that the fin stacking directions of the first fin stack and the second fin stack are parallel to each other and one fin long side end face of each of the first fin stack and the second fin stack is adjacent to each other,

[0023] The connecting member connects the first fin stack and the second fin stack in a state where at least a portion of the connecting member is interposed between the fin-longitudinal end surface of the first fin stack and the fin-longitudinal end surface of the second fin stack.

[0024] Effects of the Invention

[0025] According to the present invention, in a plate stack type heat exchanger including first and second fin stacks disposed adjacent to each other with their fin stacking directions parallel to each other, contact between the first fin stack and the second fin stack can be suppressed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an indoor unit in an air conditioner.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a fin stack in a heat exchanger.

[0029] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the fin stack.

[0030] Figure 5 It is a perspective view showing two fin stacks in a connected state.

[0031] Figure 6 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member connecting two fin stacks.

[0032] Figure 7 It is a rear perspective view of the connecting member.

[0033] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member in a state where two fin stacks are connected, as seen from the fin stacking direction.

[0034] Fig. 9 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member for connecting two fin stacks in the heat exchanger according to the second embodiment.

[0035] Fig.10 This is a rear perspective view of the connecting member of the second embodiment.

[0036] Fig.11 This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member according to the second embodiment when two fin stacks are connected, as viewed from the fin stacking direction.

[0037] Fig.12 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member for connecting two fin stacks in a heat exchanger according to a third embodiment.

[0038] Fig.13 This is a rear perspective view of the connecting member of the third embodiment.

[0039] Fig.14 This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member according to the third embodiment when two fin stacks are connected, as viewed from the fin stacking direction.

[0040] Fig.15 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member for connecting two fin stacks in a heat exchanger according to a fourth embodiment.

[0041] Fig.16 This is a rear perspective view of the connecting member of the fourth embodiment.

[0042] Fig.17 This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member according to the fourth embodiment when two fin stacks are connected, as viewed from the fin stacking direction.

[0043] Fig.18 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member for connecting two fin stacks in a heat exchanger according to a fifth embodiment.

[0044] Fig.19 This is a rear perspective view of the connecting member of the fifth embodiment.

[0045] Fig. 20 This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member according to the fifth embodiment when two fin stacks are connected, as viewed from the fin stacking direction.

[0046] Fig.21 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member for connecting two fin stacks in a heat exchanger according to a sixth embodiment.

[0047] Fig. 22 This is a rear perspective view of the connecting member of the sixth embodiment.

[0048] Fig.23 This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member according to the sixth embodiment, when two fin stacks are connected, as viewed from the fin stacking direction.

[0049] Fig.24 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member for connecting two fin stacks in a heat exchanger according to a seventh embodiment.

[0050] Fig.25 This is a rear perspective view of the connecting member of the seventh embodiment.

[0051] Fig.26 This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member according to the seventh embodiment, when two fin stacks are connected, as viewed from the fin stacking direction.

[0052] Fig. 27 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member for connecting two fin stacks in a heat exchanger according to an eighth embodiment.

[0053] Fig.28 This is a rear perspective view of the connecting member of the eighth embodiment.

[0054] Fig.29This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member according to the eighth embodiment, when two fin stacks are connected, as viewed from the fin stacking direction.

[0055] Description of Reference Numerals

[0056] 40A fin stack

[0057] 40Aa Fin long side end face

[0058] 40B fin stack

[0059] 40Ba fin long side end

[0060] 60 Connecting parts DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] A heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first and a second fin stack respectively formed by stacking a plurality of fins each including an internal flow path for a first fluid to flow while leaving a gap for a second fluid to pass therethrough; and a connecting component connecting the first fin stack and the second fin stack in such a manner that the fin stacking directions of the first fin stack and the second fin stack are parallel to each other and one end face in the long side direction of a fin of each of the first fin stack and the second fin stack are adjacent to each other, the connecting component connecting the first fin stack and the second fin stack in a state in which at least a portion of the connecting component is interposed between the end face in the long side direction of the fin of the first fin stack and the end face in the long side direction of the fin of the second fin stack.

[0062] According to such an aspect, in the plate stack type heat exchanger including the first and second fin stacks disposed adjacent to each other with the fin stacking directions being parallel to each other, contact between the first fin stack and the second fin stack can be suppressed.

[0063] For example, the first and second fin stacks may be connected by the connecting member in such a manner that the end surface of the first fin stack in the fin long side direction and the end surface of the second fin stack in the fin long side direction are opposite to each other and approach each other from one end to the other end in the fin short side direction.

[0064] For example, the connecting member may include: a first fin stack supporting portion that contacts and supports the first fin stack; and a second fin stack supporting portion that contacts and supports the second fin stack.

[0065] For example, the first fin stack supporting portion may include a fin-longitudinal direction contact portion that contacts the fin-longitudinal direction end surface of the first fin stack.

[0066] For example, the fin longitudinal direction contact portion of the first fin stack supporting portion may include a plurality of through holes.

[0067] For example, the first fin stack supporting portion may include a fin short-side direction contact portion that contacts one fin short-side direction end surface of the first fin stack.

[0068] For example, the second fin stack supporting portion may include a fin-longitudinal direction contact portion that contacts the fin-longitudinal direction end surface of the second fin stack.

[0069] For example, the second fin stack supporting portion may include a fin short-side direction contact portion that contacts one fin short-side direction end surface of the second fin stack.

[0070] For example, the first fin stack support portion may include: a fin long side contact portion in contact with the fin long side end surface of the first fin stack, and a fin short side contact portion in contact with one fin short side end surface of the first fin stack; the second fin stack support portion may include: a fin short side contact portion in contact with one fin short side end surface of the second fin stack, the fin long side contact portion of the first fin stack support portion has a plurality of through holes, and the connecting component may also include a connecting portion extending between the fin short side contact portion in the first fin stack support portion and the fin short side contact portion in the second fin stack support portion to connect them.

[0071] For example, the first fin stack support portion may include: a fin long side direction contact portion in contact with the fin long side direction end surface of the first fin stack; a first fin short side direction contact portion in contact with one fin short side direction end surface of the first fin stack; and a second fin short side direction contact portion in contact with the other fin short side direction end surface of the first fin stack, and the second fin stack support portion may include: a fin short side direction contact portion in contact with one fin short side direction end surface of the second fin stack, the first fin stack support portion The contact portion in the long side direction of the fin of the supporting portion has a plurality of through holes, and the connecting component includes a connecting portion, which extends between the first fin short side contact portion in the first fin stack supporting portion and the fin short side contact portion in the second fin stack supporting portion to connect them, and the second fin stack has a chamfered surface between the end face in the long side direction of the fin and the end face in the short side direction of the other fin, and the contact portion in the long side direction of the fin in the first fin stack supporting portion is in contact with the chamfered surface of the second fin stack.

[0072] For example, the first fin stack may have a first chamfered surface between the fin long side end face and one fin short side end face, and a second chamfered surface between the fin long side end face and the other fin short side end face, the second fin stack may have a third chamfered surface between the fin long side end face and one fin short side end face, and a fourth chamfered surface between the fin long side end face and the other fin short side end face, and the first fin stack support portion may include: a fin long side contact portion in contact with the fin long side end face of the first fin stack; a first fin short side contact portion in contact with one fin short side end face of the first fin stack; a fin short side contact portion in contact with the other fin short side end face of the first fin stack The fin long side contact portion of the first fin stack support portion is in contact with the 4th chamfered surface of the 2nd fin stack.

[0073] For example, the first fin stack and the second fin stack may each include end plates at both ends in the fin stacking direction, and both ends of the connecting member in the fin stacking direction may be fixed to the end plates of the first fin stack and the second fin stack.

[0074] For example, the connecting member may be a pressed product of a metal plate.

[0075] An air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention includes: a compressor for delivering refrigerant; a heat exchanger for the flow of refrigerant; and a fan for generating air flow through the heat exchanger, wherein the heat exchanger has: a first and a second fin stack formed by stacking a plurality of fins each having an internal flow path for the flow of refrigerant while leaving a gap for the passage of air; a connecting component connecting the first and the second fin stacks in a manner such that the fin stacking directions of the first fin stack and the second fin stack are parallel to each other and one end face in the long side direction of the first fin stack and the second fin stack are adjacent to each other, the connecting component connecting the first fin stack and the second fin stack in a state where at least a portion of the connecting component is interposed between the end face in the long side direction of the fin of the first fin stack and the end face in the long side direction of the fin of the second fin stack.

[0076] According to such another aspect, in the plate stack type heat exchanger including the first and second fin stacks disposed adjacent to each other with the fin stacking directions parallel to each other, contact between the first fin stack and the second fin stack can be suppressed.

[0077] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0078] (Implementation Method 1)

[0079] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an indoor unit in an air conditioner.

[0080] like Figure 1 As shown, the air conditioner 10 according to Embodiment 1 includes an indoor unit 12 disposed indoors and an outdoor unit 14 disposed outdoors.

[0081] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the indoor unit 12 is equipped with: a housing 16 disposed indoors, a heat exchanger 18 disposed in the housing 16 and performing heat exchange with the indoor air, and a cross-flow fan 20 that generates an indoor air flow by passing the indoor air through the heat exchanger 18. The housing 16 is provided with an air inlet 16a opened upward, an air inlet 16b opened forward, and an air outlet 16c directed obliquely downward. When the cross-flow fan 20 rotates, the indoor air flows into the housing 16 through the air inlets 16a and 16b and passes through the heat exchanger 18. The air passing through the heat exchanger 18 is blown out of the housing 16 to the outside through the air outlet 16c. In addition, a drain pan 22 is provided below the heat exchanger 18 to store moisture in the air condensed on the surface of the heat exchanger 18.

[0082] like Figure 1 As shown, the outdoor unit 14 is equipped with a heat exchanger 24 for exchanging heat with outdoor air, an axial flow fan 26 for generating an outdoor air flow by passing outdoor air through the heat exchanger 24, and a compressor 28 for sending out the refrigerant (first fluid) passing through the heat exchangers 18 and 24. The heat exchanger 18, the heat exchanger 24, and the compressor 28 are connected via a refrigerant pipe 30. The refrigerant pipe 30 is provided with an expansion valve 32 for decompressing the refrigerant and a four-way valve 34 for changing the flow direction of the refrigerant.

[0083] During cooling operation, the refrigerant is sent out from the compressor 28, passes through the four-way valve 34, the heat exchanger 24 of the outdoor unit 14, the expansion valve 32, the heat exchanger 18 of the indoor unit 12 in sequence, and returns to the compressor 28. During heating operation, the refrigerant is sent out from the compressor 28, passes through the four-way valve 34, the heat exchanger 18 of the indoor unit 12, the expansion valve 32, the heat exchanger 24 of the outdoor unit 14 in sequence, and returns to the compressor 28. The flow of the refrigerant during cooling operation and the flow of the refrigerant during heating operation are switched by the four-way valve 34. In addition, during cooling operation, water droplets generated by condensation of indoor air on the surface of the heat exchanger 18 flow along the surface of the heat exchanger 18 and fall into the drain pan 22.

[0084] like Figure 2 As shown, the heat exchanger 18 of the indoor unit 12 is composed of a plurality of fin stacks 40A to 40C.

[0085] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a fin stack in a heat exchanger. Figure 4 It is an exploded stereogram of the fin stack. In addition, the XYZ orthogonal coordinate system shown in the drawings is used to facilitate the understanding of the embodiment and does not limit the embodiment. The X-axis direction represents the short side direction of the fins constituting the fin stack 40A~40C in the heat exchanger 18, the Y-axis direction represents the long side direction of the fin, and the Z-axis direction represents the thickness direction of the fin and the stacking direction of the fin. In addition, in the drawings, the blank arrows represent the flow direction of the air A (the second fluid) flowing into the fin stack 40A~40C. In the case of the present embodiment 1, the air A passing through the fin stack 40A~40C mainly flows along the short side direction of the fin (X-axis direction).

[0086] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, each fin stack 40A to 40C includes first and second end plates 42 and 44 at both ends of the fin stacking direction. The first end plate 42 is provided with an inlet-side connecting pipe 42a connected to the refrigerant pipe 30 and through which the refrigerant flows, and an outlet-side connecting pipe 42b connected to the refrigerant pipe 30 and through which the refrigerant flows out.

[0087] like Figure 4As shown in FIG. 1 , each fin stack 40A to 40C is formed by stacking a plurality of substantially rectangular fins 46 in the fin thickness direction (Z-axis direction). By stacking a plurality of fins 46, each fin stack 40A to 40C is formed as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the fins 46 are formed into a flat plate shape that is long in the fin stacking direction. In the case of Embodiment 1, a plurality of fins 46 are stacked in the left-right direction of the indoor unit 12 .

[0088] like Figure 4 As shown, an internal flow path 46a for the refrigerant to flow is provided inside each of the plurality of fins 46. In the case of the first embodiment, the plurality of fins 46 are formed by joining the first plate 48 and the second plate 50 to each other in the fin stacking direction (Z-axis direction) of the fin stack body 40. The internal flow path 46a is formed between the first plate 48 and the second plate 50.

[0089] For example, the first plate 48 and the second plate 50 are made by processing, for example, pressing, a metal thin plate having a brazing material layer on both sides, a so-called brazing plate. The brazing plate is made by forming, for example, an aluminum-silicon alloy layer as a brazing material on both sides of a thin plate made of an aluminum alloy. The first plate 48 and the second plate 50 are joined by melting the brazing material layer once under heating and solidifying it again.

[0090] The first plate 48 and the second plate 50 are joined to each other to form an internal flow path 46a through which the refrigerant flows. In the case of the first embodiment, a recess is formed on the inner surface of the first plate 48 that faces the second plate 50. The internal flow path 46a is formed by covering the recess with the second plate 50.

[0091] In addition, the internal flow path 46a communicates with the inside of tubular headers 46b and 46c provided at both ends of the fin 46 in the fin long side direction (Y-axis direction). That is, the internal flow path 46a is provided in the central part of the fin 46 in the fin long side direction, and its both ends communicate with the inside of the headers 46b and 46c, respectively. In addition, these headers 46b and 46c are formed by joining the cylindrical part formed on the first plate 48 and the cylindrical part formed on the second plate 50, respectively.

[0092] The headers 46 b of the plurality of fins 46 are connected and joined to form an inlet manifold, which is connected to the inlet connecting pipe 42 a of the first end plate 42 . Thus, the refrigerant passing through the inlet connecting pipe 42 a flows into the internal flow paths 46 a of the fins 46 .

[0093] In addition, the headers 46c of the plurality of fins 46 are connected and joined to form an outflow manifold, which is connected to the outflow connection pipe 42b of the first end plate 42. Thus, the refrigerant flowing out of the internal flow path 46a of each fin 46 flows to the outflow connection pipe 42b.

[0094] The plurality of fins 46 are stacked with gaps therebetween. Specifically, the gap between two adjacent fins 46 is formed by joining the header 46b of one fin 46 to the header 46b of the other fin 46 and joining the header 46c of one fin 46 to the header 46c of the other fin 46. Air A flows through the gap.

[0095] According to the fin stacks 40A to 40C of the heat exchanger 18 , heat exchange is performed between the refrigerant flowing through the internal flow paths 46 a of the fins 46 and the air A flowing through the gaps between the fins 46 .

[0096] In addition, in the case of the first embodiment, if Figure 2 As shown, in the heat exchanger 18, a plurality of fin stacks 40A to 40C are arranged in parallel in such a manner that the fin stacking directions are parallel to each other. In addition, the fin stacks 40A and 40B are arranged adjacent to each other, and the fin stacks 40A and 40C are arranged adjacent to each other. Specifically, two fin stacks are arranged adjacent to each other in such a manner that the end surfaces in the long side direction of the fins are adjacent to each other. The fin stack 40A is arranged adjacent to the top of the fin stack 40B, and the fin stack 40C is arranged adjacent to the rear of the fin stack 40A. With such an arrangement, as Figure 2 As shown, when viewed from the extending direction of the rotation center line of the cross flow fan 20 (viewed from the direction orthogonal to the drawing), the cross flow fan 20 is surrounded by the plurality of fin stacks 40A to 40C.

[0097] In the case of the first embodiment, in the heat exchanger 18 , the fin stacks 40A and 40B are connected.

[0098] Figure 5 : is a perspective view showing two fin stacks in a connected state. Figure 6 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member connecting two fin stacks. Figure 7 It is a rear perspective view of the connecting member. Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member in a state of connecting two fin stacks, as viewed from the fin stacking direction.

[0099] like Figures 5 to 8 As shown in the figure, the heat exchanger 18 includes a connecting member 60 connecting the two fin stacks 40A and 40B. The connecting member 60 is made by, for example, pressing (i.e., cutting and bending) a sheet of metal plate such as stainless steel. In addition, the connecting member 60 is a member that is long in the fin stacking direction of the fin stacks 40A and 40B. In addition, in the figure, the fin stacking direction of the fin stacks 40A and 40B is indicated by an arrow S.

[0100] In the case of the first embodiment, the connecting member 60 is connected to the fin stacks 40A and 40B at both ends in the fin stacking direction. Specifically, the connecting member 60 includes: a first fixing portion 60a fixed to the end plates 42 and 44 provided at both ends of one fin stack 40A; and a second fixing portion 60b fixed to the end plates 42 and 44 provided at both ends of the other fin stack 40B. The first and second fixing portions 60a and 60b are fixed to the end plates 42 and 44 of the first and second fin stacks 40A and 40B, respectively, for example, by fixing screws 62.

[0101] In the case of the first embodiment, the connecting member 60 includes a first fin stack supporting portion 60c that supports one fin stack 40A and a second fin stack supporting portion 60d that supports the other fin stack 40B.

[0102] In the case of the first embodiment, if Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the fin stacks 40A and 40B are arranged so that the end faces 40Aa and 40Ba of the respective fins in the long-side direction (fin long-side direction end faces) are adjacent to each other. The fin stacks 40A and 40B are arranged so that the fin long-side direction end faces 40Aa and 40Ba face each other and approach each other as they go from one end to the other end in the short-side direction of the fins. That is, the fin long-side direction end faces 40Aa and 40Ba approach each other as they go from the upstream side to the downstream side in the flow direction of the air A passing through the fin stacks 40A and 40B.

[0103] In the case of the first embodiment, if Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the portion of the connecting member 60 disposed between the fin longitudinal end surfaces 40Aa and 40Ba of the fin stacking bodies 40A and 40B has a V-shaped cross section when viewed in the fin stacking direction. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first fin stack support portion 60c has first fixing portions 60a at both ends in the fin stacking direction. In addition, the second fin stack support portion 60d also has second fixing portions 60b at both ends in the fin stacking direction. Figure 8 As shown, the first and second fin stack supporting portions 60c and 60d are connected to each other at one end in the fin short side direction (that is, one end on the downstream side in the flow direction of the air A).

[0104] The first fin stack support portion 60c of the connecting member 60 includes a fin long side direction contact portion 60e that contacts the fin long side direction end face 40Aa of one fin stack 40A and supports the fin stack 40A in the fin long side direction. In the case of the first embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 60c is the fin long side direction contact portion 60e itself as a whole. The fin long side direction contact portion 60e in the first fin stack support portion 60c is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction. In addition, the fin long side direction contact portion 60e contacts the fin long side direction end face 40Aa of the fin stack 40A in the entire fin stacking direction. That is, the fin long side direction contact portion 60e contacts a plurality of fins 46 in the fin stack 40A in the fin long side direction. Through such a first fin stack support portion 60c, the connecting member 60 supports one fin stack 40A.

[0105] The second fin stack support portion 60d of the connecting member 60 includes a fin long side direction contact portion 60f that contacts the fin long side direction end face 40Ba of another fin stack 40B and supports the second fin stack 40B in the fin long side direction. In the case of the first embodiment, the second fin stack support portion 60d is the fin long side direction contact portion 60f itself as a whole. The fin long side direction contact portion 60f in the second fin stack support portion 60d is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction. In addition, the fin long side direction contact portion 60f contacts the fin long side direction end face 40Ba of the fin stack 40B in the entire fin stacking direction. That is, the fin long side direction contact portion 60f contacts the plurality of fins 46 in the fin stack 40B in the fin long side direction. The connecting member 60 supports the other fin stack 40B via the second fin stack supporting portion 60d.

[0106] According to such a connecting member 60, the fin stacks 40A and 40B are fixed relative to each other. In addition, a part of the connecting member 60 is interposed between the fin long side direction end face 40Aa of the adjacent fin stack 40A and the fin long side direction end face 40Ba of the fin stack 40B. Thus, it is possible to suppress the mutual contact between the fin stacks 40A and 40B when at least one of the fin stacks 40A and 40B is deformed.

[0107] In the case of the first embodiment, the fin long side direction contact portion 60e of the first fin stack support portion 60c of the connecting member 60 contacts and supports the fin long side direction end face 40Aa of one fin stack 40A on the side close to the other fin stack 40B. Thus, displacement of the fin stack 40A in the fin long side direction, particularly in the direction close to the other fin stack 40B, is suppressed.

[0108] At the same time, the fin long side direction contact portion 60f of the second fin stack support portion 60d contacts and supports the fin long side direction end face 40Ba of the other fin stack 40B on the side close to the one fin stack 40A. Thus, displacement of the fin stack 40B in the fin long side direction, particularly in the direction close to the one fin stack 40A, is suppressed.

[0109] According to the first embodiment described above, in the plate stack type heat exchanger 18 including the fin stacks 40A and 40B adjacently arranged with the fin stacking directions parallel to each other, contact between the fin stacks 40A and 40B can be suppressed.

[0110] (Implementation Method 2)

[0111] The connection member of the present embodiment 2 is different from that of the above-mentioned embodiment 1. Therefore, the present embodiment 2 will be described centering on the different connection member.

[0112] Fig. 9 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member for connecting two fin stacks in a heat exchanger according to Embodiment 2. Fig.10 This is a rear perspective view of the connecting member of the second embodiment. Fig.11 This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member according to the second embodiment, in a state where two fin stacks are connected, as seen from the fin stacking direction.

[0113] like Figures 9 to 11 As shown, the connecting member 160 in the heat exchanger of the second embodiment is made by, for example, pressing a single metal plate such as stainless steel. In addition, the connecting member 160 includes a first fixing portion 160a fixed to the end plates provided at both ends of one fin stack 40A, and a second fixing portion 160b fixed to the end plates provided at both ends of the other fin stack 40B.

[0114] In the case of the second embodiment, the connecting member 160 includes a first fin stack supporting portion 160c that supports one fin stack 40A and a second fin stack supporting portion 160d that supports the other fin stack 40B.

[0115] In addition, in the case of the second embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 160c of the connecting member 160 includes a fin long side direction contact portion 160e that contacts the fin long side direction end face 40Aa of one fin stack 40A and supports the fin stack 40A in the fin long side direction. In addition, the second fin stack support portion 160d includes a fin long side direction contact portion 160f that contacts the fin long side direction end face 40Ba of another fin stack 40B and supports the fin stack 40B in the fin long side direction. The fin long side direction contact portions 160e and 160f are thin plate-shaped extending in the fin stacking direction. In addition, the fin long side direction contact portions 160e and 160f are connected to each other at one end in the fin short side direction (i.e., one end on the downstream side of the flow direction of air A).

[0116] In addition, in the case of the second embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 160c of the connecting member 160 includes a fin short side direction contact portion 160g that contacts one fin short side direction end face 40Ab of the fin stack 40A in the fin short side direction and supports the fin stack 40A. In the case of the second embodiment, the fin short side direction contact portion 160g is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction, and contacts the fin short side direction end face 40Ab of the fin stack 40A on the side where the air A flows in.

[0117] In the case of the second embodiment, the fin short-side direction contact portion 160g in the first fin stack support portion 160c of the connecting member 160 extends from the end portion of the fin long-side direction contact portion 160e on the upstream side in the flow direction of the air A. In addition, the extension length of the fin short-side direction contact portion 160g from the fin long-side direction contact portion 160e is preferably not longer than the length of the header 46c of the fin 46 in the fin stack 40A. Thus, the flow of the air A passing through the central portion in the long-side direction of the fin 46 in the fin stack 40A (i.e., the portion where the internal flow path 46a where the refrigerant flows is provided) is suppressed from being affected by the fin short-side direction contact portion 160g.

[0118] Similarly, the second fin stack support portion 160d of the connecting member 160 includes a fin short side direction contact portion 160h that contacts one fin short side direction end face 40Bb of the fin stack 40B in the fin short side direction and supports the fin stack 40B. In the case of the second embodiment, the fin short side direction contact portion 160h is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction and contacts the fin short side direction end face 40Bb of the fin stack 40B on the side where the air A flows in.

[0119] In the case of the second embodiment, the fin short-side direction contact portion 160h in the second fin stack support portion 160d of the connecting member 160 extends from the end portion of the fin long-side direction contact portion 160f on the upstream side in the flow direction of the air A. In addition, the extension length of the fin short-side direction contact portion 160h from the fin long-side direction contact portion 160f is preferably not longer than the length of the header 46b of the fin 46 in the fin stack 40B. Thus, the flow of the air A along the central portion in the long-side direction of the fin 46 in the fin stack 40B (i.e., the portion where the internal flow path 46a where the refrigerant flows is provided) can be suppressed from being affected by the fin short-side direction contact portion 160h.

[0120] According to the second embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, in the plate stack type heat exchanger including the fin stacks 40A and 40B adjacently arranged with the fin stacking directions parallel to each other, contact between the fin stacks 40A and 40B can be suppressed.

[0121] According to the second embodiment, the connecting member 160 suppresses displacement of the fin stacks 40A and 40B in the fin short side direction, particularly toward the upstream side in the flow direction of the air A. This can suppress contact of the fin stacks 40A and 40B with other components of the adjacent air conditioner at their upstream sides.

[0122] (Implementation 3)

[0123] The connection member of the present embodiment 3 is different from that of the above-mentioned embodiment 1. Therefore, the present embodiment 3 will be described centering on the different connection member.

[0124] Fig.12 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member for connecting two fin stacks in a heat exchanger according to Embodiment 3. Fig.13 This is a rear perspective view of the connecting member of the third embodiment. Fig.14 This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member according to the third embodiment, in a state where two fin stacks are connected, as seen from the fin stacking direction.

[0125] like Figure 12 to Figure 14 As shown in FIG. 1 , the connecting member 260 in the heat exchanger of the third embodiment is made by, for example, pressing a metal plate such as stainless steel. In addition, the connecting member 260 includes: a first fixing portion 260a fixed to the end plates provided at both ends of one fin stack 40A; and a second fixing portion 260b fixed to the end plates provided at both ends of the other fin stack 40B.

[0126] In the case of the third embodiment, the connecting member 260 includes a first fin stack supporting portion 260c that supports one fin stack 40A and a second fin stack supporting portion 260d that supports the other fin stack 40B.

[0127] In the case of the third embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 260c of the connecting member 260 includes a fin long side direction contact portion 260e that contacts the fin long side direction end face 40Aa of one fin stack 40A and supports the fin stack 40A in the fin long side direction. The fin long side direction contact portion 260e is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction. In addition, the second fin stack support portion 260d does not substantially include a portion that contacts the fin long side direction end face 40Ba of the other fin stack 40B.

[0128] In addition, in the case of the third embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 260c of the connecting member 260 includes a fin short side direction contact portion 260g that contacts one fin short side direction end face 40Ab of the fin stack 40A in the fin short side direction and supports the fin stack 40A. In the case of the third embodiment, the fin short side direction contact portion 260g is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction, and contacts the fin short side direction end face 40Ab of the fin stack 40A on the side where the air A flows in. In addition, the fin short side direction contact portion 260g is connected to one end of the fin long side direction contact portion 260e in the fin short side direction (i.e., one end on the upstream side in the flow direction of the air A).

[0129] The second fin stack support portion 260d of the connecting member 260 includes a fin short side direction contact portion 260i that contacts the other fin short side direction end face 40Bc of the fin stack 40B in the fin short side direction and supports the fin stack 40B. In the case of the third embodiment, the fin short side direction contact portion 260i is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction, and contacts the fin short side direction end face 40Bc of the fin stack 40B on the side where the air A flows out. In addition, the fin short side direction contact portion 260i is connected to the other end in the fin short side direction (i.e., one end on the downstream side of the flow direction of the air A) of the fin long side direction contact portion 260e in the first fin stack support portion 260c.

[0130] According to the third embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, in the plate stack type heat exchanger including the fin stacks 40A and 40B adjacently arranged with the fin stacking directions parallel to each other, contact between the fin stacks 40A and 40B can be suppressed.

[0131] Furthermore, the fin stacks 40A and 40B are each prevented from being displaced in the fin short-side direction by the connecting member 260. This can prevent the fin stacks 40A and 40B from contacting other components of the air conditioner adjacent to them in the fin short-side direction.

[0132] (Implementation 4)

[0133] The connection member of the present embodiment 4 is different from that of the above-mentioned embodiment 1. In addition, the present embodiment 4 is similar to the above-mentioned embodiment 3. Therefore, the present embodiment 4 will be described centering on the different connection member.

[0134] Fig.15 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member for connecting two fin stacks in a heat exchanger according to Embodiment 4. Fig.16 This is a rear perspective view of the connecting member of the fourth embodiment. Fig.17 This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member according to the fourth embodiment, in a state where two fin stacks are connected, as seen from the fin stacking direction.

[0135] like Figure 15 to Figure 17 As shown, the connecting member 360 in the heat exchanger of the present embodiment 4 is made by, for example, pressing a sheet of metal plate such as stainless steel. In addition, the connecting member 360 includes: a first fixing portion 360a fixed to the end plates provided at both ends of one fin stack 40A, and a second fixing portion 360b fixed to the end plates provided at both ends of the other fin stack 40B.

[0136] In the case of the fourth embodiment, the connecting member 360 includes a first fin stack supporting portion 360c that supports one fin stack 40A and a second fin stack supporting portion 360d that supports the other fin stack 40B.

[0137] In the case of the fourth embodiment, the second fin stack support portion 360d of the connecting member 360 includes a fin long side direction contact portion 360f that contacts the fin long side direction end surface 40Ba of the other fin stack 40B and supports the fin stack 40B in the fin long side direction. The fin long side direction contact portion 360f is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction. In addition, the first fin stack support portion 360c does not substantially include a portion that contacts the fin long side direction end surface 40Aa of one fin stack 40A.

[0138] In addition, in the case of the fourth embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 360c of the connecting member 360 includes a fin short-side direction contact portion 360j that contacts the other fin short-side direction end face 40Ac of the fin stack 40A in the fin short-side direction and supports the fin stack 40A. In the case of the fourth embodiment, the fin short-side direction contact portion 360j is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction, and contacts the fin short-side direction end face 40Ac of the fin stack 40A on the side where the air A flows out. In addition, the fin short-side direction contact portion 360j is connected to the other end in the fin short-side direction (i.e., one end on the downstream side of the flow direction of the air A) of the fin long-side direction contact portion 360f in the second fin stack support portion 360d.

[0139] The second fin stack support portion 360d of the connecting member 360 includes a fin short side direction contact portion 360h, which contacts one fin short side direction end face 40Bb of the fin stack 40B in the fin short side direction and supports the fin stack 40B. In the case of the present embodiment 4, the fin short side direction contact portion 360h is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction, and contacts the fin short side direction end face 40Bb of the fin stack 40B on the side where the air A flows in. In addition, the fin long side direction contact portion 360h is connected to one end in the fin short side direction (i.e., one end on the upstream side in the flow direction of the air A) of the fin long side direction contact portion 360f in the second fin stack support portion 360d.

[0140] According to the fourth embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, in the plate stack type heat exchanger including the fin stacks 40A and 40B adjacently arranged with the fin stacking directions parallel to each other, contact between the fin stacks 40A and 40B can be suppressed.

[0141] Furthermore, the fin stacks 40A and 40B are each prevented from being displaced in the fin short-side direction by the connecting member 360. This can prevent each of the fin stacks 40A and 40B from contacting other components of the air conditioner adjacent to the fin short-side direction.

[0142] (Implementation method 5)

[0143] The connection member of the present embodiment 5 is different from that of the above-mentioned embodiment 1. In addition, the present embodiment 5 is similar to the above-mentioned embodiment 3. Therefore, the present embodiment 5 will be described centering on the different connection member.

[0144] Fig.18 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member for connecting two fin stacks in a heat exchanger according to Embodiment 5. Fig.19 This is a rear perspective view of the connecting member of the fifth embodiment. Fig. 20This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member according to the fifth embodiment, in a state where two fin stacks are connected, as seen from the fin stacking direction.

[0145] like Figures 18 to 20 As shown, the connecting member 460 in the heat exchanger of the present embodiment 5 is made by, for example, pressing a sheet of metal plate such as stainless steel. In addition, the connecting member 460 includes a first fixing portion 460a fixed to the end plates provided at both ends of one fin stack 40A, and a second fixing portion 460b fixed to the end plates provided at both ends of the other fin stack 40B.

[0146] In the case of the fifth embodiment, the connecting member 460 includes a first fin stack supporting portion 460c that supports one fin stack 40A and a second fin stack supporting portion 460d that supports the other fin stack 40B.

[0147] In the case of the fifth embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 460c of the connecting member 460 includes a fin long side direction contact portion 460e that contacts the fin long side direction end surface 40Aa of one fin stack 40A and supports the fin stack 40A in the fin long side direction. The fin long side direction contact portion 460e is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction. In addition, the second fin stack support portion 460d does not substantially include a portion that contacts the fin long side direction end surface 40Ba of the other fin stack 40B.

[0148] In addition, in the case of the fifth embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 460c of the connecting member 460 includes a fin short side direction contact portion 460g that contacts one fin short side direction end face 40Ab of the fin stack 40A in the fin short side direction and supports the fin stack 40A. In the case of the fifth embodiment, the fin short side direction contact portion 460g is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction, and contacts the fin short side direction end face 40Ab of the fin stack 40A on the side where the air A flows in. In addition, the fin short side direction contact portion 460g is connected to one end of the fin long side direction contact portion 460e in the fin short side direction (i.e., one end on the upstream side in the flow direction of the air A).

[0149] The second fin stack support portion 460d of the connecting member 460 includes a fin short side direction contact portion 460i that contacts the other fin short side direction end face 40Bc of the fin stack 40B in the fin short side direction and supports the fin stack 40B. In the case of the fifth embodiment, the fin short side direction contact portion 460i is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction, and contacts the fin short side direction end face 40Bc of the fin stack 40B on the side where the air A flows out. In addition, the fin short side direction contact portion 460i is connected to the other end in the fin short side direction (i.e., one end on the downstream side of the flow direction of the air A) of the fin long side direction contact portion 460e in the first fin stack support portion 460c.

[0150] In the case of the fifth embodiment, the fin long side direction contact portion 460e in the first fin stack support portion 460c of the connecting member 460 has a plurality of through holes 460k. The plurality of through holes 460k are formed in the fin long side direction contact portion 460e in a state of being arranged at intervals in the fin stacking direction. The reason for providing the plurality of through holes 460k will be described.

[0151] During cooling operation, moisture contained in the air A condenses on the surfaces of the plurality of fins 46 of each fin stack 40A, 40B. Water droplets generated by condensation on each of the fin stacks 40A, 40B are as follows: Figure 2 The final movement is shown to the drain pan 22 located below the fin stacks 40A, 40B.

[0152] When one fin stack 40A is located above the other fin stack 40B, water droplets generated in the fin stack 40A move to the fin stack 40B (i.e., along the surface of the fin 46 in the fin stack 40B) and then move to the drain pan 22. At this time, the fin long side direction contact portion 460e in the first fin stack support portion 460c of the connecting member 460 affects the movement of water droplets from the fin stack 40A to the fin stack 40B. In order to allow water droplets to move from the upper fin stack 40A to the lower fin stack 40B, a plurality of through holes 460k through which water droplets pass are formed in the fin long side direction contact portion 360e.

[0153] According to the fifth embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, in the plate stack type heat exchanger including the fin stacks 40A and 40B adjacently arranged with the fin stacking directions parallel to each other, contact between the fin stacks 40A and 40B can be suppressed.

[0154] Furthermore, the fin stacks 40A and 40B are each prevented from being displaced in the fin short-side direction by the connecting member 460. This can prevent the fin stacks 40A and 40B from contacting other components of the air conditioner adjacent to them in the fin short-side direction.

[0155] Furthermore, when one fin stack 40A is located above the other fin stack 40B, water droplets generated by condensation in the fin stack 40A can move to the fin stack 40B without being blocked by the connecting member 460. As a result, the water droplets can move to the drain pan 22 located below the fin stack 40B.

[0156] (Implementation 6)

[0157] The connection member of the present embodiment 6 is different from that of the above-mentioned embodiment 1. In addition, the present embodiment 6 is similar to the above-mentioned embodiment 5. Therefore, the present embodiment 6 will be described centering on the different connection member.

[0158] Fig.21 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member for connecting two fin stacks in a heat exchanger according to Embodiment 6. Fig. 22 This is a rear perspective view of the connecting member of the sixth embodiment. Fig.23 This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member according to the sixth embodiment, in a state where two fin stacks are connected, as viewed from the fin stacking direction.

[0159] like Figure 21 to Figure 23 As shown, the connecting member 560 in the heat exchanger of the present embodiment 6 is made by, for example, pressing a sheet of metal plate such as stainless steel. In addition, the connecting member 560 includes: a first fixing portion 560a fixed to the end plates provided at both ends of one fin stack 40A, and a second fixing portion 560b fixed to the end plates provided at both ends of the other fin stack 40B.

[0160] In the case of the sixth embodiment, the connecting member 560 includes a first fin stack supporting portion 560c that supports one fin stack 40A and a second fin stack supporting portion 560d that supports the other fin stack 40B.

[0161] In the case of the sixth embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 560c of the connecting member 560 includes a fin long side direction contact portion 560e that contacts the fin long side direction end surface 40Aa of one fin stack 40A and supports the fin stack 40A in the fin long side direction. The fin long side direction contact portion 560e is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction. In addition, the second fin stack support portion 560d does not substantially include a portion that contacts the fin long side direction end surface 40Ba of the other fin stack 40B.

[0162] The fin-longitudinal contact portion 560e of the first fin stack support portion 560c of the coupling member 560 has a plurality of through holes 560k. The plurality of through holes 560k are formed in the fin-longitudinal contact portion 560e in a state of being arranged at intervals in the fin stacking direction.

[0163] In addition, in the case of the sixth embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 560c of the connecting member 560 includes a fin short side direction contact portion 560g that contacts one fin short side direction end face 40Ab of the fin stack 40A in the fin short side direction and supports the fin stack 40A. In the case of the sixth embodiment, the fin short side direction contact portion 560g is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction, and contacts the fin short side direction end face 40Ab of the fin stack 40A on the side where the air A flows in. In addition, the fin short side direction contact portion 560g is connected to one end of the fin long side direction contact portion 560e in the fin short side direction (i.e., one end on the upstream side in the flow direction of the air A).

[0164] The second fin stack support portion 560d of the connecting member 560 includes a fin short side direction contact portion 560i that contacts the other fin short side direction end face 40Bc of the fin stack 40B in the fin short side direction and supports the fin stack 40B. In the case of the sixth embodiment, the fin short side direction contact portion 560i is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction, and contacts the fin short side direction end face 40Bc of the fin stack 40B on the side where the air A flows out. In addition, the fin short side direction contact portion 560i is connected to the other end in the fin short side direction (i.e., one end on the downstream side of the flow direction of the air A) of the fin long side direction contact portion 560e in the first fin stack support portion 560c.

[0165] In addition, the second fin stack support portion 560d of the connecting member 560 includes a fin short side direction contact portion 560h that contacts one fin short side direction end face 40Bb of the fin stack 40B in the fin short side direction and supports the fin stack 40B. In the case of the sixth embodiment, the fin short side direction contact portion 560h is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction and contacts the fin short side direction end face 40Bb of the fin stack 40B on the side where the air A flows in.

[0166] In the sixth embodiment, the fin short-side direction contact portion 560h in the second fin stack supporting portion 560d is connected to the fin short-side direction contact portion 560g in the first fin stack supporting portion 560c via the connecting portion 560m. The connecting portion 560m extends between the fin short-side direction contact portions 560g and 560h to connect them.

[0167] In addition, the connection portion 560m suppresses the air A from flowing into the fin stack 40A via the plurality of through holes 560k formed in the fin long side direction contact portion 560e in the first fin stack support portion 560c. The air A flowing into the fin stack 40A via the through holes 560k does not flow along the central portion in the long side direction of the plurality of fins 46 in the fin stack 40A (i.e., the portion where the internal flow path 46a where the refrigerant flows is provided), and does not substantially exchange heat with the refrigerant. As a result, the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger is reduced. In order to suppress the air A from passing through the through holes 560k as a shortcut that causes the heat exchange efficiency to be reduced, the connection portion 560m suppresses the air A from passing through the through holes 560k.

[0168] According to the sixth embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, in the plate stack type heat exchanger including the fin stacks 40A and 40B adjacently arranged with the fin stacking directions parallel to each other, contact between the fin stacks 40A and 40B can be suppressed.

[0169] Furthermore, the fin stacks 40A and 40B are each prevented from being displaced in the fin short-side direction by the connecting member 560. This can prevent the fin stacks 40A and 40B from contacting other components of the air conditioner adjacent to them in the fin short-side direction.

[0170] Furthermore, when one fin stack 40A is located above the other fin stack 40B, water droplets generated by condensation in the fin stack 40A can move to the fin stack 40B without being blocked by the connecting member 560. As a result, the water droplets can move to the drain pan 22 located below the fin stack 40B.

[0171] In addition, the connection portion 560m of the connection member 560 can suppress a shortcut of the air A through the through hole 560k.

[0172] (Implementation 7)

[0173] The seventh embodiment is an effective embodiment when the fin stack is large in dimension in the fin stacking direction, that is, when the fin stack is large in number and thus the fin stack is easily displaced in the fin short side direction.

[0174] Fig.24 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member for connecting two fin stacks in a heat exchanger according to Embodiment 7. Fig.25 This is a rear perspective view of the connecting member of the seventh embodiment. Fig.26 This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member according to the seventh embodiment, in a state where two fin stacks are connected, as seen from the fin stacking direction.

[0175] like Figure 24 to Figure 26 As shown, the connecting member 660 in the heat exchanger of the present embodiment 7 is made by, for example, pressing a sheet of metal plate such as stainless steel. In addition, the connecting member 660 includes: a first fixing portion 660a fixed to the end plates provided at both ends of one fin stack 40A, and a second fixing portion 660b fixed to the end plates provided at both ends of the other fin stack 640B.

[0176] In the case of the seventh embodiment, the connecting member 660 includes a first fin stack supporting portion 660c that supports one fin stack 40A and a second fin stack supporting portion 660d that supports the other fin stack 640B.

[0177] In the case of the seventh embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 660c of the connecting member 660 includes a fin long side direction contact portion 660e that contacts the fin long side direction end face 40Aa of one fin stack 40A and supports the fin stack 40A in the fin long side direction. The fin long side direction contact portion 660e is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction. In addition, the second fin stack support portion 660d does not substantially include a portion that contacts the fin long side direction end face 640Ba of the other fin stack 640B.

[0178] The fin-longitudinal contact portion 660e in the first fin stack support portion 660c of the coupling member 660 has a plurality of through holes 660k. The plurality of through holes 660k are formed in the fin-longitudinal contact portion 660e in a state of being arranged at intervals in the fin stacking direction.

[0179] In addition, in the case of the seventh embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 660c of the connecting member 660 includes a fin short side direction contact portion 660g that contacts one fin short side direction end face 40Ab of the fin stack 40A in the fin short side direction and supports the fin stack 40A. In the case of the seventh embodiment, the fin short side direction contact portion 660g is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction, and contacts the fin short side direction end face 40Ab of the fin stack 40A on the side where the air A flows in. In addition, the fin short side direction contact portion 660g is connected to one end of the fin long side direction contact portion 660e in the fin short side direction (i.e., one end on the upstream side in the flow direction of the air A).

[0180] In addition, in the case of the seventh embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 660c of the connecting member 660 includes a fin short-side direction contact portion 660j that contacts the other fin short-side direction end face 40Ac of the fin stack 40A in the fin short-side direction and supports the fin stack 40A. In the case of the seventh embodiment, the fin short-side direction contact portion 660j is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction, and contacts the fin short-side direction end face 40Ac of the fin stack 40A on the side where the air A flows out. In addition, the fin short-side direction contact portion 660j is connected to the other end of the fin long-side direction contact portion 660e in the fin short-side direction (i.e., one end on the downstream side of the flow direction of the air A).

[0181] The second fin stack support portion 660d of the connecting member 660 includes a fin short side direction contact portion 660h that contacts one fin short side direction end face 640Bb of the fin stack 640B in the fin short side direction and supports the fin stack 640B. In the case of the seventh embodiment, the fin short side direction contact portion 660h is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction and contacts the fin short side direction end face 640Bb of the fin stack 640B on the side where the air A flows in.

[0182] In the present seventh embodiment, the fin short-side direction contact portion 660h in the second fin stack support portion 660d is connected to the fin short-side direction contact portion 660g in the first fin stack support portion 660c via the connection portion 660m. The connection portion 660m extends between the fin short-side direction contact portions 660g and 660h to connect them.

[0183] In the case of the seventh embodiment, the fin stack 40A is sandwiched by the fin short-side direction contact portions 660g and 660j of the first fin stack support portion 660c. Thus, displacement of the fin stack 40A in two directions in the fin short-side direction is restricted.

[0184] On the other hand, in the fin stack 640B, displacement in the fin short side direction toward the upstream side in the flow direction of the air A is restricted by the fin short side direction contact portion 660h in the second fin stack support portion 660d of the connecting member 660. On the other hand, displacement in the fin short side direction toward the downstream side in the flow direction of the air A is restricted by the fin long side direction contact portion 660e in the first fin stack support portion 660c.

[0185] Specifically, in the case of the seventh embodiment, the fin stack 640B supported by the second fin stack support portion 660d of the connection member 660 has a chamfered surface 640Bd between a fin longitudinal end surface 640Ba and another fin transverse end surface 640Bc. That is, one corner of each of the plurality of fins in the fin stack 640B is chamfered.

[0186] The fin stack 640B is sandwiched by the fin short-side direction contact portion 660h of the connecting member 660 that contacts the fin short-side direction end surface 640Bb and the fin long-side direction contact portion 660e that contacts the chamfered surface 640Bd. Thus, the displacement of the fin stack 640B in both directions in the fin short-side direction is restricted by the connecting member 660, similar to the fin stack 40A.

[0187] According to the seventh embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, in the plate stack type heat exchanger including the fin stacks 40A and 640B adjacently arranged with the fin stacking directions parallel to each other, contact between the fin stacks 40A and 640B can be suppressed.

[0188] Furthermore, displacement of the fin stacks 40A and 640B in both directions in the fin short-side direction is suppressed by the connecting member 660. Thus, it is possible to suppress contact between each of the fin stacks 40A and 640B and other components of the air conditioner adjacent to the fin short-side direction.

[0189] Furthermore, when one fin stack 40A is located above the other fin stack 640B, water droplets generated by condensation in the fin stack 40A can move to the fin stack 640B without being blocked by the connecting member 660. As a result, the water droplets can move to the drain pan 22 located below the fin stack 640B.

[0190] Furthermore, the connection portion 660m of the connection member 660 can suppress a shortcut of the air A through the through hole 660k.

[0191] (Implementation 8)

[0192] This eighth embodiment is similar to the seventh embodiment described above and is effective when the dimension of the fin stack in the fin stacking direction is large, that is, when the number of stacked fins is large and the fin stack is easily displaced in the fin short side direction.

[0193] Fig. 27 This is a front perspective view of a connecting member for connecting two fin stacks in a heat exchanger according to Embodiment 8. Fig.28 This is a rear perspective view of the connecting member of the eighth embodiment. Fig.29This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member according to the eighth embodiment, in a state where two fin stacks are connected, as viewed from the fin stacking direction.

[0194] like Fig.29 As shown, in the case of the eighth embodiment, the fin stacks 740A and 740B are aligned with each other in the fin stacking direction. Figure 8 The shapes of the fin stacks 40A and 40B in the above-mentioned embodiment 1 are different. Specifically, the fin stack 740A has chamfered surfaces 740Ad and 740Ae between each fin short-side direction end face 740Ab and 740Ac and the fin long-side direction end face 740Aa. Similarly, the fin stack 740B has chamfered surfaces 740Bd and 740Be between each fin short-side direction end face 740Bb and 740Bc and the fin long-side direction end face 740Ba.

[0195] like Figure 27 to Figure 29 As shown, the connecting member 760 in the heat exchanger of the present embodiment 8 is made by, for example, pressing a sheet of metal plate such as stainless steel. In addition, the connecting member 760 includes: a first fixing portion 760a fixed to the end plates provided at both ends of one fin stack 740A, and a second fixing portion 760b fixed to the end plates provided at both ends of the other fin stack 740B.

[0196] In the case of the eighth embodiment, the connecting member 760 includes a first fin stack supporting portion 760c that supports one fin stack 740A and a second fin stack supporting portion 760d that supports the other fin stack 740B.

[0197] In the case of the eighth embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 760c of the connecting member 760 includes a fin long side direction contact portion 760e that contacts the fin long side direction end face 740Aa of one fin stack 740A and supports the fin stack 740A in the fin long side direction. The fin long side direction contact portion 760e is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction. In addition, the second fin stack support portion 760d does not substantially include a portion that contacts the fin long side direction end face 740Ba of the other fin stack 740B.

[0198] The fin-longitudinal contact portion 760e of the first fin stack support portion 760c of the coupling member 760 has a plurality of through holes 760k. The plurality of through holes 760k are formed in the fin-longitudinal contact portion 760e in a state of being arranged at intervals in the fin stacking direction.

[0199] In addition, in the case of the eighth embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 760c of the connecting member 760 includes a fin short side direction contact portion 760g that contacts one fin short side direction end face 740Ab of the fin stack 740A in the fin short side direction and supports the fin stack 740A. In the case of the eighth embodiment, the fin short side direction contact portion 760g is in the shape of a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction and contacts the fin short side direction end face 740Ab of the fin stack 740A on the side into which the air A flows.

[0200] In the case of the eighth embodiment, in the first fin stack support portion 760c of the connection member 760, the fin short-side direction contact portion 760g is connected to the fin long-side direction contact portion 760e via the chamfered surface contact portion 760n. The chamfered surface contact portion 760n contacts the chamfered surface 740Ad of the fin stack 740A and supports the fin stack 740A.

[0201] In addition, in the case of the eighth embodiment, the first fin stack support portion 760c of the connecting member 760 includes a fin short side direction contact portion 760j that contacts with another fin short side direction end face 740Ac of the fin stack 740A in the fin short side direction and supports the fin stack 740A. In the case of the eighth embodiment, the fin short side direction contact portion 760j is in the shape of a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction and contacts with the fin short side direction end face 740Ac of the fin stack 740A on the side where the air A flows out.

[0202] In the case of the eighth embodiment, in the first fin stack support portion 760c of the connection member 760, the fin short-side direction contact portion 760j is connected to the fin long-side direction contact portion 760e via the chamfered surface contact portion 760p. The chamfered surface contact portion 760p contacts the chamfered surface 740Ae of the fin stack 740A to support the fin stack 740A.

[0203] The second fin stack support portion 760d of the connecting member 760 includes a fin short side direction contact portion 760h that contacts one fin short side direction end face 740Bb of the fin stack 740B in the fin short side direction and supports the fin stack 740B. In the case of the eighth embodiment, the fin short side direction contact portion 760h is a thin plate extending in the fin stacking direction and contacts the fin short side direction end face 740Bb of the fin stack 740B on the side where the air A flows in.

[0204] In the case of the eighth embodiment, the fin short side direction contact portion 760h in the second fin stack support portion 760d is connected to the fin short side direction contact portion 760g in the first fin stack support portion 760c via the connecting portion 760m and the chamfered surface contact portion 760q. The chamfered surface contact portion 760q contacts the chamfered surface 740Be of the fin stack 740B and supports the fin stack 740B. The connecting portion 760m extends between the fin short side direction contact portion 760g and the chamfered surface contact portion 760q and connects them.

[0205] In the case of the eighth embodiment, the fin stack 740A is sandwiched by the fin short-side direction contact portions 760g and 760j of the first fin stack support portion 760c. Thus, displacement of the fin stack 740A in two directions in the fin short-side direction is restricted.

[0206] On the other hand, in the fin stack 740B, displacement in the fin short side direction to the upstream side in the flow direction of the air A is restricted by the fin short side direction contact portion 760h in the second fin stack support portion 760d of the connecting member 760. On the other hand, displacement in the fin short side direction to the downstream side in the flow direction of the air A is restricted by the contact between the chamfered surface 740Bd of the fin stack 740B and the fin long side direction contact portion 760e of the first fin stack support portion 760c.

[0207] According to the eighth embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, in the plate stack type heat exchanger including the fin stacks 740A and 740B adjacently arranged with the fin stacking directions parallel to each other, contact between the fin stacks 740A and 740B can be suppressed.

[0208] Furthermore, displacement of the fin stacks 740A and 740B in both directions in the fin short-side direction is suppressed by the connecting member 760. Thus, it is possible to suppress contact between each of the fin stacks 740A and 740B and other components of the air conditioner adjacent to the fin short-side direction.

[0209] Furthermore, when one fin stack 740A is located above the other fin stack 740B, water droplets generated by condensation in the fin stack 740A can move to the fin stack 740B without being blocked by the connecting member 760. As a result, the water droplets can move to the drain pan 22 located below the fin stack 740B.

[0210] Furthermore, the connection portion 760m of the connection member 760 can prevent the air A from taking a shortcut through the through hole 760k.

[0211] As mentioned above, although the present invention has been described by taking the above-mentioned multiple embodiments as examples, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0212] For example, in the case of the above-mentioned embodiment 1, if Figure 8 As shown, the fin stacks 40A and 40B are connected by the connecting member 60 in a manner that the end faces 40Aa and 40Ba of the fin long side direction of each fin are opposite to each other and approach each other as they go from one end to the other end in the short side direction of the fin. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the end faces 40Aa and 40Ba of the fin stacks 40A and 40B that are opposite to each other in the long side direction of the fin may also be parallel to each other.

[0213] The heat exchanger of the first embodiment is provided in an air conditioner for indoor air conditioning. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto. The heat exchanger of the embodiment of the present invention can be used in a device that requires heat exchange between a first fluid and a second fluid.

[0214] That is, the heat exchanger of the embodiment of the present invention broadly comprises: a first and a second fin stack respectively formed by stacking a plurality of fins each including an internal flow path for a first fluid to flow in a state where a gap is left for a second fluid to pass through; and a connecting component connecting the first fin stack and the second fin stack in a manner such that the fin stacking directions of the first fin stack and the second fin stack are parallel to each other and one end face in the long side direction of the fin of each of the first fin stack and the second fin stack are adjacent to each other, the connecting component connecting the first fin stack and the second fin stack in a state where at least a portion of the connecting component is interposed between the end face in the long side direction of the fin of the first fin stack and the end face in the long side direction of the fin of the second fin stack.

[0215] Possibility of industrial application

[0216] The present invention is applicable not only to refrigerant and air but also to a heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between a first fluid and a second fluid.

Claims

1. A heat exchanger, characterized in that: have: a first fin stack and a second fin stack respectively formed by stacking a plurality of fins each including an internal flow path for a first fluid to flow in a state where a gap for a second fluid to pass through is formed; and A connecting member connecting the first fin stack and the second fin stack in such a manner that the fin stacking directions of the first fin stack and the second fin stack are parallel to each other and one fin long side end face of each of the first fin stack and the second fin stack is adjacent to each other, The connecting member connects the first fin stack and the second fin stack in a state where at least a portion of the connecting member is interposed between the fin-longitudinal end surface of the first fin stack and the fin-longitudinal end surface of the second fin stack.

2. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first fin stack and the second fin stack are connected by the connecting member so that the fin long side end surface of the first fin stack and the fin long side end surface of the second fin stack are opposite to each other and approach each other from one end to the other end in the fin short side direction.

3. The heat exchanger according to claim 2, characterized in that: The connecting member comprises: a first fin stack supporting portion that contacts and supports the first fin stack; and A second fin stack supporting portion contacts and supports the second fin stack.

4. The heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first fin stack supporting portion includes a fin-longitudinal direction contact portion that contacts the fin-longitudinal direction end surface of the first fin stack.

5. The heat exchanger according to claim 4, characterized in that: The fin longitudinal direction contact portion of the first fin stack supporting portion has a plurality of through holes.

6. The heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first fin stack support portion includes a fin short-side direction contact portion that contacts one fin short-side direction end surface of the first fin stack.

7. The heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that: The second fin stack supporting portion includes a fin-longitudinal direction contact portion that contacts the fin-longitudinal direction end surface of the second fin stack.

8. The heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that: The second fin stack support portion includes a fin short-side direction contact portion that contacts one fin short-side direction end surface of the second fin stack.

9. The heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first fin stack support portion includes: a fin-longitudinal-direction contact portion that contacts the fin-longitudinal-direction end surface of the first fin stack; and a fin short-side direction contact portion that contacts one fin short-side direction end surface of the first fin stack, The second fin stack support portion includes a fin short-side direction contact portion that contacts one fin short-side direction end surface of the second fin stack. The fin longitudinal direction contact portion of the first fin stack support portion has a plurality of through holes. The connecting member further includes a connecting portion extending between the fin short-side direction contact portion in the first fin stack supporting portion and the fin short-side direction contact portion in the second fin stack supporting portion to connect them.

10. The heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first fin stack support portion includes: a fin-longitudinal-direction contact portion contacting the fin-longitudinal-direction end surface of the first fin stack; a first fin short-side direction contact portion that contacts one fin short-side direction end surface of the first fin stack; and a second fin short-side direction contact portion that contacts another fin short-side direction end surface of the first fin stack, The second fin stack support portion includes a fin short-side direction contact portion that contacts one fin short-side direction end surface of the second fin stack. The fin longitudinal direction contact portion of the first fin stack support portion has a plurality of through holes. The connecting member includes a connecting portion extending between the first fin short-side direction contact portion in the first fin stack supporting portion and the fin short-side direction contact portion in the second fin stack supporting portion to connect them. The second fin stack has a chamfered surface between the end surface in the fin long-side direction and the end surface in the other fin short-side direction. The fin longitudinal direction contact portion of the first fin stack supporting portion is in contact with the chamfered surface of the second fin stack.

11. The heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first fin stack has a first chamfered surface between the fin long-side end surface and one fin short-side end surface, and has a second chamfered surface between the fin long-side end surface and the other fin short-side end surface. The second fin stack has a third chamfered surface between the fin long-side end surface and one fin short-side end surface, and has a fourth chamfered surface between the fin long-side end surface and the other fin short-side end surface. The first fin stack support portion includes: a fin-longitudinal-direction contact portion contacting the fin-longitudinal-direction end surface of the first fin stack; a first fin short-side direction contact portion contacting with one fin short-side direction end surface of the first fin stack; a second fin short-side direction contact portion contacting with another fin short-side direction end surface of the first fin stack; a first chamfered surface contact portion in contact with the first chamfered surface; and a second chamfered surface contact portion in contact with the second chamfered surface, The second fin stack support portion includes: a fin short-side direction contact portion that contacts the one fin short-side direction end surface of the second fin stack; and a third chamfered surface contact portion in contact with the third chamfered surface, The connecting member includes a connecting portion extending between the first fin short-side direction contact portion in the first fin stack supporting portion and the third chamfered surface contact portion in the second fin stack supporting portion to connect them. The fin longitudinal direction contact portion of the first fin stack supporting portion is in contact with the fourth chamfered surface of the second fin stack.

12. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first fin stack and the second fin stack each include end plates at both ends in the fin stacking direction. Both ends of the connecting member in the fin stacking direction are fixed to the end plates of each of the first fin stack and the second fin stack.

13. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connecting member is a pressed product of a metal plate.

14. An air conditioner, characterized in that: include: A compressor that delivers refrigerant; A heat exchanger in which the refrigerant flows; and a fan to generate an air flow through the heat exchanger, The heat exchanger has: a first fin stack and a second fin stack respectively formed by stacking a plurality of fins each including an internal flow path for a refrigerant to flow in a state where a gap for air to pass through is formed; and A connecting member connecting the first fin stack and the second fin stack in such a manner that the fin stacking directions of the first fin stack and the second fin stack are parallel to each other and one fin long side end face of each of the first fin stack and the second fin stack is adjacent to each other, The connecting member connects the first fin stack and the second fin stack in a state where at least a portion of the connecting member is interposed between the fin-longitudinal end surface of the first fin stack and the fin-longitudinal end surface of the second fin stack.

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