Heat exchanger

By installing drainage ribs on the fins of the heat exchanger, the problem of water accumulation in the collar part is solved, and the drainage properties of the heat exchanger and the life of the equipment are improved.

CN119678009APending Publication Date: 2025-03-21DAIKIN INDUSTRIES LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202380057986.3
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2022-08-12
Filing Date
2023-08-07
Publication Date
2025-03-21

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In the collar part of the heat exchanger, water is easily accumulated in the flared part of the fin, causing water to accumulate in the convex space, affecting the heat exchange efficiency and the life of the equipment.

Method used

A heat exchanger is designed, and its fins are provided with drainage ribs. The drainage ribs extend from the convex space to guide the water accumulated in the convex space to the drainage ribs, thereby promoting the discharge of water.

Benefits of technology

By guiding water to drainage ribs, the problem of water accumulation is effectively solved, the drainage properties of the heat exchanger are improved, the risks of continuous wetting and corrosion of the equipment are reduced, and the service life of the equipment is extended.

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Abstract

A heat exchanger (10) is provided with a heat transfer tube (20) and a plurality of fins (30). The heat transfer tube (20) extends in a first direction. The fins (30) are stacked in a first direction. Each fin (30) comprises a main body part (31) and a lantern ring part (32). The heat transfer tube (20) passes through the collar part (32). The collar portion (32) has a first portion (33), a second portion (34), and a third portion (35). The first portion (33) extends in a first direction from the main body portion (31). The second portion (34) extends from the first portion (33) toward the heat transfer tube (20). The third portion (35) extends in the first direction from the second portion (34). The second portion (34) of the first fin (131) is in contact with the tip portion of the collar portion (32) of the adjacent second fin (132). The fins (30) are provided with drainage ribs (130). The drainage rib (130) extends from a convex space (S) formed by the first part (33) and the second part (34) of the first fin (131) and the tail end of the collar part (32) of the second fin (132).
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to heat exchangers. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as disclosed in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-123458), a heat exchanger for an air conditioner or the like includes a fin having a collar portion. Figure 1 The collar portion 10 includes a disc-shaped seat portion 11 , a vertical cylindrical portion 12 above the seat portion 11 , and a flared portion 13 above the vertical cylindrical portion 12 . Summary of the Invention

[0003] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0004] The inventors of the present invention have discovered the following problem: Figure 1 When the fins 1 are stacked, the flared portion 13 of one fin 1 enters the recess of the vertical cylindrical portion 12 of another adjacent fin 1 in the collar portion 10 , and water easily accumulates in the convex space formed in the recess.

[0005] Means for solving problems

[0006] A heat exchanger according to a first aspect includes a heat transfer tube and a plurality of fins. The heat transfer tube extends in a first direction. The plurality of fins are stacked in the first direction. The plurality of fins include a main body and a collar. The main body extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The collar is for the heat transfer tube to pass through. The collar includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. The first portion extends from the main body in the first direction. The second portion extends from the first portion toward the heat transfer tube. The third portion extends from the second portion along the heat transfer tube in the first direction. The second portion of the first fin contacts the end portion of the collar portion of the adjacent second fin. Drainage ribs are provided on the fins. The drainage ribs extend from a convex space formed by the first and second portions of the first fin and the end portion of the collar portion of the second fin.

[0007] In the heat exchanger of the first aspect, water tends to accumulate in the convex space formed by the first and second portions of the first fin and the distal end of the collar portion of the second fin. However, in the heat exchanger of the first aspect, the drainage ribs extend from the convex space, thereby guiding water accumulated in the convex space toward the drainage ribs. This facilitates drainage of the convex space, which is prone to water accumulation.

[0008] The heat exchanger according to a second aspect is the heat exchanger according to the first aspect, wherein the collar portion further includes a fourth portion extending from the third portion toward the outer periphery, and the second portion of the first fin contacts the fourth portion of the adjacent second fin.

[0009] In the heat exchanger according to the second aspect, the plurality of fins can be easily stacked in the first direction by the fourth portion.

[0010] Furthermore, in the heat exchanger according to the second aspect, the problem of water easily accumulating in the convex space formed by the fourth portion of the second fin and the first and second portions of the first fin is significant, and therefore the effect of the drainage rib is significant.

[0011] A heat exchanger according to a third aspect is the heat exchanger according to the first aspect or the second aspect, wherein the drain rib is provided on the main body portion, and the drain rib protrudes in the first direction to the second portion.

[0012] In the heat exchanger according to the third aspect, water in the convex space can be easily guided to the drainage ribs.

[0013] A heat exchanger according to a fourth aspect is the heat exchanger according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the fin includes a plurality of collar portions, and the drainage rib extends in the second direction from a first collar portion to a lower collar portion.

[0014] In the heat exchanger according to the fourth aspect, water in the convex space of the upper collar portion can be guided to the convex space of the lower collar portion by the drainage ribs.

[0015] The heat exchanger according to a fifth aspect is the heat exchanger according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the convex space has a toroidal space when viewed from the first direction.

[0016] In the heat exchanger according to the fifth aspect, the annular space can be utilized to guide water accumulated in the entire circumference of the space to the drainage ribs.

[0017] The heat exchanger according to a sixth aspect is the heat exchanger according to the fifth aspect, wherein the convex space further includes a triangular space when viewed from the first direction, the triangular space is connected to the annular space, and the drainage rib extends from the triangular space.

[0018] In the heat exchanger according to the sixth aspect, water accumulated in the convex space can be moved to the triangular space and guided from the triangular space to the drainage rib.

[0019] A heat exchanger according to a seventh aspect is the heat exchanger according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein the heat exchanger is included in an indoor unit of an air-conditioning apparatus.

[0020] The heat exchanger according to the seventh aspect can be applied to a heat exchanger in an indoor unit of an air-conditioning apparatus. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1This is a schematic configuration diagram of an air-conditioning apparatus including a heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of a heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the fins constituting the heat exchanger as viewed from the front.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a plan view of the fins that make up the heat exchanger as seen from the rear.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a plan view of the vicinity of one collar portion of the heat exchanger as viewed from the front.

[0026] Figure 6 is Figure 5 The third and fourth parts are omitted and the second part is shaded.

[0027] Figure 7 It is along Figure 5 Cross-sectional view along line VII-VII.

[0028] Figure 8 It is along Figure 5 Cross-sectional view along line VIII-VIII.

[0029] Figure 9 It is along Figure 5 Cross-sectional view along line IX-IX.

[0030] Figure 10 This is a bottom view of the fins constituting the heat exchanger as seen from below.

[0031] Figure 11 Yes Figure 4 Illustration of the flow of water in the water.

[0032] Figure 12 This is a photo of the vicinity of the conventional collar portion as seen from the front.

[0033] Figure 13 This is a photograph showing the vicinity of conventional multiple collar portions as viewed from the right side.

[0034] Figure 14 This is a plan view of the vicinity of one collar portion of a heat exchanger according to a modified example as viewed from the front.

[0035] Figure 15 This is a plan view of the vicinity of a collar portion of a heat exchanger according to another modified example as viewed from the front. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] (1) Air conditioning unit

[0037] Reference Figure 1 An air conditioner equipped with a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Figure 1 As shown, the air-conditioning apparatus 200 is an apparatus used for cooling and heating indoors of a building or the like by performing a vapor compression refrigeration cycle operation.

[0038] The air conditioning apparatus 200 mainly includes an outdoor unit 220, an indoor unit 230, a liquid refrigerant communication pipe 240 connecting the outdoor unit 220 and the indoor unit 230, and a gas refrigerant communication pipe 250. Furthermore, the vapor compression refrigerant circuit 210 of the air conditioning apparatus 200 is constructed by connecting the outdoor unit 220 and the indoor unit 230 via the liquid refrigerant communication pipe 240 and the gas refrigerant communication pipe 250.

[0039] (1-1) Outdoor unit

[0040] The outdoor unit 220 is installed outdoors and mainly includes a compressor 221 , a flow switching mechanism 222 , an outdoor heat exchanger 223 , and an expansion mechanism 224 .

[0041] The compressor 221 is a mechanism that compresses low-pressure refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle to high pressure.

[0042] The flow switching mechanism 222 is a mechanism that switches the flow direction of the refrigerant when switching between cooling operation and heating operation. During cooling operation, the flow switching mechanism 222 connects the discharge side of the compressor 221 to the gas side of the outdoor heat exchanger 223, and connects the gas side of the indoor heat exchanger 231 (described later) to the suction side of the compressor 221 via the gas refrigerant connecting pipe 250 (see Figure 1 Furthermore, during heating operation, the flow switching mechanism 222 connects the discharge side of the compressor 221 to the gas side of the indoor heat exchanger 231 via the gas refrigerant connecting pipe 250, and connects the gas side of the outdoor heat exchanger 223 to the suction side of the compressor 221 (see FIG. Figure 1 222 in the flow path switching mechanism).

[0043] The outdoor heat exchanger 223 is a heat exchanger that functions as a radiator for the refrigerant during cooling operation and as an evaporator for the refrigerant during heating operation. The liquid side of the outdoor heat exchanger 223 is connected to the expansion mechanism 224, and the gas side is connected to the flow path switching mechanism 222.

[0044] The expansion mechanism 224 is a mechanism that decompresses the high-pressure liquid refrigerant after dissipating heat in the outdoor heat exchanger 223 before sending it to the indoor heat exchanger 231 during cooling operation, and decompresses the high-pressure liquid refrigerant after dissipating heat in the indoor heat exchanger 231 before sending it to the outdoor heat exchanger 223 during heating operation.

[0045] Furthermore, the outdoor unit 220 is provided with an outdoor fan 225 for sucking outdoor air into the outdoor unit 220 , supplying the outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger 223 , and then discharging the outdoor air to the outside of the outdoor unit 220 .

[0046] (1-2) Indoor unit

[0047] The indoor unit 230 is installed indoors and mainly includes an indoor heat exchanger 231 and an indoor fan 232 .

[0048] Indoor heat exchanger 231 is a heat exchanger that functions as an evaporator for the refrigerant during cooling operation and as a radiator for the refrigerant during heating operation. The liquid side of indoor heat exchanger 231 is connected to liquid refrigerant communication pipe 240, and the gas side is connected to gas refrigerant communication pipe 250.

[0049] Furthermore, the indoor unit 230 is provided with an indoor fan 232 for sucking indoor air into the indoor unit 230 , supplying the indoor air to the indoor heat exchanger 231 , and then discharging the indoor air to the outside of the indoor unit 230 .

[0050] (1-3) Action

[0051] (1-3-1) Refrigeration Operation

[0052] When air conditioner 200 performs cooling operation, low-pressure refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is drawn into compressor 221, compressed to the high pressure within the refrigeration cycle, and then discharged. The high-pressure refrigerant discharged from compressor 221 is sent to outdoor heat exchanger 223 via flow switching mechanism 222. The high-pressure refrigerant sent to outdoor heat exchanger 223 exchanges heat with outdoor air supplied by outdoor fan 225 in outdoor heat exchanger 223, dissipating heat. After dissipating heat in outdoor heat exchanger 223, the high-pressure refrigerant is sent to expansion mechanism 224, where it is decompressed to the low pressure within the refrigeration cycle. The low-pressure refrigerant, decompressed in expansion mechanism 224, is sent to indoor heat exchanger 231 via liquid refrigerant communication pipe 240. The low-pressure refrigerant sent to indoor heat exchanger 231 exchanges heat with indoor air supplied by indoor fan 232 in indoor heat exchanger 231, evaporating. This cools the indoor air and blows it into the room. The low-pressure refrigerant evaporated in the indoor heat exchanger 231 is sucked into the compressor 221 again through the gas refrigerant communication pipe 250 and the flow switching mechanism 222 .

[0053] (1-3-2) Heating Operation

[0054] When air conditioner 200 is operating in heating mode, low-pressure refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is drawn into compressor 221, compressed to the high pressure within the refrigeration cycle, and then discharged. The high-pressure refrigerant discharged from compressor 221 is delivered to indoor heat exchanger 231 via flow switching mechanism 222 and gas refrigerant connecting pipe 250. The high-pressure refrigerant delivered to indoor heat exchanger 231 exchanges heat with indoor air supplied by indoor fan 232 in indoor heat exchanger 231, dissipating heat. This heats the indoor air and is then blown into the room. After dissipating heat in indoor heat exchanger 231, the high-pressure refrigerant is delivered to expansion mechanism 224 via liquid refrigerant connecting pipe 240, where it is decompressed to the low pressure within the refrigeration cycle. The low-pressure refrigerant, decompressed in expansion mechanism 224, is delivered to outdoor heat exchanger 223. The low-pressure refrigerant delivered to outdoor heat exchanger 223 evaporates by exchanging heat with outdoor air supplied by indoor fan 232 in outdoor heat exchanger 223. The low-pressure refrigerant evaporated in the outdoor heat exchanger 223 passes through the flow switching mechanism 222 and is sucked into the compressor 221 again.

[0055] (2) Heat exchanger

[0056] (2-1) Overall structure

[0057] Reference Figures 1 to 11A heat exchanger 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. It should be noted that, in the following description, expressions such as "up," "down," "left," "right," "front," and "rear" are used as appropriate to indicate directions. These expressions indicate directions in normal use and are not intended to be limiting.

[0058] The heat exchanger 10 of this embodiment is included in Figure 1 The indoor unit 230 of the air-conditioning device 200 is shown in FIG. Figure 1 The indoor heat exchanger 231 is shown. The heat exchanger 10 of this embodiment is a cross-fin-tube heat exchanger.

[0059] like Figure 2 As shown, the heat exchanger 10 includes a heat transfer tube 20 and a plurality of fins 30. The heat transfer tube 20 extends in a first direction. The fins 30 are stacked in the first direction. The first direction here refers to the front-to-back direction. The heat exchanger 10 exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing through the heat transfer tube 20 and the air flowing outside the heat transfer tube 20. The heat exchanger 10 exchanges heat between the air and the refrigerant without mixing with each other.

[0060] (2-2) Detailed structure

[0061] (2-2-1) Heat transfer tube

[0062] The heat exchanger 10 of this embodiment includes a plurality of heat transfer tubes 20. The plurality of heat transfer tubes 20 are arranged in a second direction. The second direction intersects the first direction. Here, the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction. Specifically, the second direction is the vertical direction.

[0063] The heat transfer pipe 20 allows the refrigerant to flow therein. The heat transfer pipe 20 has a cylindrical shape. Here, the heat transfer pipe 20 is a round pipe.

[0064] The heat transfer tube 20 has through-holes formed therein for passage of the refrigerant that exchanges heat with the indoor air in the heat exchanger 10. The through-holes of the heat transfer tube 20 extend in a first direction. Here, the first direction is the longitudinal direction of the heat transfer tube 20. The heat transfer tube 20 is made of, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0065] (2-2-2) Fins

[0066] The fins 30 increase the heat transfer area between the heat transfer tubes 20 and the indoor air, thereby promoting heat exchange between the refrigerant and the indoor air. The fins 30 are in contact with the heat transfer tubes 20. The fins 30 are made of, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0067] The plurality of fins 30 are arranged in a first direction. The fins 30 are arranged in a manner that intersects (orthogonally in this case) the extending direction of the heat transfer tube 20. In this embodiment, the plurality of fins 30 are arranged in parallel and at equal intervals. Figure 2In FIG. 1 , two adjacent fins 30 are represented as a first fin 131 and a second fin 132 .

[0068] The fin 30 has Figure 3 One surface 30a and Figure 4 Here, one surface 30a is a front surface when viewed from the front in the first direction, and the other surface 30b is a rear surface when viewed from the rear in the first direction.

[0069] like Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the plurality of fins 30 include a main body 31 and a collar 32. The main body 31 extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction. Here, the main body 31 extends in the second direction, orthogonal to the first direction, i.e., in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the vertical direction is the direction of gravity. The main body 31 is a flat plate-shaped component.

[0070] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the main body 31 is formed with cutouts 31a for promoting heat transfer. Multiple cutouts 31a are arranged in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction. Here, the third direction is the left-right direction. Furthermore, the cutouts 31a extend in the second direction. Here, the cutouts 31a protrude forward. In other words, the cutouts 31a protrude from one surface 30a toward the other surface 30b of the adjacent fin 30.

[0071] like Figure 2 As shown, the collar portion 32 is for the heat transfer pipe 20 to pass through. Specifically, the collar portion 32 has a through hole for the heat transfer pipe 20 to pass through.

[0072] like Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the collar portion 32 includes a first portion 33, a second portion 34, a third portion 35, and a fourth portion 36. The first portion 33, the second portion 34, the third portion 35, and the fourth portion 36 are formed by a single component. Here, the first portion 33, the second portion 34, the third portion 35, and the fourth portion 36 are formed by nesting.

[0073] The first portion 33 extends in the first direction from the main body portion 31 . Here, the first portion 33 is orthogonal to the main body portion 31 .

[0074] The second portion 34 extends from the first portion 33 toward the heat transfer tube 20. In other words, the second portion 34 extends in the second direction. Here, the second portion 34 is orthogonal to the first portion 33. The second portion will be described later.

[0075] The third portion 35 extends from the second portion 34 in the first direction along the heat transfer tube 20. The third portion 35 is in contact with the heat transfer tube 20. Here, the third portion 35 is perpendicular to the second portion 34.

[0076] The fourth portion 36 extends outward from the third portion 35. In other words, the fourth portion 36 extends in the second direction. Here, the fourth portion 36 is orthogonal to the third portion 35. The length of the fourth portion 36 in the second direction is shorter than the length of the second portion 34 in the second direction.

[0077] like Figure 2 As shown, the second portion 34 of the first fin 131 contacts the distal end of the collar portion 32 of the adjacent second fin 132. Here, the second portion 34 of the first fin contacts the fourth portion 36 of the adjacent second fin. The second portion 34 and the fourth portion 36 extend in the same direction.

[0078] Here, the second part 34 will be described. Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 As shown, in the first direction (in Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 When viewed from the front (in the middle), the second portion 34 has a portion where the distance between the inner circumferential surface 34a and the outer circumferential surface 34b is the first dimension L1, and a portion where the distance between the inner circumferential surface 34a and the outer circumferential surface 34b is the second dimension L2. Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the second dimension L2 is larger than the first dimension L1.

[0079] exist Figure 6 In the example, first dimension L1 is the dimension of the portion extending along a third direction orthogonal to the first direction. Specifically, the portion having first dimension L1 is located at least at the left and right ends. Here, the portion having first dimension L1 is the portion of the second portion 34 that is not provided with the triangular portion 34d described later.

[0080] The second dimension L2 is the dimension of the portion extending along the second direction. Specifically, the portion having the second dimension L2 is located at least on one of the upper end and the lower end. Here, the portion having the second dimension L2 is the upper end and the lower end of the second portion 34.

[0081] In this embodiment, when the Figure 5 and Figure 6 In other words, when viewed from the first direction (in the front), the second portion 34 has a teardrop shape. Figure 5 and Figure 6 When viewed from the front (center), the second portion 34 has a circular ring portion 34c and a triangular triangular portion 34d. The triangular triangular portion 34d is connected to a portion of the circular ring portion 34c. Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the figure, the triangular portion 34d has a V-shape.

[0082] The annular portion 34c is an area surrounded by two concentric circles. The annular portion 34c extends throughout the entire circumference of the second portion 34. The portion having the first dimension L1 is formed solely by the annular portion 34c without the triangular portion 34d. Therefore, the first dimension L1 in this embodiment is a constant value.

[0083] The triangular portion 34d and the annular portion 34c form a portion having a second dimension L2. Therefore, the second dimension L2 of this embodiment is not a constant value. Specifically, the second dimension L2 is a value greater than the first dimension L1 of the annular portion 34c, and the value varies depending on the position. The maximum value of the second dimension L2 is, for example, more than twice the first dimension L1. The maximum value of the second dimension L2 here is the distance extending from the upper end of the second portion 34 downward (inner circumferential surface 34a) and the distance extending from the lower end of the second portion 34 upward (inner circumferential surface 34a).

[0084] The triangular portion 34d is disposed at the lower end of the second portion 34. Specifically, the triangular portion 34d has a shape extending downward. Here, the triangular portion 34d is also disposed at the upper end of the second portion 34. Specifically, the triangular portion 34d also has a shape extending upward.

[0085] The first dimension L1 is, for example, not less than 0.5 mm and not more than 0.9 mm. The second dimension L2 is, for example, not less than 1.0 mm and not more than 1.9 mm. The maximum value of the second dimension L2 is, for example, not less than 1.5 mm and not more than 1.9 mm.

[0086] like Figures 3 to 6 、 Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, the fin 30 is provided with a drainage rib 130. The drainage rib 130 extends from the convex space S. The convex space S is formed by Figure 2 The first portion 33 and the second portion 34 of the first fin 131 are shown, and the distal end of the collar portion 32 of the second fin 132 is formed. The drainage rib 130 causes the water in the convex space S to flow in the second direction (here, downward).

[0087] The convex space S of this embodiment is formed by the first portion 33 and the second portion 34 of the first fin 131 and the fourth portion 36 of the second fin 132. Figure 2 The fourth portion 36 in the middle enters the recess around the collar portion 32 of the first fin 131 adjacent to the second fin 132, and a convex space S is formed in the recess.

[0088] Specifically, when viewed from a first direction (here, the front), the convex space S has a teardrop shape. In other words, when viewed from the first direction, the convex space S comprises a circular ring-shaped space and a triangular-shaped space. The circular ring-shaped space is provided along the entire circumference. The triangular-shaped space is connected to the circular ring-shaped space. In this embodiment, the triangular-shaped space is provided at the upper and lower ends.

[0089] The convex space S formed by the portions of the first portion 33 and the second portion 34 of the first fin 131 having the first dimension L1 and the fourth portion 36 of the second fin 132 is, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 0.3 mm or less. The convex space S formed by the portions of the first portion 33 and the second portion 34 of the first fin 131 having the second dimension L2 and the fourth portion 36 of the second fin 132 is, for example, 0.4 mm or more and 1.4 mm or less. The convex space S formed by the portions of the first portion 33 and the second portion 34 of the first fin 131 having the maximum value of the second dimension L2 (the upper and lower ends) and the fourth portion 36 of the second fin 132 is, for example, 1.1 mm or more and 1.4 mm or less.

[0090] like Figure 3 、 Figure 4 as well as Figure 9 As shown, the drainage rib 130 is provided on the main body 31. Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the drainage rib 130 protrudes in the first direction. Here, the drainage rib 130 protrudes forward. Specifically, the drainage rib 130 protrudes from one surface 30a toward the other surface 30b of the adjacent fin 30. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the drainage rib 130 protrudes in the first direction to the second portion 34. In other words, the height of the drainage rib 130 in the first direction is the same as the height of the second portion 34. In other words, the position of the drainage rib 130 in the first direction is the same as the position of the second portion 34 in the first direction.

[0091] Specifically, if Figure 3 and Figure 10 As shown, when viewed from one surface 30a (front surface), the drainage rib 130 is in a mountain shape. Figure 4 and Figure 10 As shown in FIG. 1 , the drain rib 130 has a groove shape when viewed from the other surface 30b (rear surface). The drain rib 130 of this embodiment has a V shape when viewed from the bottom.

[0092] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the drainage ribs 130 extend in the second direction. In this embodiment, the drainage ribs 130 extend in the up-down direction, here, in the direction of gravity.

[0093] Specifically, the drainage rib 130 extends in the second direction from the first collar portion 32 to the lower collar portion 32. Here, in the first and second collar portions 32 adjacent to each other in the vertical direction, the drainage rib 130 extends from the lower end of the second portion of the upper first collar portion 32 to the upper end of the second portion 34 of the lower second collar portion.

[0094] The drainage rib 130 is connected to the portion of the second portion 34 having the second dimension L2. Specifically, the drainage rib 130 is connected to the triangular portion 34d of the second portion 34. More specifically, the drainage rib 130 is connected to the sharp portion of the triangular portion 34d of the second portion 34. The drainage rib 130 extends from the triangular space of the convex space S.

[0095] (2-3) Action

[0096] exist Figure 1 During cooling or heating operations of the air conditioning unit 200 shown, refrigerant is sent to the heat transfer tubes 20 of the heat exchanger 10, serving as the indoor heat exchanger 231, in the refrigerant circuit 210. The refrigerant flowing through the through-holes of the heat transfer tubes 20 then exchanges heat with the indoor air flowing outside the heat transfer tubes 20. During this process, condensed water (hereinafter referred to as water) may form on the fins 30. This water tends to accumulate in the convex space S formed by the first and second portions 33, 34 of the first fin 131 and the fourth portion 36, which serves as the distal end of the collar portion 32 of the second fin 132.

[0097] In contrast, the second portion 34 of the fin 30 of this embodiment, when viewed from the first direction, has a portion where the distance between the inner circumferential surface 34a and the outer circumferential surface 34b is a first dimension L1, and a portion where the distance between the inner circumferential surface 34a and the outer circumferential surface 34b is a second dimension L2 that is larger than the first dimension L1. This structure allows water accumulated in the space between the portion of the first fin 131 having the first dimension L1 and the fourth portion 36 of the second fin 132 to be guided to the space between the portion having the second dimension L2 and the fourth portion 36 of the second fin 132.

[0098] Furthermore, the fin 30 of this embodiment has a drainage rib 130 extending from a convex space S formed by the first portion 33 and second portion 34 of the first fin 131 and the fourth portion 36, which serves as the distal end of the collar portion 32 of the second fin 132. Since the drainage rib 130 extends from the convex space S, water accumulated in the convex space S can be guided toward the drainage rib 130. The water is then drained through the drainage rib 130.

[0099] Specifically, if Figure 11 As shown, water accumulated in the annular space between the portion of the first fin 131 having the first dimension L1 and the fourth portion 36 of the second fin 132 in the convex space S is directed downwardly toward the triangular space between the portion having the second dimension L2 and the fourth portion 36 of the second fin 132. Because the drain rib 130 is connected to the portion having the second dimension L2, the water directed into the triangular space formed by the portion having the second dimension L2 is further directed toward the drain rib 130. Consequently, the water flows downwardly toward the collar portion 32 along the grooves formed on the other surface 30b of the drain rib 130. This causes the condensed water adhering to the fin 30 to flow downward.

[0100] (3) Characteristics

[0101] (3-1)

[0102] The inventors of the present invention have discovered a problem unique to the heat exchanger 10, which includes a collar portion 32 having a first portion 33, a second portion 34, and a third portion 35, and the second portion 34 of the first fin 131 contacts the distal end of the collar portion 32 of the adjacent second fin 132. Specifically, Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the inventors of the present invention discovered that in conventional fins 330 that do not have drainage ribs 130, water easily accumulates in the convex space S formed by the first and second portions 33, 34 of the first fin 131 and the distal end of the collar portion 32 of the second fin 132. To address this issue, they conducted extensive research and ultimately conceived the heat exchanger 10 of the present embodiment.

[0103] The heat exchanger 10 of this embodiment includes a heat transfer tube 20 and a plurality of fins 30. The heat transfer tube 20 extends in a first direction. The plurality of fins 30 are stacked in the first direction. The plurality of fins 30 include a main body 31 and a collar 32. The main body 31 extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The collar 32 is for the heat transfer tube 20 to pass through. The collar 32 includes a first portion 33, a second portion 34, and a third portion 35. The first portion 33 extends from the main body 31 in the first direction. The second portion 34 extends from the first portion 33 toward the heat transfer tube 20. The third portion 35 extends from the second portion 34 along the heat transfer tube 20 in the first direction. The second portion 34 of the first fin 131 contacts the distal end of the collar 32 of the adjacent second fin 132. Drainage ribs 130 are provided on the fins 30. The drainage rib 130 extends from a convex space S formed by the first portion 33 and the second portion 34 of the first fin 131 and the distal end of the collar portion 32 of the second fin 132 .

[0104] According to the heat exchanger 10 of this embodiment, the drainage ribs 130 extend from the convex space S, and thus water accumulated in the convex space S can be guided to the drainage ribs 130. Therefore, drainage of the convex space S, where water easily accumulates, can be promoted.

[0105] This prevents water from accumulating on the fins 30, improving drainage performance and reducing the risk of the heat exchanger 10 being continuously wet. This also prevents corrosion of the heat transfer tubes 20 and fins 30. Furthermore, it prevents mold and mildew on the heat exchanger 10, reducing odor issues.

[0106] (3-2)

[0107] In the heat exchanger 10 of this embodiment, the collar portion 32 further includes a fourth portion 36. The fourth portion 36 extends toward the outer periphery from the third portion 35. The second portion 34 of the first fin 131 contacts the fourth portion 36 of the adjacent second fin 132.

[0108] Here, the fourth portion 36 allows the plurality of fins 30 , 131 , and 132 to be easily stacked in the first direction.

[0109] Furthermore, water easily accumulates in the convex space S formed by the fourth portion 36 of the second fin 132 and the first and second portions 33 and 34 of the first fin 131 . Therefore, the second portion 34 of this embodiment has a significant effect.

[0110] (3-3)

[0111] In the heat exchanger 10 of this embodiment, the drain rib 130 is provided on the main body portion 31. The drain rib 130 protrudes in the first direction to the second portion 34. Here, water in the convex space S can be easily guided to the drain rib.

[0112] (3-4)

[0113] In the heat exchanger 10 of the present embodiment, the fin 30 includes a plurality of collar portions 32. The drainage rib 130 extends from the first collar portion 32 to the lower collar portion 32 in the second direction.

[0114] Here, water in the convex space S of the upper collar portion 32 can be guided to the convex space S of the lower collar portion 32 by the drainage ribs 130 .

[0115] (3-5)

[0116] In the heat exchanger 10 of the present embodiment, the convex space S has a toroidal shape when viewed from the first direction.

[0117] Here, the annular space allows water accumulated in the entire circumference of the space to be guided toward the drainage rib 130 .

[0118] (3-6)

[0119] In the heat exchanger 10 of this embodiment, when viewed from the first direction, the convex space S further includes a triangular space. The triangular space is connected to the annular space. The drainage rib 130 extends from the triangular space.

[0120] Here, water accumulated in the convex space S can be moved to the triangular space and guided from the triangular space to the drainage rib 130 .

[0121] (3-7)

[0122] In the heat exchanger 10 of this embodiment, this heat exchanger 10 is included in the indoor unit 230 of the air-conditioning apparatus 200. Thus, the heat exchanger 10 of this embodiment is suitable for use in the indoor heat exchanger 231 arranged indoors.

[0123] (4) Modification

[0124] (4-1) Modification 1

[0125] In the above-described embodiment, the drainage rib 130 has a V-shape when viewed from below, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The drainage rib 130 of this modification has a U-shape when viewed from below.

[0126] (4-2) Modification 2

[0127] In the above-described embodiment, the triangular portion 34d has a V-shape when viewed from the first direction, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The triangular portion 34d of this modification has a U-shape.

[0128] (4-3) Modification 3

[0129] In the above embodiment, the portion having the second size L2 ( Figures 3 to 6 The triangle portion 34d is arranged at both ends in the second direction, but is not limited thereto. Figure 14 As shown, the portion having the second size L2 is only arranged at the lower end portion. In other words, the triangular portion 34d is not arranged at the upper end portion, but only at the lower end portion.

[0130] (4-4) Modification 4

[0131] In the above embodiment, when viewed from the first direction, the triangular space of the convex space S is provided at both ends in the second direction, but this is not limited to this. In this variation, the triangular space of the convex space S is provided only at the lower end. In other words, a circular space is provided at the upper end of the convex space S.

[0132] (4-5) Modification 5

[0133] In the above embodiment, the portion having the second size L2 ( Figures 3 to 6 The triangle portion 34d is arranged at both ends in the second direction, but is not limited thereto. Figure 15 In other words, when viewed from the first direction, the second portion 34 is in the shape of a circular ring.

[0134] (4-6) Modification 6

[0135] In the above embodiment, the triangular shaped space of the convex space S is provided at both ends in the second direction when viewed from the first direction, but this is not limiting. In this variation, the triangular shaped space of the convex space S is omitted. In other words, the convex space S is a ring-shaped space.

[0136] (4-7) Modification 7

[0137] In the above embodiment, the collar portion 32 includes the first portion 33 , the second portion 34 , the third portion 35 , and the fourth portion 36 , but the fourth portion 36 may be omitted.

[0138] (4-8) Modification 8

[0139] In the above embodiment, the fins 30 are provided with the cutouts 31a for promoting heat transfer. However, the shape, number, and arrangement of the cutouts 31a are not limited. The cutouts 31a may extend in a direction intersecting the second direction. Furthermore, the cutouts 31a may protrude rearward.

[0140] (4-9) Modification 9

[0141] In the above embodiment, the heat exchanger 10 is applied to the indoor heat exchanger 231 , but the present invention is not limited thereto. In this modification, the heat exchanger 10 is applied to the outdoor heat exchanger 223 .

[0142] (4) Modification 10

[0143] In the above embodiment, the heat exchanger 10 is applied to the air conditioner 200, but the present invention is not limited thereto and the heat exchanger 10 may also be applied to a refrigeration device such as a hot water supply device, a floor heating device, or a refrigeration device.

[0144] While the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it should be understood that various changes in form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as described in the claims.

[0145] Label Description

[0146] 10: Heat exchanger

[0147] 20: Heat transfer tube

[0148] 30, 131, 132: fins

[0149] 31: Main body

[0150] 32: Ring

[0151] 33: Part 1

[0152] 34: Part 2

[0153] 35: Part 3

[0154] 36: Part 4

[0155] 130: Drainage ribs

[0156] 200: Air conditioning unit

[0157] 230: Indoor unit

[0158] Prior art literature

[0159] Patent Literature

[0160] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-123458

Claims

1. A heat exchanger (10), comprising: a heat transfer tube (20) extending in a first direction; as well as a plurality of fins (30, 131, 132) stacked in the first direction, The plurality of fins include: a main body portion (31) extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction; and a collar portion (32) for the heat transfer tube to pass through, The collar portion has: a first portion (33) extending from the main body in the first direction; a second portion (34) extending from the first portion toward the heat transfer tube; and a third portion (35) extending from the second portion along the heat transfer tube in the first direction, The second portion of the first fin (131) contacts the end portion of the collar portion of the adjacent second fin (132), The fin is provided with a drainage rib (130), The drainage rib extends from a convex space (S) formed by the first and second portions of the first fin and a distal end of the collar portion of the second fin.

2. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, wherein: The collar portion further comprises a fourth portion (36) extending from the third portion toward the outer peripheral side. The second portion of the first fin contacts the fourth portion of the adjacent second fin.

3. The heat exchanger according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The drainage rib is provided on the main body. The drainage rib protrudes in the first direction to the second portion.

4. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The fin includes a plurality of collar portions, The drainage rib extends from the first collar portion to the lower collar portion in the second direction.

5. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: When viewed from the first direction, the convex space has a ring-shaped space.

6. The heat exchanger according to claim 5, wherein: When viewed from the first direction, the convex space further includes a triangular space connected to the annular space. The drainage rib extends from the triangular space.

7. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The heat exchanger is included in an indoor unit (230) of an air conditioning device (200).

Citation Information

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