Vehicle heat exchanger

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a vehicle heat exchanger. The heat exchanger includes a housing. The housing defines a refrigerant inlet, a refrigerant outlet opposite the refrigerant inlet, at least one coolant inlet, and at least one coolant outlet. The spiral twenty-four-face structure is arranged in the shell. The spiral twenty-four-face structure defines a set of refrigerant channels, and the set of refrigerant channels guide refrigerant to pass through the spiral twenty-four-face structure. A first set of coolant channels that direct coolant through a first region of the helical twenty-four-surface structure; and a second set of coolant channels that direct coolant fluid through a second region of the helical twenty-four-sided structure. A valve is disposed within the refrigerant inlet. The valve is configured to direct refrigerant fluid to at least one of the first region and the second region of the helical twenty-four-sided structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a heat exchanger, and more particularly, to a heat exchanger for a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] A motor vehicle may include an energy storage system, such as a battery system. The battery system may generate excess heat when charging or discharging, which may cause the battery system temperature to rise to an elevated operating temperature. A compact and efficient cooling system is desired to cool the battery system and maintain a desired operating temperature. Summary of the invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a heat exchanger is provided, and the heat exchanger includes: a shell, the shell defines a refrigerant inlet, a refrigerant outlet opposite to the refrigerant inlet, at least one coolant inlet and at least one coolant outlet, and a gyroid structure disposed in the shell, the gyroid structure defines a group of refrigerant channels for guiding a refrigerant fluid through the gyroid structure and at least one group of coolant channels for guiding a coolant fluid through the gyroid structure. The heat exchanger also includes: a first conical recess, the first conical recess is defined in the gyroid structure and is close to the refrigerant inlet, the first conical recess defines a refrigerant introduction channel in fluid communication with the group of refrigerant channels; and a second conical recess, the second conical recess is defined in the gyroid structure and is close to the refrigerant outlet, the second conical recess defines a refrigerant removal channel in fluid communication with the group of refrigerant channels.

[0004] Embodiments of the first aspect of the present disclosure may include any one or a combination of the following features:

[0005] - the spiral icosahedral structure defines at least one coolant inlet receiving cavity proximate to the at least one coolant inlet and at least one coolant outlet receiving cavity proximate to the at least one coolant outlet;

[0006] - said set of refrigerant channels directs a refrigerant fluid in a counter-current flow to the flow of said coolant fluid in said at least one set of coolant channels;

[0007] - the at least one group of coolant channels comprises a first group of coolant channels flowing through a first region of the spiral icosahedron structure and a second group of coolant channels flowing through a second region of the spiral icosahedron structure, the second group of coolant channels directing a flow of a coolant fluid in a direction parallel to a flow of the coolant fluid in the first group of coolant channels;

[0008] - the refrigerant fluid flows through the first region and the second region of the helical icosahedral structure;

[0009] - the refrigerant inlet is defined on a front panel of the housing, and the refrigerant outlet is defined on a rear portion of the housing, and the at least one coolant inlet and the at least one coolant outlet are defined on side panels of the housing;

[0010] - the at least one coolant inlet includes a first coolant inlet defined on a first side panel of the housing and a second coolant inlet defined on a second side panel of the housing, and the at least one coolant outlet includes a first coolant outlet defined on the first side panel of the housing and a second coolant outlet defined on the second side panel of the housing; and

[0011] - said first conical recess extends towards said second conical recess.

[0012] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a heat exchanger is provided, and the heat exchanger includes a shell, the shell defining a refrigerant inlet, a refrigerant outlet opposite to the refrigerant inlet, at least one coolant inlet and at least one coolant outlet. The heat exchanger also includes a spiral 24-hedron structure, which is arranged in the shell, and the spiral 24-hedron structure defines: a group of refrigerant channels, the group of refrigerant channels guides the refrigerant fluid through the spiral 24-hedron structure; a first group of coolant channels, the first group of coolant channels guides the coolant fluid through the first area of ​​the spiral 24-hedron structure; and a second group of coolant channels, the second group of coolant channels guides the coolant fluid through the second area of ​​the spiral 24-hedron structure. The heat exchanger also includes a valve arranged in the refrigerant inlet, the valve being configured to guide the refrigerant fluid to at least one of the first area and the second area of ​​the spiral 24-hedron structure.

[0013] Embodiments of the second aspect of the present disclosure may include any one or a combination of the following features:

[0014] - a first conical recess, the first conical recess being defined in the spiral icosahedron structure and being adjacent to the refrigerant inlet, the first conical recess defining a refrigerant introduction passage in fluid communication with the set of refrigerant passages; and a second conical recess, the second conical recess being defined in the spiral icosahedron structure and being adjacent to the refrigerant outlet, the second conical recess defining a refrigerant removal passage in fluid communication with the set of refrigerant passages;

[0015] - the at least one coolant inlet includes a first coolant inlet defined on a first side panel of the housing and a second coolant inlet defined on a second side panel of the housing, and the at least one coolant outlet includes a first coolant outlet defined on the first side panel of the housing and a second coolant outlet defined on the second side panel of the housing;

[0016] - said set of refrigerant channels directs a refrigerant fluid in a countercurrent flow to a flow of said coolant fluid in said first set of coolant channels and in said second set of coolant channels;

[0017] - the first region of the spiral icosahedron structure defines a first coolant inlet receiving cavity near the first coolant inlet and a first coolant outlet receiving cavity near the first coolant outlet, and the second region of the spiral icosahedron structure defines a second coolant inlet receiving cavity near the second coolant inlet and a second coolant outlet receiving cavity near the second coolant outlet; and

[0018] - a first coolant circuit in fluid communication with the first set of coolant channels and a second coolant circuit in fluid communication with the second set of coolant channels, the first coolant circuit directing coolant to a battery system of the vehicle and the second coolant circuit directing coolant to a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system.

[0019] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a heat exchanger is provided, and the heat exchanger includes: a shell, the shell defines a refrigerant inlet, a refrigerant outlet opposite to the refrigerant inlet, at least one coolant inlet and at least one coolant outlet, and a spiral 24-hedron structure disposed in the shell and having a first region and a second region, the spiral 24-hedron structure defining a group of refrigerant channels for guiding a refrigerant fluid through the spiral 24-hedron structure and at least one group of coolant channels for guiding a coolant fluid through at least one of the first region and the second region. The heat exchanger also includes: a valve disposed in the refrigerant inlet, the valve being configured to guide the refrigerant fluid to at least one of the first region and the second region of the spiral 24-hedron structure; a first coolant circuit in fluid communication with the first region of the spiral 24-hedron structure, the first coolant circuit guiding the coolant to a battery system of a vehicle; and a second coolant circuit in fluid communication with the second region of the spiral 24-hedron structure, the second coolant circuit guiding the coolant to a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. The heat exchanger also includes a controller in communication with the valve, the controller configured to actuate the valve to a first position in response to a detected first condition and to actuate the valve to a second position in response to a detected second condition, the first position directing a greater amount of refrigerant fluid through the first region and the second position directing a greater amount of refrigerant fluid through the second region.

[0020] Embodiments of the third aspect of the present disclosure may include any one or a combination of the following features:

[0021] - the controller determines the first condition when the coolant fluid in the first coolant circuit requires more cooling than the coolant fluid in the second coolant circuit, and the controller determines the second condition when the coolant fluid in the first coolant circuit requires less cooling than the coolant fluid in the second coolant circuit;

[0022] - a first conical recess, the first conical recess being defined in the spiral icosahedron structure and being adjacent to the refrigerant inlet, the first conical recess defining a refrigerant introduction passage in fluid communication with the set of refrigerant passages; and a second conical recess, the second conical recess being defined in the spiral icosahedron structure and being adjacent to the refrigerant outlet, the second conical recess defining a refrigerant removal passage in fluid communication with the set of refrigerant passages;

[0023] - the first region of the spiral icosahedron structure defines a first coolant inlet receiving cavity near the first coolant inlet and a first coolant outlet receiving cavity near the first coolant outlet, and the second region of the spiral icosahedron structure defines a second coolant inlet receiving cavity near the second coolant inlet and a second coolant outlet receiving cavity near the second coolant outlet;

[0024] - the set of refrigerant channels directs refrigerant fluid in a counter-current flow to the flow of the coolant fluid in the first set of coolant channels and the second set of coolant channels; and

[0025] -The first region of the spiral icosahedron structure defines a first coolant inlet receiving cavity near the first coolant inlet and a first coolant outlet receiving cavity near the first coolant outlet, and the second region of the spiral icosahedron structure defines a second coolant inlet receiving cavity near the second coolant inlet and a second coolant outlet receiving cavity near the second coolant outlet.

[0026] These and other features, advantages and objectives of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by referring to the following description, claims and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] In the attached picture:

[0028] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle having a heat exchanger according to one embodiment;

[0029] Figure 2 is a front perspective view of a heat exchanger according to one embodiment. According to one embodiment.

[0030] Figure 3 is a front perspective view of a heat exchanger having a helical icosahedral structure according to one embodiment;

[0031] Figure 4 is a top elevation cross-sectional view of a heat exchanger having a first conical recess and a second conical recess according to one embodiment;

[0032] Figure 5 is a top view of a heat exchanger having a first coolant path, a second coolant path, and a refrigerant path directed by a valve according to one embodiment;

[0033] Figure 6 is a top view of a heat exchanger having a first coolant path, a second coolant path, and a refrigerant path directed by a valve to a first region of the heat exchanger according to one embodiment; and

[0034] Figure 7 is a partially schematic diagram of a flow diagram in which a heat exchanger is in fluid communication with a first coolant circuit, a second coolant circuit, and a refrigerant circuit according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the various drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. In the drawings, the depicted structural elements are not drawn to scale, and certain parts are enlarged relative to other parts for the purpose of emphasis and understanding.

[0036] As required, detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed herein; however, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the present disclosure, which may be implemented in various alternative forms. The drawings are not necessarily designed in detail; some schematic diagrams may be enlarged or minimized to show functional overviews. Therefore, the specific structural details and functional details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as limiting, but only as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to adopt the present disclosure in different ways.

[0037] For the purpose of this description, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal" and their derivatives shall be used in conjunction with Figure 1 The present invention relates to the concept of orientation in the present invention. However, it should be understood that the concept can present various alternative orientations unless expressly specified to the contrary. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes shown in the drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Therefore, unless the claims expressly state otherwise, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limiting.

[0038] The presently illustrated embodiments reside primarily in a combination of method steps and apparatus components associated with a heat exchanger. Accordingly, apparatus components and method steps have been indicated where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, and only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure are shown so as not to obscure the present disclosure with details that are readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. In addition, like reference numerals in the specification and drawings represent like elements.

[0039] As used herein, the term "and / or" when used with a list of two or more items means that any one of the listed items may be employed alone, or any combination of two or more of the listed items may be employed. For example, if a composition is described as containing components A, B, and / or C, the composition may contain: A alone; B alone; C alone; a combination of A and B; a combination of A and C; a combination of B and C; or a combination of A, B, and C.

[0040] In this document, relational terms (such as first and second, top and bottom, etc.) are used only to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action, and do not necessarily require or imply any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of elements includes not only those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by "comprises ..." does not, in the absence of more constraints, preclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes the element.

[0041] As used herein, the term "about" means that the amount, size, formula, parameter and other quantity and characteristics are not exact, nor need to be exact, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller as needed to reflect tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement errors, etc. and other factors known to those skilled in the art. When the term "about" is used to describe the endpoints of a value or range, the disclosure should be understood to include the specific value or endpoint mentioned. Whether or not the endpoints of a numerical value or range in this specification are described as "about", the endpoints of the numerical value or range are intended to include two embodiments: one modified by "about" and one not modified by "about". It should also be understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant in relation to the other endpoint and independently of the other endpoint.

[0042] As used herein, the terms "substantially," "substantially," and variations thereof are intended to indicate that the feature being described is equal to or approximately equal to a value or description. For example, a "substantially planar" surface is intended to indicate a planar or approximately planar surface. Additionally, "substantially" is intended to mean that two values ​​are equal or approximately equal. In some embodiments, "substantially" may indicate that values ​​are within about 10% of each other, such as within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other.

[0043] Unless expressly indicated to the contrary, as used herein, the terms "the," "a," or "an" mean "at least one" and should not be limited to "only one." Thus, for example, reference to "a component" includes embodiments having two or more such components unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0044] refer to Figure 1, reference numeral 12 generally denotes a vehicle including a body 14 and a drive unit 16. In aspects where the vehicle 12 is configured as a battery electric vehicle (BEV) or a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), the drive unit 16 of the vehicle 12 may include a battery system 18. The battery system 18 is in electrical communication with the drive unit 16 of the vehicle 12, such as one or more electric motors mechanically coupled to wheels of the vehicle 12. The drive unit 16 of the vehicle 12 may additionally or alternatively include an internal combustion engine (ICE) or a fuel cell to provide operating power for the vehicle 12.

[0045] When the battery system 18 is providing power to the drive unit 16, it may be desirable to deliver coolant to the battery system 18 using the cooling system 20 to maintain the operating temperature of the battery system 18. Additionally, it may be desirable to cool additional aspects of the vehicle 12, such as a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system 22, while still cooling the battery system 18. Specifically, the cooling system 20 may include one or more heat exchangers 10 to cool the battery system 18 and additional systems of the vehicle 12 by efficiently transferring heat between a coolant fluid and a refrigerant fluid in a compact structure.

[0046] refer to Figures 1 to 7 , the vehicle 12 includes a heat exchanger 10. The heat exchanger 10 includes a housing 30. The housing defines a refrigerant inlet 32, a refrigerant outlet 34 opposite the refrigerant inlet 32, a first coolant inlet 36, a second coolant inlet 38, a first coolant outlet 40, and a second coolant outlet 42. A spiral 24-hedron structure 44 is disposed within the housing 30. The spiral 24-hedron structure 44 defines a set of refrigerant channels 46 that guide a refrigerant fluid through the spiral 24-hedron structure 44. The spiral 24-hedron structure 44 also defines a first set of coolant channels 48 that guide a coolant fluid through a first region 50 of the spiral 24-hedron structure 44 and a second set of coolant channels 52 that guide a coolant fluid through a second region 54 of the spiral 24-hedron structure 44. A valve 56 is positioned in the refrigerant inlet 32. The valve 56 is configured to guide the refrigerant fluid to at least one of the first region 50 and the second region 54 of the spiral 24-hedron structure 44.

[0047] refer to Figures 2 to 6 , the heat exchanger 10 includes a housing 30. The housing 30 includes a front panel 60, a rear panel 62 opposite to the front panel 60, a bottom panel 64 and a top panel 66 extending between the front panel 60 and the rear panel 62, and a first side panel 68 and a second side panel 70 opposite to the first side panel 68. According to various aspects, the housing 30 can define one of various shapes, such as a quadrilateral shape, a circular shape, and / or one of other various shapes. According to various aspects, the housing 30 is configured to enclose various components of the heat exchanger 10 as provided herein.

[0048] refer to Figures 2 to 7 , the housing 30 may be manufactured in an additive manufacturing process that manufactures additional components of the heat exchanger 10. In other embodiments, the housing 30 may be manufactured in a separate manufacturing process, wherein additional components of the heat exchanger 10 are attached to the housing 30.

[0049] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the housing 30 defines at least one coolant path that is thermally connected to at least one refrigerant path 190. In some examples, the housing 30 has a structure that defines a first coolant path 170, a second coolant path 180, and a refrigerant path 190. The first coolant path 170 and the second coolant path 180 may be thermally connected to the refrigerant path 190 so that heat transfer occurs, thereby heating the fluid in the refrigerant path 190 and cooling the fluid in the first coolant path 170 and the second coolant path 180.

[0050] Reference now Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the shell 30 may enclose one or more spiral 24-hedron structures 44. In some examples, the shell 30 may enclose the spiral 24-hedron structure 44 in the internal cavity 80 of the shell 30. As used herein, the spiral 24-hedron structure is a three-dimensional lattice that forms at least two interpenetrating mazes. The body of the spiral 24-hedron structure defined as a channel that is not bounded by the heat exchanger shell 30 is a minimum surface with no intersection and infinite triple period. The body of the spiral 24-hedron structure has a structure that can be approximated by the equation sin([x]cos[y])+(sin[y]cos[z])+(sin[z]cos[x])=0, where x, y, and z are the coordinates of a point on a 3-dimensional graph with an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis. The spiral 24-hedron has a large surface area to volume ratio, and when the spiral 24-hedron structure is incorporated into the heat exchanger 10, the spiral 24-hedron structure 44 allows a large amount of thermal contact between the fluids contained in the passage. Additionally, it is generally contemplated that in aspects where the housing 30 encloses a plurality of helical icosahedral structures, one or more baffles, channel dividers, and / or various other structures may be disposed within the housing 30 to selectively direct fluid through the helical icosahedral structures 44 .

[0051] According to various aspects, the helical tetrahedral structure 44 is as Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, one or more channels can be defined via an interpenetrating maze, which in turn defines at least two fluid channels. For example, the spiral 24-hedron structure 44 can define a first coolant channel 48, a second coolant channel 52 that flows parallel to the first coolant channel 48, and a refrigerant channel 46 that flows in a reverse flow to the first coolant channel 48 and / or the second coolant channel 52. In such an example, the spiral 24-hedron structure 44 can define the first coolant channel 48 on the first region 50 of the spiral 24-hedron structure 44 and define the second coolant channel 52 on the second region 54 of the spiral 24-hedron structure 44, so that the first coolant channel 48 and the second coolant channel 52 do not intersect. Then, the refrigerant channel 46 can flow in the reverse direction along the first region 50 and the second region 54.

[0052] Reference now Figures 2 to 7 , the heat exchanger 10 includes a first coolant inlet 36 and a second coolant inlet 38 extending away from the housing 30. In some examples, the first coolant inlet 36 is coupled to the housing 30 or is integrally formed with the housing 30. For example, the first coolant inlet 36 can be integrally formed with the housing 30 and extend away from the first side panel 68, wherein the first coolant inlet 36 is proximate to the rear panel 62 of the housing 30. In other aspects, the second coolant inlet 38 is coupled to the housing 30 or is integrally formed with the housing 30. For example, the second coolant inlet 38 can be integrally formed with the housing 30 and extend away from the second side panel 70, wherein the second coolant inlet 38 is proximate to the rear panel 62 of the housing 30. In addition, it is generally contemplated that the first coolant inlet 36 can be coupled to the same panel as the second coolant inlet 38 or a different panel in the housing 30. According to various aspects, the first coolant inlet 36 is intended to direct the coolant fluid into the first region 50 of the spiral icosahedron structure 44, and the second coolant inlet 38 is intended to direct the coolant fluid into the second region 54 of the spiral icosahedron structure 44. Additionally, it is generally contemplated that the first coolant inlet 36 and the second coolant inlet 38 may define a variety of shapes and / or sizes and be oriented perpendicularly and / or obliquely relative to the housing 30 such that the rate of coolant fluid flow may be one of a variety of flow rates.

[0053] Reference now Figures 2 to 6, the first coolant inlet 36 can direct the fluid into the first coolant inlet receiving cavity 90. The first coolant inlet receiving cavity 90 can be defined as the space between the first coolant inlet 36, the housing 30, and the first region 50 of the spiral icosahedral structure 44. The first coolant inlet receiving cavity 90 can define one of various shapes, such as a quadrilateral shape, a triangular shape, a circular shape, and / or one of other various shapes. According to various aspects, the first coolant inlet receiving cavity 90 defines a fluid receiving cavity that allows the coolant fluid to flow evenly into the first group of coolant channels 48.

[0054] Reference again Figures 2 to 6 , the second coolant inlet 38 can guide the fluid into the second coolant inlet receiving cavity 100. The second coolant inlet receiving cavity 100 can be defined as the space between the second coolant inlet 38, the housing 30, and the second region 54 of the spiral icosahedral structure 44. The second coolant inlet receiving cavity 100 can define one of various shapes, such as a quadrilateral shape, a triangular shape, a circular shape, and / or one of other various shapes. According to various aspects, the second coolant receiving cavity 100 defines a fluid receiving cavity that allows the coolant fluid to flow uniformly into the second group of coolant channels 52.

[0055] Additionally, it is generally contemplated that the helical icosahedral structure 44 may define a coolant introduction channel that surrounds the outer perimeter of the first coolant inlet receiving cavity 90 and the second coolant inlet receiving cavity 100. The coolant introduction channel may have a shape, size, and / or cross-sectional width that allows fluid to flow continuously from the coolant inlets 36, 38 and into the helical icosahedral structure 44.

[0056] Reference now Figures 3 to 6 , the coolant fluid may flow from the first coolant inlet 36 into the first coolant inlet receiving cavity 90 and then into the first group of coolant channels 48. The first group of coolant channels 48 is defined in the first region 50 of the spiral icosahedron structure 44. In some examples, the first group of coolant channels 48 extends from the first coolant inlet 36 along the first region 50 of the spiral icosahedron structure 44 to the first coolant outlet 40. According to various aspects, the first group of coolant channels 48 may direct the coolant fluid in a direction parallel to, oblique to, or perpendicular to the coolant fluid flow in the second group of coolant channels 52 and / or the refrigerant fluid flow in the group of coolant channels 46.

[0057] According to various aspects, the coolant fluid flows through the first group of coolant channels 48 and flows to the first coolant outlet receiving cavity 110. The first coolant outlet receiving cavity 110 can be defined as the space between the first coolant outlet 40, the housing 30, and the first region 50 of the spiral icosahedral structure 44. The first coolant outlet receiving cavity 110 can define one of various shapes, such as a quadrilateral shape, a triangular shape, a circular shape, and / or one of various other shapes. According to various aspects, the first coolant outlet receiving cavity 110 defines a fluid receiving cavity that allows the coolant fluid to flow uniformly from the first group of coolant channels 48 into the first coolant outlet 40.

[0058] Reference again Figures 3 to 6 , the coolant fluid may flow from the second coolant inlet 38 into the second coolant inlet receiving cavity 100, and then into the second group of coolant channels 52. The second group of coolant channels 52 is defined in the second region 54 of the spiral icosahedron structure 44. In some examples, the second group of coolant channels 52 extends from the second coolant inlet 38 along the second region 54 of the spiral icosahedron structure 44 to the second coolant outlet 42. According to various aspects, the second group of coolant channels 52 may guide the coolant fluid in a direction parallel to, oblique to, or perpendicular to the coolant fluid flow in the first group of coolant channels 48 and / or the refrigerant fluid flow in the group of refrigerant channels 46.

[0059] According to various aspects, the coolant fluid flows through the second group of coolant channels 52 and flows to the second coolant outlet receiving cavity 120. The second coolant outlet receiving cavity 120 can be defined as the space between the second coolant outlet 42, the housing 30, and the second region 54 of the spiral icosahedral structure 44. The second coolant outlet receiving cavity 120 can define one of various shapes, such as a quadrilateral shape, a triangular shape, a circular shape, and / or one of various other shapes. According to various aspects, the second coolant outlet receiving cavity 120 defines a fluid receiving cavity that allows the coolant fluid to flow uniformly from the second group of coolant channels 52 into the second coolant outlet 42.

[0060] Additionally, it is generally contemplated that the helical tetrahedron structure 44 may define a coolant exhaust passage that surrounds the outer perimeter of the first coolant outlet receiving cavity 110 and the second coolant outlet receiving cavity 120. The coolant exhaust passage may have a shape, size, and / or cross-sectional width that allows fluid to flow continuously from the first set of coolant passages 48 and the second set of coolant passages 52 and into the coolant outlets 40, 42.

[0061] Reference now Figures 2 to 7, the heat exchanger 10 includes a refrigerant inlet 32 ​​extending away from the shell 30. In some examples, the refrigerant inlet 32 ​​is coupled to the shell 30 or is integrally formed with the shell 30. For example, the refrigerant inlet 32 ​​can be integrally formed with the front panel 60 of the shell 30 and extend away from the front panel 60. According to various aspects, the refrigerant inlet 32 ​​is intended to direct the refrigerant fluid into the helical tetrahedron structure 44. In addition, it is generally contemplated that the refrigerant inlet 32 ​​can define a variety of shapes and / or sizes and be oriented vertically and / or obliquely relative to the shell 30 so that the rate of the refrigerant flow can be one of a variety of flow rates.

[0062] According to various aspects, the valve 56 can be disposed in the refrigerant inlet 32. In some examples, the valve 56 can be movably coupled or fixedly coupled to the inner wall of the refrigerant inlet 32. In various embodiments, the valve 56 is configured to direct the refrigerant flow into the spiral 24-hedron structure 44, and / or adjust the flow rate of the refrigerant fluid into the spiral 24-hedron structure 44. In yet other aspects, the valve 56 may include one or more actuators that communicate with the controller 130, so that the controller 130 can output a signal to the valve 56 to adjust the position of the valve 56 and the subsequent refrigerant fluid flow. For example, after determining a first condition due to a greater cooling demand of the battery system 18, the controller 130 can direct a larger amount of refrigerant fluid to the first region 50 of the spiral 24-hedron structure 44, as provided herein. In addition or alternatively, it is generally conceivable that the valve 56 can be one of various valves, such as a butterfly valve. It is also generally conceivable that the valve 56 can include a plate and / or a disk having a shape and / or size consistent with the shape and / or size of the refrigerant inlet 32.

[0063] refer to Figure 4, the heat exchanger 10 includes a refrigerant introduction channel 140 in fluid communication with the refrigerant inlet 32. In some examples, the spiral icosahedron structure 44 defines the refrigerant introduction channel 140. In such examples, the spiral icosahedron structure 44 can define one of various shapes, which in turn define the refrigerant introduction channel 140. For example, the spiral icosahedron structure 44 can define a first conical recess 142, wherein the refrigerant introduction channel 140 is defined along the outer periphery of the first conical recess 142. In such examples, the first conical recess 142 can extend from the refrigerant inlet 32 ​​and toward the refrigerant outlet 34. In addition, the first conical recess 142 can define one of various shapes and / or sizes, wherein the shape and / or size of the first conical recess 142 at least partially determines the shape and / or size of the refrigerant introduction channel 140. According to various aspects, the refrigerant introduction channel 140 has a cross-section that is smaller than the cross-section of the refrigerant inlet 32. In other aspects, the refrigerant introduction channel 140 can have a cross-section that is larger than the group of refrigerant channels 46. The refrigerant introduction channel 140 is in fluid communication with the refrigerant inlet 32 ​​and the group of refrigerant channels 46 such that the refrigerant fluid can flow from the refrigerant inlet 32 ​​to the group of refrigerant channels 46 in a uniform flow. Additionally, it is generally contemplated that the refrigerant introduction channel 140 can have a shape defined by an interface of the refrigerant introduction channel 140 with the group of refrigerant channels 46, wherein the interface can at least partially determine a flow rate of the refrigerant fluid into the group of refrigerant channels 46. It is also contemplated that the refrigerant introduction channel 140 can include one or more fluid barriers in line with the valve 56 such that the valve 56 can direct the refrigerant fluid to various sections of the refrigerant introduction channel 140.

[0064] Reference now Figures 4 to 6 , the refrigerant introduction channel 140 guides the refrigerant fluid to the group of refrigerant channels 46. The group of refrigerant channels 46 is defined in the spiral icosahedral structure 44. In some examples, the group of refrigerant channels 46 includes a first group of refrigerant channels 150 extending through the first region 50 and a second group of refrigerant channels 152 extending through the second region 54. In some examples, the group of refrigerant channels 46 can be directly fluidly connected to the refrigerant inlet 32, or the group of refrigerant channels 46 can be fluidly connected to the refrigerant inlet 32 ​​through the refrigerant introduction channel 140. In some examples, the refrigerant introduction channel 140 guides the refrigerant fluid in the reverse flow direction of the coolant fluid in the first group of coolant channels 48 and / or the second group of coolant channels 52. When the refrigerant fluid flows in the reverse flow direction, heat transfer occurs between the refrigerant fluid and the coolant fluid via the spiral icosahedral structure 44.

[0065] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the group of refrigerant channels 46 is in thermal communication with the first group of coolant channels 48 and the second group of coolant channels 52. The interpenetrating maze network of spiral icosahedral structures 44 defining the group of refrigerant channels 46, the first group of coolant channels 48, and the second group of coolant channels 52 has a large surface area that promotes heat transfer from the cooling fluid contained within the coolant channels 48, 52 to the refrigerant fluid within the group of refrigerant channels 46, thereby cooling the coolant.

[0066] refer to Figure 4 , the heat exchanger 10 includes a refrigerant discharge passage 160 in fluid communication with the set of refrigerant passages 46. In some examples, the spiral icosahedron structure 44 defines the refrigerant discharge passage 160. In such examples, the spiral icosahedron structure 44 can define one of a variety of shapes, which in turn define the refrigerant discharge passage 160. For example, the spiral icosahedron structure 44 can define a second conical recess 162, wherein the refrigerant discharge passage 160 is defined along the outer periphery of the second conical recess 162. In such examples, the second conical recess 162 can extend from the refrigerant inlet 32 ​​and toward the refrigerant inlet 32. The second conical recess 162 can have a shape and / or size that is consistent with or different from the shape and / or size of the first conical recess 142. In addition, the second conical recess 162 can define one of a variety of shapes and / or sizes, wherein the shape and / or size of the second conical recess 162 at least partially determines the shape and / or size of the refrigerant discharge passage 160. According to various aspects, the refrigerant discharge passage 160 has a cross-section that is smaller than the cross-section of the refrigerant outlet 34. In other aspects, the refrigerant discharge passage 160 can have a cross-section that is larger than the group of refrigerant passages 46. The refrigerant discharge passage 160 is in fluid communication with the refrigerant outlet 34 and the group of refrigerant passages 46 so that the refrigerant fluid can flow from the group of refrigerant passages 46 to the refrigerant outlet 34 in a uniform flow. In addition, it is generally contemplated that the refrigerant discharge passage 160 can have a shape defined by an interface of the refrigerant discharge passage 160 with the group of refrigerant passages 46, wherein the interface can at least partially determine the flow rate of the refrigerant fluid out of the group of refrigerant passages 46 and into the refrigerant outlet 34.

[0067] Reference now Figures 2 to 7, the heat exchanger 10 includes a refrigerant outlet 34 extending away from the shell 30. In some examples, the refrigerant outlet 34 is coupled to the shell 30 or is integrally formed with the shell 30. For example, the refrigerant outlet 34 can be integrally formed with the rear panel 62 of the shell 30 and extend away from the rear panel 62. According to various aspects, the refrigerant outlet 34 is intended to direct the refrigerant fluid out of the heat exchanger 10 and into the refrigerant circuit 214. In addition, it is generally contemplated that the refrigerant outlet 34 can define a variety of shapes and / or sizes and be oriented vertically and / or obliquely relative to the shell 30 so that the rate of the refrigerant flow can be one of a variety of flow rates.

[0068] Reference now Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the first coolant path 170 of the heat exchanger 10 generally directs the coolant fluid through the heat exchanger 10. Specifically, the first coolant path 170 can direct the coolant fluid from the first coolant inlet 36 into the first set of coolant channels 48. The first coolant path 170 then directs the coolant fluid out of the first coolant outlet 40 and into the first coolant loop line 216 of the first coolant loop 210.

[0069] Reference again Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the second coolant path 180 of the heat exchanger 10 generally directs a coolant fluid through the heat exchanger 10. Specifically, the second coolant path 180 may direct the coolant fluid from the second coolant inlet 38 into the second set of coolant channels 52. The second coolant path 180 then directs the coolant fluid out of the second coolant outlet 42 and into the second coolant loop 212. According to various aspects, the flow direction of the coolant fluid in the second coolant path 180 may be different from or consistent with the flow direction of the coolant fluid in the first coolant path 170. For example, the coolant fluid in the second coolant path 180 may flow in the second region 54 of the spiral icosahedron structure 44 in a direction substantially parallel to the flow direction of the coolant fluid in the first coolant path 170 that may flow in the first region 50 of the spiral icosahedron structure 44.

[0070] Further references Figure 5 and Figure 6, the refrigerant path 190 of the heat exchanger 10 generally directs a refrigerant fluid through the heat exchanger 10. Specifically, the refrigerant path 190 may direct the refrigerant fluid from the refrigerant inlet 32 ​​through the refrigerant introduction channel 140 and into the set of refrigerant channels 46. The refrigerant path 190 then directs the refrigerant fluid into the refrigerant discharge channel 160 and out of the refrigerant outlet 34, where the refrigerant fluid is directed to the refrigerant circuit 214. According to various aspects, the flow direction of the refrigerant fluid in the refrigerant path 190 may be different from or consistent with the flow direction of the coolant fluid in the first coolant path 170 or the second coolant path 180. For example, the refrigerant fluid may flow in a counter-flow direction to the flow of the coolant fluid in the first coolant path 170 and the second coolant path 180. In addition, it is generally contemplated that the rate of refrigerant flow along the refrigerant path 190 in the first region 50 and / or the second region 54 of the helical icosahedral structure 44 may vary or remain consistent in the two regions 50, 54. For example, the valve 56 may be positioned such that the amount of refrigerant fluid flowing along the refrigerant path 190 through the first region 50 is greater than the amount of refrigerant fluid flowing along the refrigerant path 190 through the second region 54 .

[0071] Reference now Figure 7 , a flow chart 200 illustrating a vehicle cooling system 20 is shown. The flow chart 200 includes a first coolant loop 210, a second coolant loop 212, and a refrigerant loop 214. The first coolant loop 210 includes a first coolant loop line 216 that directs a coolant fluid to flow through the first coolant loop 210. The first coolant loop 210 extends from the first coolant outlet 40 and extends to a cooling plate 218 of the battery system 18, wherein the cooling plate 218 is configured to cool the battery pack 220. The first coolant loop line 216 then extends from the cooling plate 218 to a first coolant reservoir 222. The first coolant loop line 216 then extends to a first coolant pump 224 and then to the first coolant inlet 36. According to various aspects, the first coolant pump 224 is configured to generate a coolant flow that directs the coolant fluid through the first coolant loop 210.

[0072] The second coolant loop 212 includes a second coolant loop line 230 that directs coolant fluid through the second coolant loop 212. The second coolant loop line 230 extends from the second coolant outlet 42 to the HVAC system 22, which is in fluid communication with a cabin 232 of the vehicle 12. The second coolant loop line 230 then extends to a second coolant reservoir 234. The second coolant loop line 230 then extends to the second coolant reservoir 234, a second coolant pump 236, and into the second coolant inlet 38. According to various aspects, the second coolant pump 236 is configured to generate a coolant flow that directs coolant fluid through the second coolant loop 212.

[0073] The refrigerant circuit 214 includes a refrigerant circuit line 240 that directs the refrigerant fluid through the refrigerant circuit 212. The refrigerant circuit line 240 extends from the refrigerant outlet 34 to a compressor 242. The compressor 242 is configured to compress the refrigerant fluid into a relatively high pressure gas. During compression, the temperature of the refrigerant fluid increases. The compressor 242 is also configured to drive or circulate the refrigerant fluid through the refrigerant circuit 214. The refrigerant then leaves the compressor 242 as a relatively high pressure gas and enters the refrigerant circuit line 240, which leads to a condenser 244.

[0074] The refrigerant fluid in a relatively high pressure gaseous state then enters the condenser 244. The condenser 244 can be configured as a heat exchanger that can exchange heat with ambient air. The condenser 244 condenses the refrigerant into a liquid, thereby releasing heat. The refrigerant circuit line 240 then directs the refrigerant to the expansion valve 246. The expansion valve 246 reduces the pressure of the refrigerant fluid, thereby cooling the refrigerant fluid. The refrigerant circuit line 240 then directs the cooled refrigerant fluid to the refrigerant inlet 32, where the refrigerant fluid enters the heat exchanger 10 and the spiral tetrahedron structure 44, thereby cooling the coolant fluid in the first coolant circuit 210 and the second coolant circuit 212.

[0075] According to various aspects, the vehicle cooling system 20 includes a controller 130. The controller 130 has a processor and a memory storing instructions. The controller 130 can be set at various locations on the vehicle 12. The controller 130 can be a vehicle controller or an independent controller. The controller 130 can communicate with various aspects of the heat exchanger 10 and / or the vehicle cooling system 20. For example, the controller 130 can communicate with the valve 56, the first coolant pump 224, the second coolant pump 236, and / or various other components. The controller can also communicate with one or more sensors of the sensor system. For example, the controller 130 can communicate with a temperature sensor, a flow sensor, a proximity sensor, and / or various other sensors. In addition, it is generally conceivable that the vehicle 12 may include multiple controllers, wherein the functions of the controller 130 can be performed individually or jointly by multiple controllers.

[0076] The processor may execute instructions to cause the controller 130 to operate one or more devices. Specifically, the processor may execute instructions after determining a condition, which in turn causes the actuator of the valve 56 to move the valve 56 to a first position or a second position. For example, the controller 130 may determine, via information from the sensor system, that there is a greater need for cooling the battery system 18. Then, the controller 130 may determine a first condition and output a signal to the actuator to adjust the position of the valve 56 so that a greater amount of refrigerant fluid flows through the first region 50 of the spiral 24-hedron structure 44. The refrigerant fluid in the first region 50 flows in the opposite direction to the coolant fluid in the first coolant loop 210, which flows through the cooling plate 218 of the battery pack 220, so that the coolant fluid in the first coolant loop 210 is cooled. In addition, the controller 130 may determine, via information from the sensor system, that there is a greater need for cooling the HVAC system 22. Then, the controller 130 may determine a second condition and output a signal to the actuator to adjust the position of the valve 56 so that a greater amount of refrigerant fluid flows through the second region 54 of the spiral 24-hedron structure 44. The refrigerant fluid in the second zone 54 flows in the opposite direction to the coolant fluid in the second coolant loop 212, which flows through the HVAC system 22, so that the coolant fluid in the second coolant loop 212 is cooled. In addition, it is generally contemplated that the processor can execute instructions to actuate the first coolant pump 224 or the second coolant pump 236. For example, the processor can output a signal that causes the coolant pumps 224, 236 to operate at a first speed, a second speed, a third speed, or in a static condition.

[0077] Use of the currently disclosed device can provide a variety of advantages. For example, the heat exchanger 10 can provide efficient heat transfer between the coolant and the refrigerant in a compact structure. Specifically, due to the high surface area to volume ratio of the spiral 24-hedron structure 44 in the heat exchanger 10 relative to conventional heat exchangers, the use of the spiral 24-hedron structure 44 allows efficient heat transfer. In addition, the use of a first coolant loop 210 passing through the first region 50 and a second coolant loop 212 passing through the second region 54 (both of which can flow in the reverse flow direction with the refrigerant loop 214) provides a heat exchanger 10 that can cool multiple aspects of the vehicle 12 simultaneously. In addition, the use of a valve 56 in the refrigerant inlet 32 ​​that directs the refrigerant fluid to the first region 50 and / or the second region 54 provides a heat exchanger 10 that can selectively direct a larger amount of refrigerant fluid through the first region 50 and / or the second region 54 (depending on demand). For example, when the coolant fluid in the first coolant loop 210 requires greater cooling than the coolant fluid in the second coolant loop 212 , the valve 56 may direct a greater amount of refrigerant fluid through the first region 50 .

[0078] It will be understood that changes and modifications may be made to the foregoing constructions without departing from the concepts of the present disclosure, and it will be further understood that such concepts are intended to be encompassed by the appended claims unless the claims expressly state otherwise by their language.

[0079] According to the present invention, a heat exchanger is provided, which comprises: a shell, the shell defining a refrigerant inlet, a refrigerant outlet opposite to the refrigerant inlet, at least one coolant inlet and at least one coolant outlet; a spiral 24-hedron structure arranged in the shell, the spiral 24-hedron structure defining a group of refrigerant channels for guiding refrigerant fluid through the spiral 24-hedron structure and at least one group of coolant channels for guiding coolant fluid through the spiral 24-hedron structure; a first conical recess, the first conical recess being defined in the spiral 24-hedron structure and close to the refrigerant inlet, the first conical recess defining a refrigerant introduction channel fluidly connected to the group of refrigerant channels; and a second conical recess, the second conical recess being defined in the spiral 24-hedron structure and close to the refrigerant outlet, the second conical recess defining a refrigerant discharge channel fluidly connected to the group of refrigerant channels.

[0080] According to an embodiment, the spiral icosahedron structure defines at least one coolant inlet receiving cavity proximate to the at least one coolant inlet and at least one coolant outlet receiving cavity proximate to the at least one coolant outlet.

[0081] According to an embodiment, the set of refrigerant channels directs the refrigerant fluid in a counter-flow to the flow of the coolant fluid in the at least one set of coolant channels.

[0082] According to an embodiment, the at least one group of coolant channels includes a first group of coolant channels flowing through a first region of the spiral icosahedron structure and a second group of coolant channels flowing through a second region of the spiral icosahedron structure, wherein the second group of coolant channels guides the flow of the coolant fluid in a direction parallel to the flow of the coolant fluid in the first group of coolant channels.

[0083] According to an embodiment, the refrigerant fluid flows through the first region and the second region of the helical icosahedral structure.

[0084] According to an embodiment, the refrigerant inlet is defined on a front panel of the housing and the refrigerant outlet is defined on a rear portion of the housing, and wherein the at least one coolant inlet and the at least one coolant outlet are defined on side panels of the housing.

[0085] According to an embodiment, the at least one coolant inlet includes a first coolant inlet defined on a first side panel of the shell and a second coolant inlet defined on a second side panel of the shell, and wherein the at least one coolant outlet includes a first coolant outlet defined on the first side panel of the shell and a second coolant outlet defined on the second side panel of the shell.

[0086] According to an embodiment, the first conical recess extends towards the second conical recess.

[0087] According to the present invention, a heat exchanger is provided, which has: a shell, the shell defining a refrigerant inlet, a refrigerant outlet opposite to the refrigerant inlet, at least one coolant inlet and at least one coolant outlet; a spiral 24-hedron structure arranged in the shell, the spiral 24-hedron structure defining a group of refrigerant channels for guiding the refrigerant fluid through the spiral 24-hedron structure, a first group of coolant channels for guiding the coolant fluid through a first area of ​​the spiral 24-hedron structure, and a second group of coolant channels for guiding the coolant fluid through a second area of ​​the spiral 24-hedron structure; and a valve, which is arranged in the refrigerant inlet, the valve being configured to guide the refrigerant fluid to at least one of the first area and the second area of ​​the spiral 24-hedron structure.

[0088] According to an embodiment, the present invention is also characterized by: a first conical recess, which is defined in the spiral icosahedron structure and is close to the refrigerant inlet, and the first conical recess defines a refrigerant introduction channel that is fluidly connected to the group of refrigerant channels; and a second conical recess, which is defined in the spiral icosahedron structure and is close to the refrigerant outlet, and the second conical recess defines a refrigerant discharge channel that is fluidly connected to the group of refrigerant channels.

[0089] According to an embodiment, the at least one coolant inlet includes a first coolant inlet defined on a first side panel of the shell and a second coolant inlet defined on a second side panel of the shell, and wherein the at least one coolant outlet includes a first coolant outlet defined on the first side panel of the shell and a second coolant outlet defined on the second side panel of the shell.

[0090] According to an embodiment, the set of refrigerant channels directs the refrigerant fluid in a counter-flow to the flow of the coolant fluid in the first and second sets of coolant channels.

[0091] According to an embodiment, the first region of the spiral icosahedron structure defines a first coolant inlet receiving cavity near the first coolant inlet and a first coolant outlet receiving cavity near the first coolant outlet, and wherein the second region of the spiral icosahedron structure defines a second coolant inlet receiving cavity near the second coolant inlet and a second coolant outlet receiving cavity near the second coolant outlet.

[0092] According to an embodiment, the present invention is also characterized by: a first coolant circuit in fluid communication with the first group of coolant channels and a second coolant circuit in fluid communication with the second group of coolant channels, the first coolant circuit directing coolant to a battery system of the vehicle and the second coolant circuit directing coolant to a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system.

[0093] According to the present invention, a heat exchanger for a vehicle is provided, the heat exchanger comprising: a shell, the shell defining a refrigerant inlet, a refrigerant outlet opposite to the refrigerant inlet, at least one coolant inlet and at least one coolant outlet; a spiral 24-hedron structure, the spiral 24-hedron structure being arranged in the shell and having a first region and a second region, the spiral 24-hedron structure defining a group of refrigerant channels for guiding a refrigerant fluid through the spiral 24-hedron structure and at least one group of coolant channels for guiding a coolant fluid through at least one of the first region and the second region; a valve, the valve being arranged in the refrigerant inlet, the valve being configured to guide the refrigerant fluid to at least one of the first region and the second region of the spiral 24-hedron structure One; a first coolant circuit, the first coolant circuit is fluidly connected to the first region of the spiral icosahedron structure, the first coolant circuit directs coolant to the battery system of the vehicle; a second coolant circuit, the second coolant circuit is fluidly connected to the second region of the spiral icosahedron structure, the second coolant circuit directs coolant to a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system; and a controller communicating with the valve, the controller being configured to actuate the valve to a first position in response to a detected first condition and to actuate the valve to a second position in response to a detected second condition, wherein the first position directs a larger amount of refrigerant fluid through the first region, and wherein the second position directs a larger amount of refrigerant fluid through the second region.

[0094] According to an embodiment, the controller determines the first condition when the coolant fluid in the first coolant circuit requires more cooling than the coolant fluid in the second coolant circuit, and wherein the controller determines the second condition when the coolant fluid in the first coolant circuit requires less cooling than the coolant fluid in the second coolant circuit.

[0095] According to an embodiment, the present invention is also characterized by: a first conical recess, which is defined in the spiral icosahedron structure and is close to the refrigerant inlet, and the first conical recess defines a refrigerant introduction channel that is fluidly connected to the group of refrigerant channels; and a second conical recess, which is defined in the spiral icosahedron structure and is close to the refrigerant outlet, and the second conical recess defines a refrigerant discharge channel that is fluidly connected to the group of refrigerant channels.

[0096] According to an embodiment, the first region of the spiral icosahedron structure defines a first coolant inlet receiving cavity near the first coolant inlet and a first coolant outlet receiving cavity near the first coolant outlet, and wherein the second region of the spiral icosahedron structure defines a second coolant inlet receiving cavity near the second coolant inlet and a second coolant outlet receiving cavity near the second coolant outlet.

[0097] According to an embodiment, the set of refrigerant channels directs the refrigerant fluid in a counter-flow to the flow of the coolant fluid in the first and second sets of coolant channels.

[0098] According to an embodiment, the first region of the spiral icosahedron structure defines a first coolant inlet receiving cavity near the first coolant inlet and a first coolant outlet receiving cavity near the first coolant outlet, and wherein the second region of the spiral icosahedron structure defines a second coolant inlet receiving cavity near the second coolant inlet and a second coolant outlet receiving cavity near the second coolant outlet.

Claims

1. A heat exchanger comprising: a housing defining a refrigerant inlet, a refrigerant outlet opposite the refrigerant inlet, at least one coolant inlet, and at least one coolant outlet; a spiral icosahedron structure disposed within the housing, the spiral icosahedron structure defining: a set of refrigerant channels directing a refrigerant fluid through the spiral icosahedron structure; a first set of coolant channels directing a coolant fluid through a first region of the spiral icosahedron structure; and a second set of coolant channels directing a coolant fluid through a second region of the helical icosahedral structure; as well as A valve is disposed within the refrigerant inlet, the valve being configured to direct refrigerant fluid to at least one of the first region and the second region of the helical icosahedron structure.

2. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, further comprising: a first conical recess, the first conical recess being defined in the spiral icosahedron structure and adjacent to the refrigerant inlet, the first conical recess defining a refrigerant introduction passage in fluid communication with the set of refrigerant passages; as well as A second conical recess is defined in the spiral icosahedron structure and adjacent to the refrigerant outlet, the second conical recess defining a refrigerant removal passage in fluid communication with the set of refrigerant passages.

3. The heat exchanger of claim 2, wherein the first conical recess extends toward the second conical recess.

4. The heat exchanger of claim 1 , wherein the at least one coolant inlet includes a first coolant inlet defined on a first side panel of the housing and a second coolant inlet defined on a second side panel of the housing, and wherein the at least one coolant outlet includes a first coolant outlet defined on the first side panel of the housing and a second coolant outlet defined on the second side panel of the housing.

5. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein the set of refrigerant channels directs refrigerant fluid in a counter-current flow to the flow of the coolant fluid in the first set of coolant channels and the second set of coolant channels.

6. The heat exchanger of claim 1 , wherein the first region of the spiral icosahedron structure defines a first coolant inlet receiving cavity proximate to the first coolant inlet and a first coolant outlet receiving cavity proximate to the first coolant outlet, and wherein the second region of the spiral icosahedron structure defines a second coolant inlet receiving cavity proximate to the second coolant inlet and a second coolant outlet receiving cavity proximate to the second coolant outlet.

7. The heat exchanger of claim 1 further comprising a first coolant circuit in fluid communication with the first set of coolant channels and a second coolant circuit in fluid communication with the second set of coolant channels, the first coolant circuit directing coolant to a battery system of the vehicle and the second coolant circuit directing coolant to a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system.

8. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein the second set of coolant channels directs the flow of the coolant fluid in a direction parallel to the flow of the coolant fluid in the first set of coolant channels.

9. The heat exchanger of claim 8, wherein the refrigerant fluid flows through the first region and the second region of the helical tetrahedron structure.

10. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein the refrigerant inlet is defined on a front panel of the housing and the refrigerant outlet is defined on a rear portion of the housing, and wherein the at least one coolant inlet and the at least one coolant outlet are defined on side panels of the housing.

11. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising: a controller in communication with the valve, the controller being configured to actuate the valve to a first position in response to a detected first condition and to actuate the valve to a second position in response to a detected second condition, wherein the first position directs a greater amount of refrigerant fluid through the first region and wherein the second position directs a greater amount of refrigerant fluid through the second region.

12. The heat exchanger of claim 11, wherein the at least one coolant inlet includes a first coolant inlet defined on a first side panel of the shell and a second coolant inlet defined on a second side panel of the shell, and wherein the at least one coolant outlet includes a first coolant outlet defined on the first side panel of the shell and a second coolant outlet defined on the second side panel of the shell.

13. The heat exchanger of claim 12, wherein the controller determines the first condition when the coolant fluid in the first coolant loop requires more cooling than the coolant fluid in the second coolant loop, and wherein the controller determines the second condition when the coolant fluid in the first coolant loop requires less cooling than the coolant fluid in the second coolant loop.

14. The heat exchanger of any of claims 12-13, wherein the first coolant loop directs coolant to a battery system of the vehicle and the second coolant loop directs coolant to a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system.

Images