Manifold

Abstract

The invention relates to a manifold. The manifold is provided with a flow path housing having a refrigerant flow path through which a refrigerant flows. The flow path housing includes, in the interior thereof, a gas-liquid separator that separates a liquid refrigerant, which is a liquid refrigerant contained in a gas refrigerant, from the gas refrigerant, which is a gas refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to manifolds. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, automobiles equipped with motors (hybrid electric vehicles (HEV: Hybrid Electric Vehicle), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV: Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle), battery vehicles (BEV: Battery Electric Vehicle), fuel cell vehicles (FCEV: Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle), etc.) have become popular as driving sources. The above-mentioned automobiles are equipped with batteries for driving motors. In the above-mentioned automobiles, there are many devices that need to be cooled, such as motors (including internal combustion engines such as engines), batteries, air conditioners, ECUs, etc., so a cooling circuit that circulates coolant and refrigerant is constructed to cool them. However, the above-mentioned devices are often suitable for different operating temperatures. In such a case, in order to change the temperature of the circulating coolant and refrigerant in units of devices with different operating temperatures, heat exchange is performed through heat exchangers such as coolers and water-cooled condensers, and the temperature of the coolant and refrigerant is controlled.

[0003] The heat exchange system disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a heat pump cycle. The heat pump cycle includes a compressor (a compressor in Patent Document 1), an indoor radiator, an electric expansion valve, a first heat exchanger, a solenoid valve, an evaporator (an evaporator in Patent Document 1), and auxiliary equipment such as a pressure accumulator. The heat pump cycle is a heat cycle for heating or cooling the interior of a vehicle.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-139251

[0005] In the heat exchange system disclosed in Patent Document 1, auxiliary equipment such as a compressor, an indoor radiator, an electric expansion valve, a first heat exchanger, a solenoid valve, an evaporator, and a pressure accumulator are configured as independent devices. Therefore, since the heat exchange system occupies a limited space in the engine room of the vehicle, there is room for improvement. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a manifold that is compact and low-cost by incorporating auxiliary equipment.

[0007] One embodiment of the manifold of the present invention is constructed as follows: it has a flow path shell having a refrigerant flow path for allowing the refrigerant to flow, and the flow path shell contains a gas-liquid separator inside, which separates the liquid refrigerant contained in the gas refrigerant from the gas refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant flow path.

[0008] According to the present embodiment, by including the gas-liquid separator as an auxiliary device inside the flow channel housing, the manifold can be made smaller and less expensive than when the gas-liquid separator is provided outside. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 It is a circuit configuration diagram of a cooling system having a manifold according to the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 It is a simplified diagram of the structure of the manifold.

[0011] Figure 3 The accumulator disposed in the manifold of the first embodiment is shown. Figure 2 Cross-sectional view taken along the line III-III.

[0012] Figure 4 It is a cross-sectional view of an accumulator arranged in the manifold of the second embodiment.

[0013] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 VV-direction sectional view.

[0014] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 A cross-sectional view taken along the VI-VI line.

[0015] Figure 7 It is a cross-sectional view of an accumulator arranged in the manifold of the third embodiment.

[0016] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view taken along the VIII-VIII direction.

[0017] Fig. 9 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view taken along the IX-IX line.

[0018] Fig.10 It is a cross-sectional view of an accumulator arranged in the manifold of the fourth embodiment.

[0019] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A cross-sectional view taken along the XI-XI direction.

[0020] Fig.12 yes Fig.10Cross-sectional view taken along the XII-XII direction.

[0021] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 Cross-sectional view taken along the XIII-XIII direction.

[0022] Fig.14 It is a cross-sectional view of an accumulator arranged in the manifold of the fifth embodiment.

[0023] Fig.15 It is a cross-sectional perspective view of an accumulator arranged in the manifold of the fifth embodiment.

[0024] Fig.16 yes Fig.14 Sectional view taken along line XVI-XVI.

[0025] Fig.17 yes Fig.14 Cross-sectional view taken along line XVII-XVII. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Hereinafter, the embodiment of the manifold of the present invention will be described in detail using the accompanying drawings. In addition, the embodiment described below is an example for explaining the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment. Therefore, the present invention can be implemented in various forms as long as it does not deviate from the gist thereof.

[0027] 〔Cooling system structure〕

[0028] like Figure 1 As shown, the cooling system A including the manifold 100 of the present embodiment is roughly composed of a coolant circuit B and a refrigerant circuit C. A coolant with high electrical insulation, such as an antifreeze liquid with ethylene glycol as a main component, a long-life coolant (LLC), a fluorine-based inert liquid, etc., flows in the coolant circuit B, and a refrigerant such as a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) and a hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) flows in the refrigerant circuit C. Figure 1 In the figure, the portion surrounded by the dotted line is the manifold 100 of the present embodiment. The manifold 100 has auxiliary equipment, which includes: a flow path housing 105, a pressure accumulator 21 (an example of a gas-liquid separator), a cooler 110, a water-cooled condenser 120, a first electric pump 4, a rotary valve 5 composed of a four-way valve, a second electric pump 7, a switching valve 10 composed of a three-way valve, a third electric pump 11, a first expansion valve 23, and a second expansion valve 26. Figure 1 In the figure, although the auxiliary equipment is depicted as being inside the flow path housing 105, Figure 2As shown, except for the accumulator 21, it is actually installed on the outer surface of the flow path housing 105. The accumulator 21 is included in the flow path housing 105 and is arranged inside the flow path housing 105. The accumulator 21 "arranged inside the flow path housing 105" includes that at least part of the function of the accumulator 21 is formed simultaneously when the flow path housing 105 is formed. The detailed structure of the accumulator 21 will be described later.

[0029] exist Figure 2 A simplified diagram of the structure of the manifold 100 is shown in FIG. Figure 2 In the figure, description of auxiliary equipment (such as pumps and valves) other than the accumulator 21, the cooler 110, and the water-cooled condenser 120 is omitted. In the present embodiment, the flow path housing 105 is formed by a die-casting method using a metal material having a high thermal conductivity including aluminum. Figure 2 Although the dividing surface is not shown in the figure, the flow path housing 105 is formed by joining a plurality of housing members. The flow paths constituting the coolant circuit B and the refrigerant circuit C and the accumulator 21 are formed simultaneously when the respective housing members are molded.

[0030] First, the coolant circuit B is described. The coolant circuit B is Figure 1 The coolant circuit B includes a first external flow path 31 outside the flow path housing 105 and a second internal flow path 41 and a second internal flow path 42 formed inside the flow path housing 105. A radiator 1 is arranged in the middle of the first external flow path 31. The coolant flows in the order of the second internal flow path 42, the first external flow path 31, the radiator 1, the first external flow path 31, and the first internal flow path 41. Hereinafter, the upstream side and the downstream side relative to the flow direction of the coolant in the coolant circuit B are also referred to as the upstream side and the downstream side.

[0031] The second external flow path 32 and the third external flow path 33 are branched from the first external flow path 31 on the downstream side of the radiator 1 and the upstream side of the first internal flow path 41. The second external flow path 32 is connected to the third internal flow path 43 formed inside the flow path housing 105 on the downstream side. The third internal flow path 43 is connected to the second internal flow path 42 on the downstream side. The coolant branched from the first external flow path 31 to the second external flow path 32 flows in the second external flow path 32, cools the charger 2 and the DC-DC converter 3, and flows into the third internal flow path 43. The coolant is pressurized by the first electric pump 4 in the third internal flow path 43 and then flows into the second internal flow path 42.

[0032] The fourth internal flow path 44 branches off from the third internal flow path 43 on the upstream side of the first electric pump 4 in the third internal flow path 43. Figure 1In the state of the fourth internal flow path 44, the fifth internal flow path 45 is connected via the rotary valve 5. The downstream side of the fifth internal flow path 45 is connected to the second internal flow path 42.

[0033] The third external flow path 33 is connected to the sixth internal flow path 46 formed inside the flow path housing 105 on the downstream side. The sixth internal flow path 46 is connected to the seventh internal flow path 47 via the rotary valve 5. The second electric pump 7 is arranged in the middle of the seventh internal flow path 47. The coolant branched from the first external flow path 31 to the third external flow path 33 flows in the third external flow path 33, cools the power conversion module 6, and flows into the sixth internal flow path 46. Figure 1 In the state, the coolant is pressurized by the second electric pump 7 in the seventh internal flow path 47 through the rotary valve 5, and then flows out to the outside of the flow path housing 105. The power conversion module 6 is a module that accommodates the rotary motor, the speed reducer, the differential gear mechanism, and the power converter (inverter) in the housing and integrates them. In addition, by rotating the rotary valve 5, the fourth internal flow path 44 and the sixth internal flow path 46 can be connected, and the fifth internal flow path 45 and the seventh internal flow path 47 can be connected.

[0034] The seventh internal flow path 47 is connected to the fourth external flow path 34 outside the flow path housing 105. The fourth external flow path 34 is connected to the eighth internal flow path 48 formed inside the flow path housing 105 on the downstream side. The coolant flowing out of the seventh internal flow path 47 flows in the fourth external flow path 34, is cooled by the first heater core 8, and then is heated by cooling the battery 9, and flows into the eighth internal flow path 48. The eighth internal flow path 48 is connected to the cooler 110 on the downstream side. The downstream side of the cooler 110 is connected to the second internal flow path 42. The coolant flowing in the eighth internal flow path 48 flows into the cooler 110, and after the mist-like refrigerant flowing in from the third internal refrigerant path 73 described later takes away heat and is cooled in the cooler 110, it flows in the second internal flow path 42. The coolant flowing in the second internal flow path 42 flows into the first external flow path 31 connected to the outside of the flow path housing 105.

[0035] The first internal flow path 41 connected to the first external flow path 31 is connected to the water-cooled condenser 120 on the downstream side. In addition, the switching valve 10 and the third electric pump 11 are sequentially arranged in the middle of the first internal flow path 41. The downstream side of the water-cooled condenser 120 is connected to the ninth internal flow path 49. The coolant flowing into the first internal flow path 41 is pressurized by the third electric pump 11 and flows into the water-cooled condenser 120. After the coolant in the water-cooled condenser 120 is heated by the refrigerant in the state of high-temperature compressed gas flowing from the second internal refrigerant path 72 described later, it flows in the ninth internal flow path 49 and flows out to the outside of the flow path housing 105.

[0036] The ninth internal flow path 49 is connected to the fifth external flow path 35 outside the flow path housing 105. The fifth external flow path 35 is connected to the tenth internal flow path 50 formed inside the flow path housing 105 on the downstream side. The tenth internal flow path 50 is connected to the sixth internal flow path 46 on the downstream side. The coolant flowing out of the ninth internal flow path 49 flows in the fifth external flow path 35, is cooled by the second heater core 12, and flows into the tenth internal flow path 50. The coolant flowing in the tenth internal flow path 50 flows into the sixth internal flow path 46.

[0037] The switching valve 10 disposed in the first internal flow path 41 switches the flow direction of the coolant between the first internal flow path 41 and the eleventh internal flow path 51 formed inside the flow path housing 105. The eleventh internal flow path 51 is connected to the tenth internal flow path 50 on the downstream side. When the switching valve 10 is switched so that the coolant flows in the eleventh internal flow path 51, the coolant flows from the first internal flow path 41 through the eleventh internal flow path 51 and flows into the tenth internal flow path 50, and then flows into the sixth internal flow path 46.

[0038] Next, the refrigerant circuit C is described. Figure 1 The flow path on the left side of the cooler 110 and the water-cooled condenser 120 in the flow path shell 105. The refrigerant circuit C is formed inside the flow path shell 105 for the refrigerant to flow. Relative to the cooler 110, there is a first internal refrigerant path 71 (an example of a refrigerant flow path) on the downstream side of the flow direction of the refrigerant (hereinafter, the upstream side and downstream side of the refrigerant circuit C relative to the flow direction of the refrigerant are also referred to as the upstream side and the downstream side). The first internal refrigerant path 71 is connected to the accumulator 21 formed in the flow path shell 105. The accumulator 21 is connected to the first external refrigerant path 61 formed outside the flow path shell 105 (also refer to Figure 2 ). A compressor 22 is arranged in the middle of the first external refrigerant path 61. The first external refrigerant path 61 is connected to the second internal refrigerant path 72 formed inside the flow path shell 105 on the downstream side. The second internal refrigerant path 72 is connected to the water-cooled condenser 120 on the downstream side. The downstream side of the water-cooled condenser 120 is connected to the third internal refrigerant path 73 formed inside the flow path shell 105. The third internal refrigerant path 73 is connected to the cooler 110 via the first expansion valve 23 arranged in the middle. That is, in the flow path shell 105, the water-cooled condenser 120 is installed at a position on the upstream side relative to the flow direction of the refrigerant in the third internal refrigerant path 73, and the cooler 110 is installed at a position on the downstream side relative to the flow direction of the refrigerant.

[0039] The fourth internal refrigerant path 74 branches from the third internal refrigerant path 73 on the upstream side of the first expansion valve 23 in the third internal refrigerant path 73. The second expansion valve 26 is arranged in the middle of the fourth internal refrigerant path 74. The fourth internal refrigerant path 74 is connected to the second external refrigerant path 62 formed outside the flow path housing 105. The evaporator 24 and the check valve 25 are arranged in sequence in the middle of the second external refrigerant path 62. The second external refrigerant path 62 is connected to the fifth internal refrigerant path 75 formed inside the flow path housing 105. The fifth internal refrigerant path 75 is connected to the first internal refrigerant path 71 on the downstream side.

[0040] Next, the flow of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit C is described. The refrigerant that flows in the first external refrigerant path 61 and becomes a high-temperature compressed gas through the compressor 22 flows in the first external refrigerant path 61 and flows into the water-cooled condenser 120 from the second internal refrigerant path 72. The refrigerant is deprived of heat by the coolant flowing in from the first internal flow path 41 in the water-cooled condenser 120, thereby being condensed and liquefied. Among the liquefied refrigerants, the refrigerant used for cooling the interior of the vehicle flows out of the water-cooled condenser 120 and flows through the third internal refrigerant path 73 through the fourth internal refrigerant path 74. After being expanded in the second expansion valve 26 and becoming a mist of low temperature and low pressure, it flows out of the flow path housing 105, flows in the second external refrigerant path 62, and is transported to the evaporator 24. The mist refrigerant is deprived of heat by the air introduced from the outside in the evaporator 24 and evaporates. On the contrary, the air is cooled by the heat being deprived by the refrigerant, and becomes cold air and is transported into the vehicle. The evaporated and gasified refrigerant passes through the check valve 25 disposed in the second external refrigerant path 62 and flows into the fifth internal refrigerant path 75, and is transported from the first internal refrigerant path 71 to the accumulator 21. In the accumulator 21, the gasified refrigerant (an example of gas refrigerant. Hereinafter, it is also referred to as gas refrigerant) contains liquid (an example of liquid refrigerant. Hereinafter, it is also referred to as liquid refrigerant 27 (refer to Figure 3 )), the liquid refrigerant 27 is separated from the gas refrigerant. Thereafter, the gas refrigerant flows out of the accumulator 21, flows in the first external refrigerant path 61 and flows back to the compressor 22, and is compressed again to become a high-temperature compressed gas.

[0041] The refrigerant not used for cooling the vehicle interior among the liquid refrigerant 27 liquefied by the water-cooled condenser 120 flows out of the water-cooled condenser 120 and flows in the third internal refrigerant path 73. After being expanded in the first expansion valve 23 and becoming a mist of low temperature and low pressure, it is sent to the cooler 110. The mist refrigerant is deprived of heat by the coolant flowing in from the eighth internal flow path 48 in the cooler 110 and evaporates. The evaporated and gasified gas refrigerant is sent to the accumulator 21 from the first internal refrigerant path 71. Since the second external refrigerant path 62 has the check valve 25, the gas refrigerant flowing out of the cooler 110 does not flow into the evaporator 24. In the accumulator 21, when the gas refrigerant contains liquid, the liquid refrigerant is separated. Thereafter, the gasified refrigerant flows out of the accumulator 21, flows in the first external refrigerant path 61 and flows back to the compressor 22, and is compressed again to become a high-temperature compressed gas.

[0042] 〔Structure of flow channel housing〕

[0043] Normally, heat exchange between the coolant and the refrigerant is performed only in the cooler 110 and the water-cooled condenser 120 which serve as heat exchangers. However, in the present embodiment, the flow path of the coolant circuit B and the flow path of the refrigerant circuit C are brought close to each other inside the flow path casing 105, so that heat exchange is performed not only in the cooler 110 and the water-cooled condenser 120, but also between the flow paths.

[0044] Specifically, if Figure 2As shown, the flow path connected to the cooler 110 is arranged in the flow path housing 105 so that the eighth internal flow path 48 of the coolant circuit B flowing into the cooler 110 and the first internal refrigerant path 71 of the refrigerant circuit C flowing out of the cooler 110 are arranged in parallel and close to each other, and the second internal flow path 42 of the coolant circuit B flowing out of the cooler 110 and the third internal refrigerant path 73 of the refrigerant circuit C flowing into the cooler 110 are arranged in parallel and close to each other. At this time, the flow direction of the coolant flowing in the eighth internal flow path 48 is opposite to the flow direction of the refrigerant flowing in the first internal refrigerant path 71, and the flow direction of the coolant flowing in the second internal flow path 42 is opposite to the flow direction of the refrigerant flowing in the third internal refrigerant path 73. In addition, in the flow path housing 105, the eighth internal flow path 48 and the first internal refrigerant path 71 perform heat exchange at a position formed in an L shape, and the second internal flow path 42 and the third internal refrigerant path 73 perform heat exchange at a position formed in a straight line. In the flow path housing 105, by configuring the internal flow path in this way, heat exchange is performed not only in the cooler 110, but also between the coolant flowing in the eighth internal flow path 48 and the refrigerant flowing in the first internal refrigerant path 71, and heat exchange is performed between the coolant flowing in the second internal flow path 42 and the refrigerant flowing in the third internal refrigerant path 73. In this way, since heat exchange is also performed between the internal flow path outside the cooler 110 and the internal refrigerant path, even if a small cooler is used as the cooler 110, a required sufficient cooling performance can be obtained.

[0045] In addition, specifically, Figure 2As shown, the flow path connected to the water-cooled condenser 120 is arranged in the flow path housing 105 so that the first internal flow path 41 of the coolant circuit B flowing into the water-cooled condenser 120 and the third internal refrigerant path 73 of the refrigerant circuit C flowing out of the water-cooled condenser 120 are arranged in parallel and close to each other, and the ninth internal flow path 49 of the coolant circuit B flowing out of the water-cooled condenser 120 and the second internal refrigerant path 72 of the refrigerant circuit C flowing into the water-cooled condenser 120 are arranged in parallel and close to each other. At this time, the flow direction of the coolant flowing in the first internal flow path 41 is opposite to the flow direction of the refrigerant flowing in the third internal refrigerant path 73, and the flow direction of the coolant flowing in the ninth internal flow path 49 is opposite to the flow direction of the refrigerant flowing in the second internal refrigerant path 72. In addition, in the flow path housing 105, the first internal flow path 41 and the third internal refrigerant path 73 perform heat exchange at a position formed in a straight line, and the ninth internal flow path 49 and the second internal refrigerant path 72 perform heat exchange at a position formed in an L shape. In the flow path housing 105, by configuring the internal flow paths in this way, heat exchange is performed not only between the coolant flowing in the first internal flow path 41 and the refrigerant flowing in the third internal refrigerant path 73 in the water-cooled condenser 120, but also between the coolant flowing in the ninth internal flow path 49 and the refrigerant flowing in the second internal refrigerant path 72. In this way, since heat exchange is also performed between the internal flow path outside the water-cooled condenser 120 and the internal refrigerant path, even if a small condenser is used as the water-cooled condenser 120, a required sufficient cooling performance can be obtained.

[0046] [Structure of pressure accumulator]

[0047] like Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , in the flow channel housing 105 of the manifold 100 of the present embodiment, a pressure accumulator 21 is disposed inside. Specifically, Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , a flow path having a gas-liquid separation function is formed in the flow path housing 105. Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the accumulator 21 shown, the upward direction along the paper surface is referred to as the upper side of the accumulator 21, and the downward direction is referred to as the lower side of the accumulator 21. In addition, the direction from the upper side to the lower side of the accumulator 21 is referred to as the vertical direction.

[0048] [First embodiment]

[0049] As described above, the gas refrigerant flows in the first internal refrigerant path 71 formed in the flow path housing 105. The gas refrigerant flows from the first internal refrigerant path 71 into the inflow portion 21a of the accumulator 21. The downstream end of the first internal refrigerant path 71 (the upstream end of the inflow portion 21a) is arranged near the center in the vertical direction of the flow path housing 105. The inflow portion 21a is a flow path for the gas refrigerant to flow, which is arranged between the first internal refrigerant path 71 and the gas-liquid separation portion 21b of the accumulator 21 described later.

[0050] The inflow portion 21a of the accumulator 21 is bent upward from the position connected to the first internal refrigerant path 71, and is folded back 180 degrees downward near the upper end of the flow path housing 105. The inflow portion 21a that is folded back and extends downward is connected to the gas-liquid separation portion 21b at the downstream end. The gas-liquid separation portion 21b is a flow path for the gas refrigerant that has the function of separating the liquid refrigerant 27 contained in the gas refrigerant from the gas refrigerant. The gas-liquid separation portion 21b has a U-shape that extends downward from the upper side of the flow path housing 105, folds back 180 degrees at the lower end, and extends upward. The flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the gas-liquid separation portion 21b is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the inflow portion 21a.

[0051] The gas refrigerant flowing into the accumulator 21 contains a mist-like refrigeration oil in addition to the liquid refrigerant 27. The refrigeration oil is a lubricating oil for lubricating the compressor 22. The refrigeration oil is contained in the gas refrigerant in a mist-like state and flows out of the compressor 22, and flows back to the compressor 22 together with the gas refrigerant. The mist-like refrigeration oil is separated from the gas refrigerant by the gas-liquid separation unit 21b together with the liquid refrigerant 27. Hereinafter, the liquid refrigerant 27 and the refrigeration oil are sometimes collectively referred to as the liquid refrigerant 27, etc.

[0052] The downstream end of the gas-liquid separation part 21b is located at the end above the flow path housing 105. The downstream end of the gas-liquid separation part 21b is connected to the extension protrusion 21d arranged on the opposite side of the inflow part 21a relative to the gas-liquid separation part 21b. The extension protrusion 21d is a flow path for the gas refrigerant after the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like are separated to flow, and extends and protrudes from the top of the flow path housing 105 toward the bottom, turns back 180 degrees at the lower end and extends and protrudes upward. That is, from the downstream end of the gas-liquid separation part 21b to the upstream end of the extension protrusion 21d, the flow path turns back 180 degrees, and the extension protrusion 21d has a U-shape. In addition, the upstream end and the downstream end of the extension protrusion 21d are connected by a through path 21j as a through hole. In addition, the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the extension protrusion 21d is smaller than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the gas-liquid separation part 21b.

[0053] The outflow portion 21e is disposed laterally from the downstream end of the extended protrusion 21d. The outflow portion 21e is connected to the extended protrusion 21d, and allows the gas refrigerant flowing in the extended protrusion 21d to flow. That is, the extended protrusion 21d connects the gas-liquid separation portion 21b and the outflow portion 21e. The outflow portion 21e is located at the upper end of the flow path housing 105 and is connected to the first external refrigerant path 61 (see Figure 2 ), the gas refrigerant flowing in the outflow portion 21e flows into the first external refrigerant path 61. That is, the outflow portion 21e is a flow path for the gas refrigerant separated from the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like to flow out to the outside of the accumulator 21. In addition, the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the outflow portion 21e is smaller than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the gas-liquid separation portion 21b.

[0054] The liquid refrigerant 27 and the like separated from the gas refrigerant by the gas-liquid separation part 21b are stored in the first storage part 21c (an example of a storage part) which is the bottom part of the U-shape of the gas-liquid separation part 21b. The first storage part 21c and the lower end of the extended protruding part 21d are connected by a connecting part 21f extending laterally from the first storage part 21c.

[0055] Next, the operation of the accumulator 21 of the present embodiment will be described. The gas refrigerant flowing into the inflow portion 21a from the first internal refrigerant path 71 flows into the gas-liquid separation portion 21b through the inflow portion 21a, and flows downward in the U-shaped gas-liquid separation portion 21b. As described above, in the gas-liquid separation portion 21b, the direction of the flow of the gas refrigerant is changed 180 degrees from the bottom to the top at the lower end (bottom) of the U-shape. In this way, when the gas refrigerant changes its flow direction, the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like are separated from the gas refrigerant. The separated liquid refrigerant 27 and the like are stored in the first storage portion 21c. The separated gas refrigerant such as the liquid refrigerant 27 flows upward through the gas-liquid separation portion 21b, turns back 180 degrees and flows into the extended protrusion 21d. As described above, the upstream end and the downstream end of the extended protrusion 21d are connected by the through path 21j, so the gas refrigerant flowing into the extended protrusion 21d flows separately in the extended protrusion 21d and the through path 21j and merges at the downstream end of the extended protrusion 21d. The merged gas refrigerant flows into the outflow portion 21e and flows out from the outflow portion 21e to the first external refrigerant path 61 connected to the outside of the accumulator 21.

[0056] The first storage portion 21c is connected to the extended protrusion 21d via the connecting portion 21f, so that negative pressure is generated in the first storage portion 21c and the connecting portion 21f by the gas refrigerant flowing in the extended protrusion 21d. Therefore, when the gas refrigerant passes through the lower end of the extended protrusion 21d, a part of the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like stored in the first storage portion 21c is attracted by the gas refrigerant due to the negative pressure and flows in the connecting portion 21f, and is again contained in the gas refrigerant flowing in the extended protrusion 21d. The gas refrigerant containing the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like flows upward in the extended protrusion 21d. Moreover, it merges with the gas refrigerant flowing in the through path 21j at the downstream end of the extended protrusion 21d. The gas refrigerant flowing in the through path 21j does not contain the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like. Therefore, the gas refrigerant after merging at the downstream end of the extended protrusion 21d contains only a trace amount of the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like. Thereafter, the gas refrigerant that has merged at the downstream end of the extended protrusion 21d flows through the outflow portion 21e and flows out to the outside of the accumulator 21. In addition, if the amount of liquid refrigerant 27, etc. contained in the gas refrigerant before flowing into the accumulator 21 is compared with the amount of liquid refrigerant 27, etc. contained in the gas refrigerant after flowing out of the accumulator 21, the amount of liquid refrigerant 27, etc. in the latter is significantly smaller. Assuming that the gas refrigerant containing a large amount of liquid refrigerant 27 flows into the compressor 22, liquid compression occurs in the compressor 22 and the compressor 22 may be damaged. However, by making the amount of liquid refrigerant 27 contained in the gas refrigerant in the accumulator 21 a trace amount, even if the gas refrigerant containing a trace amount of liquid refrigerant 27 flows out of the accumulator 21 and flows into the compressor 22, the compressor 22 will not be compressed in the liquid state, so there is no possibility of damaging the compressor 22. In addition, in the compressor 22, the liquid refrigerant 27 contained in the gas refrigerant is also compressed to produce a high-temperature compressed gas refrigerant, so there is no situation where the refrigeration performance in the vehicle is reduced due to insufficient gas refrigerant. In addition, when the refrigerator oil flows back to the compressor 22, it is used as lubricating oil again.

[0057] During the non-operation period of the compressor 22, the liquid refrigerant 27, etc. stored in the first storage portion 21c may sometimes exceed the prescribed storage amount (the liquid level reaches the connecting portion 21f). In such a case, in the present embodiment, the excess amount of liquid refrigerant 27, etc. flows through the connecting portion 21f and is stored in the second storage portion 21i located at the lower end of the extended protrusion 21d. The second storage portion 21i is the bottom portion of the U-shape of the extended protrusion 21d. When the compressor 22 is operated and the gas refrigerant flows in the accumulator 21, the liquid refrigerant 27, etc. stored in the second storage portion 21i is included in the gas refrigerant flowing in the extended protrusion 21d and flows out to the outside of the accumulator 21.

[0058] In the present embodiment, by including the gas-liquid separator as auxiliary equipment in the flow path housing 105 , the manifold 100 can be made smaller and less expensive compared to a case where the accumulator 21 is externally provided.

[0059] [Second embodiment]

[0060] Next, use Figures 4 to 6 The accumulator 21 disposed inside the manifold 100 of the second embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the shape of the downstream end of the inflow portion 21a in the accumulator 21 and the structure of the gas-liquid separation portion 21b are different from those of the accumulator 21 of the first embodiment. Other than that, the accumulator 21 has the same structure as the first embodiment. Therefore, in the description of this embodiment, the same reference numerals are attached to the same structures as those of the first embodiment, and detailed description of the same structures is omitted.

[0061] The downstream end of the inflow portion 21a of the accumulator 21 of the first embodiment extends downward and is connected to the gas-liquid separation portion 21b. Figure 4 , Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , the downstream end of the inflow portion 21a in this embodiment extends in the horizontal direction (a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction) and is connected to the gas-liquid separation portion 21b. Figure 6 As shown, the gas-liquid separation part 21b has an inner peripheral surface 21k that is arc-shaped when viewed from the vertical direction. Moreover, the downstream end of the inflow part 21a is arranged on the side of the upstream end of the gas-liquid separation part 21b and is connected to the gas-liquid separation part 21b. Specifically, the downstream end of the inflow part 21a is connected to the gas-liquid separation part 21b along the tangent direction of the inner peripheral surface 21k of the gas-liquid separation part 21b.

[0062] Therefore, the gas refrigerant flowing through the inflow portion 21a and into the gas-liquid separation portion 21b flows along the arc-shaped inner peripheral surface 21k and forms a swirling flow in the gas-liquid separation portion 21b in the horizontal direction. Moreover, the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like contained in the gas refrigerant are separated from the gas refrigerant by the centrifugal force generated by the swirling flow and adhere to the inner peripheral surface 21k. The liquid refrigerant 27 and the like adhered to the inner peripheral surface 21k fall downward along the inner peripheral surface 21k due to gravity and accumulate in the first storage portion 21c. The gas refrigerant separated from the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like flows upward through the gas-liquid separation portion 21b, turns back 180 degrees and flows into the extended protrusion 21d.

[0063] [Third embodiment]

[0064] Next, use Figure 7 to Figure 9The accumulator 21 disposed inside the manifold 100 of the third embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the shape of the downstream end of the inflow portion 21a in the accumulator 21 and the structure of the gas-liquid separation portion 21b are different from those of the accumulator 21 of the first and second embodiments. Other than that, the accumulator 21 has the same structure as the first and second embodiments. Therefore, in the description of this embodiment, the same reference numerals are attached to the positions of the same structures as those of the first and second embodiments, and detailed description of the same structures is omitted.

[0065] like Figure 7 , Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the downstream end of the inflow portion 21a in this embodiment extends in an oblique downward direction (an oblique downward direction inclined relative to the vertical direction) and is connected to the gas-liquid separation portion 21b. Figure 6 As shown, the gas-liquid separation part 21b has an inner peripheral surface 21k that is arc-shaped when viewed from the vertical direction. Moreover, the downstream end of the inflow part 21a is arranged on the side of the upstream end of the gas-liquid separation part 21b and is connected to the gas-liquid separation part 21b. Specifically, the downstream end of the inflow part 21a is connected to the gas-liquid separation part 21b along the tangent direction of the inner peripheral surface 21k of the gas-liquid separation part 21b.

[0066] Furthermore, the gas-liquid separation section 21b has a curved guide 21m below the downstream end of the inflow section 21a and below the inner peripheral surface 21k. Figure 7 As shown, the curved surface of the guide 21m is curved in such a way that the base end side becomes a vertical direction and the front end side becomes a horizontal direction. Therefore, the flow direction of the gas refrigerant that flows through the inflow portion 21a in an oblique downward direction and flows into the gas-liquid separation portion 21b from the oblique direction is changed to a horizontal direction by the guide 21m, and becomes a horizontal swirl flow in the gas-liquid separation portion 21b through the arc-shaped inner circumferential surface 21k. Moreover, the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like contained in the gas refrigerant are separated from the gas refrigerant by the centrifugal force generated by the swirl flow and adhere to the inner circumferential surface 21k and the guide 21m. The liquid refrigerant 27 and the like adhered to the inner circumferential surface 21k and the guide 21m fall downward along the inner circumferential surface 21k due to gravity, and fall downward from the front end of the guide 21m and accumulate in the first accumulation portion 21c. The separated gas refrigerant such as the liquid refrigerant 27 flows upward through the gas-liquid separation portion 21 b , turns back 180 degrees, and flows into the extended protrusion 21 d .

[0067] [Fourth embodiment]

[0068] Next, use Figure 10 to Figure 13The accumulator 21 disposed inside the manifold 100 of the fourth embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the difference from the third embodiment is that a plurality of grooves 21n extending along the arc-shaped inner peripheral surface 21k of the accumulator 21 are formed, and the length of the guide 21m is shortened. Other than that, the structure is the same as that of the third embodiment. Therefore, in the description of this embodiment, the same reference numerals are attached to the positions of the same structures as those of the third embodiment, and detailed description of the same structures is omitted.

[0069] In this embodiment, the plurality of grooves 21n are provided to efficiently guide the liquid refrigerant 27, etc., to the first storage portion 21c. The liquid refrigerant 27, etc. is separated from the gas refrigerant flowing into the gas-liquid separation portion 21b along the guide 21m by the centrifugal force of the swirling flow and adheres to the inner peripheral surface 21k. Specifically, the plurality of grooves 21n have a first angle θ1 inclined relative to the vertical direction, and are all formed in parallel (see Fig.13 ). In addition, the first angle θ1 of the groove 21n is an angle parallel to the tangent direction of the front end of the guide 21m whose length is shortened so that the front end is inclined relative to the vertical direction. As a result, the liquid refrigerant 27 separated and attached to the inner peripheral surface 21k flows obliquely downward along the groove 21n.

[0070] The cross-section of the plurality of grooves 21n perpendicular to the extending direction is in an arc shape. In addition, the downstream end of each of the plurality of grooves 21n, that is, the groove end 21o, does not contact the plane 21p (see Fig.12 ) contact. As a result, the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like guided to the groove end 21o of the groove 21n and discharged from the front end do not fall in the air along the plane 21p to the first storage portion 21c. Fig.13 As shown, the groove end 21o has a second angle θ2 closer to vertical than the first angle θ1 of the upstream groove 21n. Therefore, the liquid refrigerant 27 flowing obliquely downward through the groove 21n flows obliquely downward at the groove end 21o at an angle steeper than the first angle θ1 and accumulates in the first accumulation portion 21c.

[0071] The flow direction of the gas refrigerant flowing through the inflow portion 21a and flowing into the gas-liquid separation portion 21b in the inclined direction is changed by the guide 21m to the direction along the first angle θ1, and the gas-liquid separation portion 21b becomes a swirl flow along the direction of the first angle θ1 through the arc-shaped inner peripheral surface 21k. In addition, the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like contained in the gas refrigerant are separated from the gas refrigerant by the centrifugal force generated by the swirl flow and adhere to the inner peripheral surface 21k and the guide 21m. A plurality of grooves 21n are formed on the inner peripheral surface 21k, so the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like adhered to the inner peripheral surface 21k flow through the plurality of grooves 21n and after the groove end 21o becomes the second angle θ2, it is discharged from the front end of the groove end 21o, falls downward due to gravity, and is accumulated in the first accumulation portion 21c. The separated gas refrigerant such as the liquid refrigerant 27 flows upward through the gas-liquid separation portion 21b, turns back 180 degrees, and flows into the extended protrusion 21d.

[0072] In the present embodiment, a plurality of grooves 21n inclined at a first angle θ1 are formed on the inner circumferential surface 21k of the gas-liquid separation portion 21b, so that the liquid refrigerant 27 separated from the gas refrigerant by centrifugal force can flow along the grooves 21n. In this case, the flow of the liquid refrigerant 27 is restricted in the grooves 21n, and the cross section perpendicular to the extending direction of the grooves 21n is arc-shaped, so that the small droplet-shaped liquid refrigerant 27 separated from the gas refrigerant and attached to the inner circumferential surface 21k is easily gathered in the grooves 21n and formed into large droplets. If the liquid refrigerant 27 is made into large droplets, the liquid refrigerant 27 is easy to flow toward the groove end 21o in the groove 21n due to its weight. In addition, the groove end 21o of the groove 21n is inclined at a second angle θ2 closer to vertical than the first angle θ1, so that the liquid refrigerant 27 is easy to be discharged from the groove end 21o. Thus, the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like separated from the gas refrigerant can be efficiently stored in the first storage portion 21 c , and thus the separated liquid refrigerant 27 and the like can be efficiently recovered.

[0073] [Fifth embodiment]

[0074] Next, use Figure 14 to Figure 17 The accumulator 21 disposed inside the manifold 100 of the fifth embodiment is described. In this embodiment, the difference from the above-mentioned embodiments is that the gas-liquid separation portion 21b of the accumulator 21 includes a wall-shaped separation wall 21b3 and an outflow portion 21e connected to the first external refrigerant path 61. Other than that, the accumulator 21 has the same structure as the above-mentioned embodiments. Therefore, in the description of this embodiment, the same reference numerals are attached to the positions of the same structures as the above-mentioned embodiments, and detailed description of the same structures is omitted.

[0075] In the flow channel housing 105 of the manifold 100 of the present embodiment, a pressure accumulator 21 is formed inside. Specifically, Fig.14 As shown in FIG. 1 , a flow path having a gas-liquid separation function is formed in the flow path housing 105. The accumulator 21 is composed of an inlet 21a, a gas-liquid separation portion 21b, a first storage portion 21c, an extended protrusion 21d, and an outflow portion 21e. Fig.14 In the accumulator 21 shown, the upward direction along the paper surface is referred to as the upper side of the accumulator 21, and the downward direction is referred to as the lower side of the accumulator 21. In addition, the direction from the upper side to the lower side of the accumulator 21 is referred to as the vertical direction.

[0076] As described above, the gas refrigerant flows through the first internal refrigerant path 71 (see Figure 2 ) flows in. The gas refrigerant flows from the first internal refrigerant path 71 into the inlet portion 21a of the accumulator 21. The downstream end of the first internal refrigerant path 71 (the upstream end of the inlet portion 21a) is arranged near the center in the vertical direction of the flow path housing 105. The inlet portion 21a is a flow path for the gas refrigerant to flow, which is arranged between the first internal refrigerant path 71 and the gas-liquid separation portion 21b of the accumulator 21 described later.

[0077] The inflow portion 21a of the accumulator 21 is bent upward from the position connected to the first internal refrigerant path 71 to extend and protrude, and is further bent upward to extend and protrude in the horizontal direction. The horizontally extending end (downstream end) of the inflow portion 21a is connected to the gas-liquid separation portion 21b. The gas-liquid separation portion 21b has a function of separating the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like contained in the gas refrigerant from the gas refrigerant.

[0078] The gas-liquid separation part 21b has a guide space 21b1, a through hole 21b2, a separation wall 21b3, and a guide refrigerant path 21b4. The guide space 21b1 is a space for guiding the gas refrigerant flowing in the inflow part 21a to the through hole 21b2. Figure 14 to Figure 16 As shown, the guide space 21b1 is a rectangular parallelepiped space connected to the downstream end of the inflow portion 21a and extending from the downstream end of the inflow portion 21a toward the inner side of the paper. Hereinafter, the direction toward the inner side of the paper is referred to as the depth direction. The guide space 21b1 is connected to the guide refrigerant path 21b4 via the through hole 21b2. The guide refrigerant path 21b4 is formed on the inner side of the inflow portion 21a.

[0079] The through hole 21b2 is a hole formed downward from the surface on the lower side in the vertical direction among the six surfaces that divide the guide space 21b1. The inner diameter (cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path) of the through hole 21b2 is smaller than the area of ​​the surface on the lower side in the vertical direction among the surfaces that divide the guide space 21b1. Therefore, the flow velocity of the gas refrigerant when flowing in the through hole 21b2 is faster than the flow velocity of the gas refrigerant when flowing in the inlet portion 21a. As a result, the gas refrigerant is made to collide with the separation wall 21b3 described later at a high speed, thereby separating the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like from the gas refrigerant.

[0080] The through hole 21b2 is connected to a guide refrigerant path 21b4 formed parallel to the inflow portion 21a. That is, the guide refrigerant path 21b4 extends horizontally from the upstream end and bends to extend downward in the vertical direction. The downstream end of the guide refrigerant path 21b4 is connected to the first storage portion 21c. That is, the downstream end of the guide refrigerant path 21b4 is the downstream end of the gas-liquid separation portion 21b. The length of the guide refrigerant path 21b4 in the depth direction is longer than the length of the inflow portion 21a in the depth direction (refer to Fig.16 ). Among the walls that divide the guide refrigerant path 21b4, the wall located on the lower side is the separation wall 21b3. Similar to the guide refrigerant path 21b4, the separation wall 21b3 is formed to extend in the horizontal direction and then bend to extend downward in the vertical direction.

[0081] The downstream end of the gas-liquid separation section 21b is located above the flow path housing 105, and is connected to the first storage section 21c from the inlet 21c1. The inlet 21c1 is the boundary between the gas-liquid separation section 21b and the first storage section 21c. The first storage section 21c is a space for storing the liquid refrigerant 27 separated from the gas refrigerant by the gas-liquid separation section 21b. A drying material 21c3 composed of zeolite or the like is arranged in the first storage section 21c to absorb excess water mixed into the refrigerant circuit C.

[0082] At the downstream end of the first storage portion 21c, there is disposed an outflow port 21c2 connected to the extension protrusion 21d described later. That is, the outflow port 21c2 is the boundary between the first storage portion 21c and the extension protrusion 21d. The inflow port 21c1 and the outflow port 21c2 are disposed separately from each other in the opposite side areas of the inner surface 21c5 forming the first storage portion 21c when viewed from the vertical direction. In addition, a protruding wall 21c4 (an example of an outflow suppression portion) for suppressing the inflow of the liquid refrigerant 27, etc. from the outflow port 21c2 to the extension protrusion 21d is disposed near the outflow port 21c2. The protruding wall 21c4 is a wall formed by protruding convexly from the inner surface 21c5 of the first storage portion 21c toward the inner side in the horizontal direction.

[0083] A connecting portion 21f is formed near the bottom of the first storage portion 21c so as to connect the first storage portion 21c with the lower end of the extended protrusion 21d. Fig.14 , Fig.15 , Fig.17 As shown, the connecting portion 21f is formed along the horizontal direction. The connecting portion 21f has: a large diameter portion 21f1 connected to the first storage portion 21c, and a small diameter portion 21f2 connecting the large diameter portion 21f1 and the extended protrusion 21d and having an inner diameter smaller than the large diameter portion 21f1. The large diameter portion 21f1 is formed in a V shape when viewed from the vertical direction. The small diameter portion 21f2 is a flow hole, which is formed by bending 90 degrees relative to the large diameter portion 21f1. In addition, a filter 21f3 for removing foreign matter contained in the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like is arranged at the downstream end of the large diameter portion 21f1 (the boundary with the small diameter portion 21f2).

[0084] The extended protrusion 21d connected to the outflow port 21c2 as the downstream end of the first storage portion 21c is a flow path for the gas refrigerant after the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like are separated by the gas-liquid separation portion 21b to flow. After extending and protruding in the horizontal direction above the flow path housing 105, the extended protrusion 21d is bent to extend and protrude downward, turns back 180 degrees at the lower end and extends and protrudes upward, and further bends to extend and protrude in the horizontal direction.

[0085] As described above, the lower end of the extended protrusion 21d (the position at which it is folded back 180 degrees) is connected to the small diameter portion 21f2 of the communication portion 21f. In addition, the upstream end and the downstream end of the extended protrusion 21d overlap when viewed from the vertical direction, and are connected through the through path 21j as a through hole. The upstream end and the downstream end of the extended protrusion 21d and the through path 21j are provided in the central area of ​​the inner surface 21c5 and are provided above the outflow port 21c2 of the first storage portion 21c.

[0086] An outflow portion 21e is arranged upward from the downstream end of the extended protrusion 21d. The outflow portion 21e is connected to the extended protrusion 21d, and the gas refrigerant flowing in the extended protrusion 21d flows. In other words, the extended protrusion 21d is a flow path connecting the first storage portion 21c and the outflow portion 21e, and the flow direction of the gas refrigerant changes by 90 degrees from the extended protrusion 21d to the outflow portion 21e. The outflow portion 21e is located at the upper end of the flow path housing 105 and is connected to the first external refrigerant path 61, and the gas refrigerant flowing in the outflow portion 21e flows into the first external refrigerant path 61. That is, the outflow portion 21e is a flow path that allows the gas refrigerant after the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like have been separated to flow out to the outside of the accumulator 21.

[0087] Next, the operation of the accumulator 21 of the present embodiment will be described. The gas refrigerant flowing into the inflow portion 21a from the first internal refrigerant path 71 flows through the inflow portion 21a and reaches the guide space 21b1 of the gas-liquid separation portion 21b. The guide space 21b1 is connected to the through hole 21b2, and the flow direction of the gas refrigerant flowing in the horizontal direction is changed to the vertical direction. The flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the through hole 21b2 is smaller than the area of ​​the surface on the lower side in the vertical direction of the surface dividing the guide space 21b1, so the gas refrigerant flowing in the through hole 21b2 has a faster flow velocity than when flowing in the inflow portion 21a. The gas refrigerant passing through the through hole 21b2 keeps colliding with the separation wall 21b3 at a high speed, and the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like are separated from the gas refrigerant by this collision.

[0088] The separated gas refrigerant such as the liquid refrigerant 27 changes direction in the horizontal direction and flows in the guide refrigerant path 21b4, and flows into the first storage part 21c from the inlet 21c1. The gas refrigerant flowing into the first storage part 21c flows upward and flows into the extended protrusion 21d from the outlet 21c2. As described above, the upstream end and the downstream end of the extended protrusion 21d are connected through the through path 21j, so a part of the gas refrigerant flowing from the first storage part 21c into the extended protrusion 21d flows through the through path 21j and merges with the gas refrigerant flowing in the extended protrusion 21d at the downstream end of the extended protrusion 21d.

[0089] The upstream end and the downstream end of the extended protrusion 21d are connected by the through path 21j, thereby making it possible to keep the pressure of the gas refrigerant flowing in the extended protrusion 21d constant. The merged gas refrigerant flows into the outflow portion 21e and flows out from the outflow portion 21e to the first external refrigerant path 61 connected to the outside of the accumulator 21.

[0090] The liquid refrigerant 27 and the like separated from the gas refrigerant by the gas refrigerant hitting the separation wall 21b3 flows from the horizontal direction to the vertical direction along the separation wall 21b3, falls due to gravity and accumulates in the first accumulation part 21c. As described above, the first accumulation part 21c is provided with a desiccant 21c3. The desiccant 21c3 absorbs the excess water mixed into the refrigerant circuit C, thereby preventing freezing at the first expansion valve 23, the second expansion valve 26, and the like.

[0091] In addition, the inlet 21c1 and the outlet 21c2 are arranged to be separated from each other in the opposite side areas of the inner surface 21c5 forming the first storage portion 21c when viewed from the vertical direction. In this way, if the inlet 21c1 and the outlet 21c2 are arranged to be separated from each other, it is possible to suppress the inconvenience that the liquid refrigerant 27 or the like that flows into the first storage portion 21c from the inlet 21c1 does not accumulate in the first storage portion 21c but flows out from the outlet 21c2 and flows in the extended protrusion 21d.

[0092] Furthermore, near the outflow port 21c2 disposed at the boundary with the extended protrusion 21d, a protruding wall 21c4 is disposed which protrudes convexly from the inner surface 21c5 of the first storage portion 21c toward the inside in the horizontal direction. By providing the protruding wall 21c4 near the outflow port 21c2, for example, when the manifold 100 tilts on a slope or shakes due to vibration during vehicle travel, it is possible to prevent the liquid surface of the liquid refrigerant 27, etc. from approaching the outflow port 21c2. In addition, it is possible to suppress the gas refrigerant flowing into the first storage portion 21c from the gas-liquid separation portion 21b from colliding with the liquid surface of the liquid refrigerant 27, etc. stored in the first storage portion 21c, thereby blowing up the liquid refrigerant 27, etc. and causing the liquid refrigerant 27, etc. to flow into the outflow port 21c2.

[0093] The first storage portion 21c is connected to the extended protrusion 21d via the connecting portion 21f, so that negative pressure is generated in the first storage portion 21c and the connecting portion 21f by the gas refrigerant flowing in the extended protrusion 21d. Therefore, when the gas refrigerant passes through the lower end of the extended protrusion 21d, a portion of the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like stored in the first storage portion 21c is attracted by the gas refrigerant due to the negative pressure and flows through the connecting portion 21f, and is again included in the gas refrigerant flowing in the extended protrusion 21d. At this time, foreign matter contained in the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like is captured by the filter 21f3 and does not flow into the extended protrusion 21d. In addition, as Fig.14 , Fig.15 , Fig.17 As shown, the inner diameter of the small diameter portion 21f2 is much smaller than that of the large diameter portion 21f1, and therefore the amount of the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like included again in the gas refrigerant flowing in the extended protrusion 21d is very small.

[0094] The gas refrigerant containing liquid refrigerant 27 and the like at the lower end of the extended protrusion 21d flows upward in the extended protrusion 21d. As described above, the flow direction of the gas refrigerant changes 90 degrees at the downstream end of the extended protrusion 21d and flows through the outflow portion 21e. At this time, a part of the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like contained in the gas refrigerant does not follow the gas refrigerant but adheres to the wall at the downstream end of the extended protrusion 21d. As described above, the through path 21j is provided above the outflow port 21c2 of the first storage portion 21c, so the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like attached to the wall returns to the first storage portion 21c through the through path 21j. As a result, the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like are restrained from excessively flowing out to the outside of the accumulator 21.

[0095] In the present embodiment, by including the gas-liquid separator as auxiliary equipment in the flow path housing 105 , the manifold 100 can be made smaller and less expensive compared to a case where the accumulator 21 is externally provided.

[0096] [Other implementation methods]

[0097] (1) In the first embodiment, the gas-liquid separation portion 21b of the accumulator 21 has a U-shape, but the shape is not limited thereto. Any shape may be used as long as the shape can separate the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like from the gas refrigerant. In addition, a plate-like portion that separates the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like by causing the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like to collide with each other may be provided in the gas-liquid separation portion 21b.

[0098] (2) In addition to the structure of the third embodiment, a plurality of grooves 21n are formed on the inner peripheral surface 21k as the fourth embodiment, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the structure of the second embodiment, a plurality of grooves 21n may be formed on the inner peripheral surface 21k.

[0099] (3) In the structure of the third embodiment, the cross section of the groove 21n is an arc shape, but it is not limited to this. For example, it can also be a groove with a triangular cross section. As long as it is a shape that can effectively guide the separated liquid refrigerant 27 to the first storage portion 21c, any shape can be applied.

[0100] (4) In the fifth embodiment, in the gas-liquid separation section 21b of the accumulator 21, the gas refrigerant is made to collide with the separation wall 21b3 extending and protruding in the horizontal direction from the vertical direction, but the present invention is not limited to this. The separation wall 21b3 may also be inclined toward the first storage section 21c. If the separation wall 21b3 is inclined, it is easy to guide the separated liquid refrigerant 27 and the like to the first storage section 21c. In addition, the separation wall 21b3 may extend and protrude in the vertical direction, so that the gas refrigerant is collided from the horizontal direction. If the separation wall 21b3 extends and protrudes in the vertical direction, the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like separated by the collision of the gas refrigerant falls along the separation wall 21b3, so that the liquid refrigerant 27 and the like are easily accumulated in the first storage section 21c.

[0101] (5) In the fifth embodiment, the large diameter portion 21f1 of the communication portion 21f is formed into a V-shape when viewed from the vertical direction, but the large diameter portion 21f1 may be linear. In addition, the small diameter portion 21f2 is bent 90 degrees relative to the large diameter portion 21f1, but the large diameter portion 21f1 and the small diameter portion 21f2 may be arranged in a linear shape.

[0102] (6) In the fifth embodiment, a filter 21f3 is provided in the connecting portion 21f to remove foreign matter contained in the liquid refrigerant 27, etc. However, the filter 21f3 is not required as long as the foreign matter contained in the liquid refrigerant 27, etc. does not have a negative impact on the operation of the refrigerant circuit C.

[0103] In the above-mentioned embodiment of the manifold 100, the following structure is conceivable.

[0104] <1> An embodiment of the manifold (100) is constituted by a flow path housing (105) having a refrigerant flow path (71) for flowing the refrigerant, the flow path housing (105) internally including a gas-liquid separator (21), the gas-liquid separator (21) separating a liquid refrigerant (27) as a liquid refrigerant contained in the gas refrigerant from a gas refrigerant as a gas refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant flow path (71).

[0105] The manifold (100) of this embodiment is configured such that a gas-liquid separator (21) as an auxiliary device is included inside a flow path casing (105), thereby making the manifold (100) smaller and less expensive than when the gas-liquid separator (21) is externally disposed.

[0106] <2> Based on the manifold (100) of <1> above, the gas-liquid separator (21) preferably includes: an inlet portion (21a) for inflow of gas refrigerant; a gas-liquid separation portion (21b) for separating liquid refrigerant (27) from the gas refrigerant flowing into the inlet portion (21a); ​​a storage portion (21c) for storing the liquid refrigerant (27) separated by the gas-liquid separation portion (21b); an outflow portion (21e) for outflow of gas refrigerant after the liquid refrigerant (27) is separated; and an extended protrusion (21d) for connecting the gas-liquid separation portion (21b) and the outflow portion (21e).

[0107] Thus, the gas-liquid separator (21) includes: an inlet (21a) for inflow of gas refrigerant; a gas-liquid separation part (21b) for separating liquid refrigerant (27) from the gas refrigerant flowing into the inlet (21a); ​​a storage part (21c) for storing the liquid refrigerant (27) separated by the gas-liquid separation part (21b); an outflow part (21e) for outflow of the gas refrigerant after the liquid refrigerant (27) is separated; and an extended protrusion (21d) for connecting the gas-liquid separation part (21b) and the outflow part (21e). Thus, the gas refrigerant flowing into the inlet (21a) of the gas-liquid separator (21) is efficiently separated from the liquid refrigerant (27) by the gas-liquid separation part (21b), flows through the extended protrusion (21d) and flows out from the outflow part (21e). On the other hand, the liquid refrigerant (27) separated by the gas-liquid separation section (21b) can be stored in the storage section (21c).

[0108] <3> In the manifold (100) of <2> above, the gas-liquid separator (21) preferably further includes a through-path (21j) connecting the upstream end and the downstream end of the extended protrusion (21d).

[0109] Thus, the pressure of the gas refrigerant flowing in the extended protrusion (21d) can be kept constant.

[0110] <4> Based on the manifold (100) of <2> or <3> above, it is preferred that: the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the gas-liquid separation section (21b) is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet section (21a) and the outflow section (21e), the downstream end of the inlet section (21a) is arranged above the upstream end of the gas-liquid separation section (21b) and is connected to the gas-liquid separation section (21b), the extended protrusion (21d) is folded back from the downstream end of the gas-liquid separation section (21b) and extends downward, the outflow section (21e) is arranged on the side of the downstream end of the extended protrusion (21d), and the gas refrigerant flows downward from the inlet section (21a) into the gas-liquid separation section (21b) and flows out to the side from the outflow section (21e).

[0111] Thus, the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the gas-liquid separation section (21b) of the gas-liquid separator (21) is larger than the flow path cross-sectional areas of the inlet section (21a) and the outlet section (21e). Furthermore, the downstream end of the inlet section (21a) is arranged above the upstream end of the gas-liquid separation section (21b) and is connected to the gas-liquid separation section (21b), the extended protrusion (21d) is folded back from the downstream end of the gas-liquid separation section (21b) and extends downward, and the outlet section (21e) is arranged on the side of the downstream end of the extended protrusion (21d), and the gas refrigerant flows downward from the inlet section (21a) into the gas-liquid separation section (21b) and flows out to the side from the outlet section (21e). Thus, the occupied volume can be minimized while ensuring the functions required as a gas-liquid separator (21), so that the manifold (100) can be made small and low-cost.

[0112] <5> Based on the manifold (100) of <2> or <3> above, it is preferred that: the gas-liquid separation section (21b) has an inner circumferential surface (21k) that is arc-shaped when viewed from the vertical direction, the downstream end of the inlet section (21a) is arranged on the side of the upstream end of the gas-liquid separation section (21b) and is connected to the gas-liquid separation section (21b), the extended protrusion (21d) is folded back from the downstream end of the gas-liquid separation section (21b) and extends downward, the outflow section (21e) is arranged on the side of the downstream end of the extended protrusion (21d), the gas refrigerant flows in from the inlet section (21a) along a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and along the tangent direction of the inner circumferential surface (21k) of the gas-liquid separation section (21b) and swirls on the inner circumferential surface (21k), and flows out to the side from the outflow section (21e).

[0113] Thus, the gas-liquid separation section (21b) has an inner peripheral surface (21k) that is arc-shaped when viewed from the vertical direction. Furthermore, the downstream end of the inflow section (21a) is arranged on the side of the upstream end of the gas-liquid separation section (21b) and is connected to the gas-liquid separation section (21b), the extended protrusion (21d) is folded back from the downstream end of the gas-liquid separation section (21b) and extends downward, and the outflow section (21e) is arranged on the side of the downstream end of the extended protrusion (21d), and the gas refrigerant flows from the inflow section (21a) along a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and along a tangent direction of the inner peripheral surface (21k) of the gas-liquid separation section (21b) and swirls on the inner peripheral surface (21k), and flows out to the side from the outflow section (21e). Thus, the gas refrigerant flowing into the inlet (21a) of the gas-liquid separator (21) is efficiently separated into the liquid refrigerant (27) by centrifugal force in the gas-liquid separation section (21b), and then flows out from the outflow section (21e). In addition, the volume occupied can be minimized while ensuring the functions required as the gas-liquid separator (21), so that the manifold (100) can be made small and low-cost.

[0114] <6> Based on the manifold (100) of <2> or <3> above, preferably: the gas-liquid separation section (21b) has an inner peripheral surface (21k) that is arc-shaped when viewed from the vertical direction, and a curved surface guide (21m) located below the inner peripheral surface (21k), and the downstream end of the inflow section (21a) is arranged on the side of the upstream end of the gas-liquid separation section (21b) and is arranged in a manner that at least a portion overlaps with the guide (21m) when viewed from the vertical direction, and is aligned with the gas-liquid separation section (21b). The gas-liquid separation section (21b) is connected to the gas-liquid separation section (21b), the extended protrusion (21d) is bent back from the downstream end of the gas-liquid separation section (21b) and extends downward, the outflow section (21e) is arranged on the side of the downstream end of the extended protrusion (21d), and the gas refrigerant flows from the inlet section (21a) along the tangent direction of the inner circumferential surface (21k) of the gas-liquid separation section (21b) in a manner of flowing obliquely downward relative to the vertical direction, swirls on the inner circumferential surface (21k), and flows out to the side from the outflow section (21e).

[0115] Thus, the gas-liquid separation section (21b) includes an inner peripheral surface (21k) having an arc shape when viewed from a vertical direction, and a curved guide (21m) located below the inner peripheral surface (21k). Furthermore, the downstream end of the inlet portion (21a) is arranged on the side of the upstream end of the gas-liquid separation portion (21b) and is arranged in a manner that at least a portion overlaps with the guide member (21m) when viewed from the vertical direction, and is connected to the gas-liquid separation portion (21b). The extended protrusion (21d) is folded back from the downstream end of the gas-liquid separation portion (21b) and extends downward. The outflow portion (21e) is arranged on the side of the downstream end of the extended protrusion (21d). The gas refrigerant flows from the inlet portion (21a) along the tangent direction of the inner circumferential surface (21k) of the gas-liquid separation portion (21b) in a manner that it flows obliquely downward from the inlet portion (21a) relative to the vertical direction and swirls on the inner circumferential surface (21k), and flows out to the side from the outflow portion (21e). Thus, the gas refrigerant flowing into the inlet (21a) of the gas-liquid separator (21) is efficiently separated into the liquid refrigerant (27) by centrifugal force in the gas-liquid separation section (21b), and then flows out from the outflow section (21e). In addition, the volume occupied can be minimized while ensuring the functions required as the gas-liquid separator (21), so that the manifold (100) can be made small and low-cost.

[0116] <7> Based on the manifold (100) of <2> or <3> above, preferably: the gas-liquid separation section (21b) has an inner peripheral surface (21k) that is arc-shaped when viewed from a vertical direction, and the gas-liquid separation section (21b) has a plurality of grooves (21n) extending along the inner peripheral surface (21k).

[0117] Thus, the gas-liquid separation section (21b) has a plurality of grooves (21n) extending along the arc-shaped inner peripheral surface (21k). Thus, the liquid refrigerant (27) separated from the gas refrigerant by the gas-liquid separation section (21b) by centrifugal force can flow along the grooves (21n). In this case, the flow of the liquid refrigerant (27) is restricted in the grooves (21n), so that the separated liquid refrigerant (27) gathers and easily becomes large droplets, so that the separated liquid refrigerant (27) can be efficiently recovered.

[0118] <8> Based on the manifold (100) of <7> above, it is preferred that: the gas-liquid separation portion (21b) has a curved surface guide (21m) below the inner circumferential surface (21k), and the plurality of grooves (21n) have portions inclined relative to the vertical direction so that the liquid refrigerant (27) flows obliquely downward at a first angle (θ1) parallel to the tangent direction at the front end of the guide (21m).

[0119] Thus, the plurality of grooves (21n) are inclined at a first angle (θ1) relative to the vertical direction, so that the separated liquid refrigerant (27) easily flows obliquely downward along the grooves (21n), thereby enabling the separated liquid refrigerant (27) to be efficiently recovered.

[0120] <9> Based on the manifold (100) of <8> above, it is preferred that: the groove end (21o) on the downstream side of the plurality of grooves (21n) in the swirling direction of the gas refrigerant is inclined at a second angle (θ2) closer to vertical than the first angle (θ1) so that the liquid refrigerant (27) flows obliquely downward.

[0121] Thus, the groove end (21o) of the groove (21n) is inclined at the second angle (θ2) which is closer to vertical than the first angle (θ1), so that the liquid refrigerant (27) is easily discharged from the groove end (21o) to the storage portion (21c).

[0122] <10> In any one of the manifolds (100) described in <7> to <9> above, it is preferred that a cross section perpendicular to the extending direction of the groove (21n) is arc-shaped.

[0123] Thus, the cross section perpendicular to the extending direction of the groove (21n) is arc-shaped, so the separated liquid refrigerant (27) is easily aggregated to form large droplets, thereby enabling efficient recovery.

[0124] <11> In any one of the manifolds (100) described above in <1> to <3>, the gas-liquid separator (21) preferably includes a gas-liquid separation section (21b) for separating the liquid refrigerant (27) from the gas refrigerant by causing the refrigerant to collide with the gas refrigerant.

[0125] Therefore, the gas-liquid separator (21) has a gas-liquid separation section (21b) for separating the liquid refrigerant (27) from the gas refrigerant by causing the refrigerant to collide with the gas-liquid separation section (21b), so that the liquid refrigerant (27) can be effectively separated from the gas refrigerant by causing the refrigerant to collide with the gas-liquid separation section (21b).

[0126] <12> Based on the manifold (100) of <11>, it is preferred that: the gas-liquid separator (21) further includes an inflow portion (21a) for allowing gas refrigerant to flow to the gas-liquid separation portion (21b), a storage portion (21c) for storing the liquid refrigerant (27) separated by the gas-liquid separation portion (21b), an outflow portion (21e) for allowing the gas refrigerant to flow out after the liquid refrigerant (27) is separated by the gas-liquid separation portion (21b), and an extended protrusion (21d) connecting the storage portion (21c) and the outflow portion (21e), and an outflow suppression portion (21c4) is convexly formed at the outflow outlet (21c2) serving as the boundary between the storage portion (21c) and the extended protrusion (21d), and the outflow suppression portion (21c4) suppresses the liquid refrigerant (27) stored in the storage portion (21c) from flowing out to the extended protrusion (21d).

[0127] Thus, for example, when the manifold (100) tilts on a slope or shakes due to vibration during the running of the vehicle, the outflow suppression portion (21c4) can prevent the liquid surface of the liquid refrigerant (27) or the like from approaching the outflow port (21c2). In addition, the outflow suppression portion (21c4) can suppress the gas refrigerant flowing from the gas-liquid separation portion (21b) into the storage portion (21c) from colliding with the liquid surface of the liquid refrigerant (27) or the like stored in the storage portion (21c) to blow up the liquid refrigerant (27) or the like and cause the liquid refrigerant (27) or the like to flow into the outflow port (21c2).

[0128] <13> Based on the manifold (100) of <12> above, it is preferred that: the inlet (21c1) and the outlet (21c2) serving as the boundary between the gas-liquid separator (21) and the storage portion (21c) are arranged to be separated from each other in opposite side areas of the inner surface (21c5) forming the storage portion (21c) when viewed from the vertical direction.

[0129] Not only gas refrigerant but also liquid refrigerant (27) and the like flows into the storage section (21c) from the inlet (21c1) which is the boundary between the gas-liquid separator (21) and the storage section (21c). Therefore, if the inlet (21c1) and the outlet (21c2) are arranged in mutually separated positions on opposite side areas of the inner surface (21c5) forming the storage section (21c) when viewed from the vertical direction, it is possible to suppress the undesirable situation that the liquid refrigerant (27) and the like flowing into the storage section (21c) from the inlet (21c1) does not accumulate in the storage section (21c) but flows out from the outlet (21c2).

[0130] <14> Based on the manifold (100) of <12> or <13> above, it is preferred that: the downstream end of the extended protrusion (21d) of the gas-liquid separator (21) is arranged in the central area of ​​the inner surface (21c5) when viewed from the vertical direction, and the above-mentioned gas-liquid separator (21) also has a through path (21j) connecting the upstream end and the downstream end of the extended protrusion (21d).

[0131] Thus, the pressure of the gas refrigerant flowing in the extended protrusion (21d) can be made constant. In addition, when the entire lower end of the extended protrusion (21d) (the position folded back 180 degrees) is filled with liquid refrigerant (27) and the gas refrigerant cannot flow through the extended protrusion (21d), the gas refrigerant can flow directly to the outflow portion (21e) via the through path (21j).

[0132] Possibility of industrial application

[0133] The present invention can be used in manifolds.

[0134] Description of Reference Numerals

[0135] 21...accumulator (gas-liquid separator); 21a...inflow section; 21b...gas-liquid separation section; 21c...first storage section (storage section); 21c1...inflow port; 21c2...outflow port; 21c4...projecting wall (outflow suppression section); 21c5...inner surface; 21d...extended projection; 21e...outflow section; 21f...connecting section; 21j...through path; 21k...inner circumferential surface; 21m...guide; 21n...groove; 21o...groove end; 27...liquid refrigerant; 71...first internal refrigerant path (refrigerant flow path); 100...manifold; 105...flow path casing; θ1...first angle; θ2...second angle.

Claims

1. A manifold comprising: a flow path housing having a refrigerant flow path through which the refrigerant flows, The flow path casing includes a gas-liquid separator therein, and the gas-liquid separator separates the liquid refrigerant, which is the liquid refrigerant, contained in the gas refrigerant from the gas refrigerant, which is the gas refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant flow path.

2. The manifold according to claim 1, wherein: The gas-liquid separator includes: an inflow portion for the gas refrigerant to flow in; a gas-liquid separation portion for separating the liquid refrigerant from the gas refrigerant flowing into the inflow portion; and a storage portion for storing the liquid refrigerant separated by the gas-liquid separation portion. an outflow portion through which the gas refrigerant flows out after the liquid refrigerant is separated; and an extended protrusion portion connecting the gas-liquid separation portion and the outflow portion.

3. The manifold of claim 2, wherein: The gas-liquid separator further includes a through path connecting the upstream end and the downstream end of the extended protrusion.

4. A manifold according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the gas-liquid separation part is larger than the flow path cross-sectional areas of the inflow part and the outflow part. The downstream end of the inflow portion is arranged above the upstream end of the gas-liquid separation portion and communicates with the gas-liquid separation portion. The extended protrusion is folded back from the downstream end of the gas-liquid separation part and extends downward. The outflow portion is arranged on the side of the downstream end of the extending protrusion, The gas refrigerant flows downward from the inflow portion into the gas-liquid separation portion, and flows out laterally from the outflow portion.

5. A manifold according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The gas-liquid separation portion has an inner peripheral surface that is arc-shaped when viewed from a vertical direction, The downstream end of the inflow portion is arranged on the side of the upstream end of the gas-liquid separation portion and communicates with the gas-liquid separation portion. The extended protrusion is folded back from the downstream end of the gas-liquid separation part and extends downward. The outflow portion is arranged on the side of the downstream end of the extending protrusion, The gas refrigerant flows from the inflow portion along a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and along a tangential direction of the inner peripheral surface of the gas-liquid separation portion, swirls on the inner peripheral surface, and flows out laterally from the outflow portion.

6. A manifold according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The gas-liquid separation unit includes: an inner peripheral surface having an arc shape when viewed from a vertical direction, and a curved guide located below the inner peripheral surface. The downstream end of the inflow portion is arranged on the side of the upstream end of the gas-liquid separation portion and is arranged so as to overlap at least a portion of the guide when viewed from the vertical direction, and is communicated with the gas-liquid separation portion. The extended protrusion is folded back from the downstream end of the gas-liquid separation part and extends downward. The outflow portion is arranged on the side of the downstream end of the extending protrusion, The gas refrigerant flows from the inlet along a tangential direction of the inner peripheral surface of the gas-liquid separation portion so as to flow obliquely downward with respect to the vertical direction, swirls on the inner peripheral surface, and flows out laterally from the outflow portion.

7. A manifold according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The gas-liquid separation portion has an inner peripheral surface that is arc-shaped when viewed from a vertical direction, The gas-liquid separation portion has a plurality of grooves extending along the inner peripheral surface.

8. The manifold of claim 7, wherein: The gas-liquid separation unit has a curved guide below the inner peripheral surface. The plurality of grooves have portions inclined with respect to the vertical direction so that the liquid refrigerant flows obliquely downward at a first angle parallel to a tangential direction at a front end of the guide.

9. The manifold of claim 8, wherein: The groove ends on the downstream side of the plurality of grooves in the swirling direction of the gas refrigerant are inclined at a second angle closer to vertical than the first angle so that the liquid refrigerant flows obliquely downward.

10. The manifold of claim 7, wherein: A cross section perpendicular to the extending direction of the groove is in an arc shape.

11. The manifold according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The gas-liquid separator includes a gas-liquid separation unit configured to separate the liquid refrigerant from the gas refrigerant by causing the refrigerant to collide with each other.

12. The manifold of claim 11, wherein: The gas-liquid separator further comprises: an inflow portion for the gas refrigerant to flow to the front of the gas-liquid separation portion; and a storage portion for storing the liquid refrigerant separated by the gas-liquid separation portion. an outflow portion for the gas refrigerant to flow out after the liquid refrigerant is separated by the gas-liquid separation portion; and an extended protrusion portion connecting the storage portion and the outflow portion, An outflow suppressing portion is formed in a convex shape at a flow outlet that is a boundary between the storage portion and the extended portion, and suppresses the liquid refrigerant stored in the storage portion from flowing out toward the extended portion.

13. The manifold of claim 12, wherein: The inlet and the outlet, which are boundaries between the gas-liquid separation section and the storage section, are arranged to be separated from each other in opposite side regions forming the inner surface of the storage section when viewed in the vertical direction.

14. The manifold of claim 12, wherein: The downstream end of the extended protrusion of the gas-liquid separator is disposed in a central region of the inner surface when viewed in a vertical direction, and the gas-liquid separator further includes a through path connecting the upstream end and the downstream end of the extended protrusion.

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