Flow path unit and refrigerant circulation device

Abstract

The invention provides a flow path unit and a refrigerant circulation device. A flow path unit according to the present disclosure is provided with: a main body having a flow path continuous with each of a first opening and a second opening; a first cylinder extending in a first direction intersecting the first opening in the flow path and having a plurality of holes formed therein; the sensor is used for detecting the pressure in the first cylinder. And one end of the first cylinder body in the first direction is connected with the first opening. The sensor is disposed closer to the other end of the first cylinder than the one end of the first cylinder.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to flow path units and refrigerant circulation devices. Background Technology

[0002] A refrigerant circulation device is known to cool an object by transferring heat received from the object to a circulating refrigerant (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-140342 Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a technique for improving the usability of refrigerant circulation devices.

[0005] An exemplary embodiment of this disclosure pertains to a flow path unit comprising a body, a first cylinder, and a sensor. The body has flow paths continuous with a first opening and a second opening, respectively. The first cylinder extends within the flow paths in a first direction intersecting the first opening. The first cylinder has a plurality of holes formed therein. The sensor detects pressure within the first cylinder. One end of the first cylinder in the first direction is connected to the first opening. The sensor is positioned near the other end of the first cylinder, relative to that end.

[0006] Another exemplary aspect of this disclosure pertains to a refrigerant circulation device having the aforementioned flow path unit at the refrigerant inlet.

[0007] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide technology that improves the usability of refrigerant circulation devices. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the cooling system 100. Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of CDU1. Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the internal structure of CDU1. Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 The cross-sectional view of CDU1 along line IV-IV is shown. Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 The longitudinal section view of CDU1 along line VV is shown. Figure 6 It is along Figure 3 The longitudinal section view of CDU1 along line VI-VI is shown. Figure 7 It is shown Figure 3 A three-dimensional view of the flow path unit 15a shown. Figure 8 It is along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of flow path unit 15a of VIII-VIII shown. Figure 9 It is shown Figure 8 An enlarged view of the end of the flow path unit 15a on the X2 side in the X direction. Figure 10 It is shown Figure 8 An enlarged view of the end of the flow path unit 15a on the X1 side in the X direction. Figure 11 It shows that it was formed in Figure 2 A perspective view of openings 111a and 111b of the shell 11 shown. Figure 12 It shows the process Figure 11 The diagram shows the insertion and removal of pumps 15g and 15h with openings 111a and 111b. Figure 13 It is shown Figure 12 The diagram shows a perspective view of the fixed structure of pumps 15g and 15h relative to the housing 11. Figure 14 It is shown Figure 13 A perspective view of the fixing structure of rod 183 shown. Detailed Implementation

[0009] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, identical or equivalent parts in the drawings will be labeled with the same reference numerals and will not be described repeatedly.

[0010] [Cooling System 100] exist Figure 1 In the cooling system 100, the components include a refrigerant circulation device (hereinafter also referred to as "CDU") 1, a distribution manifold 2, a collection manifold 3, at least one cold plate 4, a cooling device 6, and flow paths 7 and 8. The components are used to cool at least one heat source 5 disposed in the space A01.

[0011] Alternatively, if the cooling system 100 has a cold plate 4, the cooling system 100 may not have a distribution manifold 2 and a collection manifold 3.

[0012] The CDU1, distribution manifold 2, collection manifold 3, and cold plate 4 are located within space A01. Space A01 is, for example, a server room.

[0013] [Heat source 5, rack 9] A rack 9 is provided in space A01. For example, multiple heat sources 5 are housed within the rack 9. Typically, each heat source 5 is an electronic component or electronic device. Electronic components are parts that constitute electronic devices, such as a central processing unit (so-called a CPU), electrolytic capacitors, power semiconductor modules, or printed circuit boards. Electronic components operate and generate heat due to power supply. The electronic device is a rack-mount server or a blade server. The electronic device could also be other projectors, personal computers, or monitors.

[0014] [CDU1] The CDU1 can be marketed as a component of the cooling system 100. When marketed as part of the cooling system 100, the cooling device 6 and flow paths 7 and 8 can also be removed from the cooling system 100. The CDU1 can also be marketed independently. In this embodiment, the CDU1 is housed, for example, in the rack 9 during use. However, it is not limited to this; the CDU1 can also be installed outside the rack 9 during use.

[0015] [Shell 11] The CDU1 includes a housing 11. The housing 11 includes an outer casing and a frame, which divides the internal space of the CDU1 from the external space of the CDU1. The housing 11 has a primary flow inlet 11a, a primary flow outlet 11b, a secondary flow inlet 11c, and a secondary flow outlet 11d on the outer casing.

[0016] Low-temperature primary refrigerant C1 flows into primary inlet 11a via flow path 7. High-temperature secondary refrigerant C2 flows into secondary inlet 11c from collection manifold 3. CDU1 passes through heat exchanger 16 (see reference). Figure 2 Heat exchange occurs between the primary refrigerant C1 (low temperature) flowing into CDU1 from the primary inlet 11a and the secondary refrigerant C2 (high temperature) flowing into CDU1 from the secondary inlet 11c. Consequently, within CDU1, the heat energy of the secondary refrigerant C2 moves towards the primary refrigerant C1. Specifically, the temperature of the secondary refrigerant C2 flowing out of CDU1 is lower than when it flows into CDU1. CDU1 is pumped by pumps 15g and 15h (refer to...). Figure 2 The secondary refrigerant C2, which becomes low-temperature refrigerant, is pumped from the secondary outlet 11d toward the distribution manifold 2. The primary refrigerant C1, which becomes high-temperature refrigerant C1, is sent from the primary outlet 11b to the flow path 8.

[0017] [Primary refrigerant C1, secondary refrigerant C2] The primary refrigerant C1 is, for example, a fluid such as a coolant. Examples of coolants include antifreeze or pure water. Typical examples of antifreeze are aqueous solutions of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol. The secondary refrigerant C2 is a fluid of the same or different type as the primary refrigerant C1. Furthermore, at least one of the primary refrigerant C1 and the secondary refrigerant C2 may also be a gaseous refrigerant.

[0018] [Distribution Manifold 2] exist Figure 1 In this configuration, the distribution manifold 2 has a common flow path 21 and multiple individual flow paths 22. Additionally, in... Figure 1 For ease of explanation, only two separate flow paths 22 are shown. Fluid can flow in both the common flow path 21 and each separate flow path 22. One end T21 of the common flow path 21 is connected to the secondary outlet 11d and serves as the inlet for the fluid in the distribution manifold 2. One end T22a of each separate flow path 22 is connected to the common flow path 21. The other end T22b of each separate flow path 22 serves as the outlet for the secondary refrigerant C2 in the distribution manifold 2 and is connected to the inlet 41 of the cold plate 4. Therefore, the secondary refrigerant C2 (low temperature) flowing into the inlet (i.e., one end T21) of the distribution manifold 2 first flows within the common flow path 21, and after being branched into each separate flow path 22, flows out from each outlet (i.e., the other end T22b) of the distribution manifold 2.

[0019] In addition, in each embodiment, unless there is an adjective verb that adds further description to "connection", the term "connection" means "connection in a manner in which fluid can flow".

[0020] [Cold Plate 4] Figure 1 In this configuration, each cold plate 4 is in thermal contact with at least one heat source 5. Secondary refrigerant C2 (low temperature) flows within each cold plate 4. Specifically, each cold plate 4 is configured to be in direct thermal contact with the heat source 5. Alternatively, each cold plate 4 may be configured, for example, to be in thermal contact with the heat source 5 via a heat-conducting plate (not shown). That is, the term "thermal contact" includes both "direct thermal contact" and "indirect thermal contact."

[0021] Each cold plate 4 has an inlet 41, an outlet 42, and an internal flow path 43 for secondary refrigerant C2. The internal flow path 43 connects the inlet 41 and the outlet 42. Secondary refrigerant C2 (low temperature) flows into the inlet 41 from a separate flow path 22 connected to the inlet 41. The secondary refrigerant C2 flows to the outlet 42 within the internal flow path 43. Therefore, the heat energy generated in the heat source 5 moves towards the secondary refrigerant C2 flowing in the internal flow path 43 of the cold plate 4, which is in thermal contact with the heat source 5. As a result, the heat source 5 is cooled, and the temperature of the secondary refrigerant C2 rises. The secondary refrigerant C2 (high temperature) flows out from the outlet 42 to a separate flow path 31 of the collection manifold 3.

[0022] [Collect Manifold 3] Figure 1 In the middle, the collection manifold 3 has multiple individual flow paths 31 and a common flow path 32. Additionally, in Figure 1For ease of explanation, two separate flow paths 31 are shown. Fluid can flow in each separate flow path 31 and the common flow path 32. One end T31a of each separate flow path 31 serves as the inlet for the fluid in the collection manifold 3 and is connected to the outlet 42. The other end T31b of each separate flow path 31 is connected to the common flow path 32. One end T32 of the common flow path 32 serves as the outlet for the fluid in the collection manifold 3 and is connected to the secondary inlet 11c. Therefore, the secondary refrigerant C2 flowing from the cold plate 4 into each inlet (i.e., one end T31a) of the collection manifold 3 merges in the common flow path 32 and flows out from one end (i.e., one end T32) of the collection manifold to the secondary inlet 11c of the CDU1. Thus, the secondary refrigerant C2 circulates in this order in the CDU1, the distribution manifold 2, the cold plate 4, and the collection manifold 3.

[0023] [Cooling device 6] Figure 1 In this system, the cooling device 6 is, for example, located outside space A01. Alternatively, the cooling device 6 can be located either indoors or outdoors. The cooling device 6 is, for example, a refrigeration unit or a cooling tower. The cooling device 6 includes: an inlet 61 and an outlet 62 for primary refrigerant C1, and an internal flow path 63; a cooling section 64; and a pump 65. The internal flow path 63 connects the inlet 61 and the outlet 62. The cooling section 64 and the pump 65 are respectively inserted into the internal flow path 63.

[0024] The primary refrigerant C1 flowing into the inlet 61 passes through the flow path and flows into the cooling section 64. The cooling section 64 cools the primary refrigerant C1 flowing into it. The cooling method in the cooling section 64 can be either air cooling or water cooling. After flowing out of the cooling section 64, the primary refrigerant C1 passes through the internal flow path 63 and flows into the pump 65. The pump 65 pressurizes the primary refrigerant C1 flowing into it towards the outlet 62. Figure 1 In this configuration, pump 65 is located between cooling section 64 and outlet 62 within internal flow path 63. However, it is not limited to this configuration; pump 65 may also be located between inlet 61 and cooling section 64 within internal flow path 63.

[0025] [Parts of CDU1 (First Embodiment)] Next, refer to Figures 2-6 The various parts of CDU1 will be explained.

[0026] exist Figure 3 The following diagrams show the intersecting Z, X, and Y directions.

[0027] The Z, X, and Y directions are defined based on setting CDU1 to a usable state (hereinafter also referred to as "usage state"). In particular, the Z, X, and Y directions are the up-down, forward-backward, and left-right directions of CDU1 in the usage state.

[0028] One side and the other side in the Z direction are also referred to as Z1 and Z2, respectively. In this embodiment, Z1 and Z2 refer to the upper and lower directions of the cooling system 100 in use.

[0029] The X-direction side and the other side are also referred to as X-direction side X1 and X-direction side X2. In this embodiment, in the CDU1 in use, X-direction side X1 is the direction in which openings 111a and 111b face. X-direction side X2 is the opposite direction of X-direction side X1.

[0030] The Y-direction side and the other side are also referred to as Y-direction side Y1 and Y-direction side Y2. In this embodiment, in the CDU1 in use state, Y-direction side Y1 is the left direction when facing the openings 111a and 111b. Y-direction side Y2 is the opposite direction of Y-direction side Y1.

[0031] exist Figures 2-6 In addition, CDU1 also includes a primary flow path 13, a motor actuator 14, a secondary flow path 15, a heat exchanger 16, a sensor unit 17, an operation unit 18, and a control unit 19 as constituent elements.

[0032] [Primary flow path 13] The primary flow path 13 includes flow path unit 13a, three-way valve 13b, fitting 13c, confluence pipe 13d, and flow path 16c of heat exchanger 16 (described below). The primary flow path 13 is housed within housing 11. The primary flow path 13 is the piping in CDU1 that supplies the primary refrigerant C1.

[0033] The flow path unit 13a has a flow path that connects the primary flow inlet 11a and the inflow port P00 of the three-way valve 13b.

[0034] The three-way valve 13b includes a valve box, a valve core, and a valve stem. The valve box has three ports: an inlet port P00, a first outlet port P01, and a second outlet port P02, which can be connected to a pipe. The valve box also has a cavity. The cavity connects the three ports to each other so that fluid can flow through. The valve core is housed in the cavity. The valve core rotates within the cavity by a force transmitted from the outside via the valve stem. By rotating the valve core, the opening degree D1 of the first outlet port P01 and the opening degree D2 of the second outlet port P02 are adjusted while the opening degree of the inlet port P00 is maintained at a predetermined value V01[%. Specifically, the adjustment is performed so that the sum of the opening degrees D1 and D2 is a predetermined value V02.

[0035] In this embodiment, the opening degrees D1 and D2 are the ratios of the opening area of ​​the port when the valve core moves by any amount to the opening area when the port is fully open. For ease of understanding, the opening degrees D1 and D2 are expressed as percentages. In this case, the specified values ​​V01 and V02 are approximately 80% or more and 120% or less, respectively. The specified values ​​V01 and V02 can be fixed or variable.

[0036] For example, assuming the specified values ​​V01 and V02 are 100%, if the opening degree D1 is 90%, then the opening degree D2 is 10%. Furthermore, if the opening degree D1 is 80%, 60%, 40%, or 20%, then the opening degree D2 is 20%, 40%, 60%, or 80%. By adjusting the opening degrees D1 and D2 in this way, a portion of the primary refrigerant C1 flows through the primary flow path 13 from the three-way valve 13b to the primary outlet 11b via the heat exchanger 16. On the other hand, the remaining portion of the primary refrigerant C1 flows through the primary flow path 13 from the three-way valve 13b to the primary outlet 11b without passing through the heat exchanger 16.

[0037] Fitting 13c connects the first outflow port P01 of the three-way valve 13b to the primary inflow port 16a of the heat exchanger 16.

[0038] The confluence pipe 13d has three ports and flow paths that connect the three ports. The three ports are the first port P11, the second port P12, and the third port P13. The first port P11 is connected to the second outlet port P02 of the three-way valve 13b. The second port P12 is connected to the primary outlet 16b of the heat exchanger 16. The third port P13 is connected to the primary outlet 11b.

[0039] [Motor Actuator 14] The motor actuator 14 has a motor and a connecting rod mechanically connected to the output shaft of the motor. Power from the motor causes the connecting rod to rotate the valve stem of the three-way valve 13b. In addition, in the event of a loss of power supply to CDU1, the motor actuator 14 rotates the valve stem of the three-way valve 13b in such a way that the opening degree D1 of the first outlet port P01 of the three-way valve 13b is 0%.

[0040] [Secondary flow path 15] The secondary flow path 15 includes flow path unit 15a, branch pipe 15b, connectors 15c-15f, pumps 15g and 15h, confluence pipe 15i, and flow path 16f of heat exchanger 16 (described below). The secondary flow path 15 is housed within housing 11. The secondary flow path 15 is the piping for secondary refrigerant C2 in CDU1.

[0041] The flow path unit 15a connects the secondary flow inlet 11c and the secondary flow inlet 16d of the heat exchanger 16.

[0042] The branch pipe 15b has three ports and flow paths that connect the three ports. The three ports are the first port P21, the second port P22, and the third port P23. The first port P21 is connected to the secondary outlet 16e of the heat exchanger 16. The second port P22 is connected to the connector 15c. The third port P23 is connected to the connector 15d.

[0043] The confluence pipe 15i has three ports and flow paths that connect the three ports. The three ports are the first port P31, the second port P32, and the third port P33. The first port P31 is connected to connector 15e. The second port P32 is connected to connector 15f. The third port P33 is connected to the secondary flow outlet 11d.

[0044] Each pump 15g and 15h has a casing, a pump motor, a pump rotor, an inlet, and an outlet. The inlet of each pump 15g and 15h can be connected to either connector 15c or 15d. The outlet of each pump 15g and 15h can be connected to either connector 15e or 15f. Thus, each pump 15g and 15h is connected to the secondary flow path 15.

[0045] With at least one of pumps 15g and 15h connected to the secondary flow path 15, the pump rotor rotates within the housing due to power from the pump motor. As a result, each pump 15g and 15h draws in refrigerant from its own inlet and pumps the drawn-in refrigerant out of its outlet.

[0046] [Heat Exchanger 16] The heat exchanger 16 is, for example, a plate heat exchanger. The heat exchanger 16 has: a plurality of heat transfer plates (i.e., a stack of heat transfer plates) stacked in the same direction; a primary inlet 16a; a primary outlet 16b; a secondary inlet 16d; and a secondary outlet 16e.

[0047] Primary inlet 16a, primary outlet 16b, secondary inlet 16d, and secondary outlet 16e are formed, for example, on a heat transfer plate located at one end of the laminate. Furthermore, a flow path 16c is formed in the laminate for the primary refrigerant C1 to flow between the primary inlet 16a and the primary outlet 16b. A flow path 16f is also formed in the laminate for the secondary refrigerant C2 to flow between the secondary inlet 16d and the secondary outlet 16e.

[0048] In heat exchanger 16, primary refrigerant C1 flows into flow path 16c within the laminate from primary inlet 16a and flows towards primary outlet 16b within the laminate. Secondary refrigerant C2 flows into flow path 16f within the laminate from secondary inlet 16d and flows towards secondary outlet 16e within the laminate.

[0049] Furthermore, within the heat transfer plate stack, the secondary refrigerant C2 and the primary refrigerant C1 flow in a physically isolated state. Each heat transfer plate is made of a material with relatively low thermal resistance. Therefore, heat exchange occurs between the primary refrigerant C1 and the secondary refrigerant C2 within the stack. That is, heat exchanger 16 performs heat exchange between the primary refrigerant C1 and the secondary refrigerant C2. As a result of this heat exchange, the thermal energy of the secondary refrigerant C2 moves towards the primary refrigerant C1. In other words, the secondary refrigerant C2 becomes colder when it flows out of the secondary outlet 16e compared to when it flows into the secondary inlet 16d.

[0050] [Sensor Section 17] The sensor unit 17 includes a pressure sensor 17a, temperature sensors 17b to 17d, and flow sensors 17e and 17f.

[0051] Pressure sensor 17a, temperature sensors 17b-17d, and flow sensors 17e and 17f output signals related to the pressure, temperature, and flow rate of the objects being detected by these sensors to the control unit 19.

[0052] The pressure sensor 17a detects the pressure within the flow path unit 15a.

[0053] Temperature sensor 17b detects the temperature within flow path unit 13a. Temperature sensor 17c detects the temperature near the third port P13 of confluence pipe 13d. Temperature sensor 17d detects the temperature near the third port P33 of confluence pipe 15i.

[0054] Flow sensor 17e detects the flow rate within flow path unit 13a. Flow sensor 17f detects the flow rate near the third port P33 of confluence pipe 15i.

[0055] [Operations Department 18] The operating unit 18 is, for example, a touchscreen. The touchscreen includes a display and a contact sensor.

[0056] [Control Department 19] The control unit 19 includes electronic circuits such as a microcomputer and a memory (not shown). The microcomputer controls the components of the CDU1 according to a program stored in the memory.

[0057] [Main parts of flow path unit 15a] Next, refer to Figures 7-10 The main parts of the flow path unit 15a will be described.

[0058] like Figures 7-10 As shown, the flow path unit 15a includes a main body 151, a first cylinder 152, and a pressure sensor 17a.

[0059] The main body 151 has a first opening 151a, a second opening 151b, and a flow path 151c. The flow path 151c is continuous with the first opening 151a and the second opening 151b, respectively.

[0060] In this embodiment, the first opening 151a is connected to the secondary inlet 11c. That is, the CDU1 has a flow path unit 15a at the inlet (i.e., secondary inlet 11c) of the refrigerant (i.e., secondary refrigerant C2). The first opening 151a and the secondary inlet 11c each face the other direction X2 in the X direction. Furthermore, the second opening 151b is connected to the secondary inlet 16d and faces the other direction Y1 in the Y direction. Figure 4 In the diagram, flow path 151c is indicated by arrow A02.

[0061] In addition, the main body 151 also has a space continuous with the flow path 151c. Figure 7 The storage section 151d (shown as dashed line) serves as the secondary refrigerant C2. Therefore, the storage section 151d is located upstream of the specific heat exchanger 16 and pumps 15g and 15h in the secondary flow path 15. This allows air bubbles contained in the secondary refrigerant C2 to be recovered via the storage section 151d upstream of the specific heat exchanger 16 and pumps 15g and 15h.

[0062] The first cylindrical body 152 extends within the flow path 151c along a first direction intersecting the first opening 151a. In this embodiment, the first direction is the X direction. A plurality of holes 1524 (see reference) are formed in the first cylindrical body 152. Figure 9 In the first cylindrical body 152, the end 1521 on the X2 side in the X direction is connected to the first opening 151a. Furthermore, end 1521 is an example of "one end of the first cylindrical body in the first direction" in this disclosure.

[0063] In detail, multiple holes 1524 penetrate the side wall of the first cylinder 152 in directions intersecting the first direction.

[0064] Alternatively, a cylindrical mesh filter that can be detachably connected to the first cylinder 152 may be further configured on the inner side of the side wall of the first cylinder 152.

[0065] Pressure sensor 17a detects the pressure inside the first cylinder 152. Compared to end 1521 of the first cylinder 152, pressure sensor 17a is disposed in the first cylinder 152 near end 1522 on the X1 side in the X direction.

[0066] Based on the structure of the flow path unit 15a, the replacement period of the first cylinder 152 can be estimated using the signal level of the pressure sensor 17a. Specifically, secondary refrigerant C2 flows into the flow path unit 15a from the first opening 151a, flows within the flow path 151c, and flows out from the second opening 151b. If the secondary refrigerant C2 contains foreign matter of a certain size, this foreign matter is captured by the first cylinder 152. Therefore, as time passes, foreign matter accumulates in the first cylinder 152, eventually requiring replacement. In this embodiment, the pressure drop of the secondary refrigerant C2 in the flow path 151c can be determined using the signal level of the pressure sensor 17a; therefore, the replacement period of the first cylinder 152 can be estimated.

[0067] Furthermore, in flow path unit 15a, the first cylinder 152 is located at the upstream position in flow path 151c. Therefore, foreign matter can be prevented from flowing into heat exchanger 16 and pumps 15g and 15h.

[0068] The main body 151 has a first pipe fitting 1511 and a second pipe fitting 1512.

[0069] In addition to the first opening 151a, the first pipe fitting 1511 also has a bottom wall 1511a and a semi-through hole 1511b formed between the first opening 151a and the bottom wall 1511a.

[0070] The semi-through hole 1511b is a hole in the following manner: the end on the X2 side of the X direction is opened to the X2 side of the X direction through the first opening 151a, and the end on the X1 side of the X direction is closed by the bottom wall 1511a.

[0071] Furthermore, the first pipe fitting 1511 extends along the X direction at a point on the Z2 side, opposite to the storage section 151d in the Z direction. Regarding its dimensions in the Y direction, the first pipe fitting 1511 is smaller than the storage section 151d. The first cylinder 152 is housed within the smaller first pipe fitting 1511 in the Y direction. Therefore, even if the amount of secondary refrigerant C2 in the storage section 151d decreases, the secondary refrigerant C2 can still flow within the first pipe fitting 1511.

[0072] The second pipe 1512 extends from position P51 between the first opening 151a and the bottom wall 1511a in the first pipe 1511. The second pipe 1512 has: a second opening 151b; and a through hole 1512a that is continuous with the semi-through hole 1511b and the second opening 151b, respectively.

[0073] According to the structure of the flow path unit 15a, since there is a pressure sensor 17a on the bottom wall 1511a, the pressure inside the first cylinder 152 can be accurately detected compared to the case where the pressure sensor 17a is outside the bottom wall 1511a.

[0074] The second opening 151b is opposite to the first cylinder 152 in a second direction that intersects the first direction. In this embodiment, the second direction is the Y direction. According to the structure of the flow path unit 15a, the pressure loss of the secondary refrigerant C2 flowing from the first cylinder 152 to the second opening 151b is reduced.

[0075] The second pipe 1512 extends from position P51 along a second direction that intersects the first direction. According to the structure of the flow path unit 15a, since the second pipe 1512 extends along the second direction, the pressure loss of the secondary refrigerant C2 flowing from the first cylinder 152 to the second opening 151b is reduced.

[0076] The flow path unit 15a also includes a support portion 153. The support portion 153 supports the first cylinder 152 at a position separated from the first pipe fitting 1511. Specifically, the support portion 153 is located between the first cylinder 152 and the first pipe fitting 1511, thereby enabling the first cylinder 152 to be separated from the first pipe fitting 1511.

[0077] According to the structure of the flow path unit 15a, the foreign matter collection performance of the first cylinder 152 is improved. Specifically, assuming the first cylinder 152 is not separated from the first pipe 1511, it is difficult to collect foreign matter through the first cylinder 152. However, as with the flow path unit 15a, by using the support portion 153 to separate the first cylinder 152 from the first pipe 1511, the secondary refrigerant C2 flows between the first cylinder 152 and the first pipe 1511. Therefore, it is easier to collect foreign matter through the first cylinder 152.

[0078] The support portion 153 has a second cylinder 1531 located between the bottom wall 1511a and the end 1522 of the first cylinder 152. The second cylinder 1531 is mounted on the bottom wall 1511a. The second cylinder 1531 contacts the inner surface 1523 of the first cylinder 152. The pressure sensor 17a has a pressure-receiving portion 171a inside the second cylinder 1531. According to the flow path unit 15a, the secondary refrigerant C2 can be guided to the pressure-receiving portion 171a of the pressure sensor 17a. Therefore, the pressure in the flow path 151c can be detected more accurately. In addition, the pressure-receiving portion 171a is the part of the pressure sensor 17a that receives the pressure as the object of detection.

[0079] In the second cylinder 1531, there is a portion whose inner diameter increases the further away from the bottom wall 1511a. According to the flow path unit 15a, the pressure received by the pressure-bearing part 171a increases, thus making it easier to detect the pressure within the flow path 151c.

[0080] [Main parts of casing 11] like Figure 11 As shown, the shell 11 has a generally rectangular shape, being thinner in the Z direction and longer in the X direction. The shell 11 has plates 111 to 115. Plates 111 to 115 define the shape of the shell 11. Plates 111 to 115 separate the internal space 11A of the shell 11 from the external space.

[0081] Plate 111 extends along the Y and Z directions at the X1 side end of the housing 11 in the X direction.

[0082] Plate 112 extends from the Y1 side of plate 111 in the Y direction to the X2 side in the X direction, and extends along both the X and Z directions. Plate 113 extends from the Y2 side of plate 111 in the Y direction to the X2 side in the X direction, and extends along both the X and Z directions. Plates 112 and 113 are located at positions that are separated from each other in the Y direction.

[0083] Plate 114 extends from the Z1 side of plate 111 in the Z direction to the X2 side in the X direction, and extends along both the X and Y directions. Plate 115 extends from the Z2 side of plate 111 in the Z direction to the X2 side in the X direction, and extends along both the X and Y directions. Plates 114 and 115 are located separately from each other in the Z direction.

[0084] Two openings 111a and 111b are formed at different locations in plate 111. That is, housing 11 has openings 111a and 111b. Alternatively, the number of openings may be more than two. Openings 111a and 111b are approximately rectangular in shape when viewed from above in the X direction. Openings 111a and 111b open towards the X direction X1 and are continuous with the internal space 11A of housing 11. Opening 111a is located in the Y direction Y1 with opening 111b as a reference. Guides (not shown) for pumps 15g and 15h that can be inserted and removed through openings 111a and 111b are provided in the internal space 11A.

[0085] like Figure 11 , Figure 12 As shown, each pump 15g and 15h can move along the X direction within the internal space 11A through either of the openings 111a and 111b.

[0086] In detail, when pumps 15g and 15h are inserted, they are guided by an external force applied by a person through either opening 111a or 111b within the internal space 11A to move in the opposite direction X2 in the X direction. Pumps 15g and 15h are installed in a pre-defined installation position within the internal space 11A.

[0087] Viewed from opening 111a, connectors 15c and 15e are located at a depth of X2 on the other side of the X direction of the internal space 11A. Viewed from opening 111b, connectors 15d and 15f are located at a depth of X2 on the other side of the X direction of the internal space 11A.

[0088] When one of pumps 15g and 15h is installed in the internal space 11A through opening 111a, the inlet and outlet of pump 15g and 15h are connected to connectors 15c and 15e, respectively. As a result, secondary refrigerant C2 can flow into one of pumps 15g and 15h through connector 15c, and secondary refrigerant C2 can flow out of one of pumps 15g and 15h through connector 15e. Similarly, when one of pumps 15g and 15h is installed in the internal space 11A through opening 111b, the inlet and outlet of pump 15g and 15h are connected to connectors 15d and 15f, respectively.

[0089] In addition, each pump 15g and 15h is fixed to the housing 11 by a fixing structure described later.

[0090] On the other hand, when removing pumps 15g and 15h, firstly, the fixing to the housing 11 is released. Then, an external force in the X direction X1 is manually applied to pumps 15g and 15h. As a result, pumps 15g and 15h move from the internal space 11A in the X direction X1. During this process, the inlet and outlet of each pump 15g and 15h are removed from the connectors 15c to 15f, respectively. Then, pumps 15g and 15h are guided in the X direction X1 within the internal space 11A and removed through openings 111a and 111b.

[0091] [Fixed structure for pumps 15g and 15h] Figure 11 In the housing 11, there are stops 116a and 116b. Stops 116a and 116b are disposed at opposite positions in the Y direction around the periphery of the opening 111a. Stop 116a is located at one Y1 side end in the Y direction and approximately at the center in the Z direction around the periphery of the opening 111a. At this position, stop 116a is a small plate extending in both the Y and Z directions. Stop 116b is located on the opposite side in the Y direction around the periphery of the opening 111a and is a small plate of approximately the same size as stop 116a.

[0092] In addition, the housing 11 also has the same stops 116c and 116d as the stops 116a and 116b around the opening 111b.

[0093] like Figure 12 , Figure 13 As shown, pumps 15g and 15h each have a pump housing 181, a plate 182, a rod 183, claws 184a and 184b, and a claw moving mechanism 185.

[0094] The pump housing 181 is a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape that is relatively long in the X direction, and has dimensions in the Z, X, and Y directions that allow it to be inserted and removed from the housing 11 through openings 111a and 111b. The pump housing 181 houses the internal flow path of the secondary refrigerant C2, the pump rotor, and the pump motor. The pump housing 181 has a suction port 181a and a discharge port 181b on the X2 side of the X direction.

[0095] Plate 182 is fixedly mounted to one end (X1) of pump housing 181 in the X direction. Pump housing 181 has plate 182. In this embodiment, plate 182 is thinner in the X direction and extends in both the Z and Y directions. Plate 182 is generally rectangular in shape when viewed from above in the X direction. The dimensions of plate 182 in each of the Z and Y directions are approximately the same as the dimensions of openings 111a and 111b in each of the Z and Y directions.

[0096] The plate 182 has a slit 182a. The slit 182a extends from near one end of the plate 182 in the Z direction Z1 to the other end in the Z direction Z2.

[0097] like Figure 13 As shown, the rod 183 is a rod that is relatively thin in the Y direction and relatively long in the Z direction. The rod 183 has a first end 183a, a first portion 183b, a second portion 183c, a third portion 183d, a second end 183e, a first shaft 183f, and a second shaft 183g.

[0098] exist Figure 13In the state where pumps 15g and 15h are installed, the first end 183a is located on the X-direction X2 side, which is closer to the Z1 side of the slit 182a than the Z1 side. The first portion 183b extends from the first end 183a toward the Z1 side of the slit 182a and is physically connected to the second portion 183c. The second portion 183c protrudes through the slit 182a to a position closer to the X1 side of the plate 182 than the Z1 side. The second portion 183c extends toward the Z2 side of the plate 182 on the X1 side and is physically connected to the third portion 183d. The third portion 183d extends along the plate 182 toward the Z2 side on the X1 side. The periphery of the third portion 183d bends toward the plate 182 on the Z2 side and reaches the second end 183e. The second end 183e is fitted into the hole 182b, which is formed near the Z2 end of the plate 182 in the Z direction. Hereinafter, the position of the rod 183 with the second end 183e fitted into the hole 182b is also referred to as the "rod mounting position".

[0099] The first shaft 183f protrudes from the first part 183b near the first end 183a to a position relative to both Y1 and Y2 of the rod 183 in the Y direction.

[0100] The second shaft 183g protrudes from the point where the first part 183b and the second part 183c are physically connected, extending to a position closer to both Y1 and Y2 of the rod 183 in the Y direction.

[0101] On the X2 side of plate 182, opposite to the X direction, near the Z1 end of slit 182a in the Z direction, a bearing 182c is provided. The bearing 182c supports the second shaft 183g so that it can rotate about an axis along the Y direction (refer to arrow A21). Thus, rod 183 is supported on plate 182.

[0102] Furthermore, claws 184a and 184b are positioned on the X2 side of plate 182 in the opposite direction of the X direction, further in the opposite direction of the Z direction than slit 182a, and are located near the end of Y1 in the Y direction and near the end of Y2 in the opposite direction of the Y direction. During the installation of pumps 15g and 15h, claws 184a and 184b engage with stops 116a and 116b. This prevents pumps 15g and 15h from detaching from housing 11 during installation.

[0103] The claw movement mechanism 185 is realized by a cam and a connecting rod, and is located on the X2 side of the plate 182 in the opposite X direction. By manually rotating the rod 183 from its rod mounting position in the Z direction (also refer to arrow A21), the claws 184a and 184b are released from their engaged state with the stops 116a and 116b. As a result, the pumps 15g and 15h can be removed from the housing 11.

[0104] Based on the fixing structure of pumps 15g and 15h, the operator rotates the rod 183 protruding from the center of plate 182 in the Y direction. Correspondingly, the claws 184a and 184b on both sides of pumps 15g and 15h engage with the stops 116a and 116b of housing 11. Therefore, compared to the case where only one side of the claws in the Y direction engages with housing 11, pumps 15g and 15h can be stably fixed to housing 11. That is, a CDU1 with superior usability can be provided.

[0105] [Fixing structure of rod 183] like Figure 13 , Figure 14 As shown, pumps 15g and 15h also have a fixing structure for rod 183.

[0106] Rod 183 can be used at arrow A21 (see reference) Figure 13 The second shaft 183g, as shown, is supported on the plate 182 in a manner that allows it to rotate circumferentially around its axis. A hole 183f, parallel to the second shaft 183g, is formed at the second end 183e of the rod 183.

[0107] The retaining pin 182d is supported around the hole 182b in the plate 182 via a mounting member 182c, which is part of the fixing structure of the rod 183. The retaining pin 182d is a so-called spring-loaded pin and has a handle, a pin, and a spring. The pin is protruded and retracted from the mounting member 182c by the spring force and an external force applied by the user. When the handle is pulled, the pin retracts further than the mounting member 182c against the force of the spring. The pin is inserted into the hole 183f at the second end 183e. Thus, the rod 183 will not detach from the plate 182. Furthermore, before removing the pumps 15g and 15h, if the handle is pulled, the pin will disengage from the hole 183f, and the rod 183 can rotate. The fixing structure of the rod 183 prevents the pumps 15g and 15h from easily detaching from the housing 11. Thus, the usability of the CDU1 is improved.

[0108] [Guide rails 112b, 112c, handle 112d] Figure 3In the case of CDU1, a groove 112a is provided on the plate 112 of the housing 11. The groove 112a has a rectangular shape that is longer in the X direction when viewed from the Y direction. The groove 112a is recessed from the plate 112 in the opposite direction Y2. The groove 112a extends in the X direction between the X2 side end of the plate 112 and a position that is further away from the X1 side end in the opposite direction X2.

[0109] Guide rails 112b and 112c are located on the Z1-facing side and the Z2-facing side of the groove 112a, respectively. Guide rails 112b and 112c are, for example, connected to the frame 9 (see reference). Figure 1 The guide rail (not shown) prepared in the picture is engaged.

[0110] CDU1 has a handle 112d in a groove 112a. The handle 112d is supported in the groove 112a in a manner that allows it to rotate about an axis along the X direction. When the operator is not moving CDU1, the handle 112d is in use at a position Y2 opposite to the plate 112 in the Y direction and does not protrude to a position Y1 opposite to the plate 112 in the Y direction. On the other hand, when the operator is moving CDU1, the handle 112d rotates about the axis and protrudes to a position Y1 opposite to the plate 112 in the Y direction. Thus, the operator moves CDU1 by holding the handle 112d.

[0111] Figure 12 In this embodiment, CDU1 has a groove 113a on the plate 113 of the housing 11. The groove 113a may be symmetrical in shape to the groove 112a in the Y direction. Therefore, a detailed description of the groove 113a is omitted.

[0112] Similar to guide rails 112b and 112c, guide rails 113b and 113c are located on the Z1 side of the groove 113a facing the Z direction and the Z2 side facing the Z direction.

[0113] CDU1 has a handle 113d in the groove 113a that is identical to the handle 112d. The handle 113d may be in a shape that is approximately symmetrical to the handle 112d in the Y direction. Therefore, a detailed description of the handle 113d is omitted.

[0114] When the CDU1 is not being moved, the handles 112d and 113d remain in the recesses 112a and 113a, respectively. Therefore, when the CDU1 is stored in the rack 9, the handles 112d and 113d do not interfere with the rack 9. As a result, it is easy to store the CDU1 in the rack 9. That is, a CDU1 with excellent usability can be provided.

[0115] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments and can be implemented in various ways without departing from its spirit. Furthermore, multiple structural elements disclosed in the above embodiments can be appropriately modified. For example, one of the structural elements shown in one embodiment can be added to the structural elements of another embodiment, or several structural elements shown in one embodiment can be deleted from the embodiment.

[0116] Furthermore, to facilitate understanding of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings are schematically illustrated with each structural element as the main body. For ease of drawing, the thickness, length, number, spacing, etc., of each structural element in the illustrations may sometimes differ from the actual dimensions. Moreover, the structures of each structural element shown in the above embodiments are examples and are not particularly limited; various modifications can be made without substantially departing from the effects of this disclosure, which is self-evident.

[0117] [Other variations] The operating part 18 can be housed within the housing 11. However, it is not limited to this; to allow the operator access to the interior of the housing 11, the operating part 18 can also be opened and closed relative to the housing 11. Specifically, an opening is formed in the plate 111 on the Y-direction side, Y1, which is closer to the openings 111a and 111b. The operating part 18 can open and close the opening by rotating about a rotation axis provided around the periphery of the opening. Alternatively, the operating part 18 can also be configured to open and close the opening by moving through the opening in the X-direction, similar to the pumps 15g and 15h.

[0118] [Postscript] In addition, this technology can adopt the following structure.

[0119] (1) A flow path unit, comprising: The main body has flow paths that are continuous with the first opening and the second opening, respectively; A first cylindrical body extends within the flow path along a first direction intersecting the first opening and has a plurality of holes formed therein; and The sensor detects the pressure inside the first cylinder. One end of the first cylinder in the first direction is connected to the first opening. The sensor is located near the other end of the first cylinder, rather than at one end of the first cylinder.

[0120] (2) Based on the flow path unit described in (1), the main body has: A first pipe fitting has the first opening, a bottom wall, and a semi-through hole formed between the first opening and the bottom wall; and A second pipe fitting extends from the first opening in the first pipe fitting between the first opening and the bottom wall, and has a second opening and a through hole that is continuous with the semi-through hole and the second opening, respectively. The first cylindrical body is disposed in the semi-through hole. The sensor is mounted on the bottom wall.

[0121] (3) Based on the flow path unit described in (1) or (2), the second opening is opposite to the first cylinder in a second direction that intersects with the first direction.

[0122] (4) Based on the flow path unit described in (2) or (3), the second pipe extends from the position in a second direction that intersects the first direction.

[0123] (5) Based on the flow path unit described in any of (2) to (4), it has a support portion that supports the first cylinder at a position separate from the first pipe.

[0124] (6) Based on the flow path unit described in (4) or (5), the support portion has a second cylindrical body located between the bottom wall and the end of the first cylindrical body. The second cylinder is mounted on the bottom wall and contacts the inner surface of the first cylinder. The sensor has a pressure-receiving part on the inner side of the second cylinder.

[0125] (7) Based on the flow path unit described in (5) or (6), the second cylinder has a portion with a larger inner diameter as it moves further away from the bottom wall.

[0126] (8) A refrigerant circulation device having a flow path unit as described in any one of (1) to (7) at the refrigerant inlet. Symbol Explanation

[0127] 1. Refrigerant circulation device 15a Flow Path Unit 151 Main Body 151a First Opening 151b Second Opening 151c flow path 1511 First fitting 1511a Bottom wall 1511b Semi-through hole 1512 Second fitting 1512a Through Hole 152 First cylinder 1524 holes 1521 end (one end) 153 Support section 1531 Second cylinder 17a Pressure Sensor 171a Pressure-bearing section.

Claims

1. A flow path unit, characterized in that, have: The main body has flow paths that are continuous with the first opening and the second opening, respectively; A first cylindrical body extends within the flow path along a first direction intersecting the first opening and has a plurality of holes formed therein; as well as The sensor detects the pressure inside the first cylinder. One end of the first cylinder in the first direction is connected to the first opening. The sensor is located near the other end of the first cylinder, rather than at one end of the first cylinder.

2. The flow path unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The subject has: A first pipe fitting, the first pipe fitting having the first opening, a bottom wall and a semi-through hole formed between the first opening and the bottom wall; as well as A second pipe fitting extends from the first opening in the first pipe fitting between the first opening and the bottom wall, and has a second opening and a through hole that is continuous with both the semi-through hole and the second opening. The first cylindrical body is disposed in the semi-through hole. The sensor is mounted on the bottom wall.

3. The flow path unit according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The second opening is opposite to the first cylinder in a second direction that intersects with the first direction.

4. The flow path unit according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second pipe extends from the said position in a second direction that intersects the first direction.

5. The flow path unit according to claim 2, characterized in that, It has a support portion that supports the first cylinder at a position separate from the first pipe fitting.

6. The flow path unit according to claim 5, characterized in that, The support portion has a second cylindrical body, which is located between the bottom wall and the end of the first cylindrical body. The second cylinder is mounted on the bottom wall and contacts the inner surface of the first cylinder. The sensor has a pressure-receiving part on the inner side of the second cylinder.

7. The flow path unit according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second cylinder has a portion with a larger inner diameter the further away from the bottom wall.

8. A refrigerant circulation device, characterized in that, The refrigerant inlet has the flow path unit as described in claim 1 or 2.

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