Heat exchanger

Abstract

The invention provides a heat exchanger which can be arranged in a small arrangement space in the vertical direction and can be easily assembled. The present invention is provided with: a plurality of heat exchange modules (1) having a heat exchange flow path (Da) formed therein by overlapping and joining a plurality of metal plates, a supply port (1f) for feeding a fluid (F) to the heat exchange flow path (Da), and a discharge port (1e) for discharging the fluid (F) from the heat exchange flow path (Da); a supply flow path assembly (2) that is joined to each of the plurality of heat exchange assemblies (1) and supplies the fluid (F) from the respective supply ports (1f) of the plurality of heat exchange assemblies (1); and a discharge flow path assembly (3) which is joined to each of the plurality of heat exchange assemblies (1) and discharges the fluid (F) from the respective discharge ports (1e) of the plurality of heat exchange assemblies (1), in which a flow path through which the fluid flows is formed in at least one of the supply flow path assembly and the discharge flow path assembly by overlapping and joining the plurality of metal plates.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a heat exchanger. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 shows a power battery thermal management system, which is a heat exchanger 100. It has a cooling pipe 102 connected to both ends of the long side of a plurality of water-cooled plates 101 arranged in a row, and performs heat exchange by supplying and draining water to these cooling pipes 102.

[0003] According to Patent Document 1, water supply and discharge are achieved by connecting a water intake pipe 200 and an outlet pipe 300 to a pair of cold collection pipes 102 via a connector 402, a three-way valve 400, a rubber hose 401, etc.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Chinese Utility Model No. 207303288 Specification

[0007] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] For example, in battery electric vehicles (BEVs), since the battery, which is located on the underside of the floor, is housed in a relatively small vertical space, it is desirable that the heat exchanger cooling the battery is also thin.

[0009] In contrast, in the heat exchanger described in Patent Document 1, tubular cooling collection pipes 102 are connected to both ends of a plurality of water-cooled plates 101 arranged in an array. Water intake pipes 200 and outlet pipes 300 are connected to connectors 105 connected to both ends of the cooling collection pipes 102 via joints 402, three-way valves 400, rubber hoses 401, etc. Therefore, the increased vertical dimensions of the heat exchanger not only lead to an increase in the number of components but also complicate the assembly process.

[0010] In addition, since the multiple water-cooled plates 101 shown in Patent Document 1 have a common structure, the configuration space can be reduced. However, since the cooling pipes 102 connected to both ends of the multiple water-cooled plates 101 are tubular with an outer diameter larger than the thickness of the water-cooled plates 101, it is difficult to reduce the configuration space. Summary of the Invention

[0011] For this reason, a heat exchanger that can be configured in a small vertical space and is easy to assemble is required.

[0012] Technical means for solving technical problems

[0013] The heat exchanger of the present invention is characterized by a fluid flow for heat exchange with a battery mounted in a vehicle. The heat exchanger comprises: a plurality of heat exchange components, each having a heat exchange flow path, a supply port, and a discharge port; the heat exchange flow path is formed internally by overlapping and joining a plurality of metal plates; the supply port delivers the fluid to the heat exchange flow path; and the discharge port discharges the fluid from the heat exchange flow path; a supply flow path assembly, which is respectively connected to the plurality of heat exchange components and supplies the fluid from the respective supply ports of the plurality of heat exchange components; and a discharge flow path assembly, which is respectively connected to the plurality of heat exchange components and discharges the fluid from the respective discharge ports of the plurality of heat exchange components. At least one of the supply flow path assembly and the discharge flow path assembly has a flow path for fluid flow formed internally by overlapping and joining a plurality of metal plates.

[0014] According to this structure, fluid supplied from the supply flow path assembly flows to multiple heat exchange components and is discharged from the discharge flow path assembly. Through this fluid flow, heat exchange between the battery and the fluid in the heat exchange components achieves battery temperature regulation. This heat exchanger enables fluid supply by joining the supply flow path assembly and the heat exchange components, and enables fluid discharge by joining the heat exchange components and the discharge flow path assembly. Therefore, for example, compared to structures using connectors and piping for fluid supply and discharge, the vertical dimension can be shortened, saving space, reducing the number of components, and simplifying the assembly process. Thus, a heat exchanger that can be configured in a small vertical space and is easy to assemble is constructed. Furthermore, as the supply flow path assembly or the discharge flow path assembly, for example, a pipe can be formed by joining a metal plate with an upwardly convex arc-shaped cross-section and a metal plate with a downwardly convex circular hole-shaped cross-section using techniques such as welding. In such a pipe system composed of overlapping metal plates, it is easy to form a flow path with a compressed flow path profile in the vertical direction, which can shorten the overall vertical dimensions of the heat exchanger A. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a 3D diagram of a heat exchanger.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a top view showing the flow of coolant in a heat exchange assembly.

[0017] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Sectional view along line III-III.

[0018] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 Sectional view along line IV-IV.

[0019] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 VV-line sectional view.

[0020] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 Sectional view along line VI-VI.

[0021] Figure 7 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the heat exchange assembly in another embodiment (f).

[0022] Figure 8 This is an enlarged perspective view of the heat exchange assembly in another embodiment (f).

[0023] Figure 9 This is a top view of a heat exchange assembly as part of another implementation (g).

[0024] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 XX-line sectional view.

[0025] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 Sectional view along line XI-XI.

[0026] Figure 12 yes Figure 9 Sectional view along line XII-XII.

[0027] Figure 13 yes Figure 9 Sectional view along line XIII-XIII.

[0028] Figure 14 yes Figure 9 Sectional view along line XIV-XIV.

[0029] Figure 15 yes Figure 9 XV-XV line sectional view.

[0030] Symbol Explanation

[0031] A: Heat exchanger, B: Battery, Da: Heat exchange flow path, F: Coolant (fluid), V: Vehicle, 1: Heat exchange assembly, 1f: Supply port, 1e: Discharge port, J: Connection assembly, 2: Supply flow path assembly, 3: Discharge flow path assembly, 11: Upper heat exchange plate (heat exchange wall), 12: Lower heat exchange plate (bottom wall). Detailed Implementation

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of the heat exchanger according to the present invention will be described based on the accompanying drawings. In this embodiment, as an example of heat exchanger A, a structure for temperature management of battery B of vehicle V is described. However, the embodiments described below are not limited to, and various modifications can be made without departing from their spirit.

[0033] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0034] (Basic Structure)

[0035] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, a heat exchanger A is constituted by having multiple (four in this embodiment) heat exchange components 1, a single supply flow path component 2, a single discharge flow path component 3, a supply path 4, and a discharge path 5. The supply path 4 and the discharge path 5 are configured as an integrated connecting component J in such a way that the retaining bracket 6 is arranged in the center.

[0036] The connecting assembly J has a supply port 4P for supplying coolant F (an example of a fluid) to the upstream end of the supply path 4, and a discharge port 5P for discharging coolant F (a fluid) from the downstream end of the discharge path 5. The coolant F is composed of cooling water such as long-life coolant (LLC) or insulating oil such as paraffin-based fluid. Alternatively, it can be a refrigerant such as hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) or hydrofluoroolefin (HFO).

[0037] In this embodiment, heat exchanger A is located at the bottom of the battery storage space on the lower side of the floor in the battery electric vehicle (BEV). Figure 1 As shown, battery B houses multiple battery cells Ba in a row inside the casing Bc. Thus, by arranging battery B, which houses multiple battery cells Ba within the casing Bc, in the battery storage space, the temperature of the multiple battery cells Ba is regulated using the coolant F (fluid) flowing through the heat exchange assembly 1.

[0038] In this embodiment, heat exchanger A is used as Figure 1 The posture configuration is shown. Based on this positional relationship, the vertical direction shown in the figure is defined as the vertical direction Z, the long side direction of heat exchange component 1 is defined as the long side direction X, and the arrangement direction of heat exchange component 1 is defined as the arrangement direction Y.

[0039] The heat exchange assembly 1, the supply flow path assembly 2, the discharge flow path assembly 3, the supply path 4, and the discharge path 5 are all formed using metal materials with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum. In the heat exchanger A, the supply flow path assembly 2 and the discharge flow path assembly 3 are joined to the heat exchange assembly 1 by welding so that the coolant F (fluid) can flow through.

[0040] Similarly, the supply path 4 is welded to the supply flow path assembly 2 so that coolant F (fluid) can flow through it, and the discharge path 5 is welded to the discharge flow path assembly 3 so that coolant F (fluid) can flow through it.

[0041] Coolant F (fluid) flows in the following order: supply port 4P, supply path 4, supply flow path assembly 2, multiple heat exchange assemblies 1, discharge flow path assembly 3, and discharge path 5, and is discharged to the outside from discharge port 5P. Heat exchanger A supplies low-temperature coolant F when heat dissipation from battery B is required. Heat exchanger A supplies coolant F that aims to raise the temperature of battery B when its temperature decreases.

[0042] (Heat exchange assembly)

[0043] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, heat exchanger A has multiple (four in this embodiment) heat exchange components 1 of the same shape arranged at predetermined intervals along the arrangement direction Y. Each heat exchange component 1 has a pair of heat exchange sections Hc that appear as strips when viewed from above, arranged in a parallel posture, and each heat exchange section Hc forms a heat exchange flow path Da for the flow of coolant F.

[0044] like Figure 2 As shown, multiple heat exchange components 1 form a supply port 1f at one end in the long side direction X and an outlet 1e at the other end. These supply ports 1f and outlets 1e are connected to the heat exchange flow path Da of the heat exchange section Hc.

[0045] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, the width of the battery cell Ba is approximately the same as the width W of the heat exchange section extending to the outer ends of the pair of heat exchange sections Hc. Electrodes (positive and negative electrodes) are disposed near both ends of the battery cell Ba in the width direction. During charging and discharging, significant heat is generated in the region near each electrode. Therefore, to effectively dissipate this heat, the pair of heat exchange sections Hc are positioned near the bottom surfaces of the pair of electrodes of the battery cell Ba.

[0046] like Figures 1-6 As shown, the heat exchange assembly 1 is respectively disposed at opposite positions on the upper heat exchange plate 11 (an example of a heat exchange wall) and the lower heat exchange plate 12 (bottom wall), which are formed by stamping aluminum sheets, and is formed by welding. Thus, a heat exchange flow path Da is formed in the region from the supply port 1f to the discharge port 1e, which allows the coolant F to flow.

[0047] The heat exchange upper plate 11 (heat exchange wall) is integrally formed with a pair of upper side plates 11a and an upper side end plate portion 11b. The pair of upper side plates 11a are arranged in the Y direction corresponding to the pair of heat exchange portions Hc. The upper side end plate portion 11b connects the two ends of the pair of upper side plates 11a in the X direction of the long side.

[0048] In addition, the heat exchange lower plate 12 (bottom wall) is integrally formed with a pair of lower side plates 12a and a lower connecting plate 12b. When viewed from above, the pair of lower side plates 12a are arranged in the arrangement direction Y corresponding to a pair of heat exchange parts Hc. The lower connecting plate 12b connects multiple parts of the pair of lower side plates 12a at both ends and in the middle of the long side direction X.

[0049] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 As shown, the upper side plate 11a has an upwardly protruding ridge 11T. The lower side plate 12a is positioned below the upper side plate 11a, and has upwardly protruding ridges 12T formed at multiple locations in the Y-direction. Figure 2 As shown, the protrusion 12T is formed along the long side direction X of the lower side plate 12a, forming a heat exchange flow path Da between the upper side plate 11a and the lower side plate 12a.

[0050] like Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 As shown, the lower side plate 12a has a supply port 1f and a discharge port 1e at both ends in the long side direction X.

[0051] like Figure 5 As shown, according to this structure, the upper side plate 11a and the lower side plate 12a are joined by welding at their contact points, thereby dividing the internal space of the heat exchange assembly 1 and forming a heat exchange flow path Da. Furthermore, in these figures, the plates are joined by welding at their contact points, but only at the points where the plates abut each other. Figure 5 The welded part is represented by We.

[0052] like Figure 2 As shown, when viewed from above, the heat exchange flow path Da causes the coolant F supplied from the supply port 1f to be turned back towards the supply port 1f near the outlet 1e. This turned-back coolant F then flows further towards the outlet 1e near the supply port 1f and is discharged from the outlet 1e. Thus, by setting the flow path shape of the heat exchange flow path Da, the coolant F flows over a distance longer than the distance that would straighten the supply port 1f and the outlet 1e, achieving heat exchange without waste.

[0053] In addition, the flow path shape of the heat exchange flow path Da can also be set such that, when viewed from above, the coolant F flows in a sawtooth pattern and branches out in multiple parallel flow paths.

[0054] (Supply path components)

[0055] like Figure 4As shown, the supply flow path assembly 2 is joined by welding the supply-side upper plate 14 and the supply-side lower plate 15, which are respectively stamped from aluminum sheets. The supply flow path assembly 2 formed by this joining has the following structure: an inlet portion 2f is formed at one end of the supply-side upper plate 14 in the Y-direction, forming a flow path space for the coolant F supplied from the inlet portion 2f to flow, and the other end in the Y-direction is closed.

[0056] The cross-sectional shape of the supply flow path component 2 is set to be a rectangle with a horizontal dimension larger than the vertical dimension, or a non-circular shape such as an ellipse that is compressed in the vertical direction, thereby suppressing the expansion of the vertical dimension Z.

[0057] In addition, the supply-side upper plate 14 is provided with a plurality of connecting holes FH. With the connecting holes FH positioned to coincide with the supply port 1f of the heat exchange assembly 1, the upper surface of the supply-side upper plate 14 is joined to the bottom surface of the lower side plate 12a of the heat exchange assembly 1 by welding.

[0058] Therefore, the supply flow path assembly 2 is configured to supply the flowing coolant F from the connecting hole FH through the supply port 1f to the heat exchange flow path Da. For example... Figure 2 , Figure 4 As shown, the opening cross-sectional area of ​​the supply port 1f is set to be larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the connecting hole FH.

[0059] (Discharge path assembly)

[0060] like Figure 6 As shown, the discharge flow path assembly 3 is formed by welding together the discharge side upper plate 16 and the discharge side lower plate 17, which are respectively stamped from aluminum sheet. The discharge flow path assembly 3 formed by this joining has the following structure: a discharge part 3e is formed at one end of the discharge side upper plate 16 in one of the arrangement directions, forming a flow path space for coolant F to flow to the discharge part 3e, and the other end in the arrangement direction is closed.

[0061] The discharge flow path assembly 3 is similar to the supply flow path assembly 2 described earlier, and its cross-sectional shape is set to be a rectangle with a horizontal dimension larger than its vertical dimension, or a non-circular shape such as an ellipse that is compressed in the vertical direction, thereby suppressing the expansion of the vertical dimension Z.

[0062] In addition, the upper plate 16 on the discharge side is formed with a plurality of discharge side openings EH. With the discharge side openings EH arranged in a position that coincides with the discharge port 1e of the heat exchange assembly 1, the upper surface of the upper plate 16 on the discharge side is joined to the bottom surface of the lower plate 12a of the heat exchange assembly 1 by welding.

[0063] Thus, the discharge flow path assembly 3 is configured to allow the coolant F discharged from the outlet 1e of the heat exchange assembly 1 to flow through the outlet 1e to the discharge side opening EH and be discharged into the discharge flow path assembly 3.

[0064] (Supply route / Discharge route)

[0065] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 As shown, the supply path 4 is joined by welding so that one end communicates with the inlet portion 2f of the supply flow path assembly 2. Similarly, the discharge path 5 is joined by welding so that one end communicates with the discharge portion 3e of the discharge flow path assembly 3.

[0066] In addition, the supply path 4 and the discharge path 5 form a single upper feed plate 18 and a single lower feed plate 19, which are formed by stamping aluminum sheets respectively, through welding, thereby forming a coaxial flow path along the long side direction X.

[0067] The retaining bracket 6 is formed as an area where an upper bracket portion integrally formed with the upper feed plate 18 and a lower bracket portion formed with the lower feed plate 19 are integrated by welding. The retaining bracket 6 thus formed has a supply port 4P and a discharge port 5P.

[0068] (Effects of the implementation method)

[0069] Thus, the heat exchange assembly 1 of heat exchanger A is a structure in which stamped aluminum sheets are overlapped and joined by welding. Therefore, compared with heat exchange assembly 1 that uses metal tubes to form the heat exchange flow path Da, it is not necessary to increase the diameter of the metal tubes in order to increase the flow rate of the coolant F (fluid).

[0070] Therefore, the height of heat exchanger A will not be increased or its size enlarged in order to improve heat conversion performance. In addition, the supply flow path assembly 2 and the discharge flow path assembly 3 of the heat exchanger A are respectively made by welding and stamping aluminum plates, so that the cross-sectional shape can be set as a rectangle with a horizontal dimension larger than the vertical dimension, or a non-circular shape such as an ellipse that is compressed in the vertical direction, thereby suppressing the expansion of the vertical dimension Z.

[0071] Furthermore, the heat exchanger A connects the heat exchange component 1 and the supply flow path component 2 by welding, and connects the heat exchange component 1 and the discharge flow path component 3 by welding. Therefore, it eliminates the need for connectors, hoses, etc. for transferring coolant F, thereby reducing the vertical dimensions and the number of components.

[0072] In particular, the heat exchanger A can use a common structure as multiple heat exchange components 1, so the number of heat exchange components 1 can be set according to the size of the object being cooled, thus improving versatility.

[0073] (Other implementation methods)

[0074] In addition to the embodiments described above, the present invention may also be configured as follows (structures having the same functions as those in the embodiments are labeled with the same numbers and symbols as those in the embodiments).

[0075] (a) In the above embodiment, the heat exchange assembly 1 is composed of a pair of heat exchange sections Hc, but it can also be composed of a single heat exchange section Hc or three or more heat exchange sections Hc.

[0076] (b) At least one of the supply flow path assembly 2 and the discharge flow path assembly 3 is formed of a hose or tubular component. That is, by using a hose or tubular component at the part of the supply flow path assembly 2 that is away from the arrangement direction Y, it is possible to suppress the expansion of the dimension in the vertical direction Z, and it is possible to use hoses or the like that which are commercially available as finished products.

[0077] (c) The supply flow path assembly 2 is constructed by connecting the spaces of the ends with supply ports 1f of the heat exchange assemblies 1 located at adjacent positions to each other so that the coolant F flows between them. The supply flow path assembly 2 of this structure omits the construction of the supply side upper plate 14 by using a part of the space of the heat exchange assembly 1 as the supply flow path assembly 2, but reduces the material constituting the supply flow path assembly 2, which can achieve weight reduction and shorten the vertical dimensions of the heat exchanger A.

[0078] (d) The discharge flow path assembly 3 is constructed by connecting the spaces of the ends of the heat exchange assemblies 1 located at adjacent positions with the outlet 1e to each other so that the coolant F flows between them. The discharge flow path assembly 3 of this structure omits the upper plate 16 on the discharge side by using a portion of the space of the heat exchange assembly 1 as the discharge flow path assembly 3, but reduces the material constituting the discharge flow path assembly 3, thereby achieving weight reduction and shortening the vertical dimensions of the heat exchanger A.

[0079] (e) In the above embodiment, aluminum sheet is used, but copper alloy may also be used, for example, and the copper alloy may be joined by brazing or other methods such as soft soldering. In addition, in the above embodiment, a pair of aluminum sheets are joined by welding, but a pair of aluminum sheets may also be joined by fusion, bonding or other methods.

[0080] (f) such as Figure 7 , Figure 8 As shown, heat exchanger A has a supply flow path assembly 2 and a discharge flow path assembly 3 arranged adjacently on one side of its long side direction X. Multiple heat exchange assemblies 1, each having a supply port 1f and a discharge port 1e formed at the same end in the long side direction X, are arranged at predetermined intervals along the arrangement direction Y. Figure 7In this embodiment, only one pair of heat exchange components 1 in heat exchanger A is shown, but approximately eight heat exchange components 1 are provided, similar to the previous embodiment. Only one end of heat exchange component 1 is configured to overlap with the upper surface of the ends of the supply flow path component 2 and the discharge flow path component 3.

[0081] The supply flow path assembly 2 and the discharge flow path assembly 3 are the same as those described previously, with the upper and lower plates made of aluminum sheet being stamped and joined by welding to form a flow path space inside.

[0082] Similarly, the heat exchange assembly 1 consists of an upper and lower side plate made of aluminum sheet, which are stamped and welded together to form an internal flow path space. A heat exchange flow path Da is formed within this flow path space.

[0083] In this other embodiment (f), a connecting hole FH is formed on the upper plate of the supply flow path assembly 2, and a hole-shaped discharge side opening EH is formed on the upper plate of the discharge flow path assembly 3. Correspondingly, the heat exchange assembly 1 forms a supply port 1f at a position overlapping with the connecting hole FH, and a discharge port 1e at a position overlapping with the discharge side opening EH.

[0084] The heat exchange assembly 1 has a supply port 1f and an outlet 1e disposed at one end in the long side direction X, such that the coolant F (fluid) supplied from the supply port 1f is reversed into a U-shape at the other end. In addition, since the supply flow path assembly 2 and the discharge flow path assembly 3 are disposed adjacent to each other, the supply port 1f and the outlet 1e are located at different positions in the long side direction X.

[0085] Similarly, in the same implementation, the supply flow path assembly 2 and the discharge flow path assembly 3 are joined to the heat exchange assembly 1 by welding to enable the flow of coolant F (fluid). Figure 7 As shown, a pair of heat exchange components 1 have opposite shapes, but can use parts of the same shape.

[0086] In this other embodiment (f), since the coolant F (fluid) flows in a U-shape after reversing its direction in each of the plurality of heat exchange components 1, the temperature of the heat exchange component 1 in the long side direction can be made uniform, and the battery B disposed at any position in the long side direction X can be cooled without temperature difference. Furthermore, in this other embodiment (f), there is a structure in which the coolant F flows to a single heat exchange flow path Da through which the coolant F flows from the connecting hole FH, and after reversing into a U-shape, the coolant F flows to two heat exchange flow paths Da, but the number of any heat exchange flow paths Da can be any value.

[0087] (g) such as Figures 9-13As shown, the first plate 21, the second plate 22, and the third plate 23, which have been stamped respectively, are overlapped in the vertical direction Z. The flanges are joined together by welding, thereby forming a heat exchanger A that integrates the supply flow path assembly 2, the discharge flow path assembly 3, and multiple heat exchange assemblies 1.

[0088] The heat exchanger A has multiple batteries (not shown) mounted on the upper surface of multiple heat exchange components 1. By supplying coolant F (fluid) to the heat exchange components 1, the temperature of the multiple batteries can be regulated.

[0089] The first plate 21, the second plate 22, and the third plate 23 are each made of a metal material (metal plate) with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum. In addition, the heat exchanger A can also join the first plate 21, the second plate 22, and the third plate 23 with a copper alloy by means of, for example, brazing with a copper alloy.

[0090] like Figures 10-13 As shown, in this other embodiment (g), a cylindrical flow path section G is formed by dividing the cylindrical space formed by the first plate 21 and the third plate 23 by the second plate 22, so that the supply flow path assembly 2 and the discharge flow path assembly 3 are adjacent to each other. The second plate 22 of the flow path section G functions as a partition wall, and the supply-side flow path S constituting the supply flow path assembly 2 and the discharge-side flow path R constituting the discharge flow path assembly 3 are arranged at the position separated by the second plate 22.

[0091] The first plate 21 has an upper raised portion 21a that protrudes upward, and the third plate 23 has a lower raised portion 23a that protrudes downward. They are overlapped and joined by welding with the flange portions of the first plate 21, the second plate 22 and the third plate 23 overlapping, thereby forming the cylindrical flow path section G.

[0092] The second plate 22 has an upper protrusion 22a that protrudes upward and a lower protrusion 22b that protrudes downward. The upper protrusion 22a is joined by welding while in close contact with the inner surface of the upper ridge 21a, and the lower protrusion 22b is joined by welding while in close contact with the inner surface of the lower ridge 23a, thereby forming a supply-side flow path S and a discharge-side flow path R.

[0093] Furthermore, the flow path G can also be configured such that the upper protrusion 22a is not welded to the upper raised portion 21a but is tightly attached to the inner surface, and the lower protrusion 22b is not welded to the inner surface of the lower raised portion 23a but is tightly attached to it. Alternatively, adhesive can be used to bond and fix the tightly attached parts.

[0094] like Figure 9As shown, the heat exchange assembly 1 is integrally formed with the flow path section G and extends in a direction orthogonal to the direction of flow of the coolant F (fluid) (arrangement direction Y) (long side direction X).

[0095] like Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 12 As shown, the heat exchange assembly 1 forms a heat exchange flow path Da between the first extension 21t and the second extension 22t. The first extension 21t extends linearly along the long side direction X on the upper surface of the upper raised portion 21a of the first plate 21, and the second extension 22t extends along the long side direction X in a portion of the second plate 22. Furthermore, the height Z of the second extension 22t in the vertical direction is set such that it extends linearly from the middle of the vertical flow path portion G in the second plate 22.

[0096] The heat exchange flow path Da has a forward flow path Das that supplies coolant F (fluid) from the supply side flow path S and a return flow path Dar that reverses the flow into a U-shape at the protruding end of the heat exchange assembly 1 and returns the coolant F (fluid) to the discharge side flow path R.

[0097] like Figure 9 , Figure 11 , Figure 15 As shown, the second extension 22t has a partition wall 22c that protrudes upwards so that its protruding end is in close contact with the inner wall (lower surface) of the first extension 21t. By forming this partition wall 22c, a flow path Das and a return flow path Dar are formed in such a way that the space between the first extension 21t and the second extension 22t is divided in two in the arrangement direction Y. The structure of the partition wall 22c will be described below.

[0098] like Figure 9 As shown, the heat exchange assembly 1 has a smooth curved surface at the extension end that guides the coolant F (fluid) flowing towards the flow path Das between the first extension 21t and the second extension 22t to the return flow path Dar.

[0099] like Figure 10 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 As shown, the second plate 22 forms a supply section 22s (supply port) on the lower side of the lower surface of the upper ridge 21a by recessing the upper protrusion 22a of the region corresponding to the outward flow path Das. As a result, the heat exchanger A sends a portion of the coolant F (fluid) flowing to the supply-side flow path S from the supply section 22s (supply port) to the outward flow path Das.

[0100] like Figure 12 , Figure 14 , Figure 15As shown, the second plate 22 forms an opening 22r (outlet) on a portion of its upper protrusion 22a corresponding to the return path Dar in the direction along the arrangement direction Y. Thus, the heat exchanger A allows the coolant F (fluid) flowing through the return path Dar to return from the opening 22r (outlet) to the discharge side flow path R.

[0101] like Figure 9 , Figure 11 , Figure 14 As shown, the heat exchange assembly 1 forms a first recess W1. When viewed from above in the first extension 21t, the first recess W1 is recessed downward at the boundary between the supply section 22s and the opening section 22r by a deep drawing process, in the area near the flow path section G. This first recess W1 causes a portion of the first extension 21t to protrude downward, and this protruding end (lower portion) is joined to the second extension 22t by welding.

[0102] In addition, such as Figure 11 As shown, a first sealing portion Q1 is formed by placing a portion of the protrusion formed by the first recess W1 against the outer surface of the region in an inclined position connected to the outer surface of the upper protrusion 22a at the boundary position between the supply portion 22s and the opening portion 22r.

[0103] That is, the first sealing part Q1 is structured such that the inclined region at one end of the protrusion formed by the first recess W1 in the long side direction X is in close contact with the inclined region of the outer surface of the upper protrusion 22a of the second plate 22 without gap. According to this structure, the first sealing part Q1 prevents the coolant F (fluid) from the supply side flow path S from flowing into the opening 22r in a short-circuit manner.

[0104] like Figure 11 As shown, when viewed from above in the second extension 22t, the boundary between the supply section 22s and the opening 22r of the heat exchange assembly 1 is formed by deep drawing, which causes the area connected to the first recess W1 in the long side direction X to be recessed upward to form a second recess W2. This second recess W2 causes a portion of the second extension 22t to protrude upward, and this protruding end (upper part) is joined to the first extension 21t by welding.

[0105] In addition, such as Figure 11 As shown, the other end of the protrusion formed by the first recess W1 in the long side direction X is shaped into an inclined position as shown in the figure. By making the region of the inclined position of the protrusion formed by the second recess W2 fit tightly against the region of the inclined position, a second sealing portion Q2 is formed. In particular, the protrusion formed by the second recess W2 functions as a partition wall 22c.

[0106] That is, the second sealing portion Q2 is a structure in which the region of the inclined posture of the protrusion formed by the first recess W1 and the region of the inclined posture of the protrusion formed by the second recess W2 are tightly attached without gap. In addition, the protruding end (upper part) of the protrusion formed by the second recess W2 is tightly attached to the first extension 21t.

[0107] According to this structure, in the region where the second recess W2 is connected to the protrusion formed by the first recess W1 in the direction along the long side X, the second sealing part Q2 prevents the coolant F (fluid) from leaking between the protrusion of the first recess W1 and the protrusion of the second recess W2. Simultaneously, the protrusion of the second recess W2, functioning as a partition wall 22c, prevents the coolant F (fluid) from leaking between the inflow path Das and the return path Dar.

[0108] Although not shown in the accompanying drawings, the heat exchange assembly 1 of this other embodiment (g) has a supply-side port for supplying coolant F (fluid) to the supply-side flow path S and a discharge-side port for discharging coolant F (fluid) from the discharge-side flow path R.

[0109] According to this structure, heat exchanger A supplies coolant F (fluid) to the supply-side flow path S from the supply-side port, causing the coolant F (fluid) to flow into the outflow path Das of the plurality of heat exchange components 1. Then, heat exchanger A returns the coolant F (fluid) to the discharge-side flow path R via the return path Dar, and discharges it from the discharge-side port.

[0110] The heat exchanger A constructed in this way can be manufactured by welding together the first plate 21, the second plate 22 and the third plate 23, which are respectively stamped.

[0111] Furthermore, in this heat exchanger A, since the partition wall 22c is integrally formed inside the heat exchange assembly 1, the inflow path Das and the return path Dar can be separated without increasing the number of components, compared to components that use other components to form the partition structure. Additionally, this structure reduces the number of manufacturing steps compared to structures that assemble multiple components.

[0112] Compared to a structure that connects multiple components to form a flow path, this heat exchanger A exhibits lower flow resistance, for example, when the coolant F (fluid) flows from the supply-side flow path S to the flow path Das, although the coolant F (fluid) passes through the supply section 22s, the supply section 22s is a simple opening, thus the flow resistance is low. Similarly, when the coolant F (fluid) flows from the return flow path Dar to the discharge-side flow path R, although the coolant F (fluid) passes through the opening 22r, the opening 22r is formed into a perforated shape on the second plate 22, thus the flow resistance is low.

[0113] This reduces flow path resistance, thus lowering pressure loss compared to a structure that connects multiple components to form a flow path. It achieves a sufficient supply of coolant F (fluid) to multiple heat exchange components 1 without seeking to increase the pressure of the coolant F (fluid) supplied to the supply-side flow path S.

[0114] (Modification (1) of other implementation methods (g))

[0115] The flow path section G is constructed by arranging the supply-side flow path S and the discharge-side flow path R vertically or laterally. Alternatively, the flow path section G can also be a structure in which the supply-side flow path S and the discharge-side flow path R are positioned on an inclined line. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of each flow path of the supply-side flow path S and the discharge-side flow path R can be arbitrarily set according to the structure of the flow path section G, for example, it can be rectangular, polygonal, rhomboid, or a combination of rectangles and circles.

[0116] (Modification (2) of other implementation methods (g))

[0117] The stamped first plate 21, second plate 22 and third plate 23 are arranged in an overlapping manner from bottom to top, and a heat exchanger A is formed by placing multiple batteries (not shown) on the upper surface of the second plate 22.

[0118] The heat exchanger A in this variation (2) is... Figures 10-13 The structure shown is a structure with the top and bottom relationships reversed. However, in order to place the battery (not shown) on the second plate 22, the upper surface of the second plate 22 is arranged at a position higher than the third plate 23, and a heat exchange flow path Da with the same vertical spacing as in other embodiments (g) is formed between the second plate 22 and the first plate.

[0119] To achieve such a structure, the shapes of the first plate 21 and the second plate 22 need to be different from those of other embodiments (g), but by making the first plate 21, the second plate 22 and the third plate 23 overlap in the same way as in other embodiments (g) and integrating them by welding, heat exchanger A can be manufactured.

[0120] In this modified example (2), the heat exchanger A, like in other embodiments (g), can also form protrusions by deep drawing the first plate 21 and the second plate 22, thus constituting the first sealing part Q1 and the second sealing part Q2.

[0121] (Modification (3) of other implementation methods (g))

[0122] A first plate 21, a second plate 22, and a third plate 23, each made of stamped metal material, are overlapped along the vertical direction Z and joined together by welding to form a flow path section G. In addition, at least a portion of these plates are used to form a heat exchange assembly 1 by using metal plates as other components.

[0123] In this variation (3), as the heat exchange assembly 1, it is possible to use multiple (or more than two) metal plates that are each stamped, pre-form the heat exchange assembly 1 into a cylindrical shape, and then connect the heat exchange assembly 1 to the flow path section G by welding. Thus, the size of the heat exchange assembly 1 in the long side direction X can be set to any value according to the specifications.

[0124] Furthermore, in this modified example (3), for example, by using a metal plate that is thicker than the first plate 21 and the second plate 22, the strength of the metal plate constituting the heat exchange assembly 1 can be improved. In addition, even in the structure of this modified example (3), pressure loss is reduced in order to reduce flow path resistance.

[0125] (Modification (4) of other implementation methods (g))

[0126] As described in other embodiments (g), the partition wall 22c is formed by stamping at least one of the first plate 21 and the second plate 22. Alternatively, it is also possible to form multiple partition walls 22c. In this way, by using multiple partition walls 22c, the heat exchange flow path Da can be configured such that the coolant F (fluid) in the heat exchange assembly 1 flows back and forth multiple times.

[0127] In addition, in this modified example (4), it is also possible to form a heat exchange flow path Da by having the coolant F (fluid) flow through the coolant F in a sawtooth pattern or by having the coolant F flow through multiple parallel flow paths in a branched manner.

[0128] Furthermore, the structures disclosed in the above embodiments (including other embodiments, the same below) can be combined with the structures disclosed in other embodiments as long as they do not create contradictions. In addition, the embodiments disclosed in this specification are illustrative, and the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and can be appropriately modified within the scope of the purpose of the present invention.

[0129] In the above-described embodiments, the following structure is conceived.

[0130] (1) A heat exchanger A for fluid flow to exchange heat with a battery B mounted in a vehicle, the heat exchanger comprising: a plurality of heat exchange components 1 having a heat exchange flow path Da, a supply port 1f and an outlet 1e, the heat exchanger flow path being formed internally by overlapping and joining a plurality of metal plates, the supply port supplying fluid to the heat exchange flow path Da, and the outlet discharging fluid (coolant F) from the heat exchange flow path Da; a supply flow path assembly 2, which is respectively connected to the plurality of heat exchange components 1 and supplies fluid (coolant F) through the respective supply ports 1f of the plurality of heat exchange components 1; and an outlet flow path assembly 3, which is respectively connected to the plurality of heat exchange components 1 and discharges fluid (coolant F) from the respective outlets 1e of the plurality of heat exchange components 1.

[0131] Thus, heat exchanger A can supply fluid (coolant F) by connecting the supply flow path assembly 2 and the heat exchange assembly 1, and can discharge fluid (coolant F) by connecting the heat exchange assembly 1 and the discharge flow path assembly 3. Therefore, for example, compared with devices that use connectors and piping for fluid supply and discharge, the vertical dimension can be shortened, space can be saved, the number of parts can be reduced, and the assembly process can be simplified.

[0132] (2) In the heat exchanger A of (1), preferably, at least one of the supply flow path assembly 2 and the discharge flow path assembly 3 is formed internally by overlapping and joining multiple metal plates to form a flow path for fluid flow.

[0133] Therefore, as the supply flow path assembly 2 or the discharge flow path assembly 3, a pipeline can be formed by joining a metal plate with an upper side having an upwardly convex arc-shaped cross-section and a metal plate with a lower side having a downwardly convex circular hole-shaped cross-section, for example, through techniques such as welding. In such a pipeline formed by overlapping metal plates, for example, a flow path with a flow path cross-section compressed in the vertical direction can be easily formed, which can shorten the overall vertical dimension of the heat exchanger A.

[0134] (3) In the heat exchanger A of (1) or (2), preferably, the heat exchange assembly 1 has a heat exchange wall (heat exchange upper plate 11) opposite to the battery B and a bottom wall (heat exchange lower plate 12) opposite to the heat exchange wall (heat exchange upper plate 11), and the supply flow path assembly 2 and the discharge flow path assembly 3 are joined to the bottom wall (heat exchange lower plate 12).

[0135] Therefore, the fluid (coolant F) flowing to the supply flow path assembly 2 can be supplied to the supply port 1f of the heat exchange assembly 1 via the bottom wall (lower heat exchange plate 12) of the heat exchange assembly 1. Similarly, the fluid (coolant F) from the discharge port 1e of the heat exchange assembly 1 can be discharged to the discharge flow path assembly 3 via the bottom wall (lower heat exchange plate 12). In this structure, compared with a structure that connects the supply flow path assembly 2 and the discharge flow path assembly 3 to the upper surface of the heat exchange assembly 1, the entire upper surface of the heat exchange assembly 1 can be utilized as a heat exchange surface. For example, compared with a structure using connectors and piping, the overall vertical dimension of the heat exchanger A can be shortened.

[0136] (4) In any one of the heat exchangers A in (1) to (3), preferably, the supply port 1f is disposed at one end of the heat exchange assembly 1 and the discharge port 1e is formed at the other end of the heat exchange assembly 1.

[0137] Thus, the fluid (coolant F) flows from one end of the heat exchange assembly 1 to the other end, effectively utilizing the entire surface of the heat exchange assembly 1, and the temperature of the battery B can be effectively regulated.

[0138] (5) In any of the heat exchangers A in (1) to (4), it is preferred that the heat exchanger A also includes a connecting component J, which is connected to the supply flow path component 2 and the discharge flow path component 3, and the supply flow path and discharge flow path of fluid (coolant F) are formed inside by overlapping and joining multiple metal plates.

[0139] Therefore, a structure can be obtained that maintains the flow paths of the supply flow path assembly 2 and the discharge flow path assembly 3 in an independent state while maintaining their relative positional relationship. In this structure, the number of parts can be reduced compared to a structure in which the supply flow path assembly 2 and the discharge flow path assembly 3 are formed separately.

[0140] (6) In any of the heat exchangers A in (1) to (5), preferably, a heat exchange assembly 1 has a plurality of said heat exchange flow paths Da.

[0141] Thus, for example, compared to a structure that forms a single heat exchange flow path Da in the heat exchange assembly 1, it is not necessary to create a large temperature difference on the heat exchange surface of the heat exchange assembly 1, so that the entire surface of the heat exchange surface can be made to have a uniform temperature, and the temperature of the battery B can be set uniformly.

[0142] Industrial utilization potential

[0143] This invention can be applied to heat exchangers.

Claims

1. A heat exchanger for the flow of a fluid that exchanges heat with a battery mounted in a vehicle, the heat exchanger comprising: Multiple heat exchange components have heat exchange flow paths, supply ports and discharge ports. The heat exchange flow paths are formed internally by overlapping and joining multiple metal plates. The supply ports deliver the fluid to the heat exchange flow paths and the discharge ports deliver the fluid out of the heat exchange flow paths. A supply flow path assembly, which is respectively coupled to a plurality of said heat exchange assemblies, supplies the fluid from the respective supply ports of the plurality of said heat exchange assemblies; and A discharge flow path assembly, which is respectively coupled to one of the plurality of heat exchange assemblies, discharges the fluid from the respective discharge ports of the plurality of heat exchange assemblies. In at least one of the supply flow path assembly and the discharge flow path assembly, a flow path for the fluid to flow is formed internally by overlapping and joining multiple metal plates.

2. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, wherein, The heat exchange assembly has a heat exchange wall opposite to the battery and a bottom wall opposite to the heat exchange wall. The supply flow path assembly and the discharge flow path assembly are engaged with the bottom wall.

3. The heat exchanger according to claim 2, wherein, The supply port is located at one end of the heat exchange assembly, and the discharge port is formed at the other end of the heat exchange assembly.

4. The heat exchanger according to claim 3, wherein, It also includes a connecting component that engages with the supply flow path assembly and the discharge flow path assembly, wherein the supply flow path and discharge flow path of the fluid are formed internally by overlapping and joining multiple metal plates.

5. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, wherein, One of the heat exchange components has multiple heat exchange flow paths.

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