Heat exchanger

Abstract

The invention discloses a heat exchanger which comprises a shell, a first heat exchange tube set, a second heat exchange tube set and a redistribution device. The redistribution device includes at least one distribution plate. Each distribution plate is provided with a first position and a second position and is arranged to be switched between the first position and the second position. By arranging the redistribution device comprising the distribution plate with the variable position, when the heat exchanger works as an evaporator, the liquid refrigerant above the distribution plate can be evenly distributed to all the heat exchange pipes of the second heat exchange pipe set, it is guaranteed that the liquid refrigerant is attached to the surfaces of all the heat exchange pipes of the heat exchange pipe bundle, and the evaporation efficiency is improved. And when the heat exchanger works as a condenser, the liquid refrigerant above the distribution plate is discharged in time, so that the liquid refrigerant falling on each heat exchange tube of the second heat exchange tube group is reduced, and the condensation efficiency is improved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the field of heat exchangers, and in particular to a heat exchanger in a heat pump system. BACKGROUND

[0002] A conventional heat pump system includes a heat exchanger, a throttling device and a compressor. The refrigerant in the heat pump system runs in different circulation loop directions, so that the heat pump system has different working modes. For example, some heat pump systems can run a refrigeration circulation loop and a heating circulation loop, so that the heat pump system has refrigeration and heating working modes. In the refrigeration circulation loop, the heat exchanger can act as an evaporator; and in the heating circulation loop, the heat exchanger acts as a condenser. SUMMARY

[0003] The evaporator requires the refrigerant to be attached to the surface of the heat exchange tube, so that there is enough liquid refrigerant to supplement the continuous evaporation heat exchange in time after the liquid refrigerant evaporates on the surface of the heat exchange tube. The condenser does not want this, and the liquid refrigerant attached to the surface of the heat exchange tube will hinder the heat exchange between the gaseous refrigerant and the heat exchange tube.

[0004] At least one object of the present application is to provide a heat exchanger that can act as both a condenser and an evaporator, and can simultaneously consider the evaporation heat exchange efficiency and the condensation heat exchange efficiency.

[0005] The present application provides a heat exchanger having a length direction, a width direction and a height direction, comprising: a housing, a first heat exchange tube group and a second heat exchange tube group, and a redistribution device. The housing defines a cavity. The first heat exchange tube group and the second heat exchange tube group are located in the cavity, the heat exchange tubes in the first heat exchange tube group and the second heat exchange tube group extend along the length direction, and the first heat exchange tube group is located above the second heat exchange tube group in the height direction. The redistribution device includes at least one distribution plate, and the redistribution device is arranged between the first heat exchange tube group and the second heat exchange tube group, each of the distribution plates extends along the length direction, and each of the distribution plates is provided with a plurality of through holes. Each of the distribution plates has a first position and a second position and is arranged to switch between the first position and the second position, and each of the distribution plates is arranged such that when the distribution plate is in the first position, the distribution plate is arranged to guide the working fluid flowing through the first heat exchange tube group to flow through the through holes towards the second heat exchange tube group; and when the distribution plate is in the second position, the distribution plate is arranged to guide the working fluid flowing through the first heat exchange tube group to flow towards the side surface away from the second heat exchange tube group in the width direction.

[0006] According to the above, each of the distribution plates is arranged such that, when the distribution plate is in the first position, an upper surface of the distribution plate is parallel to the width direction; and when the distribution plate is in the second position, the upper surface of the distribution plate is at least partially inclined to the width direction, and forms an angle β with the width direction.

[0007] According to the above, each of the distribution plates is arranged to rotate between the first position and the second position, wherein the distribution plate rotates about an axis extending in the length direction.

[0008] According to the above, each of the distribution plates comprises a first side portion and a second side portion arranged opposite to each other in the width direction, wherein the first side portion is fixed, the second side portion is movable, and wherein the distribution plate is rotatable about the first side portion to switch between the first position and the second position.

[0009] According to the above, each of the distribution plates is arranged to locally deform between the first position and the second position, wherein the distribution plate comprises a deformable portion that is deformable to arch upwardly, thereby forming an upper surface that is at least partially inclined to the width direction.

[0010] According to the above, each of the distribution plates comprises a first side portion and a second side portion arranged opposite to each other in the width direction, wherein the first side portion and the second side portion are fixed, and wherein a portion of the distribution plate between the first side portion and the second side portion is deformable to switch between the first position and the second position.

[0011] According to the above, the distribution plate is at least partially made of a material that is deformable by expansion when heated, and the expansion of the distribution plate is capable of causing the distribution plate to rotate from the first position to the second position; or to locally deform from the first position to the second position.

[0012] According to the above, the distribution plate is made of a thermoplastic material that is inert to the refrigerant and the lubricating oil.

[0013] According to the above, the distribution plate is made of a material of polyvinylidene fluoride.

[0014] According to the above, the heat exchanger further comprises a plurality of support plates, which are arranged along the length direction and through which the heat exchange tubes of the first and second heat exchange tube groups pass. Each support plate comprises a plurality of windows, which accommodate the redistribution devices. Each window comprises at least one distribution plate arranged therein, and the fixed side thereof is connected to the support plate or the shell.

[0015] According to the above, the included angle β is based on the height of the window and the height of the distribution plate.

[0016] According to the above, each window has a predetermined window width. The width of the distribution plate is arranged to have a first distribution plate width total length matching the predetermined window width when the distribution plate is not deformed, and to have a second distribution plate width total length greater than the predetermined window width when the distribution plate is deformed.

[0017] According to the above, each window has a bottom wall parallel to the width direction. When the distribution plate is in the first position, the distribution plate is supported on the bottom wall of the window, and when the distribution plate is in the second position, at least a part of the distribution plate is away from the bottom wall of the window.

[0018] According to the above, the redistribution device comprises a pair of folded edges arranged outside the width direction, which extend along the height direction to allow the working fluid to form a certain height of liquid surface in the redistribution device.

[0019] According to the above, the folded edge comprises a first folded edge arranged at the first side of the distribution plate. The window group comprises a first side wall arranged outside the first folded edge, wherein the first side wall extends downwardly and inwardly to avoid the first folded edge when the distribution plate switches position.

[0020] According to the above, each window comprises a second side wall arranged on the side opposite to the first side wall. The second side of each distribution plate is arranged to be shaped to cooperate with the second side wall, so that the second side moves along the second side wall when the distribution plate rotates from the first position to the second position.

[0021] According to the above, the at least one distribution plate comprises a first distribution plate and a second distribution plate; the at least one window comprises a first window and a second window, the first window and the second window are arranged side by side in the width direction, wherein the first distribution plate and the second distribution plate are arranged in the first window and the second window respectively. Wherein the first side of the first distribution plate and the first side of the second distribution plate are arranged on opposite sides in the width direction.

[0022] According to the above, the heat exchanger is applied to a heat pump system capable of running a refrigeration cycle and a heating cycle, in the refrigeration cycle, the heat exchanger serves as an evaporator, the distribution plate of the redistribution device is in a first position; and in the heating cycle, the heat exchanger serves as a condenser, the distribution plate of the redistribution device is in a second position. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1A is a perspective view of the heat exchanger in the present application; Figure 1B is an exploded view of the heat exchanger in Figure 1A Figure 2A is a structural schematic view of the heat exchanger in another embodiment of the heat exchanger in Figure 1A Figure 2B is a structural schematic view of the heat exchanger in another embodiment of the heat exchanger in Figure 2A Figure 3A is a structural schematic view of the heat exchanger in another embodiment of the heat exchanger in Figure 1A Figure 3B is a structural schematic view of the heat exchanger in another embodiment of the heat exchanger in Figure 3A Figure 4A is a structural schematic view of the heat exchanger in another embodiment of the heat exchanger in Figure 1A Figure 4B is a structural schematic view of the heat exchanger in another embodiment of the heat exchanger in Figure 4A DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] ​​​​​​​Various specific embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this specification. It should be understood that although directional terms such as "front," "rear," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "top," and "bottom" are used in this application to describe various exemplary structural parts and elements, their use is merely for illustrative purposes and is based on the exemplary orientations shown in the accompanying drawings. Since the embodiments disclosed in this application can be arranged in different orientations, these directional terms are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered as limiting.

[0025] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of the heat exchanger in this application, used to illustrate the external structure of the heat exchanger 100. Figure 1B yes Figure 1A An exploded view of the heat exchanger 100 is shown to illustrate its general components.

[0026] like Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the heat exchanger 100 has a length direction L, a width direction W, and a height direction H. The heat exchanger 100 includes a shell 102, a first tube sheet assembly 103, a second tube sheet assembly 104, and a heat exchange tube assembly 160. The shell 102 is generally cylindrical in shape extending along the length direction L, and defines a cavity 107. The openings at both ends of the cavity 107 are closed by the first tube sheet assembly 103 and the second tube sheet assembly 104, and the heat exchange tube assembly 160 is housed in the cavity 107.

[0027] The heat exchanger 100 further includes a first fluid inlet 141 and a first fluid outlet 142, as well as a second fluid liquid inlet 171, a second fluid gas inlet / outlet 172, and a second fluid liquid outlet 173. The first tube sheet assembly 103 is provided with the first fluid inlet 141 and the first fluid outlet 142, while the housing 102 is provided with the second fluid liquid inlet 171, the second fluid gas inlet / outlet 172, and the second fluid liquid outlet 173. The heat exchange tube assembly 160 includes a heat exchange tube bundle 108 extending along the length L of the heat exchanger. The interior of the heat exchange tube bundle 108 can accommodate a first fluid, and the space outside the heat exchange tube bundle 108 in the cavity 107 can accommodate a second fluid. The first fluid can enter the heat exchange tube bundle 108 through the first fluid inlet 141 and exchange heat with the second fluid outside the heat exchange tube bundle 108, and then flow out through the first fluid outlet 142. The second fluid can enter the heat exchanger 100 from the second fluid liquid inlet 171 and flow out from the second fluid gas outlet 172, or enter the heat exchanger 100 from the second fluid gas outlet 172 and flow out from the second fluid liquid outlet 173.

[0028] As a specific example, the second fluid liquid inlet 171, the second fluid gas outlet 172, and the second fluid liquid outlet 173 are all disposed substantially in the middle of the length L of the housing 102, and the second fluid liquid inlet 171 and the second fluid gas outlet 172 are disposed on the top of the housing 102, and the second fluid liquid outlet 173 is disposed on the bottom of the housing 102. Such a disposition is to match the flow path of the second fluid in the cavity 107. It is understood by those skilled in the art that in other embodiments, the first fluid inlet 141 and the first fluid outlet 142 can also be disposed on the first tube sheet assembly 103 and the second tube sheet assembly 104, respectively. When the second fluid flows along other paths, the second fluid liquid inlet 171, the second fluid gas outlet 172, and the second fluid liquid outlet 173 can be disposed at other positions on the housing.

[0029] In one application of the present application, the first fluid is water or other cooling liquid, and the second fluid is refrigerant. The second fluid liquid inlet 171 and the second fluid liquid outlet 173 are used to flow liquid refrigerant, and the second fluid gas outlet 172 is used to flow gaseous refrigerant.

[0030] Further in combination Figure 1B As shown, the heat exchange tube assembly 160 further comprises a distribution assembly 122. The distribution assembly 122 comprises a liquid inlet pipe 174 and a distribution piece 123. The distribution piece 123 is in fluid communication with the second fluid liquid inlet 171 through the liquid inlet pipe 174. The distribution piece 123 extends along the length L, and is provided with a plurality of distribution holes (not shown in the figure) at intervals along the length L, to evenly distribute the liquid refrigerant entering the heat exchanger 100 from the second fluid liquid inlet 171 onto the heat exchange tube bundle 108 along the length L.

[0031] The heat exchanger 100 further comprises a plurality of support plates 105, which are arranged along the length direction L and are fixed to the inner wall of the shell 102. Each heat exchange tube in the heat exchange tube bundle 108 extends along the length direction L and passes through each support plate 105 in sequence, so that the heat exchange tube bundle 108 can be supported by the plurality of support plates 105 and fixed relative to the shell 102. In the embodiment, a plurality of heat exchange tubes in the heat exchange tube bundle 108 form a first heat exchange tube group 131, a second heat exchange tube group 132 and a third heat exchange tube group 133. The first heat exchange tube group 131, the second heat exchange tube group 132 and the third heat exchange tube group 133 are arranged in sequence from high to low along the height direction H, and are all supported by the plurality of support plates 105. It can be understood by those skilled in the art that although only two support plates 105 are shown in the embodiment as shown in the figure, more or less support plates 105 can also be provided according to the length of the heat exchange tubes of the heat exchange tube bundle 108. And in some embodiments, the third heat exchange tube group 133 can also not be included, and only the first heat exchange tube group 131 and the second heat exchange tube group 132 are included.

[0032] The heat exchange tube assembly 160 further comprises a baffle assembly 161 fixedly connected in the shell 102 to limit the specific flow path of the gas and liquid in the cavity 107. The specific structure of the heat exchange tube bundle 108 and the specific structure of the baffle assembly 161 will be described later in combination with Figure 2A

[0033] Thus, when the heat exchanger 100 is used as an evaporator, the liquid refrigerant can enter the distribution assembly 122 from the second fluid liquid inlet 171, be evenly distributed to each heat exchange tube of the heat exchange tube bundle 108 in the length direction L in the distribution assembly 122, evaporate into gaseous refrigerant after heat exchange with the hot water inside the heat exchange tube bundle 108, and flow out of the heat exchanger 100 from the second fluid gas outlet 172.

[0034] When the heat exchanger 100 is used as a condenser, the gaseous refrigerant can enter the cavity 107 of the heat exchanger 100 from the second fluid gas outlet 172, diffuse to each heat exchange tube of the heat exchange tube bundle 108 in the cavity 107, condense into liquid refrigerant after heat exchange with the cold water inside the heat exchange tube bundle 108, and flow out of the heat exchanger 100 from the second fluid liquid outlet 173.

[0035] Figure 2A and Figure 2B Figures showing the structure of the axial section of an embodiment of the heat exchanger 100 when the redistribution device is in different positions, for explaining the more specific structure inside the heat exchanger 100. Among them Figure 2A Figures showing the structure when the distribution plate is in the first position and the heat exchanger is used as an evaporator. Figure 2B ​The structure of the heat exchanger as a condenser when the distribution plate is in the second position is shown.

[0036] As Figure 2A and Figure 2B The baffle assembly 161 includes a top baffle 244, a pair of upper side baffles 245, a pair of L-shaped baffles 246, and a pair of lower side baffles 247, which are all connected within the cavity 107 to cooperatively define a second fluid flow path in the cavity 107. The baffle assembly 161 and the housing 102 define a gas flow passage 248 therebetween. The gas flow passage 248 is in fluid communication with the second fluid gas outlet 172. The baffle assembly 161 further defines a bypass passage 249 within the baffle assembly 161 in fluid communication with the gas flow passage 248. When the heat exchanger 100 is operated as an evaporator, the gaseous refrigerant can pass through the bypass passage 249 into the gas flow passage 248 and then exit from the second fluid gas outlet 172. This prevents the gaseous refrigerant evaporated by the first heat exchange tube set 131 from being directly discharged from the heat exchanger 100 due to the proximity of the second fluid gas outlet 172, and instead provides sufficient flow distance for the gaseous refrigerant to separate from the liquid refrigerant before being discharged.

[0037] Specifically, the top baffle 244 is disposed above the first heat exchange tube set 131. In the width direction W, the top baffle 244 is generally trapezoidal in shape with a higher middle and lower ends. The distribution member 123 is connected below the higher portion of the top baffle 244, and there is a spacing between the distribution member 123 and the first heat exchange tube set 131 to distribute the liquid refrigerant entering the heat exchanger 100 onto the first heat exchange tube set 131. The pair of upper side baffles 245 are disposed below the top baffle 244 and are respectively connected to the lower ends of the lower portions of the top baffle 244 in the width direction W. The pair of L-shaped baffles 246 are generally L-shaped in the width direction W and respectively extend outwardly along the width direction W from the outer sides of the pair of upper side baffles 245 for a distance and then extend downwardly along the height direction H. The pair of lower side baffles 247 are respectively disposed inwardly of the pair of L-shaped baffles 246. The bypass passage 249 is defined by the spacing between the pair of upper side baffles 245, the pair of L-shaped baffles 246, and the pair of lower side baffles 247.

[0038] The heat exchanger 100 further comprises a redistribution device 220, which is disposed between the first heat exchange tube group 131 and the second heat exchange tube group 132 and has a spacing with the first heat exchange tube group 131 and the second heat exchange tube group 132. The first heat exchange tube group 131 is located above the redistribution device 220, the second heat exchange tube group 132 is located below the redistribution device 220, and the third heat exchange tube group 133 is located below the second heat exchange tube group 132. In some embodiments, the third heat exchange tube group 133 is spaced apart from the second heat exchange tube group 132 by a distance to allow liquid to accumulate at the bottom of the shell 102 to submerge the third heat exchange tube group 133, but not to submerge the second heat exchange tube group 132.

[0039] In one embodiment of the present application, in the height direction H, the top end of the pair of lower side baffles 247 is higher than the bottom end of the corresponding L-shaped baffle 246, but is spaced apart from the top of the corresponding L-shaped baffle 246 by a distance, and the bottom of the pair of upper side baffles 245 is spaced apart from the redistribution device 220 by a distance. And in the width direction W, the pair of lower side baffles 247 is spaced apart from the corresponding L-shaped baffle 246 by a distance, and the pair of upper side baffles 245 is located on both sides of the upper portion of the first heat exchange tube group 131. In addition, in the width direction W, the pair of lower side baffles 247 is located on both sides of the upper portion of the second heat exchange tube group 132 and outside the redistribution device 220, and is spaced apart from the redistribution device 220 by a distance.

[0040] The redistribution device 220 comprises at least one distribution plate 221, each of which is substantially flat and extends in the length direction L, and is non-fixedly disposed between the first heat exchange tube group 131 and the second heat exchange tube group 132. Each distribution plate 221 is provided with a plurality of through holes 230 extending through the height direction W thereof to allow the fluid above the distribution plate 221 to flow toward the second heat exchange tube group 132 through the through holes 230. In some embodiments, the plurality of through holes 230 are arranged at intervals in the length direction L.

[0041] The redistribution device 220 further comprises a pair of folded edges disposed outside the width direction W, which extend in the height direction H to operate the refrigerant to form a certain height of liquid level in the redistribution device 220. In the present embodiment, the folded edges comprise a first folded edge 235 disposed on the left side of the distribution plate 221 and a second folded edge 236 disposed on the right side of the distribution plate 221. It can be understood by those skilled in the art that although not shown in the figure, in order to be able to form a certain height of liquid level in the redistribution device 220, i.e. above the distribution plate 221, folded edges are also provided in the front-rear direction of the distribution plate 221.

[0042] In this application, because each distribution plate 221 is not fixedly positioned, each distribution plate 221 has a first position and a second position, and can switch between these two positions based on different uses of the heat exchanger 100. For example, Figure 2A As shown, the distribution plate 221 is in the first position, and the heat exchanger 100 is used as an evaporator. In... Figure 2A In the indicated state, the distribution plate 221 guides the liquid refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchange tube group 131 through the through-holes 230 toward the second heat exchange tube group. Thus, any unevaporated liquid refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchange tube group 131 can be evenly distributed onto the second heat exchange tube group 132 via the redistribution device 220, continuing to exchange heat and evaporate with the second heat exchange tube group 132. In this embodiment, the heat exchange tubes in the second heat exchange tube group 132 are arranged in rows along the width direction W, with gaps between adjacent rows to allow fluid flow. Several through-holes 230 are also arranged in rows along the width direction W, with the spacing between adjacent rows approximately equal to the spacing between adjacent heat exchange tubes in the second heat exchange tube group 132. When the distribution plate 221 is in the first position, the through-holes 230 are approximately aligned with the second heat exchange tube group 132, so that the refrigerant passing through the through-holes 230 falls precisely onto the heat exchange tubes of the second heat exchange tube group 132. In this embodiment, when the distribution plate 221 is in the first position, the distribution plate 221 is approximately horizontal and substantially parallel to the width direction W.

[0043] like Figure 2B As shown, the distribution plate 221 is in the second position, and the heat exchanger 100 is used as a condenser. In... Figure 2B In the illustrated state, when the distribution plate 221 is in the second position, it can guide the liquid refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchange tube assembly 131 toward the side away from the second heat exchange tube assembly 132 in the width direction W, thereby reducing the amount of liquid refrigerant falling onto the heat exchange tubes of the second heat exchange tube assembly 132 through the through-hole 230. In this embodiment, when the distribution plate 221 is in the second position, it is at least partially inclined in the width direction W and forms an angle β with the width direction, thereby tilting the liquid refrigerant above the distribution plate 221 toward a pair of lower side baffles 247 to reduce the amount of liquid refrigerant falling onto the heat exchange tubes of the second heat exchange tube assembly 132. Those skilled in the art will understand that when the distribution plate 221 is not flat, it is sufficient that its upper surface is approximately horizontal in the first position and at least partially inclined in the second position.

[0044] The reason is that in the evaporation process, the evaporator requires the liquid refrigerant to adhere to the surface of each heat exchange tube, so that the liquid refrigerant evaporated on the surface of the heat exchange tube can be supplemented in time for the next continuous evaporation heat exchange, so as to achieve the ideal evaporation efficiency. And in the condensation process, the condenser needs the condensed liquid refrigerant to be discharged in time, rather than adhering to the surface of the heat exchange tube to hinder the heat exchange between the gaseous refrigerant and the heat exchange tube, so as to make enough gaseous refrigerant be condensed heat exchange, so as to achieve the ideal condensation efficiency.

[0045] The present application can uniformly distribute the liquid refrigerant above the distribution plate to each heat exchange tube of the second heat exchange tube group when the heat exchanger works as an evaporator, so as to ensure that the surface of each heat exchange tube of the heat exchange tube bundle adheres to the liquid refrigerant, and improve the evaporation efficiency. When the heat exchanger works as a condenser, the liquid refrigerant above the distribution plate is discharged in time, so as to reduce the liquid refrigerant falling on each heat exchange tube of the second heat exchange tube group, and improve the condensation efficiency.

[0046] Therefore, when the heat exchanger 100 works as an evaporator, the liquid enters the heat exchanger 100 from the second fluid liquid inlet 171, and is uniformly distributed to the first heat exchange tube group 131 through the distribution assembly 122. The gas evaporated through the first heat exchange tube group 131 can flow upwards and then downwards in the bypass passage 249, and then enter the airflow passage 248, and finally be discharged from the second fluid gas outlet 172. The liquid that has not been completely evaporated falls above the distribution plate 221 of the redistribution device 220, and is uniformly distributed to the second heat exchange tube group 132 through the distribution plate 221 after accumulating a certain height above the distribution plate 221. The gas evaporated through the second heat exchange tube group 132 does not need to flow through the bypass passage 249, but directly enters the airflow passage 248 after bypassing a pair of lower baffles 247, and finally is discharged from the second fluid gas outlet 172. The liquid that has not been completely evaporated continues to fall to the bottom of the shell 102, and is immersed in the third heat exchange tube group 133 after accumulating a certain height. The gas evaporated through the third heat exchange tube group 133 directly enters the airflow passage 248, and finally is discharged from the second fluid gas outlet 172.

[0047] When the heat exchanger 100 is used as a condenser, gas enters the heat exchanger 100 from the second fluid gas inlet 172 and spreads directly into contact with the individual heat exchange tubes of the first and second heat exchange tube sets 131, 132 in the volume 107 of the heat exchanger 100. The liquid condensed by the first heat exchange tube set 131 falls over the distribution plate 221 of the redistribution device 220 and flows down towards the outside, i.e. the left side, of the second heat exchange tube set 132 until it reaches the bottom of the shell 102 when the liquid has accumulated to a height exceeding the first fold 235. The liquid condensed by the second heat exchange tube set 132 falls directly into the bottom of the shell 102. The liquid submerges the third heat exchange tube set 133 when the liquid has accumulated to a height in the bottom of the shell 102. The third heat exchange tube set 133 can be used as a sub-cooling tube set. Finally, the liquid is discharged from the heat exchanger 100 through the second fluid liquid outlet 173.

[0048] As a more specific example, in the present embodiment, the distribution plate 221 is switched between the first and second positions by rotation. The distribution plate 221 is rotatable about an axis extending in the length direction L so that the distribution plate 221 can be rotated between the first and second positions. In the present embodiment, the distribution plate 221 comprises a first side portion 222 and a second side portion 223 arranged opposite each other in the width direction W. The first side portion 222 is fixed, e.g. to the support plate 105 or the shell 102, and the second side portion 223 is movable. The distribution plate 221 is rotatable about the first side portion 222 from a horizontal position parallel to the width direction W to an inclined position inclined to the width direction W. In the present embodiment, the first fold 235 is formed extending upwardly from an edge of the first side portion 222 and the second fold 236 is formed extending upwardly from an edge of the second side portion 223. It will be appreciated by the skilled person that the distribution plate 221 can be fixed for rotation at other locations than the ends, as long as the axis about which the distribution plate 221 is rotatable extends in the length direction L.

[0049] In the present embodiment, in order to enable the distribution plate 221 to rotate automatically between the first and second positions, the distribution plate 221 is at least partially made of a material that is deformable by expansion when heated. In the present embodiment, the distribution plate 221 is made entirely of a material that is deformable by expansion when heated. The deformable expansion of the distribution plate 221 by heating enables the distribution plate 221 to increase in width in the width direction W and thereby cooperate with the window 251 in the support plate 105 to rotate automatically from the first position to the second position. In some embodiments, the distribution plate 221 is made of a thermoplastic material that is inert to the refrigerant and lubricating oil, e.g. the distribution plate 221 is made of a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) material.

[0050] Generally, the temperature of the refrigerant in the shell 102 is about 50 to 85 °C when the heat exchanger 100 is operated as a condenser. The temperature of the refrigerant in the shell 102 is only about 5 to 15 °C when the heat exchanger 100 is operated as an evaporator. That is, the temperature of the refrigerant in the condenser is higher than the temperature of the refrigerant in the evaporator by about 60 °C or more. By selecting a suitable heat-sensitive material, the distribution plate 221 can be expanded when the heat exchanger 100 is operated as an evaporator, but not expanded when the heat exchanger 100 is operated as a condenser.

[0051] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the support plate 105 supports the first heat exchange tube group 131, the second heat exchange tube group 132, and the third heat exchange tube group 133. The support plate 105 also supports the redistribution device 220. Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the support plate 105 supports the first heat exchange tube group 131, the second heat exchange tube group 132, and the third heat exchange tube group 133. The support plate 105 also supports the redistribution device 220. The support plate 105 is provided with a window group 250, which can accommodate a portion of the redistribution device 220. Since a plurality of support plates 105 are arranged along the length direction L, the redistribution device 220 can pass through each support plate 105 in turn through the window group 250 of each support plate 105, so that the redistribution device 220 can be supported by the plurality of support plates 105 and fixed relative to the shell 102.

[0052] The window group 250 includes at least one window 251, which is arranged corresponding to the distribution plate 221, so that the distribution plate 221 is arranged in the corresponding window 251. The first side portion 222 of the distribution plate 221 is connected to the support plate 105 or the shell 102. The window 251 has a bottom wall 252 and first and second side walls 253 and 254 arranged opposite to each other in the width direction W. The bottom wall 252 is substantially parallel to the width direction W. When the distribution plate 221 is in the first position, the distribution plate 221 is supported on the bottom wall 252, so that the distribution plate 221 is also substantially parallel to the width direction W. When the distribution plate 221 is rotated to the second position, at least a portion of the distribution plate 221, for example, a portion other than the first side portion 222, is away from the bottom wall 252.

[0053] The first side wall 253 is located at the left end of the bottom wall 252 and extends upwardly therefrom. In the present embodiment, the first side wall 253 extends downwardly and inwardly from top to bottom, so that the first side wall 253 can avoid the first fold 235 when the distribution plate 221 is rotated to switch positions. The second side wall 254 is located at the right side of the bottom wall 252 and extends upwardly therefrom, and cooperates with the shape of the second side 223 of the distribution plate 221, so that the second side 223 moves along the second side wall 254 during the rotation of the distribution plate 221 from the first position to the second position. In the present embodiment, the second side wall 254 also extends downwardly and inwardly from top to bottom. Thus, the second side wall 254 leaves a space for the expansion of the distribution plate 221 and guides the upward movement of the distribution plate 221 as the distribution plate 221 is deformed by expansion.

[0054] The window 251 has a window predetermined width W0, which refers to the width of the bottom of the window 251, i.e. the width of the bottom wall 252. When the distribution plate 221 is not deformed, the distribution plate 221 is supported on the bottom wall 252 and has a first distribution plate total width W1. When the distribution plate 221 is deformed by expansion due to heating, the distribution plate 221 has a second distribution plate total width W2. In the present embodiment, the first distribution plate total width W1 is substantially matched with the window predetermined width W0, for example, W1 is substantially equal to W0. And the total width of the distribution plate 221 increases after expansion, so that the second distribution plate total width W2 is greater than the window predetermined width W0.

[0055] When the distribution plate 221 is in the first position and is heated, the distribution plate 221 has a tendency to expand to increase the total width. Since the first side 222 is fixed and the second side 223 is movable, the second side 223 of the distribution plate 221 moves upwardly under the guidance of the second side wall 254 of the window 251. Until the distribution plate 221 reaches the second position, the second fold 236 abuts against the top of the window. Thus, the distribution plate 221 can automatically rotate from the first position to the second position after being heated. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the total width of the distribution plate in the present application refers to the total length in the width direction of the distribution plate, rather than the width in the width direction W of the heat exchanger.

[0056] In some embodiments, the distribution plate 221 forms an angle β with the width direction W when in the second position. The angle β is set based on the height of the window 251 and the height of the distribution plate 221. If the angle β is too small, more liquid can accumulate above the distribution plate 221, and less liquid can be poured outside the second heat pipe group 132. If the angle β is too large, more space can be required for the rotation of the distribution plate 221. As a specific example, the angle β is 2-5°.

[0057] As can be understood by those skilled in the art, in the present embodiment, the re-distribution device 220 comprises a distribution plate 221, and the distribution plate 221 is provided with a plurality of windows 222. In other embodiments, as shown in Figure 3A and Figure 3B the re-distribution device can also comprise two or more distribution plates, and the number of windows can be correspondingly provided. In the present embodiment, the distribution plate 221 rotates between the first position and the second position to realize the position switching. In other embodiments, the distribution plate can also realize the position switching by deforming the distribution plate locally, such as Figure 4A and Figure 4B As can be understood by those skilled in the art, in some embodiments, the distribution plate can also realize the position switching by other manners and known structures. In addition, although in the present embodiment, the distribution plate can automatically switch to different positions based on different uses of the heat exchanger, those skilled in the art can also provide an additional driving mechanism to realize the position switching of the distribution plate.

[0058] Figure 3A and Figure 3B shows a structural schematic diagram of the axial section of another embodiment of the heat exchanger, wherein Figure 3A shows the structure when the distribution plate is in the first position and the heat exchanger is used as an evaporator. Figure 3B shows the structure when the distribution plate is in the second position and the heat exchanger is used as a condenser.

[0059] As shown in Figure 3A and Figure 3B the general structure of the heat exchanger 300 is the same as that of the heat exchanger 100, and the difference lies in the structure of the re-distribution device 320 which is different from that of the re-distribution device 220. In the present embodiment, the re-distribution device 320 comprises a first distribution plate 321a and a second distribution plate 321b, and the window group 350 comprises a first window 351a and a second window 351b. The first window 351a and the second window 351b are arranged side by side in the width direction W, and the first distribution plate 321a and the second distribution plate 321b are arranged in the first window 351a and the second window 351b, respectively.

[0060] The first side 322a of the first distribution plate 321a is arranged on the left side of the first distribution plate 321a and is fixed. The second side 323a of the first distribution plate 321a is arranged on the right side of the first distribution plate 321a and is movable. When the first distribution plate 321a is heated, the first distribution plate 321a can rotate around the first side 322a from the first position to the second position.

[0061] On the contrary, the first side 322b of the second distribution plate 321b is disposed on the right side of the second distribution plate 321b and is fixed. The second side 323b of the second distribution plate 321b is disposed on the left side of the second distribution plate 321b and is movable. When the second distribution plate 321b is heated, the second distribution plate 321b is able to rotate around the first side 322b from the first position to the second position.

[0062] In the present embodiment, the first side 322a of the first distribution plate 321a and the first side 322b of the second distribution plate 321b are respectively disposed outside the re-distribution device 320 in the width direction W. A pair of first folds 335 are respectively disposed at the first side 322a of the first distribution plate 321a and the first side 322b of the second distribution plate 321b to allow the liquid to form a certain height of liquid surface in the re-distribution device 320.

[0063] Correspondingly, the first side wall 353 is disposed outside the pair of first folds 335, i.e. on the left side of the first window 351a and on the right side of the second window 351b. Each first side wall 353 extends inwardly and downwardly from top to bottom to avoid the corresponding first fold 335 when the first distribution plate 321a and the second distribution plate 321b switch positions.

[0064] The right side of the first window 351a and the left side of the second window 351b are provided with the second side wall 354. In the present embodiment, the second side wall 354 extends vertically along the height direction H. Correspondingly, no fold is disposed at the second side 323a of the first distribution plate 321a and the second side 323b of the second distribution plate 321b, but an inclined wall 355 is disposed. The inclined wall 355 extends outwardly and downwardly from top to bottom to cooperate with the shape of the second side wall 354. Thus, during the rotation of the corresponding distribution plate from the first position to the second position, the corresponding second side is able to move upwardly along the second side wall 354.

[0065] In the present embodiment, the first side 322a of the first distribution plate 321a and the first side 322b of the second distribution plate 321b are respectively disposed outside the re-distribution device 320 in the width direction W. A pair of first folds 335 are respectively disposed at the first side 322a of the first distribution plate 321a and the first side 322b of the second distribution plate 321b to allow the liquid to form a certain height of liquid surface in the re-distribution device 320. Figure 3AIn the shown state, the heat exchanger 300 acts as an evaporator, both the first distribution plate 321a and the second distribution plate 321b are in the first position, approximately parallel to the width direction W. Liquid enters the heat exchanger 300 from the second fluid liquid inlet 171, is first evenly distributed to the first heat exchanger tube group 131. Gas evaporated from the first heat exchanger tube group 131 can be discharged from the heat exchanger 300 through the second fluid gas outlet 172. Liquid that has not been completely evaporated falls above the first distribution plate 321a and the second distribution plate 321b of the redistribution device 320, and after accumulating to a certain height, is evenly distributed to the second heat exchanger tube group 132 through the first distribution plate 321a and the second distribution plate 321b. Gas evaporated from the second heat exchanger tube group 132 is also discharged from the heat exchanger 300 through the second fluid gas outlet 172. Liquid that has not been completely evaporated continues to fall to the bottom of the shell 102, and after accumulating to a certain height, immerses the third heat exchanger tube group 133. Gas evaporated from the third heat exchanger tube group 133 is also discharged from the heat exchanger 300 through the second fluid gas outlet 172.

[0066] In the state as shown, Figure 3B In the shown state, the heat exchanger 300 acts as an evaporator, both the first distribution plate 321a and the second distribution plate 321b are in the first position, approximately parallel to the width direction W. Liquid enters the heat exchanger 300 from the second fluid liquid inlet 171, is first evenly distributed to the first heat exchanger tube group 131. Gas evaporated from the first heat exchanger tube group 131 can be discharged from the heat exchanger 300 through the second fluid gas outlet 172. Liquid that has not been completely evaporated falls above the first distribution plate 321a and the second distribution plate 321b of the redistribution device 320, and after accumulating to a certain height, is evenly distributed to the second heat exchanger tube group 132 through the first distribution plate 321a and the second distribution plate 321b. Gas evaporated from the second heat exchanger tube group 132 is also discharged from the heat exchanger 300 through the second fluid gas outlet 172. Liquid that has not been completely evaporated continues to fall to the bottom of the shell 102, and after accumulating to a certain height, immerses the third heat exchanger tube group 133. Gas evaporated from the third heat exchanger tube group 133 is also discharged from the heat exchanger 300 through the second fluid gas outlet 172.

[0067] Compared with the heat exchanger 100, the redistribution device 320 of the heat exchanger 300 includes two distribution plates arranged side by side, so that when the distribution plates are rotated to the same angle β, the height space occupied, that is, the height of the corresponding window, is smaller, thereby saving space to arrange more heat exchanger tubes.

[0068] Figure 4A And Figure 4B A structure schematic diagram of a partial axial section of still another embodiment of a heat exchanger is shown. In the shown state, Figure 4A And Figure 4BIn the heat exchanger, only the structure of the support plate is shown, and the structures of other parts are the same as those of the corresponding parts of the heat exchanger 100 and the heat exchanger 300. Among them Figure 4A The structure of the support plate when the distribution plate is in the first position and the heat exchanger is used as an evaporator is shown. Figure 4B The structure of the support plate when the distribution plate is in the second position and the heat exchanger is used as a condenser is shown.

[0069] As shown in Figure 4A and Figure 4B The overall structure of the heat exchanger of the present embodiment is the same as that of the heat exchanger 100, and the difference lies in the structure of the redistribution device 420, which is different from that of the redistribution device 220. In the present embodiment, the redistribution device 420 includes a distribution plate 421, which is arranged in the window 451 and is arranged to be locally deformed between the first position and the second position, rather than being switched between the first position and the second position by rotating. Specifically, the first side portion 422 and the second side portion 423 of the distribution plate 421 are both fixed. And the distribution plate 421 includes a deformable portion 436 arranged between the first side portion 422 and the second side portion 423, for example, arranged in the middle region of the distribution plate 421. The distribution plate 421 is made of a material that can expand and deform when heated at least at the deformable portion 436. The heated expansion and deformation of the distribution plate 421 can cause the distribution plate 421 to deform at the deformable portion 436 to arch upward, so that the distribution plate 421 is switched from the first position to the second position.

[0070] Specifically, when the distribution plate 421 is in the first position, the distribution plate 421 is substantially parallel to the width direction W. When the distribution plate 421 is heated and deformed, the distribution plate 421 is locally deformed to switch to the second position. When the distribution plate 421 is in the second position, the first side portion 422 and the second side portion 423 of the distribution plate 421 are both fixed, and the deformable portion 436 is deformed to arch upward, thereby forming an upper surface that is at least partially inclined to the width direction W, for example, in the direction from the first side portion 422 to the deformable portion 436, upwardly inclined to the width direction W, and in the direction from the deformable portion 436 to the second side portion 423, downwardly inclined to the width direction W. Thus, when the distribution plate 421 is in the second position, the liquid above the distribution plate 421 can also be poured towards the outside of the second heat pipe group through the inclined upper surface. In the present embodiment, due to the limitation of the height of the window 451, the highest point of the deformable portion 436 and the line connecting the first side portion 422 and the second side portion 423 are substantially at an angle β with the width direction W. The other structures of the redistribution device 420, such as the folding edge structure of the distribution plate 421 and the structure of the window 451, are similar to those of the distribution plate 221, and will not be described here.

[0071] The person skilled in the art can understand that, in order to guide the deformation direction of the deformable portion 436 to be upward arching, the distribution plate 421 in the first position can be slightly bent upward at the deformable portion 436.

[0072] In the present embodiment, when the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the distribution plate 421 is in the first position as shown in FIG. 4A. And when the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the distribution plate 421 is in the second position as shown in FIG. 4B. The working process is similar to that of the heat exchanger 100 and the heat exchanger 300, and will not be described here again. Figure 4A Figure 4B In the present embodiment, when the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the distribution plate 421 is in the first position as shown in FIG. 4A. And when the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the distribution plate 421 is in the second position as shown in FIG. 4B. The working process is similar to that of the heat exchanger 100 and the heat exchanger 300, and will not be described here again.

[0073] The present application can evenly distribute the liquid refrigerant above the distribution plate to each heat exchange tube of the second heat exchange tube group when the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, so as to ensure that each heat exchange tube surface of the heat exchange tube bundle is attached with liquid refrigerant, thereby improving the evaporation efficiency. And when the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the liquid refrigerant above the distribution plate is discharged in time, so as to reduce the liquid refrigerant falling on each heat exchange tube of the second heat exchange tube group, thereby improving the condensation efficiency.

[0074] And the distribution plate of the present application can realize the switching of the position by rotating or locally deforming, and the structure is simple. In some embodiments, the distribution plate is made of a material capable of expanding and deforming when heated, and a window cooperating with the distribution plate is formed on the existing support plate, so that the distribution plate can automatically switch to different positions based on different uses of the heat exchanger, and the control logic and additional driving mechanism are omitted, and the application is more convenient and reliable.

[0075] Although the present application has been described in connection with the examples of the embodiments outlined above, various alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and / or substantially equivalent aspects can be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. In addition, the technical effects and / or technical problems described in the specification are exemplary and not limiting; therefore, the disclosure in the specification can be used to solve other technical problems and have other technical effects and / or can solve other technical problems. Therefore, the examples of the embodiments of the present application as stated above are intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Various changes can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present application. Therefore, the present application is intended to include all known or earlier developed alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and / or substantially equivalent aspects.​

Claims

1. A heat exchanger having a length direction, a width direction, and a height direction, characterized in that... include: Housing, the housing defining a cavity; A first heat exchange tube group and a second heat exchange tube group are located in the cavity. The heat exchange tubes in the first heat exchange tube group and the second heat exchange tube group extend along the length direction. The first heat exchange tube group is located above the second heat exchange tube group in the height direction. as well as A redistribution device, the redistribution device comprising at least one distribution plate, and the redistribution device being disposed between a first heat exchange tube group and a second heat exchange tube group, each of the distribution plates extending along the length direction, wherein each of the distribution plates is provided with a plurality of through holes; Each of the distribution plates has a first position and a second position, and is configured to switch between the first position and the second position. Each of the distribution plates is configured to: When the distribution plate is in the first position, the distribution plate is configured to guide the working fluid flowing through the first heat exchange tube group to flow toward the second heat exchange tube group through the through hole; and When the distribution plate is in the second position, the distribution plate is configured to guide the working fluid flowing through the first heat exchange tube assembly toward the side away from the second heat exchange tube assembly in the width direction.

2. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each of the distribution plates is configured such that, when the distribution plate is in the first position, its upper surface is parallel to the width direction; and When the distribution plate is in the second position, the upper surface of the distribution plate is at least partially inclined to the width direction and forms an angle β with the width direction.

3. The heat exchanger according to claim 2, characterized in that: Each of the dispensing plates is configured to rotate between the first position and the second position, wherein the dispensing plate rotates about an axis extending along its length.

4. The heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that: Each of the dispensing plates includes a first side and a second side disposed opposite to each other in the width direction, wherein the first side is fixed, the second side is movable, and wherein the dispensing plate is rotatable about the first side to switch between a first position and a second position.

5. The heat exchanger according to claim 2, characterized in that: Each of the distribution plates is configured to be locally deformable between the first position and the second position, wherein the distribution plate includes a deformable portion capable of deforming to arch upward, thereby forming an upper surface that is at least partially inclined in the width direction.

6. The heat exchanger according to claim 5, characterized in that: Each of the distribution plates includes a first side and a second side disposed opposite to each other in the width direction, wherein the first side and the second side are fixed, and wherein the distribution plate is capable of local deformation between the first side and the second side to switch between a first position and a second position.

7. The heat exchanger according to claim 3 or 5, characterized in that: The distribution plate is at least partially made of a material that can expand and deform when heated, and the expansion and deformation of the distribution plate can cause the distribution plate to rotate from the first position to the second position; or cause the distribution plate to partially deform from the first position to the second position.

8. The heat exchanger according to claim 7, characterized in that: The distribution plate is made of a thermoplastic material that is inert to refrigerants and lubricants.

9. The heat exchanger according to claim 8, characterized in that: The distribution plate is made of polyvinylidene fluoride.

10. The heat exchanger according to claim 7, characterized in that: The heat exchanger also includes several support plates, which are spaced apart along the length direction and are configured such that each heat exchange tube of the first heat exchange tube group and the second heat exchange tube group passes through each of the support plates. Each support plate includes a window group that houses the redistribution device, wherein the window group includes at least one window, the at least one distribution plate is disposed in the corresponding window, and a corresponding fixed side is connected to the support plate or the housing.

11. The heat exchanger according to claim 10, characterized in that: The included angle β is set based on the height of the window and the height of the distribution plate.

12. The heat exchanger according to claim 10, characterized in that: Each of the windows has a predetermined window width; The width of the distribution plate is set as follows: When the distribution plate is not deformed, the distribution plate has a first distribution plate width total length that matches the predetermined width of the window; and When the distribution plate expands and deforms, the distribution plate has a second distribution plate width total length that is greater than the predetermined width of the window.

13. The heat exchanger according to claim 10, characterized in that: Each of the windows has a bottom wall that is parallel to the width direction; When the distribution plate is in the first position, the distribution plate is supported on the bottom wall of the window; Furthermore, when the distribution plate is in the second position, at least a portion of the distribution plate is away from the bottom wall of the window.

14. The heat exchanger according to claim 10, characterized in that: The redistribution device includes a pair of flanges disposed on the outer side in the width direction, the flanges extending in the height direction to allow the working fluid to form a liquid level of a certain height in the redistribution device.

15. The heat exchanger according to claim 14, characterized in that: The folded edge includes a first folded edge, which is disposed on the first side of the distribution plate; The window assembly includes a first sidewall disposed outside the first fold, wherein the first sidewall extends inward from top to bottom to avoid the first fold when the distribution plate switches positions.

16. The heat exchanger according to claim 15, characterized in that: Each of the windows includes a second sidewall, which is disposed on the side opposite to the first sidewall; The second side of each of the dispensing plates is configured to mate with the shape of the second sidewall so that the second side moves along the second sidewall as the dispensing plate rotates from the first position to the second position.

17. The heat exchanger according to claim 10, characterized in that: The at least one distribution plate includes a first distribution plate and a second distribution plate; the at least one window includes a first window and a second window, the first window and the second window are arranged side by side in the width direction, wherein the first distribution plate and the second distribution plate are respectively disposed in the first window and the second window; The first side portion of the first distribution plate and the first side portion of the second distribution plate are disposed on opposite sides in the width direction.

18. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that: The heat exchanger is applied to a heat pump system capable of operating a refrigeration cycle and a heating cycle. In the refrigeration cycle, the heat exchanger acts as an evaporator, and the distribution plate of the redistribution device is located in a first position. In the heating cycle, the heat exchanger acts as a condenser, and the distribution plate of the redistribution device is located in a second position.

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