Heat exchanger

Abstract

A heat exchanger has a first low pressure inlet, a second low pressure inlet, a low pressure outlet, a high pressure inlet, a high pressure outlet, and a plurality of plates. Each plate of the plurality of plates has: a first low pressure opening fluidly connected to the first low pressure inlet; a second low pressure opening fluidly connected to the second low pressure inlet; a third low pressure opening fluidly connected to the low pressure outlet; a first high pressure opening fluidly connected to the high pressure inlet; and a second high pressure opening fluidly connected to the high pressure outlet. The plurality of sheets includes a first set of sheets and a second set of sheets. The sheets of the first set and the sheets of the second set are alternately stacked. The plates of the first group and the plates of the second group are configured to transfer heat from the high pressure fluid to the low pressure fluid.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to European Patent Application No. 23207093.8, filed on October 31, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to heat exchangers. More specifically, in one embodiment, this invention relates to a heat exchanger, for example, for a thermal management system in an electric vehicle. Background Technology

[0004] Thermal management systems in electric vehicles are used to cool the powertrain components and regulate the air in the passenger compartment. A traditional thermal management system includes a chiller, evaporator, compressor, condenser, and expansion valve.

[0005] Various aspects of the invention will become apparent from consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to an exemplary configuration, the present invention includes a heat exchanger having a first low-pressure inlet, a second low-pressure inlet, a low-pressure outlet, a high-pressure inlet, a high-pressure outlet, a plurality of plates, a first space, and a second space. The first low-pressure inlet is configured to be connected to a first low-pressure line to supply a low-pressure fluid to the first low-pressure inlet. The second low-pressure inlet is configured to be connected to a second low-pressure line to supply the low-pressure fluid to the second low-pressure inlet. The low-pressure outlet is configured to be connected to a third low-pressure line to supply the low-pressure fluid to the third low-pressure line. The high-pressure inlet is configured to be connected to a first high-pressure line to supply a high-pressure fluid to the high-pressure inlet. The high-pressure outlet is configured to be connected to a second high-pressure line to supply the high-pressure fluid to the second high-pressure line. Each of the plurality of plates has: a first low-pressure opening fluidly connected to a first low-pressure inlet; a second low-pressure opening fluidly connected to the second low-pressure inlet; a third low-pressure opening fluidly connected to the low-pressure outlet; a first high-pressure opening fluidly connected to the high-pressure inlet; and a second high-pressure opening fluidly connected to the high-pressure outlet. The plurality of plates includes a first group of plates and a second group of plates. The plates of the first group and the second group are stacked alternately. The plates of the first group and the second group are configured to transfer heat from the high-pressure fluid to the low-pressure fluid. When one of the plates of the first group is positioned below one of the plates of the second group, a first space is formed between that plate in the first group and that plate in the second group. When one of the plates of the second group is positioned below one of the plates of the first group, a second space is formed between that plate in the first group and that plate in the second group. The first space provides fluid communication between the first low-pressure opening and the third low-pressure opening, provides fluid communication between the second low-pressure opening and the third low-pressure opening, and blocks fluid communication between the first high-pressure opening and the second high-pressure opening. The second space provides fluid communication between the first high-pressure opening and the second high-pressure opening, and blocks fluid communication between the first low-pressure opening and the third low-pressure opening, as well as blocks fluid communication between the second low-pressure opening and the third low-pressure opening.

[0007] According to another exemplary configuration, the present invention includes a heat exchanger having: a low-pressure inlet configured to be connected to a low-pressure inlet line to supply a low-pressure fluid to the low-pressure inlet; a low-pressure outlet configured to be connected to a low-pressure outlet line to supply the low-pressure fluid to the low-pressure outlet line; a high-pressure inlet configured to be connected to a high-pressure inlet line to supply a high-pressure fluid to the high-pressure inlet; a high-pressure outlet configured to be connected to a high-pressure outlet line to supply the high-pressure fluid to a second high-pressure line; a plurality of plates; a first space; and a second space. Each of the plurality of plates has: a low-pressure plate inlet fluidly connected to the low-pressure inlet; a low-pressure plate outlet fluidly connected to the low-pressure outlet; a high-pressure plate inlet fluidly connected to the high-pressure inlet; and a high-pressure plate outlet fluidly connected to the high-pressure outlet. The plurality of plates includes a first group of plates and a second group of plates. The plates of the first group and the second group are stacked alternately. The plates of the first group and the second group are configured to transfer heat from the high-pressure fluid to the low-pressure fluid. When one of the plates in the first group is positioned below one of the plates in the second group, a first space is formed between that plate in the first group and that plate in the second group. When one of the plates in the second group is positioned below one of the plates in the first group, a second space is formed between that plate in the first group and that plate in the second group. The first space provides fluid communication between the low-pressure plate inlet and the low-pressure plate outlet, and blocks fluid communication between the high-pressure plate inlet and the high-pressure plate outlet. The second space provides fluid communication between the high-pressure plate inlet and the high-pressure plate outlet, and blocks fluid communication between the low-pressure plate inlet and the low-pressure plate outlet. The low-pressure plate inlet and the low-pressure plate outlet have a first cross-sectional shape, and the high-pressure plate inlet and the high-pressure plate outlet have a second cross-sectional shape. The first cross-sectional shape is different from the second cross-sectional shape. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary thermal management system.

[0009] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the thermal management system, showing the fluid flow path.

[0010] Figure 3 According to one embodiment, Figure 2 Top perspective view of the heat exchanger in the thermal management system.

[0011] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Bottom perspective view of the heat exchanger.

[0012] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger.

[0013] Figures 6A to 6C According to one embodiment, Figure 3 A view of the heat exchanger plates.

[0014] Figure 7 According to one embodiment, Figure 3 A perspective view of the end plates of a heat exchanger.

[0015] Figure 8 According to one embodiment, Figure 3 A perspective view of the top plate of the heat exchanger.

[0016] Figure 9 According to one embodiment, Figure 3 Top view of the first type of plate of the heat exchanger.

[0017] Figure 10 According to one embodiment, Figure 3 Top view of the second type of plate of the heat exchanger.

[0018] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 Type 1 plates and Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the second type of plates stacked together.

[0019] Figure 12 According to one embodiment, Figure 9 The first type of panel has a top view of the partition wall.

[0020] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 Type 1 plates and Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the second type of plates stacked together.

[0021] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of a plate with a turbulence promoter according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the plates and turbulence promoters stacked together.

[0023] Figures 16A to 16BThis is a detailed view of a turbulence promoter according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 17 This is a detailed view of a turbulence promoter according to another embodiment.

[0025] Figure 18 This is a detailed view of a turbulence promoter according to yet another embodiment.

[0026] Figure 19 According to one embodiment, Figure 3 A perspective view of the heat exchanger installed on the valve block.

[0027] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 Bottom view of the heat exchanger and valve block.

[0028] Figure 21 yes Figure 19 Cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger and valve block.

[0029] Figure 22 yes Figure 19 Another cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger and valve block.

[0030] Figure 23 According to one embodiment, Figure 19 Top perspective view of the heat exchanger and valve block, and the second valve block.

[0031] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 Bottom perspective view of the heat exchanger, valve block and second valve block.

[0032] Figure 25 yes Figure 23 Cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger, valve block and second valve block.

[0033] Figure 26 This is a perspective view of a heat exchanger according to another embodiment.

[0034] Figure 27 This is a perspective view of a heat exchanger according to another embodiment.

[0035] Figures 28A to 28C This is a top view of the plate body for a heat exchanger according to one embodiment.

[0036] Figures 29A to 2 9C is a top view of a plate body for a heat exchanger according to one embodiment.

[0037] Figure 30 This is a top view of the plate body for a heat exchanger according to one embodiment.

[0038] Figure 31This is a top view of the plate body for a heat exchanger according to one embodiment.

[0039] Figures 32A to 32D This is a top view of the plate body for a heat exchanger according to one embodiment.

[0040] Figures 33A to 33B This is a top view of the plate body for a heat exchanger according to one embodiment.

[0041] Figures 34A to 34B This is a top view of the plate body for a heat exchanger according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Before explaining any construction of the invention in detail, it should be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the construction details and component arrangements illustrated in the following description or drawings. The invention can have other constructions and can be practiced or implemented in various ways.

[0043] Figures 1 to 2 An example of a thermal management system is shown, which is used, for example, in an electric or hybrid vehicle. The thermal management system 10 cools the power source (e.g., battery) of the electric vehicle and cools the passenger compartment of the electric vehicle.

[0044] The thermal management system 10 includes a heat exchanger 14, a cryogenic generator 18, a compartment evaporator 22, a compressor 26, a condenser 30, a first expansion valve 62, and a second expansion valve 66. In some embodiments, the thermal management system 10 may include more components. In some embodiments, the thermal management system 10 may include fewer components.

[0045] The components of the thermal management system 10 are connected via pipeline 34. A fluid (e.g., refrigerant) flows through the thermal management system 10 via pipeline 34. As the fluid flows through the thermal management system 10, it changes between a low-temperature, low-pressure state and a warm, high-pressure state.

[0046] For simplicity, a fluid in a low-pressure state will be referred to as a "low-pressure fluid," and a fluid in a high-pressure state will be referred to as a "high-pressure fluid." In the illustrated embodiment, the low-pressure fluid and the high-pressure fluid are the same fluid, but in different states. In some embodiments, the high-pressure fluid and the low-pressure fluid may be different fluids.

[0047] Line 34 includes a first low-pressure line 38 (e.g., a low-pressure inlet line), a second low-pressure line 42 (e.g., a low-pressure inlet line), a third low-pressure line 46 (e.g., a low-pressure outlet line), a first high-pressure line 50 (e.g., a high-pressure inlet line), and a second high-pressure line 54 (e.g., a high-pressure outlet line). The first low-pressure line 38 provides fluid communication between the cryogenic generator 18 and the heat exchanger 14. The second low-pressure line 42 provides fluid communication between the compartment evaporator 22 and the heat exchanger 14. The third low-pressure line 46 provides fluid communication between the heat exchanger 14 and the compressor 26. The third low-pressure line 46 may be a suction line. The first high-pressure line 50 provides fluid communication between the condenser 30 and the heat exchanger 14. The second high-pressure line 54 provides fluid communication between the heat exchanger 14 and the first and second expansion valves 62, 66. The second high-pressure line 54 may include a first branch 56 connected to the first expansion valve 62 and a second branch 58 connected to the second expansion valve 66.

[0048] Pipeline 34 further defines a first low-pressure flow path FP1, a second low-pressure flow path FP2, and a high-pressure flow path FP3. When the fluid flows along the first low-pressure flow path FP1 and the second low-pressure flow path FP2, the fluid is in a low-pressure state. When the fluid flows along the high-pressure flow path FP3, the fluid is in a high-pressure state.

[0049] The first low-pressure flow path FP1 extends from the first expansion valve 62 to the compressor 26. The first low-pressure flow path FP1 extends through the first low-pressure line 38, the heat exchanger 14, and the third low-pressure line 46.

[0050] The second low-pressure flow path FP2 extends from the second expansion valve 66 to the compressor 26. The second low-pressure flow path FP2 extends through the second low-pressure line 42, the heat exchanger 14, and the third low-pressure line 46.

[0051] The high-pressure flow path FP3 extends from the compressor 26 to the first and second expansion valves 62 and 66. The high-pressure flow path FP3 extends through the condenser 30, the first high-pressure line 50, the heat exchanger 14, and the second high-pressure line 54.

[0052] The components of the thermal management system 10 are briefly described below. A heat exchanger 14 transfers heat between a high-pressure fluid flowing along a high-pressure flow path FP3 and a low-pressure fluid flowing along a first low-pressure flow path FP1 and a second low-pressure flow path FP2. A cryogenic generator 18 uses the low-pressure fluid in the first flow path FP1 to cool the coolant. This coolant is used to cool the vehicle's battery and powertrain. A cabin evaporator 22 uses the low-pressure fluid flowing in the second flow path FP2 to cool the cabin by cooling the air flowing into the cabin. A compressor 26 is used to change the fluid condition from a low-temperature, low-pressure fluid to a high-temperature, superheated, high-pressure fluid. A condenser 30 cools the superheated fluid into a warm, high-pressure fluid. The condenser 30 can be a liquid and / or cabin condenser, used to provide warm air to the cabin. First and second expansion valves 62, 66 are used to change the high-pressure fluid to a low-pressure fluid.

[0053] The thermal management system 10 can operate in three modes—a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode—based on the external temperature and the operating conditions of the vehicle's engine. In the first mode, the external temperature can be warm, and the engine can run, allowing the cryogenic generator 18 to cool the battery and the cabin evaporator 22 to cool the cabin. In the second mode, the external temperature can be cold, and the engine can run, allowing the cryogenic generator 18 to operate to cool the battery, but the cabin evaporator 22 is not used. In the third mode, the external temperature can be warm, and the engine can be off, allowing the cryogenic generator 18 to be off, but the cabin evaporator 22 is used to cool the cabin. In the first mode, low-pressure fluid can flow along a first low-pressure flow path FP1 and a second low-pressure flow path FP2. In the second mode, flow along the second low-pressure flow path FP2 is blocked, while flow along the first low-pressure flow path FP1 is allowed. In the third mode, flow along the first low-pressure flow path FP1 is blocked, while flow along the second low-pressure flow path FP2 is allowed.

[0054] Figures 3 to 5 An embodiment of a heat exchanger 14 that can be used in a thermal management system 10 is illustrated. As described above, the heat exchanger 14 transfers heat between a high-pressure fluid flowing along a high-pressure flow path FP3 (as it flows through the heat exchanger 14) and a low-pressure fluid flowing along a first low-pressure flow path FP1 and a second low-pressure flow path FP2 (as it flows through the heat exchanger 14). The heat exchanger 14 transfers heat from the high-pressure fluid to the low-pressure fluid to improve the efficiency of the thermal management system 10.

[0055] The heat exchanger 14 includes a first end 70 (e.g., a base end), a second end 74 (e.g., a top end), and plates 78 stacked between the first end 70 and the second end 74. The heat exchanger 14 is a plate heat exchanger.

[0056] refer to Figure 4 The first end 70 of the heat exchanger 14 includes an opening. This opening allows fluid to enter and exit the heat exchanger 14. The opening may include a first low-pressure inlet 82, a second low-pressure inlet 86, a low-pressure outlet 90, a high-pressure inlet 94, and a high-pressure outlet 98. In some embodiments, some of these openings (e.g., the low-pressure outlet and the high-pressure inlet) may be located on the second end 74 of the heat exchanger 14. In some embodiments, the first low-pressure line 38 and the second low-pressure line 42 may be merged upstream of the heat exchanger 14, such that the heat exchanger 14 includes only one low-pressure inlet.

[0057] A first low-pressure inlet 82 is connected to a first low-pressure line 38 to supply low-pressure fluid. A second low-pressure inlet 86 is connected to a second low-pressure line 42 to supply low-pressure fluid. A low-pressure outlet 90 is connected to a third low-pressure line 46 to supply low-pressure fluid. The low-pressure outlet 90 discharges low-pressure fluid from the heat exchanger 14 to the third low-pressure line 46. A high-pressure inlet 94 is connected to a first high-pressure line 50 to supply high-pressure fluid. A high-pressure outlet 98 is connected to a second high-pressure line 54 to supply high-pressure fluid. The high-pressure outlet 98 discharges high-pressure fluid to the second high-pressure line 54.

[0058] refer to Figure 3 The second end 74 of the heat exchanger 14 includes a cover plate 102. The cover plate 102 prevents fluid from leaving the heat exchanger 14 at the second end 74. The cover plate 102 may include a recess 106. The recess 106 is aligned with an opening on the first end 70.

[0059] refer to Figure 5 Plate 78 allows fluid to flow between adjacent plates. Adjacent plates (e.g., plates stacked on top of each other) form a space 122 between them. Fluid flows across the plates 78 in the space 122. The space 122 has a first height H1. Adjacent plates are spaced apart by the first height H1. In some embodiments, some of the plates 78 are spaced apart by different heights (e.g., closer or farther apart).

[0060] refer to Figures 6A to 11 Each of the plates 78 includes a plate body 110 (e.g., a plate surface), a wall 114, and a plate opening 118. In the illustrated embodiment, the plate body 110 is pentagonal in shape and has five corners. In other embodiments, the plate body 110 may have different shapes (e.g., rectangular, triangular, circular).

[0061] Wall 114 extends along the periphery of plate body 110. In the illustrated embodiment, wall 114 is angled. More specifically, wall 114 extends upward (e.g., toward the second end 74 of heat exchanger 14) and outward (e.g., away from the center of plate body 110).

[0062] A plate opening 118 is provided on the plate body 110. The plate opening 118 includes a first low-pressure opening 126 (e.g., a low-pressure plate inlet), a second low-pressure opening 130 (e.g., a low-pressure plate inlet), a third low-pressure opening 134 (e.g., a low-pressure plate outlet), a first high-pressure opening 138 (e.g., a high-pressure plate inlet), and a second high-pressure opening 142 (e.g., a high-pressure plate outlet). The first low-pressure opening 126 is fluidly connected to a first low-pressure inlet 82. The second low-pressure opening 130 is fluidly connected to a second low-pressure inlet 86. The third low-pressure opening 134 is fluidly connected to a low-pressure outlet 90. The first high-pressure opening 138 is fluidly connected to a high-pressure inlet 94. The second high-pressure opening 142 is fluidly connected to a high-pressure outlet 98.

[0063] Each of the plate openings 118 may include a lip 164 extending along the periphery of each of the plate openings 118. As described in more detail below, the lip 164 may extend toward a first end 70 or toward a second end 74. The lip 164 may control the flow of fluid across the plate body 110.

[0064] One of the openings 118 in the plate is arranged adjacent to each corner of the plate body 110. The openings 118 are arranged such that the high-pressure openings (e.g., the first high-pressure opening 138 and the second high-pressure opening 142) are not adjacent to each other. The high-pressure openings are separated by low-pressure openings (e.g., the first low-pressure opening 126, the second low-pressure opening 130, or the third low-pressure opening 134). The third low-pressure opening 134 is separated from the first low-pressure opening 126 and the second low-pressure opening 130 by one of the high-pressure openings. The first low-pressure opening 126 is adjacent to the second low-pressure opening 130.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the first low-pressure opening 126 and the third low-pressure opening 134 are separated by a second distance D2. The second low-pressure opening 130 and the third low-pressure opening 134 are separated by a third distance D3. The second distance D2 and the third distance D3 are greater than the first distance D1. The third distance D3 is the same as the second distance D2. In some embodiments, the third distance D3 is greater than the second distance D2.

[0066] The first high-voltage opening 138 and the second high-voltage opening 142 are separated by a fourth distance D4. The fourth distance D4 is greater than the first distance D1. The fourth distance D4 is less than the second distance D2 and the third distance D3. The fourth distance D4 can be 90% of the second distance D2. The fourth distance D4 can be 80% of the second distance D2. In some embodiments, the fourth distance D4 is the same as the second distance D2 and the third distance D3. In some embodiments, the fourth distance D4 is greater than the second distance D2 and the third distance D3.

[0067] refer to Figure 6C Each of the openings 118 in the plate is spaced from the periphery of the wall 114 or the plate body 110 by a first distance D1. The first distance D1 is measured from the edge of the opening closest to the wall 114 to the wall 114. In some embodiments, some of the openings may be spaced from the wall 114 by a distance greater than the first distance D1.

[0068] refer to Figure 5 The plate 78 may include a base plate 146, an end plate 150, a set of first plates 154, and a set of second plates 158. The plate 78 is arranged such that the base plate 146 is disposed on a first end 70 of the heat exchanger 14, and the end plate 150 is disposed on a second end 74 of the heat exchanger 14. The set of first plates 154 and the set of second plates 158 are stacked between the base plate 146 and the end plate 150. The set of first plates 154 and the set of second plates 158 are stacked alternately such that one plate of the first plate 154 is adjacent to one plate of the second plate 158.

[0069] refer to Figure 7 The base plate 146 is located near the first end 70 of the heat exchanger 14. In some embodiments, the base plate 146 defines the first end 70 of the heat exchanger 14 such that a first low-pressure opening 126 defines a first low-pressure inlet 82, a second low-pressure opening 130 defines a second low-pressure inlet 86, a third low-pressure opening 134 defines a low-pressure outlet 90, a first high-pressure opening 138 defines a high-pressure inlet 94, and a second high-pressure opening 142 defines a high-pressure outlet 98. The base plate 146 may prevent fluid from flowing across the plate body 110.

[0070] The base plate 146 may include positioning feature positions 162. Positioning feature positions 162 receive mating positioning features to allow the heat exchanger 14 to be coupled to another element in the system or to a mounting plate.

[0071] refer to Figure 11 The first plate 154 and the second plate 158 are stacked alternately, such that the high-pressure fluid flows adjacent to the low-pressure fluid, and the high-pressure fluid can transfer heat to the low-pressure fluid. The low-pressure fluid can flow in a cross-flow, counter-flow, or parallel flow relative to the high-pressure fluid.

[0072] refer to Figure 9 On the first plate 154, high-pressure openings (e.g., first high-pressure opening 138 and second high-pressure opening 142) have a first lip 164A. The first lip 164A extends upward toward the second end 74 of the heat exchanger 14. On the first plate 154, low-pressure openings (e.g., first low-pressure opening 126, second low-pressure opening 130, and third low-pressure opening 134) have a second lip 164B. The second lip 164B extends downward toward the first end 70 of the heat exchanger 14.

[0073] refer to Figure 10 On the second plate 158, the low-pressure opening has an upwardly extending first lip 164A, and the high-pressure opening has a downwardly extending second lip 164B.

[0074] Lips 164 between adjacent plates provide or prevent fluid communication between some of the plate openings 118. For example, when the first plate 154 is stacked under the second plate 158, the second lip 164B surrounding the low-pressure opening of the first plate 154 does not contact and is spaced apart from the first lip 164A surrounding the low-pressure opening of the second plate 158, allowing low-pressure fluid to flow across the plate body 110 of the first plate 154. Furthermore, the first lip 164A surrounding the high-pressure opening of the first plate 154 engages (e.g., contacts) with the second lip 164B surrounding the high-pressure opening of the second plate 158 to form a seal. This seal prevents high-pressure fluid from flowing across the plate body 110 of the first plate 154.

[0075] When one of the first plates 154 is positioned below one of the second plates 158, a first space 122A (e.g., a channel, passage, etc.) is formed between one of the first plates 154 and one of the second plates 158. The first space 122A allows low-pressure fluid to flow across the plate body 110 of the first plate 154 and prevents high-pressure fluid from flowing across the plate body 110 of the first plate 154. More specifically, the first space 122A provides fluid communication between a first low-pressure opening 126 and a third low-pressure opening 134, provides fluid communication between a second low-pressure opening 130 and a third low-pressure opening 134, and prevents fluid communication between a first high-pressure opening 138 and a second high-pressure opening 142.

[0076] When one of the second plates 158 is positioned below one of the first plates 154, a second space 122B (e.g., a channel, passage, etc.) is formed between one of the first plates 154 and one of the second plates 158. The second space 122B allows high-pressure fluid to flow across the plate body 110 of the second plate 158 and prevents low-pressure fluid from flowing across the plate body 110 of the second plate 158. More specifically, the second space 122B provides fluid communication between a first high-pressure opening 138 and a second high-pressure opening 142, prevents fluid communication between a first low-pressure opening 126 and a third low-pressure opening 134, and prevents fluid communication between a second low-pressure opening 130 and a third low-pressure opening 134.

[0077] refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 The first type of plate 154 may include a wall 166. The wall 166 extends partially along the plate body 110. The wall 166 is located between a first low-pressure opening 126 and a second low-pressure opening 130. The wall 166 at least partially prevents fluid communication between the first low-pressure opening 126 and the second low-pressure opening 130. More specifically, the wall 166 prevents direct fluid communication between the first low-pressure opening 126 and the second low-pressure opening 130.

[0078] Wall 166 guides low-pressure fluid from the first and second low-pressure openings 126, 130 to the third low-pressure opening 134. Wall 166 may be a separate component connected to plate 78, may be integrally formed with plate 78, or may be formed in a turbulence promoter disposed on plate 78 (discussed in detail below). When the thermal management system 10 operates in a second mode (e.g., when the cryogenic generator 18 is running and the compartment evaporator 22 is off), wall 166 prevents liquid low-pressure fluid from accumulating in the second low-pressure opening 130. When the thermal management system 10 operates in a third mode (e.g., when the compartment evaporator 22 is running and the cryogenic generator 18 is off), wall 166 prevents liquid low-pressure fluid from accumulating in the first low-pressure opening 126.

[0079] Wall 166 may have a height H2 and a length D5. Height H2 may be the same as the height H1 of space 122. Height H2 may be less than height H1. Length D5 may be less than the distance D2 between the first low-pressure opening 126 and the third low-pressure opening 134. Length D5 may be less than the distance D3 between the second low-pressure opening 130 and the third low-pressure opening 134. Length D5 may be less than three-quarters of the distances D2 and D3. Length D5 may be less than half of the distances D2 or D3. Length D5 may be less than one-third of the distances D2 or D3. Length D5 may be one-quarter of the distances D2 or D3.

[0080] refer to Figures 14 to 15Some of the plates in the plates 78 may include turbulence promoters 170 disposed on the plate body 110. The turbulence promoters 170 extend partially across the plate body 110. The turbulence promoters 170 may be made of a porous body that allows fluid to flow through them. As fluid flows across the turbulence promoters 170 and the plate body 110, the turbulence promoters 170 increase the turbulence of the fluid. Increased turbulence improves the amount of heat transfer between the low-pressure and high-pressure fluids. In some embodiments, the turbulence promoters 170 are disposed on each of the plates 78. In some embodiments, the turbulence promoters 170 are disposed only on a first-type plate 154 or a second-type plate 158. In some embodiments, the turbulence promoters 170 are disposed only on the first-type plate 154 and the second-type plate 158. In some embodiments, the turbulence promoters 170 extend across the entire plate body 110.

[0081] The turbulence promoter 170 may have a height H3. Height H3 may be the same as the height H1 of space 122. Height H3 may be less than height H1. Height H1 may be the same as the height H2 of wall 166. Height H1 may be greater than height H2.

[0082] The turbulence promoter 170 may include a channel 174. The channel 174 extends partially across the turbulence promoter 170. The channel 174 exposes a portion of the plate body 110. The channel 174 allows fluid to be distributed laterally in the main flow direction, thereby reducing the frictional pressure drop as low-pressure fluid flows from the inlet to the outlet. In the illustrated embodiment, the turbulence promoter 170 includes three channels 174. In some embodiments, the turbulence promoter 170 may include more channels 174.

[0083] Turn Figure 16A and Figure 16B The turbulence promoter 170 may be a slit-offset turbulence promoter comprising fins. The fins have a rectangular shape. More specifically, the fins have a length L, a fin width S (e.g., fin pitch), a thickness T, and a height H3. The length L is less than the fin width S. In some embodiments, the length L is greater than the fin width S.

[0084] In embodiments where the length L is less than the fin width S, the distance D1 between the plate opening 118 and the wall 114 is greater than the fin width S. In some embodiments, the distance D1 is greater than 1.5 times the fin width S. In some embodiments, the distance D1 is at least twice the fin width S. In some embodiments, the distance D1 is not greater than three times the fin width S. In some embodiments, the distance D1 is twice the fin width S.

[0085] Turn Figure 17The plate 78 may include a herringbone pattern 171 formed on the plate body 110 in place of the turbulence promoter 170. More specifically, the plate body 110 includes ridges extending in different directions to form the herringbone pattern 171. The herringbone pattern 171 increases the turbulence of fluid flowing across the plate body 110. In some embodiments, both the first plate 154 and the second plate 158 may include the herringbone pattern 171 on the plate body 110. In some embodiments, the first plate 154 may include a plate body 110 having the herringbone pattern 171, while the second plate 158 has the turbulence promoter 170 disposed on the plate body 110. In some embodiments, the second plate 158 may include a plate body 110 having the herringbone pattern 171, while the first plate 154 has the turbulence promoter 170 disposed on the plate body 110.

[0086] Turn Figure 18 Plate 78 may include a recessed pattern 172 formed on plate body 110 in place of turbulence promoter 170. The recessed pattern 172 increases the turbulence of fluid flowing across plate body 110. In some embodiments, first plate 154 may include plate body 110 having recessed pattern 172, while second plate 158 has turbulence promoter 170 disposed on plate body 110. In some embodiments, second plate 158 may include plate body 110 having recessed pattern 172, while first plate 154 has turbulence promoter 170 disposed on plate body 110. In some embodiments, both first plate 154 and second plate 158 may include recessed pattern 172 on plate body 110.

[0087] refer to Figure 19 and Figure 20 The heat exchanger 14 can be coupled to the mounting plate 190. More specifically, a first end 70 of the heat exchanger 14 is coupled to the mounting plate 190. The mounting plate 190 allows the heat exchanger 14 to be coupled to different components. The mounting plate 190 includes an opening aligned with the opening of the heat exchanger 14. The heat exchanger 14 can be detachably coupled to the mounting plate 190 by fasteners. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger 14 is brazed to the mounting plate 190.

[0088] refer to Figures 19 to 25The valve block 194 can be connected to the mounting plate 190, allowing the heat exchanger 14 to be in fluid communication with the valve block 194. The valve block 194 includes a first low-pressure passage 198, a second low-pressure passage 202, and a high-pressure passage 206. The first low-pressure passage 198 is in fluid communication with a second low-pressure inlet 86 and is connected to a second low-pressure line 42. The first low-pressure passage 198 supplies low-pressure fluid from the second low-pressure line 42 to the heat exchanger 14. The second low-pressure passage 202 is in fluid communication with a low-pressure outlet 90 and is connected to a third low-pressure line 46. The second low-pressure passage 202 discharges low-pressure fluid from the heat exchanger 14 to the third low-pressure line 46. The high-pressure valve passage 206 is in fluid communication with a high-pressure inlet 94 and is connected to a first high-pressure line 50. The high-pressure valve passage 206 supplies high-pressure fluid to the heat exchanger 14.

[0089] Valve block 194 may include mounting hole 196. Mounting hole 196 supports sensor 210. Sensor 210 may be a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, or a pressure-temperature sensor. Heat exchanger 14 may include a first sensor 210A in fluid communication with a third low-pressure line 46, such that the first sensor 210A measures low-pressure fluid as it flows along the third low-pressure line 46. Heat exchanger 14 may include a second sensor 210B in fluid communication with a first high-pressure line 50, such that the second sensor 210B measures high-pressure fluid as it flows along the first high-pressure line 50.

[0090] refer to Figures 23 to 25 The heat exchanger 14 may include a second valve block 214 connected to valve block 194. The second valve block 214 is in fluid communication with valve block 194 and the heat exchanger 14. More specifically, the second valve block 214 is in fluid communication with a first high-pressure line 50. The second valve block 214 includes a high-pressure valve passage 218. The high-pressure valve passage 218 is in fluid communication with a high-pressure valve passage 206 of valve block 194 and a high-pressure inlet 94 of the heat exchanger 14. The high-pressure valve passage 218 supplies high-pressure fluid to the heat exchanger 14, and more specifically, to the high-pressure inlet 94 of the heat exchanger 14.

[0091] Figure 26 Another embodiment of heat exchanger 1014 is illustrated. Many features of heat exchanger 1014 are similar to those discussed above with respect to the first embodiment of heat exchanger 14. Therefore, these features will not be repeated below. Features similar to those described above will be labeled with reference numerals one thousand higher than the corresponding feature numbers above.

[0092] Heat exchanger 1014 includes a check valve 1218 mounted thereon. The check valve 1218 is fluidly connected to a second low-pressure inlet (e.g., fluidly connected to the low-pressure inlet of a vehicle compartment evaporator). When the vehicle compartment evaporator is not in use, the check valve 1218 prevents low-pressure fluid from flowing back towards the vehicle compartment evaporator. The check valve 1218 also prevents low-pressure fluid from accumulating in the line when the vehicle compartment evaporator is not in use. A valve block can fluidly connect the second low-pressure inlet to the check valve 1218. In some embodiments, heat exchanger 1014 may include a second check valve (not shown) fluidly connected to a cryogenic generator and a first low-pressure inlet.

[0093] The heat exchanger 1014 further includes an expansion valve 1062 mounted to the heat exchanger 1014. The expansion valve 1062 is fluidly connected to the high-pressure outlet of the heat exchanger 1014. In some embodiments, a valve block may be provided that fluidly connects the high-pressure outlet to the expansion valve 1062. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger 1014 may include a second expansion valve.

[0094] In the illustrated embodiment, expansion valve 1062 is adjacent to check valve 1218. In some embodiments, expansion valve 1062 may be located on a first end (e.g., base) of heat exchanger 1014, while check valve 1218 may be located on a second end (e.g., top end) of heat exchanger. For example, heat exchanger 1014 may be arranged such that a second low-pressure inlet is located at the second end of heat exchanger 1014, while a high-pressure outlet is located at the first end of heat exchanger 1014.

[0095] Figure 27 Another embodiment of the heat exchanger 2014 is illustrated. Many features of the heat exchanger 2014 are similar to those discussed above with respect to the first embodiment of the heat exchanger 14. Therefore, these features will not be repeated below. Features similar to those described above will be labeled with reference numerals two thousand higher than the corresponding feature numbers described above.

[0096] Heat exchanger 2014 includes a first end 2070 (e.g., a base) and a second end 2074 (e.g., a top end). Unlike heat exchanger 14 (where all openings are located on the first end 70), heat exchanger 2014 has openings located on both the first end 2070 and the second end 2074. More specifically, a second low-pressure inlet (e.g., a low-pressure inlet fluidly connected to a compartment evaporator), a low-pressure outlet, and a high-pressure inlet are located on the first end 2070 of heat exchanger 2014, while a first low-pressure inlet (e.g., a low-pressure inlet fluidly connected to a cryogenic generator) and a high-pressure outlet are located on the second end 2074 of heat exchanger 2014.

[0097] The heat exchanger 2014 further includes a valve block 2214 disposed on a second end 2074 of the heat exchanger 2014. The valve block 2214 supports a first expansion valve 2062 (e.g., an electronic expansion valve) and a second expansion valve 2066 (e.g., an electronic expansion valve). The valve block 2214 fluidly connects a high-pressure outlet to the first expansion valve 2062 and the second expansion valve 2066. The first expansion valve 2062 is fluidly connected to a cryogenic generator. The second expansion valve 2066 is fluidly connected to a cabin evaporator. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger 2014 may include only one expansion valve 2062. In these embodiments, the first expansion valve 2062 is fluidly connected to the cryogenic generator, while the cabin evaporator is controlled by an expansion valve directly disposed at its inlet.

[0098] Figures 28A to 28C Another embodiment of the plate body 3110 is illustrated. Many features of the plate body 3110 are the same as those described above regarding the plate body 110 ( Figures 6A to 6C The features discussed in the first embodiment are similar to those described above. Therefore, these features will not be repeated below. Features similar to those described above will be labeled with reference numerals that are three thousand higher than the corresponding feature numbers described above.

[0099] The plate body 3110 may have a rectangular shape. More specifically, the plate body 3110 may have a square shape. The plate body 3110 includes a first side 3222, a second side 3226 opposite to the first side 3222, a first end 3230, and a second end 3234 opposite to the first end 3230. The plate body 3110 further includes: a first corner portion 3238 connecting the first side 3222 and the first end 3230; a second corner portion 3242 connecting the first side 3222 and the second end 3234; a third corner portion 3246 connecting the first end 3230 and the second side 3226; and a fourth corner portion 3250 connecting the second side 3226 and the second end 3234.

[0100] The plate body 3110 includes a first low-pressure opening 3126 (e.g., a low-pressure plate inlet), a second low-pressure opening 3130 (e.g., a low-pressure plate inlet), a third low-pressure opening 3134 (e.g., a low-pressure plate outlet), a first high-pressure opening 3138 (e.g., a high-pressure plate inlet), and a second high-pressure opening 3142 (e.g., a high-pressure plate outlet). The first low-pressure opening 3126 is arranged adjacent to a first corner 3238. The second low-pressure opening 3130 is arranged adjacent to a third corner 3246. The third low-pressure opening 3134 is arranged along a second end 3234. The first high-pressure opening 3138 is arranged along a first side 3222. The second high-pressure opening 3142 is arranged along a second side 3226.

[0101] The first low-pressure opening 3126 is positioned at a first distance D31 from the third low-pressure opening 3134. The second low-pressure opening 3130 is positioned at a second distance D32 from the third low-pressure opening 3134. The second distance D32 is the same as the first distance D31.

[0102] On the plate body 3110, a first low-pressure fluid path FP31 crosses the plate body 3110 in a first direction, extending from a first low-pressure opening 3126 to a third low-pressure opening 3134. A second low-pressure fluid path FP32 crosses the plate body 3110 in a second direction, extending from a second low-pressure opening 3130 to a third low-pressure opening 3134. A first high-pressure fluid path FP33 crosses the plate body 3110 in a third direction, extending from a first high-pressure opening 3138 to a second high-pressure opening 3142, or vice versa. The first low-pressure fluid path FP31 and the second low-pressure fluid path FP32 are transverse to the high-pressure fluid path FP33.

[0103] In some cases (e.g., when the plate body 3110 allows flow from the first and second low-pressure openings 3126, 3130 to the third low-pressure opening 3134, and blocks flow from the first high-pressure opening 3138 and the second high-pressure opening 3142), the plate body 3110 may include a wall 3166. The wall 3166 is located between the first low-pressure opening 3126 and the second low-pressure opening 3130. The wall 3166 generally extends transversely to the first low-pressure flow path FP31 and the second low-pressure flow path FP32.

[0104] Figures 29A to 2 Figure 9C illustrates another embodiment of the plate body 4110. Many features of the plate body 4110 are similar to those discussed above with respect to the fourth embodiment of the plate body 3110. Therefore, these features will not be repeated below. Features similar to those described above will be labeled with reference numerals one thousand higher than the corresponding feature numbers described above.

[0105] The plate body 4110 may have a rectangular shape. More specifically, the plate body 4110 may have a square shape. The plate body 4110 includes a first side 4222, a second side 4226 opposite to the first side 4222, a first end 4230, and a second end 4234 opposite to the first end 4230. The plate body 4110 further includes: a first corner portion 4238 connecting the first side 4222 and the first end 4230; a second corner portion 4242 connecting the first side 4222 and the second end 4234; a third corner portion 4246 connecting the first end 4230 and the second side 4226; and a fourth corner portion 4250 connecting the second side 4226 and the second end 4234.

[0106] The plate body 4110 includes a first low-pressure opening 4126 (e.g., a low-pressure plate inlet), a second low-pressure opening 4130 (e.g., a low-pressure plate inlet), a third low-pressure opening 4134 (e.g., a low-pressure plate outlet), a first high-pressure opening 4138 (e.g., a high-pressure plate inlet), and a second high-pressure opening 4142 (e.g., a high-pressure plate outlet). The first low-pressure opening 4126 is arranged adjacent to a first corner 4238. The second low-pressure opening 4130 is arranged adjacent to a third corner 4246. The third low-pressure opening 4134 is arranged adjacent to a second corner 4242. The first high-pressure opening 4138 is arranged along a first side 4222. The second high-pressure opening 4142 is arranged along a second side 4226.

[0107] The distance between the first low-pressure opening 4126 and the third low-pressure opening 4134 is a first distance D41. The distance between the second low-pressure opening 4130 and the third low-pressure opening 4134 is a second distance D42. The second distance D42 is greater than the first distance D41. The second distance D42 can be less than twice the first distance D41. More specifically, the second distance D42 is 1.6 times the first distance D41.

[0108] On the plate body 4110, a first low-pressure fluid path FP41 crosses the plate body 4110 in a first direction, extending from a first low-pressure opening 4126 to a third low-pressure opening 4134. A second low-pressure fluid path FP42 crosses the plate body 4110 in a second direction, extending from a second low-pressure opening 4130 to a third low-pressure opening 4134. A first high-pressure fluid path FP43 crosses the plate body 4110 in a third direction, extending from a first high-pressure opening 4138 to a second high-pressure opening 4142, or vice versa. The first low-pressure fluid path FP41 is transverse to the second low-pressure fluid path FP42 and the high-pressure fluid path FP43. More specifically, the first low-pressure fluid path FP41 is transverse to the second low-pressure fluid path FP42 and perpendicular to the high-pressure fluid path FP43. The first low-pressure fluid path FP41 and the high-pressure fluid path FP43 are arranged in a cross-flow configuration. The second low-pressure fluid path FP42 is transverse to the high-pressure fluid path FP43, so that the second low-pressure fluid path FP42 and the high-pressure fluid path FP43 are arranged in a transverse flow configuration.

[0109] In some cases (e.g., when the plate body 4110 allows flow from the first and second low-pressure openings 4126, 4130 to the third low-pressure opening 4134, and blocks flow from the first high-pressure opening 4138 and the second high-pressure opening 4142), the plate body 4110 may include a wall 4166. The wall 4166 is located between the first low-pressure opening 4126 and the second low-pressure opening 4130. The wall 4166 generally extends in the same direction as the second low-pressure flow path FP42.

[0110] Figure 30 Another embodiment of the plate body 5110 is illustrated. Many features of the plate body 5110 are similar to those discussed above with respect to the fourth embodiment of the plate body 3110. Therefore, these features will not be repeated below. Features similar to those described above will be labeled with reference numerals two thousand higher than the corresponding feature numbers described above.

[0111] The plate body 5110 includes a first low-pressure opening 5128 (e.g., a low-pressure plate inlet), a second low-pressure opening 5134 (e.g., a low-pressure plate outlet), a first high-pressure opening 5138 (e.g., a high-pressure plate inlet), and a second high-pressure opening 5142 (e.g., a high-pressure plate outlet). Unlike the plate body 4110 which includes two low-pressure inlets (e.g., a first low-pressure opening 4126 and a second low-pressure opening 4130), the plate body 5110 includes only one low-pressure inlet (e.g., the first low-pressure opening 5128). In this embodiment, the first and second low-pressure lines are merged upstream of the heat exchanger.

[0112] The first low-pressure opening 5128 and the second low-pressure opening 5134 have a first cross-sectional shape. The first high-pressure opening 5138 and the second high-pressure opening 5142 have a second cross-sectional shape. The first cross-sectional shape is different from the second cross-sectional shape. More specifically, the area of ​​the first cross-sectional shape is larger than the area of ​​the second cross-sectional shape.

[0113] In the illustrated embodiment, the first cross-sectional shape is a circle with a length (e.g., diameter) L51, and the second cross-sectional shape is a circle with a length (e.g., diameter) L52. The length L51 is greater than the length L52. More specifically, the length L51 is twice the length L52. The length L51 may be less than three times the length L52. In some embodiments, the length L51 may be 2.9 times the length L52.

[0114] Figure 31 Another embodiment of the plate body 6110 is illustrated. Many features of the plate body 6110 are similar to those discussed above with respect to the sixth embodiment of the plate body 3110. Therefore, these features will not be repeated below. Features similar to those described above will be labeled with reference numerals one thousand higher than the corresponding feature numbers described above.

[0115] The plate body 6110 includes a first low-pressure opening 6128 (e.g., a low-pressure plate inlet), a second low-pressure opening 6134 (e.g., a low-pressure plate outlet), a first high-pressure opening 6138 (e.g., a high-pressure plate inlet), and a second high-pressure opening 6142 (e.g., a high-pressure plate outlet). The first low-pressure opening 6128 and the second low-pressure opening 6134 have a first cross-sectional shape. The first high-pressure opening 6138 and the second high-pressure opening 6142 have a second cross-sectional shape. The first cross-sectional shape is different from the second cross-sectional shape.

[0116] The shapes of the first low-pressure opening 6128 and the second low-pressure opening 6134 (e.g., the first cross-sectional shape) are non-circular. More specifically, the first cross-sectional shape is oblong. The first cross-sectional shape has a length L61. The cross-sectional shapes of the first high-pressure opening 6138 and the second high-pressure opening 6142 (e.g., the second cross-sectional shape) are circular. The second shape has a length (e.g., diameter) L62. The length L61 is greater than the length L62. In some embodiments, the length L61 is twice the length L62. In some embodiments, the length L61 is three times the length L62. In some embodiments, the length L61 is 4.2 times the length L62.

[0117] Figures 32A to 3 Another embodiment of the plate body 7110 is illustrated in 3D. Many features of the plate body 7110 are similar to those discussed above with respect to the sixth embodiment of the plate body 5110. Therefore, these features will not be repeated below. Features similar to those described above will be labeled with reference numerals two thousand higher than the corresponding feature numbers described above.

[0118] The plate body 7110 has a rectangular shape. The plate body 7110 is defined by a first side 7222, a second side 7226 opposite to the first side 7222, a first end 7230, and a second end 7234 opposite to the first end 7230. The plate body 7110 further includes: a first corner portion 7238 connecting the first side 7222 and the first end 7230; a second corner portion 7242 connecting the first side 7222 and the second end 7234; a third corner portion 7246 connecting the first end 7230 and the second side 7226; and a fourth corner portion 7250 connecting the second side 7226 and the second end 7234.

[0119] The plate body 7110 includes a first low-pressure opening 7128 (e.g., a low-pressure plate inlet), a second low-pressure opening 7134 (e.g., a low-pressure plate outlet), a first high-pressure opening 7138 (e.g., a high-pressure plate inlet), and a second high-pressure opening 7142 (e.g., a high-pressure plate outlet). The first low-pressure opening 7128 is arranged adjacent to a first corner 7238, and the second low-pressure opening 7134 is arranged adjacent to a second corner 7242. The first high-pressure opening 7138 is arranged adjacent to a third corner 7246, and the second high-pressure opening 7142 is arranged adjacent to a fourth corner 7250.

[0120] On the plate body 7110, a low-pressure fluid path FP71 crosses the plate body 7110 in a first direction, extending from a first low-pressure opening 7128 to a second low-pressure opening 7134. A high-pressure fluid path FP72 crosses the plate body 7110 in a second direction, extending from a first high-pressure opening 7138 to a second high-pressure opening 7142. The high-pressure fluid path FP72 is parallel to the low-pressure fluid path FP71. In the illustrated embodiment, the first direction and the second direction are the same. In some embodiments, the first high-pressure opening 7138 and the second high-pressure opening 7142 can be switched such that the second direction is parallel to but opposite to the first direction, thereby arranging the low-pressure fluid path FP71 and the high-pressure fluid path FP72 in a counter-current arrangement.

[0121] exist Figure 32C In this embodiment, a turbulence promoter 7170 is disposed on a plate body 7110. The turbulence promoter 7170 includes a channel 7174 that extends partially across the plate body 7110. The channel 7174 extends in a third direction between a first end 7230 and a second end 7234. This third direction is the same as the first direction, such that a low-pressure fluid path FP71 extends in the same direction as the channel 7174.

[0122] exist Figure 32D In this embodiment, a turbulence promoter 7170 is disposed on a plate body 7110. The turbulence promoter 7170 includes a channel 7174 that extends partially across the plate body 7110. The channel 7174 extends partially across the plate body 7110 in a third direction between a first side 7222 and a second side 7226. This third direction is transverse to the first direction, such that the channel 7174 extends in a direction transverse to the low-pressure fluid path FP71. More specifically, the third direction is perpendicular to the low-pressure fluid path FP71, such that the channel 7174 extends in a direction perpendicular to the low-pressure fluid path FP71.

[0123] Figure 33A and Figure 33BAnother embodiment of the plate body 8110 is illustrated. Many features of the plate body 8110 are similar to those discussed above with respect to the sixth embodiment of the plate body 3110. Therefore, these features will not be repeated below. Features similar to those described above will be labeled with reference numerals three thousand higher than the corresponding feature numbers described above.

[0124] The plate body 8110 has a rectangular shape. The plate body 8110 is defined by a first side 8222, a second side 8226 opposite to the first side 8222, a first end 8230, and a second end 8234 opposite to the first end 8230. The plate body 8110 further includes: a first corner portion 8238 connecting the first side 8222 and the first end 8230; a second corner portion 8242 connecting the first side 8222 and the second end 8234; a third corner portion 8246 connecting the first end 8230 and the second side 8226; and a fourth corner portion 8250 connecting the second side 8226 and the second end 8234.

[0125] The plate body 8110 includes a first low-pressure opening 8128 (e.g., a low-pressure plate inlet), a second low-pressure opening 8134 (e.g., a low-pressure plate outlet), a first high-pressure opening 8138 (e.g., a high-pressure plate inlet), and a second high-pressure opening 8142 (e.g., a high-pressure plate outlet). The first low-pressure opening 8128 is arranged adjacent to a first corner 8238, and the second low-pressure opening 8134 is arranged adjacent to a fourth corner 8250. The first high-pressure opening 8138 is arranged adjacent to a second corner 8242, and the second high-pressure opening 8142 is arranged adjacent to a third corner 8246.

[0126] On the plate body 8110, a low-pressure fluid path FP81 crosses the plate body 8110 in a first direction, extending from a first low-pressure opening 8128 to a second low-pressure opening 8134. A high-pressure fluid path FP82 crosses the plate body 8110 in a second direction, extending from the first high-pressure opening 8138 to a second high-pressure opening 8142. The second direction is transverse to the first direction, such that the low-pressure fluid path FP81 is transverse to the second high-pressure opening 8142. More specifically, the second direction can be perpendicular to the first direction, such that the low-pressure fluid path FP81 can be perpendicular to the second high-pressure opening 8142. The low-pressure fluid path FP81 and the high-pressure fluid path FP82 are arranged in a cross-flow configuration.

[0127] refer to Figure 33BA turbulence promoter 8170 may be provided on the plate body 8110. The turbulence promoter 8170 may include a channel 8174. The channel 8174 extends partially along the plate body 8110 between a first end 8230 and a second end 8234. The channel 8174 extends upward in a third direction. The third direction is transverse to the first direction, such that a low-pressure fluid path FP81 is transverse to the channel 8174.

[0128] Figures 34A to 34B Another embodiment of the plate body 9110 is illustrated. Many features of the plate body 9110 are similar to those discussed above with respect to the sixth embodiment of the plate body 5110. Therefore, these features will not be repeated below. Features similar to those described above will be labeled with reference numerals four thousand higher than the corresponding feature numbers described above.

[0129] The plate body 9110 has a rectangular shape. The plate body 9110 is defined by a first side 9222, a second side 9226 opposite to the first side 9222, a first end 9230, and a second end 9234 opposite to the first end 9230. The plate body 9110 further includes a first corner 9238, a second corner 9242, a third corner 9246, and a fourth corner 9250.

[0130] The plate body 9110 includes a first low-pressure opening 9128 (e.g., a low-pressure plate inlet), a second low-pressure opening 9134 (e.g., a low-pressure plate outlet), a first high-pressure opening 9138 (e.g., a high-pressure plate inlet), and a second high-pressure opening 9142 (e.g., a high-pressure plate outlet).

[0131] exist Figure 34A In the first low-pressure opening 9128, a first low-pressure opening 9128 is arranged along the first side 9222, and a second low-pressure opening 9134 is arranged along the second side 9226. A first high-pressure opening 9138 is arranged along the first end 9230, and a second high-pressure opening 9142 is arranged along the second end 9234.

[0132] exist Figure 34B In the first low-pressure opening 9128, a first low-pressure opening 9128 is arranged along the first end 9230, and a second low-pressure opening 9134 is arranged along the second end 9234. A first high-pressure opening 9138 is arranged along the second side 9226, and a second high-pressure opening 9142 is arranged along the first side 9222.

[0133] On the plate body 9110, a low-pressure fluid path FP91 crosses the plate body 9110 in a first direction, extending from a first low-pressure opening 9128 to a second low-pressure opening 9134. A high-pressure fluid path FP92 crosses the plate body 9110 in a second direction, extending from a first high-pressure opening 9138 to a second high-pressure opening 9142. The second direction is transverse to the first direction, such that the high-pressure fluid path FP92 is transverse to the low-pressure fluid path FP91. More specifically, the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction, such that the high-pressure fluid path FP92 is perpendicular to the low-pressure fluid path FP91. The low-pressure fluid path FP91 and the high-pressure fluid path FP92 are arranged in a cross-flow configuration.

[0134] Various additional features and advantages of the present invention are set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A heat exchanger comprising: a first low pressure inlet configured to be connected to a first low pressure line to supply a low pressure fluid to the first low pressure inlet; a second low pressure inlet configured to be connected to a second low pressure line to supply the low pressure fluid to the second low pressure inlet; a low pressure outlet configured to be connected to a third low pressure line to supply the low pressure fluid to the third low pressure line; a high pressure inlet configured to be connected to a first high pressure line to supply a high pressure fluid to the high pressure inlet; a high pressure outlet configured to be connected to a second high pressure line to supply the high pressure fluid to the second high pressure line; and a plurality of plates, each plate having: a first low pressure opening fluidly connected to the first low pressure inlet, a second low pressure opening fluidly connected to the second low pressure inlet, a third low pressure opening fluidly connected to the low pressure outlet, a first high pressure opening fluidly connected to the high pressure inlet, and a second high pressure opening fluidly connected to the high pressure outlet, wherein the plurality of plates includes a first set of plates and a second set of plates, the first set of plates and the second set of plates are alternately stacked, the first set of plates and the second set of plates are configured to transfer heat from the high pressure fluid to the low pressure fluid, wherein when one of the first set of plates is positioned below one of the second set of plates, a first space is formed between the one of the first set of plates and the one of the second set of plates, wherein when one of the second set of plates is positioned below one of the first set of plates, a second space is formed between the one of the second set of plates and the one of the first set of plates, wherein the first space provides fluid communication between the first low pressure opening and the third low pressure opening, provides fluid communication between the second low pressure opening and the third low pressure opening, and prevents fluid communication between the first high pressure opening and the second high pressure opening, wherein the second space provides fluid communication between the first high pressure opening and the second high pressure opening, and prevents fluid communication between the first low pressure opening and the third low pressure opening, and prevents fluid communication between the second low pressure opening and the third low pressure opening.

2. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein each plate of the first set of plates includes a wall between the first low pressure opening and the second low pressure opening, the wall at least partially preventing fluid communication between the first low pressure opening and the second low pressure opening.

3. The heat exchanger of claim 2, wherein: one of the first set of plates and one of the second set of plates are adjacent plates, ​ the two adjacent plates are spaced apart by a first height, the wall has a second height, and the first height is the same as the second height.

4. The heat exchanger of claim 2, wherein: one of the plates of the first set is adjacent to one of the plates of the second set, the two adjacent plates are spaced apart by a first height, the wall has a second height, and the first height is greater than the second height.

5. The heat exchanger of claim 2, wherein: the first low pressure opening is a first distance from the third low pressure opening, the second low pressure opening is a second distance from the third low pressure opening, the wall extends a third distance along each of the plates of the first set, and the third distance is less than the first distance and the second distance.

6. The heat exchanger of claim 5, wherein the third distance is less than half of the first distance and / or less than half of the second distance.

7. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein: the first low pressure opening is a first distance from the third low pressure opening, the second low pressure opening is a second distance from the third low pressure opening, and the first distance is the same as the second distance.

8. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein: the first low pressure opening is a first distance from the third low pressure opening, the second low pressure opening is a second distance from the third low pressure opening, and the first distance is less than the second distance.

9. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein the plate body of each of the plates defines a rectangular shape and includes a first side, a second side opposite the first side, a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first corner between the first side and the first end, a second corner between the first side and the second end, a third corner between the second side and the first end, and a fourth corner between the second side and the second end.

10. The heat exchanger of claim 9, wherein: the first low pressure opening is positioned proximate the first corner, the second low pressure opening is positioned proximate the third corner, the third low pressure opening is positioned along the second end, the first high pressure opening is positioned along the first side, and the second high pressure opening is positioned along the second side.

11. The heat exchanger of claim 9, wherein: the first low pressure opening is positioned proximate the first corner, the second low pressure opening is positioned proximate the third corner, the third low pressure opening is positioned proximate the fourth corner, the first high pressure opening is positioned along the first side, and the second high pressure opening is positioned along the second side.

12. The heat exchanger of claim 9, wherein: the first low pressure opening is positioned proximate the first corner, the second low pressure opening is positioned proximate the third corner, the third low pressure opening is positioned proximate the second corner, the first high pressure opening is positioned along the first side, and the second high pressure opening is positioned along the second side. the first high pressure opening is positioned adjacent to the fourth corner, and the second high pressure opening is positioned along the first side.

13. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein the panel body of each of the plurality of panels defines a pentagon, and includes five corners.

14. The heat exchanger of claim 13, wherein the first low pressure opening, the second low pressure opening, the third low pressure opening, the first high pressure opening, and the second high pressure opening are each located in one of the five corners.

15. The heat exchanger of claim 14, wherein: at least some of the plurality of panels include a turbulence promoter that extends at least partially along a surface of the panel, and the turbulence promoter includes a plurality of fins, each of the plurality of fins having a fin width.

16. The heat exchanger of claim 15, wherein: the first low pressure opening is spaced a distance from a perimeter of the panel, and the distance is at least twice the fin width.

17. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein: the first low pressure opening, the second low pressure opening, and the third low pressure opening have a first shape, the first high pressure opening and the second high pressure opening have a second shape, and the first shape is different than the second shape.

18. A heat exchanger, comprising: a low pressure inlet configured to be connected to a low pressure inlet line to supply a low pressure fluid to the low pressure inlet; a low pressure outlet configured to be connected to a low pressure outlet line to supply the low pressure fluid to the low pressure outlet line; a high pressure inlet configured to be connected to a high pressure inlet line to supply a high pressure fluid to the high pressure inlet; a high pressure outlet configured to be connected to a high pressure outlet line to supply the high pressure fluid to the high pressure outlet line; and a plurality of panels, each panel having: a low pressure panel inlet fluidically connected to the low pressure inlet, a low pressure panel outlet fluidically connected to the low pressure outlet, a high pressure panel inlet fluidically connected to the high pressure inlet, and a high pressure panel outlet fluidically connected to the high pressure outlet, wherein the plurality of panels includes a first set of panels and a second set of panels, the first set of panels and the second set of panels being alternately stacked, the first set of panels and the second set of panels being configured to transfer heat from the high pressure fluid to the low pressure fluid, wherein when one of the first set of panels is positioned below one of the second set of panels, a first space is formed between the one of the first set of panels and the one of the second set of panels, wherein the first space is configured to be filled with the low pressure fluid, and wherein the one of the first set of panels and the one of the second set of panels each include a first low pressure opening, a second low pressure opening, a third low pressure opening, a first high pressure opening, and a second high pressure opening. wherein a second space is formed between one of the second set of plates and one of the first set of plates when the one of the second set of plates is positioned below the one of the first set of plates, wherein the first space provides fluid communication between the low-pressure plate inlet and the low-pressure plate outlet and prevents fluid communication between the high-pressure plate inlet and the high-pressure plate outlet, wherein the second space provides fluid communication between the high-pressure plate inlet and the high-pressure plate outlet and prevents fluid communication between the low-pressure plate inlet and the low-pressure plate outlet, wherein the low-pressure plate inlet and the low-pressure plate outlet have a first cross-sectional shape and the high-pressure plate inlet and the high-pressure plate outlet have a second cross-sectional shape, the first cross-sectional shape being different than the second cross-sectional shape.

19. The heat exchanger of claim 18, wherein an area of the first cross-sectional shape is greater than an area of the second cross-sectional shape.

20. The heat exchanger of claim 18, wherein: the first cross-sectional shape is non-circular, and the second cross-sectional shape is circular.

21. The heat exchanger of claim 19, wherein the first cross-sectional shape is oblong.

22. The heat exchanger of claim 18, wherein a perimeter of each of the plates defines a rectangular shape and includes a first side, a second side opposite the first side, a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first corner between the first side and the first end, a second corner between the first side and the second end, a third corner between the second side and the first end, and a fourth corner between the second side and the second end.

23. The heat exchanger of claim 22, wherein: the low-pressure plate inlet is positioned adjacent the first corner, the low-pressure plate outlet is positioned adjacent the third corner, the high-pressure plate inlet is positioned adjacent the second corner, and the high-pressure plate outlet is positioned adjacent the fourth corner.

24. The heat exchanger of claim 22, wherein: the low-pressure plate inlet is positioned adjacent the first corner, the low-pressure plate outlet is positioned adjacent the second corner, the high-pressure plate inlet is positioned adjacent the fourth corner, and the high-pressure plate outlet is positioned adjacent the third corner.

25. The heat exchanger of claim 22, wherein: the low-pressure plate inlet is positioned along the first side, the low-pressure plate outlet is positioned along the second side, the high-pressure plate inlet is positioned adjacent the first end, and the high-pressure plate outlet is positioned adjacent the second end.

26. The heat exchanger of claim 18, wherein at least some of the plurality of plates include a turbulence promoter extending at least partially across the plate.

27. The heat exchanger of claim 26, wherein: the turbulence promoter comprises a plurality of fins, each fin of the plurality of fins has a fin width, the low pressure sheet inlets are each spaced a distance from a periphery of the sheets, and the distance is at least twice the fin width.

28. The heat exchanger of claim 26, wherein: the turbulence promoter comprises a channel, the channel extends at least partially between the low pressure sheet inlets and the low pressure sheet outlets, each sheet of the first set of sheets is configured to flow the low pressure fluid from the low pressure sheet inlets to the low pressure sheet outlets in a first direction, the channel extends in a second direction, and the second direction is the same as the first direction.

29. The heat exchanger of claim 26, wherein: the turbulence promoter comprises a channel, the channel extends at least partially between the low pressure sheet inlets and the low pressure sheet outlets, each sheet of the first set of sheets is configured to flow the low pressure fluid from the low pressure sheet inlets to the low pressure sheet outlets in a first direction, the channel extends in a second direction, and the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

30. The heat exchanger of claim 26, wherein: the turbulence promoter comprises a channel, the channel extends at least partially between the low pressure sheet inlets and the low pressure sheet outlets, each sheet of the first set of sheets is configured to flow the low pressure fluid from the low pressure sheet inlets to the low pressure sheet outlets in a first direction, the channel extends in a second direction, and the second direction is transverse to the first direction.

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