Three-way heat exchange module with uniform fluid distribution

Abstract

An HVAC system includes a refrigerant subsystem and an air treatment subsystem. The air treatment subsystem comprises a three-way heat exchanger. The HVAC system is operable to circulate a heat transfer fluid between the heat exchanger and the refrigerant subsystem. The heat exchanger includes a panel assembly, a heat transfer fluid inlet manifold and a heat transfer fluid inlet manifold outlet manifold, and a heat transfer fluid inlet and a heat transfer fluid outlet. Each panel assembly includes a heat transfer fluid channel and a desiccant channel separate from the heat transfer fluid channel. An inlet manifold and an outlet manifold are connected to the heat transfer fluid passage of each panel assembly and each extend between lateral sides of the heat exchanger. The inlet manifold is closed at a first lateral side and connected to the inlet at a second lateral side, and the outlet manifold is closed at the second lateral side and connected to the outlet at the first lateral side.

Description

Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority to Indian Patent Application No. 202311055849, filed August 21, 2023, and U.S. Nonprovisional Patent Application No. 18 / 482,454, filed October 6, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The art generally relates to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and more specifically to HVAC systems and methods including a three-way heat exchange module for transferring heat between a heat transfer fluid, a liquid desiccant, and air. Background Technology

[0003] Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are known for their ability to heat, cool, and remove moisture from outside air circulating through indoor spaces. Vapor compression cycles are widely used in HVAC systems to regulate the temperature and humidity of outside air. Typically, outside air is cooled below its dew point temperature to allow moisture in the air to condense on evaporator coils, thus dehumidifying the air. Because this process often leaves the dehumidified air at uncomfortable low temperatures, it is then reheated to a more comfortable temperature for the user. The process of overcooling and reheating air can become very energy-intensive and expensive.

[0004] In some applications, HVAC systems include vapor compression systems used in conjunction with liquid desiccant dehumidification systems to remove moisture from outside air without cooling it below its dew point temperature. For example, an HVAC system may include a refrigerant subsystem operating in a vapor compression cycle and an air handling subsystem that uses a heat transfer fluid and a liquid desiccant to simultaneously absorb heat (sensible heat cooling) and moisture (latent heat cooling) from warm outside air to produce cooled and dehumidified indoor air. The air handling subsystem may include a three-way heat transfer device that facilitates both sensible and latent heat cooling of warm outside air using a heat transfer fluid and a liquid desiccant.

[0005] In the operation of a three-way heat exchanger, a liquid desiccant and a heat transfer fluid are guided through the heat exchanger, and heat is transferred between the liquid desiccant and the heat transfer fluid. Outdoor airflow is guided through the heat exchanger, and the heat transfer fluid absorbs heat from the airflow while the liquid desiccant absorbs moisture from the airflow. The liquid desiccant can circulate between the three-way heat exchanger and the regeneration system, where diluted liquid desiccant discharges absorbed moisture into the sacrificial fluid. The refrigerant subsystem engages with the air handling subsystem, whereby the refrigerant absorbs heat from the heat transfer fluid that has left the three-way heat exchanger during the evaporation phase of the vapor compression cycle. The refrigerant is then guided to the condensation phase, where it discharges the absorbed heat into another fluid. The liquid desiccant processed by the regeneration system and the heat transfer fluid processed by the refrigerant subsystem are then guided back to the three-way heat exchanger to again provide sensible and latent heat cooling of the outside air.

[0006] This background section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of the art that may be related to the various aspects of this disclosure, which are described and / or claimed below. This discussion is intended to help provide the reader with background information in order to better understand the various aspects of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this context and not as an admission of prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In one aspect, a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system includes a refrigerant subsystem and at least one air handling subsystem. The at least one air handling subsystem includes a three-way heat exchanger for transferring heat between a heat transfer fluid, a liquid desiccant, and air. The HVAC system is operable to circulate the heat transfer fluid between the three-way heat exchanger and the refrigerant subsystem. The three-way heat exchanger defines mutually perpendicular lateral, longitudinal, and vertical directions, and includes panel assemblies, a heat transfer fluid inlet manifold, a heat transfer fluid outlet manifold, and a heat transfer fluid inlet and outlet. The panel assemblies are arranged continuously in the lateral direction, and airflow gaps are defined between adjacent panel assemblies to allow airflow through the three-way heat exchanger. Each panel assembly includes: a frame defining a heat transfer fluid passage; and at least one vapor-permeable membrane disposed on a lateral surface of the frame. At least one desiccant passage is defined between the at least one membrane and the frame, and the at least one desiccant passage is separated from the heat transfer fluid passage. A heat transfer fluid inlet manifold and a heat transfer fluid outlet manifold are connected to the heat transfer fluid passage of each panel assembly, and each heat transfer fluid inlet manifold and heat transfer fluid outlet manifold extend between a first lateral side and a second lateral side of the three-way heat exchanger. The heat transfer fluid inlet manifold is closed at the first lateral side, and the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold is closed at the second lateral side. The heat transfer fluid inlet is connected to the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold at the second lateral side, and the heat transfer fluid outlet is connected to the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold at the first lateral side.

[0008] On the other hand, a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system includes a refrigerant subsystem, a regulator subsystem, and a regenerator subsystem. The regulator subsystem includes a first three-way heat exchanger for transferring heat between a regulator heat transfer fluid, a liquid desiccant, and a first airflow. The HVAC system is operable to circulate the regulator heat transfer fluid between the first three-way heat exchanger and the refrigerant subsystem. The regenerator subsystem includes a second three-way heat exchanger for transferring heat between a regenerator heat transfer fluid, a liquid desiccant, and a second airflow. The HVAC system is operable to circulate the regenerator heat transfer fluid between the second three-way heat exchanger and the refrigerant subsystem. The first and second three-way heat exchangers each define mutually perpendicular lateral, longitudinal, and vertical directions, and each three-way heat exchanger includes a panel assembly, a heat transfer fluid inlet manifold, a heat transfer fluid outlet manifold, a heat transfer fluid inlet, and a heat transfer fluid outlet. The panel assemblies are arranged continuously in the lateral direction, and airflow gaps are defined between adjacent panel assemblies to allow corresponding airflows through the three-way heat exchangers. Each panel assembly includes a frame defining a heat transfer fluid passage and at least one vapor-permeable membrane disposed on a lateral surface of the frame. At least one desiccant passage is defined between the at least one membrane and the frame, and the at least one desiccant passage is separate from the heat transfer fluid passage. A heat transfer fluid inlet manifold and a heat transfer fluid outlet manifold are connected to the heat transfer fluid passage of each panel assembly, and each heat transfer fluid inlet manifold extends between a first lateral side and a second lateral side of a three-way heat exchanger. The heat transfer fluid inlet manifold is closed at the first lateral side, and the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold is closed at the second lateral side. A heat transfer fluid inlet is connected to the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold at the second lateral side, and a heat transfer fluid outlet is connected to the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold at the first lateral side.

[0009] On the other hand, a three-way heat exchanger for use in an air handling subsystem of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system is operable to transfer heat between a heat transfer fluid, a liquid desiccant, and air. The three-way heat exchanger defines mutually perpendicular lateral, longitudinal, and vertical directions, and includes panel assemblies, a heat transfer fluid inlet manifold, a heat transfer fluid outlet manifold, a heat transfer fluid inlet, and a heat transfer fluid outlet. The panel assemblies are arranged continuously in the lateral direction, and airflow gaps are defined between adjacent panel assemblies to allow airflow through the three-way heat exchanger. Each panel assembly includes: a frame defining a heat transfer fluid passage; and at least one vapor-permeable membrane disposed on a lateral surface of the frame. At least one desiccant passage is defined between the at least one membrane and the frame, and the at least one desiccant passage is separated from the heat transfer fluid passage. The heat transfer fluid inlet manifold and the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold are connected to the heat transfer fluid passage of each panel assembly, and each heat transfer fluid inlet manifold and heat transfer fluid outlet manifold extends between a first lateral side and a second lateral side of the three-way heat exchanger. The heat transfer fluid inlet manifold is closed at a first lateral side, and the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold is closed at a second lateral side. The heat transfer fluid inlet is connected to the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold at the second lateral side, and the heat transfer fluid outlet is connected to the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold at the first lateral side.

[0010] Various improvements exist regarding the features indicated in the foregoing aspects. Other features may also be incorporated into the foregoing aspects. These improvements and additional features may exist individually or in any combination. For example, the various features discussed below with respect to any embodiment of the illustrated embodiments may be incorporated individually or in any combination into any of the foregoing aspects. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 It is a schematic flowchart of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.

[0012] Figure 2 Is included Figure 1 A front perspective view of a three-way heat exchanger in an HVAC system.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a front perspective view of a three-way heat exchanger, in which various components are omitted to show the internal parts.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a rear 3D view of a three-way heat exchanger.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a rear 3D view of a three-way heat exchanger, in which, similar to Figure 3 Various components have been omitted.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a left-side front view of a three-way heat exchanger, where, similar to Figure 3 and Figure 5 Various components have been omitted.

[0017] Figure 7 Is included Figures 2 to 6 The right-side front view of an example panel assembly in a three-way heat exchanger.

[0018] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 An exploded view of the panel components.

[0019] Figure 9 It is along Figure 7 The schematic cross-section of the panel assembly is taken by section line 9-9 in the figure.

[0020] Figures 10A to 10D They are Figure 8 Enlarged views of parts A, B, C, and D are shown.

[0021] Figure 11 This illustrates the flow of liquid desiccant and heat transfer fluid. Figures 2 to 6 A schematic diagram of a three-way heat exchanger.

[0022] Figures 12 to 14 It shows the flow through and Figure 11 A schematic diagram of a similar three-way heat exchanger, in which various features and components facilitate the uniform flow distribution of the heat transfer fluid and / or liquid desiccant.

[0023] Throughout the accompanying drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate the corresponding parts. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system 100. The HVAC system 100 includes subsystems 102 to 106 that facilitate the heating, cooling, and moisture removal capabilities of the system 100, and a liquid desiccant circuit 108. The subsystems of the HVAC system 100 include a refrigerant subsystem 102, a regulator subsystem 104, and a regenerator subsystem 106. The regulator subsystem 104 and the regenerator subsystem 106 are capable of handling a first inlet airflow 110 and a second inlet airflow 114, respectively, and may be referred to herein as air handling subsystems 104 and 106. The HVAC system 100 may include, in addition to those referenced, [other components]. Figure 1 Additional or other components in addition to those shown and described.

[0025] In an example operating mode of the HVAC system 100, the regulator subsystem 104 removes heat from the first inlet airflow 110 and directs the regulated outlet airflow 112 to a regulated space (not shown), such as the interior of a building structure or vehicle. The regulated outlet airflow 112 leaving the regulator subsystem 104 may have a lower temperature than the first inlet airflow 110. The heat removed from the first inlet airflow 110 is transferred from the regulator subsystem 104 to the refrigerant subsystem 102 and ultimately to the regenerator subsystem 106. The regenerator subsystem 106 transfers heat to the second inlet airflow 114 and directs the heated outlet airflow 116 to the atmosphere.

[0026] The refrigerant subsystem 102 includes an evaporator 118, a condenser 120, a compressor 122, and an expansion valve 124. The compressor 122 can be any suitable compressor, including but not limited to scroll compressors, reciprocating compressors, rotary compressors, screw compressors, and centrifugal compressors. The expansion valve 124 can be any suitable expansion valve, such as a thermal expansion valve. The expansion valve 124 can alternatively be any suitable expansion device, such as an orifice or capillary tube. The refrigerant subsystem 102 also includes a refrigerant loop 126 that circulates a working fluid, such as refrigerant, between the evaporator 118, compressor 122, condenser 120, and expansion valve 124. The refrigerant subsystem 102 may include, in addition to those mentioned above... Figure 1 Additional or other components in addition to those shown and described.

[0027] In the operation of the refrigerant subsystem 102, the refrigerant in loop 126 is directed toward compressor 122 as a low-pressure gaseous refrigerant 128. Compressor 122 compresses the gaseous refrigerant 128, which increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. The pressurized, high-temperature gaseous refrigerant 130 leaves compressor 122 and is directed toward condenser 120, where the high-pressure gaseous refrigerant 130 is condensed into high-pressure liquid refrigerant 132. The liquid refrigerant 132 leaving condenser 120 is directed toward expansion valve 124, which reduces the pressure of the liquid. After passing through expansion valve 124, the depressurized fluid refrigerant 134, which may be a gas or a mixture of gas and liquid, is then directed toward evaporator 118. The fluid refrigerant 134 evaporates into a gas in evaporator 118, thus leaving the evaporator as low-pressure gaseous refrigerant 128. The gaseous refrigerant 128 is then guided back to the compressor 122, where it is compressed again and the process is repeated. The circulation of refrigerant in loop 126 can be driven by the compressor 122, and more specifically, by the pressure difference existing between the pressurized, high-temperature gaseous refrigerant 130 leaving the compressor 122 and the low-pressure gaseous refrigerant 128 entering the compressor 122. Figure 1 As shown, the flow direction of the refrigerant through loop 126 can be reversed to switch the heat transfer function of evaporator 118 and condenser 120, and enable HVAC system 100 to operate in various operating modes.

[0028] The regulator subsystem 104 includes a first three-way heat exchanger 136 and a regulator heat transfer fluid loop 138, which circulates a regulator heat transfer fluid (e.g., water, an ethylene glycol-based fluid, or any combination of water and an ethylene glycol-based fluid) to and from the first three-way heat exchanger 136. The regulator subsystem 104 is connected to the refrigerant subsystem 102 via an evaporator 118. Specifically, the evaporator 118 is included in both the refrigerant loop 126 and the regulator heat transfer loop 138, and facilitates heat transfer from the regulator heat transfer fluid in loop 138 to the fluid refrigerant 134 in loop 126. The regulator subsystem 104 may include, in addition to those mentioned above... Figure 1 Additional components or other components beyond those shown and described. For example, regulator subsystem 104 may include one or more pumps (not shown) for circulating the regulator heat transfer fluid in loop 138 between the first three-way heat exchanger 136 and the evaporator 118. Suitable pumps that may be included in regulator subsystem 104 include, for example, centrifugal pumps, diaphragm pumps, positive displacement pumps, or any type of pump suitable for transferring liquids. Depending on the operating requirements of HVAC system 100 and other factors (e.g., the temperature and / or humidity of the first air inlet flow 110), regulator subsystem 104 may include additional heat transfer devices for transferring heat from the regulator heat transfer fluid to the atmosphere or from the atmosphere to the regulator heat transfer fluid.

[0029] In the operation of the regulator subsystem 104, the regulator heat transfer fluid in loop 138 is directed toward the evaporator 118. The regulator heat transfer fluid is cooled in the evaporator 118 as heat is transferred from the regulator heat transfer fluid to the fluid refrigerant 134 in loop 126 to produce gaseous refrigerant 128. The cooled regulator heat transfer fluid 140 leaving the evaporator 118 is directed toward and enters the first three-way heat exchanger 136. The first inlet airflow 110 is also directed through the first three-way heat exchanger 136. The first three-way heat exchanger 136 transfers heat from the first inlet airflow 110 to the regulator heat transfer fluid 140, thereby heating the regulator heat transfer fluid. The heated regulator heat transfer fluid 142 leaving the first three-way heat exchanger 136 is directed back to the evaporator 118, and the process is repeated.

[0030] The regenerator subsystem 106 includes a second three-way heat exchanger 144 and a regenerator heat transfer fluid loop 146, which circulates a regenerator heat transfer fluid (e.g., water, an ethylene glycol-based fluid, or any combination of water and an ethylene glycol-based fluid) to and from the second three-way heat exchanger 144. The regenerator subsystem 106 is connected to the refrigerant subsystem 102 via a condenser 120. Specifically, the condenser 120 is included in both the refrigerant loop 126 and the regenerator heat transfer loop 146, and facilitates the transfer of heat from the pressurized gaseous refrigerant 130 in the refrigerant loop 126 to the regenerator heat transfer fluid. The regenerator subsystem 106 may include, in addition to those referenced, Figure 1 Additional components or other components beyond those shown and described. For example, regenerator subsystem 106 may include one or more pumps (not shown) for circulating the regenerator heat transfer fluid in loop 146 between the three-way heat exchanger 144 and the condenser 120. Suitable pumps that may be included in regenerator subsystem 106 include, for example, centrifugal pumps, diaphragm pumps, positive displacement pumps, or any type of pump suitable for transferring liquids. Depending on the operating requirements of HVAC system 100 and other factors (e.g., the temperature and / or humidity of the first air inlet flow 110), regenerator subsystem 106 may include additional heat transfer devices for transferring heat from the atmosphere to the regenerator heat transfer fluid or from the regenerator heat transfer fluid to the atmosphere.

[0031] In the operation of the regenerator subsystem 106, the regenerator heat transfer fluid in loop 146 is directed toward the condenser 120. The regenerator heat transfer fluid is heated in the condenser as heat is transferred from the pressurized gaseous refrigerant 130 in loop 126 to the regenerator heat transfer fluid to produce liquid refrigerant 132. The heated regenerator heat transfer fluid 148 leaving the condenser is directed toward and enters the second three-way heat exchanger 144. The second inlet airflow 114 is also directed through the second three-way heat exchanger 144. The second three-way heat exchanger 144 transfers heat from the regenerator heat transfer fluid to the second inlet airflow 114, thereby cooling the regenerator heat transfer fluid. The heated outlet airflow 116 leaving the second three-way heat exchanger 144 has a higher temperature than the second inlet airflow 114. The cooled regenerator heat transfer fluid 150 leaving the three-way heat exchanger 144 is directed back to the condenser 120, and the process is repeated.

[0032] HVAC system 100 also includes a liquid desiccant circuit 108, which operates in conjunction with subsystems 102 to 106 to cool the first inlet airflow 110 by means of latent heat cooling and sensible heat cooling. Sensible heat cooling reduces the temperature of the regulated outlet airflow 112 by removing heat from the first inlet airflow 110. Latent heat cooling reduces the temperature of the regulated outlet airflow 112 by removing moisture from the first inlet airflow 110. The liquid desiccant circuit 108 includes a liquid desiccant guided between the first three-way heat exchanger 136 and the second three-way heat exchanger 144. Suitable liquid desiccants that can be used in the liquid desiccant circuit 108 include, for example, desiccant salt solutions such as water and solutions of lithium chloride (LiCl), lithium bromide (LiBr), calcium chloride (CaCl2) or any combination thereof, triethylene glycol, sodium hydroxide, sulfuric acid, and so-called ionic liquid desiccants, or organic salts that are liquid at room temperature and have organic cations and organic or inorganic anions.

[0033] The liquid desiccant circuit 108 may include one or more pumps (not shown) for guiding liquid desiccant between the first three-way heat exchanger 136 and the second three-way heat exchanger 144. Suitable pumps that may be included in the liquid desiccant circuit 108 include, for example, centrifugal pumps, diaphragm pumps, positive displacement pumps, or any type of pump suitable for transferring liquids. The liquid desiccant circuit 108 may include one or more pumps for transferring liquid desiccant from the second heat exchanger 144 to the first heat exchanger 136, and one or more pumps for transferring diluted liquid desiccant 154 from the first heat exchanger 136 to the second heat exchanger 144.

[0034] Concentrated liquid desiccant 152 in liquid desiccant circuit 108 is directed toward the first three-way heat exchanger 136 of regulator subsystem 104, whereby the concentrated liquid desiccant 152 removes moisture from the first inlet airflow 110. The concentrated liquid desiccant 152 cooperates with the cooled regulator heat transfer fluid 140 in the first three-way heat exchanger 136 to absorb heat and moisture from the first inlet airflow 110. The regulated outlet airflow 112 exiting the first three-way heat exchanger 136 may have lower humidity and / or lower temperature compared to the first inlet airflow 110. The liquid desiccant that has absorbed moisture from the first inlet airflow 110 exits the first three-way heat exchanger 136 as diluted liquid desiccant 154.

[0035] The diluted liquid desiccant 154 is directed toward the second three-way heat exchanger 144 of the regenerator subsystem 106, whereby the diluted liquid desiccant 154 discharges moisture into the second inlet airflow 114. The diluted liquid desiccant 154 cooperates with the heated regenerator heat transfer fluid 148 in the second three-way heat exchanger 144 to discharge heat and moisture into the second inlet airflow 114. Therefore, the heated outlet airflow 116 leaving the second three-way heat exchanger 144 has greater humidity and a higher temperature than the second inlet airflow 114. The liquid desiccant that has discharged moisture into the second inlet airflow 114 leaves the regenerator subsystem 106 as concentrated liquid desiccant 152. The concentrated liquid desiccant 152 leaving the second three-way heat exchanger 144 is directed back to the first three-way heat exchanger 136, and the process is repeated.

[0036] The liquid desiccant circuit 108 may further include a desiccant-to-desiccant heat exchanger 156 for transferring heat from the concentrated liquid desiccant 152, which has exited the second three-way heat exchanger 144, to the diluted liquid desiccant 154, which has exited the first three-way heat exchanger 136. The desiccant-to-desiccant heat exchanger 156 can facilitate improvements in the function of the liquid desiccant in the three-way heat exchangers 136 and 144. For example, the desiccant-to-desiccant heat exchanger 156 can lower the temperature of the concentrated liquid desiccant 152 to provide greater cooling and dehumidification capacity to the first three-way heat exchanger 136. Additionally and / or alternatively, the desiccant-to-desiccant heat exchanger 156 can increase the temperature of the diluted liquid desiccant 154 so that the diluted liquid desiccant 154 can desorb a larger amount of moisture in the second three-way heat exchanger 144. The desiccant-desiccant heat exchanger 156 can be an inline heat exchanger or any suitable heat exchanger that facilitates direct heat transfer between concentrated liquid desiccant 152 and diluted liquid desiccant 154. Alternatively, the desiccant-desiccant heat exchanger 156 can facilitate indirect heat exchange between concentrated liquid desiccant 152 and diluted liquid desiccant 154, such as via a vapor compression heat pump. In addition to or instead of the heat exchanger 156, auxiliary heating and cooling sources (e.g., heating and cooling fluids, such as water) can be used to heat the diluted liquid desiccant 154 and cool the concentrated liquid desiccant 152, respectively. The liquid desiccant circuit 108 may include, in addition to the reference... Figure 1 Additional or other components in addition to those shown and described.

[0037] Therefore, in the example operating mode of the HVAC system 100, sensible heat cooling of the first inlet airflow 110 is facilitated by the first three-way heat exchanger 136 of the regulator subsystem 104, which transfers heat from the inlet airflow 110 to the regulator heat transfer fluid. The heat removed from the first inlet airflow 110 is then sequentially transferred between subsystems 104, 102, and 106 via the evaporator 118 and condenser 120, and is finally discharged into the second inlet airflow 114 via the second three-way heat exchanger 144. The first three-way heat exchanger 136 also facilitates latent heat cooling of the first inlet airflow 110 by removing moisture from the inlet airflow 110 using a concentrated liquid desiccant 152. The moisture absorbed by the diluted liquid desiccant 154 is desorbed into the second inlet air stream 114 in the second three-way heat exchanger 144. The second inlet air stream 114 regenerates the concentrated liquid desiccant 152, and then the concentrated liquid desiccant 152 is guided back to the first three-way heat exchanger 136.

[0038] HVAC system 100 can be referenced in addition to the above. Figure 1The system operates in alternative operating modes other than the described example operating mode. The example operating mode of the HVAC system 100 described above can be considered as a warm weather operating mode of the HVAC system 100, in which warm, humid air in the first inlet airflow 110 is cooled and dehumidified using the regulator subsystem 104, and the removed heat and moisture are transferred by subsystems 102 and 106 and the liquid desiccant circuit 108 and discharged into the second inlet airflow 114 to produce a heated, humidified outlet airflow 116 directed into the warm, humid environment. In the cold weather operating mode of the HVAC system 100, the operation of subsystems 102 to 106 and the liquid desiccant circuit 108 can be reversed, such that the first three-way heat exchanger 136 heats and humidifies the cold, dry air in the first inlet airflow 110 to produce warm air with a comfortable humidity level in the outlet airflow 112 directed into the regulated space. In cold weather operating modes, the flow directions of the refrigerant in loop 126 and the liquid desiccant in loop 108 can be reversed, allowing air handling subsystems 104 and 106 to switch their respective functions. Alternatively, the inlet and outlet vents for the first inlet airflow 110 and the second inlet airflow 114 can be rearranged and / or reconfigured, causing the airflow guided through the first three-way heat exchanger 136 and the second three-way heat exchanger 144 to be reversed, wherein outlet airflow 112 is guided back to the ambient environment and outlet airflow 116 is guided toward the conditioned space. In other operating modes of the HVAC system 100, one of the air handling subsystems 104 and 106 can be idled or omitted from the HVAC system 100, depending on operating requirements and desired setpoint temperature and humidity levels within the conditioned space. For example, depending on the operating mode of the HVAC system 100, air handling subsystem 106 can be omitted, and refrigerant subsystem 104 can discharge or absorb heat from the refrigerant-air heat exchanger 120. When the regenerator subsystem 106 is omitted or idle, the liquid desiccant circulating in the liquid desiccant circuit 108 through the first three-way heat exchanger 136 can be regenerated or diluted using auxiliary regeneration equipment, dilution tanks, etc., depending on the operating mode of the HVAC system 100.

[0039] Still refer to Figure 1 The first three-way heat exchanger 136 and the second three-way heat exchanger 144 have substantially the same configuration. In alternative embodiments, the first three-way heat exchanger 136 and the second three-way heat exchanger 144 may have different configurations. Although the regulator subsystem 104 and the regenerator subsystem 106 are in Figure 1The diagram shows one three-way heat exchanger 136 and 144 respectively, but any suitable number of three-way heat exchangers 136 and 144 can be included in the respective subsystems 104 and 106. The number of three-way heat exchangers 136 included in the regulator subsystem 104 can be the same as or different from the number of three-way heat exchangers 144 included in the regenerator subsystem 106. When the regulator subsystem 104 includes multiple three-way heat exchangers 136, the heat exchangers 136 can operate in series, in parallel, or in any combination of series and parallel. When the regenerator subsystem 106 includes multiple three-way heat exchangers 144, the heat exchangers 144 can operate in series, in parallel, or in any combination of series and parallel.

[0040] Now refer to Figures 2 to 5 Now we will describe the use of in Figure 1 An example three-way heat exchanger 200 is used in the air handling subsystem of the HVAC system 100. The three-way heat exchanger 200 can be implemented as a first three-way heat exchanger 136 in the regulator subsystem 104 and / or a second three-way heat exchanger 144 in the regenerator subsystem 106. Figure 2 This is a front perspective view of the 200 three-way heat exchanger. Figure 3 This is a front perspective view of a three-way heat exchanger 200, in which various components are omitted to show the internal components of the three-way heat exchanger 200. Figure 4 This is a rear 3D view of the 200 three-way heat exchanger. Figure 5 This is a rear perspective view of a three-way heat exchanger 200, in which, similar to... Figure 3 Various components have been omitted.

[0041] The three-way heat exchanger 200 has dimensions on the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are perpendicular to each other. As described herein regarding the three-way heat exchanger 200 and its components during assembly, the dimension on the Z-axis may be referred to as “height,” the dimension on the Y-axis may be referred to as “length,” and the dimension on the X-axis may be referred to as “width.” The three-way heat exchanger 200 defines a lateral direction on the X-axis, a longitudinal direction on the Y-axis, and a vertical direction on the Z-axis. The X-axis may also be referred to herein as the lateral axis, the Y-axis may also be referred to herein as the longitudinal axis, and the Z-axis may also be referred to herein as the vertical axis. The three-way heat exchanger 200 has opposing first lateral sides 202 and second lateral sides 204, first longitudinal sides 206 and second longitudinal sides 208, and first vertical sides 210 and second vertical sides 212. The first lateral side portion 202 and the second lateral side portion 204 are spaced apart in the lateral direction, the first longitudinal side portion 206 and the second longitudinal side portion 208 are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction, and the first vertical side portion 210 and the second vertical side portion 212 are spaced apart in the vertical direction. Directional terms are used only to describe the spatial relationships of the three-way heat exchanger 200 and its components. The examples shown and described are not limited to any particular orientation.

[0042] The three-way heat exchanger 200 includes a set of panel assemblies 214 arranged continuously in the lateral direction between a first lateral side 202 and a second lateral side 204. (Refer to below...) Figures 7 to 1 0. The individual panel assemblies 214 are described in more detail. Each panel assembly 214 is in the form of a plate structure having an internal heat transfer fluid channel through which heat transfer fluid, such as regulator heat transfer fluid in loop 138 or regenerator heat transfer fluid in loop 146, flows. Each panel assembly 214 also includes a liquid desiccant channel on the opposite side of the heat transfer fluid channel. Liquid desiccant, such as concentrated liquid desiccant 152 or diluted liquid desiccant 154 in liquid desiccant loop 108, flows through the liquid desiccant channel. The liquid desiccant flowing through the liquid desiccant channel is separated from the heat transfer fluid flowing through the heat transfer fluid channel of the respective panel assembly, and heat exchange occurs between the liquid desiccant in the liquid desiccant channel and the heat transfer fluid flowing through the heat transfer fluid channel. Airflow gaps 216, also referred to as air gaps 216, are defined in the lateral direction between adjacent panel assemblies 214. Each airflow gap 216 extends primarily in the vertical and longitudinal directions.

[0043] The three-way heat exchanger 200 may include any suitable number of panel assemblies 214. For example, the three-way heat exchanger 200 may include 1 to 200 panel assemblies 214, 1 to 100 panel assemblies 214, 50 to 200 panel assemblies 214, 50 to 100 panel assemblies 214, such as one panel assembly, ten panel assemblies 214, twenty panel assemblies 214, thirty panel assemblies 214, forty panel assemblies 214, fifty panel assemblies 214, sixty panel assemblies 214, seventy panel assemblies 214, eighty panel assemblies 214, ninety panel assemblies 214, 100 panel assemblies 214, or more than 100 panel assemblies 214.

[0044] Panel assembly 214 is supported on base 240 at the second vertical side 212 of the three-way heat exchanger 200. Panel assembly 214 extends substantially parallel to each other between base 240 and first vertical side 210 of the three-way heat exchanger 200. During operation of the three-way heat exchanger 200, panel assembly 214 may deviate from its substantially parallel range as fluid flows through panel assembly 214 and / or as air flows through air gap 216 between adjacent panel assemblies 214.

[0045] The three-way heat exchanger 200 includes end plates 218 and 220 located at a first lateral side 202 and a second lateral side 204, respectively. End plate 218 provides lateral support for the panel assembly 214 and clamps the panel assembly 214 together. End plates 218 and 220 enclose the interior 222 of the three-way heat exchanger 200 at the first lateral side 202 and the second lateral side 204. Figure 3 and Figure 5 End plates 218 and 220 are omitted to illustrate the arrangement of panel assemblies 214, airflow gaps 216 defined between adjacent panel assemblies 214, and the interior 222 of the three-way heat exchanger 200 in more detail. The interior 222 of the three-way heat exchanger 200 may be enclosed by the panel assemblies 214 at the first vertical side 210 and the second vertical side 212 of the three-way heat exchanger. For example, adjacent panel assemblies 214 may be connected and / or in contact with each other at opposite vertical ends to seal the corresponding airflow gaps 216 defined between adjacent panel assemblies 214 at opposite vertical ends, and enclose the interior 222 of the three-way heat exchanger at the first vertical side 210 and the second vertical side 212. Additionally and / or alternatively, the three-way heat exchanger 200 may include vertical end plates (not shown) to enclose the interior 222 at the first vertical side 210 and the second vertical side 212.

[0046] The three-way heat exchanger 200 includes an airflow inlet 224 on a first longitudinal side 206 and an airflow outlet 226 on a second longitudinal side 208. The airflow inlet 224 and airflow outlet 226 are defined by longitudinal side panels 228 and 230 of the three-way heat exchanger 200, respectively. For example, the longitudinal side panels 228 and 230 may include openings in the form of a grille or grille opening, baffle, louver, damper, or may have any other suitable opening configuration to allow airflow to enter and exit the three-way heat exchanger 200. In some examples, one or both of the longitudinal side panels 228 and 230 may include a filter for filtering particles and / or contaminants from the airflow processed by the three-way heat exchanger 200. The airflow inlet 224 and airflow outlet 226 communicate with an airflow gap 216 defined between adjacent panel assemblies 214 and allow inlet airflow (e.g., Figure 1 The first inlet airflow 110 or the second inlet airflow 114 flows longitudinally through the three-way heat exchanger 200. Figure 3 and Figure 5 The longitudinal side panels 228 and 230 are omitted to show in more detail the arrangement of panel assembly 214, the airflow gap 216 defined between adjacent panel assemblies 214, and the interior 222 of the three-way heat exchanger 200.

[0047] The three-way heat exchanger 200 also includes a heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and a heat transfer fluid outlet 234, as well as a liquid desiccant inlet 236 and a liquid desiccant outlet 238. The heat transfer fluid (e.g., in...) Figure 1 The heat transfer fluid (circulating in one of the heat transfer fluid loops 138 or 146) enters and exits the three-way heat exchanger 200 via the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and the heat transfer fluid outlet 234, respectively. Liquid desiccant (e.g., circulating) Figure 1 The liquid desiccant circuit 108 enters and exits the three-way heat exchanger 200 via the liquid desiccant inlet 236 and the liquid desiccant outlet 238, respectively.

[0048] like Figure 4As shown, the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and heat transfer fluid outlet 234, as well as the liquid desiccant inlet 236 and liquid desiccant outlet 238, are each located on the same longitudinal side (e.g., the second longitudinal side 208) of the three-way heat exchanger 200. This simplifies the installation of the three-way heat exchanger 200 and / or reduces the volume of the heat exchanger 200 in the air handling subsystem during installation. Positioning the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and heat transfer fluid outlet 234, as well as the liquid desiccant inlet 236 and liquid desiccant outlet 238, on the second longitudinal side 208 further simplifies the installation and / or reduces the volume of the three-way heat exchanger 200, because the second longitudinal side 208 can be appropriately oriented toward other components of the air handling subsystem during installation. The second longitudinal side 208 includes an airflow outlet 226, which is oriented opposite to the external environment toward which the airflow inlet 224 is oriented. Therefore, the second longitudinal side 208 may be oriented toward and / or connected to the duct system and other components of the air handling subsystem, such that when installed, it may be appropriately positioned opposite to the first longitudinal side 206 and airflow inlet 224 of the three-way heat exchanger 200.

[0049] In addition, such as Figure 4As shown, the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and heat transfer fluid outlet 234 are located on opposite lateral and vertical sides of the three-way heat exchanger 200. The liquid desiccant inlet 236 and liquid desiccant outlet 238 are also located on opposite lateral and vertical sides of the three-way heat exchanger 200. In the illustrated example, both the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and liquid desiccant outlet 238 are positioned close to the second vertical side 212 and the second lateral side 204, and both the heat transfer fluid outlet 234 and liquid desiccant inlet 236 are positioned close to the first vertical side 210 and the first lateral side 202. In some examples, the respective positions of the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and heat transfer fluid outlet 234 and / or the respective positions of the liquid desiccant inlet 236 and liquid desiccant outlet 238 may be interchanged. For example, both the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and the liquid desiccant inlet 236 can be positioned close to the second vertical side 212 and the second lateral side 204, and both the heat transfer fluid outlet 234 and the liquid desiccant outlet 238 can be positioned close to the first vertical side 210 and the first lateral side 202. Alternatively, both the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and the liquid desiccant inlet 236 can be positioned close to the first vertical side 210 and the first lateral side 202, and both the heat transfer fluid outlet 234 and the liquid desiccant outlet 238 can be positioned close to the second vertical side 212 and the second lateral side 204. Alternatively, both the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and the liquid desiccant outlet 238 can be positioned close to the first vertical side 210 and the first lateral side 202, and both the heat transfer fluid outlet 234 and the liquid desiccant inlet 236 can be positioned close to the second vertical side 212 and the second lateral side 204. The positions of the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and heat transfer fluid outlet 234, and the liquid desiccant inlet 236 and liquid desiccant outlet 238, can vary depending on the desired flow direction of the heat transfer fluid and liquid desiccant through the panel assembly 214. The liquid desiccant inlet 236 and heat transfer fluid outlet 234 may be defined by (e.g., integrally formed with) end plate 218, and the liquid desiccant outlet 238 and heat transfer fluid inlet 232 may be defined by (e.g., integrally formed with) end plate 220. Alternatively, the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and heat transfer fluid outlet 234, and the liquid desiccant inlet 236 and liquid desiccant outlet 238, may each be defined by a conduit (e.g., pipe, tube, hose, or other suitable fluid conduit) extending longitudinally through openings in the respective end plates 218 and 220.

[0050] Reference Figures 7 to 9 An example panel assembly 300 suitable for use as a standalone panel assembly 214 will now be described. In the example tee heat exchanger 200, all panel assemblies 214 are connected to... Figures 7 to 9The panel assembly 300 shown has a substantially the same configuration. Some or all of the panel assemblies in panel assembly 214 may include additional, fewer, or other components compared to panel assembly 300. Figure 7 This is the right-side view of example panel component 300. Figure 8 This is an exploded view of panel component 300. Figure 9 It is along Figure 7 A schematic cross-section of panel assembly 300 is shown in section line 9-9. The spatial relationships of the components of panel assembly 300 will be described relative to the X, Y, and Z axes, and the lateral, longitudinal, and vertical directions defined by the three-way heat exchanger 200. The orientation of panel assembly 300 in its implementation and installation within the three-way heat exchanger 200 will also be described. Orientational terms are used only for ease of description of the components of panel assembly 300. The examples shown and described are not limited to any particular orientation.

[0051] The panel assembly 300 includes a frame 302 that defines a first vertical end 304 and a second vertical end 306 on the Z-axis, a first lateral surface 305 and a second lateral surface 307 on the X-axis, and a first longitudinal end 308 and a second longitudinal end 310 on the Y-axis. The frame 302 includes a first manifold section 312 and a second manifold section 314 located opposite each other at the first vertical end 304 and the second vertical end 306, respectively. The frame 302 also includes an intermediate section 316 between the opposite manifold sections 312 and 314. Manifold sections 312 and 314 define liquid desiccant manifold regions 320 and 322, respectively. The intermediate section 316 defines a heat transfer fluid region 324. Liquid desiccant manifold regions 320 and 322 are separated from heat transfer fluid region 324 by portions of frame 302 that extend between heat transfer fluid region 324 and one of liquid desiccant manifold regions 320 and 322, respectively.

[0052] The panel assembly 300 also includes a first plate 326 and a second plate 328 disposed on opposite lateral surfaces of the frame 302, covering the middle section 316 of the frame 302. The first plate 326 and the second plate 328 may be attached to the frame 302 or may be integrally formed with the frame 302. Suitable techniques for attaching the plates 326 and 328 to the frame 302 may include, for example, welding (e.g., laser welding, induction welding, or radio frequency welding), adhesive bonding, thermal bonding, or another suitable technique for joining materials together. The frame 302 and the plates 326 and 328 may be made of different but compatible materials for welding together. For example, the plates 326 and 328 may be made of compatible polymer materials for welding to the frame 302. The materials used for the plates 326 and 328 may also be selected based on their compatibility with the liquid desiccant used in the three-way heat exchanger 200. Suitable polymeric materials for plates 326 and 328 include, for example, polyolefins (e.g., polypropylene and / or polyethylene), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and combinations thereof. Plates 326 and 328 may include additives that improve properties such as laser absorption and electrical conductivity, as well as the strength and / or stiffness of plates 326 and 328. In other examples, frame 302 and plates 326 and 328 may be made of any other suitable material that enables the three-way heat exchanger 200 to function as described.

[0053] Plates 326 and 328 enclose and seal the heat transfer fluid region 324 of the frame, thereby defining a heat transfer fluid channel 330 of the panel assembly 300 between plates 326 and 328 (see [link]). Figure 9 As described below, in the operation of the three-way heat exchanger 200, a heat transfer fluid flows between plates 326 and 328 through a heat transfer fluid channel 330, and a liquid desiccant flows on the outer surfaces of plates 326 and 328 opposite to the heat transfer fluid channel 330. Plates 326 and 328 isolate the liquid desiccant from the heat transfer fluid in the channel 330 and allow heat transfer between the liquid desiccant and the heat transfer fluid. Plates 326 and 328 may extend over one or both of the liquid desiccant manifold regions 320 and 322 and define openings (e.g., orifices 360) aligned with one or both of the liquid desiccant manifold regions 320 and 322 to allow the liquid desiccant to flow through said openings. In the example panel assembly 300, each of plates 326 and 328 includes a series of orifices 360 positioned adjacent to the liquid desiccant manifold 320 and a series of orifices 362 positioned adjacent to the liquid desiccant manifold region 322. Liquid desiccant can flow through orifices 360 and 362 of each plate 326 and 328 to enter and / or exit liquid desiccant manifold areas 320 and 322, respectively.

[0054] A mesh or perforation (not shown) may be provided in the heat transfer fluid channel 330 to maintain the width of the heat transfer fluid channel under negative pressure. The mesh or perforation may also facilitate a more constant flow rate of the heat transfer fluid through the channel 330. The mesh or perforation may also facilitate improved flow distribution of the heat transfer fluid between the panel assemblies 300 in the tee heat exchanger 200. The mesh or perforation may also provide turbulence of the heat transfer fluid to increase heat transfer with the liquid desiccant flowing on the outer surfaces of plates 326 and 328. A wide variety of materials can be used for the mesh or perforation. For example, the mesh or perforation may comprise the same polymer material as the plates (e.g., polyolefin, ABS, or combinations thereof).

[0055] Panel assembly 300 also includes membranes 332 and 334 disposed on opposite lateral surfaces 305 and 307 of frame 302. In other examples, panel assembly 300 may include only one of membranes 332 or 334. Membranes 332 and 334 cover the outer surfaces of plates 326 and 328. Figure 9 As shown, liquid desiccant channels 336 and 338 are defined between membrane 332 and plate 326, and between membrane 334 and plate 328, respectively. Membranes 332 and 334 also enclose and seal liquid desiccant manifold regions 320 and 322. Each liquid desiccant channel 336 and 338 is fluidly connected to liquid desiccant manifold regions 320 and 322. As described below, in operation of the three-way heat exchanger 200, liquid desiccant flows through one of liquid desiccant manifold regions 320 or 322, enters liquid desiccant channels 336 and 338, above the outer surfaces of plates 326 and 328 and behind membranes 332 and 334, and finally enters the other of liquid desiccant manifold regions 320 or 322. Plates 326 and 328 restrict contact between the liquid desiccant flowing in liquid desiccant channels 336 and 338 and the heat transfer fluid flowing through heat transfer fluid channels 330, and enable heat transfer therebetween. In examples where the panel assembly 300 includes only one of membranes 332 or 334, only one liquid desiccant channel 336 or 338 may be defined between membrane 332 or 334 and plate 326 or 328. In these examples, plate 326 or 328 on the lateral surface 305 or 307 opposite to liquid desiccant channel 336 or 338 may enclose and seal liquid desiccant manifold regions 320 and 322, and restrict the flow of liquid desiccant opposite liquid desiccant channel 336 or 338.

[0056] Membranes 332 and 334 are attached to one of the side surfaces 305 and 307 of frame 302, respectively, to enclose and seal the liquid desiccant manifold regions 320 and 322. Membranes 332 and 334 may also be attached to the outer surfaces of the corresponding plates 326 and 328, which can help maintain the width of the liquid desiccant channels 336 and 338 and / or limit the tendency of membranes 332 and 334 to bulge outwards as the liquid desiccant flows through the channels 336 and 338. Membranes 332 and 334 may be attached to the side surfaces 305 and 307 of frame 302 and / or the outer surfaces of plates 326 and 328 using any suitable technique, such as adhesive bonding or heat sealing (e.g., welding). Membranes 332 and 334 can be directly attached to plates 326 and 328, respectively, by heat sealing (e.g., welding), wherein a compatible material (e.g., polyolefin) is used for membranes 332 and 334 and the corresponding plates 326 and 328. An external adhesive layer (not shown) can be applied to the outer surfaces of plates 326 and 328 to improve the quality or ease of forming a heat seal (e.g., welding) with the corresponding membranes 332 and 334. The outer surfaces of plates 326 and 328 may include raised patterns or dot features (not shown) to which membranes 332 and 334 are adhered, heat-sealed, or otherwise attached. Raised patterns can be formed on frame 302 and / or plates 326 and 328 by thermoforming, embossing, or other suitable techniques. Attaching membranes 332 and 334 to dot features or raised patterns can provide the additional advantage of promoting uniform distribution of liquid desiccant across liquid desiccant channels 336 and 338 in the longitudinal direction and reducing stresses that may cause warping of plates 326 and 328. Warping of plates 326 and 328 may reduce the ability of the tee heat exchanger 200 to transfer heat and moisture between the heat transfer fluid, liquid desiccant, and air flowing through membranes 332 and 334 during operation. Additional details regarding the attachment of membranes 332 and 334 to frame 302 and corresponding plates 326 and 328 are described in U.S. Patent No. 11,022,330, published June 1, 2021, and U.S. Patent No. 10,921,001, published February 16, 2021, the entire disclosure of each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0057] Membranes 332 and 334 are made of a vapor-permeable material that allows water vapor to pass through them, enabling liquid desiccant flowing in liquid desiccant channels 336 and 338 to absorb moisture from the air flowing through membranes 332 and 334 and decompose water into the air flowing through membranes 332 and 334. In some examples, membranes 332 and 334 may each be made of polypropylene or other suitable vapor-permeable polymeric materials. The vapor-permeable material used for membranes 332 and 334 may be microporous (e.g., having a pore size of less than 0.5 micrometers (µm)). Examples of suitable microporous membranes are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,101,874, published August 11, 2015, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. For example, suitable commercially available membranes include the EZ2090 polypropylene microporous membrane from Celgard. Microporous membranes 332 and 334 can have an open area of ​​40% to 80%, a pore size of less than 0.5 µm, and a thickness of less than 100 µm. Some example microporous membranes can have an open area of ​​greater than 80%. A suitable membrane has an open area of ​​about 65% and a thickness of about 20 µm. The pore size of this type of membrane is structurally very uniform and thin enough not to create a significant thermal barrier. Other possible membranes include those from 3M, Lydall, and other manufacturers. Membranes 332 and 334 can comprise any suitable vapor-permeable material that allows water to pass through it, such that the liquid desiccant in the liquid desiccant channels 336 and 338 can absorb moisture from the air flowing through membranes 332 and 334 or decompose water into the air flowing through membranes 332 and 334.

[0058] Frame 302 defines a liquid desiccant inlet port 340 for supplying liquid desiccant into a liquid desiccant manifold region 320 and a liquid desiccant outlet port 342 for receiving liquid desiccant from the liquid desiccant manifold region 322. The liquid desiccant inlet port 340 is defined by a first manifold section 312 and positioned adjacent to the liquid desiccant manifold region 320 at a first vertical end 304 of the panel assembly 300 and the second longitudinal end 310. The liquid desiccant outlet port 342 is defined by a second manifold section 314 and positioned adjacent to the liquid desiccant manifold region 322 at a second vertical end 306 of the panel assembly 300 and the first longitudinal end 308. Therefore, the liquid desiccant inlet port 340 and the liquid desiccant outlet port 342 are located at opposite longitudinal and vertical ends of the panel assembly 300.

[0059] As by Figure 7 and Figure 9As indicated by flow line 344, in the operation of the three-way heat exchanger 200, liquid desiccant is supplied to the liquid desiccant manifold region 320 of the panel assembly 300 via liquid desiccant inlet port 340, flows through each of liquid desiccant channels 336 and 338 and enters the liquid desiccant manifold region 322, and exits the panel assembly 300 via liquid desiccant outlet port 342. In the illustrated example, the liquid desiccant flows vertically downward. The liquid desiccant may have an alternative flow direction. For example, the liquid desiccant may flow vertically upward through liquid desiccant channels 336 and 338, be supplied to the liquid desiccant manifold region 322, and exit via the liquid desiccant manifold region 320. In other examples, the orientation of the panel 300 in the three-way heat exchanger 200 may allow the liquid desiccant to flow in a substantially horizontal direction. In yet another example, panel 300 may be oriented at an angle in three-way heat exchanger 200, allowing liquid desiccant to flow in both the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0060] Frame 302 further defines a heat transfer fluid inlet port 346 for supplying heat transfer fluid into the heat transfer fluid channel 330 and a heat transfer fluid outlet port 348 for receiving heat transfer fluid from the heat transfer fluid channel 330. The heat transfer fluid inlet port 346 and the heat transfer fluid outlet port 348 are defined by an intermediate segment 316 and are located at opposite vertical ends of the heat transfer fluid channel 330. The heat transfer fluid inlet port 346 is positioned near a second vertical end 306 of the panel assembly 300, and the heat transfer fluid outlet port 348 is positioned near a first vertical end 304 of the panel assembly 300. The heat transfer fluid inlet port 346 and the heat transfer fluid outlet port 348 are also located at opposite longitudinal ends of the heat transfer fluid channel 330, with the heat transfer fluid inlet port 346 located at a second longitudinal end 310 and the heat transfer fluid outlet port 348 located at a first longitudinal end 308 of the panel assembly 300.

[0061] As by Figure 7 and Figure 9As indicated by flow line 350, in the operation of the three-way heat exchanger 200, the heat transfer fluid is supplied to, flows through, and exits the panel assembly 300 via the heat transfer fluid inlet port 346 into the heat transfer fluid channel 330 of the panel assembly 300, and exits the panel assembly 300 via the heat transfer fluid outlet port 348. In the illustrated example, the flow direction of the heat transfer fluid is vertically upward. The heat transfer fluid may have an alternative flow direction. For example, the heat transfer fluid may flow vertically downward through the heat transfer fluid channel 330. In other examples, the orientation of the panel 300 in the three-way heat exchanger 200 may allow the heat transfer fluid to flow in a substantially horizontal flow direction. In yet another example, the panel 300 may be oriented at an angle in the three-way heat exchanger 200, allowing the heat transfer fluid to flow in both vertical and horizontal directions. In the illustrated example, the heat transfer fluid and the liquid desiccant flow through the panel assembly 300 in a countercurrent relationship relative to each other. In other examples, the heat transfer fluid and the liquid desiccant may flow through the panel assembly 300 in the same flow direction.

[0062] Figures 10A to 10D They are Figure 8 Enlarged views of portions A, B, C, and D of frame 302 are shown, depicting microchannels or orifices providing fluid connections between ports 340, 342, 346, and 348 defined in panel assembly 300 and corresponding fluid regions. Figure 10A and Figure 10B As shown, the heat transfer fluid inlet port 346 passes through orifice 352 ( Figure 10B ) is connected to the heat transfer fluid region 324, and the heat transfer fluid outlet port 348 is connected to the orifice 354 ( Figure 10A It is connected to the heat transfer fluid region 324. The heat transfer fluid region 324 defines the heat transfer fluid passage 330 when sealed on the opposite side surfaces 305 and 307 of the frame 302 by plates 326 and 328. As by Figure 10A and Figure 10B As indicated by the flow line 350, the heat transfer fluid enters the heat transfer fluid channel 330 from the inlet port 346 via the orifice 352, and exits the channel 330 via the orifice 354 to enter the outlet port 348.

[0063] like Figure 10C and Figure 10D As shown, the liquid desiccant inlet port 340 passes through orifice 356 ( Figure 10C ) connected to the first liquid desiccant manifold area 320 and the liquid desiccant outlet port 342 through the orifice 358 ( Figure 10D Connected to the second liquid desiccant manifold area 322. (As per...) Figure 10C and Figure 10DAs indicated by flow line 344, liquid desiccant enters the first liquid desiccant manifold region 320 from inlet port 340 via orifice 356, and flows through liquid desiccant channels 336 and 338. Figure 9 It enters the second liquid desiccant manifold region 322 and exits through orifice 358 into outlet port 342. Figures 10A to 10D In the illustrated example, each of apertures 352 to 358 comprises two apertures. Any suitable number of apertures can be used for apertures 352 to 358. In some examples, a greater number of apertures may be used for some of apertures 352 to 358 than for the others. The number, size, and / or shape of apertures 352 to 358 may be the same or different. The number, size, and shape of the apertures used for each of apertures 352 to 358 may also vary among panel assemblies 300.

[0064] Refer again Figure 3 and Figure 5 And another reference shows something similar Figure 3 and Figure 5 Left view of the 200 three-way heat exchanger, omitting various components. Figure 6 Multiple panel components 214 are arranged sequentially in the lateral direction as described above. Each panel component 214 may be a panel component 300, and for ease of description, will be referred to as panel component 300 below. Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 For ease of explanation, plates 326 and 328, as well as membranes 332 and 334, are omitted.

[0065] When assembled and installed in the three-way heat exchanger 200, for each pair of adjacent panel assemblies 300, the membrane 332 of one panel assembly 300 faces the membrane 334 of the other panel assembly 300. An airflow gap 216 is defined between the adjacent membranes 332 and 334. Each panel assembly 300 has a reduced width on the intermediate section 316. Adjacent panel assemblies 300 are connected via their adjacent manifold sections 312 and 314 and are spaced apart on their adjacent intermediate sections 316 to define the airflow gap 216. The manifold sections 312 and 314 of adjacent panel assemblies 300 can be connected by any suitable means, such as fasteners. The manifold sections 312 and 314 may include sealing members (e.g., O-rings or elastomeric seals) that create a fluid tight seal between the manifold sections 312 and 314 of adjacent panel assemblies 300 when connected. Therefore, the manifold sections 312 and 314 of the panel assembly 300 can enclose the three-way heat exchanger 200 at the first vertical end 210 and the second vertical end 212, and the intermediate section 316 defining the airflow gap 216 allows air to flow longitudinally between the airflow inlet 224 and the airflow outlet 226. Each panel assembly 300 may include a support or spacer (not labeled) extending laterally outward from the intermediate section 316 along opposite longitudinal ends 308 and 310. The support or spacer can maintain the spacing between the intermediate sections 316 of adjacent panel assemblies 300, and thus maintain the width of the airflow gap 216 defined between the intermediate sections 316 of adjacent panel assemblies 300.

[0066] Panel assemblies 300 are arranged in the three-way heat exchanger 200 such that, for each panel assembly, the first lateral surface 305 and the second lateral surface 307 of the frame 302 are oriented toward the first lateral side 202 and the second lateral side 204 of the three-way heat exchanger 200, respectively. A first longitudinal end 308 and a second longitudinal end 310 are located at the first longitudinal side 206 and the second longitudinal side 208 of the three-way heat exchanger 200, respectively, and a first vertical end 304 and a second vertical end 306 are located at the first vertical side 210 and the second vertical side 212 of the three-way heat exchanger 200, respectively.

[0067] Ports 340, 342, 346, and 348 of panel assembly 300 are aligned to define corresponding manifolds extending laterally in the three-way heat exchanger 200 through which heat transfer fluids and liquid desiccant flow into and out of panel assembly 300 between a first lateral side 202 and a second lateral side 204. Liquid desiccant inlet port 340 of panel assembly 300 is aligned to form a liquid desiccant inlet manifold 242 extending near a first vertical side 210 and a second longitudinal side 208 of the three-way heat exchanger 200 between the first lateral side 202 and the second lateral side 204. The liquid desiccant outlet port 342 of the panel assembly 300 is aligned to form a liquid desiccant outlet manifold 244, which extends close to the second vertical side 212 and the first longitudinal side 206 of the three-way heat exchanger 200 between the first lateral side 202 and the second lateral side 204. The heat transfer fluid inlet port 346 of the panel assembly 300 is aligned to form a heat transfer fluid inlet manifold 246, which extends close to the second vertical side 212 and the second longitudinal side 208 of the three-way heat exchanger 200 between the first lateral side 202 and the second lateral side 204. The heat transfer fluid outlet port 348 of the panel assembly 300 is aligned to form a heat transfer fluid outlet manifold 248, which extends close to the first vertical side 210 and the first longitudinal side 206 of the three-way heat exchanger 200 between the first lateral side 202 and the second lateral side 204. Panel assembly 300 may include O-rings or other elastomeric sealing members that form a fluid tight seal between the alignment ports 340, 342, 346 and 348 of adjacent panel assemblies to prevent fluid leakage from the respective manifold 242 to manifold 248.

[0068] like Figure 3 and Figure 5As shown, conduits 250, 252, 254, and 256 are used to fluidly connect the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and heat transfer fluid outlet 234, and the liquid desiccant inlet 236 and liquid desiccant outlet 238 to the respective manifolds for allowing the heat transfer fluid and liquid desiccant to enter and exit the tee heat exchanger 200. The liquid desiccant inlet 236 is fluidly connected to the liquid desiccant inlet manifold 242 via conduit 250. The liquid desiccant outlet 238 is fluidly connected to the liquid desiccant outlet manifold 244 via conduit 252. The heat transfer fluid inlet 232 is fluidly connected to the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold 246 via conduit 254. The heat transfer fluid outlet 234 is fluidly connected to the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold 248 via conduit 256. Conduits 250 to 256 may include any suitable fluid conduit (rigid and / or flexible) that allows the heat transfer fluid and liquid desiccant to flow between the respective inlet and outlet and the manifold, including, for example, but not limited to, pipes, hoses, tubes, and combinations thereof. Each conduit 250 to conduit 256 can be attached to the corresponding manifold 242 to manifold 248 by connecting the end of the conduit to the end panel assembly 300 (i.e., the panel assembly 300 immediately adjacent to the lateral side 202 or 204) at one of the appropriate ports 340, 342, 346, and 348. Conduits 250 to conduit 256 can be attached to the appropriate ports 340, 342, 346, and 348 of the end panel assembly 300 using any suitable means—including fasteners, threads, clamps, etc.

[0069] As described above, heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and heat transfer fluid outlet 234, as well as liquid desiccant inlet 236 and liquid desiccant outlet 238, are each located on the longitudinal side 208 of the three-way heat exchanger 200. Conduits 250 to 256 extend longitudinally at an angle of approximately 90° relative to the lateral extent of their respective manifolds 242 to 248 connected to them. Conduits 250 to 256 each have a suitable longitudinal extent depending on the longitudinal position of the respective manifolds 242 to 248 relative to the longitudinal side 208 of the heat exchanger 200. Conduits 250 and 254 have shorter longitudinal extents than conduits 252 and 256 because manifolds 242 and 246 extend closer to the second longitudinal side 208, and manifolds 244 and 248 extend closer to the first longitudinal side 206. Conduits 250 to 256 also extend at substantially the same vertical height as the corresponding manifolds 242 to 248 to minimize the extent of the conduits and reduce the volume of the heat exchanger 200. Therefore, conduits 250 and 252 extend on opposite vertical sides, and conduits 254 and 256 extend on opposite vertical sides of the heat exchanger 200. Additionally, conduits 250 and 252 extend on opposite lateral sides because the liquid desiccant inlet 236 and liquid desiccant outlet 238 are located on opposite lateral sides of the heat exchanger 200, and conduits 254 and 256 extend on opposite lateral sides because the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and heat transfer fluid outlet 234 are located on opposite lateral sides of the heat exchanger 200.

[0070] Each of manifolds 242 to 248 is closed at a lateral side 202 or 204 of the heat exchanger 200 opposite to the inlet or outlet to which the manifold is connected. Thus, the liquid desiccant inlet manifold 242 is closed at the second lateral side 204, the liquid desiccant outlet manifold 244 is closed at the first lateral side 202 opposite to the liquid desiccant inlet manifold 242, the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold 246 is closed at the first lateral side 202, and the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold 248 is closed at the second lateral side 204 opposite to the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold 246. Manifolds 242 to 248 can be closed via end plates 218 or 220 (…). Figure 2 and Figure 4 (As shown) closures are made at the corresponding lateral sides 202 or 204. Specifically, end plate 218 may block ports 342 and 346 of panel assembly 300 at the end of panel assembly 300 adjacent to the first lateral side 202 to close manifolds 244 and 246 at the first lateral side 202. End plate 220 may block ports 340 and 348 of panel assembly 300 at the end of panel assembly 300 adjacent to the second lateral side 204 to close manifolds 244 and 246 at the second lateral side 204. Additionally and / or alternatively, end caps or plugs (see...) Figure 11 It can be inserted into or otherwise positioned above ports 342 and 346 of panel assembly 300 adjacent to the first lateral side 202 to close manifolds 244 and 246 at the first lateral side 202, and can be inserted into or otherwise positioned above ports 340 and 348 of panel assembly 300 adjacent to the second lateral side 204 to close manifolds 244 and 246 at the second lateral side 204.

[0071] Conduits 250 and 256 extend at a first lateral side 202 between end plate 218 and end panel assembly 300. Conduits 252 and 254 extend at a second lateral side 204 between end plate 220 and end panel assembly 300. Conduits 250 and 256 may extend through end plate 218 to define inlet 236 or outlet 234, respectively, and may be coupled to a corresponding inlet 236 or outlet 234 defined by end plate 218, or may be integrally formed with end plate 218 and the corresponding inlet 236 or outlet 234 defined by end plate 218. Conduits 252 and 254 may extend through end plate 220 to define outlet 238 or inlet 232, respectively, and may be coupled to a corresponding outlet 238 or inlet 232 defined by end plate 220, or may be integrally formed with end plate 220 and the corresponding outlet 238 or inlet 232 defined by end plate 220.

[0072] Now refer to Figure 11 The operation of the three-way heat exchanger 200 will now be described. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing an internal view of a three-way heat exchanger 200 to depict the flow of liquid desiccant and heat transfer fluid through manifolds 242 to 248 and the panel assembly 300. Figure 11 In the schematic diagram, for ease of explanation and description, panel assembly 300 is depicted with exaggerated and / or simplified features.

[0073] In the operation of heat exchanger 200, the inlet air flow (e.g., Figure 1 The first inlet airflow 110 or the second inlet airflow 114 shown enters via airflow inlet 224 and flows longitudinally through air gap 216 defined between adjacent panel assemblies 300. The air flowing through air gap 216 is guided through liquid desiccant indicated by flow line 344 and heat transfer fluid indicated by flow line 350 in each panel assembly 300. In some operations, liquid desiccant 344 is concentrated liquid desiccant 152 from liquid desiccant circuit 108, and heat transfer fluid 350 is from... Figure 1The regulator subsystem 104 shown here regulates the heat transfer fluid, and the heat exchanger 200 is used to cool and dehumidify the air flowing through the air gap 216. In other operations, the liquid desiccant 344 is a diluted liquid desiccant 154 from the liquid desiccant loop 108, and the heat transfer fluid 350 is from... Figure 1 The regenerator subsystem 106 shown has a regenerator heat transfer fluid, and the heat exchanger 200 is used to heat the water and discharge the water into the air flowing through the air gap 216.

[0074] Liquid desiccant 344 is delivered via liquid desiccant inlet 236 and conduit 250 ( Figures 3 to 5 (As shown) flows from the first lateral side 202 into the liquid desiccant inlet manifold 242. The inlet manifold 242 is covered or blocked at the second lateral side 204 by an end cap 270 to restrict the flow of liquid desiccant 344 from the manifold 242 at that lateral end. Alternatively, the end plate 220 of the heat exchanger 200 may block the inlet manifold 242 at the second lateral side 204. Liquid desiccant 344 enters from the liquid desiccant inlet manifold 242 into the liquid desiccant manifold region 320 of each panel assembly 300 via orifice 356. In each panel assembly 300, liquid desiccant 344 flows from the liquid desiccant manifold region 320 via orifice 360 ​​on each plate 326 and 328 ( Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, it enters the liquid desiccant channels 336 and 338, flows downward through the liquid desiccant channels 336 and 338, and passes through the orifice 362 on each plate 326 and 328. Figure 7 and Figure 8 (As shown) enters the liquid desiccant manifold region 322. As the liquid desiccant 344 flows behind the membranes 332 and 334 of the panel assembly 300, it absorbs moisture from the air flowing through the air gap 216 adjacent to the membranes 332 and 334 or decomposes water into the air. Moisture is allowed to permeate through each of the membranes 332 and 334 so that moisture can be transferred between the liquid desiccant 344 and the air in the air gap 216. The liquid desiccant 344 that has absorbed or desorbed moisture exits each panel assembly 300 via the orifice 358 from the respective liquid desiccant manifold region 322 and flows toward the second lateral side 204 through the liquid desiccant outlet manifold 244. The outlet manifold 244 is covered or blocked at the first lateral side 202 by an end cap 272 to restrict the flow of liquid desiccant 344 from the manifold 244 at that lateral end. Alternatively, the end plate 218 of the heat exchanger 200 may block the outlet manifold 244 at the first lateral side 202. Liquid desiccant 344 flows through conduit 252 and liquid desiccant outlet 238. Figure 5(As shown in the diagram) exits the heat exchanger 200.

[0075] Heat transfer fluid 350 flows from the second side to the side portion 204 via heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and conduit 254. Figure 4 and Figure 5 (As shown) flows into the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold 246. Heat transfer fluid 350 enters each panel assembly 300 from the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold 246 via orifice 352. The inlet manifold 246 is covered or blocked at a first lateral side 202 by an end cap 274 to restrict the outflow of heat transfer fluid 350 from the manifold 246 at that lateral end. Alternatively, the end plate 218 of the heat exchanger 200 may block the inlet manifold 246 at the first lateral side 202. In each panel assembly 300, heat transfer fluid 350 flows upward through heat transfer fluid passage 330. The heat transfer fluid 350 flowing through passage 330 is in thermal communication with liquid desiccant 344 flowing through liquid desiccant passages 336 and 338. Depending on the operating mode of the heat exchanger 200, heat is transferred between the heat transfer fluid 350 and the liquid desiccant 344 to remove heat from or discharge heat into the air flowing through the air gap 216. The heat transfer fluid 350, having absorbed or discharged heat, exits each panel assembly 300 via orifice 354 and flows toward the first lateral side 202 through the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold 248. The outlet manifold 248 is covered or blocked at the second lateral side 204 by an end cap 276 to restrict the flow of heat transfer fluid 350 from the manifold 248 at that lateral end. Alternatively, the end plate 220 of the heat exchanger 200 may block the outlet manifold 248 at the second lateral side 204. The heat transfer fluid 350 flows through conduit 256 and heat transfer fluid outlet 234 (… Figures 3 to 5 (As shown in the diagram) exits the heat exchanger 200.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment, the flow directions of the heat transfer fluid 350 and the liquid desiccant 344 are merely illustrative and can be varied in other embodiments of the heat exchanger 200. For example, the liquid desiccant 344 may flow upward through desiccant channels 336 and 338 on the panel assembly 300. In these examples, the direction of flow of the liquid desiccant 344 through the liquid desiccant inlet 236 and liquid desiccant outlet 238, as well as the direction of flow of the liquid desiccant inlet manifold 242 and liquid desiccant outlet manifold 244, will also be reversed. The heat transfer fluid 350 may flow downward through the heat transfer channel 330 of the panel assembly 300. In these examples, the direction of flow of the heat transfer fluid 350 through the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and heat transfer fluid outlet 234, as well as the direction of flow of the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold 246 and heat transfer fluid outlet manifold 248, will also be reversed. In the illustrated example, the liquid desiccant 344 and the heat transfer fluid 350 flow in a counter-current relationship, but in alternative examples, they may flow through the panel assembly in the same direction.

[0077] Still refer to Figure 11 The heat transfer fluid 350 flowing through the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold 246 may tend to flow primarily through the panel assembly 300 near the second lateral side 204 of the three-way heat exchanger 200, where the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 is located. As the heat transfer fluid 350 enters the panel assembly 300 along the lateral range of the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold 246, the pressure of the heat transfer fluid 350 in the inlet manifold 246 decreases, and the flow rate of the heat transfer fluid 350 in the panel assembly 300 near the first lateral side 202 of the heat exchanger 200 may decrease relative to the flow rate of the heat transfer fluid 350 in the panel assembly 300 near the second lateral side 204. The liquid desiccant 344 flowing through the liquid desiccant inlet manifold 242 may tend to flow primarily through the panel assembly 300 near the first lateral side 202 of the three-way heat exchanger 200, where the liquid desiccant inlet 236 is located. As the liquid desiccant 344 enters the panel assembly 300 along the lateral extent of the liquid desiccant inlet manifold 242, the pressure of the liquid desiccant 344 in the inlet manifold 242 decreases, and the flow rate of the liquid desiccant 344 in the panel assembly 300 near the second lateral side 204 of the heat exchanger 200 may decrease relative to the flow rate in the panel assembly 300 near the first lateral side 202. This can result in poor distribution of the heat transfer fluid 350 and the liquid desiccant 344 across the panel assembly 300, which reduces the performance of the heat exchanger 200 and its ability to provide sensible and latent heat cooling to the air flowing through the air gap 216. At lower flow rates (e.g., less than 10 liters per minute), the poor distribution problem experienced in the panel assembly 300 may be exacerbated.

[0078] The advantage provided by the three-way heat exchanger 200 is that connecting the heat transfer fluid inlet 232 and the heat transfer fluid outlet 234 to the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold 246 and the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold 248, respectively, on opposite lateral sides 204 and 202 of the heat exchanger 200, facilitates improved flow distribution of the heat transfer fluid 350 on the panel assembly 300. When the heat transfer fluid outlet 234 is connected to the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold 248 at the first lateral side 202 of the heat exchanger 200, the flow rate of the heat transfer fluid 350 in the outlet manifold 248 is greater at the first lateral side 202 than at the second lateral side 204. This reduces the pressure difference in the heat transfer fluid passage 330 of the panel assembly 300 near the second lateral side 204 between the inlet manifold 246 and the outlet manifold 248, and increases the pressure difference in the heat transfer fluid passage 330 of the panel assembly 300 near the first lateral side 202 between the inlet manifold 246 and the outlet manifold 248. This reduces the tendency for the heat transfer fluid 350 in the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold 246 to primarily flow through the panel assembly 300 near the second lateral side 204 and to guide the heat transfer fluid 350 in the inlet manifold 246 toward the first lateral side 202. Therefore, the flow of the heat transfer fluid 350 is more evenly distributed on the panel assembly 300. Connecting the liquid desiccant inlet 236 and the liquid desiccant outlet 238 to the liquid desiccant inlet manifold 242 and the liquid desiccant outlet manifold 244 on opposite lateral sides 202 and 204 of the heat exchanger 200 can also facilitate improved flow distribution of the liquid desiccant 344 on the panel assembly 300, as described for the heat transfer fluid 350.

[0079] The flow distribution of liquid desiccant 344 on the panel assembly 300 can be additionally and / or alternatively controlled by adjusting the size, shape, and / or number of orifices 360 and 362 included in each plate 326 and 328. As described above, liquid desiccant 344 flows between liquid desiccant manifold region 320 and liquid desiccant channels 336 and 338 via orifices 360 in plates 326 and 328, respectively, and liquid desiccant 344 flows between liquid desiccant channels 336 and 338 and liquid desiccant manifold region 322 via orifices 362 in plates 326 and 328, respectively. The size, shape, and / or number of orifices 360 and / or 362 in plates 326 and 328 of the panel assembly 300 near the first lateral side 202 can be adjusted to restrict the flow of liquid desiccant 344 into the corresponding membrane channels 336 and 338, thereby guiding the liquid desiccant 344 toward the panel assembly 300 near the second lateral side 204. For example, plates 326 and 328 of the panel assembly 300 near the first lateral side 202 may have smaller diameter orifices 360 and / or 362, or fewer orifices 360 and / or 362, compared to plates 326 and 328 of the panel assembly 300 near the second lateral side 204, to guide the liquid desiccant 344 toward the panel assembly 300 near the second lateral side 204.

[0080] Reference Figures 12 to 14 The three-way heat exchanger 200 may include additional and / or alternative features that direct the heat transfer fluid 350 and liquid desiccant 344 in the respective inlet manifolds 246 and 242 toward the first lateral side 202 and the second lateral side 204 of the heat exchanger 200, respectively, to promote uniform flow distribution of the heat transfer fluid 350 and liquid desiccant 344 through the panel assembly 300. Figures 12 to 14 Each illustration is similar to Figure 11 Schematic internal view of a three-way heat exchanger 200. Figures 12 to 14 The features shown that promote uniform flow distribution of the heat transfer fluid 350 and the liquid desiccant 344 can be used alone or in any combination, and are not limited to the illustrated embodiments. In some examples, features that promote uniform flow distribution of the heat transfer fluid 350 only on the panel assembly 300 or features that promote uniform flow distribution of the liquid desiccant 344 only on the panel assembly 300 may be included.

[0081] Figure 12 The following example is depicted: In this example, the heat transfer fluid inlet port 346 of the panel assembly 300 is connected to the orifice 352 of the heat transfer fluid channel 330. Figure 10B (as shown in the diagram) and the orifice 356 connecting the liquid desiccant inlet port 340 of the panel assembly 300 to the first liquid desiccant manifold region 320 (as shown in the diagram) Figure 10C The dimensions of the orifice 352 (shown in the diagram) vary among the panel assemblies 300 to guide the heat transfer fluid 350 in the inlet manifold 246 toward the first lateral side 202 and the liquid desiccant 344 in the inlet manifold 242 toward the second lateral side 204, respectively. In the illustrated example, the diameter of the orifice 352 increases along the lateral extent of the inlet manifold 246 toward the first lateral side 202, and the diameter of the orifice 356 increases along the lateral extent of the inlet manifold 242 toward the second lateral side 204. The smaller diameter orifice 352 near the second lateral side 204 restricts the flow of the heat transfer fluid 350 from the inlet manifold 246 into the corresponding heat transfer fluid channel 330, thereby guiding the heat transfer fluid 350 toward the panel assembly 300 near the first lateral side 202. A smaller diameter orifice 356 near the first lateral side 202 restricts the flow of liquid desiccant 344 from the inlet manifold 242 into a corresponding first liquid desiccant manifold region 320, thereby directing the liquid desiccant 344 toward the panel assembly 300 near the second lateral side 204. The dimensions of the orifices 352 and 356, other than their diameters, can vary between panel assemblies 300 to direct heat transfer fluid 350 in the inlet manifold 246 toward the first lateral side 202 and liquid desiccant 344 in the inlet manifold 242 toward the second lateral side 204, respectively. For example, the number, size, and / or shape of the orifices 352 and 356 can vary between panel assemblies 300. In some examples, the orifice 352 near the second lateral side 204 and / or the orifice 356 near the first lateral side 202 may be flared to restrict fluid flow through them, and the orifice 352 near the first lateral side 202 and / or the orifice 356 near the second lateral side 204 may be substantially cylindrical or have a wider opening shape to allow a relatively larger amount of fluid flow through them. In some examples, the panel assembly 300 near the first lateral side 202 may include a greater number of orifices 352 than the panel assembly 300 near the second lateral side 204, and / or the panel assembly 300 near the second lateral side 204 may include a greater number of orifices 356 than the panel assembly 300 near the first lateral side 202.

[0082] In some examples, only the size (e.g., number, size, and / or shape) of the aperture 352 may vary between panel assemblies 300, and the size of the aperture 356 is substantially the same between panel assemblies. In other examples, only the size (e.g., number, size, and / or shape) of the aperture 356 may vary between panel assemblies 300, and the size of the aperture 352 is substantially the same between panel assemblies.

[0083] Figure 13An example is depicted in which an insert 364 is provided within a heat transfer fluid inlet manifold 246 to guide heat transfer fluid 350 in the inlet manifold 246 toward a first lateral side 202, and an insert 366 is provided within a liquid desiccant inlet manifold 242 to guide liquid desiccant 344 in the inlet manifold 242 toward a second lateral side 204. Each of the inserts 364 and 366 reduces the cross-sectional area of ​​the respective inlet manifolds 246 and 242 to guide the heat transfer fluid 350 and liquid desiccant 344, respectively. The insert 364 reduces the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet manifold 246 toward the first lateral side 202 to maintain the pressure and flow rate of the heat transfer fluid 350 in the inlet manifold 246 as it partially exits and enters the panel assembly 300 near the second lateral side 204. Insert 366 reduces the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet manifold 242 toward the second lateral side 204 to maintain the pressure and flow rate of the liquid desiccant 344 in the inlet manifold 242 as it partially leaves and enters the panel assembly 300 near the first lateral side 202.

[0084] Inserts 364 and 366 may have any suitable shape that enables them to function as described. For example, the inserts may be stepped or tapered to reduce the cross-sectional area in the respective inlet manifolds 246 and 242. For example, inserts 364 and 366 may have a stepped or tapered profile, a stepped or truncated (e.g., truncated cone) profile, a stepped or tapered hemispherical profile, or another suitable profile. In some examples, only one of inserts 364 and 366 may be included in its respective inlet manifold.

[0085] Inserts 364 and 366 may be integrally formed with end caps 274 and 270, respectively, and are inserted into the corresponding inlet manifolds 246 and 242 when end caps 274 and 270 are installed. Alternatively, inserts 364 and 366 may be inserted into and secured within the corresponding inlet manifolds 246 and 242 using any suitable means. Inserts may be additionally and / or alternatively included in outlet manifolds 244 and 248. For example, an insert may be included in heat transfer fluid outlet manifold 248 to reduce the pressure and flow rate of heat transfer fluid 350 toward the first lateral side 202 (and / or increase the pressure of heat transfer fluid 350 toward the second lateral side 204). An insert may be included in liquid desiccant outlet manifold 244 to reduce the pressure and flow rate of liquid desiccant 344 toward the second lateral side 204 (and / or increase the pressure of liquid desiccant 344 toward the first lateral side 202). The inserts included in outlet manifolds 244 and 248 can reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet manifolds facing the second lateral side 204 and the first lateral side 202, respectively. The inserts included in outlet manifolds 244 and 248 can be integrally formed with end caps 272 and 276, respectively, and inserted into the respective outlet manifolds when end caps 272 and 276 are installed, or can be inserted and secured in the respective outlet manifolds using any suitable means.

[0086] Figure 14 Another example is depicted in which an insert 368 is provided within a heat transfer fluid inlet manifold 246 to guide heat transfer fluid 350 in the inlet manifold 246 toward a first lateral side 202, and an insert 378 is provided within a liquid desiccant inlet manifold 242 to guide liquid desiccant 344 in the inlet manifold 242 toward a second lateral side 204. Inserts 368 and 378 are each deflectors or shields located in their respective manifolds 246 and 242 near the second lateral side 204 and the first lateral side 202, respectively. Insert 368 deflects or otherwise restricts the flow of heat transfer fluid 350 in manifold 246 into panel assembly 300 near the second lateral side 204, thereby driving heat transfer fluid 350 toward the first lateral side 202. Insert 378 deflects or otherwise restricts the flow of liquid desiccant 344 in manifold 242 into panel assembly 300 near first lateral side 202, thereby driving liquid desiccant 344 toward second lateral side 204. In some examples, only one of inserts 368 and 378 may be included in its respective inlet manifold.

[0087] The described example HVAC system includes one or more air handling subsystems for removing heat and moisture from an airflow and / or discharging heat and moisture into the airflow. An example air handling subsystem includes a three-way heat exchanger comprising panel assemblies arranged sequentially and defining air gaps for airflow therebetween. A heat transfer fluid and a liquid desiccant are directed through each panel assembly to treat the airflow through the air gaps. The operating efficiency of the three-way heat exchanger is improved by configurations and / or features that promote a more uniform distribution of the heat transfer fluid and / or liquid desiccant on the panel assemblies of the heat exchanger. For example, the fluid inlet and fluid outlet for the heat transfer fluid and / or liquid desiccant are located on opposite lateral sides of the heat exchanger to maintain a uniform pressure differential of the fluid flowing through the panel assemblies. Additionally and / or alternatively, the heat transfer fluid and / or liquid desiccant may be driven toward downstream panel assemblies using various components and features described herein.

[0088] The above describes in detail exemplary implementations of methods for HVAC systems and operating systems. The systems and methods are not limited to the specific implementations described herein; rather, components of the systems and methods can be used independently and separately from other components described herein. For example, the systems described herein can be used in systems other than HVAC systems.

[0089] When elements or embodiments of this disclosure are introduced, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “described” are intended to indicate the presence of one or more elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements may be present in addition to the listed elements. The use of terms indicating a particular orientation (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “vertical,” “lateral,” “longitudinal,” etc.) is for ease of description and does not require any particular orientation of the described items.

[0090] Since various changes can be made to the above-described constructions and methods without departing from the scope of this disclosure, it is intended that all content contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

1. A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system comprising: a refrigerant subsystem; and at least one air handling subsystem including a three-pass heat exchanger for transferring heat between a heat transfer fluid, a liquid desiccant, and air, the HVAC system operable to circulate the heat transfer fluid between the three-pass heat exchanger and the refrigerant subsystem; wherein the three-pass heat exchanger defines a lateral direction, a longitudinal direction, and a vertical direction that are mutually perpendicular, the three-pass heat exchanger including: a plurality of panel assemblies arranged in series in the lateral direction, air flow gaps defined between adjacent panel assemblies to allow air to flow through the three-pass heat exchanger, each panel assembly including a frame defining a heat transfer fluid passage and at least one vapor permeable membrane disposed on a lateral face of the frame, at least one desiccant passage defined between the at least one membrane and the frame, the at least one desiccant passage being separate from the heat transfer fluid passage; a heat transfer fluid inlet manifold and a heat transfer fluid outlet manifold connected to the heat transfer fluid passage of each panel assembly, the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold and the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold each extending between first and second lateral sides of the three-pass heat exchanger, the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold being closed at the first lateral side and the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold being closed at the second lateral side; and a heat transfer fluid inlet connected to the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold at the second lateral side and a heat transfer fluid outlet connected to the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold at the first lateral side.

2. The HVAC system of claim 1, wherein, the three-pass heat exchanger has first and second longitudinal sides and first and second vertical sides, and wherein the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold extends laterally proximate the second longitudinal side and the second vertical side, and the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold extends laterally proximate the first longitudinal side and the first vertical side.

3. The HVAC system of claim 2, wherein, the first longitudinal side of the three-pass heat exchanger defines an air flow inlet and the second longitudinal side of the three-pass heat exchanger defines an air flow outlet, and wherein the air flow gaps defined between adjacent panel assemblies communicate with the air flow inlet and the air flow outlet to allow air to flow through the three-pass heat exchanger in the longitudinal direction.

4. The HVAC system of claim 3, wherein, the heat transfer fluid inlet and the heat transfer fluid outlet are located at the second longitudinal side of the three-pass heat exchanger, the heat transfer fluid inlet being connected to the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold by a first longitudinally extending conduit, and the heat transfer fluid outlet being connected to the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold by a second longitudinally extending conduit.

5. The HVAC system of claim 1, wherein, the three-pass heat exchanger further includes: a liquid desiccant inlet manifold and a liquid desiccant outlet manifold connected to the at least one desiccant channel of each panel assembly, each extending between the first and second lateral sides of the tee heat exchanger, the liquid desiccant inlet manifold being closed at the second lateral side and the liquid desiccant outlet manifold being closed at the first lateral side; and a liquid desiccant inlet connected to the liquid desiccant inlet manifold at the first lateral side and a liquid desiccant outlet connected to the liquid desiccant outlet manifold at the second lateral side.

6. The HVAC system of claim 5, wherein, The tee heat exchanger has first and second longitudinal sides and first and second vertical sides, wherein the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold extends laterally proximate the second longitudinal side and the second vertical side, the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold extends laterally proximate the first longitudinal side and the first vertical side, the liquid desiccant inlet manifold extends laterally proximate the second longitudinal side and the first vertical side, and the liquid desiccant outlet manifold extends laterally proximate the first longitudinal side and the second vertical side.

7. The HVAC system of claim 1, wherein, The tee heat exchanger includes an insert disposed within the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold, the insert configured to direct flow of the heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold toward the first lateral side.

8. The HVAC system of claim 7, wherein, The insert reduces a cross-sectional area of the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold toward the first lateral side to direct flow of the heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold toward the first lateral side.

9. The HVAC system of claim 1, wherein, For each panel assembly, the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold is connected to the heat transfer fluid channel through at least one heat transfer fluid inlet orifice, and wherein the heat transfer fluid inlet orifice of the panel assembly has a different size to direct flow of the heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold toward the first lateral side.

10. A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system comprising: a refrigerant subsystem; a conditioner subsystem including a first tee heat exchanger for transferring heat between a conditioner heat transfer fluid, a liquid desiccant, and a first air stream, the HVAC system operable to circulate the conditioner heat transfer fluid between the first tee heat exchanger and the refrigerant subsystem; and a regenerator subsystem including a second tee heat exchanger for transferring heat between a regenerator heat transfer fluid, a liquid desiccant, and a second air stream, the HVAC system operable to circulate the regenerator heat transfer fluid between the second tee heat exchanger and the refrigerant subsystem; wherein the first and second three-way heat exchangers each define mutually perpendicular lateral, longitudinal, and vertical directions, each three-way heat exchanger comprising: a panel assembly continuously arranged in the lateral direction, defining an airflow gap between adjacent panel assemblies to allow a respective airflow to flow through the three-way heat exchanger, each panel assembly comprising: a frame defining a heat transfer fluid passage; and at least one vapor-permeable membrane disposed on a lateral face of the frame, defining at least one desiccant passage between the at least one membrane and the frame, the at least one desiccant passage being separate from the heat transfer fluid passage; a heat transfer fluid inlet manifold and a heat transfer fluid outlet manifold connected to the heat transfer fluid passage of each panel assembly, the heat transfer fluid inlet and outlet manifolds each extending between first and second lateral sides of the three-way heat exchanger, the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold being closed at the first lateral side and the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold being closed at the second lateral side; and a heat transfer fluid inlet connected to the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold at the second lateral side and a heat transfer fluid outlet connected to the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold at the first lateral side.

11. The HVAC system of claim 10, wherein, For each three-way heat exchanger: the three-way heat exchanger has first and second longitudinal sides and first and second vertical sides; the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold extends laterally proximate the second longitudinal side and the second vertical side, and the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold extends laterally proximate the first longitudinal side and the first vertical side; the first longitudinal side of the three-way heat exchanger defines an airflow inlet and the second longitudinal side of the three-way heat exchanger defines an airflow outlet, and wherein the airflow gap defined between adjacent panel assemblies communicates with the airflow inlet and the airflow outlet to allow a respective airflow to flow through the three-way heat exchanger in the longitudinal direction; and the heat transfer fluid inlet and the heat transfer fluid outlet are at the second longitudinal side of the three-way heat exchanger, the heat transfer fluid inlet being connected to the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold by a first longitudinally extending conduit, and the heat transfer fluid outlet being connected to the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold by a second longitudinally extending conduit.

12. The HVAC system of claim 10, wherein, Each three-way heat exchanger further comprises: a liquid desiccant inlet manifold and a liquid desiccant outlet manifold connected to the at least one desiccant channel of each panel assembly, the liquid desiccant inlet manifold and the liquid desiccant outlet manifold each extending between the first lateral side and the second lateral side of the tee heat exchanger, the liquid desiccant inlet manifold being closed at the second lateral side, and the liquid desiccant outlet manifold being closed at the first lateral side; and a liquid desiccant inlet connected to the liquid desiccant inlet manifold at the first lateral side, and a liquid desiccant outlet connected to the liquid desiccant outlet manifold at the second lateral side.

13. The HVAC system of claim 10, wherein, Each tee heat exchanger includes an insert disposed within the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold, the insert configured to direct the flow of respective heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold toward the first lateral side.

14. The HVAC system of claim 10, wherein, For each panel assembly of each tee heat exchanger, the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold is connected to the heat transfer fluid channel through at least one heat transfer fluid inlet aperture, and wherein the heat transfer fluid inlet apertures of the panel assembly have different sizes to direct the flow of respective heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold toward the first lateral side.

15. A tee heat exchanger for use in an air handling subsystem of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, the tee heat exchanger operable to transfer heat between a heat transfer fluid, a liquid desiccant, and air, the tee heat exchanger defining mutually perpendicular lateral, longitudinal, and vertical directions, the tee heat exchanger comprising: panel assemblies arranged in series in the lateral direction, defining an air flow gap between adjacent panel assemblies to allow air to flow through the tee heat exchanger, each panel assembly including a frame defining a heat transfer fluid channel, and at least one vapor permeable membrane disposed on a lateral face of the frame, defining at least one desiccant channel between the at least one membrane and the frame, the at least one desiccant channel being separate from the heat transfer fluid channel; a heat transfer fluid inlet manifold and a heat transfer fluid outlet manifold connected to the heat transfer fluid channel of each panel assembly, the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold and the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold each extending between a first lateral side and a second lateral side of the tee heat exchanger, the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold being closed at the first lateral side, and the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold being closed at the second lateral side; and a liquid desiccant inlet connected to the liquid desiccant inlet manifold at the first lateral side, and a liquid desiccant outlet connected to the liquid desiccant outlet manifold at the second lateral side. a heat transfer fluid inlet connected to the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold at the first lateral side and a heat transfer fluid outlet connected to the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold at the second lateral side.

16. The tee heat exchanger of claim 15, wherein, the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold extends laterally proximate a second longitudinal side of the tee heat exchanger and a second vertical side of the tee heat exchanger, and the heat transfer fluid outlet manifold extends laterally proximate a first longitudinal side of the tee heat exchanger and a first vertical side of the tee heat exchanger.

17. The tee heat exchanger of claim 16, further comprising: a liquid desiccant inlet manifold and a liquid desiccant outlet manifold connected to the at least one desiccant channel of each panel assembly, the liquid desiccant inlet manifold and the liquid desiccant outlet manifold each extending between the first lateral side and the second lateral side of the tee heat exchanger, the liquid desiccant inlet manifold being closed at the second lateral side and the liquid desiccant outlet manifold being closed at the first lateral side; and a liquid desiccant inlet connected to the liquid desiccant inlet manifold at the first lateral side and a liquid desiccant outlet connected to the liquid desiccant outlet manifold at the second lateral side.

18. The tee heat exchanger of claim 17, wherein, the liquid desiccant inlet manifold extends laterally proximate the second longitudinal side and the first vertical side, and the liquid desiccant outlet manifold extends laterally proximate the first longitudinal side and the second vertical side.

19. The tee heat exchanger of claim 15, further comprising an insert disposed within the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold, the insert configured to direct flow of the heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold toward the first lateral side.

20. The tee heat exchanger of claim 15, wherein, for each panel assembly, the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold is connected to the heat transfer fluid channel through at least one heat transfer fluid inlet aperture, and wherein the heat transfer fluid inlet aperture of the panel assembly has a different size to direct flow of the heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer fluid inlet manifold toward the first lateral side.

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