Heat exchanger and air conditioner

Abstract

This invention discloses a heat exchanger and an air conditioner. The heat exchanger includes: a heat exchange unit comprising multiple heat exchange plates spaced apart in a first direction, each heat exchange plate having a heat exchange channel; and a collector, with a collector provided at least at one end along the length of the heat exchange unit. The collector passes through the multiple heat exchange plates along the first direction and has a collecting channel and multiple collecting holes communicating with the collecting channel. The multiple collecting holes are arranged along the first direction and are respectively communicating with the multiple heat exchange channels. According to the heat exchanger of this invention, the collector is integrated onto the heat exchange unit, thereby effectively reducing the external dimensions and internal volume of the collector, thus reducing the amount of refrigerant required and effectively lowering costs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and in particular to a heat exchanger and an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] The manifold is a crucial component of the heat exchanger, used to collect and distribute refrigerant. However, in existing technologies, the large volume of the manifold results in a large refrigerant charge, leading to excessive costs and wasted resources. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this invention proposes a heat exchanger in which the manifold is integrated on the heat exchange unit, thereby effectively reducing the external size and internal volume of the manifold, and thus reducing the amount of refrigerant charged, effectively reducing costs.

[0004] The present invention also proposes an air conditioner, which includes the heat exchanger described above.

[0005] A heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a heat exchange unit, the heat exchange unit including a plurality of heat exchange plates spaced apart in a first direction, the heat exchange plates having heat exchange channels; and a flow collector, the flow collector being provided at least one end of the heat exchange unit along the length direction, the flow collector passing through the plurality of heat exchange plates along the first direction, the flow collector having a flow collection channel and a plurality of flow collection holes communicating with the flow collection channel, the plurality of flow collection holes being arranged along the first direction and respectively communicating with the plurality of heat exchange channels.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the heat exchanger unit includes a plurality of heat exchange plates spaced apart in a first direction. Each heat exchange plate has a heat exchange channel. At least one end of the heat exchanger unit along its length is provided with a collector. The collector passes through the plurality of heat exchange plates along the first direction. The collector has a collection channel and a plurality of collection holes communicating with the collection channel. The plurality of collection holes are arranged along the first direction and communicate with the plurality of heat exchange channels respectively, so that the collector is integrated on the heat exchanger unit, thereby effectively reducing the external size and internal volume of the collector, thereby reducing the amount of refrigerant charged and effectively reducing costs. At the same time, by reducing the overall size and volume of the heat exchanger, the heat exchanger can be more flexibly adapted to different application scenarios and meet various space constraints and performance requirements.

[0007] In some embodiments of the present invention, a first collecting cavity is formed between each heat exchange plate and the collecting element, and the first collecting cavity is connected to the corresponding collecting hole and the heat exchange channel respectively.

[0008] In some embodiments of the present invention, the heat exchange plate has a first assembly hole, the flow collector passes through the first assembly hole, the inner wall of the first assembly hole has a first diversion hole communicating with the heat exchange channel, the outer peripheral wall of the flow collector has a first partition and a second partition spaced apart corresponding to each position of the heat exchange plate, the first partition and the second partition both extend in annular shape along the outer peripheral wall of the flow collector, the first partition and the second partition are respectively connected to the inner wall of the corresponding first assembly hole to form a first flow collecting cavity, the first flow collecting cavity is communicating with the corresponding first diversion hole, and the corresponding flow collecting hole is disposed between the first partition and the second partition.

[0009] In some embodiments of the present invention, the heat exchange channel includes a plurality of sub-heat exchange channels arranged along the width direction of the heat exchange plate, the sub-heat exchange channels extend along the length direction of the heat exchange plate, the first diversion hole includes a plurality of first sub-holes spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the first assembly hole, and the sub-heat exchange channel communicates with at least one of the first sub-holes.

[0010] In some embodiments of the present invention, the flow collector includes: an inner tube having the flow collecting channel and a plurality of second flow diversion holes communicating with the flow collecting channel, the plurality of second flow diversion holes being arranged along the first direction; and an outer tube sleeved outside the inner tube and having a plurality of the flow collecting holes, a plurality of second flow collecting cavities being formed between the outer tube and the inner tube and arranged along the first direction, the second flow collecting cavities being respectively connected to at least one of the second flow diversion holes and at least one of the flow collecting holes.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present invention, the outer peripheral wall of the inner tube has a plurality of first partition groups arranged at intervals, the plurality of first partition groups are arranged along the first direction, each first partition group includes a third partition and a fourth partition arranged at intervals along the first direction, the third partition and the fourth partition both extend annularly along the outer peripheral wall of the inner tube, and the third partition and the fourth partition are respectively connected to the inner wall of the outer tube to form the second flow collection cavity.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one of the extending directions of the third partition and the fourth partition has a first angle with the first direction, wherein the first angle is an acute angle or an obtuse angle.

[0013] In some embodiments of the present invention, the heat exchange unit is provided with the flow collector at both ends along its length.

[0014] In some embodiments of the present invention, the heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange module and a second heat exchange module. Both the first heat exchange module and the second heat exchange module include the heat exchange unit and the collector. The collector is provided at one end of the heat exchange unit along its length. The heat exchanger further includes a manifold that connects the end of the first heat exchange module away from the collector and the end of the second heat exchange module away from the collector. The other end of the first heat exchange module extends in a direction away from the second heat exchange module.

[0015] In some embodiments of the present invention, the heat exchange plate of the first heat exchange module is defined as a first plate, and the heat exchange plate of the second heat exchange module is defined as a second plate. Along the first direction, the first plate and the second plate are alternately arranged along the manifold.

[0016] In some embodiments of the present invention, the heat exchange plate has a plurality of sub-channels, the sub-channel of the first plate and the sub-channel of an adjacent second plate form the heat exchange channel, and the manifold has a plurality of manifold cavities corresponding one-to-one with the plurality of heat exchange channels, and the plurality of manifold cavities are arranged along the first direction.

[0017] In some embodiments of the present invention, the manifold has a cavity extending along the length direction of the manifold, and the cavity has a plurality of second partition groups spaced apart. The plurality of second partition groups are arranged along the first direction, and each second partition group includes a fifth partition and a sixth partition spaced apart along the first direction. The fifth partition and the sixth partition both extend in a ring shape along the circumferential direction of the manifold, and the manifold cavity is formed between the fifth partition and the sixth partition.

[0018] In some embodiments of the present invention, at least one of the extending directions of the fifth partition and the sixth partition has a second included angle with the first direction, the second included angle being an acute angle or an obtuse angle.

[0019] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first plate, an adjacent second plate, and the manifold form a third collection cavity, the third collection cavity being connected to the corresponding manifold, the sub-channel of the first plate, and the sub-channel of the second plate, respectively.

[0020] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first plate has a second assembly hole, the second assembly hole has a third diversion hole communicating with the sub-channel of the first plate, the second plate has a third assembly hole, the third assembly hole has a fourth diversion hole communicating with the sub-channel of the second plate, the manifold is disposed in the second assembly hole and the third assembly hole, and the outer peripheral wall of the manifold has a seventh partition and an eighth partition spaced apart corresponding to the position of each heat exchange plate, the seventh partition and the eighth partition both extend in annular shape along the outer peripheral wall of the manifold, the seventh partition is connected to the inner wall of the corresponding second assembly hole, the eighth partition is connected to the inner wall of the corresponding third assembly hole, and the seventh partition, the eighth partition, and the corresponding first plate and second plate form the third collection cavity.

[0021] In some embodiments of the present invention, the second mounting hole has a first overlapping portion, and the third mounting hole has a first extension portion extending toward the seventh partition plate, the first extension portion having a second overlapping portion that mates with the first overlapping portion.

[0022] In some embodiments of the present invention, the second assembly hole has a second extension extending toward the seventh partition plate. The second extension is located on the side of the third diversion hole away from the first overlap. The second extension has a third overlap. The third assembly hole has a fourth overlap. The fourth overlap is located on the side of the fourth diversion hole away from the second overlap. Along the first direction, the third overlap of the first plate of any two adjacent heat exchange plates is spliced ​​and connected to the fourth overlap of the second plate of the other heat exchange plate.

[0023] In some embodiments of the present invention, the sub-channel of the first plate includes a plurality of first microchannels arranged along the width direction of the first plate, the first microchannels extending along the length direction of the first plate, the third diversion hole includes a plurality of second sub-holes spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the second assembly hole, and the first microchannel communicates with at least one of the second sub-holes; and / or, the sub-channel of the second plate includes a plurality of second microchannels arranged along the width direction of the second plate, the second microchannels extending along the length direction of the second plate, the fourth diversion hole includes a plurality of third sub-holes spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the second assembly hole, and the second microchannel communicates with at least one of the third sub-holes.

[0024] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first heat exchange module and the second heat exchange module have a third included angle, which is an acute angle, a right angle or an obtuse angle.

[0025] An air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes the heat exchanger described above.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an air conditioner is provided with a heat exchanger. The heat exchange unit includes a plurality of heat exchange plates spaced apart in a first direction. Each heat exchange plate has a heat exchange channel. At least one end of the heat exchange unit in the length direction is provided with a collector. The collector passes through the plurality of heat exchange plates along the first direction. The collector has a collection channel and a plurality of collection holes communicating with the collection channel. The plurality of collection holes are arranged along the first direction and are respectively communicating with the plurality of heat exchange channels, so that the collector is integrated on the heat exchange unit, thereby effectively reducing the external size and internal volume of the collector, thereby reducing the amount of refrigerant charged and effectively reducing the cost of the air conditioner. At the same time, by reducing the overall size and volume of the heat exchanger, the heat exchanger can be more flexibly adapted to different usage scenarios, meeting various space constraints and performance requirements, thereby achieving compatibility with different models of air conditioners.

[0027] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0029] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 2 This is a top view of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 Sectional view of line AA in the middle;

[0032] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view at point B in the middle;

[0033] Figure 5 This is a structural diagram of the current collector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the current collector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Enlarged view at point C;

[0036] Figure 8 This is a structural diagram of the inner tube according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Enlarged view at point D;

[0038] Figure 10 This is a structural diagram of the outer tube according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Enlarged view at point E in the middle;

[0040] Figure 12 This is a structural diagram of the manifold, a portion of the first heat exchange module, and a portion of the second heat exchange module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 Enlarged view at point F;

[0042] Figure 14 yes Figure 12 A sectional view;

[0043] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 Enlarged view at point G;

[0044] Figure 16 yes Figure 12 A cross-sectional view from another perspective;

[0045] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 Enlarged view at point H;

[0046] Figure 18 This is a structural diagram of a manifold according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 Enlarged view at point I;

[0048] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view of a manifold according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 Enlarged view of point J in the middle;

[0050] Figure 22 This is a structural diagram of the first plate according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 23 yes Figure 22 Enlarged view at point K;

[0052] Figure 24 This is a structural diagram of the second plate according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 25 yes Figure 24 Enlarged view at point L;

[0054] Figure 26 This is a structural diagram of a heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heat exchange system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure label:

[0057] 100. Heat exchanger;

[0058] 101. First heat exchange module;

[0059] 102. Second heat exchange module;

[0060] 103. Third heat exchange module;

[0061] 1. Heat exchange unit; 11. Heat exchange plate; 111. Heat exchange channel; 112. First assembly hole; 1121. First diversion hole; 1122. First sub-hole; 12. First plate; 121. Second assembly hole; 1211. Third diversion hole; 1212. Second sub-hole; 1213. First overlap; 1214. Second extension; 1215. Third overlap; 122. Sub-channel; 1221. First micro-channel; 123. First tube body; 124. First fin; 13. Second plate; 131. Third assembly hole; 1311. Fourth diversion hole; 1312. Third sub-hole; 1313. First extension; 1314. Second overlap; 1315. Fourth overlap; 133. Second tube body; 134. Second fin;

[0062] 2. Flow collector; 21. Inner tube; 211. Flow collection channel; 212. Second diversion hole; 213. Inlet and outlet; 214. First baffle group; 2141. Third baffle; 2142. Fourth baffle; 22. Outer tube; 221. Flow collection hole; 222. First baffle; 223. Second baffle; 23. Second flow collection cavity;

[0063] 3. First flow chamber;

[0064] 4. Manifold; 41. Manifold cavity; 42. Cavity; 43. Second partition group; 431. Fifth partition; 432. Sixth partition; 44. Seventh partition; 45. Eighth partition; 46. First manifold hole; 47. Second manifold hole;

[0065] 5. Third flow chamber;

[0066] 200. Refrigeration system;

[0067] 210. Compressor; 2011. Discharge port; 2012. Return port; 220. Reversing assembly; 2021. First port; 2022. Second port; 2023. Third port; 2024. Fourth port; 230. Expansion valve; 231. Liquid inlet; 232. Liquid outlet; 240. Indoor heat exchanger; 250. Gas-liquid separator; 260. Oil separator. Detailed Implementation

[0068] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0069] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. Furthermore, features defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0070] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0071] A heat exchanger 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0072] like Figures 1-5 As shown, the heat exchanger 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a heat exchange unit 1 and a flow collector 2.

[0073] The heat exchange unit 1 includes multiple heat exchange plates 11 spaced apart in a first direction, each heat exchange plate 11 having a heat exchange channel 111. Heat exchange occurs through the refrigerant flowing within the heat exchange channel of each heat exchange plate 11, achieving the heat exchange effect of the heat exchange plate 11. Furthermore, by assembling multiple heat exchange plates 11 spaced apart along the first direction, the heat exchange unit 1 ensures that each heat exchange plate 11 can independently and effectively exchange heat, while the synergistic effect of the multiple heat exchange plates 11 effectively improves the overall heat exchange performance of the heat exchange unit 1.

[0074] At least one end of the heat exchange unit 1 along its length is provided with a collector 2. The collector 2 passes through multiple heat exchange plates 11 along a first direction. The collector 2 has a collecting channel 211 and multiple collecting holes 221 communicating with the collecting channel 211. The multiple collecting holes 221 are arranged along the first direction and are respectively connected to multiple heat exchange channels 111. Thus, this arrangement allows the refrigerant in the collecting channel 211 to flow into the multiple heat exchange channels 111 through the multiple collecting holes 221, or the refrigerant in the heat exchange channel 111 of each heat exchange plate 11 can flow into the collecting channel 211 through the multiple collecting holes 221, thereby ensuring the heat exchange effect of the heat exchange plates 11 and the heat exchange unit 1.

[0075] Compared to existing technologies where the manifold 2 is a separate component, this application integrates the manifold 2 onto multiple heat exchange plates 11 along a first direction, thereby effectively reducing the external dimensions and internal volume of the manifold 2. This reduction in internal volume reduces the amount of refrigerant required, thus lowering costs and saving resources. Furthermore, less refrigerant means the heat exchange system can reach the required temperature more quickly and reduces energy loss during refrigerant circulation, improving the energy efficiency of the heat exchanger 100 and the air conditioner using it. Additionally, the reduced external dimensions of the manifold 2 reduce the overall size and volume of the heat exchanger 100, allowing it to more flexibly adapt to different application scenarios and meet various space constraints and performance requirements.

[0076] Furthermore, the manifold 2 also has an inlet and outlet 213, which are connected to the manifold channel 211. The refrigerant can flow into the manifold channel 211 through the inlet and outlet 213, or the refrigerant in the manifold channel 211 can also flow out through the inlet and outlet 213.

[0077] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the heat exchanger 100 includes a heat exchange unit 1 comprising a plurality of heat exchange plates 11 spaced apart in a first direction. Each heat exchange plate 11 has a heat exchange channel 111. At least one end of the heat exchange unit 1 along its length is provided with a collector 2. The collector 2 passes through the plurality of heat exchange plates 11 along the first direction. The collector 2 has a collection channel 211 and a plurality of collection holes 221 communicating with the collection channel 211. The plurality of collection holes 221 are arranged along the first direction and communicate with the plurality of heat exchange channels 111 respectively, so that the collector 2 is integrated on the heat exchange unit 1, thereby effectively reducing the external size and internal volume of the collector 2, thereby reducing the amount of refrigerant charged and effectively reducing costs. At the same time, by reducing the overall size and volume of the heat exchanger 100, the heat exchanger 100 can be more flexibly adapted to different usage scenarios and meet various space constraints and performance requirements.

[0078] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1 and Figure 26 As shown, both ends of the heat exchange unit 1 along its length are provided with a collector 2. It can be understood that the refrigerant in the collection channel 211 of one collector 2 flows into multiple heat exchange channels 111 through multiple collection holes 221, and the refrigerant in each heat exchange channel 111 flows into the collection channel 211 along the heat exchange channel 111 through the collection hole 221 of the other collector 2. Thus, the refrigerant flows in and out of the heat exchange channels 111 of the multiple heat exchange plates 11 through the two collectors 2, thereby achieving refrigerant circulation. Simultaneously, by having both collectors 2 pass through the multiple heat exchange plates 11 along the first direction, the amount of refrigerant charged is further reduced, thereby further reducing costs and further reducing the volume of the heat exchanger 100, making the heat exchanger 100 more flexible in adapting to different application scenarios and meeting various space constraints and performance requirements.

[0079] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 1-4 As shown, a first collecting cavity 3 is formed between each heat exchange plate 11 and the manifold 2. The first collecting cavity 3 is connected to the corresponding collecting hole 221 and the heat exchange channel 111. It can be understood that the refrigerant flowing out of the collecting hole 221 flows into the corresponding first collecting cavity 3, and then flows into the corresponding heat exchange channel 111 through the first collecting cavity 3; or, the refrigerant in the heat exchange channel 111 of each heat exchange plate 11 flows into the corresponding first collecting cavity 3, and then flows into the corresponding collecting hole 221 through the first collecting cavity 3 and into the collecting channel 211. Therefore, the arrangement of the first manifold 3 allows the refrigerant to flow smoothly into and out between the manifold 221 and the heat exchange channel 111, effectively optimizing the flow path of the refrigerant, reducing the resistance and pressure loss of the refrigerant inside the heat exchanger 100, thereby improving the flow efficiency of the refrigerant and thus improving the heat exchange effect of the heat exchanger 100.

[0080] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 3-7 As shown, the heat exchange plate 11 has a first assembly hole 112, and the flow collector 2 passes through the first assembly hole 112. The inner wall of the first assembly hole 112 has a first diversion hole 1121 that communicates with the heat exchange channel 111. The outer peripheral wall of the flow collector 2 has a first partition 222 and a second partition 223 that are spaced apart from each heat exchange plate 11. The first partition 222 and the second partition 223 both extend into an annular shape along the outer peripheral wall of the flow collector 2. The first partition 222 and the second partition 223 are respectively connected to the inner wall of the corresponding first assembly hole 112 to form a first flow collecting cavity 3. The first flow collecting cavity 3 communicates with the corresponding first diversion hole 1121. The corresponding flow collecting hole 221 is located between the first partition 222 and the second partition 223.

[0081] Thus, the first baffle 222 and the second baffle 223 are respectively connected to the inner wall of the corresponding first assembly hole 112 to form the first collection cavity 3. The first collection cavity 3 is connected to the corresponding first diversion hole 1121. The corresponding collection hole 221 is located between the first baffle 222 and the second baffle 223 so that the refrigerant flowing out from the collection hole 221 flows into the corresponding first collection cavity 3, and then flows into the heat exchange channel 111 through the first collection cavity 3 and the corresponding first diversion hole 1121; or, the refrigerant in the heat exchange channel 111 of each heat exchange plate 11 flows into the corresponding first collection cavity 3 through the first diversion hole 1121, and then flows into the corresponding collection hole 221 through the first collection cavity 3 and into the collection channel 211.

[0082] Simultaneously, the annular first partition 222 and the annular second partition 223 are respectively connected to the inner wall of the corresponding first assembly hole 112, thereby connecting the flow collector 2 to the multiple heat exchange plates 11. This effectively ensures the sealing of the first flow collector cavity 3 while achieving a reliable connection between the flow collector 2 and the heat exchange unit 1, improving the overall reliability of the heat exchanger 100. Optionally, the heat exchange plates 11 and the flow collector 2 are integrally brazed in a furnace. This ensures a reliable connection between the heat exchange plates 11 and the flow collector 2 while eliminating the need for processes such as tube expansion, tube flattening, and fin assembly, effectively improving production efficiency.

[0083] In addition, the heat exchange plate 11 has a first mounting hole 112 so that the collector 2 can be inserted into the first mounting hole 112 of the multiple heat exchange plates 11 along the first direction, thereby realizing the integration of the collector 2 into the heat exchange unit 1.

[0084] It should be noted that the number of first assembly holes 112 corresponds to the number of collectors 2. For example, when collectors 2 are provided at both ends of the length direction of the heat exchange unit 1, the heat exchange plate 11 has first assembly holes 112 at both ends of the length direction of the heat exchange unit 1, and the two collectors 2 are respectively inserted into the two first assembly holes 112.

[0085] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 4 As shown, the heat exchange channel 111 includes a plurality of sub-heat exchange channels arranged along the width direction of the heat exchange plate 11. The sub-heat exchange channels extend along the length direction of the heat exchange plate 11. The first diversion hole 1121 includes a plurality of first sub-holes 1122 spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the first assembly hole 112. The sub-heat exchange channel communicates with at least one of the first sub-holes 1122.

[0086] It is understandable that the refrigerant flowing out of the manifold 221 flows into the corresponding first manifold 3, then flows through the first manifold 3 to the multiple first sub-holes 1122 of the corresponding first branch manifold 1121, and then flows into the multiple sub-heat exchange channels through the multiple first sub-holes 1122; or, the refrigerant in the multiple sub-heat exchange channels of each heat exchange plate 11 flows into the corresponding first manifold 3 through the multiple first sub-holes 1122, then flows through the first manifold 3 into the corresponding manifold 221 and into the manifold channel 211.

[0087] Therefore, the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchange plate 11 can be effectively improved by using multiple sub-heat exchange channels. Simultaneously, the first diversion hole 1121 includes multiple first sub-holes 1122 spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the first assembly hole 112. Each sub-heat exchange channel communicates with at least one first sub-hole 1122, allowing the refrigerant in the first manifold 3 to be distributed more evenly into the multiple sub-heat exchange channels, thus improving the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchange plate 11. Furthermore, the arrangement of the first manifold 3 effectively reduces the flow resistance of the refrigerant between the first manifold 3 and the multiple sub-heat exchange channels, improving the flow efficiency of the refrigerant.

[0088] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 4-11 As shown, the flow collector 2 includes an inner tube 21 and an outer tube 22. The inner tube 21 has a flow collecting channel 211 and a plurality of second flow diversion holes 212 communicating with the flow collecting channel 211. The plurality of second flow diversion holes 212 are arranged along a first direction. The outer tube 22 is sleeved outside the inner tube 21 and has a plurality of flow collecting holes 221. A plurality of second flow collecting cavities 23 arranged along the first direction are formed between the outer tube 22 and the inner tube 21. The second flow collecting cavities 23 are respectively connected to at least one second flow diversion hole 212 and at least one flow collecting hole 221.

[0089] It is understandable that the refrigerant in the collection channel 211 flows to the multiple second collection cavities 23 through the multiple second diversion holes 212, and the refrigerant in the multiple second collection cavities 23 flows to the multiple heat exchange channels 111 through the multiple collection holes 221. Alternatively, the refrigerant in the heat exchange channel 111 of each heat exchange plate 11 can flow into the multiple second collection cavities 23 through the multiple collection holes 221, and the refrigerant in the multiple second collection cavities 23 flows to the collection channel 211 through the multiple second diversion holes 212.

[0090] Therefore, the arrangement of the second manifold 23 allows the refrigerant to flow smoothly into and out between the manifold 221 and the second branching 212, so that the refrigerant can flow smoothly into and out between the manifold channel 211 and the heat exchange channel 111. This effectively optimizes the flow path of the refrigerant, reduces the resistance and pressure loss of the refrigerant inside the heat exchanger 100, thereby improving the flow efficiency of the refrigerant and thus improving the heat exchange effect of the heat exchanger 100.

[0091] Furthermore, such as Figure 8 As shown, the inner tube 21 also has an inlet and outlet 213, which are connected to the collection channel 211. The refrigerant can flow into the collection channel 211 through the inlet and outlet 213, or the refrigerant in the collection channel 211 can also flow out through the inlet and outlet 213.

[0092] In some embodiments, such as Figures 4-11 As shown, the outer peripheral wall of the outer tube 22 has a first partition 222 and a second partition 223 spaced apart at the position corresponding to each heat exchange plate 11. The first partition 222 and the second partition 223 both extend into a ring along the outer peripheral wall of the collector 2. The first partition 222 and the second partition 223 are respectively connected to the inner wall of the corresponding first assembly hole 112 to form a first collection cavity 3. The first collection cavity 3 is connected to the corresponding first diversion hole 1121. The corresponding collection hole 221 is located between the first partition 222 and the second partition 223.

[0093] Thus, the first baffle 222 and the second baffle 223 are respectively connected to the inner wall of the corresponding first assembly hole 112 to form the first collection cavity 3. The first collection cavity 3 is connected to the corresponding first diversion hole 1121. The corresponding collection hole 221 is located between the first baffle 222 and the second baffle 223 so that the refrigerant flowing out from the collection hole 221 flows into the corresponding first collection cavity 3, and then flows into the heat exchange channel 111 through the first collection cavity 3 and the corresponding first diversion hole 1121; or, the refrigerant in the heat exchange channel 111 of each heat exchange plate 11 flows into the corresponding first collection cavity 3 through the first diversion hole 1121, and then flows into the corresponding collection hole 221 through the first collection cavity 3 and into the collection channel 211.

[0094] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 4-11 As shown, the outer peripheral wall of the inner tube 21 has multiple sets of first partitions 214 spaced apart. The multiple sets of first partitions 214 are arranged along a first direction. Each set of first partitions 214 includes a third partition 2141 and a fourth partition 2142 spaced apart along the first direction. The third partition 2141 and the fourth partition 2142 both extend into a ring along the outer peripheral wall of the inner tube 21. The third partition 2141 and the fourth partition 2142 are respectively connected to the inner wall of the outer tube 22 to form a second flow collection cavity 23.

[0095] It is understood that by arranging multiple sets of first baffles 214 at intervals along the first direction, the third baffle 2141 and the fourth baffle 2142 of each set of first baffles 214 are connected to the inner wall of the outer tube 22 to form multiple second collecting cavities 23 at intervals along the first direction. At the same time, the second collecting cavities 23 are formed by connecting the annular third baffle 2141 and the annular fourth baffle 2142 to the inner wall of the outer tube 22, respectively. This effectively ensures the sealing of the second collecting cavities 23 while achieving a reliable connection between the inner tube 21 and the outer tube 22, thereby improving the overall reliability of the collecting device 2.

[0096] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 4 , Figure 7 and Figure 11 As shown, at least one of the extending directions of the third partition 2141 and the fourth partition 2142 forms a first angle with the first direction, where the first angle is either acute or obtuse. Therefore, this arrangement allows the refrigerant to connect with the inner wall of the outer pipe 22 through the third partition 2141 and the fourth partition 2142 to form the second manifold 23. This facilitates uniform mixing of the gaseous and liquid refrigerant within the second manifold 23, ensuring uniform distribution of the refrigerant and effectively improving the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger 100.

[0097] In a specific embodiment, such as Figures 1-11As shown, the heat exchange unit 1 includes multiple heat exchange plates 11 spaced apart in a first direction. Each heat exchange plate 11 has a heat exchange channel 111. At least one end of the heat exchange unit 1 in the length direction is provided with a collector 2. The collector 2 passes through the multiple heat exchange plates 11 along the first direction. The collector 2 has a collecting channel 211 and multiple collecting holes 221 communicating with the collecting channel 211. The multiple collecting holes 221 are arranged along the first direction and communicate with the multiple heat exchange channels 111 respectively. Each heat exchange plate 11 has a first mounting hole 112. The collector 2 passes through the first mounting hole 112. The inner wall of the first mounting hole 112 has a first diversion hole 1121 communicating with the heat exchange channel 111. The outer peripheral wall of the collector 2 has a first partition 222 and a second partition 223 spaced apart at positions corresponding to each heat exchange plate 11. Both the first partition 222 and the second partition 223 extend along the outer peripheral wall of the collector 2. The first baffle 222 and the second baffle 223 are respectively connected to the inner wall of the corresponding first assembly hole 112 to form a first flow collecting cavity 3. The first flow collecting cavity 3 is connected to the corresponding first diversion hole 1121. The corresponding flow collecting hole 221 is disposed between the first baffle 222 and the second baffle 223. The first flow collecting cavity 3 is connected to the corresponding flow collecting hole 221 and the heat exchange channel 111. The flow collecting component 2 includes an inner tube 21 and an outer tube 22. The inner tube 21 has a flow collecting channel 211 and a plurality of second diversion holes 212 connected to the flow collecting channel 211. The plurality of second diversion holes 212 are arranged along a first direction. The outer tube 22 is sleeved outside the inner tube 21 and has a plurality of flow collecting holes 221. A plurality of second flow collecting cavities 23 arranged along the first direction are formed between the outer tube 22 and the inner tube 21. The second flow collecting cavity 23 is connected to at least one second diversion hole 212 and at least one flow collecting hole 221 respectively.

[0098] Therefore, the refrigerant in the collection channel 211 flows through multiple second diversion holes 212 to multiple second collection cavities 23 respectively, and the refrigerant in the multiple second collection cavities 23 flows through multiple collection holes 221 to the corresponding first collection cavity 3, and then flows through the first collection cavity 3 into the corresponding heat exchange channel 111; or, the refrigerant in the heat exchange channel 111 of each heat exchange plate 11 flows into the corresponding first collection cavity 3, then flows through the first collection cavity 3 into the corresponding collection hole 221, and then flows through the collection hole 221 into the corresponding second collection cavity 23, and the refrigerant in the multiple second collection cavities 23 flows through multiple second diversion holes 212 into the collection channel 211.

[0099] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 1-3 and Figure 12As shown, the heat exchanger 100 includes a first heat exchange module 101 and a second heat exchange module 102. Both the first heat exchange module 101 and the second heat exchange module 102 include a heat exchange unit 1 and a collector 2, and the collector 2 is provided at one end of the heat exchange unit 1 along its length. The heat exchanger 100 also includes a manifold 4, which connects the end of the first heat exchange module 101 away from the collector 2 and the end of the second heat exchange module 102 away from the collector 2. The other end of the first heat exchange module 101 extends in a direction away from the second heat exchange module 102.

[0100] Understandably, when the length of the heat exchanger 100 is long, it is necessary to divide the heat exchanger 100 along the length of the heat exchange unit 1 into multiple heat exchange modules, including a first heat exchange module 101 and a second heat exchange module 102, thereby ensuring the structural stability of the heat exchange plate 11. Simultaneously, the manifold 4 connects the end of the first heat exchange module 101 furthest from the collector 2 and the end of the second heat exchange module 102 furthest from the collector 2. This manifold 4 connects and communicates the heat exchange channels 111 of the heat exchange plate 11 of the first heat exchange module 101 and the heat exchange channels 111 of the heat exchange plate 11 of the second heat exchange module 102, allowing the refrigerant to flow smoothly between the first heat exchange module 101 and the second heat exchange module 102 and exchange heat, thus improving the reliability of the heat exchanger 100.

[0101] In some embodiments, such as Figure 26 As shown, the heat exchanger 100 also includes a third heat exchange module 103. The second heat exchange module 102 is located between the first heat exchange module 101 and the third heat exchange module 103. There are two manifolds 2, which are respectively connected to one end of the first heat exchange module 101 and one end of the third heat exchange module 103. There are two junctions 4, one of which connects to the end of the first heat exchange module 101 away from the manifold 2 and the end of the second heat exchange module 102, and the other of which connects to the end of the third heat exchange module 101 away from the manifold 2 and the end of the second heat exchange module 102 away from the first heat exchange module 101. Thus, this arrangement allows the heat exchanger 100 to be adapted to various models of air conditioners.

[0102] In some embodiments of the present invention, the heat exchange plate 11 is a single piece. This single piece design improves the overall structural strength of the heat exchange plate 11 and allows for more precise control of the size and shape of the heat exchange channel 111 during manufacturing, thereby optimizing the flow path of the refrigerant.

[0103] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 12-17As shown, the heat exchange plate 11 of the first heat exchange module 101 is defined as the first plate 12, and the heat exchange plate 11 of the second heat exchange module 102 is defined as the second plate 13. Along the first direction, the first plate 12 and the second plate 13 are alternately arranged along the manifold 4. Thus, this arrangement allows the first plate 12 and the second plate 13 to be connected and communicated within the manifold 4, while simultaneously allowing the manifold 4 to pass through the first plate 12 and the second plate 13, integrating the manifold 4 onto the heat exchange unit 1 of the first heat exchange module 101 and the heat exchange unit 1 of the second heat exchange module 102. This effectively reduces the external dimensions and internal volume of the manifold 4. Consequently, by reducing the internal volume of the manifold 4, the amount of refrigerant required is reduced, thereby lowering costs. Simultaneously, less refrigerant means the heat exchange system can reach the required temperature more quickly and reduces energy loss during refrigerant circulation, improving the energy efficiency of the heat exchanger 100 and the air conditioner using it. Furthermore, by reducing the external dimensions of the manifold 4, the overall size and volume of the heat exchanger 100 are reduced, making the heat exchanger 100 more flexible in adapting to different usage scenarios and meeting various space constraints and performance requirements.

[0104] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 12-17 and Figures 22-24 As shown, the heat exchange plate 11 has multiple sub-channels 122. The sub-channels 122 of the first plate 12 and the sub-channels 122 of an adjacent second plate 13 form a heat exchange channel 111. The manifold 4 has multiple manifold cavities 41 corresponding one-to-one with the multiple heat exchange channels 111, and the multiple manifold cavities 41 are arranged along a first direction. Thus, through this arrangement, the refrigerant in the sub-channels 122 of the first plate 12 flows into the corresponding manifold cavities 41, and then flows into the sub-channels 122 of the second plate 13 through the manifold cavities 41; or, the refrigerant in the sub-channels 122 of the second plate 13 flows into the corresponding manifold cavities 41, and then flows into the sub-channels 122 of the first plate 12 through the manifold cavities 41.

[0105] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 12-21 As shown, the manifold 4 has a cavity 42 extending along the length of the manifold 4. The cavity 42 has multiple sets of second partitions 43 arranged at intervals. The multiple sets of second partitions 43 are arranged along a first direction. Each set of second partitions 43 includes a fifth partition 431 and a sixth partition 432 arranged at intervals along the first direction. The fifth partition 431 and the sixth partition 432 both extend in a ring shape along the circumferential direction of the manifold 4. A manifold cavity 41 is formed between the fifth partition 431 and the sixth partition 432.

[0106] Therefore, by arranging multiple sets of second partitions 43 at intervals along the first direction, the fifth partition 431 and the sixth partition 432 of each set of second partitions 43 form multiple manifolds 41 spaced apart along the first direction. Simultaneously, the manifolds 41 formed by the annular fifth partition 431 and the annular sixth partition 432 effectively ensure the sealing of the manifolds 41 and improve the strength of the manifold 4, thereby effectively enhancing the overall reliability of the manifold 4.

[0107] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 15 , Figure 17 and Figure 21 As shown, at least one of the extending directions of the fifth partition 431 and the sixth partition 432 forms a second angle with the first direction, where the second angle is either acute or obtuse. This arrangement ensures that when the refrigerant passes through the manifold 41 formed by the fifth partition 431 and the sixth partition 432, the gaseous and liquid refrigerant within the manifold 41 mixes evenly, guaranteeing uniform distribution of the refrigerant and effectively improving the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger 100.

[0108] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 12-21 As shown, the first plate 12, an adjacent second plate 13, and a manifold 4 form a third manifold 5. The third manifold 5 is connected to the corresponding manifold 41, the sub-channel 122 of the first plate 12, and the sub-channel 122 of the second plate 13.

[0109] It is understandable that the refrigerant in the sub-channel 122 of the first plate 12 flows into the third manifold 5, then into the corresponding confluence chamber 41, and finally into the sub-channel 122 of the second plate 13; or, the refrigerant in the sub-channel 122 of the second plate 13 flows into the third manifold 5, then into the corresponding confluence chamber 41, and finally into the sub-channel 122 of the first plate 12. Thus, the arrangement of the third manifold 5 allows the refrigerant to flow smoothly between the confluence chamber 41 and the sub-channel 122, effectively optimizing the refrigerant flow path, reducing the resistance and pressure loss of the refrigerant inside the heat exchanger 100, thereby improving the refrigerant flow efficiency and ultimately enhancing the heat exchange effect of the heat exchanger 100.

[0110] In some embodiments, such as Figures 12-21As shown, the manifold 4 has multiple first manifold holes 46 and multiple second manifold holes 47 corresponding to multiple manifold cavities 41. The third manifold 5 includes a first sub-cavity and a second sub-cavity, wherein the first manifold hole 46 communicates with the corresponding manifold cavity 41 and the first sub-cavity, and the second manifold hole 47 communicates with the corresponding manifold cavity 41 and the second sub-cavity. Thus, the refrigerant in the sub-channel 122 of the first plate 12 flows into the first sub-cavity, then flows into the corresponding manifold cavity 41 through the first sub-cavity and the first manifold hole 46, and finally flows into the second sub-cavity through the manifold cavity 41 and the second manifold hole 47, and then flows into the sub-channel 122 of the second plate 13 through the second sub-cavity.

[0111] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 12-25 As shown, the first plate 12 has a second assembly hole 121, and the second assembly hole 121 has a third diversion hole 1211 communicating with the sub-channel 122 of the first plate 12. The second plate 13 has a third assembly hole 131, and the third assembly hole 131 has a fourth diversion hole 1311 communicating with the sub-channel 122 of the second plate 13. The manifold 4 passes through the second assembly hole 121 and the third assembly hole 131. The outer peripheral wall of the manifold 4 has a seventh baffle 44 and an eighth baffle 45 arranged at intervals corresponding to the position of each heat exchange plate 11. The seventh baffle 44 and the eighth baffle 45 both extend into a ring along the outer peripheral wall of the manifold 4. The seventh baffle 44 is connected to the inner wall of the corresponding second assembly hole 121, and the eighth baffle 45 is connected to the inner wall of the corresponding third assembly hole 131. The seventh baffle 44, the eighth baffle 45 and the corresponding first plate 12 and second plate 13 form a third collection cavity 5.

[0112] Thus, the refrigerant in the sub-channel 122 of the first plate 12 flows into the corresponding third collector cavity 5 through the third diversion hole 1211, then flows into the corresponding manifold 41 through the third collector cavity 5, and finally flows into the sub-channel 122 of the second plate 13 through the manifold 41 and the fourth diversion hole 1311 of the second plate 13; or, the refrigerant in the sub-channel 122 of the second plate 13 flows into the corresponding third collector cavity 5 through the fourth diversion hole 1311, then flows into the corresponding manifold 41 through the third collector cavity 5, and finally flows into the sub-channel 122 of the second plate 13 through the manifold 41 and the third diversion hole 1211 of the first plate 12.

[0113] Meanwhile, by connecting the annular seventh partition 44 to the inner wall of the corresponding second assembly hole 121 and the annular eighth partition 45 to the inner wall of the corresponding third assembly hole 131, the connection between the manifold 4 and the first plate 12 and the second plate 13 is realized. While effectively ensuring the sealing of the third collection cavity 5, the manifold 4 and the heat exchange plate 11 are reliably connected, thereby improving the overall reliability of the heat exchanger 100.

[0114] Furthermore, the first plate 12 has a second mounting hole 121 and the second plate 13 has a third mounting hole 131, so that the manifold 4 can be inserted into the first plate 12 and the second plate 13 in the same heat exchange plate 11 along the first direction. Optionally, the heat exchange plate 11 and the manifold 4 are integrally brazed in a furnace, which ensures a reliable connection between the heat exchange plate 11 and the manifold 4, while eliminating the processes of tube expansion, tube flattening, and fin assembly, effectively improving production efficiency.

[0115] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 15 and Figure 17 As shown, the second mounting hole 121 has a first overlapping portion 1213, and the third mounting hole 131 has a first extension portion 1313 extending toward the seventh partition plate 44. The first extension portion 1313 has a second overlapping portion 1314 that mates with the first overlapping portion 1213.

[0116] Understandably, along the first direction, since the first plate 12 and the second plate 13 are alternately arranged along the manifold 4, the first overlapping portion 1213 of the first plate 12 and the second overlapping portion 1314 of the second plate 13 cooperate to ensure a tight fit between the first plate 12 and the second plate, improving the reliability of their connection. This, in turn, improves the structural strength of the heat exchange plate 11 and the sealing performance of the third manifold 5 formed by the seventh partition 44, the eighth partition 45, and the corresponding first plate 12 and second plate 13. Optionally, the first plate 12 and the second plate 13 are integrally brazed in a furnace, which effectively improves production efficiency while ensuring a reliable connection between the first plate 12 and the second plate 13.

[0117] Furthermore, the first overlapping portion 1213 is a recessed portion that is recessed in the direction away from the center of the second mounting hole 121, and the recessed portion extends in an annular shape in the circumferential direction of the second mounting hole 121. The second overlapping portion 1314 is a protrusion that protrudes in the direction close to the center of the third mounting hole 131, and the protrusion extends in an annular shape in the circumferential direction of the third mounting hole 131. Thus, the stability of the connection between the first plate 12 and the second plate 13 is further improved by the cooperation of the recessed portion and the protrusion.

[0118] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 15 and Figure 17 As shown, the second mounting hole 121 has a second extension 1214 extending toward the seventh partition 44. The second extension 1214 is located on the side of the third diversion hole 1211 away from the first overlapping portion 1213. The second extension 1214 has a third overlapping portion 1215. The third mounting hole 131 has a fourth overlapping portion 1315, which is located on the side of the fourth diversion hole 1311 away from the second overlapping portion 1314.

[0119] Along the first direction, the third overlapping portion 1215 of the first plate 12 of any two adjacent heat exchange plates 11 is spliced ​​and connected to the fourth overlapping portion 1315 of the second plate 13 of the other heat exchange plate 11.

[0120] Understandably, along the first direction, since multiple heat exchange plates 11 are arranged along the first direction, and the first plate 12 and the second plate 13 are alternately arranged along the manifold 4, the third overlap 1215 of one of the two adjacent heat exchange plates 11 is spliced ​​and connected to the fourth overlap 1315 of the second plate 13 of the other heat exchange plate 11. This ensures a tight fit between the two adjacent heat exchange plates 11, improves the reliability of the connection between them, and thus improves the overall structural strength of the heat exchange unit 1. Optionally, the two adjacent heat exchange plates 11 are integrally brazed in a furnace, which effectively improves production efficiency while ensuring the reliable connection between the two adjacent heat exchange plates 11.

[0121] Furthermore, the third overlapping portion 1215 is a protrusion that protrudes toward the center of the second mounting hole 121, and the protrusion extends in a ring shape along the circumferential direction of the second mounting hole 121. The fourth overlapping portion 1315 is a recessed portion that is recessed toward the direction away from the center of the third mounting hole 131, and the recessed portion extends in a ring shape along the circumferential direction of the third mounting hole 131. Thus, through the cooperation of the recessed portion and the protrusion, the connection between the first plate 12 of one heat exchange plate 11 and the second plate 13 of the other heat exchange plate 11 is stable.

[0122] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, the sub-channel 122 of the first plate 12 includes a plurality of first microchannels 1221 arranged along the width direction of the first plate 12. The first microchannels 1221 extend along the length direction of the first plate 12. The third diversion hole 1211 includes a plurality of second subholes 1212 spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the second assembly hole 121. The first microchannel 1221 communicates with at least one second subhole 1212.

[0123] It is understandable that the refrigerant in the third manifold 5 flows into the multiple second sub-holes 1212 in the corresponding third diversion hole 1211, and then flows into the multiple first microchannels 1221 through the multiple second sub-holes 1212; or, the refrigerant in the multiple first microchannels 1221 of the first plate 12 flows into the corresponding third manifold 5 through the multiple second sub-holes 1212.

[0124] Therefore, the heat exchange efficiency of the first plate 12 can be effectively improved by using multiple first microchannels 1221. Simultaneously, the third distribution hole 1211 includes multiple second sub-holes 1212 spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the second assembly hole 121. Each first microchannel 1221 communicates with at least one second sub-hole 1212, allowing the refrigerant in the third manifold 5 to be more evenly distributed within the multiple first microchannels 1221, thus improving the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchange plate 11. Furthermore, the arrangement of the third manifold 5 effectively reduces the flow resistance of the refrigerant between the third manifold 5 and the multiple first microchannels 1221, thereby improving the refrigerant flow efficiency.

[0125] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 24 and Figure 25 As shown, the sub-channel 122 of the second plate 13 includes a plurality of second microchannels arranged along the width direction of the second plate 13. The second microchannels extend along the length direction of the second plate 13. The fourth diversion hole 1311 includes a plurality of third subholes 1312 spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the second assembly hole 121. The second microchannels are connected to at least one third subhole 1312.

[0126] It is understandable that the refrigerant in the third manifold 5 flows into the multiple third sub-holes 1312 in the corresponding fourth diversion hole 1311, and then flows into the multiple second microchannels through the multiple third sub-holes 1312; or, the refrigerant in the multiple second microchannels of the second plate 13 flows into the corresponding third manifold 5 through the multiple third sub-holes 1312.

[0127] Therefore, the heat exchange efficiency of the second plate 13 can be effectively improved by using multiple second microchannels. Simultaneously, the fourth distribution hole 1311 includes multiple third sub-holes 1312 spaced circumferentially along the third assembly hole 131, and each second microchannel communicates with at least one third sub-hole 1312. This allows the refrigerant in the third manifold 5 to be distributed more evenly into the multiple second microchannels, improving the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchange plate 11. Furthermore, the arrangement of the third manifold 5 effectively reduces the flow resistance of the refrigerant between the third manifold 5 and the multiple second microchannels, improving the refrigerant flow efficiency.

[0128] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 23As shown, the sub-channel 122 of the first plate 12 includes a plurality of first microchannels 1221 arranged along the width direction of the first plate 12, and the first microchannels 1221 extend along the length direction of the first plate 12. The third diversion hole 1211 includes a plurality of second sub-holes 1212 spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the second mounting hole 121, and the first microchannels 1221 communicate with at least one of the second sub-holes 1212. The sub-channel 122 of the second plate 13 includes a plurality of second microchannels arranged along the width direction of the second plate 13, and the second microchannels extend along the length direction of the second plate 13. The fourth diversion hole 1311 includes a plurality of third sub-holes 1312 spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the second mounting hole 121, and the second microchannels communicate with at least one of the third sub-holes 1312.

[0129] Thus, the refrigerant in the multiple first microchannels 1221 of the first plate 12 flows into the corresponding third manifold 5 through multiple second sub-holes 1212, and the refrigerant in the third manifold 5 flows into the multiple third sub-holes 1312 in the corresponding fourth diversion hole 1311, and then into the multiple second microchannels through the multiple third sub-holes 1312, thereby realizing the flow of refrigerant from the first plate 12 to the second plate 13; or, the refrigerant in the multiple second microchannels of the second plate 13 flows into the corresponding third manifold 5 through multiple third sub-holes 1312, and the refrigerant in the third manifold 5 flows into the multiple second sub-holes 1212 in the corresponding third diversion hole 1211, and then into the multiple first microchannels 1221 through the multiple second sub-holes 1212, thereby realizing the flow of refrigerant from the second plate 13 to the first plate 12.

[0130] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1 and Figure 26 As shown, a third angle exists between the first heat exchange module 101 and the second heat exchange module 102, which can be an acute angle, a right angle, or an obtuse angle. Therefore, by setting the third angle, the heat exchanger 100 composed of the first heat exchange module 101 and the second heat exchange module 102 can more flexibly adapt to different usage scenarios, meet various space constraints and performance requirements, satisfy diverse needs in different scenarios, and improve the versatility of the heat exchanger 100 so that it can be adapted to different models of air conditioners.

[0131] In some embodiments, such as Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, along the length of the first plate 12, both ends of the first microchannel 1221 extend to the two side faces of the first plate 12. The first plate 12 is provided with first sealing members (not shown in the figure) for sealing both ends of the multiple first microchannels 1221. Thus, the first sealing members can seal both ends of the first microchannels 1221 along the length of the first plate 12, ensuring that the refrigerant in the first microchannels 1221 flows along the prescribed path, thereby improving the reliability of the heat exchanger 100.

[0132] Of course, the two ends of the first microchannel 1221 along the length of the first plate 12 can also be used as blind holes. Users can block the two ends of the first microchannel 1221 along the length of the first plate 12 to ensure that the refrigerant in the first microchannel 1221 flows along the prescribed path and improve the reliability of the heat exchanger 100.

[0133] In some embodiments, such as Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, the first plate 12 includes a first tube portion 123 and at least one first fin portion 124. A first microchannel 1221 and a second assembly hole 121 are formed on the first tube portion 123. The first fin portion 124 is disposed at one end of the first tube portion 123 along the width direction of the first plate 12. Both the first tube portion 123 and the first fin portion 124 extend along the length direction of the first plate 12. In the direction from the first tube portion 123 to the first fin portion 124, the thickness of the first fin portion 124 gradually decreases.

[0134] Therefore, the first fin portion 124 effectively increases the heat exchange surface area of ​​the first plate 12, and the thickness of the first fin portion 124 is thinner than the thickness of the first tube body portion 123. The thinner first fin portion 124 can provide more heat transfer area in a limited space, which is beneficial to the heat exchange process of the heat exchanger 100, and allows heat or cold energy to be transferred from the heat exchange medium to the airflow more quickly, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency. At the same time, the thickness of the first fin portion 124 gradually decreases in the direction from the first tube body portion 123 to the first fin portion 124, effectively reducing flow resistance and further improving heat exchange efficiency.

[0135] In some embodiments, such as Figure 24 and Figure 25 As shown, along the length of the second plate 13, both ends of the second microchannel extend to the two side faces of the second plate 13. The second plate 13 is provided with second sealing members (not shown in the figure) for sealing both ends of the multiple first microchannels 1221. Thus, the two ends of the second microchannel along the length of the second plate 13 can be sealed by the second sealing members, ensuring that the refrigerant in the second microchannel flows along the prescribed path and improving the reliability of the heat exchanger 100.

[0136] Of course, the two ends of the second microchannel along the length of the second plate 13 can also be used as blind holes. Users can block the two ends of the second microchannel along the length of the second plate 13 to ensure that the refrigerant in the second microchannel flows along the prescribed path and improve the reliability of the heat exchanger 100.

[0137] In some embodiments, such as Figure 24 and Figure 25As shown, the second plate 13 includes a second tube portion 133 and at least one second fin portion 134. A second microchannel and a second assembly hole 121 are formed on the second tube portion 133. The second fin portion 134 is disposed at one end of the second tube portion 133 along the width direction of the second plate 13. Both the second tube portion 133 and the second fin portion 134 extend along the length direction of the second plate 13. In the direction from the second tube portion 133 to the second fin portion 134, the thickness of the second fin portion 134 gradually decreases.

[0138] Therefore, the second fin portion 134 effectively increases the heat exchange surface area of ​​the second plate 13, and the thickness of the second fin portion 134 is thinner than that of the second tube body portion 133. The thinner second fin portion 134 can provide more heat transfer area in a limited space, which is beneficial to the heat exchange process of the heat exchanger 100, and allows heat or cold energy to be transferred from the heat exchange medium to the airflow more quickly, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency. At the same time, the thickness of the second fin portion 134 gradually decreases in the direction from the second tube body portion 133 to the second fin portion 134, effectively reducing flow resistance and further improving heat exchange efficiency.

[0139] The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention is described below.

[0140] An air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a heat exchanger 100. The heat exchange unit 1 of the heat exchanger 100 includes a plurality of heat exchange plates 11 spaced apart in a first direction, each heat exchange plate 11 having a heat exchange channel 111. Thus, heat exchange occurs through refrigerant flowing within the heat exchange channel of each heat exchange plate 11, achieving the heat exchange effect of the heat exchange plate 11. Simultaneously, by forming the heat exchange unit 1 with a plurality of heat exchange plates 11 spaced apart along the first direction, while ensuring that each heat exchange plate 11 can independently and effectively perform heat exchange, the overall heat exchange performance of the heat exchange unit 1 is effectively improved through the synergistic effect of the plurality of heat exchange plates 11.

[0141] At least one end of the heat exchange unit 1 along its length is provided with a collector 2. The collector 2 passes through multiple heat exchange plates 11 along a first direction. The collector 2 has a collecting channel 211 and multiple collecting holes 221 communicating with the collecting channel 211. The multiple collecting holes 221 are arranged along the first direction and are respectively connected to multiple heat exchange channels 111. Thus, this arrangement allows the refrigerant in the collecting channel 211 to flow into the multiple heat exchange channels 111 through the multiple collecting holes 221, or the refrigerant in the heat exchange channel 111 of each heat exchange plate 11 can flow into the collecting channel 211 through the multiple collecting holes 221, thereby ensuring the heat exchange effect of the heat exchange plates 11 and the heat exchange unit 1.

[0142] By integrating the manifold 2 along the first direction onto multiple heat exchange plates 11, the external dimensions and internal volume of the manifold 2 are effectively reduced. This reduction in internal volume reduces the amount of refrigerant required, thereby lowering costs and conserving resources. Furthermore, less refrigerant means the heat exchange system can reach the required temperature more quickly and reduces energy loss during circulation, improving the energy efficiency of the heat exchanger 100 and the air conditioner using it. Additionally, the reduced external dimensions of the manifold 2 decrease the overall size and volume of the heat exchanger 100, allowing it to more flexibly adapt to different application scenarios and meet various space constraints and performance requirements.

[0143] In some embodiments, such as Figure 27 As shown, it includes a refrigeration system 200. The refrigeration system 200 includes a compressor 210, a reversing assembly 220, an indoor air conditioning unit, an outdoor air conditioning unit, and an expansion valve 230. The outdoor air conditioning unit includes an indoor heat exchanger 240, and the indoor air conditioning unit includes the aforementioned heat exchanger 100.

[0144] Specifically, the compressor 210 has an exhaust port 2011 and an exhaust port 2012. When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the compressor 210 generates high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant, which is discharged through the exhaust port 2011 to provide power for the cooling cycle.

[0145] The reversing assembly 220 has a first port 2021, a second port 2022, a third port 2023, and a fourth port 2024. The first port 2021 is connected to one of the second port 2022 and the third port 2023, and the fourth port 2024 is connected to the other of the second port 2022 and the third port 2023. The first port 2021 is connected to the exhaust port 2011, and the fourth port 2024 is connected to the return port 2012. It can be understood that the first port 2021 is connected to the second port 2022, and the fourth port 2024 is connected to the third port 2023; or the first port 2021 is connected to the third port 2023, and the fourth port 2024 is connected to the second port 2022. One end of the indoor heat exchanger 240 is connected to the second port 2022, and one end of the heat exchanger 100 is connected to the third port 2023.

[0146] The expansion valve 230 has an inlet 231 and an outlet 232. The inlet 231 is connected to the other end of the indoor heat exchanger 240, and the outlet 232 is connected to the other end of the heat exchanger 100.

[0147] In refrigeration mode, the first port 2021 of the reversing assembly 220 is connected to the second port 2022, and the fourth port 2024 is connected to the third port 2023. The compressor 210 generates high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. The refrigerant generated by the compressor 210 is discharged from the compressor 210 through the exhaust port 2011, then flows into the reversing assembly 220 through the first port 2021 connected to the exhaust port 2011, and flows out through the second port 2022 to the indoor heat exchanger 240. The high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant is sent to the indoor heat exchanger 240, where it exchanges heat with the external environment (air or water), thereby being cooled and condensed into medium-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. The refrigerant flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger 240 flows to the liquid inlet 231 of the electronic expansion valve 230. The electronic expansion valve 230 reduces the condensing pressure of the refrigerant to the evaporating pressure, and a portion of the liquid refrigerant will be converted into vapor, forming a low-temperature, low-pressure gas-liquid mixture, which enters the heat exchanger 100 through the liquid outlet 232. The refrigerant in the heat exchanger 100 exchanges heat with the warmer external airflow. The refrigerant in the heat exchanger 100 absorbs heat and undergoes a phase change, forming a lower-temperature gaseous or gas-liquid mixture refrigerant. The refrigerant flowing out of the heat exchanger 100 enters the third port 2023 of the reversing assembly 220, flows out of the reversing assembly 220 from the fourth port 2024 connected to the third port 2023, and flows back to the return port 2012 of the compressor 210.

[0148] In heating mode, the first port 2021 of the reversing assembly 220 is connected to the third port 2023, and the fourth port 2024 is connected to the second port 2022. The compressor 210 generates high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. The refrigerant generated by the compressor 210 is discharged from the compressor 210 through the exhaust port 2011, then flows into the reversing assembly 220 through the first port 2021 connected to the exhaust port 2011, and flows to the heat exchanger 100 through the third port 2023. The refrigerant exchanges heat with the external environment (air or water) through the heat exchanger 100, releasing a large amount of heat, thereby heating the indoor air. The refrigerant condenses from a gaseous state to a liquid state, releasing condensation heat. The refrigerant flowing out of the heat exchanger 100 flows to the liquid outlet 232 of the electronic expansion valve 230, where the pressure decreases, and some of the liquid refrigerant vaporizes, forming a low-temperature, low-pressure gas-liquid mixture. The refrigerant flows through the liquid outlet 232 to the indoor heat exchanger 240. The refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 240 absorbs heat from the outdoor air through evaporation. The refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 240 absorbs heat and undergoes a phase change, forming a gaseous or gas-liquid mixture refrigerant at a lower temperature. The refrigerant flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger 240 enters the second port 2022 of the reversing assembly 220, flows out of the reversing assembly 220 from the fourth port 2024 connected to the second port 2022, and flows back to the return port 2012 of the compressor 210.

[0149] The refrigeration system 200 also includes a gas-liquid separator 250, which is located between the return port 2012 and the fourth port 2024 of the compressor 210. This separator ensures rapid separation of the gas-liquid mixture exiting the heat exchanger 100. The gas-liquid separator 250 ensures that only gas enters the compressor 210, thereby maintaining the system's normal operating efficiency and stability, and preventing liquid from entering the compressor 210 and causing liquid slugging. The gas-liquid separator 250 can store a portion of the refrigerant recovered from the system and return it to the compressor 210 when needed, thus achieving refrigerant recycling.

[0150] In some air conditioners, the gas-liquid separator 250 is also equipped with a filter or screen for further filtration and separation of tiny liquid particles or solid impurities, thereby ensuring the purity of the gas.

[0151] The refrigeration system 200 also includes an oil separator 260, which is located between the exhaust port 2011 and the first port 2021 of the compressor 210. The oil separator 260 separates the lubricating oil from the high-pressure steam discharged from the refrigeration compressor 210 to ensure safe and efficient operation of the device. By separating the lubricating oil, it can be prevented from entering other parts of the refrigeration system 200, thereby avoiding damage to these parts.

[0152] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an air conditioner is provided with a heat exchanger 100. The heat exchange unit 1 includes a plurality of heat exchange plates 11 spaced apart in a first direction. Each heat exchange plate 11 has a heat exchange channel 111. At least one end of the heat exchange unit 1 in the length direction is provided with a collector 2. The collector 2 passes through the plurality of heat exchange plates 11 along the first direction. The collector 2 has a collection channel 211 and a plurality of collection holes 221 communicating with the collection channel 211. The plurality of collection holes 221 are arranged along the first direction and communicate with the plurality of heat exchange channels 111 respectively, so that the collector 2 is integrated on the heat exchange unit 1, thereby effectively reducing the external size and internal volume of the collector 2, thereby reducing the amount of refrigerant charged and effectively reducing the cost of the air conditioner. At the same time, by reducing the overall size and volume of the heat exchanger 100, the heat exchanger 100 can be more flexibly adapted to different usage scenarios, meet various space constraints and performance requirements, and thus achieve compatibility with different models of air conditioners.

[0153] The heat exchanger 100 and air conditioner according to embodiments of the present invention, as well as their operation, are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0154] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0155] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A heat exchanger, characterized in that, include: A heat exchange unit, the heat exchange unit comprising a plurality of heat exchange plates spaced apart in a first direction, the heat exchange plates having heat exchange channels; A flow collector is provided at least one end of the heat exchange unit along its length direction. The flow collector passes through a plurality of heat exchange plates along the first direction. The flow collector has a flow collection channel and a plurality of flow collection holes communicating with the flow collection channel. The plurality of flow collection holes are arranged along the first direction and are respectively communicating with the plurality of heat exchange channels.

2. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that, A first collection cavity is formed between each heat exchange plate and the collection element, and the first collection cavity is connected to the corresponding collection hole and the heat exchange channel respectively.

3. The heat exchanger according to claim 2, characterized in that, The heat exchange plate has a first assembly hole, and the flow collector passes through the first assembly hole. The inner wall of the first assembly hole has a first diversion hole that communicates with the heat exchange channel. The outer peripheral wall of the flow collector has a first partition and a second partition spaced apart at the position of each heat exchange plate. The first partition and the second partition both extend in annular shape along the outer peripheral wall of the flow collector. The first partition and the second partition are respectively connected to the inner wall of the corresponding first assembly hole to form the first flow collection cavity. The first flow collection cavity communicates with the corresponding first diversion hole. The corresponding flow collection hole is located between the first partition and the second partition.

4. The heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that, The heat exchange channel includes a plurality of sub-heat exchange channels arranged along the width direction of the heat exchange plate. The sub-heat exchange channels extend along the length direction of the heat exchange plate. The first diversion hole includes a plurality of first sub-holes spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the first assembly hole. The sub-heat exchange channel communicates with at least one of the first sub-holes.

5. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that, The current collector includes: The inner tube has the flow collection channel and a plurality of second flow diversion holes communicating with the flow collection channel, the plurality of second flow diversion holes being arranged along the first direction; An outer tube is sleeved outside the inner tube and has multiple flow collecting holes. Multiple second flow collecting cavities are formed between the outer tube and the inner tube along the first direction. The second flow collecting cavities are respectively connected to at least one second flow dividing hole and at least one flow collecting hole.

6. The heat exchanger according to claim 5, characterized in that, The outer peripheral wall of the inner tube has multiple sets of first partitions arranged at intervals. The multiple sets of first partitions are arranged along the first direction. Each set of first partitions includes a third partition and a fourth partition arranged at intervals along the first direction. The third partition and the fourth partition both extend into a ring along the outer peripheral wall of the inner tube. The third partition and the fourth partition are respectively connected to the inner wall of the outer tube to form the second flow collection cavity.

7. The heat exchanger according to claim 6, characterized in that, At least one of the extending directions of the third partition and the fourth partition has a first angle with the first direction, wherein the first angle is an acute angle or an obtuse angle.

8. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat exchange unit is equipped with the flow collector at both ends along its length.

9. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange module and a second heat exchange module. Both the first and second heat exchange modules include the heat exchange unit and the flow collector. The flow collector is located at one end of the length of the heat exchange unit. The heat exchanger also includes: A manifold connects one end of the first heat exchange module away from the current collector and one end of the second heat exchange module away from the current collector, with the other end of the first heat exchange module extending in a direction away from the second heat exchange module.

10. The heat exchanger according to claim 9, characterized in that, The heat exchange plate of the first heat exchange module is defined as the first plate, and the heat exchange plate of the second heat exchange module is defined as the second plate. Along the first direction, the first plate and the second plate are arranged alternately along the manifold.

11. The heat exchanger according to claim 10, characterized in that, The heat exchange plate has multiple sub-channels, and the sub-channel of the first plate and the sub-channel of an adjacent second plate form the heat exchange channel. The manifold has multiple manifold cavities that correspond one-to-one with the multiple heat exchange channels, and the multiple manifold cavities are arranged along the first direction.

12. The heat exchanger according to claim 11, characterized in that, The manifold has a cavity extending along its length. The cavity contains multiple sets of second partitions spaced apart. The multiple sets of second partitions are arranged along the first direction. Each set of second partitions includes a fifth partition and a sixth partition spaced apart along the first direction. The fifth partition and the sixth partition both extend in a ring shape along the circumferential direction of the manifold. The manifold cavity is formed between the fifth partition and the sixth partition.

13. The heat exchanger according to claim 12, characterized in that, At least one of the extending directions of the fifth partition and the sixth partition has a second angle with the first direction, the second angle being an acute angle or an obtuse angle.

14. The heat exchanger according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first plate, an adjacent second plate, and the manifold form a third collection cavity, which is connected to the corresponding manifold, the sub-channel of the first plate, and the sub-channel of the second plate.

15. The heat exchanger according to claim 14, characterized in that, The first plate has a second mounting hole, the second mounting hole having a third diversion hole communicating with the sub-channel of the first plate, the second plate having a third mounting hole, the third mounting hole having a fourth diversion hole communicating with the sub-channel of the second plate. The manifold is inserted into the second and third assembly holes. The outer peripheral wall of the manifold has a seventh partition and an eighth partition spaced apart from each of the heat exchange plates. The seventh partition and the eighth partition extend in annular shape along the outer peripheral wall of the manifold. The seventh partition is connected to the inner wall of the corresponding second assembly hole, and the eighth partition is connected to the inner wall of the corresponding third assembly hole. The seventh partition, the eighth partition, and the corresponding first and second plates form the third collection cavity.

16. The heat exchanger according to claim 15, characterized in that, The second mounting hole has a first overlapping portion, and the third mounting hole has a first extension portion extending toward the seventh partition plate, and the first extension portion has a second overlapping portion that mates with the first overlapping portion.

17. The heat exchanger according to claim 16, characterized in that, The second mounting hole has a second extension extending toward the seventh partition plate. The second extension is located on the side of the third diversion hole away from the first overlap. The second extension has a third overlap. The third mounting hole has a fourth overlap, located on the side of the fourth diversion hole away from the second overlap. Along the first direction, the third overlap of the first plate of one of any two adjacent heat exchange plates is spliced ​​and connected to the fourth overlap of the second plate of the other heat exchange plate.

18. The heat exchanger according to claim 15, characterized in that, The sub-channel of the first plate includes a plurality of first microchannels arranged along the width direction of the first plate, the first microchannels extending along the length direction of the first plate, and the third diversion hole includes a plurality of second sub-holes spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the second assembly hole, and the first microchannel communicates with at least one of the second sub-holes; And / or, the sub-channel of the second plate includes a plurality of second microchannels arranged along the width direction of the second plate, the second microchannels extending along the length direction of the second plate, and the fourth diversion hole includes a plurality of third sub-holes spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the second mounting hole, and the second microchannel communicates with at least one of the third sub-holes.

19. The heat exchanger according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first heat exchange module and the second heat exchange module have a third included angle, which is an acute angle, a right angle, or an obtuse angle.

20. An air conditioner, characterized in that, Includes the heat exchanger according to claim 19.

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