Gas-liquid separator, heat exchange system and air conditioner

Abstract

The utility model discloses a gas-liquid separator, heat exchange system and air conditioner, the gas-liquid separator includes: the cylinder, the cylinder defines the separation space, the cylinder is provided with the gas outlet communicated with the separation space, first in-out port and second in-out port, the second in-out port is located in the side wall of the cylinder, and the first in-out port and the second in-out port are communicated with the separation space. The multiple second inlets and outlets are spaced in the axial direction of the barrel. According to the gas-liquid separator disclosed by the utility model, the plurality of second inlets and outlets are formed in the side wall of the barrel body and are spaced along the axial direction of the barrel body, so that a gas-liquid mixture respectively enters the separation space from the plurality of second inlets and outlets, and the gas-liquid mixture enters the separation space in a more dispersed and more uniform manner; therefore, the separation efficiency is improved, and vortexes and turbulence are reduced. Meanwhile, the hole diameter of the second inlet and outlet is reduced, the eccentric distance is increased, the gas-liquid separation efficiency is further improved, and the diameter of the barrel can be reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of air processing equipment, in particular to a gas-liquid separator, a heat exchange system and an air conditioner. Background Art

[0002] The gas-liquid separator is a crucial component in the heat exchange system of an air conditioner. Its gas-liquid separation function ensures the system's operating efficiency and stability. However, existing technologies often suffer from poor separation performance and are unable to effectively separate gas-liquid mixtures. Utility Model Content

[0003] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, the present invention provides a gas-liquid separator that allows the gas-liquid mixture to enter the separation space in a more dispersed and uniform manner. Furthermore, by reducing the aperture of the second inlet and outlet, the eccentricity is increased, thereby improving the gas-liquid separation efficiency.

[0004] The present utility model also provides a heat exchange system, which includes the above-mentioned gas-liquid separator.

[0005] The utility model also provides an air conditioner, which includes the above-mentioned heat exchange system.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the gas-liquid separator includes: a cylinder, a separation space is defined in the cylinder, the cylinder has a gas outlet, a first inlet and a second inlet connected to the separation space, the second inlet and the second inlet are located on the side wall of the cylinder and are multiple, and the multiple second inlets and outlets are spaced apart along the axial direction of the cylinder.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the utility model, a gas-liquid separator defines a separation space within a cylinder, and the cylinder has a gas outlet, a first inlet and a second inlet connected to the separation space. The second inlet and the second inlet are located on the side wall of the cylinder and are multiple, and the multiple second inlets and the second inlets are spaced apart along the axial direction of the cylinder so that the gas-liquid mixture enters the separation space from the multiple second inlets and the second inlets, respectively. This allows the gas-liquid mixture to enter the separation space in a more dispersed and uniform manner, thereby improving separation efficiency and reducing eddy currents and turbulence. At the same time, by reducing the aperture of the second inlet and the second inlet, the eccentricity is increased, further improving the gas-liquid separation efficiency, and the diameter of the cylinder can be reduced.

[0008] In some embodiments of the present invention, the gas outlet and the first inlet and outlet are respectively located at two end surfaces of the cylinder in the axial direction.

[0009] Some embodiments of the present invention further include: a first pipeline, one end of which is connected to the gas outlet, wherein the end of the first pipeline connected to the gas outlet extends into the cylinder or is flush with the outer end surface of the cylinder.

[0010] Some embodiments of the present invention further include: a second pipeline, one end of the second pipeline is connected to the first inlet and outlet, wherein the end of the second pipeline connected to the first inlet and outlet is flush with the end surface of the cylinder.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cylinder is a cylindrical cylinder, and the gas-liquid separator also includes: a third pipeline, which is a plurality of third pipelines corresponding one-to-one to the plurality of second inlets and outlets, one end of the plurality of third pipelines is respectively connected to the plurality of second inlets and outlets, and the third pipeline extends along the tangent of the cylinder.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the heat exchange system includes: a compressor having an exhaust port and a return air port; an indoor heat exchanger; the above-mentioned gas-liquid separator; an outdoor heat exchanger, the outdoor heat exchanger including a primary heat exchanger and a secondary heat exchanger, the primary heat exchanger including a plurality of first heat exchange flow paths, one end of each of the plurality of first heat exchange flow paths being connected to one end of the indoor heat exchanger, and the other end being respectively connected to a plurality of second inlets and outlets, the secondary heat exchanger including a second heat exchange flow path, one end of the second heat exchange flow path being connected to the first inlet and outlet; a four-way valve, the four-way valve including a first port, a second port, a third port and a fourth port, the first port being connected to the exhaust port, the second port being connected to an end of the indoor heat exchanger away from the primary heat exchanger, the third port being connected to an end of the second heat exchange flow path away from the first inlet and outlet and the gas outlet, the fourth port being connected to the return air port, the first port being connected to one of the second port and the third port, and the fourth port being connected to the other of the second port and the third port.

[0013] According to the heat exchange system of an embodiment of the present invention, a gas-liquid separator is provided, the compressor has an exhaust port and a return air port, the outdoor heat exchanger includes a first-stage heat exchanger and a second-stage heat exchanger, the first-stage heat exchanger includes multiple first heat exchange flow paths, one end of the multiple first heat exchange flow paths are connected to one end of the indoor heat exchanger, and the other end is respectively connected to multiple second inlets and outlets, the second-stage heat exchanger includes a second heat exchange flow path, one end of the second heat exchange flow path is connected to the first inlet and outlet, the four-way valve includes a first port, a second port, a third port and a fourth port, the first port is connected to the exhaust port, the second port is connected to the end of the indoor heat exchanger away from the first-stage heat exchanger, the third port is connected to the end of the second heat exchange flow path away from the first inlet and outlet and the gas outlet, the fourth port is connected to the return air port, and the first port is connected to one of the second port and the third port, and the fourth port is connected to the other of the second port and the third port, so as to realize the cooling mode and the refrigeration mode of the heat exchange system.

[0014] At the same time, a gas-liquid separator is connected in series between the primary and secondary heat exchangers, allowing the gas-phase refrigerant separated by the gas-liquid separator to flow out through the gas outlet. This reduces the area of ​​the mist flow region within the secondary heat exchanger, improves the evaporative heat transfer coefficient within the secondary heat exchanger, reduces the refrigerant-side pressure drop, and improves the efficiency of the heat exchange system. Furthermore, multiple second inlets and outlets are located on the sidewall of the cylinder, and the multiple second inlets and outlets are spaced apart along the axial direction of the cylinder, allowing the gas-liquid mixture to enter the separation space through the multiple second inlets and outlets, respectively. This allows the gas-liquid mixture to enter the separation space in a more dispersed and uniform manner, thereby improving separation efficiency and reducing eddy currents and turbulence. Furthermore, while maintaining the flow rate of the gas-liquid mixture entering the separation space, the multiple second inlets and outlets located on the sidewall of the cylinder reduce the aperture of the second inlet and outlet, thereby increasing the eccentricity, further improving gas-liquid separation efficiency, and reducing the diameter of the cylinder. This further improves the evaporative heat transfer coefficient within the secondary heat exchanger and reduces the refrigerant-side pressure drop, further improving the efficiency of the heat exchange system.

[0015] Some embodiments of the present invention further include: a control valve, which is provided between the gas outlet and the third port, and the control valve only allows the refrigerant to flow from the gas outlet to the third port.

[0016] Some embodiments of the present invention further include: a first splitter, and the plurality of first heat exchange paths and the indoor heat exchanger are connected via the first splitter.

[0017] In some embodiments of the present invention, there are multiple second heat exchange flow paths, and the heat exchange system further includes: a second splitter, and the multiple second heat exchange flow paths are connected to the first inlet and outlet through the second splitter.

[0018] Some embodiments of the present invention further include: a manifold, one axial end of which is connected to the third port, and a plurality of second heat exchange paths are connected to the peripheral wall of the manifold and are spaced apart along the axial direction of the manifold.

[0019] In some embodiments of the present invention, the indoor heat exchanger includes a plurality of indoor sub-heat exchangers arranged in parallel.

[0020] In some embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of first heat exchange flow paths correspond one-to-one to the plurality of second inlets and outlets, and one end of the first heat exchange flow path is connected to the corresponding second inlet and outlet; or, the number of the first heat exchange flow paths is greater than the number of the second inlets and outlets, and at least one of the second inlet and outlet is connected to the plurality of the first heat exchange flow paths.

[0021] An air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes the above-mentioned heat exchange system.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an air conditioner is provided with a heat exchange system to achieve both a cooling mode and a cooling mode. Furthermore, a gas-liquid separator is connected in series between the primary and secondary heat exchangers, allowing the gaseous refrigerant separated by the gas-liquid separator to flow out through a gas outlet. This reduces the area of ​​the mist flow region within the secondary heat exchanger, improves the evaporation heat transfer coefficient within the secondary heat exchanger, reduces the refrigerant-side pressure drop, and improves the efficiency of the air conditioner. Furthermore, multiple second inlets and outlets are located on the sidewall of the cylinder, and the multiple second inlets and outlets are spaced apart along the axial direction of the cylinder, allowing the gas-liquid mixture to enter the separation space through the multiple second inlets and outlets, respectively. This allows the gas-liquid mixture to enter the separation space in a more dispersed and uniform manner, thereby improving separation efficiency and reducing eddy currents and turbulence. Furthermore, while maintaining the flow rate of the gas-liquid mixture entering the separation space, the multiple second inlets and outlets located on the sidewall of the cylinder reduce the aperture of the second inlet and outlet, thereby increasing the eccentricity, further improving gas-liquid separation efficiency, and reducing the diameter of the cylinder. This will further improve the evaporation heat transfer coefficient inside the secondary heat exchanger and reduce the pressure drop on the refrigerant side, further improving the efficiency of the air conditioner.

[0023] Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will be given in part in the following description and will become apparent from the following description or learned through practice of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1 is a front view of a first gas-liquid separator according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a right side view of the first gas-liquid separator according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0027] Figure 3 is a top view of a first gas-liquid separator according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0028] Figure 4 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a heat exchange system according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0029] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Enlarged view of point A in the middle.

[0030] Reference numerals:

[0031] 100. Heat exchange system;

[0032] 1. Compressor; 11. Exhaust port; 12. Return air port;

[0033] 2. Indoor heat exchanger; 21. Indoor sub-heat exchanger;

[0034] 3. Outdoor heat exchanger; 31. Primary heat exchanger; 311. First heat exchange path; 32. Secondary heat exchanger; 321. Second heat exchange path;

[0035] 4. Four-way valve; 41. First port; 42. Second port; 43. Third port; 44. Fourth port;

[0036] 5. Gas-liquid separator; 51. Gas outlet; 52. First inlet and outlet; 53. Second inlet and outlet; 54. First pipeline; 55. Second pipeline; 56. Third pipeline; 57. Cylinder;

[0037] 6. Gas-liquid separation device;

[0038] 7. Manifold;

[0039] 81. Control valve; 82. First diverter; 83. Second diverter;

[0040] 91. First sub-electronic expansion valve; 92. Second sub-electronic expansion valve. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The following describes embodiments of the present invention in detail. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are intended only to explain the present invention and are not to be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0042] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "transverse", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" and the like indicate orientations or positional relationships based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on the present invention. In addition, features defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of such features. In the description of the present invention, unless otherwise specified, "multiple" means two or more.

[0043] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; mechanical connections, electrical connections; direct connections, indirect connections through an intermediate medium, and internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0044] The gas-liquid separator 5 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] like Figure 1-Figure 3 As shown, the gas-liquid separator 5 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cylinder 57. A separation space is defined in the cylinder 57. The cylinder 57 has a gas outlet 51, a first inlet and outlet 52, and a second inlet and outlet 53 communicating with the separation space. The second inlet and outlet 53 are located on the side wall of the cylinder 57 and are spaced apart along the axial direction of the cylinder 57.

[0046] It can be understood that the gas-liquid mixture (for example, refrigerant) enters the separation space through the second inlet and outlet 53, and the heavier liquid component is thrown toward the wall of the cylinder 57 by the action of centrifugal force and flows down along the wall and out of the first inlet and outlet 52, while the lighter gas component gradually moves to the central area and rises and flows out of the gas outlet 51, thereby achieving effective separation of the gas-liquid mixture.

[0047] By locating multiple second inlets and outlets 53 on the sidewall of the cylinder 57, and by spacing multiple second inlets and outlets 53 along the axial direction of the cylinder 57, the gas-liquid mixture enters the separation space from the multiple second inlets and outlets 53, respectively. This allows the gas-liquid mixture to enter the separation space in a more dispersed and uniform manner, thereby improving the separation efficiency and reducing eddy currents and turbulence. At the same time, when achieving a constant flow rate of the gas-liquid mixture entering the separation space, compared to the prior art of providing a single second inlet and outlet 53, the present application locates multiple second inlets and outlets 53 on the sidewall of the cylinder 57, thereby reducing the aperture of the second inlet and outlet 53, thereby increasing the eccentricity, further improving the gas-liquid separation efficiency, and reducing the diameter of the cylinder 57.

[0048] According to the gas-liquid separator 5 of the embodiment of the present utility model, a separation space is defined within the cylinder 57. The cylinder 57 has a gas outlet 51, a first inlet and outlet 52, and a second inlet and outlet 53 connected to the separation space. The second inlet and outlet 53 are located on the side wall of the cylinder 57 and are multiple. The multiple second inlet and outlet 53 are spaced apart along the axial direction of the cylinder 57 so that the gas-liquid mixture enters the separation space from the multiple second inlet and outlet 53 respectively, thereby allowing the gas-liquid mixture to enter the separation space in a more dispersed and uniform manner, thereby improving the separation efficiency and reducing eddy currents and turbulence. At the same time, by reducing the aperture of the second inlet and outlet 53, the eccentricity is increased, further improving the gas-liquid separation efficiency, and the diameter of the cylinder 57 can be reduced.

[0049] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 1-Figure 3 As shown, the gas outlet 51 and the first inlet and outlet 52 are respectively located at the two end surfaces in the axial direction of the cylinder 57. It can be understood that since the multiple second inlets and outlets 53 are spaced apart along the axial direction of the cylinder 57, by arranging the gas outlet 51 and the first inlet and outlet 52 respectively at the two end surfaces in the axial direction of the cylinder 57, the residence time of the gas-liquid mixture in the separation space can be extended, which is conducive to more complete gas-liquid separation and improves the gas-liquid separation effect.

[0050] Specifically, in actual application, the gas outlet 51 of the gas-liquid separator 5 is located below the first inlet and outlet 52, so that the liquid will naturally flow downward due to gravity, while the gas tends to move upward, thereby making full use of gravity and accelerating the gas-liquid separation process.

[0051] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 1-Figure 3 As shown, the gas-liquid separator 5 further includes a first pipeline 54, one end of which is connected to the gas outlet 51. The end of the first pipeline 54 connected to the gas outlet 51 extends into the cylinder 57 or is flush with the outer end surface of the cylinder 57. It is understood that the gas separated in the separation space enters the first pipeline 54 through the gas outlet 51 and is then discharged from the first pipeline 54.

[0052] Thus, the end of the first conduit 54 connected to the gas outlet 51 extends into the cylinder 57, increasing the time the gas remains in the separation space before being discharged, thereby increasing the contact area and time between the gas and the liquid, helping to more thoroughly separate the gas from the liquid, reducing the amount of liquid carried by the gas during discharge, and improving the gas-liquid separation efficiency. Alternatively, the end of the first conduit 54 connected to the gas outlet 51 can be flush with the outer end surface of the cylinder 57, simplifying the structure of the gas-liquid separator 5, reducing complexity, facilitating the assembly and disassembly of the first conduit 54, and improving efficiency.

[0053] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 1-Figure 3 As shown, the gas-liquid separator 5 also includes a second pipeline 55, one end of which is connected to the first inlet and outlet 52, wherein the end of the second pipeline 55 connected to the first inlet and outlet 52 is flush with the end surface of the cylinder 57. It can be understood that the liquid separated in the separation space enters the second pipeline 55 through the first inlet and outlet 52 and is discharged from the second pipeline 55. Thus, the end of the second pipeline 55 connected to the first inlet and outlet 52 is flush with the end surface of the cylinder 57, which effectively prevents the accumulation of liquid between the second pipeline 55 and the end surface of the cylinder 57, thereby preventing the residual liquid in the separation space from reducing the gas-liquid separation efficiency and improving the liquid discharge efficiency. At the same time, the structure of the gas-liquid separator 5 is simplified, the complexity is reduced, the disassembly and assembly of the second pipeline 55 is facilitated, and the efficiency is improved.

[0054] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 1-Figure 3 As shown, the barrel 57 is a cylindrical barrel 57, and the gas-liquid separator 5 also includes a third pipeline 56. The third pipeline 56 is a plurality of third pipelines 56 corresponding one-to-one to the plurality of second inlets and outlets 53. One end of each of the plurality of third pipelines 56 is connected to each of the plurality of second inlets and outlets 53, and the third pipeline 56 extends along a tangent to the barrel 57. It can be understood that the gas-liquid mixture enters the plurality of third pipelines 56 and enters the separation space from the plurality of second inlets and outlets 53 corresponding to the plurality of third pipelines 56. Thus, the extension of the third pipeline 56 along the tangent of the barrel 57 helps to reduce the direct impact of the gas-liquid mixture on the inner wall of the separation space, thereby reducing turbulence and eddy currents, making the flow of the gas-liquid mixture in the separation space smoother, and improving the gas-liquid separation efficiency. At the same time, because the gas and liquid generate different centrifugal forces during the rotation process, thereby being pushed to different positions of the barrel 57, the vortex naturally formed in the separation space by the gas-liquid mixture entering through the tangent can further improve the efficiency of gas-liquid separation.

[0055] The heat exchange system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described below.

[0056] According to the heat exchange system 100 of the embodiment of the present invention, Figure 1-Figure 5As shown, it includes a compressor 1, an indoor heat exchanger 2, an outdoor heat exchanger 3, a four-way valve 4 and a gas-liquid separator 5. Among them, the compressor 1 has an exhaust port 11 and a return air port 12, the outdoor heat exchanger 3 includes a primary heat exchanger 31 and a secondary heat exchanger 32, the primary heat exchanger 31 includes a plurality of first heat exchange paths 311, one end of each of the plurality of first heat exchange paths 311 is connected to one end of the indoor heat exchanger 2, and the other end is respectively connected to a plurality of second inlets and outlets 53, the secondary heat exchanger 32 includes a second heat exchange path 321, one end of the second heat exchange path 321 is connected to the first inlet and outlet 52, the four-way valve 4 includes a first inlet 41, a second port 42, a third port 43 and a fourth port 44, the first port 41 is connected to the exhaust port 11, the second port 42 is connected to the end of the indoor heat exchanger 2 away from the primary heat exchanger 31, the third port 43 is connected to the end of the second heat exchange path 321 away from the first inlet and outlet 52 and the gas outlet 51, the fourth port 44 is connected to the return air port 12, the first port 41 is connected to one of the second port 42 and the third port 43, and the fourth port 44 is connected to the other of the second port 42 and the third port 43.

[0057] It can be understood that in the heating mode, the first port 41 is connected to the second port 42, and the third port 43 is connected to the fourth port 44. The refrigerant flows from the exhaust port 11 of the compressor 1 through the first port 41 into the indoor heat exchanger 2 and releases heat. Then, the refrigerant flows from the indoor heat exchanger 2 to the multiple first heat exchange paths 311 of the first heat exchanger and absorbs heat and evaporates. Part of the refrigerant evaporates, and the refrigerant dryness increases. The refrigerant flows from the multiple first heat exchange paths 311 through the multiple second inlets and outlets 53 into the separation space of the gas-liquid separator 5 to separate the refrigerant into gas and liquid, so that the separated gas-phase refrigerant flows from the gas outlet 51 to the third port 43, and the separated liquid-phase refrigerant flows from the first inlet and outlet 52 to the second heat exchange path 321 and absorbs heat and evaporates. Then, the refrigerant flows out from the second heat exchange path 321 and merges with the gas-phase refrigerant flowing out of the gas outlet 51 and flows to the third port 43 together. The refrigerant then flows through the third port 43 to the fourth port 44 and returns to the return air port 12 of the compressor 1.

[0058] The gas-liquid separator 5 is connected in series between the primary heat exchanger 31 and the secondary heat exchanger 32 so that the gas-phase refrigerant separated by the gas-liquid separator 5 flows out through the gas outlet 51, thereby reducing the area of ​​the mist flow region inside the secondary heat exchanger 32, improving the evaporation heat transfer coefficient inside the secondary heat exchanger 32 and reducing the refrigerant side pressure drop, thereby improving the efficiency of the heat exchange system 100.

[0059] At the same time, by having multiple second inlets and outlets 53 located on the sidewall of the cylinder 57, and by spacing the multiple second inlets and outlets 53 along the axial direction of the cylinder 57, the gas-liquid mixture enters the separation space from the multiple second inlets and outlets 53, respectively. This allows the gas-liquid mixture to enter the separation space in a more dispersed and uniform manner, thereby improving separation efficiency and reducing eddy currents and turbulence. Furthermore, while maintaining the flow rate of the gas-liquid mixture entering the separation space, by having multiple second inlets and outlets 53 located on the sidewall of the cylinder 57, the aperture of the second inlets and outlets 53 is reduced, thereby increasing the eccentricity, further improving gas-liquid separation efficiency, and reducing the diameter of the cylinder 57. This further improves the evaporation heat transfer coefficient within the secondary heat exchanger 32 and reduces the pressure drop on the refrigerant side, further improving the efficiency of the heat exchange system 100.

[0060] In addition, by connecting one end of the plurality of first heat exchange paths 311 to the plurality of second inlets and outlets 53, the refrigerant flows directly from the first heat exchange paths 311 through the second inlets and outlets 53 into the separation space of the gas-liquid separator 5, and the connecting pipe for connecting the first heat exchange paths 311 and the gas-liquid separator 5 is omitted, thereby reducing the volume of the heat exchange system 100 and reducing the pressure loss between the primary heat exchanger 31 and the secondary heat exchanger 32, thereby improving the efficiency of the heat exchange system 100. It should be noted that the gas-liquid separator 5 of the present application is located on the side wall of the cylinder 57 and is multiple, and the plurality of second inlets and outlets 53 are spaced apart along the axial direction of the cylinder 57, so that the refrigerant flows directly from the plurality of first heat exchange paths 311 through the plurality of second inlets and outlets 53 into the separation space of the gas-liquid separator 5.

[0061] It should be noted that during the actual application of the heat exchange system 100, due to different environmental factors, the gas-liquid separator 5 may not be able to completely separate the gas-phase refrigerant and the liquid-phase refrigerant, and part of the gas-phase refrigerant may be mixed with the liquid-phase refrigerant and flow from the first inlet and outlet 52 to the secondary heat exchanger 32.

[0062] In the cooling mode, the first port 41 is connected to the third port 43, and the second port 42 is connected to the fourth port 44. The gas-liquid separator 5 is equivalent to a straight-through pipe. Specifically, the refrigerant flows from the exhaust port 11 of the compressor 1 through the first port 41 and the third port 43 into the second heat exchange flow path 321 to condense and release heat. After that, the refrigerant flows from multiple second heat exchange flow paths 321 through the first inlet and outlet 52 into the separation space of the gas-liquid separator 5. After that, the refrigerant flows from the multiple second inlets and outlets 53 to the multiple first heat exchange flow paths 311 to condense and release heat. After that, the refrigerant flows from the multiple first heat exchange flow paths 311 to the indoor heat exchanger 2 to absorb heat and evaporate. After that, the refrigerant flows through the second port 42 to the fourth port 44 and returns to the return air port 12 of the compressor 1.

[0063] Furthermore, a gas-liquid separator 6 is provided between the fourth port 44 and the return air port 12, for separating the gaseous refrigerant and allowing it to flow into the compressor 1 through the return air port 12. This arrangement prevents the liquid refrigerant from impacting the internal components of the compressor 1, thereby extending the service life of the compressor 1 and reducing maintenance and replacement costs.

[0064] According to the heat exchange system 100 of the embodiment of the present invention, a gas-liquid separator 5 is provided, the compressor 1 has an exhaust port 11 and a return air port 12, the outdoor heat exchanger 3 includes a first-stage heat exchanger 31 and a second-stage heat exchanger 32, the first-stage heat exchanger 31 includes a plurality of first heat exchange flow paths 311, one end of each of the plurality of first heat exchange flow paths 311 is connected to one end of the indoor heat exchanger 2, and the other end is respectively connected to a plurality of second inlets and outlets 53, the second-stage heat exchanger 32 includes a second heat exchange flow path 321, one end of the second heat exchange flow path 321 is connected to the first inlet and outlet 52, the four-way valve 4 includes a first The first port 41, the second port 42, the third port 43 and the fourth port 44, the first port 41 is connected to the exhaust port 11, the second port 42 is connected to the end of the indoor heat exchanger 2 away from the first heat exchanger 31, the third port 43 is connected to the end of the second heat exchange path 321 away from the first inlet and outlet 52 and the gas outlet 51, the fourth port 44 is connected to the return air port 12, and the first port 41 is connected to one of the second port 42 and the third port 43, and the fourth port 44 is connected to the other of the second port 42 and the third port 43, so as to realize the cooling mode and the refrigeration mode of the heat exchange system 100.

[0065] At the same time, the gas-liquid separator 5 is connected in series between the primary heat exchanger 31 and the secondary heat exchanger 32 so that the gas-phase refrigerant separated by the gas-liquid separator 5 flows out through the gas outlet 51. This reduces the area of ​​the mist flow region within the secondary heat exchanger 32, improves the evaporation heat transfer coefficient within the secondary heat exchanger 32, reduces the refrigerant-side pressure drop, and improves the efficiency of the heat exchange system 100. Furthermore, by having multiple second inlets and outlets 53 located on the sidewall of the cylinder 57 and spaced apart along the axial direction of the cylinder 57, the gas-liquid mixture enters the separation space through the multiple second inlets and outlets 53, respectively. This allows the gas-liquid mixture to enter the separation space in a more dispersed and uniform manner, thereby improving separation efficiency and reducing eddy currents and turbulence. Furthermore, while maintaining a constant flow rate of the gas-liquid mixture entering the separation space, the multiple second inlets and outlets 53 located on the sidewall of the cylinder 57 reduce the aperture of the second inlets and outlets 53, thereby increasing the eccentricity, further improving gas-liquid separation efficiency, and reducing the diameter of the cylinder 57. This further improves the evaporation heat transfer coefficient inside the secondary heat exchanger 32 and reduces the pressure drop on the refrigerant side, thereby further improving the efficiency of the heat exchange system 100.

[0066] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the heat exchange system 100 further includes a control valve 81. The control valve 81 is disposed between the gas outlet 51 and the third port 43. The control valve 81 only allows refrigerant to flow from the gas outlet 51 to the third port 43. Thus, through this arrangement, in heating mode, the gaseous refrigerant separated by the gas-liquid separator 5 can flow from the gas outlet 51 to the third port 43 after merging with the refrigerant flowing out of the secondary heat exchanger 32. In cooling mode, the refrigerant discharged from the exhaust port 11 of the compressor 1 can only flow into the secondary heat exchanger 32 through the first port 41, thereby improving the reliability of the heat exchange system 100.

[0067] Optionally, the control valve 81 is a one-way valve, a solenoid valve, or an electronic expansion valve, so that the control valve 81 only allows the refrigerant to flow from the gas outlet 51 to the third port 43 .

[0068] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the heat exchange system 100 further includes a first flow divider 82. The multiple first heat exchange paths 311 and the indoor heat exchanger 2 are connected via the first flow divider 82. Thus, in heating mode, this arrangement allows the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 2 to flow toward the first flow divider 82, and after being distributed by the first flow divider 82, it flows into the multiple first heat exchange paths 311. In cooling mode, this arrangement allows the refrigerant in the multiple first heat exchange paths 311 to flow toward the first flow divider 82, and after being collected by the first flow divider 82, it flows into the indoor heat exchanger 2. Thus, the first flow divider 82 ensures that the refrigerant is evenly distributed among the multiple first heat exchange paths 311, preventing the refrigerant from accumulating in one first heat exchange path 311 while being insufficient in other first heat exchange paths 311. This ensures smoother refrigerant flow, reduces flow resistance and pressure drop, and thus improves heat exchange efficiency.

[0069] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, there are multiple second heat exchange paths 321. Thus, in the heating mode, through such an arrangement, the liquid-phase refrigerant flowing out of the first inlet and outlet 52 flows into the multiple second heat exchange paths 321 respectively to absorb heat and evaporate. After that, the refrigerant flows out of the multiple second heat exchange paths 321 and merges with the gas-phase refrigerant flowing out of the gas outlet 51 and then flows together to the third port 43. In the cooling mode, through such an arrangement, the multiple second heat exchange paths 321 flow into the separation space of the gas-liquid separator 5 through the first inlet and outlet 52. Thus, through the multiple second heat exchange paths 321, the refrigerant is more evenly distributed in the second heat exchanger, the flow path is optimized, and the heat exchange area is more effectively utilized, local overheating or overcooling phenomena are reduced, and the flow resistance and pressure drop are reduced, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the second heat exchanger.

[0070] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the heat exchange system 100 further includes a second flow divider 83. The plurality of second heat exchange paths 321 are connected to the first inlet and outlet 52 via the second flow divider 83. Thus, in heating mode, this arrangement allows the liquid refrigerant flowing out of the first inlet and outlet 52 to flow toward the second flow divider 83, where it is distributed and then flows into the plurality of second heat exchange paths 321. In cooling mode, this arrangement allows the refrigerant flowing out of the plurality of second heat exchange paths 321 to flow toward the second flow divider 83, where it is combined and then flows into the separation space of the gas-liquid separator 5 through the first inlet and outlet 52. Thus, the second flow divider 83 ensures that the refrigerant is evenly distributed among the plurality of second heat exchange paths 321, preventing refrigerant from accumulating in one second heat exchange path 321 while being insufficient in other second heat exchange paths 321. This ensures smoother refrigerant flow, reduces flow resistance and pressure drop, and thus improves heat exchange efficiency.

[0071] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the heat exchange system 100 also includes a manifold 7. One axial end of the manifold 7 is connected to the third port 43, and a plurality of second heat exchange paths 321 are connected to the peripheral wall of the manifold 7 and are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the manifold 7. Thus, in the heating mode, such an arrangement allows the refrigerant flowing out of the plurality of second heat exchange paths 321 to flow into the manifold 7, and after merging through the manifold 7 and merging with the gas-phase refrigerant flowing out of the gas outlet 51, they flow together to the third port 43. In the cooling mode, such an arrangement allows the refrigerant discharged from the exhaust port 11 of the compressor 1 to flow into the manifold 7 through the first port 41 and the third port 43, and after being distributed by the manifold 7, flow to the plurality of second heat exchange paths 321. Therefore, the refrigerant is evenly distributed in multiple second heat exchange flow paths 321 through the manifold 7, avoiding the situation where the refrigerant accumulates in a certain second heat exchange flow path 321 and is insufficient in other second heat exchange flow paths 321, thereby making the flow of the refrigerant smoother, reducing the flow resistance and pressure drop, and thus improving the heat exchange efficiency.

[0072] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the indoor heat exchanger 2 includes multiple indoor sub-heat exchangers 21 arranged in parallel. This arrangement evenly distributes the refrigerant among the multiple indoor sub-heat exchangers, preventing overload or inefficient operation of the indoor sub-heat exchangers 21. It also significantly increases the total heat exchange area of ​​the indoor heat exchanger 2, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency.

[0073] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the multiple first heat exchange paths 311 correspond one-to-one with the multiple second inlets and outlets 53, and one end of the first heat exchange path 311 is connected to the corresponding second inlet and outlet 53. Thus, this arrangement achieves a one-to-one correspondence between the multiple first heat exchange paths 311 and the multiple second inlets and outlets 53, allowing refrigerant to flow between the first heat exchange paths 311 and the corresponding second inlets and outlets 53. Alternatively, the number of first heat exchange paths 311 is greater than the number of second inlets and outlets 53, and at least one second inlet and outlet 53 is connected to the multiple first heat exchange paths 311. It is understood that when the diameter of the first heat exchange path 311 is small, multiple first heat exchange paths 311 can be connected to at least one second inlet and outlet 53, reducing the number of second inlets and outlets 53 and allowing refrigerant to flow between the first heat exchange paths 311 and the corresponding second inlets and outlets 53. Thus, this arrangement adapts to first heat exchange paths 311 with different apertures, improving the versatility of the heat exchange system 100.

[0074] In some embodiments, as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the heat exchange system 100 also includes a first sub-electronic expansion valve 91 and a second sub-electronic expansion valve 92. In the heating mode, the first sub-electronic expansion valve 91 is used to regulate the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing from the indoor heat exchanger 2 to the primary heat exchanger 31; in the cooling mode, the second sub-electronic expansion valve 92 is used to regulate the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing from the primary heat exchanger 31 to the indoor heat exchanger 2.

[0075] Thus, in heating mode, the refrigerant flowing to the primary heat exchanger 31 via the first sub-electronic expansion valve 91 is a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant, thereby ensuring the heat exchange efficiency of the primary heat exchanger 31. In cooling mode, the refrigerant flowing to the indoor heat exchanger 2 via the second sub-electronic expansion valve 92 is a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant, thereby ensuring the heat exchange efficiency of the indoor heat exchanger 2.

[0076] Furthermore, in the cooling mode, the first sub-electronic expansion valve 91 is in a fully open state, so that the refrigerant condensed by the outdoor heat exchanger 3 flows to the second sub-electronic expansion valve 92 through the first sub-electronic expansion valve 91 in the fully open state, and after throttling by the second sub-electronic expansion valve 92, the low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant is obtained and enters the indoor heat exchanger 2.

[0077] The air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present invention is described below.

[0078] An air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a heat exchange system 100 .

[0079] According to the air conditioner of the embodiment of the present invention, a heat exchange system 100 is provided to realize the cooling mode and the refrigeration mode of the air conditioner. At the same time, the gas-liquid separator 5 is connected in series between the primary heat exchanger 31 and the secondary heat exchanger 32 so that the gas-phase refrigerant separated by the gas-liquid separator 5 flows out through the gas outlet 51, thereby reducing the area of ​​the mist flow region inside the secondary heat exchanger 32, improving the evaporation heat transfer coefficient inside the secondary heat exchanger 32 and reducing the refrigerant side pressure drop, thereby improving the efficiency of the air conditioner. In addition, the second inlet and outlet 53 are located on the side wall of the cylinder 57 and are multiple, and the multiple second inlet and outlet 53 are spaced apart along the axial direction of the cylinder 57, so that the gas-liquid mixture enters the separation space respectively from the multiple second inlet and outlet 53, so that the gas-liquid mixture enters the separation space in a more dispersed and uniform manner, thereby improving the separation efficiency and reducing eddy currents and turbulence. Furthermore, while maintaining the flow rate of the gas-liquid mixture entering the separation space, the second inlet and outlet 53 is located on the side wall of the cylinder 57 and is provided in multiple locations, thereby reducing the aperture of the second inlet and outlet 53 and increasing the eccentricity, further improving the gas-liquid separation efficiency and reducing the diameter of the cylinder 57. This further improves the evaporation heat transfer coefficient inside the secondary heat exchanger 32 and reduces the pressure drop on the refrigerant side, further improving the efficiency of the air conditioner.

[0080] Other components of the air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present invention, such as the indoor heat exchanger 2, the outdoor heat exchanger 3, etc. and their operations are well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0081] Throughout this specification, reference to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiments," "examples," "specific examples," or "some examples" means that the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in conjunction with that embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative use of the above terms does 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 any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0082] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes, modifications, substitutions and variations may be made to the embodiments without departing from the principles and purpose of the present invention, and that the scope of the present invention is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A gas-liquid separator, characterized in that: include: A cylinder defines a separation space inside the cylinder, and the cylinder has a gas outlet, a first inlet and a second inlet connected to the separation space. The second inlet and the second inlet are located on the side wall of the cylinder and are multiple, and the multiple second inlets and the second inlets are spaced apart along the axial direction of the cylinder.

2. The gas-liquid separator according to claim 1, characterized in that The gas outlet and the first inlet and outlet are respectively located at two end surfaces of the cylinder in the axial direction.

3. The gas-liquid separator according to claim 2, characterized in that Also includes: A first pipeline, one end of which is connected to the gas outlet, wherein the end of the first pipeline connected to the gas outlet extends into the cylinder or is flush with the outer end surface of the cylinder.

4. The gas-liquid separator according to claim 2, characterized in that Also includes: A second pipeline, one end of the second pipeline is connected to the first inlet and outlet, wherein the end of the second pipeline connected to the first inlet and outlet is flush with the end surface of the cylinder.

5. The gas-liquid separator according to claim 1, characterized in that The cylinder is a cylindrical cylinder, and the gas-liquid separator further includes: The third pipeline is a plurality of third pipelines corresponding one-to-one to the plurality of second inlets and outlets, one end of the plurality of third pipelines is respectively connected to the plurality of second inlets and outlets, and the third pipeline extends along the tangent of the cylinder.

6. A heat exchange system, characterized in that: include: A compressor having an exhaust port and an air return port; Indoor heat exchanger; The gas-liquid separator according to any one of claims 1 to 5; an outdoor heat exchanger, the outdoor heat exchanger comprising a primary heat exchanger and a secondary heat exchanger, the primary heat exchanger comprising a plurality of first heat exchange flow paths, one end of each of the plurality of first heat exchange flow paths being connected to one end of the indoor heat exchanger, and the other end of each of the plurality of first heat exchange flow paths being respectively connected to a plurality of second inlets and outlets, the secondary heat exchanger comprising a second heat exchange flow path, one end of the second heat exchange flow path being connected to the first inlet and outlet; A four-way valve, the four-way valve includes a first port, a second port, a third port and a fourth port, the first port is connected to the exhaust port, the second port is connected to the end of the indoor heat exchanger away from the primary heat exchanger, the third port is connected to the end of the second heat exchange path away from the first inlet and outlet and the gas outlet, the fourth port is connected to the return air port, the first port is connected to one of the second port and the third port, and the fourth port is connected to the other of the second port and the third port.

7. The heat exchange system according to claim 6, characterized in that: Also includes: A control valve is provided between the gas outlet and the third port, and the control valve only allows the refrigerant to flow from the gas outlet to the third port.

8. The heat exchange system according to claim 6, characterized in that: Also includes: A first flow divider is provided, and the plurality of first heat exchange paths and the indoor heat exchanger are connected via the first flow divider.

9. The heat exchange system according to claim 6, characterized in that: There are multiple second heat exchange paths, and the heat exchange system further includes: A second flow divider, wherein the plurality of second heat exchange paths are connected to the first inlet and outlet via the second flow divider.

10. The heat exchange system according to claim 9, characterized in that: Also includes: A manifold, one axial end of the manifold is connected to the third port, and a plurality of the second heat exchange channels are connected to the peripheral wall of the manifold and are spaced apart along the axial direction of the manifold.

11. The heat exchange system according to claim 6, characterized in that: The indoor heat exchanger includes a plurality of indoor sub-heat exchangers arranged in parallel.

12. The heat exchange system according to claim 6, characterized in that: The plurality of first heat exchange flow paths correspond one-to-one to the plurality of second inlets and outlets, and one end of the first heat exchange flow path is connected to the corresponding second inlet and outlet; or, the number of the first heat exchange flow paths is greater than the number of the second inlet and outlet, and at least one of the second inlet and outlet is connected to the plurality of the first heat exchange flow paths.

13. An air conditioner, characterized in that: The heat exchange system comprises the heat exchange system according to any one of claims 6 to 12.

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