Gas-liquid separator, heat exchange system and air conditioner

Abstract

The utility model discloses a gas-liquid separator, heat exchange system and air conditioner, gas-liquid separator includes shell, the shell is provided with first access, second access and air outlet, the air outlet is provided in the top wall of shell, first access and second access are both provided close to the bottom wall of shell, and the first access and second access are both provided close to the bottom wall of shell. The distance between the first inlet and outlet and the bottom wall of the shell is smaller than the distance between the second inlet and outlet and the bottom wall of the shell. According to the gas-liquid separator disclosed by the utility model, a gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters the gas-liquid separator through the second inlet and outlet, and a gas-state heat exchange medium is separated from a liquid-state heat exchange medium, so that the gas-liquid separation effect of the gas-liquid separator is ensured; in the heating mode, the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid mixed state is prevented from directly flowing out of the gas-liquid separator from the first inlet and outlet after entering the gas-liquid separator, the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid mixed state is prevented from directly entering the first heat exchange module of the first heat exchanger, and the heat exchange effect of the outdoor heat exchanger is prevented from being affected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model mainly relates to the field of air handling equipment technology, and in particular to a gas-liquid separator, a heat exchange system and an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] In existing technologies, outdoor heat exchangers include two heat exchangers. A gas-liquid separator is installed between the two heat exchangers in the heat exchange system to separate the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium from the upstream heat exchanger. However, the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium may directly enter the downstream heat exchanger, affecting the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger. Utility Model Content

[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 gas-liquid separator that prevents the heat exchange medium in a gas-liquid mixed state from directly entering the first heat exchange module through the first inlet and outlet, thereby avoiding affecting the heat exchange effect of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0004] This utility model also proposes a heat exchange system, which includes the gas-liquid separator described above.

[0005] This utility model also proposes an air conditioner, which includes the heat exchange system described above.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the gas-liquid separator includes a housing, on which a first inlet, a second inlet, and an outlet are provided. The outlet is located on the top wall of the housing, and the first inlet and the second inlet are both located near the bottom wall of the housing. The distance between the first inlet and the bottom wall of the housing is less than the distance between the second inlet and the bottom wall of the housing.

[0007] According to the gas-liquid separator of this utility model embodiment, by setting the gas outlet on the top wall of the shell, and setting the first inlet and the second inlet near the bottom wall of the shell, the first inlet and the second inlet are closer to the bottom wall of the shell than the top wall of the shell. The gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters the gas-liquid separator through the second inlet and enters tangentially along the inner wall of the shell of the gas-liquid separator, forming a swirling flow on the inner wall of the shell of the gas-liquid separator, so as to separate the gaseous heat exchange medium and the liquid heat exchange medium, ensuring the gas-liquid separation effect of the gas-liquid separator. In the heating mode, the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium is prevented from entering the gas-liquid separator and flowing directly out of the gas-liquid separator from the first inlet and the first heat exchange module is prevented from entering the gas-liquid separator directly through the first inlet and the first inlet, so as to avoid affecting the heat exchange effect of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0008] In some embodiments of this utility model, the diameter of the first inlet / outlet is D1, and the diameter of the second inlet / outlet is D2, and satisfies: D1 <D2。

[0009] In some embodiments of this utility model, the diameter of the air outlet is D3, and satisfies: D3≤D2.

[0010] In some embodiments of this utility model, both the first inlet and the second inlet face one side of the housing, both extend horizontally, and the extension direction of the first inlet and the extension direction of the second inlet are parallel.

[0011] In some embodiments of this utility model, the distance between the second inlet / outlet and the bottom wall of the housing is less than the distance between the second inlet / outlet and the top wall of the housing.

[0012] In some embodiments of this utility model, the height of the shell is 170mm-220mm, and the diameter of the shell is 80mm-100mm; and / or, the distance between the center of the first inlet / outlet and the center of the shell is 20mm-30mm, and the distance between the center of the second inlet / outlet and the center of the shell is 20mm-30mm; and / or, the distance between the center of the first inlet / outlet and the bottom wall of the shell is 35mm-75mm; and / or, the vertical distance between the center of the second inlet / outlet and the center of the first inlet / outlet is 15mm-25mm.

[0013] The heat exchange system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a compressor, a four-way valve, an indoor heat exchanger, an outdoor heat exchanger, and the aforementioned gas-liquid separator. The compressor has an exhaust port and a return port. The four-way valve has a first port, a second port, a third port, and a fourth port. The first port is connected to one of the second and third ports, and the fourth port is connected to the other of the second and third ports. The first port is connected to the exhaust port, and the fourth port is connected to the return port. One end of the indoor heat exchanger is connected to the third port. The outdoor heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange module and a second heat exchange module. The first heat exchange module has two ends, a first end and a second end, with the first end connected to the second port. The second heat exchange module has two ends, a third end and a fourth end, with the fourth end connected to the other end of the indoor heat exchanger. The first inlet / outlet is connected to the second end, the second inlet / outlet is connected to the third end, and the outlet is connected to the second port.

[0014] According to the heat exchange system of this utility model embodiment, by setting the air outlet on the top wall of the shell, and setting the first inlet and the second inlet near the bottom wall of the shell, the first inlet and the second inlet are closer to the bottom wall of the shell than the top wall of the shell. The gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters the gas-liquid separator through the second inlet. The gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters tangentially along the inner wall of the shell of the gas-liquid separator, forming a swirling flow on the inner wall of the shell of the gas-liquid separator, so as to separate the gas-liquid heat exchange medium and the liquid heat exchange medium, ensuring the gas-liquid separation effect of the gas-liquid separator. In the heating mode, the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium is prevented from entering the gas-liquid separator and flowing directly out of the gas-liquid separator from the first inlet, and the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium is prevented from directly entering the first heat exchange module through the first inlet, so as to avoid affecting the heat exchange effect of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0015] In some embodiments of this utility model, a first flow path is connected between the air outlet and the second port, and a first one-way valve is provided on the first flow path. The first one-way valve only allows the heat exchange medium to flow from the air outlet to the second port.

[0016] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first heat exchange module includes a plurality of parallel first heat exchange flow paths; and / or, the second heat exchange module includes a plurality of parallel second heat exchange flow paths.

[0017] In some embodiments of this utility model, the heat exchange system further includes a first liquid distribution device, one end of which is connected to the first inlet and outlet, and the other end of which is connected to multiple first heat exchange flow paths.

[0018] In some embodiments of this utility model, the heat exchange system further includes a second liquid distribution device, one end of which is connected to the second inlet and outlet, and the other end of which is connected to multiple second heat exchange flow paths.

[0019] In some embodiments of this utility model, the cross-sections of the plurality of first heat exchange flow paths are N-shaped and / or inverted N-shaped; the cross-sections of the plurality of second heat exchange flow paths are N-shaped and / or U-shaped; wherein, the cross-sections are perpendicular to the axial direction of the heat exchange tube.

[0020] In some embodiments of this utility model, a throttling device is provided between the fourth end and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0021] The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes the heat exchange system described above.

[0022] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the air conditioner has an air outlet located on the top wall of the casing, and both the first inlet and the second inlet are located near the bottom wall of the casing. This makes the first inlet and the second inlet closer to the bottom wall of the casing than the top wall. The gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters the gas-liquid separator through the second inlet. The gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters tangentially along the inner wall of the gas-liquid separator casing, forming a swirling flow on the inner wall of the gas-liquid separator casing, thus separating the gaseous heat exchange medium from the liquid heat exchange medium. This ensures the gas-liquid separation effect of the gas-liquid separator. In heating mode, the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium is prevented from directly flowing out of the gas-liquid separator through the first inlet after entering the gas-liquid separator, and from directly entering the first heat exchange module through the first inlet, thus avoiding affecting the heat exchange effect of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0023] Additional aspects and advantages of this 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

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

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

[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration mode of the heat exchange system according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the heating mode of the heat exchange system according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a side view of the gas-liquid separator of the heat exchange system according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0029] Figure label:

[0030] 100. Heat exchange system;

[0031] 1. Gas-liquid separator; 11. First inlet / outlet; 12. Second inlet / outlet; 13. Gas outlet; 14. Housing;

[0032] 2. Compressor; 21. Exhaust port; 22. Return port;

[0033] 3. Four-way valve; 31. First port; 32. Second port; 33. Third port; 34. Fourth port;

[0034] 4. Indoor heat exchanger;

[0035] 5. Outdoor heat exchanger; 51. First heat exchange module; 511. First end; 512. Second end; 513. First heat exchange flow path; 52. Second heat exchange module; 521. Third end; 522. Fourth end; 523. Second heat exchange flow path;

[0036] 6. First flow path; 62. First check valve;

[0037] 7. First liquid separator; 8. Throttling device; 9. Liquid storage tank. Detailed Implementation

[0038] The embodiments of this utility model 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 this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model.

[0039] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "transverse," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing this utility model 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 this utility model. Furthermore, features defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0040] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" 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 utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0041] The gas-liquid separator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] like Figure 1 As shown, the gas-liquid separator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a housing 14.

[0043] Specifically, the gas-liquid separator 1 is used in the heat exchange system 100, which includes an outdoor heat exchanger 5. The outdoor heat exchanger 5 includes a first heat exchange module 51 and a second heat exchange module 52. The two ends of the first heat exchange module 51 are a first end 511 and a second end 512. The two ends of the second heat exchange module 52 are a third end 521 and a fourth end 522. The housing 14 is provided with a first inlet 11, a second inlet 12 and an outlet 13. The first inlet 11 is mainly used for the entry and exit of liquid heat exchange medium, the second inlet 12 is mainly used for the entry and exit of gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium, and the outlet 13 is used for the exit of gaseous heat exchange medium.

[0044] The outlet 13 is located on the top wall of the housing 14. The second end 512 communicates with the first inlet 11, and the second inlet 12 communicates with the third end 521. Both the first inlet 11 and the second inlet 12 are located near the bottom wall of the housing 14, making them closer to the bottom wall of the housing 14 than the top wall. This facilitates the upward evaporation of the gaseous heat exchange medium and its discharge from the outlet 13 into the gas-liquid separator 1. The distance between the first inlet 11 and the bottom wall of the housing 14 is less than the distance between the second inlet 12 and the bottom wall of the housing 14. Figure 1 As shown in the vertical direction, the second inlet / outlet is located above the first inlet / outlet. This creates a certain distance between the second inlet / outlet 12 and the first inlet / outlet 11 along the direction from the top wall to the bottom wall of the housing 14. The gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters the gas-liquid separator 1 through the second inlet / outlet 12. The gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters tangentially along the inner wall of the housing 14 of the gas-liquid separator 1, forming a swirling flow on the inner wall of the housing 14 of the gas-liquid separator 1, thus separating the gaseous and liquid heat exchange medium. This ensures the gas-liquid separation effect of the gas-liquid separator 1. In heating mode, this prevents the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium from entering the gas-liquid separator 1 and then directly flowing out of the gas-liquid separator 1 through the first inlet / outlet 11, and prevents the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium from directly entering the first heat exchange module 51 through the first inlet / outlet 11, thereby avoiding affecting the heat exchange effect of the outdoor heat exchanger 5.

[0045] According to the gas-liquid separator 1 of the embodiment of the present utility model, by arranging the gas outlet 13 on the top wall of the housing 14, and both the first inlet / outlet 11 and the second inlet / outlet 12 are arranged near the bottom wall of the housing 14, so that the first inlet / outlet 11 and the second inlet / outlet 12 are closer to the bottom wall of the housing 14 relative to the top wall of the housing 14. The heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid mixed state enters the gas-liquid separator 1 through the second inlet / outlet 12, and the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid mixed state enters tangentially along the inner wall of the housing 14 of the gas-liquid separator 1, forming a swirl on the inner wall of the housing 14 of the gas-liquid separator 1, separating the gaseous heat exchange medium and the liquid heat exchange medium, ensuring the gas-liquid separation effect of the gas-liquid separator 1, and avoiding the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid mixed state directly flowing out of the gas-liquid separator 1 from the first inlet / outlet 11 after entering the gas-liquid separator 1 in the heating mode, and avoiding the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid mixed state directly entering the first heat exchange module 51 through the first inlet / outlet 11, so as not to affect the heat exchange effect of the outdoor heat exchanger 5.

[0046] In some embodiments of the present utility model, the first inlet / outlet 11 can be arranged at the lowest point of the bottom wall of the housing 14, which is convenient for the liquid heat exchange medium separated by the gas-liquid separator 1 to flow from the first inlet / outlet 11 to the first heat exchange module 51 in the heating mode, ensuring that as much liquid heat exchange medium as possible enters the outdoor heat exchanger 5 for heat exchange and ensuring the heat exchange effect of the outdoor heat exchanger 5.

[0047] In some embodiments of the present utility model, as Figure 1 shown, the diameter of the first inlet / outlet 11 is D1, and the diameter of the second inlet / outlet 12 is D2, and it satisfies: D1 < D2. It can be understood that the density of the gaseous heat exchange medium is lower than that of the liquid heat exchange medium. That is, under the same amount of heat exchange medium, the volume of the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid mixed state is larger than that of the liquid heat exchange medium. The heat exchange medium at the first inlet / outlet 11 is the liquid heat exchange medium, and the heat exchange medium at the second inlet / outlet 12 is the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid mixed state. When the diameter of the first inlet / outlet 11 is smaller than that of the second inlet / outlet 12, the cross-sectional area of the first inlet / outlet 11 is smaller than that of the second inlet / outlet 12, making the inflow and outflow speeds of the liquid heat exchange medium at the first inlet / outlet 11 and the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid mixed state at the second inlet / outlet 12 relatively balanced, increasing the pressure balance effect in the gas-liquid separator 1.

[0048] In addition, the heat exchange medium at the second inlet / outlet 12 is the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid mixed state. After the gas-liquid separation of the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid mixed state, the heat exchange medium flowing to the first inlet / outlet 11 is the liquid heat exchange medium. When the diameter of the first inlet / outlet 11 is smaller than that of the second inlet / outlet 12, the cross-sectional area of the first inlet / outlet 11 is smaller than that of the second inlet / outlet 12, making the inflow and outflow speeds of the liquid heat exchange medium at the first inlet / outlet 11 and the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid mixed state at the second inlet / outlet 12 relatively balanced, increasing the pressure balance effect in the gas-liquid separator 1.

[0049] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 1 As shown, the diameter of the outlet 13 is D3, and it satisfies: D3≤D2. It can be understood that the heat exchange medium at the second inlet / outlet 12 is a gas-liquid mixture. After gas-liquid separation, the heat exchange medium flowing to the outlet 13 is a gaseous heat exchange medium. When the diameter of the outlet 13 is less than or equal to the diameter of the second inlet / outlet 12, the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet 13 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second inlet / outlet 12. This makes the inflow and outflow velocities of the gaseous heat exchange medium at the outlet 13 and the gas-liquid mixture at the second inlet / outlet 12 more balanced, increasing the pressure balance effect within the gas-liquid separator 1.

[0050] In some embodiments of this utility model, the first inlet / outlet 11 and the second inlet / outlet 12 both face one side of the housing 14, and both extend horizontally, with the extension direction of the first inlet / outlet 11 parallel to that of the second inlet / outlet 12. It is understood that the second end 512 of the first heat exchange module 51 is connected to the first inlet / outlet 11, and the second inlet / outlet 12 is connected to the third end 521 of the second heat exchange module 52. The first heat exchange module 51 and the second heat exchange module 52, as components of the outdoor heat exchanger 5, are located on the same side of the housing 14 of the gas-liquid separator 1. The first inlet / outlet 11 and the second inlet / outlet 12 both face one side of the housing 14, and both extend horizontally, with the extension direction of the first inlet / outlet 11 parallel to that of the second inlet / outlet 12, facilitating communication between the first inlet / outlet 11 and the first heat exchange module 51. This also facilitates communication between the second inlet / outlet 12 and the second heat exchange module 52, increasing the ease of connection between the gas-liquid separator 1 and the heat exchange system 100.

[0051] In some embodiments of this utility model, the distance between the second inlet / outlet 12 and the bottom wall of the housing 14 is less than the distance between the second inlet / outlet 12 and the top wall of the housing 14. That is, the second inlet 12 is closer to the bottom wall of the housing 14 than the top wall of the housing 14. In the heating mode, the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters the gas-liquid separator 1 through the second inlet 12. The gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters tangentially along the inner wall of the housing 14 of the gas-liquid separator 1, forming a swirling flow on the inner wall of the housing 14 of the gas-liquid separator 1, so that the gaseous heat exchange medium and the liquid heat exchange medium are separated, ensuring the gas-liquid separation effect of the gas-liquid separator 1. When the gaseous heat exchange medium evaporates towards the top wall of the housing 14, the residual liquid heat exchange medium can continue to slide down to the bottom wall of the housing 14 under the action of gravity. This further avoids the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium from flowing directly out of the gas-liquid separator 1 from the first inlet 11 after entering the gas-liquid separator 1, and avoids the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium from directly entering the first heat exchange module 51 through the first inlet 11, so as to avoid affecting the heat exchange effect of the outdoor heat exchanger 5 and improve the heating capacity of the air conditioner in the heating mode.

[0052] In some embodiments of this utility model, the height of the housing 14 is 170mm-220mm, and the diameter of the housing 14 is 80mm-100mm. It is understood that the height of the housing 14 can be 170mm, 175mm, 180mm, 185mm, 190mm, 195mm, 200mm, 205mm, 210mm, 215mm, or 220mm; and the diameter of the housing 14 can be 80mm, 82mm, 84mm, 86mm, 88mm, 90mm, 92mm, 94mm, 96mm, 98mm, or 100mm. The size of the housing 14 can be selected according to the flow rate of the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange system 100 and the space available for arranging the gas-liquid separator 1 to meet different usage requirements.

[0053] In some embodiments of this utility model, the distance between the center of the first inlet / outlet 11 and the center of the housing 14 is 20mm-30mm, and the distance between the center of the second inlet / outlet 12 and the center of the housing 14 is 20mm-30mm. It is understood that the distance between the center of the first inlet / outlet 11 and the center of the housing 14 can be 20mm, 21mm, 22mm, 23mm, 24mm, 25mm, 26mm, 27mm, 28mm, 29mm, or 30mm; the distance between the center of the second inlet / outlet 12 and the center of the housing 14 can also be 20mm, 21mm, 22mm, 23mm, 24mm, 25mm, 26mm, 27mm, 28mm, 29mm, or 30mm. The positions of the first inlet / outlet 11 and the second inlet / outlet 12 can be selected according to the flow rate of the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium entering the gas-liquid separator 1 from the first inlet / outlet 11 to meet different usage requirements.

[0054] In some embodiments of this utility model, the distance between the center of the first inlet / outlet 11 and the bottom wall of the housing 14 is 35mm-75mm. It is understood that the distance between the center of the first inlet / outlet 11 and the bottom wall of the housing 14 can be 35mm, 37mm, 39mm, 41mm, 43mm, 45mm, 47mm, 49mm, 51mm, 53mm, 55mm, 57mm, 59mm, 61mm, 63mm, 65mm, 67mm, 69mm, 71mm, 73mm, or 75mm. The position of the first inlet / outlet 11 can be selected according to the flow rate of the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium entering the gas-liquid separator 1 from the first inlet / outlet 11, to meet different design requirements.

[0055] In some embodiments of this utility model, the vertical distance between the center of the second entrance / exit 12 and the center of the first entrance / exit 11 is 15mm-25mm. It can be understood that the vertical distance between the center of the second entrance / exit 12 and the center of the first entrance / exit 11 can be 15mm, 16mm, 17mm, 18mm, 19mm, 20mm, 21mm, 22mm, 23mm, 24mm, or 25mm. That is, along such... Figure 1 As shown in the vertical direction, the second inlet / outlet 12 is located above the first inlet / outlet 11 and is 15mm-25mm apart. This creates a certain distance between the second inlet / outlet 12 and the first inlet / outlet 11 in the direction from the top wall to the bottom wall of the housing 14. This facilitates the entry of the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium tangentially along the inner wall of the housing 14 of the gas-liquid separator 1, forming a swirling flow on the inner wall of the housing 14 of the gas-liquid separator 1. This facilitates the separation of the gaseous and liquid heat exchange media, ensuring the gas-liquid separation effect of the gas-liquid separator 1. In heating mode, this prevents the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium from entering the gas-liquid separator 1 and directly flowing out of the gas-liquid separator 1 from the first inlet / outlet 11, and prevents the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium from directly entering the first heat exchange module 51 through the first inlet / outlet 11, thus avoiding affecting the heat exchange effect of the outdoor heat exchanger 5.

[0056] In this embodiment, the housing 14 of the gas-liquid separator 1 is a cylindrical housing 14. Connecting pipes are provided at the first inlet / outlet 11, the second inlet / outlet 12 and the outlet 13. The diameter of the housing 14 is 76 mm, the height of the housing 14 is 150 mm, the diameter of the first inlet / outlet 11 is 12.7 mm, the diameter of the second inlet / outlet 12 is 15.9 mm, and the diameter of the outlet 13 is 15.9 mm.

[0057] like Figure 2 As shown, the heat exchange system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a compressor 2, a four-way valve 3, an indoor heat exchanger 4, an outdoor heat exchanger 5, and the aforementioned gas-liquid separator 1.

[0058] Specifically, the compressor 2 has an exhaust port 21 and an exhaust port 22. The heat exchange system 100 is used in the air conditioner. When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the compressor 2 generates a high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous heat exchange medium, which is discharged through the exhaust port 21 to provide power for the cooling cycle.

[0059] like Figure 2 As shown, the four-way valve 3 has a first port 31, a second port 32, a third port 33, and a fourth port 34. The first port 31 is connected to one of the second port 32 and the third port 33, and the fourth port 34 is connected to the other of the second port 32 and the third port 33. The first port 31 is connected to the exhaust port 21. It can be understood that the first port 31 is connected to the second port 32, and the fourth port 34 is connected to the third port 33; or the first port 31 is connected to the third port 33, and the fourth port 34 is connected to the second port 32. One end of the indoor heat exchanger 4 is connected to the third port 33.

[0060] The outdoor heat exchanger 5 includes a first heat exchange module 51 and a second heat exchange module 52. The first heat exchange module 51 has two ends, a first end 511 and a second end 512, with the first end 511 connected to the second port 32. The second heat exchange module 52 has two ends, a third end 521 and a fourth end 522, with the fourth end 522 connected to the other end of the indoor heat exchanger 4. Understandably, when the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the compressor 2 generates a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous heat exchange medium, which is discharged through the exhaust port 21 and enters the four-way valve 3 through the first port 31. The first port 31 is connected to the second port 32, and the fourth port 34 is connected to the third port 33. The high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous heat exchange medium enters the outdoor heat exchanger 5 through the first end 511. The heat exchange medium exchanges heat with the external environment (air or water) through the outdoor heat exchanger 5, thereby being cooled and condensed into a medium-temperature, high-pressure liquid heat exchange medium. Then, the heat exchange medium flows out of the outdoor heat exchanger 5 from the fourth end 522 and enters the indoor heat exchanger 4. The heat exchange medium in the indoor heat exchanger 4 exchanges heat with the hotter external airflow. The heat exchange medium in the indoor heat exchanger 4 absorbs heat and undergoes a phase change, forming a lower temperature gaseous or gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium. The heat exchange medium flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger 4 enters the third port 33 of the four-way valve 3, flows out of the four-way valve 3 from the fourth port 34 connected to the third port 33, and flows back to the return port 22 of the compressor 2.

[0061] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the gas-liquid separator 1 has a first inlet / outlet 11, a second inlet / outlet 12, and an outlet 13. The second end 512 is connected to the first inlet / outlet 11, the second inlet / outlet 12 is connected to the third end 521, and the outlet 13 is connected to the other end of the indoor heat exchanger 4. It can be understood that, as... Figure 2As shown, when the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the compressor 2 generates a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous heat exchange medium, which is discharged through the exhaust port 21 and enters the four-way valve 3 through the first port 31. The first port 31 is connected to the second port 32, and the fourth port 34 is connected to the third port 33. The high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous heat exchange medium enters the first heat exchange module 51 through the first end 511. The heat exchange medium exchanges heat with the external environment (air or water) through the first heat exchange module 51, and part of it is cooled and condensed into a medium-temperature, high-pressure liquid heat exchange medium. The second inlet / outlet 12 can be the outlet of the gas-liquid separator 1, and the outlet 13 can be the liquid outlet of the gas-liquid separator 1; or, the second inlet / outlet 12 can be the liquid outlet of the gas-liquid separator 1, and the outlet 13 can be the outlet of the gas-liquid separator 1.

[0062] At this time, the heat exchange medium near the second end 512 in the first heat exchange module 51 is in a gas-liquid mixed state. The gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters the gas-liquid separator 1 through the first inlet / outlet 11 via the second end 512. After gas-liquid separation, the liquid heat exchange medium flows to the indoor heat exchanger 4 through the outlet 13, and the gaseous heat exchange medium enters the second heat exchange module 52 through the third end 521 via the second inlet / outlet 12. The heat exchange medium exchanges heat with the external environment (air or water) through the second heat exchange module 52. The cooled and condensed liquid heat exchange medium is then discharged from the second heat exchange module 52 at the fourth end 522 and enters the indoor heat exchanger 4. The heat exchange medium in the indoor heat exchanger 4 exchanges heat with the hotter external airflow. The heat exchange medium in the indoor heat exchanger 4 absorbs heat and undergoes a phase change, forming a lower temperature gaseous or gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium. The heat exchange medium flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger 4 enters the third port 33 of the four-way valve 3, flows out of the four-way valve 3 from the fourth port 34 connected to the third port 33, and flows back to the return port 22 of the compressor 2.

[0063] Therefore, during the cooling process, the amount of liquid heat exchange medium in the outdoor heat exchanger 5 can be reduced, preventing the liquid heat exchange medium from adsorbing on the inner wall of the heat exchange tube of the outdoor heat exchanger 5, and preventing the heat transfer coefficient from decreasing as the film thickness of the liquid heat exchange medium on the inner wall of the heat exchange tube increases, thereby increasing the heat transfer coefficient and improving the condensation effect of the outdoor heat exchanger 5 during the cooling process.

[0064] At this time, the high-temperature gaseous heat exchange medium discharged from the exhaust port 21 of the compressor 2 passes through the four-way valve 3 and enters the first heat exchange module 51 to release heat and become a liquid heat exchange medium. The liquid heat exchange medium passes through the gas-liquid separator 1 and enters the second heat exchange module 52 to continue to release heat and condense. Then it enters the indoor heat exchanger 4 to evaporate and absorb heat, and becomes a gaseous heat exchange medium that flows back to the return port 22 of the compressor 2 through the four-way valve 3, completing one cycle.

[0065] like Figure 3As shown, when the air conditioner is in heating mode, the compressor 2 generates a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous heat exchange medium, which is discharged through the exhaust port 21 and enters the four-way valve 3 through the first port 31. The first port 31 is connected to the third port 33, and the fourth port 34 is connected to the second port 32.

[0066] High-temperature, high-pressure gaseous heat exchange medium enters the indoor heat exchanger 4 through the third port 33. The heat exchange medium exchanges heat with the external environment (air or water) through the indoor heat exchanger 4, releasing a large amount of heat, thereby heating the indoor air. The heat exchange medium condenses from a gaseous state to a liquid state, releasing condensation heat. The heat exchange medium flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger 4 forms a low-temperature, low-pressure gas-liquid mixture and flows to the fourth end 522 of the second heat exchange module 52.

[0067] The gaseous heat exchange medium enters the second heat exchange module 52 through the fourth end 522. The heat exchange medium exchanges heat with the external environment (air or water) through the second heat exchange module 52. The heat exchange medium in the second heat exchange module 52 absorbs heat and undergoes a phase change, in which part of it forms a gaseous or gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium at a lower temperature.

[0068] At this time, the heat exchange medium near the third end 521 in the second heat exchange module 52 is in a gas-liquid mixed state. The gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters the gas-liquid separator 1 through the first inlet 11 via the third end 521. After gas-liquid separation, the gaseous heat exchange medium flows to the second port 32 through the second inlet 12, and the liquid heat exchange medium enters the first heat exchange module 51 through the outlet 13 via the second end 512. The heat exchange medium exchanges heat with the external environment (air or water) through the first heat exchange module 51. The heat exchange medium in the first heat exchange module 51 absorbs heat and undergoes a phase change, forming a gaseous heat exchange medium with a lower temperature. It then flows out of the first heat exchange module 51 from the first end 511 and enters the second port 32. It flows out of the four-way valve 3 from the fourth port 34 connected to the second port 32 and flows back to the return port 22 of the compressor 2.

[0069] Therefore, during the heating process, the amount of gaseous heat exchange medium in the outdoor heat exchanger 5 can be reduced, avoiding excessive dryness of the heat exchange medium. The gaseous heat exchange medium evaporated in the second heat exchange module 52 can be separated from the second heat exchange module 52 in a timely manner, reducing the proportion of mist flow and gas phase flow, and ensuring a high heat transfer coefficient of the outdoor heat exchanger 5. At the same time, separating the gaseous heat exchange medium reduces the pressure drop of the outdoor heat exchanger 5, which can improve the operating efficiency of the heat exchange system 100.

[0070] Furthermore, since the gas phase heat exchange medium exiting the second heat exchange module 52 no longer possesses evaporative heat absorption capacity, a gas-liquid separator 1 is used to separate the gas phase heat exchange medium, preventing it from re-entering the first heat exchange module 51. This reduces the flow rate of the heat exchange medium in the first heat exchange module 51 and lowers its pressure loss. Simultaneously, the separated gas phase refrigerant merges with the gaseous heat exchange medium exiting the first heat exchange module 51, increasing the suction capacity of the compressor 2 and thus increasing the input power and heating capacity of the compressor 2.

[0071] The ratio A of the number of heat exchange tubes in the second heat exchange module 52 to the number of heat exchange tubes in the outdoor heat exchanger 5 satisfies: 16.7% ≤ A ≤ 35%. It can be understood that the ratio A of the number of heat exchange tubes in the second heat exchange module 52 to the number of heat exchange tubes in the outdoor heat exchanger 5 can be 16.7%, 17%, 17.3%, 17.6%, 17.9%, 18.2%, 18.5%, 18.8%, 19.1%, 19.4%, 19.7%, 20%, 20.3%, 20.6%, 20.9%, 21.2%, 21.5%, 21.8%, 22.1%, 22.4%, 22.7%, 23%, 23.3%, 23.6%, 23.9%, 24.2%, 24.5%, 2... 4.8%, 25.1%, 25.4%, 25.7%, 26%, 26.3%, 26.6%, 26.9%, 27.2%, 27.5%, 27.8%, 28.1%, 28.4%, 28.7%, 29%, 29.3%, 29.6%, 29.9%, 30.2%, 30.5%, 30.8%, 31.1%, 31.4%, 31.7%, 32%, 32.3%, 32.6%, 32.9%, 33.2%, 33.5%, 33.8%, 34.1%, 34.4%, 34.7%, or 35%. The ratio A of the number of heat exchange tubes in the second heat exchange module 52 to the number of heat exchange tubes in the outdoor heat exchanger 5 is 16.7%-35%. When the outdoor heat exchanger 5 acts as an evaporator, the heat exchange capacity per unit pump power of the outdoor heat exchanger 5 increases with the increase of the ratio of the number of heat exchange tubes in the second heat exchange module 52 to the number of heat exchange tubes in the outdoor heat exchanger 5. When the outdoor heat exchanger 5 acts as a condenser, the heat exchange capacity per unit pump power of the outdoor heat exchanger 5 shows a trend of first increasing and then decreasing with the increase of the ratio of the number of heat exchange tubes in the second heat exchange module 52 to the number of heat exchange tubes in the outdoor heat exchanger 5. The number of heat exchange tubes in the second heat exchange module 52 is 16.7%-35% of the number of heat exchange tubes in the outdoor heat exchanger 5. The heat exchange effect of the outdoor heat exchanger 5 is better when it acts as an evaporator, and it can avoid the decrease in heat exchange effect when the outdoor heat exchanger 5 acts as a condenser. At the same time, it improves the heat exchange effect of the outdoor heat exchanger 5 in both cooling and heating modes.

[0072] According to the heat exchange system 100 of this utility model embodiment, by setting the air outlet 13 on the top wall of the housing 14, and setting the first inlet 11 and the second inlet 12 near the bottom wall of the housing 14, the first inlet 11 and the second inlet 12 are closer to the bottom wall of the housing 14 than the top wall of the housing 14. The gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters the gas-liquid separator 1 through the second inlet 12. The gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters tangentially along the inner wall of the housing 14 of the gas-liquid separator 1, forming a swirling flow on the inner wall of the housing 14 of the gas-liquid separator 1, so as to separate the gaseous heat exchange medium and the liquid heat exchange medium, ensuring the gas-liquid separation effect of the gas-liquid separator 1. In the heating mode, the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium is prevented from entering the gas-liquid separator 1 and flowing directly out of the gas-liquid separator 1 from the first inlet 11, and the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium is prevented from directly entering the first heat exchange module 51 through the first inlet 11, so as to avoid affecting the heat exchange effect of the outdoor heat exchanger 5.

[0073] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a first flow path 6 connects the outlet 13 and the second port 32. A first one-way valve 62 is installed on the first flow path 6, which only allows the heat exchange medium to flow from the outlet 13 to the second port 32. It can be understood that the first one-way valve 62 is configured to open the first flow path 6 when the heat exchange medium flows from the outlet 13 to the second port 32, and to close the first flow path 6 when the heat exchange medium flows from the second port 32 to the outlet 13. This prevents reverse flow of the heat exchange medium at the second port 32, and under heating conditions, it prevents the heat exchange medium from being unable to flow smoothly to the second port 32, thereby increasing the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger 5.

[0074] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first heat exchange module 51 includes multiple parallel first heat exchange flow paths 513. The heat exchange medium enters the multiple first heat exchange flow paths 513 respectively for heat exchange, avoiding the uniformity of the flow direction of the heat exchange medium and avoiding affecting the heat exchange effect of the first heat exchange module 51.

[0075] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the second heat exchange module 52 includes multiple parallel second heat exchange flow paths 523. The heat exchange medium enters the multiple second heat exchange flow paths 523 respectively for heat exchange, avoiding the uniformity of the flow direction of the heat exchange medium and avoiding affecting the heat exchange effect of the second heat exchange module 52.

[0076] Furthermore, such as Figure 2As shown, the heat exchange system 100 also includes a first liquid distribution device 7. One end of the first liquid distribution device 7 is connected to the first inlet / outlet 11, and the other end is connected to multiple first heat exchange flow paths 513. The first liquid distribution device 7 can evenly distribute the liquid heat exchange medium to each of the first heat exchange flow paths 513, ensuring the balanced operation of the heat exchange system 100.

[0077] Furthermore, the heat exchange system 100 also includes a second liquid distribution device, one end of which is connected to the second inlet / outlet 12, and the other end is connected to multiple second heat exchange flow paths 523. The second liquid distribution device can evenly distribute the liquid heat exchange medium to each of the second heat exchange flow paths 523, ensuring the balanced operation of the heat exchange system 100.

[0078] In some embodiments of this utility model, the cross-sections of multiple first heat exchange flow paths 513 are N-shaped and / or inverted N-shaped; the cross-sections of multiple second heat exchange flow paths 523 are N-shaped and / or U-shaped; wherein the cross-sections are perpendicular to the axial direction of the heat exchange tube. It can be understood that the cross-sections of multiple first heat exchange flow paths 513 are N-shaped, or inverted N-shaped, or a combination of N-shaped and inverted N-shaped; the cross-sections of multiple second heat exchange flow paths 523 are N-shaped, or U-shaped, or a combination of N-shaped and U-shaped. The cross-sections of the first heat exchange flow paths 513 and the second heat exchange flow paths 523 can be selected according to design requirements to meet different heat exchange efficiency requirements of the outdoor heat exchanger 5.

[0079] In this embodiment, as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a throttling device 8 is provided between the fourth end 522 and the indoor heat exchanger 4. In cooling mode, the heat exchange medium flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger 5 flows to the throttling device 8. The throttling device 8 reduces the condensation pressure of the heat exchange medium to the evaporation pressure, and a portion of the liquid heat exchange medium will be converted into vapor, forming a low-temperature, low-pressure gas-liquid mixture, which then flows out of the throttling device 8 and into the indoor heat exchanger 4. Specifically, the throttling device 8 can be an electronic expansion valve, a capillary tube, or a throttling valve.

[0080] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a liquid storage tank 9 is provided between the fourth port 34 and the return gas port 22. This separates the lubricating oil from the steam at the return gas port 22 to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the device. Separating the lubricating oil prevents it from entering other parts of the heat exchange system 100, thus avoiding damage to those parts.

[0081] The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes the heat exchange system 100 described above.

[0082] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the air conditioner has an air outlet 13 located on the top wall of the housing 14, and the first inlet 11 and the second inlet 12 located near the bottom wall of the housing 14. This makes the first inlet 11 and the second inlet 12 closer to the bottom wall of the housing 14 than the top wall of the housing 14. The gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters the gas-liquid separator 1 through the second inlet 12. The gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium enters tangentially along the inner wall of the housing 14 of the gas-liquid separator 1, forming a swirling flow on the inner wall of the housing 14 of the gas-liquid separator 1, thereby separating the gaseous heat exchange medium and the liquid heat exchange medium, ensuring the gas-liquid separation effect of the gas-liquid separator 1. In the heating mode, the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium is prevented from entering the gas-liquid separator 1 and flowing directly out of the gas-liquid separator 1 through the first inlet 11, and the gas-liquid mixed heat exchange medium is prevented from directly entering the first heat exchange module 51 through the first inlet 11, thus avoiding affecting the heat exchange effect of the outdoor heat exchanger 5.

[0083] Other components and operations of the gas-liquid separator, heat exchange system, and air conditioner according to embodiments of the present invention are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0084] 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 present 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.

[0085] Although embodiments of the present 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 present invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A gas-liquid separator, characterized in that, The gas-liquid separator includes: The housing has a first inlet, a second inlet, and an air outlet. The air outlet is located on the top wall of the housing. The first inlet and the second inlet are both located near the bottom wall of the housing. The distance between the first inlet and the bottom wall of the housing is less than the distance between the second inlet and the bottom wall of the housing.

2. The gas-liquid separator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The diameter of the first entrance / exit is D1, and the diameter of the second entrance / exit is D2, and the following conditions are met: D1 <D2。 3. The gas-liquid separator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The diameter of the air outlet is D3, and it satisfies: D3≤D2.

4. The gas-liquid separator according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the first inlet and the second inlet face one side of the housing, and both extend horizontally, with the extension direction of the first inlet and the extension direction of the second inlet being parallel.

5. The gas-liquid separator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The distance between the second inlet / outlet and the bottom wall of the housing is less than the distance between the second inlet / outlet and the top wall of the housing.

6. The gas-liquid separator according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The height of the shell is 170mm-220mm, and the diameter of the shell is 80mm-100mm; And / or, the distance between the center of the first inlet / outlet and the center of the housing is 20mm-30mm, and the distance between the center of the second inlet / outlet and the center of the housing is 20mm-30mm; And / or, the distance between the center of the first inlet / outlet and the bottom wall of the housing is 35mm-75mm; And / or, the distance between the center of the second entrance and the center of the first entrance in the vertical direction is 15mm-25mm.

7. A heat exchange system, characterized in that, include: The compressor has an exhaust port and an exhaust port; A four-way valve having a first port, a second port, a third port, and a fourth port, wherein the first port is connected to one of the second port and the third port, the fourth port is connected to the other of the second port and the third port, the first port is connected to the exhaust port, and the fourth port is connected to the return port. An indoor heat exchanger, one end of which is connected to the third port; An outdoor heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange module and a second heat exchange module. The first heat exchange module has two ends, namely a first end and a second end, with the first end connected to a second port. The second heat exchange module has two ends, namely a third end and a fourth end, with the fourth end connected to the other end of the indoor heat exchanger. The gas-liquid separator according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the first inlet / outlet is connected to the second end, the second inlet / outlet is connected to the third end, and the gas outlet is connected to the second outlet.

8. The heat exchange system according to claim 7, characterized in that, A first flow path is connected between the air outlet and the second port. A first one-way valve is provided on the first flow path, which only allows the heat exchange medium to flow from the air outlet to the second port.

9. The heat exchange system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first heat exchange module includes multiple parallel first heat exchange flow paths; And / or, the second heat exchange module includes multiple parallel second heat exchange flow paths.

10. The heat exchange system according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: The first liquid separation device has one end connected to the first inlet and outlet, and the other end connected to multiple first heat exchange flow paths.

11. The heat exchange system according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: The second liquid separator has one end connected to the second inlet and outlet, and the other end connected to multiple second heat exchange channels.

12. The heat exchange system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The cross-sections of the plurality of first heat exchange flow paths are N-shaped and / or inverted N-shaped; the cross-sections of the plurality of second heat exchange flow paths are N-shaped and / or U-shaped; wherein the cross-sections are perpendicular to the axial direction of the heat exchange tube.

13. The heat exchange system according to claim 7, characterized in that, A throttling device is provided between the fourth end and the indoor heat exchanger.

14. An air conditioner, characterized in that, Includes the heat exchange system according to any one of claims 7-13.

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