Refrigerant switching device and air conditioning system

Abstract

The application discloses a refrigerant switching device and a heating and ventilation system. The refrigerant switching device comprises a shell, a liquid pipe assembly and a gas pipe assembly which are arranged separately, and the liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe assembly are installed in the shell. In the dismounting direction in which one of the gas pipe assembly and the liquid pipe assembly is close to or far away from the other, the gas pipe assembly and the liquid pipe assembly do not interfere with each other. The technical scheme can improve production efficiency and ensure product quality.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of heating, ventilation and air conditioning technology, and in particular to a refrigerant switching device and an air conditioning system using the refrigerant switching device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, HVAC systems are widely used in office buildings and shopping malls. An HVAC system generally includes a heat source unit, a refrigerant switching device, and multiple load units. The main function of the refrigerant switching device is to enable the load units to switch between different modes. The heat source unit and each load unit are connected to the refrigerant switching device through liquid and gas pipes, thereby achieving cooling and heating through the exchange of heat exchange media.

[0003] In related technologies, refrigerant switching devices include liquid pipe assemblies and gas pipe assemblies. During production and assembly, all pipe assemblies must be welded first and then installed into the housing as a whole. Due to the large overall weight of the pipes, assembly is inconvenient and structural deformation is likely to occur, affecting product quality. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides a refrigerant switching device and an air conditioning system, which can improve production efficiency and ensure product quality.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a refrigerant switching device, including:

[0006] shell; and

[0007] The piping structure includes a separately configured liquid pipe assembly and a gas pipe assembly, which are installed inside the housing. In the disassembly / reassembly direction, the gas pipe assembly and the liquid pipe assembly do not interfere with each other, with one of the gas pipe assembly and the other being closer to or further away from the other.

[0008] In the assembly process of the refrigerant switching device in this embodiment, the liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe assembly can be installed sequentially on the housing. Furthermore, in the disassembly / reassembly direction where one of the gas pipe assembly is closer to or further away from the other, the gas pipe assembly and the liquid pipe assembly do not interfere with each other, making disassembly and assembly more convenient. This reduces installation difficulty, improves installation efficiency, and reduces the labor intensity of operators. Compared with the structure in related technologies where the liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe assembly are connected as a single unit before installation, the liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe assembly installed in this embodiment are lighter in weight, less prone to structural deformation, reduce installation problems, ensure product quality, and improve product yield.

[0009] In one embodiment, the liquid tubing assembly defines an installation space with an opening along the disassembly / assembly direction, and the main body of the gas tubing assembly is disposed within the installation space. Thus, the liquid tubing assembly and the gas tubing assembly have a more compact structure and higher space utilization.

[0010] In one embodiment, in the disassembly / assembly direction, the main body portion of the endotracheal tube assembly and the main body portion of the liquid tube assembly are stacked. Thus, by stacking the main body portions of the endotracheal tube assembly and the liquid tube assembly, while ensuring that the main body portions of the endotracheal tube assembly and the liquid tube assembly do not interfere with each other in the disassembly / assembly direction, the disassembly / assembly of the endotracheal tube assembly and the liquid tube assembly are made more convenient, thereby improving disassembly / assembly efficiency.

[0011] In one embodiment, the liquid tubing assembly includes

[0012] Liquid control valves; and

[0013] The liquid pipeline includes a liquid pipe connector for connecting to a heat source unit and a load-side liquid pipe for connecting to a load unit. The liquid control valve is connected to the liquid pipeline to control the flow rate or opening and closing of the flow path of the liquid pipeline.

[0014] The liquid control valve and the load-side liquid pipe are located on opposite sides of the main body of the liquid pipeline. The main body of the gas pipe assembly is situated between the liquid control valve and the load-side liquid pipe, and is stacked on top of the main body of the liquid pipeline. Thus, the main body of the gas pipe assembly is surrounded by the liquid pipe assembly, resulting in a more compact structure and improved space utilization.

[0015] In one embodiment, the liquid control valve includes a heat source-side connection and a load-side connection, and the liquid pipeline includes:

[0016] A first pipeline, connected to the heat source side connection, is closer to the heat source unit than the liquid control valve, and its main body is positioned on a first horizontal plane; and

[0017] The second pipeline is connected to the load-side connection part. The main body of the second pipeline is disposed on the second horizontal plane. The end of the second pipeline away from the load-side connection part is provided with the load-side liquid pipe.

[0018] The second horizontal plane is positioned above the first horizontal plane at intervals, and the main body of the tracheal assembly is positioned on the main body of the second pipeline.

[0019] In this embodiment, the main body of the first pipeline and the main body of the second pipeline are respectively set on the first horizontal plane and the second horizontal plane. This not only simplifies the structure but also makes the liquid pipe assembly more compact and reduces the thickness of the liquid pipe assembly, thereby effectively reducing the space occupied by the liquid pipe assembly. Correspondingly, when the gas pipe assembly is set on the liquid pipe assembly, the overall structure of the two is thinner, which is conducive to the miniaturization of the gas pipe assembly and the liquid pipe assembly.

[0020] In one embodiment, the first pipeline includes at least one liquid manifold and multiple liquid branch pipes connecting to the liquid manifold. The liquid manifold extends along a first direction and is spaced apart from the liquid control valve along a second direction. The liquid branch pipes extend along the second direction, with one end of each liquid branch pipe connected to a heat source side connection and the other end connected to the liquid manifold. The first direction is parallel to the first horizontal plane, and the first and second directions are perpendicular to each other and both perpendicular to the disassembly / assembly direction. By setting up a liquid manifold to connect multiple liquid branch pipes, the pipeline length of each liquid branch pipe is reduced, thereby effectively reducing costs and further solving the problem of high costs in refrigerant switching devices, thus meeting the demand for low-cost production.

[0021] In one embodiment, the number of liquid manifolds is three: a main liquid manifold, a cooling branch liquid manifold, and a heating branch liquid manifold. The main liquid manifold is used to connect to a heat source unit. The cooling branch liquid manifold and the heating branch liquid manifold branch from the main liquid manifold branch. Two liquid branches are formed from each of the liquid branch pipes, which are defined as a branch liquid manifold and a bypass liquid manifold, respectively. Each branch liquid manifold is connected to the heating branch liquid manifold and is configured to flow unidirectionally from the branch liquid manifold to the heating branch liquid manifold. Each bypass liquid manifold is connected to the cooling branch liquid manifold and is configured to flow unidirectionally from the cooling branch liquid manifold to the bypass liquid manifold.

[0022] In one embodiment, the main liquid pipe, the refrigeration branch liquid pipe, and the heating branch liquid pipe are all located on the first horizontal plane. Setting the main liquid pipe, the refrigeration branch liquid pipe, and the heating branch liquid pipe in the same plane is beneficial for production and structural design, and allows as many structures of the first pipeline as possible to be set on the first horizontal plane, resulting in a simpler and more compact structure and reduced vertical space occupation.

[0023] And / or, at least a portion of the branch fluid pipe and at least a portion of the bypass fluid pipe are arranged side by side and located on the first horizontal plane, making the structure of the first pipeline simpler and more compact.

[0024] In one embodiment, the load-side connection extends along the disassembly / assembly direction, the load-side connection is spaced apart above the first horizontal plane, and the heat source-side connection extends along the second direction close to the liquid manifold;

[0025] The first pipeline includes a first main pipe and a first transition section. The first main pipe is located on the first horizontal plane, and the first transition section extends upward from the first main pipe to the heat source side connection section.

[0026] The second pipeline includes a second main pipe and a second transition section. The second main pipe is located on the second horizontal plane, and the second transition section extends upward from the second main pipe to the load-side connection section.

[0027] In this way, not only can the length of the first and second pipes be reduced, but the load-side connection and the heat source-side connection can also be kept in a vertical plane perpendicular to the first direction, thereby reducing space occupation and making the liquid pipe assembly more compact.

[0028] In one embodiment, the second main tube includes a clearance portion that bypasses the first transition portion, and the remaining portion of the second main tube is located on the vertical plane where the load-side connection portion and the heat source connection portion are located.

[0029] In this way, by avoiding the first transition part through the avoidance part, the interference between the first pipeline and the second pipeline is avoided. The part of the second main pipe other than the avoidance part is located on the vertical plane where the load side connection part and the heat source connection part are located, so that the liquid pipe assembly is more compact and the space occupancy is reduced.

[0030] In one embodiment, the tracheal assembly includes:

[0031] A gas manifold extends along the first direction;

[0032] Gas branch pipes are arranged at intervals along the first direction, and multiple gas branch pipes converge into a gas manifold, wherein the gas manifold is closer to the heat source unit than each individual gas branch pipe; and

[0033] A gas control valve is connected to the gas branch pipe such that each gas branch pipe is provided with at least one gas control valve, and a plurality of gas control valves are configured in at least one row along the first direction;

[0034] The gas manifold and one row of gas control valves are disposed at both ends of the gas branch pipe along the second direction, and the gas manifold and the gas control valves are located between the liquid control valve and the load-side liquid pipe.

[0035] In this embodiment, the gas manifold and one row of gas control valves are disposed at both ends of the gas branch pipe along the second direction, thereby the gas manifold, gas branch pipe and gas control valve constitute the main body of the gas pipe assembly. The gas manifold and gas control valve are located between the liquid control valve and the load-side liquid pipe, which facilitates the pipeline layout of the gas pipe assembly, making the gas pipe assembly structure compact and easy to manufacture and assemble.

[0036] In one embodiment, the gas branch pipe further includes a load-side gas pipe for connecting the load unit, the load-side gas pipe being located on the side of the gas manifold away from the gas control valve;

[0037] Multiple load-side air pipes are spaced apart along the first direction and are vertically offset from the load-side liquid pipes in the assembly / disassembly direction.

[0038] In this embodiment, there is a sufficient gap between the load-side liquid pipe and the load-side gas pipe, which on the one hand avoids interference between the two, and on the other hand provides operating space for the connection operation of the load-side liquid pipe and the load-side gas pipe to the indoor unit, thus providing operational convenience.

[0039] In one embodiment, the second pipeline includes a second main pipe and a second transition portion, the second main pipe being located on the second horizontal plane, and the second transition portion extending upward from the second main pipe to the load-side connection portion;

[0040] The second pipeline includes a first filter tube, a third transition section, and a fourth transition section. The first filter tube is located on the first horizontal plane. The third transition section extends downward from the second main pipe to the first horizontal plane and connects to the first filter tube. The load-side liquid pipe is higher than the second horizontal plane. One end of the fourth transition section is connected to the first filter tube, and the other end extends upward and connects to the load-side liquid pipe. The first filter tube removes mechanical impurities and contaminants from the pipeline, ensuring smooth refrigerant flow and preventing blockages from affecting the normal operation of the HVAC system.

[0041] In one embodiment, the gas manifold is located above the first filter tube. The first filter tube is located on a first horizontal plane, and the third transition portion, the first filter tube, and the fourth transition portion form a concave avoidance corner to avoid the gas manifold. The gas manifold is located above the first filter tube, and there is sufficient distance between the gas manifold and the third transition portion, the first filter tube, and the fourth transition portion. This not only avoids interference between the gas and liquid tubing assemblies but also facilitates installation and maintenance / replacement of the first filter tube, improving work efficiency.

[0042] In one embodiment, the gas branch pipe further includes a second filter pipe, a fifth transition section, and a sixth transition section. The second filter pipe is located on the first horizontal plane and is arranged side by side with the first filter pipe. The fifth transition section extends downward to the first horizontal plane and connects to the second filter pipe. The sixth transition section extends upward from the second filter pipe and connects to the load-side gas pipe. The second filter pipe removes mechanical impurities and contaminants from the pipeline, ensuring smooth refrigerant flow and preventing blockages from affecting the normal operation of the HVAC system.

[0043] In one embodiment, the gas manifold includes a high-pressure gas pipe and a low-pressure gas pipe, and branches from the gas branch pipe to form two gas branches, which are respectively defined as a bypass gas pipe and a branch gas pipe. The bypass gas pipe is connected to the low-pressure gas pipe, and the branch gas pipe is connected to the high-pressure gas pipe. At least one gas control valve is provided on the bypass gas pipe and the branch gas pipe respectively.

[0044] The high-pressure gas pipe and the low-pressure gas pipe are stacked at intervals in the disassembly and assembly direction, which facilitates pipeline layout and production.

[0045] In one embodiment, the main liquid pipe includes an upwardly extending liquid outlet pipe located on the side of the gas manifold away from the liquid control valve. By providing the liquid outlet pipe, the portion of the main liquid pipe connected to the heat source unit is not on the same vertical line as the low-pressure gas pipe and the high-pressure gas pipe. This ensures that the liquid outlet pipe is staggered from the low-pressure gas pipe and the high-pressure gas pipe, further preventing interference between the gas pipe assembly and the liquid pipe assembly, and guaranteeing the smooth sequential assembly of the liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe assembly.

[0046] In one embodiment, the gas manifold is provided with a gas pipe connection portion that extends through the housing to at least one side along the first direction, and the liquid pipe outlet is provided with a liquid pipe connection portion that extends through the housing to at least one side along the first direction.

[0047] The air pipe connection and the liquid pipe connection are located on the same side of the housing and are arranged at intervals along the disassembly and assembly direction. The air pipe connection and the liquid pipe connection are staggered to avoid interference and further facilitate pipe connection and other operations.

[0048] In one embodiment, the housing includes a housing body, a chassis, and a support beam. The chassis is disposed at the bottom of the housing body, and the support beam is connected to the housing body for mounting the liquid tubing assembly and the gas tubing assembly.

[0049] The chassis is detachably connected to the housing body. This allows the liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe assembly to be suspended above the chassis, enabling direct inspection and maintenance of certain structures of the liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe assembly when the chassis is disassembled.

[0050] In one embodiment, the main body of the gas pipe assembly is suspended on the main body of the liquid pipe assembly, and the portion of the liquid pipe assembly located within the housing is suspended on the chassis. The refrigerant switching device further includes:

[0051] A buffer is filled between the liquid pipe assembly and the chassis to improve the stability of the liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe assembly, thereby preventing the liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe assembly from hitting the housing and causing structural damage when the refrigerant switching device shakes, thus improving structural reliability.

[0052] In one embodiment, the cushioning element is a sponge or rubber component; and / or,

[0053] The buffer is provided with a contoured groove, and at least a portion of the liquid tube assembly is located within the contoured groove.

[0054] This improves the buffering effect, thereby further enhancing the stability of the liquid tubing and gas tubing assemblies.

[0055] In one embodiment, the liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe assembly are provided with at least one filter pipe and at least one one-way valve, wherein at least one filter pipe and at least one one-way valve are located on the horizontal plane of the liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe near the chassis for easy maintenance.

[0056] In one embodiment, the shell body includes a top plate and a plurality of side plates surrounding the periphery of the top plate, the plurality of side plates defining a downwardly facing opening, and the chassis sealing the opening;

[0057] The two ends of the supporting beam are respectively connected to two oppositely arranged side plates, which improves stability and facilitates installation.

[0058] In one embodiment, the supporting beam includes a first beam and a second beam that are spaced apart along a second direction and extend along the first direction;

[0059] The first beam is used to mount the liquid tubing assembly, and the second beam is used to mount the gas tubing assembly. During assembly, the liquid tubing assembly is first installed by fixing the first beam, and then the gas tubing assembly is installed by fixing the second beam. This facilitates the installation of the liquid tubing assembly and the gas tubing assembly in two separate steps.

[0060] Secondly, embodiments of this application propose a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, comprising:

[0061] Heat source unit;

[0062] Load unit; and

[0063] The refrigerant switching device as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe assembly of the refrigerant switching device are connected to the heat source unit and the load unit. Attached Figure Description

[0064] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0065] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the HVAC system of this application;

[0066] Figure 2 This is an overall schematic diagram of an embodiment of the refrigerant switching device of this application;

[0067] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Side view of the refrigerant switching device;

[0068] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the internal structure of the refrigerant switching device;

[0069] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the liquid tubing assembly and the gas tubing assembly of this application;

[0070] Figure 6 for Figure 5 Explosion diagram of the liquid pipe assembly and gas pipe assembly;

[0071] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A side view of the explosion of the liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe assembly;

[0072] Figure 8 This is a side view of an embodiment of the liquid tubing assembly of this application;

[0073] Figure 9 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of the liquid tubing assembly of this application;

[0074] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the tracheal assembly of this application;

[0075] Figure 11 This is a side view of an embodiment of the tracheal assembly of this application;

[0076] Figure 12 for Figure 2 Exploded structural diagram of the refrigerant switching device;

[0077] Figure 13This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the chassis in one embodiment of the refrigerant switching device in this application;

[0078] Figure 14 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the refrigerant switching device at another cross-section;

[0079] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the refrigerant switching device of this application, which includes a buffer component;

[0080] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the refrigerant switching device of this application, which includes a buffer component;

[0081] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of the subcooling component in one embodiment of the refrigerant switching device of this application;

[0082] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the supercooling component of this application;

[0083] Figure 19 A diagram showing the refrigerant flow direction in the refrigerant switching device provided in this application embodiment when all load units are in cooling mode;

[0084] Figure 20 A diagram showing the refrigerant flow direction in the refrigerant switching device provided in this application embodiment when all load units are in heating mode;

[0085] Figure 21 A diagram showing the refrigerant flow direction in the refrigerant switching device provided in this application embodiment when all load units are in main cooling mode;

[0086] Figure 22 A diagram showing the refrigerant flow direction in the refrigerant switching device provided in this application embodiment when all load units are in main heating mode.

[0087] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0088] 100. Refrigerant switching device; 10. Shell; 11. Shell body; 111. Top plate; 112. Side plate; 1121. Load-side side plate; 112a. Load-side port; 1122. Heat source-side side plate; 112b. Heat source-side port; 1123. Electrical control-side side plate; 12. Chassis; 13. Support beam; 131. First beam; 132. Second beam; 16. Buffer; 20. Liquid pipe assembly; 20a. Installation space; 21. Liquid control valve; 211. Load-side connection; 212. Heat source-side connection; 22. First pipeline; 22a. Liquid manifold; 22b. Liquid branch pipe; 221. Main liquid pipe; 2211. Liquid pipe outlet pipe; 2212. Liquid pipe connection; 222. Refrigeration branch liquid pipe; 223. Heating branch liquid pipe; 224. First transition section; 225, branch liquid pipe; 226, bypass liquid pipe; 23, second pipeline; 231, second main pipe; 2311, clearance section; 232, load-side liquid pipe; 233, second transition section; 234, third transition section; 235, fourth transition section; 24, first filter pipe; 30, gas pipe assembly; 30a, gas manifold; 31, low-pressure gas pipe; 32, high-pressure gas pipe; 33, bypass gas pipe; 34, branch gas pipe; 35, gas branch pipe; 351, gas control valve; 352, load-side gas pipe; 36, second filter pipe; 37, fifth transition section; 38, sixth transition section; 50, subcooling assembly; 51, heat exchanger; 52, electronic expansion valve; 53, main inlet pipe; 54, main outlet pipe; 55, auxiliary pipe connection; 56, tee connection.

[0089] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this application will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0090] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0091] Where the following description relates to the accompanying drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0092] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances. Furthermore, in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0093] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0094] Currently, HVAC systems are widely used in office buildings and shopping malls. An HVAC system generally includes a heat source unit, a refrigerant switching device, and multiple load units. The main function of the refrigerant switching device is to enable the load units to switch between different modes of cooling and heating. The heat source unit and each load unit are connected to the refrigerant switching device through liquid pipes and gas pipes, thereby realizing a refrigerant cooling cycle or a refrigerant heating cycle.

[0095] In related technologies, refrigerant switching devices include liquid pipe assemblies and gas pipe assemblies. During production and assembly, all pipe assemblies must be welded first and then installed into the housing as a whole. Due to the large overall weight of the pipes, assembly is inconvenient and structural deformation is likely to occur, affecting product quality.

[0096] To address the aforementioned issues, this application proposes a refrigerant switching device located on the refrigerant circuit between a heat source unit and a load unit. The heat source unit can be installed in an outdoor space or an indoor space (such as an equipment room), while the load unit is installed in an indoor space requiring temperature control. The refrigerant switching device can be installed in the same indoor space requiring temperature control as the load unit, or it can be installed in an independent space. No specific restrictions are placed on the installation environment of the refrigerant switching device.

[0097] The embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific implementation details.

[0098] Reference Figures 1 to 4In some embodiments of this application, the refrigerant switching device 100 includes a housing 10, a gas pipe assembly 30, and a liquid pipe assembly 20, with at least a portion of the gas pipe assembly 30 and the liquid pipe assembly 20 disposed within the interior space of the housing 10.

[0099] The outer contour of the housing 10 can be arranged in a rectangular block shape, with perpendicular height, width, and length directions. The housing 10 is used to support components such as the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the gas pipe assembly 30. The housing 10 can be made of alloys or metals such as aluminum or steel to meet requirements for structural strength and long service life. Of course, the housing 10 can also be made of plastic to meet requirements such as lighter weight; this application does not impose any limitations on this. The housing 10 provides protection and is compatible with the connection structure of the installation environment.

[0100] At least a portion of the gas pipe assembly 30 is disposed within the internal space of the housing 10, meaning that the gas pipe assembly 30 may be entirely located within the housing 10, or it may extend partially to connect to the heat source unit and the load unit respectively. The gas pipe assembly 30 is used to form a gas path connection between the heat source unit and the load unit. At least a portion of the liquid pipe assembly 20 is disposed within the internal space of the housing 10, meaning that the liquid pipe assembly 20 may be entirely located within the housing 10, or it may extend partially to connect to the heat source unit and the load unit respectively. The liquid pipe assembly 20 is used to form a liquid path connection between the heat source unit and the load unit. Understandably, through the gas and liquid flow between the heat source unit, the load unit, and the refrigerant switching device 100, the HVAC system can achieve multiple functions such as heating and cooling, wherein the refrigerant switching device 100 controls or selectively controls the on / off state of the gas path assembly and the liquid path assembly to regulate the above functions.

[0101] In this embodiment, the gas pipe assembly 30 and the liquid pipe assembly 20 are separate components. This separate configuration means that the gas pipe assembly 30 and the liquid pipe assembly 20 are constructed separately and manufactured independently as two components. Before installation, the gas pipe assembly 30 and the liquid pipe assembly 20 are not fixedly connected by welding, snap-fit, or other means. Therefore, during the assembly of the refrigerant switching device 100, the gas pipe assembly 30 and the liquid pipe assembly 20 can be sequentially installed on the housing 10. Specifically, the liquid pipe assembly 20 can be installed first, followed by the gas pipe assembly 30, or vice versa; this embodiment does not limit the specific installation.

[0102] Furthermore, in the disassembly / removal direction of the endotracheal assembly 30 and the liquid tubing assembly 20 relative to the other, the endotracheal assembly 30 and the liquid tubing assembly 20 do not interfere with each other. For example, the disassembly / removal direction is the height direction of the housing 10, and the liquid tubing assembly 20 and the endotracheal assembly 30 are sequentially installed within the housing 10 along this direction. Taking the liquid assembly as an example, a portion of the housing 10 is formed with an opening facing upwards along the height direction. After the liquid assembly is installed in the housing 10, the endotracheal assembly 30 is assembled from top to bottom, approaching the liquid tubing assembly 20. During disassembly, the endotracheal assembly 30 is first moved away from the liquid tubing assembly 20 from bottom to top. It should be noted that, to ensure smooth disassembly and assembly along the disassembly and assembly direction, the air tube assembly 30 and the liquid tube assembly 20 do not have any structures that obstruct each other in the disassembly and assembly direction. For example, on the path where the air tube assembly 30 approaches or moves away from the liquid tube assembly 20, the liquid tube assembly 20 does not have any structures that obstruct the air tube assembly 30, thus ensuring that the approach and movement of the liquid tube assembly 20 and the air tube assembly 30 towards each other along the disassembly and assembly direction are not interfered with. Of course, the liquid tube assembly 20 and the air tube assembly 30 can also be disassembled and assembled along the width or length direction of the housing 10, that is, the disassembly and assembly direction is the width or length direction of the housing 10, and this embodiment of the application does not limit this.

[0103] Therefore, during the assembly process of the refrigerant switching device 100 in this embodiment, the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the gas pipe assembly 30 can be sequentially installed on the housing 10. Furthermore, in the disassembly / reassembly direction where one of the gas pipe assembly 30 is closer to or further away from the other, the gas pipe assembly 30 and the liquid pipe assembly 20 do not interfere with each other, making disassembly and assembly more convenient. This reduces installation difficulty, improves installation efficiency, and reduces the labor intensity of operators. Compared with the related technology where the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the gas pipe assembly 30 are connected as a single unit before installation, the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the gas pipe assembly 30 installed in this embodiment are lighter, less prone to structural deformation, reduce installation problems, ensure product quality, and improve product yield.

[0104] Combination Figures 5 to 7 In some embodiments, the liquid tubing assembly 20 defines an installation space 20a with an opening along the disassembly / assembly direction, and the main body of the air tubing assembly 30 is disposed within the installation space 20a. As shown in the figure, in this embodiment, the two ends of the liquid tubing assembly 20 are higher than the middle portion, forming a recessed groove-like space, and the main body of the air tubing assembly 30 is located within this installation space 20a. Thus, the structures of the liquid tubing assembly 20 and the air tubing assembly 30 are more compact, and the space utilization rate is high.

[0105] In one embodiment, the main body of the endotracheal tube assembly 30 and the main body of the liquid tubing assembly 20 are stacked together along the disassembly / assembly direction. Optionally, the main body of the endotracheal tube assembly 30 is positioned above the main body of the liquid tubing assembly 20, allowing the endotracheal tube assembly 30 to move up and down along the disassembly / assembly direction to move closer to or further away from the liquid tubing assembly 20. Thus, by stacking the main body of the endotracheal tube assembly 30 and the main body of the liquid tubing assembly 20, while ensuring that the main bodies of the endotracheal tube assembly 30 and the liquid tubing assembly 20 do not interfere with each other in the disassembly / assembly direction, the disassembly / assembly of the endotracheal tube assembly 30 and the liquid tubing assembly 20 is made more convenient, thereby improving disassembly / assembly efficiency.

[0106] It is understandable that the tracheal tube assembly 30 may form the installation space 20a, and the liquid tube assembly 20 may be disposed within the installation space 20a; or the tracheal tube assembly 30 and the liquid tube assembly 20 may not form the installation space 20a, and the two may be stacked along the disassembly and assembly direction. The embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0107] The following explanation will continue with the example of installing the liquid tubing assembly 20 first and then the gas tubing assembly 30, with the installation and removal direction being the height direction of the housing 10.

[0108] like Figures 7 to 9 As shown, in one embodiment, the liquid pipeline assembly 20 includes a liquid control valve 21 and a liquid pipeline. The liquid pipeline includes a liquid pipe connector for connecting to a heat source unit and a load-side liquid pipe 232 for connecting to a load unit. The liquid control valve 21 is connected to the liquid pipeline to control the flow rate or opening and closing of the liquid pipeline. The liquid control valve 21 may be an electromagnetic expansion valve.

[0109] The liquid control valve 21 and the load-side liquid pipe 232 are positioned on opposite sides of the main body of the liquid pipeline, for example, on opposite sides of the main body of the liquid pipeline along the length of the housing 10. Optionally, the liquid control valve 21 and the load-side liquid pipe 232 are higher than the main body of the liquid pipeline in the height direction of the housing 10. Thus, the liquid control valve 21, the load-side liquid pipe 232, and the main body of the liquid pipeline form the aforementioned installation space 20a. The installation space 20a has an upper opening along the height direction of the housing 10, and the air hose assembly 30 is placed inside the installation space 20a from top to bottom. The main body of the air hose assembly 30 is located between the liquid control valve 21 and the load-side liquid pipe 232, and is stacked with the main body of the liquid pipeline. In this way, the main body of the air hose assembly 30 is surrounded by the liquid hose assembly 20, resulting in a more compact structure and improved space utilization.

[0110] In one embodiment, the liquid control valve 21 includes a heat source-side connection portion 212 and a load-side connection portion 211, and the liquid pipeline includes a first pipeline 22 and a second pipeline 23. The first pipeline 22 is connected to the heat source-side connection portion 212 and is closer to the heat source unit than the liquid control valve 21. The main body of the first pipeline 22 is disposed on a first horizontal plane. The second pipeline 23 is connected to the load-side connection portion 211 and is disposed on a second horizontal plane. A load-side liquid pipe 232 is provided at one end of the second pipeline 23 away from the load-side connection portion 211. The second horizontal plane is spaced above the first horizontal plane, and the main body of the gas pipe assembly 30 is disposed on the main body of the second pipeline 23.

[0111] Understandably, when the liquid control valve 21 is open, the working fluid can flow from the heat source unit through the first pipeline 22, through the liquid control valve 21, and then through the second pipeline 23 to the load unit, or the working fluid can flow from the load unit through the second pipeline 23, through the liquid control valve 21, and then through the first pipeline 22 to the heat source unit.

[0112] In this embodiment, the first pipe 22 and the second pipe 23 are located between the liquid control valve 21 and the load unit, forming a circuitous flow path. Compared to the liquid control valve 21 being located between the first pipe 22 and the second pipe 23, this arrangement allows for structural folding, reducing the overall length of the liquid pipe assembly 20. Furthermore, the main body of the first pipe 22 and the main body of the second pipe 23 are separated, making the structure clearer and eliminating the need for complex structural considerations during production and assembly. Moreover, the main body of the first pipe 22 and the main body of the second pipe 23 are respectively located on a first horizontal plane and a second horizontal plane. This arrangement of the main structural parts of the liquid pipe assembly 20 on two horizontal planes not only further simplifies the structure but also makes the liquid pipe assembly 20 more compact, reducing its thickness and effectively minimizing its space requirements. Consequently, when the gas pipe assembly 30 is mounted on the liquid pipe assembly 20, the overall structure of both is thinner, facilitating the miniaturization of both the gas pipe assembly 30 and the liquid pipe assembly 20.

[0113] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, "the pipeline portion located on the horizontal plane" means that the central axis of the pipeline is located on that horizontal plane. For example, the central axis of the main body of the first pipeline 22 is located on the first horizontal plane.

[0114] Combination Figures 8 to 9In some embodiments, the first pipeline 22 includes at least one liquid manifold 22a and a plurality of liquid branch pipes 22b communicating with the liquid manifold 22a. The liquid manifold 22a extends along a first direction and is spaced apart from the liquid control valve 21 along a second direction. The liquid branch pipes 22b extend along the second direction. One end of each liquid branch pipe 22b in the second direction is connected to a heat source side connection 212, and the other end is connected to the liquid manifold 22a. The first direction is parallel to a first horizontal plane, and the first and second directions are perpendicular to each other. Optionally, the first direction is the length direction of the housing 10, and the second direction is the width range of the housing 10. By arranging the liquid manifold 22a to merge multiple liquid branch pipes 22b, the pipeline length of each liquid branch pipe 22b is reduced, thereby effectively reducing costs and further solving the problem of high cost in the refrigerant switching device 100, thus meeting the needs of low-cost production. In addition, the liquid manifold 22a and the liquid branch pipes 22b extending along the mutually perpendicular first and second directions respectively make the structure of the liquid pipe assembly 20 clearer and more compact.

[0115] In one structural implementation of the liquid pipe assembly 20, the number of liquid manifolds 22a is one. By setting a single liquid manifold, the structure of the liquid pipe assembly 20 is simpler, easier to install, and the volume of the refrigerant switching device 100 is reduced.

[0116] In another structural implementation of the liquid pipe assembly 20, there are three liquid manifolds 22a, namely a main liquid pipe 221, a cooling branch liquid pipe 222, and a heating branch liquid pipe 223. The main liquid pipe 221 is used to connect with the heat source unit. The cooling branch liquid pipe 222 and the heating branch liquid pipe 223 are branched from the main liquid pipe 221. Two liquid branches are formed from each liquid branch pipe 22b, which are defined as a branch liquid pipe 225 and a bypass liquid pipe 226, respectively. Each branch liquid pipe 225 is connected to the heating branch liquid pipe 223 and is configured to flow unidirectionally from the branch liquid pipe 225 to the heating branch liquid pipe 223. Each bypass liquid pipe 226 is connected to the cooling branch liquid pipe 222 and is configured to flow unidirectionally from the cooling branch liquid pipe 222 to the bypass liquid pipe 226.

[0117] The main liquid pipe 221 extends at least partially outside the housing 10 to communicate with the heat source unit. The cooling branch liquid pipe 222 and the heating branch liquid pipe 223 are located inside the housing 10 and are both connected to the main liquid pipe 221. Each liquid branch pipe 22b is connected to the cooling branch liquid pipe 222 and the heating branch liquid pipe 223.

[0118] Combination Figure 8In one embodiment, the load-side connection 211 extends along a vertical direction, which is perpendicular to the first and second directions, and can be selected as the mounting direction of the housing 10. The load-side connection 211 is spaced apart above the first horizontal plane, and the heat source-side connection 212 extends along the second direction close to the liquid manifold 22a. The different orientations of the heat source-side connection 212 and the load-side connection 211 facilitate pipeline assembly and connection. Furthermore, the fact that the load-side connection 211 extends along the vertical direction and the heat source-side connection 212 extends along the second direction close to the liquid manifold 22a not only reduces the length of the first pipeline 22 and the second pipeline 23, but also keeps the load-side connection 211 and the heat source-side connection 212 in a vertical plane perpendicular to the first direction, thereby reducing space occupation and making the liquid pipe assembly 20 more compact.

[0119] Specifically, the first pipeline 22 includes a first main pipe and a first transition section 224. The first main pipe is located on a first horizontal plane and is the main body of the liquid branch pipe 22b, branching into a branch liquid pipe 225 and a bypass liquid pipe 226. The first transition section 224 is located at one end of the first main pipe near the liquid control valve 21 and extends upward from the first main pipe to the heat source side connection section 212. The second pipeline 23 includes a second main pipe 231 and a second transition section 233. The second main pipe 231 is located on a second horizontal plane, and the second transition section 233 extends upward from the second main pipe 231 to the load side connection section 211.

[0120] Combination Figure 8 and Figure 9 In one embodiment, branch liquid pipes 225 and bypass liquid pipes 226 are formed from each first main pipe branch. Each branch liquid pipe 225 is connected to a heating branch liquid pipe 223 and is configured to flow unidirectionally from the branch liquid pipe 225 to the heating branch liquid pipe 223. Each bypass liquid pipe 226 is connected to a cooling branch liquid pipe 222 and is configured to flow unidirectionally from the cooling branch liquid pipe 222 to the bypass liquid pipe 226. The refrigerant switching device 100 includes a heating mode and a cooling mode. In the heating mode, the refrigerant flows unidirectionally from the cooling branch liquid pipe 222 to the bypass liquid pipe 226, and then from the bypass liquid pipe 226 through the liquid control valve 21 and the second pipe 23 to the load unit for heat exchange. In the cooling mode, the refrigerant flows unidirectionally from the second pipe 23 through the liquid control valve 21 and the branch liquid pipe 225 to the heating branch liquid pipe 223.

[0121] One end of the main liquid pipe 221 in the first direction is connected to one end of the refrigeration branch liquid pipe 222 in the first direction, and the other end of the refrigeration branch liquid pipe 222 in the first direction is a closed end; moreover, the other end of the main liquid pipe 221 in the first direction is connected to one end of the heating branch liquid pipe 223 in the first direction, and the other end of the heating branch liquid pipe 223 in the first direction is a closed end to prevent refrigerant leakage.

[0122] Furthermore, the main liquid pipe 221, the refrigeration branch liquid pipe 222, and the heating branch liquid pipe 223 are all located on the first horizontal plane. The main liquid pipe 221, the refrigeration branch liquid pipe 222, and the heating branch liquid pipe 223 are arranged side by side at intervals along the second direction. Arranging the main liquid pipe 221, the refrigeration branch liquid pipe 222, and the heating branch liquid pipe 223 in the same plane is beneficial for production and structural design. It also allows as much of the structure of the first pipeline 22 as possible to be arranged on the first horizontal plane, resulting in a simpler and more compact structure and reducing the space occupied in the vertical direction.

[0123] Combination Figure 9 In one embodiment, at least a portion of the branch liquid pipe 225 and at least a portion of the bypass liquid pipe 226 are arranged side by side and both extend along the second direction, thereby making the structure of the first pipeline 22 simpler and more compact. The main liquid pipe 221, the cooling branch liquid pipe 222, and the heating branch liquid pipe 223 are arranged side by side at intervals along the second direction. The cooling branch liquid pipe 222 is located on the side of the heating branch liquid pipe 223 away from the liquid control valve 21, and the main liquid pipe 221 is further located on the side of the cooling branch liquid pipe 222 away from the heating branch liquid pipe 223.

[0124] In one embodiment, one end of the second main tube 231 is connected to the vertically downward load-side connection portion 211, and the second main tube 231 extends towards the load unit along a second direction, while the heat source-side connection portion 212 and the load-side connection portion 211 are on the same vertical plane. The second main tube 231 includes a clearance portion 2311 that bypasses the first transition portion 224, and the remaining portion of the second main tube 231 is located on the vertical plane where the load-side connection portion 211 and the heat source-side connection portion are located. Thus, by avoiding the first transition portion 224 through the clearance portion 2311, interference between the first pipe 22 and the second pipe 23 is avoided. The portion of the second main tube 231 other than the clearance portion 2311 is located on the vertical plane where the load-side connection portion 211 and the heat source-side connection portion are located, thereby making the liquid pipe assembly 20 more compact and reducing space occupation.

[0125] Combination Figure 9In one embodiment, the end of the second pipe 23 furthest from the liquid control valve 21 is used to connect to the load unit. At the end of the second pipe 23 closest to the load unit, the second pipe 23 also includes a first filter pipe 24 and a third transition section 234. The first filter pipe 24 removes mechanical impurities and dirt from the pipe, ensuring smooth refrigerant flow and preventing blockages from affecting the normal operation of the HVAC system. The first filter pipe 24 is located on a first horizontal plane, and the third transition section 234 extends downwards from the second main pipe 231 to the first horizontal plane and connects to the first filter pipe 24. Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the first filter pipe 24 is positioned downwards on the first horizontal plane, creating a height difference between it and the second horizontal plane. This provides space for some of the gas pipe components 30 on the first filter pipe 24, facilitating disassembly and assembly and avoiding interference. Furthermore, the first horizontal plane is closer to the bottom of the housing 10, allowing for convenient maintenance of the first filter pipe 24 by removing the bottom casing of the housing 10, thus improving work efficiency.

[0126] Optionally, the first filter tube 24 is located on the side of the liquid manifold 22a away from the liquid control valve 21. The liquid manifold 22a is located on the first horizontal plane. To avoid conflict, the first filter tube 24 is located to the side of the liquid manifold 22a. This location on the side of the liquid manifold 22a away from the liquid control valve 21 avoids the third transition section 234 from turning too sharply with other parts of the second main pipe 231, which would be inconvenient to manufacture. This reduces the structural complexity of the second pipeline 23 and allows it to be as close as possible to the load unit, thereby ensuring the filtration effect.

[0127] Furthermore, the second conduit 23 also includes a load-side liquid conduit 232 and a fourth transition section 235. The load-side liquid conduit 232 extends along the second direction for connection to the load unit. The load-side liquid conduit 232 is higher than the second horizontal plane, thus allowing it to be offset vertically from the air conduit portion of the air conduit assembly 30 for connection to the load unit, facilitating connection. One end of the fourth transition section 235 is connected to the first filter tube 24, and the other end extends upward to connect to the load-side liquid conduit 232.

[0128] Combination Figure 10 and Figure 11In some embodiments, the gas pipe assembly 30 includes a gas manifold 30a, a plurality of gas branches 35, and a gas control valve 351. The gas manifold 30a extends along a first direction, and the plurality of gas branches 35 are spaced apart along the first direction and converge at the gas manifold 30a. The gas manifold 30a is closer to the connected heat source unit than each gas branch 35. By merging multiple parallel gas branches 35 into the gas manifold 30a, the length of each gas branch 35 is reduced, thereby effectively reducing costs. The gas control valve 351 is connected to the gas branches 35 and is used to control the on / off state of the gas passage within the gas branches 35. Each gas branch 35 is provided with at least one gas control valve 351, and the plurality of gas control valves 351 on the plurality of gas branches 35 are configured in at least one row arranged along the first direction. Figure 10 As shown, exemplarily, each gas branch pipe 35 is provided with three gas control valves 351, and the gas control valves 351 are configured to be arranged in three rows side by side along the second direction, with the gas control valves 351 in each row arranged at intervals along the first direction. In this embodiment, the gas manifold 30a and one row of gas control valves 351 are provided at both ends of the gas branch pipe 35 along the second direction, so that the gas manifold 30a, the gas branch pipe 35 and the gas control valves 351 constitute the main body of the gas pipe assembly 30. The gas manifold 30a and the gas control valves 351 are located between the liquid control valve 21 and the load-side liquid pipe 232, which facilitates the pipeline layout of the gas pipe assembly 30, making the gas pipe assembly 30 compact and easy to manufacture and assemble.

[0129] Optionally, the gas manifold 30a is located above the first filter tube 24. In conjunction with the foregoing, the first filter tube 24 is located on a first horizontal plane, and the third transition portion 234, the first filter tube 24, and the fourth transition portion 235 form a concave avoidance corner, thereby avoiding the gas manifold 30a. The gas manifold 30a is located above the first filter tube 24, and there is sufficient distance between the gas manifold 30a and the third transition portion 234, the first filter tube 24, and the fourth transition portion 235. This not only avoids interference between the gas pipe assembly 30 and the liquid pipe assembly 20, but also facilitates installation and maintenance / replacement of the first filter tube 24, improving work efficiency.

[0130] The gas branch pipe 35 includes a load-side gas pipe 352 for connecting to the load unit. The load-side gas pipe 352 is located on the side of the gas manifold 30a away from the gas control valve 351 to facilitate the bending arrangement of the load-side gas pipe 352. Please refer to the reference. Figure 5 and Figure 6In some embodiments, the multiple load-side gas pipes 352 of the multiple gas branch pipes 35 are spaced apart along a first direction and are vertically offset from the load-side liquid pipes 232 in the disassembly / assembly direction. For example, in the disassembly / assembly direction, the multiple load-side liquid pipes 232 are located above the multiple load-side gas pipes 352, or the multiple load-side gas pipes 352 may be located above the multiple load-side liquid pipes 232. In short, there is sufficient spacing between the load-side liquid pipes 232 and the load-side gas pipes 352, which avoids interference between them and provides operating space for connecting the load-side liquid pipes 232 and the load-side gas pipes 352 to the indoor unit, thus providing operational convenience.

[0131] In one specific embodiment, the gas branch pipe 35 further includes a second filter pipe 36, a fifth transition section 37, and a sixth transition section 38. The second filter pipe 36 removes mechanical impurities and contaminants from the pipeline, ensuring smooth refrigerant flow and preventing blockages from affecting the normal operation of the HVAC system. The second filter pipe 36 is located on the first horizontal plane and is arranged parallel to the first filter pipe 24. The fifth transition section 37 extends downward to the first horizontal plane and connects to the second filter pipe 36. The sixth transition section 38 extends upward from the second filter pipe 36 and connects to the load-side gas pipe 352. Thus, the second filter pipe 36, the fifth transition section 37, and the sixth transition section 38 combine to form another avoidance bend, allowing this part of the pipeline to pass over the bottom of the gas manifold 30a and connect to the load-side gas pipe 352, facilitating pipeline layout. In this embodiment, both the second filter pipe 36 and the first filter pipe 24 are located on the first horizontal plane, facilitating simultaneous maintenance of both the first filter pipe 24 and the second filter pipe 36, reducing operational difficulty, and improving work efficiency.

[0132] It should be noted that, in one embodiment, the gas manifold 30a can be a separate pipeline. In another embodiment, the gas manifold 30a includes a high-pressure gas pipe 32 and a low-pressure gas pipe 31, branching from the gas branch pipe 35 to form two gas branches, defined as a bypass gas pipe 33 and a branch gas pipe 34, respectively. The bypass gas pipe 33 is connected to the low-pressure gas pipe 31, and the branch gas pipe 34 is connected to the high-pressure gas pipe 32. The bypass gas pipe 33 and the branch gas pipe 34 are each equipped with at least one gas control valve 351. It can be understood that the high-pressure gas pipe 32 is mainly responsible for receiving the high-pressure gaseous heat exchange medium from the heat source unit, which is then transported to the load unit via the subsequent branch gas pipe 34. The low-pressure gas pipe 31 is responsible for transporting the low-pressure gaseous heat exchange medium from the load unit back to the heat source unit via the bypass gas pipe 33 and the branch gas pipe 34. In a multi-split system, the low-pressure refrigerant generated by each load unit returns to the heat source unit through the low-pressure gas pipe 31, absorbs heat in the evaporator, and is then compressed again by the compressor. This cyclical process enables the HVAC system to continuously provide cooling.

[0133] Furthermore, in this embodiment, both the low-pressure gas pipe 31 and the high-pressure gas pipe 32 are at least partially located inside the housing 10, and both the high-pressure gas pipe 32 and the low-pressure gas pipe 31 extend outside the housing 10 to facilitate communication with the heat source unit. Optionally, the low-pressure gas pipe 31 and the high-pressure gas pipe 32 are stacked at intervals in the disassembly and assembly direction, and the bypass gas pipe 33 and the branch gas pipe 34 are located on one side of the low-pressure gas pipe 31 and the high-pressure gas pipe 32 to facilitate pipeline layout and production.

[0134] like Figures 3 to 6 As shown, in one embodiment, the main liquid pipe 221 includes a main body portion disposed on a first horizontal plane and a liquid outlet pipe. The liquid outlet pipe connects to at least one end of the main liquid pipe 221 along a first direction and extends upward along the disassembly / assembly direction. Optionally, the liquid outlet pipe is located on the side of the gas manifold 30a away from the liquid control valve 21 and is used to connect to the heat source unit. By providing the liquid outlet pipe, the portion of the main liquid pipe 221 connected to the heat source unit is not on the same vertical line as the low-pressure gas pipe 31 and the high-pressure gas pipe 32. This means that the liquid outlet pipe is staggered from the low-pressure gas pipe 31 and the high-pressure gas pipe 32, further avoiding interference between the gas pipe assembly 30 and the liquid pipe assembly 20, and ensuring the smooth assembly of the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the gas pipe assembly 30 in sequence.

[0135] The gas manifold 30a is provided with a gas pipe connection portion extending out of the housing 10 along at least one side in a first direction, specifically divided into a low-pressure gas pipe connection portion 31 and a high-pressure gas pipe connection portion 32. The liquid pipe outlet 2211 is provided with a liquid pipe connection portion 2212 extending out of the housing 10 along at least one side in the first direction. The gas pipe connection portion and the liquid pipe connection portion 2212 are used to connect to the pipelines extending from the heat source unit by means of welding, sleeve connection, etc. In one embodiment, to facilitate pipeline layout and connection operation, the gas pipe connection portion and the liquid pipe connection portion 2212 are located on the same side of the housing 10 and are arranged at intervals along the disassembly and assembly direction. The gas pipe connection portion and the liquid pipe connection portion 2212 are staggered to avoid interference and further facilitate connection operation.

[0136] Combined with reference Figure 2 and Figure 12 In some embodiments, the housing 10 includes a housing body 11, a chassis 12, and a support beam 13. The chassis 12 is disposed at the bottom of the housing body 11 and connected to the housing body 11. The support beam 13 is connected to the housing body 11 for mounting the liquid tubing assembly 20 and the gas tubing assembly 30.

[0137] The shell body 11 has a cover structure and includes a top plate 111 and multiple side plates 112 surrounding the top plate 111. The top plate 111 is disposed opposite to the chassis 12. The multiple side plates 112 define downward-facing openings. The chassis 12 covers the openings and is detachably connected to the shell body 11. It should be noted that the multiple side plates 112 include a load-side side plate 1121, a heat source-side side plate 1122, and an electrical control-side side plate 1123. A load-side port 112a is provided on the load-side side plate 1121 for the load-side liquid pipe 232 and load-side gas pipe 352 communicating with the load unit to pass through, while a heat source-side port 112b is provided on the heat source-side side plate 1122 for the gas pipe connection part and liquid pipe connection part 2212 communicating with the heat source unit to pass through. The electronic control components of the refrigerant switching device 100 are mounted on the chassis 12 and located near the electronic control side plate 1123. The detachable connection between the chassis 12 and the housing body 11 can be a connection between the chassis 12 and multiple side plates 112. Specifically, protruding connecting lugs or similar structures can be provided on the chassis 12, and these structures can be detachably connected to the chassis 12 using screws or other threaded structures, thus achieving a detachable connection between the chassis 12 and the housing body 11.

[0138] The refrigerant switching device 100 is defined to have a length direction and a width direction. Multiple side plates 112 may include two first side plates 112 arranged opposite each other along the length direction and two second side plates 112 arranged opposite each other along the width direction. The two second side plates 112 are connected between the ends of the two first side plates 112 to form a downward-facing opening. A chassis 12 is detachably connected to the multiple side plates 112 to cover the opening, thereby suspending the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the gas pipe assembly 30 above the chassis 12. This allows for direct maintenance of parts of the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the gas pipe assembly 30 when the chassis 12 is disassembled.

[0139] For example, the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the air pipe assembly 30 are provided with at least one filter pipe and at least one one-way valve, with the filter pipe and the one-way valve located on the horizontal plane of the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the air pipe near the chassis 12. Specifically, the first filter pipe 24 and the second filter pipe 36 are both located on the first horizontal plane, which is located near the chassis 12. In addition, the bypass liquid pipe and the branch liquid pipe 225 are both provided with one-way valves to achieve unidirectional flow, and the bypass liquid pipe and the branch liquid pipe 225 are arranged side by side on the first horizontal plane. Thus, after the chassis 12 is removed, the first filter pipe 24, the second filter pipe 36, the bypass liquid pipe, and the branch liquid pipe 225 are all exposed in the opening of the housing 10 after the chassis 12 is removed, and are located at the bottom of the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the air pipe assembly 30, allowing workers to directly perform maintenance, disassembly, and other operations, making the operation more convenient and improving work efficiency.

[0140] The supporting beam 13 includes a first beam 131 and a second beam 132, which are spaced apart along a second direction and extend along a first direction. The first beam 131 is used to mount the liquid pipe assembly 20, and the second beam 132 is used to mount the air pipe assembly 30. During assembly, the liquid pipe assembly 20 is first installed by fixing the first beam 131, and then the air pipe assembly 30 is installed by fixing the second beam 132. This facilitates the installation of the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the air pipe assembly 30 in two separate steps.

[0141] Please combine Figures 13 to 15 In some embodiments, the refrigerant switching device 100 further includes a buffer 16, which is disposed between the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the chassis 12 to fill the gap between the bottom structure of the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the chassis 12, thereby improving the stability of the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the gas pipe assembly 30. This prevents the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the gas pipe assembly 30 from impacting the housing 10 and causing structural damage when the refrigerant switching device 100 shakes, thus improving structural reliability.

[0142] Optionally, to improve the cushioning effect, the cushioning element 16 is made of sponge or rubber, which has sufficient elasticity, providing better cushioning while offering support. Further, such as... Figure 16 As shown, the buffer 16 may also be provided with contoured grooves, and at least a portion of the liquid pipe assembly 20 is disposed within the contoured grooves. Exemplarily, the buffer 16 covers the portion where the liquid manifold 22a is located and has multiple contoured grooves. The main liquid pipe 221, the heating branch liquid pipe 223, and the cooling branch liquid pipe 222 are respectively disposed within the multiple contoured grooves. The size of the contoured grooves is adapted to each pipe section, thereby further improving the stability of the liquid pipe assembly 20 and the gas pipe assembly 30.

[0143] This embodiment also provides a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, including the refrigerant switching device 100 described in the above embodiments. The structure of the refrigerant switching device 100 has been described in detail in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here.

[0144] like Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, in some structural configurations, the refrigerant switching device 100 further includes a subcooling assembly 50. The subcooling assembly 50 is housed within the housing 10 and is connected to the refrigerant branch pipe 222 and the main pipe 221. The subcooling assembly 50 is used to increase the subcooling degree of the refrigerant flowing from the main pipe 221 to the refrigerant branch pipe 222, bringing it closer to saturation, thereby increasing the efficiency of the refrigeration cycle. This allows for the provision of more cooling capacity under the same operating conditions, improving the performance and energy efficiency ratio of the HVAC system.

[0145] Furthermore, the subcooling assembly 50 includes a heat exchanger 51, an electronic expansion valve 52, a main inlet pipe 53, a main outlet pipe 54, an auxiliary pipe 55, and a tee pipe 56. The heat exchanger 51 has a main flow path and an auxiliary flow path. The heat exchange medium in the auxiliary flow path is used to cool the heat exchange medium in the main flow path. By dividing the heat exchanger 51 into a main flow path and an auxiliary flow path, and utilizing the heat exchange medium in the auxiliary flow path to cool the heat exchange medium in the main flow path, the efficiency of the heat exchanger 51 can be effectively improved. This internal circulation design allows the refrigeration system to make fuller use of the refrigerant's heat, improving refrigeration efficiency and thus achieving a faster and more energy-efficient refrigeration process.

[0146] In addition, the HVAC system provided in this embodiment should also include a heat source unit and multiple load units. The load units may include, but are not limited to, ceiling-mounted units, duct units, wall-mounted air conditioning load units, and floor-standing air conditioning load units, etc. The following describes the refrigerant flow of the HVAC system provided in this embodiment under different modes using four load units as an example.

[0147] Please combine Figures 19 to 22 , Figure 19 This is a refrigerant flow diagram for each load unit in the HVAC system provided in the embodiments of this application, all in cooling mode. Figure 20 A refrigerant flow diagram for each load unit in the heating system provided in this application embodiment, all in heating mode. Figure 21 This application provides a diagram showing the refrigerant flow direction of a majority of load units in a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system under cooling conditions, as provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 22 This is a diagram showing the refrigerant flow of a majority of load units in the heating system provided in this application embodiment under heating conditions. For ease of description, the operating mode of the load unit shown in the diagram is referred to as the full cooling mode, the operating mode of the load unit shown in the diagram is referred to as the full heating mode, the operating mode of the load unit shown in the diagram is referred to as the main cooling mode, and the operating mode of the load unit shown in the diagram is referred to as the main heating mode.

[0148] like Figure 19 As shown, in full refrigeration mode, the refrigerant flows as follows: heat source unit → main liquid pipe 221 → heat exchanger 51 → refrigeration branch liquid pipe 222 → bypass liquid pipe 226 → second pipe 23 → load unit → gas branch pipe 35 → bypass gas pipe 33 → low-pressure gas pipe 31 → heat source unit. This completes one refrigeration cycle.

[0149] like Figure 20 As shown, in full heating mode, the refrigerant flows as follows: heat source unit → high-pressure gas pipe 32 → branch gas pipe 34 → gas branch pipe 35 → load unit → indoor unit liquid pipe → branch liquid pipe 225 → refrigerant branch liquid pipe 222 → main liquid pipe 221 → heat source unit. This completes one heating cycle.

[0150] like Figure 21 As shown, in the main cooling mode, the refrigerant flows as follows: heat source unit → high-pressure gas pipe 32 → branch gas pipe 34 → gas branch pipe 35 → load unit → second pipe 23 → branch liquid pipe 225 → cooling branch liquid pipe 222 → main liquid pipe 221 → heat source unit. This completes one heating cycle.

[0151] For the load unit in refrigeration mode, the refrigerant flow direction is always: heat source unit → main liquid pipe 221 → heat exchanger 51 → refrigeration branch liquid pipe 222 → bypass liquid pipe 226 → branch liquid pipe 225 → second pipe 23 → load unit → gas branch pipe 35 → bypass gas pipe 33 → low-pressure gas pipe 31 → heat source unit. After the refrigerant flows out of the heat exchanger 51, a portion will be diverted along the electronic expansion valve 52 → auxiliary pipe 55 → low-pressure gas pipe 31 → heat source unit. In this way, one refrigeration cycle is completed.

[0152] like Figure 22 As shown, in the main heating mode, the refrigerant flows as follows: heat source unit → high-pressure gas pipe 32 → branch gas pipe 34 → gas branch pipe 35 → load unit → second pipe 23 → branch liquid pipe 225 → refrigerant branch liquid pipe 222 → main liquid pipe 221 → heat source unit. This completes one heating cycle.

[0153] For the load unit in cooling mode, during operation in heating mode, when the refrigerant flows to the main liquid pipe 221, a portion is diverted to the heat exchanger 51. The refrigerant flow direction is: heat exchanger 51 → cooling branch liquid pipe 222 → bypass liquid pipe 226 → branch liquid pipe 225 → second pipe 23 → load unit → gas branch pipe 35 → bypass gas pipe 33 → low-pressure gas pipe 31 → heat source unit. After the refrigerant flows out of the heat exchanger 51, a portion is diverted along the electronic expansion valve 52 → auxiliary pipe 55 → low-pressure gas pipe 31 → heat source unit. This completes one refrigeration cycle.

[0154] It should be noted that, taking the four load units in this embodiment as an example, in the main cooling mode, three load units can be cooling and one load unit can be heating; in the main heating mode, three load units can be heating and one load unit can be cooling. Here, no specific restrictions are placed on the number of load units or the actual cooling mode.

[0155] In the accompanying drawings of this embodiment, the same or similar reference numerals correspond to the same or similar components. In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, they are only for the convenience of describing this application 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. Therefore, the terms used to describe positional relationships in the drawings are only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting this application. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0156] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A refrigerant switching device, characterized in that, include: case; as well as The liquid pipe assembly and the air pipe assembly are separately configured and installed inside the housing. In the disassembly and assembly direction, the air pipe assembly and the liquid pipe assembly do not interfere with each other, with one of the air pipe assembly and the other being closer to or farther away from the other.

2. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid tubing assembly defines an installation space with an opening along the disassembly / assembly direction, and the main body of the gas tubing assembly is located within the installation space.

3. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, In the disassembly / assembly direction, the main body of the air tube assembly and the main body of the liquid tube assembly are stacked together.

4. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The liquid tubing assembly includes Liquid control valves; and The liquid pipeline includes a liquid pipe connector for connecting to a heat source unit and a load-side liquid pipe for connecting to a load unit. The liquid control valve is connected to the liquid pipeline to control the flow rate or opening and closing of the flow path of the liquid pipeline. The liquid control valve and the load-side liquid pipe are disposed on opposite sides of the main body of the liquid pipeline, and the main body of the gas pipe assembly is located between the liquid control valve and the load-side liquid pipe, and is stacked with the main body of the liquid pipeline.

5. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The liquid control valve includes a heat source side connection and a load side connection, and the liquid pipeline includes: A first pipeline, connected to the heat source side connection, is closer to the heat source unit than the liquid control valve, and its main body is positioned on a first horizontal plane; and The second pipeline is connected to the load-side connection part. The main body of the second pipeline is disposed on the second horizontal plane. The end of the second pipeline away from the load-side connection part is provided with the load-side liquid pipe. The second horizontal plane is positioned above the first horizontal plane at intervals, and the main body of the tracheal assembly is positioned on the main body of the second pipeline.

6. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The first pipeline includes at least one liquid manifold and a plurality of liquid branch pipes communicating with the liquid manifold. The liquid manifold extends along a first direction and is spaced apart from the liquid control valve along a second direction. The liquid branch pipes extend along the second direction. One end of each liquid branch pipe in the second direction is connected to a heat source side connection, and the other end is connected to the liquid manifold. The first direction is parallel to the first horizontal plane. The first direction and the second direction are perpendicular to each other and both are perpendicular to the disassembly / assembly direction.

7. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The number of liquid manifolds is three: a main liquid manifold, a cooling branch liquid manifold, and a heating branch liquid manifold. The main liquid manifold is used to connect to the heat source unit. The cooling branch liquid manifold and the heating branch liquid manifold are formed from the main liquid manifold. Each of the liquid branch liquid manifolds forms two liquid branches, which are defined as a branch liquid manifold and a bypass liquid manifold, respectively. Each branch liquid manifold is connected to the heating branch liquid manifold and is configured to flow from the branch liquid manifold to the heating branch liquid manifold. Each bypass liquid manifold is connected to the cooling branch liquid manifold and is configured to flow from the cooling branch liquid manifold to the bypass liquid manifold.

8. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The main liquid pipe, the cooling branch liquid pipe, and the heating branch liquid pipe are all located on the first horizontal plane; And / or, at least a portion of the branch fluid pipe and at least a portion of the bypass fluid pipe are arranged side by side and located on the first horizontal plane.

9. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The load-side connection extends along the disassembly / assembly direction, and the load-side connection is spaced apart above the first horizontal plane. The heat source-side connection extends along the second direction close to the liquid manifold. The first pipeline includes a first main pipe and a first transition section. The first main pipe is located on the first horizontal plane, and the first transition section extends upward from the first main pipe to the heat source side connection section. The second pipeline includes a second main pipe and a second transition section. The second main pipe is located on the second horizontal plane, and the second transition section extends upward from the second main pipe to the load-side connection section.

10. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The second main tube includes a clearance portion that bypasses the first transition portion, and the remaining portion of the second main tube is located on the vertical plane where the load-side connection portion and the heat source connection portion are located.

11. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The tracheal assembly includes: A gas manifold extends along the first direction; Gas branch pipes are arranged at intervals along the first direction, and multiple gas branch pipes converge into a gas manifold, wherein the gas manifold is closer to the heat source unit than each individual gas branch pipe; and A gas control valve is connected to the gas branch pipe such that each gas branch pipe is provided with at least one gas control valve, and a plurality of gas control valves are configured in at least one row along the first direction; The gas manifold and one row of gas control valves are disposed at both ends of the gas branch pipe along the second direction, and the gas manifold and the gas control valves are located between the liquid control valve and the load-side liquid pipe.

12. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The gas branch pipe also includes a load-side gas pipe for connecting the load unit, the load-side gas pipe being located on the side of the gas manifold away from the gas control valve; Multiple load-side air pipes are spaced apart along the first direction and are vertically offset from the load-side liquid pipes in the assembly / disassembly direction.

13. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The second pipeline includes a second main pipe and a second transition section. The second main pipe is located on the second horizontal plane, and the second transition section extends upward from the second main pipe to the load-side connection section. The second pipeline includes a first filter tube, a third transition section, and a fourth transition section. The first filter tube is located on the first horizontal plane. The third transition section extends downward from the second main tube to the first horizontal plane and connects to the first filter tube. The load-side liquid tube is higher than the second horizontal plane. One end of the fourth transition section is connected to the first filter tube, and the other end extends upward and connects to the load-side liquid tube.

14. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The gas manifold is located above the first filter tube.

15. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The gas branch pipe further includes a second filter pipe, a fifth transition section and a sixth transition section. The second filter pipe is located on the first horizontal plane and is arranged side by side with the first filter pipe. The fifth transition section extends downward to the first horizontal plane and connects to the second filter pipe. The sixth transition section extends upward from the second filter pipe and connects to the load-side gas pipe.

16. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The gas manifold includes a high-pressure gas pipe and a low-pressure gas pipe. It branches off from the gas branch pipe to form two gas branches, which are defined as a bypass gas pipe and a branch gas pipe, respectively. The bypass gas pipe is connected to the low-pressure gas pipe, and the branch gas pipe is connected to the high-pressure gas pipe. At least one gas control valve is provided on the bypass gas pipe and the branch gas pipe, respectively. The high-pressure air pipe and the low-pressure air pipe are stacked at intervals in the disassembly and assembly direction.

17. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The main liquid pipe includes an upwardly extending liquid outlet pipe located on the side of the gas manifold away from the liquid control valve.

18. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 17, characterized in that, The gas manifold is provided with a gas pipe connection portion that extends out of the housing along at least one side in the first direction, and the liquid pipe outlet is provided with a liquid pipe connection portion that extends out of the housing along at least one side in the first direction. The gas pipe connection and the liquid pipe connection are located on the same side of the housing and are arranged at intervals along the disassembly and assembly direction, and the gas pipe connection and the liquid pipe connection are staggered.

19. The refrigerant switching device as described in any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, The housing includes a housing body, a chassis, and a support beam. The chassis is disposed at the bottom of the housing body, and the support beam is connected to the housing body for mounting the liquid tubing assembly and the gas tubing assembly. The chassis is detachably connected to the shell body.

20. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 19, characterized in that, The main body of the gas pipe assembly is suspended on the main body of the liquid pipe assembly, and the portion of the liquid pipe assembly located inside the housing is suspended on the chassis. The refrigerant switching device further includes: A buffer element is provided between the liquid tubing assembly and the chassis.

21. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 20, characterized in that, The cushioning element is a sponge or rubber component; and / or, The buffer is provided with a contoured groove, and at least a portion of the liquid tube assembly is located within the contoured groove.

22. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 19, characterized in that, The liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe assembly are provided with at least one filter pipe and at least one one-way valve, with at least one filter pipe and at least one one-way valve located on the horizontal plane of the liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe near the chassis.

23. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 19, characterized in that, The shell body includes a top plate and a plurality of side plates surrounding the top plate, the plurality of side plates defining a downwardly facing opening, and the chassis sealing the opening; The two ends of the supporting beam are respectively connected to the two oppositely arranged side plates.

24. The refrigerant switching device as described in claim 23, characterized in that, The supporting beam includes a first beam and a second beam that are spaced apart along the second direction and extend along the first direction; The first beam is used to mount the liquid tubing assembly, and the second beam is used to mount the gas tubing assembly.

25. An air conditioning system, characterized in that, include: Heat source unit; Load unit; and The refrigerant switching device according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the liquid pipe assembly and the gas pipe assembly are connected to the heat source unit and the load unit.

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