reversing valve

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of air conditioners, and discloses a reversing valve, which comprises a valve body, a fluid outlet, a first fluid inlet, a second fluid inlet and a valve core. The valve core is configured to be capable of sliding between a first position and a second position under the pressure of fluid. When the valve core is located at the first position, the valve core blocks the first fluid inlet, so that the second fluid inlet is in communication with the fluid outlet. When the valve core is located at the second position, the valve core blocks the second fluid inlet, so that the first fluid inlet is in communication with the fluid outlet. In the application, the reversing valve can change the parallel flow process number of the flat tube by changing the flow directions of the refrigerants in the flat tube and the manifold, and each of the reversing valves can replace a pair of one-way valves, so that the number of valves required to be installed in the micro-channel heat exchanger can be greatly reduced, the cost is reduced, and the structure of the micro-channel heat exchanger is simplified.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of air conditioner technology, and more particularly to a reversing valve. Background Technology

[0002] An air conditioner, also known as an air conditioner, is a device that can regulate parameters such as air temperature, humidity, cleanliness, and airflow speed. It is widely used in homes, commercial and industrial settings, with temperature control being the most common function.

[0003] Air conditioners commonly use microchannel heat exchangers as the main heat exchange device. The refrigerant can absorb or release heat in the microchannel heat exchanger. Taking the microchannel heat exchanger of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner as an example, when the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the microchannel heat exchanger of the outdoor unit is used as an evaporator, and the refrigerant contacts the outside air and absorbs heat. When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the microchannel heat exchanger of the outdoor unit is used as a condenser, and the refrigerant contacts the outside air and releases heat.

[0004] However, whether used as an evaporator or a condenser, the number of parallel processes and the length of the process in a microchannel heat exchanger are fixed. It is impossible to dynamically adjust the number of parallel processes for evaporation and condensation conditions. As a result, when the microchannel heat exchanger is used as an evaporator to absorb heat, the refrigerant pressure drops rapidly and the pressure loss is large, which affects the heat absorption effect. When used as a condenser to release heat, the refrigerant flow rate is slow and the heat exchange efficiency is low, which affects the heat release effect. Utility Model Content

[0005] This application discloses a microchannel heat exchanger that can change the number of parallel flow paths in the flat tubes when the refrigerant flows in different directions in the flat tubes and manifolds via a reversing valve. When used as an evaporator, the number of parallel flow paths in the flat tubes can be increased step-by-step, reducing pressure drop and pressure loss, and improving heat absorption efficiency. Conversely, when used as a condenser, the number of parallel flow paths in the flat tubes can be decreased step-by-step, increasing the refrigerant flow velocity and improving heat release efficiency. Furthermore, compared to using multiple pairs of one-way valves to change the number of parallel flow paths in the flat tubes, each reversing valve proposed in this application can replace a pair of one-way valves. This allows the microchannel heat exchanger to achieve better heat exchange performance in both heating and cooling conditions while significantly reducing the number of valves required in the microchannel heat exchanger. This results in a simpler structure, better stability, greater durability, and lower costs for the microchannel heat exchanger.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the directional valve disclosed in this application includes: a valve body having a valve cavity; a fluid outlet disposed on the valve body and communicating with the valve cavity; a first fluid inlet disposed on the valve body and communicating with the valve cavity; a second fluid inlet disposed on the valve body and disposed opposite to the first fluid inlet along a first direction, one end of the second fluid inlet communicating with the valve cavity; and a valve core slidably disposed within the valve cavity along the first direction. The valve core is configured to slide between a first position and a second position under the pressure of a fluid. When the valve core is in the first position, the valve core blocks the first fluid inlet to communicate with the second fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. When the valve core is in the second position, the valve core blocks the second fluid inlet to communicate with the first fluid inlet and the fluid outlet.

[0007] Thus, compared to setting multiple pairs of one-way valves in the manifold to achieve forward and reverse flow path switching, which changes the number of parallel flat tubes, the reversing valve proposed in this embodiment requires fewer valve bodies. Each reversing valve can replace a pair of one-way valves. While meeting the requirement of automatic switching of forward and reverse flow paths, it can make the overall structure of the microchannel heat exchanger more stable, reduce the probability of microchannel heat exchanger failure due to valve failure, and reduce the number of valve bodies, thus lowering the manufacturing cost.

[0008] As an optional implementation, the valve body includes: a first valve wall, on which the first fluid inlet is disposed; a second valve wall, which is disposed opposite to the first valve wall along the first direction, and on which the second fluid inlet is disposed; a third valve wall, which is connected to the first valve wall and the second valve wall at both ends along the first direction; and a guide portion, which is disposed on the third valve wall and extends along the first direction, and on which the valve core is slidably disposed.

[0009] In this way, the first valve wall can seal the upper and lower spaces at the corresponding positions of the manifold, and the second valve wall can seal the upper and lower spaces at the corresponding positions of the manifold, allowing the reversing valve to divide the internal space of the manifold into multiple cavities. The length of the fluid outlet along the first direction can be the same as the distance between the first and second valve walls, so that the area between the first and second valve walls can communicate with the fluid outlets of the corresponding flat tubes, maximizing the utilization of the internal space of the reversing valve. Furthermore, by adjusting the cavity length of the reversing valve, i.e., the distance between the first and second valve walls, the number of parallel processes and the process length under evaporation and condensation conditions can be adjusted, and reversing valves of different lengths can be set to adapt to different needs.

[0010] As an optional implementation, the reversing valve further includes: a slider connected to the valve core; and a guide groove disposed on the surface of the third valve wall facing the valve cavity.

[0011] In this way, the slider and the guide groove cooperate to slide, and the valve core is connected to the slider and slides with the slider. This can ensure that the valve core slides stably in the first direction and ensure that the valve core can effectively block the first fluid inlet or the second fluid inlet.

[0012] As an optional implementation, the valve body includes: a first elastic member extending along the first direction, the first elastic member being disposed within the guide groove, one end of the first elastic member being connected to the slider and the other end being connected to the guide groove; and a second elastic member extending along the first direction, the second elastic member being disposed within the guide groove, one end of the second elastic member being connected to the slider and the other end being connected to the guide groove.

[0013] Thus, the first and second elastic elements can push the slider. By setting the elastic coefficients of the first and second elastic elements, the force required for the valve core to move is changed from the action of fluid pressure and gravity to the action of fluid pressure and elastic force. This makes the slider that is slidably connected to the groove more sensitive, reduces the force required for the fluid to push the valve core, ensures that the valve core can move smoothly between the first and second positions, and reduces the impact of the valve core on the smooth flow of fluid.

[0014] As an optional implementation, the valve core has: a first surface, the first surface corresponding to and adapted to the first fluid inlet, the first surface facing the first fluid inlet, and when the valve core is in the first position, the first surface cooperates with the first fluid inlet and blocks the first fluid inlet; and a second surface, the second surface being disposed opposite to the first surface along the first direction, the second surface corresponding to and adapted to the second fluid inlet, and when the valve core is in the second position, the second surface cooperates with the second fluid inlet and blocks the second fluid inlet.

[0015] In this way, the valve core engages with the first fluid inlet through the first surface and with the second fluid inlet through the second surface, ensuring that the valve core effectively blocks the first fluid inlet after reaching the first position and effectively blocks the second fluid inlet after reaching the second position.

[0016] As an optional implementation, both the first surface and the second surface are convex spherical surfaces, and the convex directions of the first surface and the second surface are opposite to each other.

[0017] Thus, the convex spherical surface allows the valve core to fit more closely with the corresponding first fluid outlet or second fluid inlet, reducing the impact on fluid pressure and making the fluid flow more smoothly.

[0018] As an optional implementation, both the first surface and the second surface are conical surfaces, and the convex directions of the first surface and the second surface are opposite to each other.

[0019] Thus, the conical surface design allows the valve core to fit more closely with the corresponding first fluid outlet or second fluid inlet, reducing the impact on fluid pressure and enabling smoother fluid flow.

[0020] As an optional implementation, a cylindrical surface is provided between the first surface and the second surface, with one end of the cylindrical surface connected to the first surface and the other end connected to the second surface along the first direction.

[0021] In this way, the cylindrical surface design can change the flow direction of the fluid, play a certain guiding role in the fluid, reduce the eddies generated on the side of the valve core opposite to the fluid flow direction, reduce the pressure loss of the fluid, and improve the heat exchange effect of the fluid.

[0022] As an optional implementation, the reversing valve further includes: a first guide portion formed on the outer surface of the first valve wall, the first guide portion surrounding the first fluid inlet, for guiding fluid located on the outer surface of the first valve wall to flow to the first fluid inlet; and / or, a second guide portion formed on the outer surface of the second valve wall, the second guide portion surrounding the second fluid inlet, for guiding fluid located on the outer surface of the second valve wall to flow to the second fluid inlet.

[0023] In this way, the first and second guide sections allow the fluid to enter the first or second fluid inlet more smoothly, reducing the pressure loss of the fluid and improving the heat exchange effect.

[0024] As an optional implementation, the fluid outlet is provided with a baffle having a plurality of through holes extending through its body along the second direction.

[0025] In this way, the baffle can block part of the refrigerant flowing into the flat tube in the valve cavity, causing a portion of the refrigerant to flow back in the valve cavity, which can make the refrigerant in the valve cavity mix more evenly and improve the heat exchange effect.

[0026] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this application are:

[0027] The microchannel heat exchanger provided in this application embodiment can change the number of parallel passes in the flat tubes when the refrigerant flows in different directions in the flat tubes and manifolds via a reversing valve. When used as an evaporator, the number of parallel passes in the flat tubes can be increased step-by-step, reducing pressure drop and pressure loss, and improving heat absorption efficiency. Conversely, when used as a condenser, the number of parallel passes in the flat tubes can be decreased step-by-step, increasing the refrigerant flow rate and improving heat release efficiency. Therefore, the microchannel heat exchanger can have excellent heat exchange performance whether used as an evaporator or a condenser, enabling the air conditioner to have better cooling performance in cooling mode and better heating performance in heating mode, thereby improving the user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0028] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments 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 these drawings without creative effort.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the microchannel heat exchanger disclosed in the embodiments of this application;

[0030] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a microchannel heat exchanger with three reversing valves disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 3 The embodiments disclosed in this application Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the flow path of a microchannel heat exchanger in which the fluid enters through the second opening;

[0032] Figure 4 The embodiments disclosed in this application Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the flow path and structure of a microchannel heat exchanger in which the fluid enters through the first opening;

[0033] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the directional valve disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the directional valve in the first position as disclosed in the embodiments of this application;

[0035] Figure 7 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the directional valve in the second position as disclosed in the embodiments of this application.

[0036] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange system of the air conditioner when the air conditioner is in heating mode, as disclosed in the embodiments of this application.

[0037] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange system of an air conditioner when the air conditioner is in cooling mode, as disclosed in the embodiments of this application.

[0038] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of another directional valve disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the valve core structure of the reversing valve disclosed in the embodiments of this application;

[0040] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the valve core structure of another directional valve disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of fluid flow around a valve core that does not have a cylindrical surface, as disclosed in an embodiment of this application.

[0042] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of fluid flow around a valve core with a cylindrical surface as disclosed in an embodiment of this application.

[0043] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0044] 100 - Microchannel heat exchanger; 10 - Flat tube; 20 - Manifold; 21 - First opening; 22 - Second opening; 30 - Reversing valve; 301 - First reversing valve; 302 - Second reversing valve; 303 - Third reversing valve; 31 - Valve body; 311 - Valve cavity; 312 - First valve wall; 3121 - First guide section; 313 - Second valve wall; 3131 - Second guide section; 314 - Third valve wall; 3141 - Guide groove; 32 - Valve core; 3201 - Slider; 321 - First surface; 322 - Second surface; 323 - Cylindrical surface; 33 - Fluid outlet; 35 - First fluid inlet; 36 - Second fluid inlet; 37 - First elastic element; 38 - Second elastic element; 39 - Baffle; 391 - Through hole; 40 - Fin; 200 - Compressor; 300 - Throttling valve; 400 - Four-way valve; 500 - Indoor heat exchanger; a - First direction; b - Second direction. Detailed Implementation

[0045] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0046] In this application, the terms "upper," "lower," "top," "bottom," "inner," "vertical," and "horizontal," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for the purpose of better describing this application and its embodiments, and are not intended to limit the indicated device, element, or component to having a specific orientation, or to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation.

[0047] Furthermore, in addition to indicating location or positional relationship, some of the aforementioned terms may also have other meanings. For example, the term "above" may also be used in some cases to indicate a certain dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0048] Furthermore, the terms "set up," "equipped with," and "connected" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; 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, or an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0049] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are primarily used to distinguish different devices, elements, or components (which may be the same or different in specific type and construction), and are not intended to indicate or imply the relative importance or quantity of the indicated devices, elements, or components. Unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0050] Microchannel heat exchangers are heat exchangers with channel hydraulic diameters of 100-1000 μm.

[0051] The working principle of a microchannel heat exchanger is to transfer heat through heat transfer between the fluid and the heat exchange medium within the microchannel. When the fluid flows within the microchannel, due to the extremely small size of the microchannel, the temperature difference between the fluid and the channel wall causes heat transfer, and the fluid can quickly reach thermal equilibrium, thus achieving efficient heat exchange.

[0052] Microchannel heat exchangers mainly consist of structures such as manifolds, flat tubes, and fins. The manifolds collect and distribute the fluid, while the fluid flows within the channels formed by the flat tubes and exchanges heat with the surrounding walls.

[0053] Microchannel heat exchangers are used in air conditioners, serving as either evaporators or condensers in the outdoor unit. When the air conditioner is in heating mode, the microchannel heat exchanger in the outdoor unit acts as an evaporator. The inlet of the heat exchanger contains liquid refrigerant, and the outlet contains gaseous refrigerant. As the refrigerant flows through the microchannel heat exchanger, it comes into contact with the outside air, changing from liquid to gaseous refrigerant and absorbing heat to achieve the heating effect. When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the microchannel heat exchanger in the outdoor unit acts as a condenser. Again, the inlet of the microchannel heat exchanger contains gaseous refrigerant, and the outlet contains liquid refrigerant. As the refrigerant flows through the microchannel heat exchanger, it comes into contact with the outside air, changing from gaseous to liquid refrigerant and releasing heat to achieve the cooling effect.

[0054] However, whether used as an evaporator or a condenser, the number of parallel processes and the length of the process in a microchannel heat exchanger are fixed. It is impossible to dynamically adjust the number of parallel processes for evaporation and condensation conditions. As a result, when the microchannel heat exchanger is used as an evaporator to absorb heat, the refrigerant pressure drop is fast and the pressure loss is large, which affects the heat absorption effect. When used as a condenser to release heat, the refrigerant flow rate is slow and the heat exchange efficiency is low, which affects the heat release efficiency and prevents the microchannel heat exchanger from fully realizing its optimal performance.

[0055] Based on this, this application provides a microchannel heat exchanger that can change the number of parallel passes in the flat tubes when the refrigerant flows in different directions in the flat tubes and manifolds via a reversing valve. When the microchannel heat exchanger is used as an evaporator, the number of parallel passes in the flat tubes can be increased step by step, reducing pressure drop, lowering pressure loss, and improving heat absorption efficiency. When used as a condenser, the number of parallel passes in the flat tubes can be decreased step by step, increasing the refrigerant flow rate and improving heat release efficiency.

[0056] The technical solution of this application will be further described below with reference to the embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0057] Please see Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the directional control valve 30 disclosed in an embodiment of this application. This application discloses a directional control valve 30, including: a valve body 31, a fluid outlet 33, a first fluid inlet 35, a second fluid inlet 36, and a valve core 32. The valve body 31 has a valve cavity 311; the fluid outlet 33 is disposed on the valve body 31 and communicates with the valve cavity 311; the first fluid inlet 35 is disposed on the valve body 31 and communicates with the valve cavity 311; the second fluid inlet 36 is disposed on the valve body 31 and is opposite to the first fluid inlet 35 along a first direction a, one end of the second fluid inlet 36 communicating with the valve cavity 311; the valve core 32 is slidably disposed within the valve cavity 311 along the first direction a, and the valve core 32 is configured to slide between a first position and a second position under the pressure of the fluid, such as... Figure 6 As shown, Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the directional valve disclosed in this application when it is in the first position. When the valve core 32 is in the first position, the valve core 32 blocks the first fluid inlet 35 so that the second fluid inlet 36 communicates with the fluid outlet 33. When the valve core 32 is in the second position, as... Figure 7 As shown, Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the directional valve in the second position as disclosed in the embodiment of this application. The valve core 32 blocks the second fluid inlet 36 so that the first fluid inlet 35 is connected to the fluid outlet 33.

[0058] Specifically, the fluid can be a refrigerant, which can exchange heat with the external environment. When the refrigerant flows in the manifold 20 and the flat tube 10, it can be a gas, a liquid, or a gas-liquid mixture.

[0059] The reversing valve 30 has a valve core 32 that can slide between a first position and a second position under the pressure of the fluid. When the valve core 32 is in the first position, it blocks the first fluid inlet 35, allowing the second fluid inlet 36 to communicate with the fluid outlet 33. When the valve core 32 is in the second position, it blocks the second fluid inlet 36, allowing the first fluid inlet 35 to communicate with the fluid outlet 33. Compared to setting multiple pairs of one-way valves in the manifold 20 to achieve forward and reverse flow path switching, which changes the number of parallel flat tubes 10, the reversing valve 30 proposed in this embodiment requires fewer valve bodies 31. Each reversing valve 30 can replace a pair of one-way valves. While meeting the requirement of automatic switching of forward and reverse flow paths, it can make the overall structure of the microchannel heat exchanger 100 more stable. The probability of the microchannel heat exchanger 100 failing due to valve body 31 malfunction is lower. Moreover, the number of valve bodies 31 is less, and the required manufacturing cost is also lower.

[0060] The valve core 32 of the reversing valve 30 proposed in this application embodiment can slide under the pressure of the refrigerant. During the sliding process of the valve core 32, the flow path of the reversing valve 30 can be switched, so that the second fluid inlet 36 of the reversing valve 30 is connected to the fluid outlet 33, or the first fluid inlet 35 is connected to the fluid outlet 33. Thus, when the flow direction of the refrigerant is switched, the flow path of the refrigerant is automatically switched without the need for additional control structure.

[0061] The reversing valve 30 according to this embodiment of the present invention can be applied to the microchannel heat exchanger 100. The reversing valve 30 is installed in the manifold 20 of the microchannel heat exchanger 100. When the refrigerant flow directions in the flat tube 10 and the manifold 20 are different, the number of parallel flow paths in the flat tube 10 is changed. When the microchannel heat exchanger 100 is used as an evaporator, the number of parallel flow paths in the flat tube 10 can be increased step by step, reducing pressure drop, lowering pressure loss, and improving heat absorption efficiency. When used as a condenser, the number of parallel flow paths in the flat tube 10 can be decreased step by step, increasing the refrigerant flow rate and improving heat release efficiency. Therefore, the microchannel heat exchanger 100 can have good heat exchange performance whether used as an evaporator or a condenser, enabling the air conditioner to have better cooling effect in cooling mode and better heating effect in heating mode, thereby improving the user experience. Moreover, each reversing valve 30 is equivalent to two check valves. Compared with setting check valves in the manifold 20, the reversing valve 30 in this embodiment can significantly reduce the valve body 31 components required in the manifold 20, reduce production costs, and improve the stability of the microchannel heat exchanger 100, reducing the probability of the microchannel heat exchanger 100 functioning due to damage to the valve body 31.

[0062] Combination Figure 1 In some embodiments, the valve body 31 includes: a first valve wall 312, a second valve wall 313, a third valve wall 314, and a guide portion. A first fluid inlet 35 is disposed on the first valve wall 312. The second valve wall 313 is disposed opposite to the first valve wall 312 along a first direction a, and a second fluid inlet 36 is disposed on the second valve wall 313. The two ends of the third valve wall 314 along the first direction a are respectively connected to the first valve wall 312 and the second valve wall 313. The guide portion is disposed on the third valve wall 314 and extends along the first direction a. The valve core 32 is slidably disposed on the guide portion.

[0063] Specifically, the first valve wall 312 can seal the upper and lower spaces at the corresponding positions of the manifold 20, and the second valve wall 313 can seal the upper and lower spaces at the corresponding positions of the manifold 20, so that the reversing valve 30 can divide the internal space of the manifold 20 into multiple cavities. The length of the fluid outlet 33 along the first direction a can be the same as the distance between the first valve wall 312 and the second valve wall 313, so that the area between the first valve wall 312 and the second valve wall 313 can be connected to the fluid outlet 33 of each corresponding flat tube 10, maximizing the utilization of the internal space of the reversing valve 30. Furthermore, by adjusting the cavity length of the reversing valve 30, i.e., the distance between the first valve wall 312 and the second valve wall 313, the number of parallel processes and the process length under evaporation and condensation conditions can be adjusted, and reversing valves 30 of different lengths can be set to adapt to different needs.

[0064] The valve core 32 is slidably mounted on the guide section, and can slide stably along the first direction a under the guidance of the guide section to stably reach the first position or the second position, so as to ensure the sealing effect on the first fluid inlet 35 or the second fluid inlet 36.

[0065] In some embodiments, the reversing valve 30 further includes: a slider 3201 connected to the valve core 32; and a guide groove 3141 disposed on the surface of the third valve wall 314 facing the valve cavity 311.

[0066] Specifically, the slider 3201 slides in cooperation with the guide groove 3141, and the valve core 32 is connected to the slider 3201 and slides with the slider 3201. This ensures that the valve core 32 slides stably along the first direction a, thus ensuring the sealing effect of the valve core 32 on the first fluid inlet 35 or the second fluid inlet 36.

[0067] In some embodiments, the valve body 31 includes: a first elastic member 37 and a second elastic member 38. The first elastic member 37 extends along a first direction a and is disposed in a guide groove 3141. One end of the first elastic member 37 is connected to the slider 3201 and the other end is connected to the guide groove 3141. The second elastic member 38 extends along the first direction a and is disposed in the guide groove 3141. One end of the second elastic member 38 is connected to the slider 3201 and the other end is connected to the guide groove 3141.

[0068] Specifically, the first elastic element 37 and the second elastic element 38 can be springs. The arrangement of the first elastic element 37 and the second elastic element 38 can push the slider 3201. By setting the elastic coefficients of the first elastic element 37 and the second elastic element 38, the force required for the valve core 32 to move is changed from the action of fluid pressure and gravity to the action of fluid pressure and elastic force. This makes the slider 3201, which is slidably connected to the groove, more sensitive, reduces the force required for the fluid to push the valve core 32, ensures that the valve core 32 can move smoothly between the first position and the second position, and reduces the impact of the valve core 32 on the smooth flow of fluid.

[0069] In some embodiments, the valve core 32 has: a first surface 321 and a second surface 322, the first surface 321 corresponding to and adapted to the first fluid inlet 35, the first surface 321 facing the first fluid inlet 35, when the valve core 32 is in the first position, the first surface 321 cooperates with the first fluid inlet 35 and blocks the first fluid inlet 35; the second surface 322 is disposed opposite to the first surface 321 along the first direction a, the second surface 322 corresponding to and adapted to the second fluid inlet 36, when the valve core 32 is in the second position, the second surface 322 cooperates with the second fluid inlet 36 and blocks the second fluid inlet 36.

[0070] Specifically, the valve core 32 engages with the first fluid inlet 35 via the first surface 321 and with the second fluid inlet 36 via the second surface 322. This ensures that the valve core 32 effectively blocks the first fluid inlet 35 when it reaches the first position and effectively blocks the second fluid inlet 36 when it reaches the second position.

[0071] Combination Figure 11 , Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the valve core of the directional valve disclosed in an embodiment of this application. In some embodiments, the first surface 321 and the second surface 322 are both convex spherical surfaces, and the convex directions of the first surface 321 and the second surface 322 are opposite to each other.

[0072] Specifically, the convex spherical surface can be a smooth arc-shaped surface. The convex spherical surface can make the valve core 32 fit more closely with the corresponding first fluid outlet 33 or second fluid inlet 36, thereby reducing the impact on fluid pressure and making the fluid flow more smoothly.

[0073] Combination Figure 12 , Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the valve core of another directional valve disclosed in an embodiment of this application. In some embodiments, the first surface 321 and the second surface 322 are both conical surfaces, and the convex directions of the first surface 321 and the second surface 322 are opposite to each other.

[0074] Specifically, the conical surface can be a circular conical surface or a pyramidal surface. The conical surface allows the valve core 32 to fit more closely with the corresponding first fluid outlet 33 or second fluid inlet 36, reducing the impact on fluid pressure and making the fluid flow more smoothly.

[0075] In some embodiments, a cylindrical surface 323 is provided between the first surface 321 and the second surface 322, with one end of the cylindrical surface 323 connected to the first surface 321 along a first direction a, and the other end connected to the second surface 322.

[0076] Specifically, such as Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of fluid flow around a valve core that does not have a cylindrical surface, as disclosed in an embodiment of this application. Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of fluid flow around a valve core with a cylindrical surface disclosed in an embodiment of this application. The design of the cylindrical surface 323 can change the direction of fluid flow, playing a certain guiding role for the fluid. It can reduce the eddies generated on the side of the valve core 32 opposite to the fluid flow direction, reduce the pressure loss of the fluid, and improve the heat exchange effect of the fluid.

[0077] Combination Figure 10 , Figure 10This is a schematic diagram of another directional control valve disclosed in an embodiment of this application. In some embodiments, the directional control valve 30 further includes: a first guide portion and / or a second guide portion, the first guide portion being formed on the outer surface of the first valve wall 312, the first guide portion surrounding the first fluid inlet 35, for guiding fluid located on the outer surface of the first valve wall 312 to flow to the first fluid inlet 35; the second guide portion being formed on the outer surface of the second valve wall 313, the second guide portion surrounding the second fluid inlet 36, for guiding fluid located on the outer surface of the second valve wall 313 to flow to the second fluid inlet 36.

[0078] Specifically, the first and second flow guides can be pyramidal or conical, or they can be arc-shaped structures that bulge outwards on the basis of a conical structure. Their cross-sectional shape is convex arc. The first and second flow guides can make the fluid enter the first fluid inlet 35 or the second fluid inlet 36 more smoothly, thereby reducing the pressure loss of the fluid and improving the heat exchange effect of the fluid.

[0079] In some embodiments, the fluid outlet 33 is provided with a baffle 39 having a plurality of through holes 391 extending through its body along a second direction b.

[0080] Specifically, the baffle 39 can block part of the refrigerant flowing into the flat tube 10 in the valve cavity 311, causing a portion of the refrigerant to flow back in the valve cavity 311, which can make the refrigerant in the valve cavity 311 mix more evenly and improve the heat exchange effect.

[0081] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the microchannel heat exchanger 100 disclosed in an embodiment of this application. The microchannel heat exchanger 100 disclosed in this application includes: multiple flat tubes 10, two manifolds 20, and at least one reversing valve 30. The multiple flat tubes 10 are arranged along a first direction a; the two manifolds 20 both extend along the first direction a and are arranged opposite each other along a second direction b, the second direction b being perpendicular to the first direction a. The multiple flat tubes 10 are located between the two manifolds 20, and both ends of each flat tube 10 along the first direction a are respectively connected to the two manifolds 20. The manifolds 20 have a first opening 21 and a second opening 22. The first opening 21 is used to connect with air... The compressor 200 of the air conditioner is connected, and the second opening 22 is used to connect to the throttle valve 300 of the air conditioner; the aforementioned reversing valve 30 is installed in the manifold 20, and the installation position of the reversing valve 30 in the manifold 20 is configured such that when the fluid enters the manifold 20 through the inlet of the first opening 21, the number of parallel flat tubes 10 decreases step by step along the direction from the first opening 21 to the second opening 22, and when the fluid enters the manifold 20 through the inlet of the second opening 22, the number of parallel flat tubes 10 increases step by step along the direction from the second opening 22 to the first opening 21.

[0082] Specifically, the flat tube 10 can be a type of tubing with a flat cross-sectional shape. It has advantages such as light weight, high strength, and corrosion resistance. The interior of the flat tube 10 can consist of multiple microchannels with a width of less than 0.5 mm, and these channels can be rectangular, triangular, circular, or other shapes. The wall thickness can be set below 0.2 mm, resulting in high thermal conductivity. Furthermore, the interior can be specially treated to form a uniform alumina protective layer, providing strong corrosion resistance.

[0083] Fins 40 can be provided between each microchannel heat exchanger 100. The fins 40 can be made of metal materials, such as aluminum or copper, and are fixed between the flat tubes 10 by mechanical connection or welding. The fins 40 can increase the heat exchange area of ​​the heat exchanger, improve the heat exchange efficiency, and at the same time enhance the air turbulence, promoting heat exchange between the air and the flat tubes 10.

[0084] The fluid can be a refrigerant, which can exchange heat with the external environment. When the refrigerant flows in the manifold 20 and the flat tube 10, it can be a gas, a liquid, or a gas-liquid mixture.

[0085] The manifold 20 collects and distributes the refrigerant, allowing it to flow within the flat tubes 10 of the microchannel heat exchanger 100. The manifold 20 can be made of aluminum alloy, giving it good thermal conductivity, corrosion resistance, and machinability. Its low density helps reduce the weight of the heat exchanger, while its high strength allows it to withstand certain pressures. The manifold 20 has a first opening 21 and a second opening 22, which can be located on two separate manifolds 20 or both on a single manifold 20.

[0086] The reversing valve 30 is installed in the manifold 20. The reversing valve 30 can divide the internal space of the manifold 20 into multiple chambers. There can be one reversing valve 30. When there is one reversing valve 30, the first opening 21 and the second opening 22 are installed on one manifold 20. The reversing valve 30 is also installed in the manifold 20. The reversing valve 30 is not located in the middle of the manifold 20. That is, along the first direction a, the number of flat tubes 10 on both sides of the reversing valve 30 is different.

[0087] The reversing valve 30 proposed in this embodiment can be applied in the microchannel heat exchanger 100. The microchannel heat exchanger 100 proposed in this embodiment can be used as an outdoor heat exchanger. When the microchannel heat exchanger 100 proposed in this application is used as an outdoor heat exchanger, the flow path of the air conditioner's heat exchange system is as follows: Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange system of the air conditioner when it is in heating mode, as disclosed in the embodiments of this application. Figure 9This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of the heat exchange system of the air conditioner when it is in cooling mode, as disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The heat exchange system may include a microchannel heat exchanger 100, an indoor heat exchanger 500, a compressor 200, a four-way valve 400, and a throttling valve 300. The indoor heat exchanger 500 has a third opening communicating with the compressor 200 and a fourth opening communicating with the throttling valve 300. The compressor 200 has an inlet and an outlet. The first opening 21 of the microchannel heat exchanger 100 is connected to the four-way valve 400, and then connected to the compressor 200 through the four-way valve 400. The second opening 22 is connected to the throttling valve 300. Figure 8 When the air conditioner is in heating mode, the microchannel heat exchanger 100, which serves as the outdoor heat exchanger, functions as an evaporator. The discharge port of the compressor 200 is connected to a four-way valve 400, which in turn connects to the third opening of the indoor heat exchanger 500. The fourth opening of the indoor heat exchanger 500 connects to a throttling valve 300, which in turn connects to the second opening 22 of the microchannel heat exchanger 100. The first opening 21 of the microchannel heat exchanger 100 connects to the four-way valve 400, which in turn connects to the air inlet of the compressor 200, forming a complete heat exchange loop that allows refrigerant to circulate within the loop. Figure 9 When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the microchannel heat exchanger 100, which serves as the outdoor heat exchanger of the air conditioner, is used as a condenser. The discharge port of the compressor 200 is connected to the four-way valve 400, and then through the four-way valve 400, it is connected to the first opening 21 of the microchannel heat exchanger 100. The second opening 22 of the microchannel heat exchanger 100 is connected to the throttle valve 300, and the throttle valve 300 is connected to the fourth opening of the indoor heat exchanger 500. The third opening of the indoor heat exchanger 500 is connected to the four-way valve 400, and then through the four-way valve 400, it is connected to the air inlet of the compressor 200, forming a complete heat exchange circuit, allowing the refrigerant to circulate within the circuit.

[0088] Taking the microchannel heat exchanger 100 as an outdoor unit of an air conditioner as an example, when the microchannel heat exchanger 100 is used as an evaporator, the inlet of the heat exchanger is a liquid refrigerant. The liquid refrigerant can vaporize in the microchannel heat exchanger 100, absorbing heat during the vaporization process. During this process, the number of parallel flow paths of the flat tubes 10 inside the microchannel heat exchanger 100 is changed by the reversing valve 30 proposed in this embodiment, so that the number of parallel flow paths increases step by step, thereby reducing the pressure drop and slowing down the rate of pressure decrease, so that the liquid refrigerant can... The refrigerant is converted into a gaseous phase more efficiently, improving the heat absorption effect. When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the microchannel heat exchanger 100 is used as a condenser. The inlet of the heat exchanger is a gaseous phase refrigerant, which releases heat and liquefies. Therefore, in this process, the number of parallel flow paths of the flat tubes 10 inside the microchannel heat exchanger 100 is changed by the reversing valve 30, so that the number of parallel flow paths is reduced step by step, thereby increasing the flow rate and thus increasing the refrigerant flow rate, making the heat exchange efficiency of the microchannel heat exchanger 100 higher and improving the heat release effect.

[0089] The number of parallel flow paths of the flat tube 10 refers to the number of adjacent flat tubes 10 arranged along the first direction a, in which the internal fluid flows in the same direction.

[0090] Combination Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a microchannel heat exchanger 100 with three reversing valves 30 disclosed in an embodiment of this application. In some embodiments, there are multiple reversing valves 30, which are alternately arranged on two manifolds 20, and the reversing valves 30 on the two manifolds 20 are staggered in the second direction b. The reversing valve 30 adjacent to the first opening 21 and the first opening 21 are arranged in the same manifold 20, and the reversing valve 30 adjacent to the second opening 22 and the second opening 22 are arranged in the same manifold 20.

[0091] Specifically, when there are multiple reversing valves 30, they are alternately arranged on the two manifolds 20. That is, in the direction from the first opening 21 to the second opening 22, when the first reversing valve 30 is set on the first manifold 20, the second reversing valve 30 is set on the second manifold 20, and the third reversing valve 30 is set on the first manifold 20, and so on. If the number of reversing valves 30 is odd, the first opening 21 and the second opening 22 are both set in the same manifold 20. If the number of reversing valves 30 is even, the first opening 21 and the second opening 22 are set on two different manifolds 20, ensuring that the refrigerant in the microchannel heat exchanger 100 can flow in a roughly serpentine manner, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency.

[0092] Combination Figure 3 and Figure 4 , Figure 3 The embodiments disclosed in this application Figure 2A schematic diagram of the flow path of the microchannel heat exchanger 100, in which the fluid enters through the second opening 22. Figure 4 The embodiments disclosed in this application Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the flow path of the microchannel heat exchanger 100 through which the fluid enters from the first opening 21. In some embodiments, the plurality of reversing valves 30 include: a first reversing valve 301, a second reversing valve 302, and a third reversing valve 303. The number of flat tubes 10 connected to the fluid outlet 33 of the first reversing valve 301 is n1, the number of flat tubes 10 connected to the fluid outlet 33 of the second reversing valve 302 is n2, and the number of flat tubes 10 connected to the fluid outlet 33 of the third reversing valve 303 is n3.

[0093] The number of flat tubes 10 connected between the first opening 21 and the first reversing valve 301 in the manifold 20 is m1; the number of flat tubes 10 connected between the first reversing valve 301 and the second reversing valve 302 in the manifold 20 is m2; the number of flat tubes 10 connected between the second reversing valve 302 and the third reversing valve 303 in the manifold 20 is m3; and the number of flat tubes 10 connected between the third reversing valve 303 and the second opening 22 in the manifold 20 is m4.

[0094] When the fluid enters the manifold 20 through the first opening 21, the number of flat tubes 10 connected in parallel along the direction from the first opening 21 to the second opening 22 are w1, w2, w3 and w4, respectively, where w1 = n1 + m1, w2 = n2 + m2, w3 = n3 + m3, w4 = 0 + m4, and the size relationship between w1, w2, w3 and w4 satisfies: w1 > w2 > w3 > w4;

[0095] When the fluid enters the manifold 20 through the second opening 22, the number of flat tubes 10 connected in parallel along the direction from the second opening 22 to the first opening 21 are w1', w2', w3' and w4', respectively, where w1' = n1 + m4, w2' = n2 + m3, w3' = n3 + m2, w4' = 0 + m1, and the size relationship between w1', w2', w3' and w4' satisfies: w1' < w2' < w3' < w4'.

[0096] Specifically, the number of flat tubes 10 connected in parallel along the direction from the first opening 21 to the second opening 22 is the number of parallel flow paths of the flat tubes 10, which is the number of adjacent flat tubes 10 with internal fluid flowing in the same direction among the multiple flat tubes 10 arranged along the first direction a.

[0097] The number of reversing valves 30 can be three, namely the first reversing valve 301, the second reversing valve 302, and the third reversing valve 303. When the fluid enters the manifold 20 through the first opening 21, such as Figure 2As shown, it can be seen that there are 7 flat tubes 10 between the upper end of the first reversing valve 301 and the first opening 21; the fluid outlet 33 of the first reversing valve 301 is connected to 2 flat tubes 10; the lower end of the first reversing valve 301 and the upper end of the second reversing valve 302 have 3 flat tubes 10; the fluid outlet 33 of the second reversing valve 302 is connected to 2 flat tubes 10; the lower end of the second reversing valve 302 and the upper end of the third reversing valve 303 have 1 flat tube 10; the fluid outlet 33 of the third reversing valve 303 is connected to 1 flat tube 10; and the lower end of the third valve is connected to the second opening 22 with 1 flat tube 10. Therefore, it can be concluded that n1 = 2, n2 = 2, n3 = 1, m1 = 7, m2 = 3, m3 = 2, and m4 = 1. When the fluid enters the manifold 20 from the first opening 21, as... Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 The direction of the middle arrow indicates the refrigerant flow direction. From this, we can deduce that w1 = n1 + m1 = 9, w2 = n2 + m2 = 5, w3 = n3 + m3 = 2, and w4 = 0 + m4 = 1. Therefore, w1 > w2 > w3 > w4. When the fluid enters the manifold 20 through the second opening 22, if... Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3 The direction of the middle arrow indicates the direction of refrigerant flow. Its w1' = n1 + m4 = 2, w2' = n2 + m3 = 3, w3' = n3 + m2 = 5, w4' = 0 + m1 = 7, so we can conclude that w1' < w2' < w3' < w4'.

[0098] When the fluid enters the manifold 20 through the first opening 21, the magnitudes of w1, w2, w3, and w4 satisfy the following relationship: w1 > w2 > w3 > w4. This ensures that the number of parallel flat tubes 10 decreases progressively along the direction from the first opening 21 to the second opening 22, reducing the pressure loss of the refrigerant during flow and improving the heat dissipation effect of the microchannel heat exchanger 100 as an outdoor condenser. When the fluid enters the manifold 20 through the second opening 22, the magnitudes of w1', w2', w3', and w4' satisfy the following relationship: w1' < w2' < w3' < w4'. The number of parallel flat tubes 10 increases progressively along the direction from the second opening 22 to the first opening 21, increasing the velocity of the refrigerant during flow and improving the heat absorption effect of the microchannel heat exchanger 100 as an outdoor evaporator.

[0099] Please see Figures 1 to 14 This application discloses an air conditioner, including the aforementioned microchannel heat exchanger 100.

[0100] Specifically, the microchannel heat exchanger 100 in this embodiment can be used as an outdoor heat exchanger. The heat exchange system can also include an indoor heat exchanger 500, a compressor 200, a four-way valve 400, and a throttling valve 300, which can perform cooling or heating functions. Furthermore, the microchannel heat exchanger 100 proposed in this embodiment can enable the air conditioner to have good heat exchange effects when cooling and heating. Moreover, in the microchannel heat exchanger 100, the reversing valve 30 can replace the setting of multiple pairs of one-way valves, which can reduce the number of valves required, reduce costs, and make the structure of the microchannel heat exchanger 100 simpler, thereby improving the stability of the microchannel heat exchanger 100.

[0101] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A reversing valve, characterized in that, include: Valve body, wherein the valve body has a valve cavity; A fluid outlet is provided on the valve body and communicates with the valve cavity; A first fluid inlet is disposed on the valve body and communicates with the valve cavity; The second fluid inlet is disposed on the valve body and is disposed opposite to the first fluid inlet along a first direction. One end of the second fluid inlet is connected to the valve cavity. A valve core is slidably disposed within the valve cavity along the first direction. The valve core is configured to slide between a first position and a second position under the pressure of a fluid. When the valve core is in the first position, the valve core blocks the first fluid inlet so that the second fluid inlet communicates with the fluid outlet. When the valve core is in the second position, the valve core blocks the second fluid inlet so that the first fluid inlet communicates with the fluid outlet.

2. The reversing valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve body includes: The first valve wall, wherein the first fluid inlet is disposed on the first valve wall; The second valve wall is disposed opposite to the first valve wall along the first direction, and the second fluid inlet is disposed on the second valve wall; The third valve wall is connected to the first valve wall and the second valve wall at both ends along the first direction, respectively; A guide portion is disposed on the third valve wall and extends along the first direction, and the valve core is slidably disposed on the guide portion.

3. The reversing valve according to claim 2, characterized in that... The reversing valve also includes: A slider, which is connected to the valve core; The guide portion is a guide groove, which is disposed on the surface of the third valve wall facing the valve cavity.

4. The reversing valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The valve body includes: A first elastic element extends along the first direction and is disposed in the guide groove. One end of the first elastic element is connected to the slider and the other end is connected to the guide groove. The second elastic element extends along the first direction and is disposed in the guide groove. One end of the second elastic element faces the slider, and the other end is connected to the guide groove.

5. The reversing valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve core has: A first surface, which corresponds to and is adapted to the first fluid inlet, faces the first fluid inlet. When the valve core is in the first position, the first surface engages with the first fluid inlet and blocks the first fluid inlet. The second surface is disposed opposite to the first surface along the first direction. The second surface corresponds to and is adapted to the second fluid inlet. When the valve core is in the second position, the second surface cooperates with the second fluid inlet and blocks the second fluid inlet.

6. The reversing valve according to claim 5, characterized in that, Both the first surface and the second surface are convex spherical surfaces, and the convex directions of the first surface and the second surface are opposite.

7. The reversing valve according to claim 5, characterized in that, Both the first surface and the second surface are conical surfaces, and the convex directions of the first surface and the second surface are opposite.

8. The reversing valve according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, A cylindrical surface is provided between the first surface and the second surface, with one end of the cylindrical surface connected to the first surface and the other end connected to the second surface along the first direction.

9. The reversing valve according to claim 2, characterized in that, The reversing valve also includes: The first flow guide portion is formed on the outer surface of the first valve wall. A first flow guide surrounds the first fluid inlet and is used to guide fluid located on the outer surface of the first valve wall to flow to the first fluid inlet; and / or, The second flow guide is formed on the outer surface of the second valve wall and surrounds the second fluid inlet, for guiding the fluid located on the outer surface of the second valve wall to flow to the second fluid inlet.

10. The reversing valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fluid outlet is provided with a baffle, which has a plurality of through holes penetrating its body along a second direction.

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