Valve assembly, heat exchange device and air conditioner

Abstract

The utility model discloses a valve assembly, heat exchange device and air conditioner, valve assembly includes: valve island, the flow passage is defined in the valve island, and the valve island forms with the first interface, valve core interface and flow passage interface who communicate with flow passage, and valve core interface is located between the first interface and flow passage interface, expansion valve, expansion valve is installed in the valve core interface position, and expansion valve is communicated between the first interface and flow passage interface, filter assembly, filter assembly is located in the flow passage, and is located between the first interface and valve core interface, and filter assembly forms a plurality of filter holes, and a plurality of filter holes include a plurality of first filter holes and a plurality of second filter holes, and the equivalent diameter of first filter hole is different with the equivalent diameter of second filter hole. According to the valve assembly of the utility model, can effectively filter the refrigerant that flows through in flow passage, can realize the fractional filtration of the impurity in refrigerant, improves the filtering effect and filtering efficiency, can also reduce the flow resistance, guarantees that refrigerant passes through valve assembly normally smoothly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of household appliance technology, and in particular to a valve assembly, a heat exchange device, and an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] The electronic expansion valve core is one of the key components in an air conditioning refrigeration system. It is mainly used to control the flow and pressure of refrigerant in order to achieve precise refrigerant flow regulation.

[0003] In related technologies, heat exchangers and valve core components are integrated into a single heat exchange device. During processing and installation, impurities remaining in the system can clog the valve ports of the valve core components and hinder valve needle movement, affecting the normal operation of the integrated heat exchange device. When a filter screen is installed inside the valve island to effectively filter impurities, traditional filter screens are prone to clogging when filtering flocculent impurities, resulting in a significant increase in flow resistance. Utility Model Content

[0004] This invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this invention provides a valve assembly that can effectively filter refrigerant flowing through a flow channel, improving filtration effect and efficiency, and also reducing flow resistance, ensuring the normal and smooth passage of refrigerant through the valve assembly.

[0005] This utility model also proposes a heat exchange device having the above-mentioned valve assembly.

[0006] This utility model also proposes an air conditioner having the above-mentioned heat exchange device.

[0007] A valve assembly according to a first aspect of the present invention includes: a valve island defining a flow channel, the valve island having a first interface, a valve core interface, and a flow channel interface communicating with the flow channel, the valve core interface being located between the first interface and the flow channel interface; an expansion valve installed at the valve core interface, the expansion valve communicating between the first interface and the flow channel interface; and a filter assembly disposed within the flow channel and located between the first interface and the valve core interface, the filter assembly having a plurality of filter holes, the plurality of filter holes including a plurality of first filter holes and a plurality of second filter holes, the equivalent diameter of the first filter holes being different from the equivalent diameter of the second filter holes.

[0008] According to the valve assembly of this utility model, by setting a filter component in the flow channel of the valve island, the refrigerant flowing through the flow channel can be effectively filtered, preventing impurities in the refrigerant from entering the expansion valve and clogging the valve port and hindering the movement of the valve needle, thus ensuring that the expansion valve can work normally. By making the filter component have first filter holes and second filter holes with equivalent diameters, the impurities in the refrigerant can be filtered in stages, improving the filtration effect and filtration efficiency. It can also ensure that the refrigerant flows smoothly when passing through the filter component, reducing flow resistance, improving the flow capacity of the refrigerant, and ensuring that the refrigerant passes through the valve assembly normally and smoothly.

[0009] In some embodiments, the filtering assembly includes a filter screen having a plurality of filter pores formed thereon.

[0010] In some embodiments, a plurality of first filter holes and a plurality of second filter holes are formed on the filter screen, the first filter holes are located on the side of the second filter holes facing the first interface, and the equivalent diameter of the first filter holes is smaller than the equivalent diameter of the second filter holes.

[0011] In some embodiments, the number of filters is multiple, and the multiple filters are arranged sequentially in the direction from the first interface toward the valve core interface.

[0012] In some embodiments, in two adjacent filter screens, the filter hole on the filter screen closer to the first interface is the first filter hole, and the filter hole on the filter screen farther from the first interface is the second filter hole, wherein the equivalent diameter of the first filter hole is greater than the equivalent diameter of the second filter hole.

[0013] In some embodiments, the filter screen is formed as a cylindrical structure with one end open and the other end closed, the opening of the filter screen is disposed away from the first interface, and a plurality of filter holes are formed on the peripheral wall and / or bottom wall of the filter screen.

[0014] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the cross-sectional dimensions of the filter gradually decrease in the direction from the opening of the filter towards the bottom wall.

[0015] In some embodiments, the filter assembly further includes a mounting bracket that extends in a ring shape along the circumference of the filter screen, and the filter screen is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the flow channel via the mounting bracket.

[0016] In some embodiments, a limiting groove is formed on the peripheral wall of the flow channel, the limiting groove extending in an annular shape along the circumference of the filter screen, and at least a portion of the mounting bracket is fitted into the limiting groove.

[0017] In some embodiments, an abutment and a limiting protrusion are formed on the inner wall of the flow channel. The abutment and the limiting protrusion both extend in a ring shape along the circumference of the filter screen. The abutment is located on the side of the limiting protrusion away from the first interface. The abutment, the limiting protrusion and the inner wall of the flow channel cooperate to define the limiting groove.

[0018] In some embodiments, the cross-section of the flow channel is circular, and the filter assembly satisfies: D1 > D2 > D3 > D4 > D5, where D1 is the inner diameter of the flow channel located on the side of the limiting protrusion facing the first interface, D2 is the outer diameter of the mounting bracket, D3 is the inner diameter of the limiting protrusion, D4 is the inner diameter of the mounting bracket, and D5 is the inner diameter of the abutment platform.

[0019] In some embodiments, the mounting bracket is connected to the side of the filter screen opposite to the first interface.

[0020] In some embodiments, a fixing groove is formed on the end face of the mounting bracket facing the first interface. The fixing groove extends in a ring shape along the circumference of the mounting bracket. The periphery of the filter extends into the fixing groove and is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the fixing groove.

[0021] In some embodiments, there are multiple filters, which are arranged sequentially in the direction from the first interface toward the valve core interface. There are also multiple mounting brackets, which correspond one-to-one with and are connected to the multiple filters.

[0022] In some embodiments, the valve island includes a cylindrical portion and a mounting portion. The cylindrical portion is a cylinder open at both ends. One end of the cylindrical portion defines the first interface. The filter assembly is disposed inside the cylindrical portion. The mounting portion is connected to the other end of the cylindrical portion. The valve core interface and the flow channel interface are both formed on the mounting portion. The expansion valve is connected to the mounting portion.

[0023] In some embodiments, the valve assembly further includes a first connecting pipe, one end of which is connected to one end of the cylinder portion.

[0024] In some embodiments, in the direction of the cylindrical portion toward the first connecting pipe, the cross-sectional area of ​​one end of the first connecting pipe gradually decreases.

[0025] In some embodiments, there are two valve core interfaces, namely a first valve core interface and a second valve core interface; there are two expansion valves, namely a first expansion valve and a second expansion valve; there are two flow channel interfaces, namely a first flow channel interface and a second flow channel interface; the valve island is formed with a flow divider, which connects the first valve core interface, the second valve core interface and the first flow channel interface; the first expansion valve is connected to the first valve core interface; and the second expansion valve is connected to the second valve core interface.

[0026] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a heat exchange device includes: a heat exchanger comprising a first channel and a second channel for mutual heat exchange, wherein the two ends of the first channel are a first end and a second end, and the two ends of the second channel are a third end and a fourth end; and a valve assembly according to a first aspect of the present invention, wherein the valve assembly is disposed on the heat exchanger, wherein a first flow channel interface is connected to the first end, and a second flow channel interface is connected to the third end.

[0027] According to the heat exchange device of this utility model, by setting the valve assembly of the first aspect mentioned above, the overall performance of the heat exchange device is improved.

[0028] In some embodiments, the heat exchange device further includes a filter connected to the second end.

[0029] In some embodiments, the heat exchange device further includes a second connecting pipe, wherein the filter is connected between the second connecting pipe and the second end.

[0030] In some embodiments, the heat exchange device further includes: a third connecting pipe connected to the fourth end.

[0031] An air conditioner according to a third aspect of the present invention includes a heat exchange device according to a second aspect of the present invention.

[0032] According to the present invention, the overall performance of the air conditioner is improved by setting the heat exchange device described in the second aspect.

[0033] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0035] Figure 2 This is a structural schematic diagram of a heat exchange device according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the valve assembly shown (excluding the expansion valve and the first connecting pipe);

[0037] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the valve assembly from another angle;

[0038] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 The diagram shows another angle of the valve assembly.

[0039] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 Sectional view of line AA in the middle;

[0040] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of a portion of the image;

[0041] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the filter screen and mounting bracket shown in the figure;

[0042] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 The diagram shows the structure of the mounting bracket.

[0043] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the mounting bracket from another angle is shown;

[0044] Figure 11 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows the structure of the valve assembly (excluding the expansion valve);

[0045] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the valve assembly from another angle;

[0046] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 The diagram shows another angle of the valve assembly.

[0047] Figure 14 It is along Figure 13 Sectional view of the middle BB line;

[0048] Figure 15 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the heat exchanger shown;

[0049] Figure 16 It is along Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the CC line;

[0050] Figure 17This is a structural schematic diagram of a heat exchange device according to other embodiments of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 The diagram shows the structure of the valve assembly (excluding the expansion valve);

[0052] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 A schematic diagram of the valve assembly from another angle;

[0053] Figure 20 It is along Figure 19 Sectional view of the DD line;

[0054] Figure 21 yes Figure 17 A schematic diagram of the valve assembly shown (excluding the expansion valve and the first connecting pipe);

[0055] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 A schematic diagram of the valve assembly from another angle;

[0056] Figure 23 It is along Figure 22 A cross-sectional view of the EE line;

[0057] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the filter shown.

[0058] Figure label:

[0059] 1. Heat exchange device;

[0060] 10. Valve assembly;

[0061] 11. Valve island; 111. Flow channel; 112. First interface;

[0062] 113, Valve core interface; 113a, First valve core interface; 113b, Second valve core interface;

[0063] 114, Flow channel interface; 114a, First flow channel interface; 114b, Second flow channel interface;

[0064] 115, limiting groove; 115a, first limiting groove; 115b, second limiting groove;

[0065] 116. Arrival platform; 116a. First arrival platform; 116b. Second arrival platform;

[0066] 117. Limiting protrusion; 117a. First limiting protrusion; 117b. Second limiting protrusion;

[0067] 1101. Cylinder body; 1102. Mounting section;

[0068] 12. Expansion valve; 12a. First expansion valve; 12b. Second expansion valve;

[0069] 13. Filter components;

[0070] 131. Filter screen; 131a. First filter screen; 131b. First filter screen;

[0071] 1311, filter aperture; 1311a, first filter aperture; 1311b, second filter aperture;

[0072] 132. Mounting bracket; 132a. First mounting bracket; 132b. Second mounting bracket; 1321. Fixing groove;

[0073] 14. First takeover;

[0074] 20. Heat exchanger; 23. Heat exchange unit; 24. First end plate; 25. Second end plate;

[0075] 21. First channel; 211. First end; 212. Second end;

[0076] 22. Second channel; 221. Third end; 222. Fourth end;

[0077] 30. Filter; 40. Second connecting pipe; 50. Third connecting pipe;

[0078] 100. Air conditioner;

[0079] 2. Compressor; 3. Outdoor heat exchanger; 5. Four-way valve;

[0080] 4. Indoor unit; 401. Indoor heat exchange device; 402. Throttling element; 403. Second filter. Detailed Implementation

[0081] The embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model.

[0082] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "transverse", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.

[0083] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this utility model, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0084] The following is for reference. Figures 1-24 The valve assembly 10 according to a first aspect embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0085] like Figures 2-7 As shown, the valve assembly 10 according to the first aspect of the present invention includes: a valve island 11, an expansion valve 12, and a filter assembly 13.

[0086] Specifically, a flow channel 111 is defined within the valve island 11. The valve island 11 has a first interface 112, a valve core interface 113, and a flow channel interface 114 that communicate with the flow channel 111. An expansion valve 12 is installed at the valve core interface 113 and is connected between the first interface 112 and the flow channel interface 114. A filter assembly 13 is disposed within the flow channel 111 and is located between the first interface 112 and the valve core interface 113. The filter assembly 13 has a plurality of filter holes 1311, which include a plurality of first filter holes 1311a and a plurality of second filter holes 1311b. The equivalent diameter of the first filter holes 1311a is different from the equivalent diameter of the second filter holes 1311b.

[0087] Among them, such as Figures 3-6As shown, the first interface 112 is used to connect to an external pipeline, the valve core interface 113 is used to install and fix the expansion valve 12, and the number of valve core interfaces 113 can be one or more, for example, the number of valve core interfaces 113 can be one, two, three, four or more, etc. The flow channel interface 114 is used to connect to the heat exchange flow channel (for example, the first channel 21 and the second channel 22 of the heat exchanger 20 described below). The number of flow channel interfaces 114 can be one or more, for example, the number of flow channel interfaces 114 can be one, two, three, four or more, etc. Furthermore, the number of valve core interfaces 113 and the number of flow channel interfaces 114 can correspond one-to-one.

[0088] In some examples, the expansion valve 12 has a first inlet and a second inlet and a third inlet. Both the first inlet and the second inlet and a third inlet of the expansion valve 12 are connected to the valve core interface 113. Specifically, the refrigerant can enter the flow channel 111 from the first interface 112 and then flow through the flow channel 111 to the valve core interface 113. At the valve core interface 113, the refrigerant in the flow channel 111 can enter the expansion valve 12 through the first inlet and a third inlet. After passing through the valve port of the expansion valve 12, it flows out from the second inlet and a third inlet of the expansion valve 12 back to the valve core interface 113, and then flows to the flow channel interface 114. Finally, it flows out of the valve assembly 10 from the flow channel interface 114 and enters the heat exchange flow channel of the heat exchanger 20 for heat exchange.

[0089] The filter assembly 13 installed in the flow channel 111 can effectively filter the refrigerant flowing through the flow channel 111, preventing impurities in the refrigerant from flowing to the valve core interface 113, preventing impurities from entering the expansion valve 12 and blocking the valve port of the expansion valve 12, and preventing impurities from hindering the movement of the valve needle of the valve core component of the expansion valve 12. This ensures that the expansion valve 12 of the valve assembly 10 can work normally, and also reduces the flow resistance of the refrigerant, ensuring that the refrigerant passes through the valve assembly 10 normally and smoothly.

[0090] In some examples, such as Figure 6 and Figure 22 As shown, the filter assembly 13 has a plurality of first filter holes 1311a and a plurality of second filter holes 1311b, and the equivalent diameter of the first filter hole 1311a can be greater than the equivalent diameter of the second filter hole 1311b, and the equivalent diameter of the first filter hole 1311a can also be smaller than the equivalent diameter of the second filter hole 1311b.

[0091] When filter holes 1311 with larger equivalent diameter and filter holes 1311 with smaller equivalent diameter are arranged along the refrigerant flow direction, the filter assembly 13 can filter flocculent and larger impurities at the position of filter hole 1311 with larger equivalent diameter, and filter smaller impurities at the position of filter hole 1311 with smaller equivalent diameter. This achieves graded filtration of impurities in the refrigerant, improving the filtration effect and filtration efficiency.

[0092] When the first filter orifice 1311a and the second filter orifice 1311b with different equivalent diameters are arranged in the cross-section of the flow channel 111, for example, when the first filter orifice 1311a and the second filter orifice 1311b are arranged radially in the flow channel 111, the filter assembly 13 can have a better filtration capability for various types of impurities at the position of the filter orifice 1311 with a smaller equivalent diameter. When the position of the filter orifice 1311 with a smaller equivalent diameter is blocked, the position of the filter orifice 1311 with a larger equivalent diameter can filter impurities in the refrigerant while ensuring that the refrigerant flows smoothly in the flow channel 111, reducing flow resistance and improving the flow capacity of the refrigerant.

[0093] According to the valve assembly 10 of this utility model embodiment, by providing a filter component 13 in the flow channel 111 of the valve island 11, the refrigerant flowing through the flow channel 111 can be effectively filtered, preventing impurities in the refrigerant from entering the expansion valve 12 and clogging the valve port of the expansion valve 12 and hindering the movement of the valve needle, thus ensuring that the expansion valve 12 can work normally. By making the filter component 13 have a first filter hole 1311a and a second filter hole 1311b with equivalent diameters, the impurities in the refrigerant can be filtered in stages, improving the filtration effect and filtration efficiency. It can also ensure that the refrigerant flows smoothly when passing through the filter component 13, reducing flow resistance, improving the flow capacity of the refrigerant, and ensuring that the refrigerant passes through the valve assembly 10 normally and smoothly.

[0094] When the valve assembly 10 of this embodiment is applied to the air conditioner 100, when the air conditioner 100 is in cooling mode, the refrigerant enters the valve island 11 from the first interface 112 and flows out of the valve island 11 from the flow channel interface 114.

[0095] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 6 and Figure 23 As shown, the filter assembly 13 includes a filter screen 131, on which a plurality of filter holes 1311 are formed. By including a filter screen 131 in this embodiment, the structure of the filter assembly 13 can be simplified and the cost of the filter assembly 13 can be reduced while achieving effective filtration of the refrigerant.

[0096] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 23 and Figure 24As shown, a plurality of first filter holes 1311a and a plurality of second filter holes 1311b are formed on the filter screen 131. The first filter hole 1311a is located on the side of the second filter hole 1311b facing the first interface 112, and the equivalent diameter of the first filter hole 1311a is smaller than the equivalent diameter of the second filter hole 1311b.

[0097] like Figure 23 As shown, the filter 131 is a cylindrical shape with one end open and the other end closed. The opening of the filter 131 is positioned away from the first interface 112, and the bottom wall of the filter 131 is positioned towards the first interface 112. In the direction from the opening of the filter 131 towards the bottom wall of the filter 131, the diameter of at least a portion of the filter 131 gradually decreases. Furthermore, a plurality of first filter holes 1311a and a plurality of second filter holes 1311b are formed on the filter 131. The plurality of first filter holes 1311a are formed in the area where the bottom wall of the filter 131 is located. Alternatively, a portion of the first filter holes 1311a may be formed on the end of the peripheral wall of the filter 131 facing the first interface 112. The plurality of second filter holes 1311b are formed in the area where the peripheral wall of the filter 131 is located. Both the first filter holes 1311a and the second filter holes 1311b are circular holes, and the diameter of the first filter hole 1311a is smaller than the diameter of the second filter hole 1311b.

[0098] At this time, when the refrigerant flows into the valve island 11 from the first interface 112, the multiple first filter holes 1311a are not only located upstream of the multiple second filter holes 1311b in the refrigerant flow direction, but also located on the outer periphery of the multiple first filter holes 1311a. When the filter screen 131 filters the refrigerant, the bottom wall of the filter screen 131, which is formed with multiple first filter holes 1311a, can have a good filtration capacity for various types of impurities. When the bottom wall of the filter screen 131 is blocked, the peripheral wall of the filter screen 131, which is formed with multiple second filter holes 1311b, can provide better flow capacity for the refrigerant and reduce flow resistance while filtering impurities.

[0099] In some embodiments of this utility model, reference is made to Figure 6 The filter screens 131 are multiple, and the multiple filter screens 131 are arranged sequentially in the direction of the first interface 112 toward the valve core interface 113. For example, the number of filter screens 131 can be two, three, four or more. In this way, multi-stage filtration of refrigerant can be achieved, effectively filtering impurities of different sizes, reducing the probability of filter assembly 13 being clogged, and extending the service life of filter assembly 13.

[0100] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 6As shown, in two adjacent filter screens 131, the filter hole 1311 on the filter screen 131 closer to the first interface 112 is the first filter hole 1311a, and the filter hole 1311 on the filter screen 131 farther from the first interface 112 is the second filter hole 1311b. The equivalent diameter of the first filter hole 1311a is greater than the equivalent diameter of the second filter hole 1311b.

[0101] For example Figure 6 As shown, the filter assembly 13 includes two filter screens 131, namely a first filter screen 131a and a second filter screen 131b. The two filter screens 131 are arranged at intervals in the direction from the first interface 112 toward the valve core interface 113, and the first filter screen 131a is arranged on the side of the second filter screen 131b facing the first interface 112. The first filter screen 131a has a first filter hole 1311a formed on it, and the second filter screen 131b has a plurality of second filter holes 1311b formed on it. The diameter of the first filter hole 1311a is larger than the diameter of the second filter hole 1311b.

[0102] When refrigerant flows into the flow channel 111 from the first port 112, the first filter 131a, which is located near the first port 112, can filter out flocculent and larger impurities in the refrigerant, and the second filter 131b can filter out smaller impurities. This achieves graded filtration of impurities in the refrigerant, efficiently filters impurities of different sizes, reduces the probability of the filter assembly 13 being blocked, and extends the service life of the filter assembly 13.

[0103] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 6 and Figure 23 As shown, the filter 131 is formed as a cylindrical structure with one end open and the other end closed. The opening of the filter 131 is located away from the first interface 112, and a plurality of filter holes 1311 are formed on the peripheral wall and / or bottom wall of the filter 131.

[0104] In this embodiment, the filter 131 is formed into a cylindrical structure with one end open and the other closed, and multiple filter holes 1311 are formed on both the peripheral wall and the bottom wall of the filter 131. This not only significantly increases the surface area of ​​the filter 131, enhancing its dirt-holding capacity and reducing the risk of clogging, but also improves its structural strength, increasing its impact resistance and reducing the risk of damage under refrigerant scouring. Furthermore, the cylindrical structure of the filter 131 facilitates installation on the inner wall of the flow channel 111, allowing for a seal at the connection point and reducing the probability of leakage at this point.

[0105] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, at least a portion of the cross-sectional dimensions of filter screen 131 gradually decrease in the direction from the opening of filter screen 131 toward the bottom wall. For example, the cross-sectional dimensions of filter screen 131 gradually decrease in the direction from the opening of filter screen 131 toward the bottom wall. Also, the peripheral wall of filter screen 131 includes a variable-diameter section and a constant-diameter section, with the variable-diameter section connecting the constant-diameter section to the bottom wall of filter screen 131. In the direction from valve core interface 113 toward the first interface 112, the cross-sectional dimensions of the constant-diameter section are equal everywhere, while the cross-sectional dimensions of the variable-diameter section gradually decrease.

[0106] Therefore, by making at least a portion of the cross-sectional dimensions of the filter screen 131 gradually decrease in the direction toward the bottom wall of the filter screen 131, this embodiment not only facilitates the refrigerant flushing of the filter screen 131 and reduces the probability of impurities in the refrigerant accumulating on the filter screen 131, but also reduces the turbulence loss generated when the refrigerant flows through the filter screen 131, reducing the flow resistance and pressure loss of the refrigerant. In addition, it is more convenient to install the filter screen 131 into the flow channel 111 of the valve island 11, improving installation efficiency.

[0107] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 23 As shown, the filter assembly 13 also includes a mounting bracket 132, which extends in a ring shape along the circumference of the filter screen 131. The filter screen 131 is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the flow channel 111 via the mounting bracket 132. In this embodiment, by providing the mounting bracket 132 for mounting the filter screen 131, the filter screen 131 can be easily fixed to the inner wall of the flow channel 111, improving installation efficiency and the reliability of the fixation between the filter screen 131 and the inner wall of the flow channel 111. By making the mounting bracket 132 ring-shaped, the filter screen 131 can be tightly fitted to the inner wall of the flow channel 111 via the mounting bracket 132, reducing the risk of refrigerant leakage between the mounting bracket 132 and the inner wall of the flow channel 111. Furthermore, the ring-shaped mounting bracket 132 has higher structural strength and can also ensure that the filter screen 131 is subjected to uniform force in the circumferential direction, reducing the risk of deformation of the filter screen 131 and the mounting bracket 132.

[0108] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 6 and Figure 23As shown, a limiting groove 115 is formed on the peripheral wall of the flow channel 111. The limiting groove 115 extends in a ring shape along the circumference of the filter screen 131, and at least a portion of the mounting bracket 132 is fitted into the limiting groove 115. The limiting groove 115 can be one or more. When there are multiple limiting grooves 115, they can be arranged sequentially along the refrigerant flow direction. During assembly, only a portion of the mounting bracket 132 can fit into the limiting groove 115, or the entire mounting bracket 132 can fit into the limiting groove 115. For example, a limiting protrusion can be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the mounting bracket 132. The limiting protrusion extends in a ring shape along the circumference of the mounting bracket 132, or there can be multiple limiting protrusions arranged at intervals along the circumference of the mounting bracket 132. The mounting bracket 132 can fit into the limiting groove 115 through the limiting protrusions.

[0109] In this embodiment, by forming a limiting groove 115 on the peripheral wall of the flow channel 111, when assembling the filter screen 131, the filter screen 131 can be fixedly connected to the mounting bracket 132 first, and then the mounting bracket 132 can be fixed in the limiting groove 115. Thus, the limiting groove 115 can fix and limit the mounting bracket 132, preventing it from shifting or moving along the refrigerant flow direction under the impact of the refrigerant, thereby improving the reliability of the fixed connection between the mounting bracket 132 and the inner wall of the flow channel 111. Furthermore, the limiting groove 115 has a simple structure, simplifying the connection structure between the mounting bracket 132 and the inner wall of the flow channel 111, and is easy to manufacture.

[0110] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, when there are multiple mounting brackets 132, there can also be multiple limiting slots 115, with each limiting slot 115 corresponding to one of the mounting brackets 132. This allows for the installation and limiting of each mounting bracket 132.

[0111] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 6 and Figure 23 As shown, an abutment platform 116 and a limiting protrusion 117 are formed on the inner wall of the flow channel 111. Both the abutment platform 116 and the limiting protrusion 117 extend in a ring shape along the circumference of the filter screen 131. The abutment platform 116 is located on the side of the limiting protrusion 117 opposite to the first interface 112. The abutment platform 116 and the limiting protrusion 117 cooperate with the inner wall of the flow channel 111 to define a limiting groove 115. Therefore, it is not only convenient to form the limiting groove 115, but also convenient to assemble the mounting bracket 132, improving assembly efficiency.

[0112] The surface of the abutment platform 116 facing the first interface 112 is formed as a stepped surface on the inner wall of the flow channel 111. The stepped surface is a plane arranged perpendicular to the axial direction of the first interface 112. Limiting protrusions 117 are formed on the stepped surface facing the first interface 112 and are spaced apart from the stepped surface in the axial direction of the first interface 112 to define a limiting groove 115 for holding the mounting bracket 132.

[0113] In some examples, such as Figure 6 As shown, the peripheral wall of the flow channel 111 includes multiple peripheral wall segments, each of which is a cylindrical surface. These segments are sequentially connected along the refrigerant flow direction, and adjacent segments have different diameters. The diameters of the segments decrease sequentially from the first interface 112 towards the valve core interface 113. Adjacent segments are connected by stepped surfaces arranged axially perpendicular to the first interface 112. These stepped surfaces form the sidewall of the limiting groove 115 facing away from the first interface 112. A limiting protrusion 117 is formed by radially protruding inwards from the surface of the peripheral wall segment. This reduces the machining difficulty of the limiting groove 115 and improves the assembly efficiency of the mounting bracket 132 and the filter screen 131.

[0114] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 7 and Figure 22 As shown, the cross-section of the flow channel 111 is circular, and the filter assembly 13 satisfies: D1 > D2 > D3 > D4 > D5, where D1 is the inner diameter of the flow channel 111 located on the side of the limiting protrusion 117 facing the first interface 112, D2 is the outer diameter of the mounting bracket 132, D3 is the inner diameter of the limiting protrusion 117, D4 is the inner diameter of the mounting bracket 132, and D5 is the inner diameter of the abutment platform 116.

[0115] In this embodiment, by making the inner diameter D1 of the flow channel 111 on the side of the limiting protrusion 117 facing the first interface 112 larger than the outer diameter of the mounting bracket 132, the mounting bracket 132 can be easily installed into the flow channel 111 from the side where the first interface 112 is located, thereby improving assembly efficiency.

[0116] In this embodiment, by making the inner diameter D3 of the limiting protrusion 117 larger than the inner diameter D4 of the mounting bracket 132 and smaller than the outer diameter D2 of the mounting bracket 132, it is not only convenient for the mounting bracket 132 to pass through the limiting protrusion 117 and be inserted into the limiting groove 115 during the installation process, but also the limiting protrusion 117 can restrict the mounting bracket 132 from moving toward the first interface 112 along the axial direction of the first interface 112.

[0117] In this embodiment, by making the inner diameter D4 of the mounting bracket 132 larger than the inner diameter D5 of the abutment platform 116, the projection of the mounting bracket 132 in the projection plane perpendicular to the axis of the first interface 112 is completely within the projection range of the abutment platform 116. This not only facilitates the abutment platform 116 to stop the mounting bracket 132, thus restricting the mounting bracket 132 from moving away from the first interface 112 along the axial direction of the first interface 112, but also avoids the mounting bracket 132 occupying additional internal space of the flow channel 111, reducing the flow resistance of the refrigerant.

[0118] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the filter assembly 13 includes a first filter screen 131a, a second filter screen 131b, a first mounting bracket 132a, and a second mounting bracket 132b. Two abutment platforms 116 and two limiting protrusions 117 are formed on the inner wall of the flow channel 111. The two abutment platforms 116 are the first abutment platform 116a and the second abutment platform 116b, respectively. The two limiting protrusions 117 are the first limiting protrusion 117a and the second limiting protrusion 117b, respectively. The first abutment platform 116a and the first limiting protrusion 117a cooperate to define a first limiting groove 115a. The second abutment platform 116b and the second limiting protrusion 117b cooperate to define a second limiting groove 115b. The first limiting groove 115a is located on the side of the second limiting groove 115b facing the first interface 112.

[0119] The first filter screen 131a is fixedly connected to the first mounting bracket 132a as a whole, and a part of the first mounting bracket 132a is limited and fitted in the first limiting groove 115a. The second filter screen 131b is fixedly connected to the second mounting bracket 132b as a whole, and a part of the second mounting bracket 132b is limited and fitted in the second limiting groove 115b.

[0120] Furthermore, such as Figure 7 As shown, the valve assembly 10 can satisfy the following: the inner diameter D1 of the flow channel 111 on the side of the first limiting protrusion 117a facing the first interface 112 > the outer diameter D2 of the first mounting bracket 132a > the inner diameter D3 of the first limiting protrusion 117a > the inner diameter D4 of the first mounting bracket 132a > the inner diameter D5 of the first abutment platform 116a; the inner diameter D1' of the flow channel 111 on the side of the second limiting protrusion 117b facing the first interface 112 > the outer diameter D2' of the second mounting bracket 132b > the inner diameter D3' of the second limiting protrusion 117b > the inner diameter D4' of the second mounting bracket 132b > the inner diameter D5' of the second abutment platform 116b; and the inner diameter D5 of the first abutment platform 116a = the inner diameter D1' of the flow channel 111 on the side of the second limiting protrusion 117b facing the first interface 112.

[0121] During the assembly of the filter assembly 13, the second mounting bracket 132b and the second filter screen 131b are first attached to the second abutment platform 116b using a machining device. Then, a second limiting protrusion 117b is machined at a corresponding position on the inner wall of the flow channel 111 of the valve island 11, allowing the second mounting bracket 132b to be fixed within the flow channel 111. Next, the first filter screen 131a and the first mounting bracket 132a are attached to the first abutment platform 116a using a machining device. Then, a first limiting protrusion 117a is machined at a corresponding position on the inner wall of the flow channel 111, allowing the first mounting bracket 132a to be fixed to the inner wall of the flow channel 111. The outer normal directions of the first filter screen 131a and the second filter screen 131b are opposite to the refrigerant flow direction in the air conditioner's cooling mode.

[0122] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the mounting bracket 132 is connected to the side of the filter 131 facing away from the first interface 112. This facilitates the assembly of the filter assembly 13, prevents the mounting bracket 132 from interfering with the filter 131's refrigerant filtration, and avoids the mounting bracket 132 blocking the first interface 112.

[0123] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figures 8-10 As shown, a fixing groove 1321 is formed on the end face of the mounting bracket 132 facing the first interface 112. The fixing groove 1321 extends in a ring shape along the circumference of the mounting bracket 132. The periphery of the filter screen 131 extends into the fixing groove 1321 and is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the fixing groove 1321. In this way, the filter screen 131 can be fixed in the fixing groove 1321 of the mounting bracket 132 by insertion, which improves assembly efficiency and enhances the connection reliability between the filter screen 131 and the mounting bracket 132.

[0124] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the mounting bracket 132 includes an inner ring portion and an outer ring portion. Both the inner and outer ring portions extend circumferentially along the filter screen 131 in an annular shape, with the inner ring portion arranged radially inside the outer ring portion. Both the inner and outer ring portions extend axially along the first interface 112, and the ends of the inner and outer ring portions facing away from the first interface 112 are connected by a connecting portion. The inner ring portion, outer ring portion, and connecting portion cooperate to define a fixing groove 1321 opening towards the first interface 112. Furthermore, at least a portion of the end of the outer ring portion facing the first interface 112 extends obliquely towards the inner ring portion, thereby reducing the opening size of the fixing groove 1321 and improving the sealing performance between the mounting bracket 132 and the filter screen 131 at the connection position.

[0125] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, there are multiple filter screens 131, which are arranged sequentially from the first interface 112 toward the valve core interface 113. There are also multiple mounting brackets 132, each corresponding to and connected to one of the multiple filter screens 131. The multiple filter screens 131 enable multi-stage filtration of the refrigerant, enhancing the filtration effect. The one-to-one correspondence between the multiple mounting brackets 132 and the multiple filter screens 131 improves the reliability of fixing each filter screen 131.

[0126] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 3 As shown, the valve island 11 includes a cylindrical part 1101 and a mounting part 1102. The cylindrical part 1101 is a cylinder with both ends open. One end of the cylindrical part 1101 defines a first interface 112. The filter assembly 13 is disposed inside the cylindrical part 1101. The mounting part 1102 is connected to the other end of the cylindrical part 1101. The valve core interface 113 and the flow channel interface 114 are both formed on the mounting part 1102. The expansion valve 12 is connected to the mounting part 1102.

[0127] In this embodiment, the valve island 11 includes a cylindrical body portion 1101, and the filter assembly 13 is disposed inside the cylindrical body portion 1101. The cylindrical body portion 1101 can provide assembly space for the filter assembly 13, which facilitates the filter assembly 13 to filter the refrigerant and also facilitates the installation of the filter assembly 13 into the valve island 11, thereby improving the assembly efficiency of the valve assembly 10.

[0128] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 2 , Figures 11-14 As shown, the valve assembly 10 also includes a first connecting pipe 14, one end of which is connected to one end of the cylinder portion 1101, and the other end of which is used to connect to a pipeline in the refrigeration cycle circuit. This allows for convenient connection of the valve assembly 10 to external pipelines.

[0129] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 14 As shown, in the direction from the cylinder portion 1101 toward the first connecting pipe 14, the cross-sectional area of ​​one end of the first connecting pipe 14 gradually decreases. That is, the cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the first connecting pipe 14 connected to the cylinder portion 1101 gradually decreases. When the refrigerant flows from the first connecting pipe 14 to the cylinder portion 1101, the inner peripheral wall of the first connecting pipe 14 in the region where the cross-sectional area gradually decreases can be formed as a guide slope. The guide slope can evenly distribute the refrigerant in the first connecting pipe 14 to the entire cross-sectional area of ​​the cylinder portion 1101, thereby allowing the refrigerant to pass through the filter screen 131 evenly, ensuring that all positions of the filter screen 131 can participate in and effectively filter the refrigerant.

[0130] In some examples, such as Figure 14As shown, the first connecting pipe 14 includes a tapered pipe and an extension pipe. The tapered pipe includes a straight pipe section and a tapered section. The tapered section is connected to one end of the straight pipe section facing the cylindrical part 1101. In the direction from the straight pipe section to the tapered section, the diameter of the tapered section gradually increases.

[0131] Furthermore, the tapered section has a connecting edge that bends radially outward at the end opposite to the straight pipe section. This connecting edge is sealed to the cylindrical portion 1101. The connecting edge can fit radially inside the first interface 112 and be sealed to the inner circumferential wall of the first interface 112. For example, the connecting edge can be welded to the inner circumferential wall or periphery of the first interface 112. Furthermore, the straight pipe section is a straight pipe of equal diameter. One end of the extension pipe is inserted into the straight pipe section and sealed to it. The other end of the extension pipe is used to connect to an external pipeline.

[0132] In some embodiments of this utility model, there are two valve core interfaces 113, namely a first valve core interface 113a and a second valve core interface 113b; there are two expansion valves 12, namely a first expansion valve 12a and a second expansion valve 12b; there are two flow channel interfaces 114, namely a first flow channel interface 114a and a second flow channel interface 114b; a flow divider is formed in the valve island 11, which connects the first valve core interface 113a, the second valve core interface 113b and the first flow channel interface 114a; the first expansion valve 12a is connected to the first valve core interface 113a and the second expansion valve 12b is connected to the second valve core interface 113b.

[0133] When the refrigerant enters the flow channel 111 from the first port 112, it is first filtered by the filter assembly 13, and then flows to the first valve core port 113a and enters the first expansion valve 12a. After the refrigerant flowing out of the first expansion valve 12a reaches the branch port, part of the refrigerant flows to the first flow channel port 114a at the branch port and flows out of the valve assembly 10 from the first flow channel port 114a. The other part of the refrigerant flows to the second valve core port 113b, passes through the second expansion valve 12b, and flows out of the valve assembly 10 through the second flow channel port 114b.

[0134] When the refrigerant enters the valve island 11 from the first flow channel interface 114a, the refrigerant first flows to the branch port position. At the branch port position, part of the refrigerant flows to the first valve core interface 113a and enters the first expansion valve 12a. The refrigerant flowing out of the first expansion valve 12a then flows to the filter assembly 13 and finally flows out of the valve assembly 10 from the first interface 112 position. At the branch port position, another part of the refrigerant flows to the second valve core interface 113b and enters the second expansion valve 12b. The refrigerant flowing out of the second expansion valve 12b flows to the second flow channel interface 114b and flows out of the valve assembly 10 from the second flow channel interface 114b position.

[0135] In this embodiment, the valve assembly 10 includes two expansion valves 12 and two flow channel interfaces 114. The two flow channel interfaces 114 can be connected to the two heat exchange channels of the heat exchanger 20, respectively. By throttling and depressurizing the refrigerant to different degrees through the two expansion valves 12, heat exchange between the two portions of refrigerant can be achieved within the two heat exchange channels. Specifically, in this embodiment, the refrigerant, after being throttled and depressurized by the second expansion valve 12b, can flow back to the compressor 2 after passing through the heat exchanger 20. This allows for the replenishment of gas and increase of enthalpy in the compressor 2, thereby improving the heating capacity and energy efficiency of the air conditioner 100.

[0136] like Figure 2 As shown, the heat exchange device 1 according to the second aspect embodiment of the present invention includes: a heat exchanger 20 and a valve assembly 10 according to the first aspect embodiment of the present invention. The heat exchanger 20 includes a first channel 21 and a second channel 22 for mutual heat exchange. The two ends of the first channel 21 are a first end 211 and a second end 212, respectively. The two ends of the second channel 22 are a third end 221 and a fourth end 222, respectively. The valve assembly 10 is disposed on the heat exchanger 20. A first flow channel interface 114a is connected to the first end 211, and a second flow channel interface 114b is connected to the third end 221.

[0137] In some examples, such as Figure 2 , Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the heat exchanger 20 is a plate heat exchanger, which includes a heat exchange unit 23, a first end plate 24 and a second end plate 25. The first end plate 24 and the second end plate 25 are arranged at intervals in the thickness direction. The heat exchange unit 23 is fixed between the first end plate 24 and the second end plate 25. The heat exchanger 20 has a first channel 21 and a second channel 22 that are arranged at intervals. When the refrigerant flows in the first channel 21 and the second channel 22, it exchanges heat with the inner walls of the first channel 21 and the second channel 22, thereby realizing the heat exchange between the refrigerant in the first channel 21 and the refrigerant in the second channel 22.

[0138] In some examples, such as Figure 15 and Figure 16As shown, the first end 211 and the second end 212 of the first channel 21, and the third end 221 and the fourth end 222 of the second channel 22, all penetrate the first end plate 24 along its thickness direction. The first end 211 and the third end 221 are located at the same end of the first end plate 24 in the length direction and are spaced apart in the width direction of the first end plate 24. The second end 212 and the fourth end 222 are located at the other end of the first end plate 24 in the length direction and are spaced apart in the width direction of the first end plate 24. Therefore, components connected to the heat exchanger 20 (such as the valve assembly 10 and connecting pipes) are all arranged on the same side of the heat exchanger 20, resulting in a compact structure, reduced space occupation, and improved integration of the heat exchange device 1.

[0139] In this embodiment, the heat exchange device 1, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in the air conditioner 100 cooling ( Figure 1 (The solid arrows in the diagram indicate the refrigerant flow direction during refrigeration.) When the refrigerant enters the valve assembly 10 from the first interface 112, it passes through the filter assembly 13 and the first expansion valve 12a in sequence. At the first expansion valve 12a, the refrigerant is throttled and its pressure reduced. Then, it reaches the branch port in the valve island 11. At this time, part of the refrigerant enters the first channel 21 of the heat exchanger 20 through the first flow channel interface 114a and the first end 211. After passing through the first channel 21, it flows out of the heat exchanger 20 from the second end 212. The other part of the refrigerant flows to the second valve core interface 113b, enters the second expansion valve 12b, is throttled and its pressure reduced again, and then enters the second channel 22 of the heat exchanger 20 through the second flow channel interface 114b and the third end 221. At this time, since the refrigerant in the first channel 21 only undergoes one throttling and pressure reduction through the first expansion valve 12a, and the refrigerant in the second channel 22 undergoes two throttling and pressure reductions through the first expansion valve 12a and the second expansion valve 12b, the refrigerant temperature is lower, thereby achieving heat exchange between the lower-temperature refrigerant in the second channel 22 and the higher-temperature refrigerant in the first channel 21.

[0140] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, when the air conditioner is in heating mode ( ) Figure 1(The dashed arrows in the diagram indicate the refrigerant flow direction during heating.) When heating, the refrigerant enters the first channel 21 from the second end 212, then enters the valve island 11 through the first end 211 and the first flow channel interface 114a, reaching the branch port position of the valve island 11. At this time, part of the refrigerant enters the first expansion valve 12a through the first valve core interface 113a for throttling and pressure reduction, then passes through the filter assembly 13 and flows out from the first interface 112 to the outdoor heat exchange device 3 of the air conditioner 100. The other part of the refrigerant enters the second expansion valve 12b through the second valve core interface 113b for throttling and pressure reduction, then enters the second channel 22 through the second flow channel interface 114b and the third end 221, then flows out from the fourth end 222 of the heat exchanger 20, and finally flows to the compressor 2. In the heat exchange device 1, the refrigerant entering the first channel 21 does not undergo any throttling or pressure reduction, while the refrigerant in the second channel 22 undergoes throttling and pressure reduction through the second expansion valve 12b, resulting in a lower refrigerant temperature. This enables heat exchange between the lower-temperature refrigerant in the second channel 22 and the higher-temperature refrigerant in the first channel 21.

[0141] According to the heat exchange device 1 of the present invention, by setting the valve assembly 10 of the first aspect embodiment and by setting the filter assembly 13 in the flow channel 111 of the valve island 11, the refrigerant flowing through the flow channel 111 can be effectively filtered, preventing impurities in the refrigerant from entering the expansion valve 12 and blocking the valve port of the expansion valve 12 and hindering the movement of the valve needle, thus ensuring that the expansion valve 12 can work normally. By making the filter assembly 13 have a first filter hole 1311a and a second filter hole 1311b with equivalent diameters, the impurities in the refrigerant can be filtered in stages, improving the filtration effect and filtration efficiency. It can also ensure that the refrigerant flows smoothly when passing through the filter assembly 13, reducing flow resistance, improving the flow capacity of the refrigerant, and ensuring that the refrigerant passes through the valve assembly 10 normally and smoothly, thereby improving the overall performance of the heat exchange device 1.

[0142] In this embodiment, during heat exchange, the refrigerant entering the second channel 22 always undergoes one more throttling and pressure reduction (through the second expansion valve 12b) than the refrigerant entering the first channel 21. This allows the high and low temperature refrigerants to flow in the first channel 21 and the second channel 22 of the heat exchanger 20, respectively, to achieve heat exchange. At the same time, the refrigerant passing through the second channel 22 can flow directly to the compressor 2 to replenish the compressor 2 and increase its enthalpy, thereby improving the energy efficiency of the air conditioner 100.

[0143] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the heat exchange device 1 also includes a filter 30, which is connected to the second end 212. Thus, when the air conditioner 100 is cooling, the refrigerant enters the valve island 11 from the first port 112 of the valve assembly 10 and is filtered by the filter assembly 13. When the air conditioner 100 is heating, the refrigerant first enters the filter 30, and after being filtered, it enters the first channel 21 of the heat exchanger 20 through the second end 212.

[0144] Therefore, regardless of whether the air conditioner 100 is in heating or cooling mode, the refrigerant entering the heat exchange device 1 can be effectively filtered to remove impurities. This prevents impurities from entering the first channel 21, the second channel 22, the first expansion valve 12a, and the second expansion valve 12b, thus preventing impurities from clogging the heat exchanger 20 and the expansion valve 12 and ensuring the smooth flow of the refrigerant.

[0145] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 2 As shown, the heat exchange device 1 also includes a second connecting pipe 40, and a filter 30 connected between the second connecting pipe 40 and the second end 212. That is, one end of the second connecting pipe 40 is connected to an external pipeline, and the other end is connected to one end of the filter 30, and the other end of the filter 30 is connected to the second end 212 of the first channel 21. This allows for convenient connection of the heat exchange device 1 to an external pipeline.

[0146] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 2 As shown, the heat exchange device 1 also includes a third connecting pipe 50, which is connected to the fourth end 222. Specifically, one end of the third connecting pipe 50 is connected to an external pipeline, and the other end of the third connecting pipe 50 is connected to the fourth end 222 of the second channel 22, thereby facilitating the connection of the heat exchange device 1 to an external pipeline.

[0147] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 2 As shown, the heat exchanger 1 also includes a fourth connecting pipe, which is connected between the filter 30 and the second end 212. This allows for easy connection of the filter 30 to the second end 212 of the first channel 21.

[0148] like Figure 1 As shown, the air conditioner 100 according to the third aspect embodiment of the present invention includes the heat exchange device 1 according to the first aspect embodiment of the present invention.

[0149] According to the embodiment of the present utility model, the air conditioner 100 improves the overall performance of the air conditioner 100 by providing the heat exchange device 1 of the first aspect embodiment described above.

[0150] like Figure 1As shown, the air conditioner 100 includes: a compressor 2, an indoor unit 4, an outdoor heat exchange device 3, a four-way valve 5, and the aforementioned heat exchange device 1. The indoor unit 4 includes at least one indoor module. The indoor module includes an indoor heat exchange device 401, an indoor throttling element 402, and a second filter 403 connected in series. When there are multiple indoor modules, the multiple indoor modules are connected in parallel.

[0151] The four-way valve 5 has a first valve port, a second valve port, a third valve port, and a fourth valve port. The first valve port is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor 2. The second valve port is connected to one end of the outdoor heat exchange device 3. The other end of the outdoor heat exchange device 3 is connected to the first connecting pipe 14 of the heat exchange device 1. One end of the indoor unit 4 is connected to the second connecting pipe 40 of the heat exchange device 1. The other end of the indoor unit 4 is connected to the fourth valve port. The third connecting pipe 50 of the heat exchange device 1 is connected to the third valve port and the return port of the compressor 2, respectively.

[0152] In this embodiment, when the air conditioner 100 is in cooling mode, the refrigerant flows as follows: Figure 1 As shown by the solid arrow in the diagram, after the compressor 2 compresses the low-pressure refrigerant gas, it discharges the high-pressure refrigerant gas from the exhaust port, which then flows sequentially through the four-way valve 5 and the outdoor heat exchange device 3. The refrigerant then flows through the heat exchange device 1, with a portion flowing into the indoor unit 4 and finally returning to the compressor 2 from its return port; the remaining portion returns directly to the compressor 2, thus completing the cycle.

[0153] The flow of refrigerant in the heat exchanger 1 is described in detail below.

[0154] Refrigerant flows into heat exchanger 1 through first pipe 14 and passes through filter assembly 13. While passing through filter assembly 13, the refrigerant sequentially passes through first filter screen 131a and second filter screen 131b to filter impurities from the upstream pipeline. Then, the refrigerant enters first expansion valve 12a through mounting portion 1102 of valve island 11. In cooling mode, first expansion valve 12a is fully open, and the refrigerant is not throttled or depressurized within it. Subsequently, after passing through first expansion valve 12a, a portion of the refrigerant enters second expansion valve 12b through a branch port within mounting portion 1102. The remaining portion flows through the branch port and then through first flow channel interface 114a and the first end 211 of first channel 21 into first channel 21 of heat exchanger 20. This portion of refrigerant flowing into heat exchanger 20 from first expansion valve 12a can be referred to as main refrigerant, while the portion flowing into second expansion valve 12b through branch port of valve island 11 is referred to as auxiliary refrigerant.

[0155] Since the main and auxiliary refrigerants have already undergone impurity filtration in the filter assembly 13, the operating performance of the first expansion valve 12a and the second expansion valve 12b is ensured to be unaffected by impurities in the pipeline. At this time, the opening of the second expansion valve 12b is relatively small, thus throttling and depressurizing the auxiliary refrigerant, reducing its pressure to below the saturation pressure of the current auxiliary refrigerant temperature. Consequently, the auxiliary refrigerant completely vaporizes, its temperature decreases, and it then flows into the second channel 22 of the heat exchanger 20 through the second flow channel interface 114b. The lower-temperature auxiliary refrigerant gas exchanges heat with the higher-temperature main refrigerant liquid within the heat exchanger 20, causing the main refrigerant to cool down.

[0156] Subsequently, the main refrigerant flows out of the heat exchanger 20 from the second end 212 of the first channel 21, and the auxiliary refrigerant flows out of the heat exchanger 20 from the fourth end 222 of the second channel 22. The auxiliary refrigerant then flows back to the return port of the compressor 2 to enter the next cycle. The main refrigerant flows into each indoor module of the indoor unit 4. In the indoor module, it first passes through the second filter 403, and then is throttled by the throttling element 402 before flowing into the indoor heat exchange device 401 for heat exchange. After heat exchange, the main refrigerant returns to the return port of the compressor 2 through the four-way valve 5.

[0157] In this embodiment, when the air conditioner 100 is in heating mode, the refrigerant flow direction of the system is as follows: Figure 1 As indicated by the dashed arrow, compressor 2 compresses the low-pressure refrigerant gas and then discharges high-pressure refrigerant gas. This high-pressure refrigerant gas flows through the four-way valve 5 and into the indoor unit 4. After exchanging heat with the indoor heat exchanger 401, it passes through the fully open indoor throttling element 402 and flows into the heat exchanger 1. Subsequently, some refrigerant flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 3 and eventually returns to the compressor 2 side; the other part returns directly to the compressor 2 side, thus completing the cycle.

[0158] The flow of refrigerant in the heat exchanger 1 is described in detail below.

[0159] The refrigerant flows through the third connector 50 and then through the filter 30. After being filtered for impurities, it flows into the heat exchanger 20 through the second end 212 of the first channel 21. Subsequently, it enters the valve island 11 from the first end 211 of the first channel 21 via the first flow channel interface 114a. At the branch port, the refrigerant is divided into two parts: a main refrigerant and an auxiliary refrigerant. The main refrigerant flows through the first expansion valve 12a, while the auxiliary refrigerant flows through the second expansion valve 12b. As can be seen from the above description, in heating mode, the heat exchanger 20 of the heat exchange device 1 can filter impurities from the refrigerant entering the first and second expansion valves 12a and 12b to ensure the working performance of the first and second expansion valves 12a and 12b. In heating mode, the first expansion valve 12a has a smaller opening, throttling and reducing the pressure of the main refrigerant. For the auxiliary refrigerant, after being throttled and depressurized by the second expansion valve 12b, it flows into the second channel 22 of the heat exchanger 20 through the third end 221 of the second channel 22, where it exchanges heat with the main refrigerant. Then it flows out of the heat exchanger 20 through the fourth end 222 of the second channel 22 and finally returns to the compressor 2.

[0160] The heat exchange device 1 of this utility model integrates the first expansion valve 12a, the second expansion valve 12b, the filter assembly 13, and the filter 30 into a single device via the heat exchanger 20 and the valve island 11. The heat exchange device 1 has a compact design and occupies less space. Meanwhile, the filter assembly 13 with non-uniformly sized filter holes 1311 is provided in the valve island 11, providing better refrigerant flow capacity while ensuring filtration capability.

[0161] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a communication connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0162] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0163] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A valve assembly, characterized in that, include: A valve island, wherein a flow channel is defined within the valve island, and the valve island is formed with a first interface, a valve core interface, and a flow channel interface communicating with the flow channel, wherein the valve core interface is located between the first interface and the flow channel interface; An expansion valve is installed at the valve core interface position and is connected between the first interface and the flow channel interface. A filter assembly is disposed within the flow channel and located between the first interface and the valve core interface. The filter assembly has a plurality of filter holes, including a plurality of first filter holes and a plurality of second filter holes. The equivalent diameter of the first filter holes is different from that of the second filter holes.

2. The valve assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The filter assembly includes a filter screen, on which a plurality of filter holes are formed.

3. The valve assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The filter screen has a plurality of first filter holes and a plurality of second filter holes, the first filter holes being located on the side of the second filter holes facing the first interface, and the equivalent diameter of the first filter holes being smaller than the equivalent diameter of the second filter holes.

4. The valve assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The number of filters is multiple, and the multiple filters are arranged sequentially in the direction from the first interface toward the valve core interface.

5. The valve assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, In two adjacent filter screens, the filter holes on the filter screen closer to the first interface are the first filter holes, and the filter holes on the filter screen farther from the first interface are the second filter holes. The equivalent diameter of the first filter hole is greater than the equivalent diameter of the second filter hole.

6. The valve assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The filter screen is formed as a cylindrical structure with one end open and the other end closed. The opening of the filter screen is located away from the first interface, and a plurality of filter holes are formed on the peripheral wall and / or bottom wall of the filter screen.

7. The valve assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, In the direction from the opening of the filter screen toward the bottom wall, the cross-sectional dimensions of at least a portion of the filter screen gradually decrease.

8. The valve assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The filter assembly further includes a mounting bracket that extends in a ring shape along the circumference of the filter screen, and the filter screen is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the flow channel through the mounting bracket.

9. The valve assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, A limiting groove is formed on the peripheral wall of the flow channel, the limiting groove extends in a ring shape along the circumference of the filter screen, and at least a portion of the mounting bracket is fitted into the limiting groove.

10. The valve assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, An abutment and a limiting protrusion are formed on the inner wall of the flow channel. Both the abutment and the limiting protrusion extend in a ring shape along the circumference of the filter screen. The abutment is located on the side of the limiting protrusion away from the first interface. The abutment, the limiting protrusion and the inner wall of the flow channel cooperate to define the limiting groove.

11. The valve assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that, The cross-section of the flow channel is circular, and the filter assembly satisfies: D1 > D2 > D3 > D4 > D5, where D1 is the inner diameter of the flow channel located on the side of the limiting protrusion facing the first interface, D2 is the outer diameter of the mounting bracket, D3 is the inner diameter of the limiting protrusion, D4 is the inner diameter of the mounting bracket, and D5 is the inner diameter of the abutment platform.

12. The valve assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The mounting bracket is connected to the side of the filter screen opposite to the first interface.

13. The valve assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, A fixing groove is formed on the end face of the mounting bracket facing the first interface. The fixing groove extends in a ring shape along the circumference of the mounting bracket. The periphery of the filter screen extends into the fixing groove and is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the fixing groove.

14. The valve assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The number of filters is multiple, and the multiple filters are arranged sequentially in the direction from the first interface toward the valve core interface. The number of mounting brackets is multiple, and the multiple mounting brackets correspond one-to-one with the multiple filters and are connected.

15. The valve assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve island includes a cylindrical part and a mounting part. The cylindrical part is a cylinder with both ends open. One end of the cylindrical part defines the first interface. The filter assembly is disposed inside the cylindrical part. The mounting part is connected to the other end of the cylindrical part. The valve core interface and the flow channel interface are both formed on the mounting part. The expansion valve is connected to the mounting part.

16. The valve assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that, Also includes: The first connecting pipe has one end connected to the other end of the cylindrical body.

17. The valve assembly according to claim 16, characterized in that, In the direction of the cylindrical portion toward the first connecting pipe, the cross-sectional area of ​​one end of the first connecting pipe gradually decreases.

18. The valve assembly according to any one of claims 1-17, characterized in that, The valve core interface has two parts, designated as a first valve core interface and a second valve core interface; the expansion valve has two parts, designated as a first expansion valve and a second expansion valve; and the flow channel interface has two parts, designated as a first flow channel interface and a second flow channel interface. The valve island has a flow divider, which connects the first valve core interface, the second valve core interface, and the first flow channel interface. The first expansion valve is connected to the first valve core interface, and the second expansion valve is connected to the second valve core interface.

19. A heat exchange device, characterized in that, include: A heat exchanger, comprising a first channel and a second channel for mutual heat exchange, wherein the two ends of the first channel are a first end and a second end, and the two ends of the second channel are a third end and a fourth end, respectively. According to claim 18, the valve assembly is disposed on the heat exchanger, the first flow channel interface is connected to the first end, and the second flow channel interface is connected to the third end.

20. The heat exchange device according to claim 19, characterized in that, Also includes: A filter, which is connected to the second end.

21. The heat exchange device according to claim 20, characterized in that, Also includes: The filter is connected between the second connector and the second end.

22. The heat exchange device according to claim 19, characterized in that, Also includes: The third connector is connected to the fourth end.

23. An air conditioner, characterized in that, Includes the heat exchange device according to any one of claims 19-22.

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