Thermal management system and air conditioner

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of heat management system and air conditioner, it is related to air conditioner technical field, wherein, heat management system includes integrated valve island, heat exchanger assembly and temperature sensing module;Integrated valve island includes valve island ontology and first throttling device, multiple flow passages are equipped in the valve island ontology, and the first throttling device is integrated on the flow passage;Heat exchanger assembly includes plate heat exchanger, and the plate heat exchanger is equipped with the first refrigerant inlet and outlet and first refrigerant inlet communicating the flow passage;Temperature sensing module is at least partially placed in the flow passage, to carry out temperature detection to the refrigerant flowing through the temperature sensing module;The technical scheme provided by the utility model can realize accurate temperature measurement.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of air conditioner technology, and in particular to a thermal management system and an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] During the operation of an air conditioner, the operating status of the air conditioner needs to be adjusted by measuring the temperature of the refrigerant. In the existing technology, the temperature sensor is directly embedded on the outer wall of the pipe that delivers the refrigerant, and heat is obtained through direct contact with the outer wall of the pipe to achieve temperature detection.

[0003] However, piping typically has high thermal conductivity. While this high conductivity is beneficial in some ways, it becomes a critical issue for temperature measurement. Because of the high thermal conductivity of the piping, heat is conducted rapidly, causing the temperature sensor to measure not the precise temperature of the fluid, but rather the combined temperature after heat conduction through the piping. This method of temperature measurement results in a significant deviation between the detected temperature and the actual fluid temperature, thus affecting the accurate control of the system and the stable operation of the air conditioner. Utility Model Content

[0004] The main purpose of this invention is to propose a thermal management system and an air conditioner, which aims to achieve accurate temperature measurement.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the thermal management system proposed in this utility model includes:

[0006] An integrated valve island includes a valve island body and a first throttling device. The valve island body has multiple flow channels, and the first throttling device is integrated into the flow channels.

[0007] A heat exchanger assembly includes a plate heat exchanger, the plate heat exchanger having a first refrigerant inlet and outlet and a first refrigerant inlet communicating with the flow channel; and

[0008] A temperature sensing module, at least partially placed within the flow channel, is used to detect the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the temperature sensing module.

[0009] In one embodiment, the valve island body is provided with an installation port communicating with the flow channel, and the temperature sensing module includes a thermally conductive temperature sensing sleeve and a temperature sensor, wherein the temperature sensing sleeve is inserted into the flow channel through the installation port.

[0010] In one embodiment, a coolant gap is formed between the outer surface of the temperature-sensing sleeve extending into the flow channel and the inner wall surface of the flow channel.

[0011] In one embodiment, the temperature-sensing sleeve has a receiving cavity, and the temperature-sensing probe of the temperature sensor is built into the receiving cavity and abuts against the cavity wall.

[0012] In one embodiment, a heat-conducting layer is provided between the temperature sensing probe and the cavity wall of the receiving cavity;

[0013] The thermally conductive layer can be configured as a thermally conductive gel layer or a silicone grease layer.

[0014] In one embodiment, the temperature sensing module further includes a sealing and limiting sleeve, which is arranged around the periphery of the temperature sensing sleeve and is sealed and fixed to the mounting port.

[0015] In one embodiment, the flow channel includes a first refrigerant circuit connecting the first throttling device and the first refrigerant inlet, and the temperature sensing module is disposed in the first refrigerant circuit.

[0016] In one embodiment, the first refrigerant circuit includes a main circuit and a temperature sensing cavity connected in series, and the temperature sensing module is at least partially built into the temperature sensing cavity.

[0017] In one embodiment, the main circuit includes a first circuit segment and a second circuit segment that are bent and connected. The second circuit segment is connected between the first circuit segment and the first refrigerant inlet. The temperature sensing cavity is located on opposite sides of the first circuit segment.

[0018] In one embodiment, the first throttling device includes a first electronic expansion valve and a capillary tube, wherein the first electronic expansion valve is connected to the first refrigerant inlet and outlet via the capillary tube.

[0019] In one embodiment, the integrated valve island further includes a second throttling device integrated into the flow channel. The first throttling device and the second throttling device are respectively disposed on two branches on the flow channel, and the first throttling device and the second throttling device are arranged at intervals along the width direction of the plate heat exchanger.

[0020] In one embodiment, the plate heat exchanger includes a plurality of heat exchange plates and a first plate and a second plate disposed on both sides of the heat exchange plates. The first plate includes a planar portion, and the integrated valve island is disposed on the planar portion. The included angle between the projections of the first throttling device and the second throttling device onto the plane where the planar portion is located is α, where 0°≤α≤60°.

[0021] In one embodiment, the plate heat exchanger includes a plurality of heat exchange plates and a first plate and a second plate disposed on both sides of the heat exchange plates. The first plate includes a planar portion, and the integrated valve island is disposed on the planar portion. The angle between the axis of the first throttling device and the plane containing the planar portion is b, -30°≤b≤30°; and / or, the angle between the axis of the second throttling device and the plane containing the planar portion is c, -30°≤c≤30°.

[0022] In one embodiment, the first throttling device includes a first electronic expansion valve, the first throttling device including a first coil portion disposed outside the integrated valve island and a first valve core extending at least into the integrated valve island, the first coil portion being disposed above or diagonally above the integrated valve island; and / or

[0023] The second throttling device includes a second electronic expansion valve, the second throttling device includes a second coil portion disposed outside the integrated valve island and a second valve core extending at least into the integrated valve island, the second coil portion being disposed above or diagonally above the integrated valve island.

[0024] In one embodiment, the first throttling device includes a first electronic expansion valve, and the projection of the first coil portion of the first throttling device onto the plane of the plate heat exchanger at least partially covers the projection onto the plate heat exchanger; and / or

[0025] The second throttling device includes a second electronic expansion valve, and the projection of the second coil portion of the second throttling device onto the plane of the plate heat exchanger at least partially covers the projection onto the plate heat exchanger.

[0026] This utility model also proposes an air conditioner, which includes the thermal management system described above.

[0027] In the technical solution of this utility model, the first throttling device and the plate heat exchanger are integrated on the valve island body, making reasonable use of the space around the valve island body. At the same time, a flow channel connecting the first throttling device and the plate heat exchanger is formed inside the valve island, reducing the number of refrigerant pipes in the thermal management system, further reducing the overall volume of the thermal management system, and improving the integration level of the thermal management system.

[0028] The thermal management system also includes a temperature sensing module. Compared to temperature sensing modules that detect refrigerant temperature by transferring heat through contact with the valve island body, placing at least part of the temperature sensing module inside the flow channel allows the temperature sensing module to directly contact the refrigerant in the flow channel, thus fully acquiring heat and reducing heat conduction between the temperature sensing module and the valve island body. This effectively improves the accuracy of refrigerant temperature detection and facilitates precise control of the opening of auxiliary valves based on the refrigerant's superheat, ensuring that the thermal management system always operates under a relatively ideal superheat state and improving system efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0029] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0030] Figure 1 A front view of an embodiment of the thermal management system provided by this utility model;

[0031] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A sectional view of the central heat management system taken along the AA section line;

[0032] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Top view of the central heat management system;

[0033] Figure 4 for Figure 1 Right view of the central heat management system;

[0034] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the plate heat exchanger and the first electronic expansion valve.

[0035] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first and second electronic expansion valves arranged at an angle;

[0036] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerant flow direction in the plate heat exchanger and integrated valve island under heating mode.

[0037] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerant flow direction in the thermal management system under heating mode;

[0038] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerant flow direction in the thermal management system during cooling mode.

[0039] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0040] 10. Integrated valve island; 11. Valve island body; 111. Mounting port; 12. Flow channel; 121. Main circuit; 1211. First circuit section; 1212. Second circuit section; 122. Temperature sensing cavity; 13. First throttling device; 131. First electronic expansion valve; 132. Capillary tube; 14. Second throttling device; 141. Second electronic expansion valve;

[0041] 20. Heat exchanger assembly; 21. Plate heat exchanger; 211. First refrigerant inlet; 212. First refrigerant inlet and outlet; 213. Second refrigerant inlet and outlet; 214. Second refrigerant outlet; 215. Heat exchange plate; 216. First plate; 217. Second plate; 22. Evaporator; 23. Condenser; 24. Filter;

[0042] 30. Temperature sensing module; 31. Temperature sensing sleeve; 311. Receiving cavity; 32. Sealing limit sleeve; 40. Compressor.

[0043] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this utility model will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present utility model.

[0045] It should be noted that if the embodiments of this utility model involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0046] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this utility model involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or" or "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model.

[0047] During the operation of an air conditioner, the operating status of the air conditioner needs to be adjusted by measuring the temperature of the refrigerant. In the existing technology, the temperature sensor is directly embedded on the outer wall of the pipe that delivers the refrigerant, and heat is obtained through direct contact with the outer wall of the pipe to achieve temperature detection.

[0048] However, piping typically has high thermal conductivity. While this high conductivity is beneficial in some ways, it becomes a critical issue for temperature measurement. Because of the high thermal conductivity of the piping, heat is conducted rapidly, causing the temperature sensor to measure not the precise temperature of the fluid, but rather the combined temperature after heat conduction through the piping. This method of temperature measurement results in a significant deviation between the detected temperature and the actual fluid temperature, thus affecting the accurate control of the system and the stable operation of the air conditioner.

[0049] For example, some systems require precise control of auxiliary valve openings by measuring the superheat of the fluid. However, due to the aforementioned temperature detection bias, controlling auxiliary valve openings using superheat is difficult to implement in current piping designs, specifically valve island designs. This inaccurate temperature measurement not only reduces the system's control precision but may also affect the stability and efficiency of the entire system.

[0050] To solve this technical problem, this utility model proposes a thermal management system.

[0051] Please see Figures 1 to 5 In one embodiment of this utility model, the thermal management system includes an integrated valve island 10, a heat exchanger assembly 20, and a temperature sensing module 30. The integrated valve island 10 includes a valve island body 11 and a first throttling device 13. The valve island body 11 has multiple flow channels 12, and the first throttling device 13 is integrated on the flow channels 12. The heat exchanger assembly 20 includes a plate heat exchanger 21. The plate heat exchanger 21 has a first refrigerant inlet / outlet 212 and a first refrigerant inlet 211 that communicate with the flow channels 12. The temperature sensing module 30 is at least partially placed in the flow channels 12 to detect the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the temperature sensing module 30, thereby achieving accurate temperature measurement.

[0052] In the technical solution of this utility model, the first throttling device 13 and the plate heat exchanger 21 are integrated on the valve island body 11, making reasonable use of the space around the valve island body 11. At the same time, a flow channel 12 connecting the first throttling device 13 and the plate heat exchanger 21 is formed inside the valve island, reducing the number of refrigerant pipes in the thermal management system, further reducing the overall volume of the thermal management system, and improving the integration level of the thermal management system.

[0053] The thermal management system also includes a temperature sensing module 30. Compared to the temperature sensing module 30 detecting the refrigerant temperature by contacting the valve island body 11 for heat transfer, placing at least a portion of the temperature sensing module 30 inside the flow channel 12 allows the temperature sensing module 30 to directly contact the refrigerant inside the flow channel 12, thus fully acquiring heat and reducing heat conduction between the temperature sensing module 30 and the valve island body 11. This effectively improves the detection accuracy of the refrigerant temperature, facilitates precise control of the opening degree of the auxiliary valve based on the superheat of the refrigerant, and ensures that the thermal management system always operates in a relatively ideal superheat state, thereby improving system efficiency.

[0054] It should be noted that the valve island body 11 typically has high thermal conductivity. While this high thermal conductivity is beneficial in some aspects, it becomes a key issue in temperature measurement. Due to the high thermal conductivity of the valve island body 11, heat conduction within it is rapid, causing the temperature measured by the temperature sensing module 30 to be not the precise temperature of the fluid, but rather the overall temperature resulting from heat conduction through the valve island body 11. Therefore, by extending the sensing part of the temperature sensing module 30 into the flow channel 12, the heat conduction between the temperature sensing module 30 and the valve island body 11 is reduced, increasing the effective contact area between the refrigerant and the temperature sensing module 30 to fully absorb heat. This improves the accuracy of refrigerant temperature detection, ensuring precise system control and stable operation of the air conditioner.

[0055] Please see Figure 2 In an embodiment of this utility model, the valve island body 11 is provided with an installation port 111 communicating with the flow channel 12. The temperature sensing module 30 includes a thermally connected temperature sensing sleeve 31 and a temperature sensor. The temperature sensing sleeve 31 is inserted into the flow channel 12 through the installation port 111. With this arrangement, the temperature sensing sleeve 31 can directly contact the refrigerant in the flow channel 12. By utilizing the heat conduction of the temperature sensing sleeve 31, the temperature sensor can directly detect the temperature of the refrigerant through the temperature sensing sleeve 31, effectively improving the accuracy of the temperature sensing module 30 in detecting the refrigerant temperature.

[0056] The temperature sensing module 30 includes a temperature sensing sleeve 31 and a temperature sensor. The temperature sensing sleeve 31 has a simple structure and low cost, and can be adapted to mass-produced electronically controlled sensor heads. It does not require additional expensive sensor materials, which allows the temperature sensing module 30 to balance economy and practicality.

[0057] In one embodiment of this utility model, the temperature sensing module 30 further includes a sealing and limiting sleeve 32. The sealing and limiting sleeve 32 is arranged around the periphery of the temperature sensing sleeve 31 and is sealed and fixed to the mounting port 111. This not only prevents the temperature sensing sleeve 31 from contacting the valve island body 11 too much, ensuring the accuracy of temperature detection, but also ensures the assembly of the temperature sensing module 30 on the valve island body 11. At the same time, it reduces the risk of refrigerant leakage from the mounting port 111 and improves the safety of the thermal management system.

[0058] Furthermore, in an embodiment of this utility model, a refrigerant gap is formed between the outer surface of the temperature-sensing sleeve 31 extending into the flow channel 12 and the inner wall surface of the flow channel 12. That is, the refrigerant entering the flow channel 12 directly scours the temperature-sensing sleeve 31, and due to the surrounding area of ​​the temperature-sensing sleeve 31, specifically as follows... Figure 2As shown, the outer peripheral surface and end face of the temperature-sensing sleeve 31 located in the flow channel 12 form a refrigerant gap with the inner wall surface of the flow channel 12, effectively increasing the thermal contact area between the refrigerant and the temperature-sensing sleeve 31, while reducing the thermal contact area between the temperature-sensing sleeve 31 and the valve island body 11. This allows the measured refrigerant temperature to be closer to the actual refrigerant temperature, thereby improving the accuracy of refrigerant temperature detection. Alternatively, a refrigerant gap can be formed between the outer peripheral surface or end face of the temperature-sensing sleeve 31 and the inner wall surface of the flow channel 12, which also enables direct contact between the refrigerant and the temperature-sensing sleeve 31.

[0059] Please see Figure 2 In an embodiment of this utility model, the temperature-sensing sleeve 31 is provided with a receiving cavity 311, and the temperature-sensing probe of the temperature sensor is built into the receiving cavity 311 and abuts against the cavity wall of the receiving cavity 311. In this way, by directly contacting the cavity wall of the receiving cavity 311 with the temperature-sensing probe, the heat on the temperature-sensing sleeve 31 can be obtained more directly, and the refrigerant temperature can be reliably obtained through the temperature-sensing sleeve 31, thereby realizing the accurate measurement of the refrigerant temperature.

[0060] Furthermore, in an embodiment of this utility model, a heat-conducting layer is provided between the temperature sensing probe and the cavity wall of the receiving cavity 311; with this arrangement, by filling the gap between the temperature sensor and the cavity wall of the receiving cavity 311 with the heat-conducting layer, the heat conduction capacity between the temperature sensor and the temperature sensing sleeve 31 can be effectively increased, thereby achieving low-cost and high-precision refrigerant temperature detection.

[0061] Specifically, the thermally conductive layer can be configured as a thermally conductive gel layer or a silicone grease layer. It is understood that by filling the space between the temperature probe and the temperature sensing sleeve 31 with a thermally conductive gel or silicone grease, it is easy to apply and distribute evenly, thus reliably realizing the heat conduction between the temperature probe and the temperature sensing sleeve 31, while having good thermal conductivity.

[0062] Please see Figures 1 to 2 , Figure 5 In an embodiment of this utility model, the flow channel 12 includes a first refrigerant circuit connecting the first throttling device 13 and the first refrigerant inlet 211. The temperature sensing module 30 is located in the first refrigerant circuit. Thus, the temperature sensing module 30 directly contacts the refrigerant in the first refrigerant circuit. Combined with the fact that the refrigerant has been throttled by the first throttling device 13, this helps to make the detected temperature closer to the actual refrigerant temperature, while reliably ensuring the normal operation of the system. That is, by detecting the refrigerant temperature after throttling, one can intuitively understand whether each functional module of the system is working properly. Each functional module includes, but is not limited to, the first throttling device 13, the second throttling device 14, the evaporator 22, the condenser 23, and the compressor 40. Furthermore, the opening degree of the auxiliary valve can be precisely controlled by the feedback of the detected refrigerant temperature to ensure that the system operates under more precise conditions and improve system efficiency.

[0063] Optionally, in an embodiment of this utility model, the first refrigerant circuit includes a main circuit 121 and a temperature sensing cavity 122 connected together. The temperature sensing module 30 is at least partially built into the temperature sensing cavity 122. It is understood that by adding a temperature sensing cavity 122 on the side of the main circuit 121, the temperature sensing cavity 122 is connected to the main circuit 121 and is used to install the temperature sensing module 30. This does not affect the smooth flow of refrigerant in the main circuit 121, and also enables the temperature sensing module 30 to detect the temperature of the refrigerant after throttling. Furthermore, because a refrigerant gap is formed around the temperature sensing sleeve 31 for the refrigerant flow channel 12, the temperature sensing module 30 can fully obtain heat, which helps to improve the detection accuracy of the refrigerant temperature after throttling.

[0064] Specifically, in an embodiment of this utility model, the main circuit 121 includes a first circuit segment 1211 and a second circuit segment 1212 connected by a bend. The second circuit segment 1212 connects the first circuit segment 1211 and the first refrigerant inlet 211. The temperature sensing cavity 122 is located on opposite sides of the first circuit segment 1211. It can be understood that the opening of the temperature sensing cavity 122 faces the first circuit segment 1211. Part of the refrigerant flowing out of the first circuit segment 1211 flows towards the temperature sensing cavity 122, fully enveloping the temperature sensing sleeve 31 to achieve accurate detection of the refrigerant temperature. The other part enters the plate heat exchanger 21 through the second circuit segment 1212 and the first refrigerant inlet 211. However, this design is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the temperature sensing cavity 122 and the second circuit segment 1212 are located on opposite sides of the first circuit segment 1211.

[0065] Optionally, in an embodiment of this utility model, the first throttling device 13 includes a first electronic expansion valve 131 and a capillary tube 132. The first electronic expansion valve 131 is connected to the first refrigerant inlet / outlet 212 through the capillary tube 132. That is, the refrigerant flowing out of the first refrigerant inlet / outlet 212 enters the capillary tube 132 for primary throttling, and the throttled refrigerant enters the first electronic expansion valve 131 for secondary throttling. The refrigerant after secondary throttling enters the plate heat exchanger 21 through the first refrigerant inlet 211. Thus, through secondary throttling of the refrigerant, the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant are further reduced. This low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant can be more effectively compressed when it enters the compressor 40, thereby absorbing more heat during the compression process and improving efficiency.

[0066] Optionally, in an embodiment of this utility model, the integrated valve island 10 further includes a second throttling device 14 integrated into the flow channel 12. The first throttling device 13 and the second throttling device 14 are respectively disposed on two branches on the flow channel 12. The first throttling device 13 and the second throttling device 14 are arranged at intervals along the width direction of the plate heat exchanger 21. In this case, the first throttling device 13 includes a first electronic expansion valve 131, and the second throttling device 14 includes a second electronic expansion valve 141. The first electronic expansion valve 131 and the second electronic expansion valve 141 are arranged at intervals along the width direction of the plate heat exchanger 21. The electronic expansion valves 131 and 141 are arranged at intervals along the width of the plate heat exchanger 21. Since the first electronic expansion valve 131 and the second electronic expansion valve 141 are respectively located on two branches on the flow channel 12, the flow rate and pressure of the refrigerant are controlled by controlling the opening degree of the first electronic expansion valve 131 and the second electronic expansion valve 141, thereby ensuring the stable operation of the system and improving the system energy efficiency. At the same time, the interval arrangement of the first electronic expansion valve 131 and the second electronic expansion valve 141 along the width of the plate heat exchanger 21 helps to reduce the overall space occupied by the first electronic expansion valve 131 and the second electronic expansion valve 141, further reducing the overall volume of the thermal management system.

[0067] It should be noted that the integrated valve island 10 effectively reduces the number of connecting pipelines, thus eliminating the need for a large amount of labor for the assembly and welding of components. At the same time, it eliminates the need for strict quality control of each weld point and the use of various equipment or tools for processing and testing during the welding process, thereby reducing costs such as labor and material costs and time costs, while simplifying the complexity of the design and manufacturing process.

[0068] Compared to the traditional method where electronic expansion valves and plate heat exchangers 21 are welded together via refrigerant pipes (copper pipes), and adjacent refrigerant pipes need to maintain a certain distance to ensure refrigerant flow and heat dissipation, this method integrates the first electronic expansion valve 131, the second electronic expansion valve 141, and the plate heat exchanger 21 onto the integrated valve island 10. This significantly reduces the connection length of the connecting pipes, effectively lowering the risk of breakage due to vibration stress, and reliably improving the miniaturization and integration level of the thermal management system. It also reduces welding processes, minimizing welding defects such as incomplete welds and leaks, improving the reliability and safety of the thermal management system, ensuring the normal operation of the air conditioner, reducing manual welding pressure, improving assembly efficiency, reducing manufacturing complexity, and saving costs. Furthermore, this integration method simplifies complex multi-split systems, and while ensuring stable system operation, it can be expanded to integrate multiple sets of pipes and multiple electronic expansion valves in the future.

[0069] Furthermore, when the first throttling device 13 includes a first electronic expansion valve 131 and a capillary tube 132, the pipeline between the second electronic expansion valve 141 and the first refrigerant inlet / outlet 212 and the first electronic expansion valve 131 are respectively connected to both ends of the capillary tube 132. This allows a portion of the refrigerant flowing out of the first refrigerant inlet / outlet 212 to enter the capillary tube 132 for primary throttling. The throttled refrigerant then enters the first electronic expansion valve 131 for secondary throttling. The refrigerant that has undergone secondary throttling enters the plate heat exchanger 21 through the first refrigerant inlet 211.

[0070] Please see Figure 6 In an embodiment of this utility model, the plate heat exchanger 21 includes a plurality of heat exchange plates 215 and a first plate 216 and a second plate 217 disposed on both sides of the heat exchange plates 215. The first plate 216 includes a planar portion, and the integrated valve island 10 is disposed on the planar portion. The included angle between the projections of the first throttling device 13 and the second throttling device 14 onto the plane containing the planar portion is α, where 0°≤α≤60°. In this case, the first throttling device 13 includes a first electronic expansion valve 131, and the second throttling device 14 includes a second electronic expansion valve 141. Thus, the first electronic expansion valve 131, the second electronic expansion valve 141, and the integrated valve island 10 are disposed on one side of the plate heat exchanger 21. Figure 1 As shown, by limiting the included angle α of the projections of the first electronic expansion valve 131 and the second electronic expansion valve 141 on the plane of the first plate 216 to between 0° and 60°, the overall volume of the first electronic expansion valve 131 and the second electronic expansion valve 141 can be effectively reduced, thereby reducing the space occupied by the thermal management system.

[0071] Specifically, the included angle between the projections of the first throttling device 13 and the second throttling device 14 includes, but is not limited to, 0°, 10°, 20°, 30°, 40°, 50°, and 60°. Preferably, the included angle α between the projections of the first electronic expansion valve 131131 and the second electronic expansion valve 141132 satisfies: 0°≤a≤45°, and more preferably, a=20°.

[0072] Please see Figure 3In an embodiment of this utility model, the plate heat exchanger 21 includes a plurality of heat exchange plates 215 and a first plate 216 and a second plate 217 disposed on both sides of the heat exchange plates 215. The first plate 216 includes a planar portion, and the integrated valve island 10 is disposed on the planar portion. The angle between the axis of the first throttling device 13 and the plane containing the planar portion is b, -30°≤b≤30°; and / or, the angle between the axis of the second throttling device 14 and the plane containing the planar portion is c, -30°≤c≤30°. In this case, the first throttling device 14... Device 13 includes a first electronic expansion valve 131, and the second throttling device 14 includes a second electronic expansion valve 141. Thus, by limiting the angle between the axes of the first electronic expansion valve 131 and the second electronic expansion valve 141 and the plane where the first plate 216 is located to between -30° and 30°, the valve cores in the first electronic expansion valve 131 and the second electronic expansion valve 141 can be set at a small angle or vertically relative to the plane where the flat portion is located. This facilitates uniform force distribution on the valve core and reduces friction between the refrigerant and the valve core, thereby reliably reducing vibration and wear of the valve core.

[0073] Specifically, the angles between the first throttling device 13 and the second throttling device 14 and the plane containing the planar portion can be, but are not limited to, -30°, -25°, -20°, -15°, -10°, -5°, 0°, 5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, and 30°.

[0074] Please see Figure 1 In an embodiment of this utility model, the first throttling device 13 includes a first electronic expansion valve 131. The first electronic expansion valve 131 includes a first coil portion disposed outside the integrated valve island 10 and a first valve core extending into the integrated valve island 10. The first coil portion is disposed above or diagonally above the integrated valve island 10. Furthermore, by extending the first valve core into the flow channel 12 of the integrated valve island 10, and by setting the first valve core at a small angle or vertically, throttling and pressure reduction of the refrigerant is ensured, while effectively reducing vibration and wear of the first valve core. Moreover, because the first coil portion is disposed above or diagonally above the integrated valve island 10, condensate water can be effectively prevented from flowing into the coil, thereby improving the safety and service life of the first electronic expansion valve 131.

[0075] Please see Figure 1In an embodiment of this utility model, the second throttling device 14 includes a second electronic expansion valve 141. The second electronic expansion valve 141 includes a second coil portion disposed outside the integrated valve island 10 and a second valve core extending at least into the integrated valve island 10. The second coil portion is disposed above or diagonally above the integrated valve island 10. Furthermore, the second valve core is extended into the flow channel 12 of the integrated valve island 10. Combined with the second valve core being disposed at a small angle or vertically, throttling and pressure reduction of the refrigerant is ensured, while effectively reducing vibration and wear of the second valve core. Moreover, because the second coil portion is disposed above or diagonally above the integrated valve island 10, condensate water can also be effectively prevented from flowing into the coil, thereby improving the safety and service life of the second electronic expansion valve 141.

[0076] Please see Figure 1 In an embodiment of this utility model, the first throttling device 13 includes a first electronic expansion valve 131. The projection of the first coil portion of the first electronic expansion valve 131 onto the plane of the plate heat exchanger 21 at least partially covers the projection on the plate heat exchanger 21. That is, the projection of the first coil portion does not protrude from the projection of the side edge of the first plate 216 as much as possible. This can effectively reduce the space occupied by the first electronic expansion valve 131 in the circumferential direction of the corresponding plate heat exchanger 21, thereby helping to reduce the overall volume of the thermal management system.

[0077] Please see Figure 1 In an embodiment of this utility model, the second throttling device 14 includes a second electronic expansion valve 141. The projection of the second coil portion of the second electronic expansion valve 141 onto the plane of the plate heat exchanger 21 at least partially covers the projection on the plate heat exchanger 21. That is, the projection of the second coil portion does not protrude from the projection of the side edge of the first plate 216 as much as possible. This can effectively reduce the occupancy of the second electronic expansion valve 141 in the circumferential space of the corresponding plate heat exchanger 21, thereby helping to reduce the overall volume of the thermal management system.

[0078] It should be noted that, as Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the thermal management system also includes a compressor 40, an evaporator 22, a condenser 23, a second throttling device 14, and a four-way valve, such as... Figure 5The plate heat exchanger 21 shown also has a second refrigerant outlet 214 and a second refrigerant inlet and outlet 213. The four-way valve has an exhaust pipe end D, an evaporator 22 end E, a suction pipe end S, and a condenser 23 end C. The exhaust pipe end D is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor 40, the evaporator 22 end E is connected to the indoor heat exchanger (evaporator 22), the suction pipe end S is connected to the return port of the compressor 40, and the condenser 23 end C is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger (condenser 23). By changing the connection method of the above four pipes, the cooling mode and heating mode of the thermal management system can be switched, that is, the refrigerant flow direction can be changed.

[0079] like Figure 9 As shown, in cooling mode, the exhaust pipe D of the four-way valve is connected to the condenser 23 end C, and the evaporator 22 end E is connected to the suction pipe end S. Refrigerant flows out from the compressor 40, enters the condenser 23 through the four-way valve, and then flows into the plate heat exchanger 21. Since the plate heat exchanger 21 and the integrated valve island 10 are integrated structures, the power and the amount of refrigerant returning to the compressor 40 are controlled by controlling the opening degree of the throttling device on the integrated valve island 10. Then, the refrigerant flows out from the first refrigerant inlet and outlet 212 and the second refrigerant outlet 214 respectively. In this way, by throttling the refrigerant, it is ensured that it is within an appropriate range, which can prevent excessive liquid refrigerant from entering the evaporator 22 or the compressor 40, effectively prevent liquid slugging, realize liquid replenishment of the compressor 40, ensure the efficient operation of the compressor 40, and realize the full vaporization of the refrigerant in the evaporator 22.

[0080] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, in heating mode, the exhaust pipe D of the four-way valve can be connected to the evaporator 22 end E, and the condenser 23 end C can be connected to the suction pipe end S. Refrigerant flows out from the compressor 40 and enters the evaporator 22 through the four-way valve. In the evaporator 22, the refrigerant condenses and releases heat, heating the indoor air. The condensed refrigerant flows into the plate heat exchanger 21 through the second refrigerant inlet / outlet 213, and enters the flow channel 12 of the valve island body 11 through the first refrigerant inlet / outlet 212 for diversion. On one branch, the refrigerant flows through the filter 24, and after being throttled by the second throttling device 14 (e.g., the second electronic expansion valve 141), it flows to the condenser 23 and returns to the compressor through the suction pipe end S of the four-way valve. In compressor 40, on another branch, the refrigerant flows through filter 24, then through capillary tube 132 and first electronic expansion valve 131 for secondary throttling, and flows into plate heat exchanger 21 through first refrigerant inlet 211. During this process, the first electronic expansion valve 131 and the first refrigerant inlet 211 are connected through the first refrigerant circuit. Temperature sensing module 30 is set on the first refrigerant circuit to detect the temperature of the refrigerant after throttling, ensuring that it is within an appropriate range, avoiding the refrigerant temperature flowing back to compressor 40 being too low, especially liquid refrigerant, which could cause liquid slugging. It can also prevent the refrigerant temperature flowing back to compressor 40 from being too high, effectively ensuring the normal operation of compressor 40.

[0081] This utility model also proposes an air conditioner, which includes a thermal management system. The specific structure of the thermal management system is as described in the above embodiments. Since this air conditioner adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.

[0082] The above description is merely an exemplary embodiment of the present utility model and does not limit the scope of protection of the present utility model. Any equivalent structural transformations made based on the technical concept of the present utility model and the contents of the present utility model specification and drawings, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the scope of protection of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A thermal management system, characterized in that, include: An integrated valve island includes a valve island body and a first throttling device. The valve island body has multiple flow channels, and the first throttling device is integrated into the flow channels. A heat exchanger assembly, including a plate heat exchanger, wherein the plate heat exchanger is provided with a first refrigerant inlet and outlet and a first refrigerant inlet communicating with the flow channel; as well as A temperature sensing module, at least partially placed within the flow channel, is used to detect the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the temperature sensing module.

2. The thermal management system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The valve island body is provided with an installation port that communicates with the flow channel. The temperature sensing module includes a thermally conductive temperature sensing sleeve and a temperature sensor. The temperature sensing sleeve is inserted into the flow channel through the installation port.

3. The thermal management system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, A coolant gap is formed between the outer surface of the temperature-sensing sleeve that extends into the flow channel and the inner wall of the flow channel.

4. The thermal management system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The temperature-sensing sleeve has a receiving cavity, and the temperature-sensing probe of the temperature sensor is built into the receiving cavity and abuts against the cavity wall.

5. The thermal management system as described in claim 4, characterized in that, A heat-conducting layer is provided between the temperature sensing probe and the cavity wall of the receiving cavity; The thermally conductive layer can be configured as a thermally conductive gel layer or a silicone grease layer.

6. The thermal management system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The temperature sensing module also includes a sealing and limiting sleeve, which is arranged around the temperature sensing sleeve and sealed and fixed to the mounting port.

7. The thermal management system as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The flow channel includes a first refrigerant circuit connecting the first throttling device and the first refrigerant inlet, and the temperature sensing module is located in the first refrigerant circuit.

8. The thermal management system as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The first refrigerant circuit includes a main circuit and a temperature sensing cavity that are connected to each other, and the temperature sensing module is at least partially built into the temperature sensing cavity.

9. The thermal management system as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The main circuit includes a first circuit segment and a second circuit segment that are bent and connected. The second circuit segment is connected between the first circuit segment and the first refrigerant inlet. The temperature sensing cavity is located on opposite sides of the first circuit segment.

10. The thermal management system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first throttling device includes a first electronic expansion valve and a capillary tube, wherein the first electronic expansion valve is connected to the first refrigerant inlet and outlet via the capillary tube.

11. The thermal management system as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The integrated valve island also includes a second throttling device integrated into the flow channel. The first throttling device and the second throttling device are respectively disposed on two branches on the flow channel, and the first throttling device and the second throttling device are arranged at intervals along the width direction of the plate heat exchanger.

12. The thermal management system as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The plate heat exchanger includes multiple heat exchange plates and a first plate and a second plate disposed on both sides of the heat exchange plates. The first plate includes a planar portion, and the integrated valve island is disposed on the planar portion. The included angle between the projections of the first throttling device and the second throttling device onto the plane where the planar portion is located is α, where 0°≤α≤60°.

13. The thermal management system as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The plate heat exchanger includes multiple heat exchange plates and a first plate and a second plate disposed on both sides of the heat exchange plates. The first plate includes a planar portion, and the integrated valve island is disposed on the planar portion. The angle between the axis of the first throttling device and the plane containing the planar portion is b, -30°≤b≤30°; and / or, the angle between the axis of the second throttling device and the plane containing the planar portion is c, -30°≤c≤30°.

14. The thermal management system as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The first throttling device includes a first electronic expansion valve, the first throttling device including a first coil portion disposed outside the integrated valve island and a first valve core extending at least into the integrated valve island, the first coil portion being disposed above or diagonally above the integrated valve island; and / or The second throttling device includes a second electronic expansion valve, the second throttling device includes a second coil portion disposed outside the integrated valve island and a second valve core extending at least into the integrated valve island, the second coil portion being disposed above or diagonally above the integrated valve island.

15. The thermal management system as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The first throttling device includes a first electronic expansion valve, wherein the projection of the first coil portion of the first throttling device onto the plane of the plate heat exchanger at least partially covers the projection onto the plate heat exchanger; and / or The second throttling device includes a second electronic expansion valve, and the projection of the second coil portion of the second throttling device onto the plane of the plate heat exchanger at least partially covers the projection onto the plate heat exchanger.

16. An air conditioner, characterized in that, Includes the thermal management system as described in any one of claims 1 to 15.

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