Car refrigerator and center console device

Abstract

This application discloses an in-vehicle refrigerator and a center console device. The in-vehicle refrigerator includes a refrigerator body defining a first receiving cavity and a refrigeration component. The refrigeration component includes a refrigerant chamber for containing a refrigerant and a heat exchanger channel. The heat exchanger channel includes a first section and a second section downstream of the first section; the first section is spaced apart from the refrigerant chamber, and the second section is in contact with the refrigerant chamber. After the heat exchanger flows into the heat exchanger channel, it cools the first receiving cavity when it is in the first section and cools the refrigerant when it is in the second section. In this way, the in-vehicle refrigerator does not need to be equipped with separate refrigeration components for cooling the first receiving cavity and cooling the refrigerant, which simplifies the structure of the in-vehicle refrigerator and reduces its cost.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle technology, and in particular to a vehicle-mounted refrigerator. This application also relates to a center console device including such a vehicle-mounted refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] Some vehicles are equipped with onboard refrigerators to meet the occupants' needs for refrigerating items such as cold drinks. Typically, an onboard refrigerator consists of a main body defining the storage cavity, an evaporator, and a fan. The evaporator provides a low-temperature working gas. The fan drives the working gas to circulate between the evaporator and the storage cavity to cool the items inside.

[0003] Some vehicle refrigerators also include a refrigerant. In this case, the vehicle refrigerator typically needs to be equipped with two refrigerants, one for cooling the working gas (or containment chamber) and the other for cooling the evaporator. This results in a more complex structure and higher cost for the vehicle refrigerator. Utility Model Content

[0004] To address the aforementioned technical problems, a first aspect of this application proposes a vehicle-mounted refrigerator. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator includes a refrigerator body defining a first receiving cavity; and a refrigeration component adjacent to the first receiving cavity; the refrigeration component includes a refrigerant chamber for containing refrigerant; and a heat exchanger channel, the heat exchanger channel including a first section and a second section downstream of the first section; the first section is spaced apart from the refrigerant chamber, and at least a portion of the second section contacts the refrigerant chamber; wherein, after the heat exchanger flows into the heat exchanger channel, when it is in the first section, it is suitable for cooling the first receiving cavity, and when it is in the second section, it is suitable for cooling the refrigerant.

[0005] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the second section of the heat exchanger flow channel is located within the cold storage chamber and is in contact with the cold storage.

[0006] In one embodiment, the second section of the heat exchanger flow channel extends in a tortuous manner and includes a first extension outside the cold storage chamber and a second extension inside the cold storage chamber; the heat exchanger is adapted to cool the first containment chamber when it is in the first extension and to cool the cold storage when it is in the second extension.

[0007] In one embodiment, the second section includes a plurality of parallel-extending second pipe segments and a plurality of first fins located between adjacent second pipe segments; the refrigerant contacts the plurality of second pipe segments and the plurality of first fins.

[0008] In one embodiment, the refrigerant chamber includes a heat exchange wall, and the first receiving cavity includes a wall panel corresponding to the heat exchange wall; the heat exchange wall and the wall panel are spaced apart to form a gas channel between the heat exchange wall and the wall panel; the working gas to be flowed into the first receiving cavity is adapted to flow through the gas channel to exchange heat with the heat exchange wall.

[0009] In one embodiment, a plurality of second fins are provided on the surface of the heat exchange wall facing the gas channel, and the working gas flows through the plurality of second fins.

[0010] In one embodiment, the refrigeration assembly includes a first enclosure that contacts at least a portion of the sidewall of a first receiving cavity; the first enclosure includes a first portion and a second portion adjacent to the first portion; a first section of a heat exchanger flow channel is located within the first portion, and at least a portion of a second section of the heat exchanger flow channel is located within the second portion.

[0011] In one embodiment, the refrigerant chamber is located within the second portion and adjacent to the second section of the heat exchanger flow channel.

[0012] In one embodiment, the refrigerant chamber extends in a tortuous manner within the second portion, and the second section of the heat exchanger channel also extends in a tortuous manner within the second portion, with the refrigerant chamber and the second section of the heat exchanger channel surrounding each other.

[0013] In one embodiment, the refrigeration assembly further includes a second enclosure disposed on the side of the first enclosure away from the first receiving cavity; a second receiving cavity is formed between at least a portion of the second enclosure and a second portion of the first enclosure, and a refrigerant chamber is located within the second receiving cavity.

[0014] In one embodiment, a heat exchanger channel extends around a cold storage chamber; wherein a second section of the heat exchanger channel contacts the cold storage chamber; and a first section is located on the side of the second section away from the cold storage chamber, spaced apart from the cold storage chamber.

[0015] In one embodiment, the heat exchanger flow channel includes a plurality of first pipe segments, adjacent first pipe segments are spaced apart, and are connected to a plurality of heat dissipation pipes.

[0016] In one embodiment, the refrigeration assembly further includes a housing that accommodates a heat exchanger channel and a cold storage chamber, with a first section of the heat exchanger channel in contact with the housing.

[0017] In one embodiment, a plurality of third fins are provided on the outer surface of the housing.

[0018] In one embodiment, there are multiple refrigerant chambers; a second section of the heat exchanger flow channel surrounds at least a portion of each refrigerant chamber.

[0019] In one embodiment, at least a portion of a second section of a heat exchanger flow channel is provided between adjacent refrigerant chambers.

[0020] A second aspect of this application provides a center console device. This center console device includes the vehicle refrigerator described above.

[0021] The beneficial effects of this application are as follows: The refrigeration component of the vehicle refrigerator of this application is used not only to cool the first cavity of the vehicle refrigerator, but also to cool the refrigerant. Therefore, the vehicle refrigerator does not need separate refrigeration components for cooling the first cavity and cooling the refrigerant, which simplifies the structure of the vehicle refrigerator and reduces its cost. Attached Figure Description

[0022] With the aid of non-limiting examples of exemplary embodiments of this application, the present application will be further described in a detailed description following with reference to several accompanying drawings. The drawings are not drawn to scale.

[0023] Figure 1 A vehicle according to one embodiment of this application is schematically shown.

[0024] Figure 2 A central control unit according to one embodiment of this application is schematically shown.

[0025] Figure 3 schematically shown Figure 2 A cross-sectional view.

[0026] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a vehicle refrigerator according to a first embodiment of this application is schematically shown.

[0027] Figure 5 A first embodiment of the cooling assembly is shown schematically.

[0028] Figure 6 schematically shown Figure 5 The heat exchanger flow channel in the middle.

[0029] Figure 7 The diagram schematically illustrates the structure of another heat exchanger channel.

[0030] Figure 8 A second embodiment of the cooling assembly is shown schematically.

[0031] Figure 9 A portion of the internal structure of a vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to a second embodiment of this application is schematically shown.

[0032] Figure 10 A third embodiment of the cooling assembly is shown schematically.

[0033] Figure 11 A fourth embodiment of the cooling assembly is schematically shown.

[0034] Figure 12 A portion of the internal structure of a vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to a third embodiment of this application is schematically shown.

[0035] Figure 13 A fifth embodiment of the cooling assembly is schematically shown.

[0036] Figure 14 A sixth embodiment of the cooling assembly is schematically shown.

[0037] List of reference numerals 1 vehicle with 11 front seats 12 Main Dashboard 2. Center console device 3. Car refrigerator 301 First receiving cavity 302 Second receiving cavity 303 Door, 305 Gas Passage 306 Working Gas 31 Refrigerator body 311 base plate 312 top plate 313a First side plate 313b Second side plate 313c Third Side Panel 32 Refrigeration Components 321 Fan 322 Fan Bracket 33 Cold Storage Chamber 331 Heat exchange wall; 332 Second fin 333 Third fin 334 Shell 34 heat exchanger flow channels 341 First section of heat exchanger flow channel 342 Second section of heat exchanger flow channel 342a first extension section 343 heat pipe 345 Second pipe section 346 First fin 347 First Pipe Section 351 First Enclosure Panel 352 Second Enclosure Panel 351a First part of the first enclosure panel; 351b Second part of the first enclosure panel The third part of the first panel of 351c 352a First part of the second enclosure panel; 352b Second part of the second enclosure panel 352c The third part of the second enclosure Z (vertical direction) Detailed Implementation

[0038] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the technical solutions of this application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with specific embodiments and corresponding drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0039] Figure 1 A vehicle 1 according to one embodiment of this application is schematically shown. Figure 1 As shown, vehicle 1 includes two front seats 11 and a center console device 2 located between the two front seats 11.

[0040] Figure 2 A central control unit 2 according to one embodiment of this application is schematically shown. (Refer to...) Figure 2 and Figure 3 The center console device 2 includes a car refrigerator 3. For example, the car refrigerator 3 is located in the front part of the center console device 2 facing the main instrument panel 12 of the vehicle, and the door 303 of the car refrigerator 3 is located on the front side of the center console device 2. In this way, the front passengers of the vehicle can easily open the door 303 to take items into the car refrigerator 3. It should be understood that, depending on the actual situation, the car refrigerator can also be located in other locations in the vehicle (e.g., between the rear seats), and the door can also be located in other locations of the car refrigerator, which will not be elaborated here.

[0041] First embodiment of a vehicle-mounted refrigerator

[0042] like Figure 4 As shown, the vehicle refrigerator 3 of the first embodiment includes a refrigerator body 31 and a refrigeration component 32 disposed adjacent to the refrigerator body 31.

[0043] For example, the refrigerator body 31 is generally rectangular to match the shape of the front of the center console assembly 2. In this case, the refrigerator body 31 includes multiple wall panels (e.g., bottom panel 311, top panel 311, etc.). Figure 4 (not shown in the image), and the first side plate 313a and the second side plate (not shown in the image) connecting the bottom plate 311 and the top plate. Figure 4 (Not shown in the image) and a third side panel 313c. The third side panel 313c is opposite to the door 303, and the first side panel 313a and the second side panel are opposite to each other and connected to the third side panel 313c. These side panels together define a first receiving cavity 301 for receiving articles.

[0044] The cooling component 32 is located outside the first receiving cavity 301 and adjacent to the third side plate 313c.

[0045] Figure 5 and Figure 6 The cooling assembly of the first embodiment is shown schematically. (Refer to...) Figure 5 and Figure 6The refrigeration assembly 32 includes a refrigerant chamber 33 and a heat exchanger channel 34. The refrigerant chamber 33 is used to contain the refrigerant. The heat exchanger flows within the heat exchanger channel 34 and is used to cool the first containment chamber 301 and the refrigerant. The refrigerant and heat exchanger are well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here. The heat exchanger channel 34 includes a first section 341 and a second section 342 communicating with the first section 341 (as described below, with reference to the flow direction of the heat exchanger within the heat exchanger channel 34, the second section 342 is downstream of the first section 341). Furthermore... Figure 5 As shown, the first section 341 is located outside the refrigerant chamber 33 and is separated from the refrigerant, while the second section 342 is located inside the refrigerant chamber 33 and is in contact with the refrigerant.

[0046] When using the vehicle refrigerator 3, the low-temperature heat exchanger flows into the heat exchanger channel 34, first passing through the first section 341, and then through the second section 342. While the heat exchanger is in the first section 341, it cools the working gas 306. The working gas 306 then flows within the first receiving cavity 301 (e.g., Figure 4 As shown, the heat exchanger cools the first receiving cavity 301. In other words, when the heat exchanger is in the first section 341 of the heat exchanger flow channel 34, the first receiving cavity 301 is cooled. However, the heat exchange efficiency between the heat exchanger and the working gas 306 is low (i.e., the working gas 306 cannot fully absorb the cold energy of the heat exchanger), so that the heat exchanger still has a low temperature after heat exchange with the working gas 306. Thus, when the heat exchanger is in the second section 342, it can still cool the cold storage agent, and the heat exchange efficiency between the heat exchanger and the cold storage agent is high (i.e., the cold storage agent can fully absorb the cold energy of the heat exchanger). This improves the utilization rate of the cold energy of the heat exchanger. After the temperature of the cold storage agent drops to a predetermined temperature (which is determined according to the actual situation), the heat exchanger stops flowing, and the cold storage agent releases its cold energy to cool the working gas 306, so that the temperature of the first receiving cavity 301 of the vehicle refrigerator 3 is maintained at a low temperature. Therefore, it can be seen that the refrigeration component 32 of the vehicle refrigerator 3 of this application is used not only to cool the working gas 306, but also to cool the refrigerant. In this way, the vehicle refrigerator 3 does not need to be equipped with two or more refrigeration components to cool the first receiving cavity and the refrigerant separately, which simplifies the structure of the vehicle refrigerator 3 and reduces the cost of the vehicle refrigerator 3.

[0047] In one embodiment, the vehicle refrigerator 3 uses the compressor (not shown) of the vehicle's air conditioning system to cool the heat exchanger and drive it to flow within the heat exchanger channel 34. Therefore, the vehicle refrigerator 3 does not require an additional compressor, which helps simplify its structure and reduce its cost. Typically, air conditioning system compressors have high power and energy consumption. After the compressor starts, the temperature of the refrigerant drops rapidly. Once the refrigerant reaches a predetermined temperature, the compressor stops, and the heat exchanger stops flowing. The refrigerant releases its cooling capacity relatively slowly to keep the working gas 306 (or the first receiving chamber 301) at a low temperature, thus keeping the compressor in a stopped state for a longer period. Therefore, when using the vehicle refrigerator 3, the compressor operates and stops intermittently, with the stop time exceeding the operating time, which helps reduce the compressor's energy consumption. For electric vehicles, the intermittent operation and stop of the compressor is also highly beneficial, as it helps increase the vehicle's driving range.

[0048] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The refrigerant chamber 33 is generally rectangular and adjacent to the third side plate 313c of the first receiving chamber 301. The refrigerant chamber 33 includes a heat exchange wall 331 extending generally in the vertical direction Z, with a first section 341 of the heat exchanger flow channel 34 located above the heat exchange wall 331. The third side plate 313c of the first receiving chamber 301 corresponds to and is spaced apart from the heat exchange wall 331, thus forming a gas passage 305 between the heat exchange wall 331 and the third side plate 313c. Furthermore, a gas hole (not shown in the figure) is formed on the third side plate 313c. The first receiving chamber 301 communicates with the gas passage 305 through the gas hole.

[0049] like Figure 4 As shown, when using the vehicle refrigerator 3, the low-temperature working gas 306 cools the first receiving cavity 301 and then flows into the gas channel 305 through the gas hole. The working gas 306 flows vertically upwards (Z-direction) within the gas channel 305 and exchanges heat with the heat exchange wall 331 (or the refrigerant), causing its temperature to drop again. Next, the low-temperature working gas 306 flows back into the first receiving cavity 301 and continues the flow process described above, continuously cooling the first receiving cavity 301 or maintaining it at a preset temperature. Therefore, the gas channel 305 constrains the flow direction of the working gas 306, resulting in a higher heat exchange rate between the working gas 306 and the refrigerant in the refrigerant chamber 33.

[0050] In one embodiment, as well as Figure 5As shown, the cooling assembly 32 is equipped with a fan 321 for driving the flow of the working gas 306. For example, a fan bracket 322 is provided within the gas passage 305. The fan 321 is mounted on the fan bracket 322 and is located in the upper part of the gas passage 305. In this way, the fan 321 can drive the working gas 306 to enter the first receiving cavity 301 more smoothly.

[0051] In one embodiment, a plurality of second fins 332 are provided on the surface of the heat exchange wall 331 facing the gas channel 305 (e.g., Figure 6 (As shown). Thus, when the working gas 306 flows through the gas channel 305, it comes into contact with these second fins 332. These second fins 332 increase the contact area between the working gas 306 and the heat exchange wall 331, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency between the working gas 306 and the refrigerant. In one embodiment, the extension direction of the second fins is generally parallel to the flow direction of the working gas, which helps reduce the movement resistance of the working gas. In other embodiments, the extension direction of the second fins may differ from the flow direction of the working gas, depending on the actual situation. For example, the second fins extend in a wavy pattern along the vertical direction Z. This type of second fin still introduces less resistance to the working gas, but the effective contact area between the working gas and the second fins is larger, further improving the heat exchange efficiency between the working gas and the refrigerant.

[0052] like Figure 6 As shown, the first section 341 of the heat exchanger channel 34 extends in a tortuous manner, which helps to increase the contact area between the working gas 306 and the first section 341 of the heat exchanger channel 34, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency between the working gas 306 and the heat exchanger in the first section 341. The second section 342 of the heat exchanger channel 34 includes multiple second pipe sections 345, and the second section 342 of the heat exchanger channel 34 is located within the cold storage chamber 33 and is in contact with the cold storage. Thus, the contact area between the cold storage and the second section 342 of the heat exchanger channel 34 is larger, and consequently, the heat exchange efficiency between the cold storage and the heat exchanger in the second section 342 is also higher.

[0053] In another embodiment, such as Figure 7As shown, the heat exchanger channel 34 includes a plurality of second pipe sections 345. For example, these second pipe sections 345 extend generally parallel to each other. Additionally, the heat exchanger channel 34 also includes a plurality of first fins 346 located between adjacent second pipe sections 345. The working gas contacts the second pipe section 341 (first section) and its corresponding first fins, while the refrigerant contacts the second pipe section 342 (second section) and its corresponding first fins. This further increases the contact area between the working gas and the refrigerant and the heat exchanger channel 34, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency between the working gas and the refrigerant and the heat exchanger within the heat exchanger channel 34. Furthermore, these first fins 346 connect these second pipe sections 345 into a single unit, thereby improving the robustness of the heat exchanger channel 34 and helping to prevent damage from impacts.

[0054] These second pipe sections 345, which constitute the second section 342, may be connected in series with each other and in series with the second pipe section 345, which constitutes the first section 341. In other words, the heat exchanger flow path may be formed by a bend in a single pipe. In other embodiments, these second pipe sections of the second section may also be connected in parallel. In this way, the temperature of the heat exchanger in each second pipe section is substantially equal, which also helps to improve the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the heat exchanger in these second pipe sections.

[0055] Figure 8 The refrigeration assembly of the second embodiment is schematically shown, which is applicable to the vehicle refrigerator of the first embodiment. The refrigeration assembly of the third embodiment is generally similar to that of the first embodiment; the main differences between the two will be described below.

[0056] like Figure 8 As shown, in the refrigeration assembly 32 of the third embodiment, the second section 342 of the heat exchanger flow channel 34 extends in a tortuous manner and includes a first extension 342a outside the cold storage chamber 33 and a second extension (not shown) inside the cold storage chamber 33. This makes the structure of the refrigeration assembly 32 more compact, which helps to increase the volume of the first receiving cavity 301 of the vehicle refrigerator 3. Similar to the above description, when the heat exchanger is in the first extension 342a, it is suitable for cooling the first receiving cavity 301; when the heat exchanger is in the second extension, it is suitable for cooling the cold storage.

[0057] Second embodiment of vehicle refrigerator

[0058] Figure 9 A vehicle refrigerator according to a second embodiment is schematically shown. The vehicle refrigerator of the second embodiment is generally similar to that of the first embodiment, with the main difference being the refrigeration component. The refrigeration component used in the vehicle refrigerator of the second embodiment is described below.

[0059] Figure 10A refrigeration assembly according to a second embodiment is schematically shown, which is applicable to the vehicle refrigerator 3 of the second embodiment. (Ref.) Figure 9 and Figure 10 The cooling assembly 32 of the second embodiment includes a first enclosure 351. The first enclosure 351 contacts at least a portion of the sidewall of the first receiving cavity 301. For example, the first enclosure 351 includes a first portion 351a that contacts a first side plate 313a of the first receiving cavity 301 and a second portion 351b that contacts a second side plate 313b of the first receiving cavity 301. Furthermore, the first enclosure 351 may also include a third portion 351c that contacts a top plate 312 of the first receiving cavity 301. The third portion 351c connects between the first portion 351a and the second portion 351b, such that the first enclosure 351 is generally U-shaped.

[0060] The heat exchanger flow channel 34 is constructed on the first enclosure 351. For example, the first section 341 of the heat exchanger flow channel 34 is located on the first portion 351a, and the second section 342 of the heat exchanger flow channel 34 is located on the second portion 351b and the third portion 351c. In addition, the refrigerant chamber 33 is also located on the second portion 351b and the third portion 351c of the first enclosure 351, and is adjacent to the corresponding portion of the second section 342.

[0061] When using the vehicle refrigerator 3, the low-temperature heat exchanger flows into the heat exchanger channel 34, first passing through the first section 341 and then through the second section 342. When the heat exchanger is in the first section 341, because the first portion 351a of the first enclosure 351 is in contact with the first side plate 313a of the first receiving cavity 301, the heat exchanger directly exchanges heat with the first side plate 313a of the first receiving cavity 301, thereby cooling the first receiving cavity 301. After the heat exchanger is in the second section 342 of the heat exchanger channel 34, the heat exchanger can exchange heat with the cold storage agent in the cold storage chamber 33, thereby cooling the cold storage agent. It should be noted that when the heat exchanger in the second section 342 of the heat exchanger flow channel 34 cools the cold storage agent, it also exchanges heat with the top plate 312 and the second side plate 313b of the first receiving cavity 301 (i.e., cools the first receiving cavity 301), which helps to rapidly reduce the temperature inside the first receiving cavity 301.

[0062] After the temperature of the refrigerant drops to a predetermined temperature, the heat exchanger stops flowing (i.e., the compressor shuts down). The refrigerant chamber 33 is in direct contact with the wall of the first receiving chamber 301, so the refrigerant directly cools the first receiving chamber 301. In this way, cooling of the first receiving chamber 301 does not require a fan or working gas, resulting in lower energy consumption for the vehicle refrigerator 3 and producing little to no noise, thus improving the quality of the vehicle refrigerator 3. Of course, depending on the actual situation, the refrigeration components can also be equipped with a fan to drive the gas flow within the first receiving chamber, which helps to quickly and evenly reduce the temperature within the first receiving chamber.

[0063] For example Figure 10 As shown, the refrigerant chamber 33 extends in a tortuous manner on the third portion 351c of the first enclosure 351, and the second section 342 of the heat exchanger channel 34 also extends in a tortuous manner on the third portion 351c of the first enclosure 351, with the refrigerant chamber 33 and the second section 342 of the heat exchanger channel 34 surrounding each other. This increases the contact area between the second section 342 of the heat exchanger channel 34 and the refrigerant chamber 33, thereby helping to rapidly cool the refrigerant. It should be understood that the second section of the heat exchanger channel and the refrigerant chamber also extend in a tortuous manner on the second portion of the first enclosure and surround each other, but are not shown in the figure.

[0064] In addition, from the overall perspective of the first enclosure 351, the first section 341 and the second section 342 of the heat exchanger channel 34 are both tortuous and extended. Therefore, the contact area between the heat exchanger channel 34 and the wall of the first receiving cavity 301 is also large, which also helps the first receiving cavity 301 to cool down quickly.

[0065] Figure 11 A fourth embodiment of the refrigeration assembly is schematically shown, which is also applicable to the vehicle refrigerator of the second embodiment. The refrigeration assembly of the fourth embodiment is generally similar to that of the third embodiment; the main differences between the two are described below. Figure 11As shown, the refrigeration assembly 32 of the fourth embodiment further includes a second enclosure 352. The second enclosure 352 is disposed on the side of the first enclosure 351 away from the first receiving cavity 301. For example, the second enclosure 352 includes a first portion 352a corresponding to a first portion 351a of the first enclosure 351, a second portion 352b corresponding to a second portion 351b of the first enclosure 351, and a third portion 352c corresponding to a third portion 351c of the first enclosure 351. Thus, the second enclosure 352 is also generally U-shaped to facilitate assembly with the first enclosure 351. The third portion 352c of the second enclosure 352 and the third portion 351c of the first enclosure 351 form a second receiving cavity 302. The refrigerant chamber 33 is located within the second receiving cavity 302. In the refrigeration assembly of the fourth embodiment, the volume of the second receiving cavity 302 is large, so a larger amount of refrigerant can be placed within the second receiving cavity 302 to further improve the utilization efficiency of the cooling capacity in the heat exchanger. In addition, because of the large amount of refrigerant, the refrigerant can provide cooling to the first receiving cavity 301 for a longer period of time, which reduces the frequency of compressor start-up due to the temperature rise of the vehicle refrigerator, thereby helping to save energy.

[0066] It should be understood that, in the refrigeration assembly of the fourth embodiment, depending on the actual situation, an additional refrigerant chamber may be provided in the third part 351c of the first enclosure 351 to provide more refrigerant in the vehicle refrigerator.

[0067] Third embodiment of a car refrigerator

[0068] Figure 12 A vehicle refrigerator according to a third embodiment is schematically shown. The vehicle refrigerator of the third embodiment is generally similar to that of the vehicle refrigerator of the first embodiment, with the main difference being the refrigeration component. The refrigeration component used in the vehicle refrigerator of the third embodiment is described below.

[0069] Figure 13 The refrigeration assembly of the fifth embodiment is schematically shown, which is applicable to the vehicle refrigerator 3 of the third embodiment. (As...) Figure 13 As shown, in the refrigeration assembly 32 of the fifth embodiment, the heat exchanger channel 34 extends generally spirally around the refrigerant chamber 33 and has multiple layers of first pipe sections 347 in the radial direction. The refrigerant chamber 33 is surrounded by the heat exchanger channel 34. In the radial direction, the first section 341 of the heat exchanger channel 34 is located outside the second section 342, and the second section 342 is in contact with the refrigerant chamber 33, while the first section 341 is spaced apart from the refrigerant chamber 33.

[0070] When using the refrigeration assembly 32 of the fifth embodiment, the low-temperature heat exchanger flows into the heat exchanger channel 34, first passing through the first section 341 and then through the second section 342. When the heat exchanger is in the first section 341, the working gas 306 contacts the outer layer of the first section 341, thereby cooling the working gas 306. The working gas 306 then flows within the first receiving cavity 301 to cool the first receiving cavity 301. In other words, the heat exchanger cools the first receiving cavity 301 when it is in the first section 341 of the heat exchanger channel 34. When the heat exchanger is in the second section 341, it cools the refrigerant in the refrigerant chamber 33. It should be noted that the working gas 306 can also contact the second section 341, so that the heat exchanger in the second section 341 can also cool the working gas 306.

[0071] After the temperature of the refrigerant drops to a predetermined temperature, the heat exchanger stops flowing (i.e., the compressor shuts down). The working gas 306 comes into contact with the refrigerant chamber 33 through the gap between the first pipe section 347 of the heat exchanger channel 34, thereby cooling the working gas 306 so that the first receiving chamber 301 is maintained at a preset temperature.

[0072] In one embodiment, such as Figure 13 As shown, along the height Z of the refrigerant chamber 33, multiple first pipe sections 347 of the heat exchanger channel 34 are spaced apart from each other, and multiple heat dissipation pipes 343 are connected between adjacent first pipe sections 347. In this way, the heat dissipation pipes 343 increase the contact area between the working gas 306 and the refrigeration component 32, resulting in higher heat exchange efficiency between the working gas 306 and the heat exchanger in the heat exchanger channel 34, and a faster cooling rate for the working gas 306. Similarly, the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant in the refrigerant chamber 33 and the heat exchanger in the heat exchanger channel 34 is also higher, and the refrigerant cools down faster. Depending on the actual situation, heat dissipation pipes can also be connected between adjacent first pipe sections in the radial direction of the heat exchanger channel; this will not be elaborated further here.

[0073] Figure 14 The refrigeration assembly of the sixth embodiment is schematically shown, which is applicable to the vehicle refrigerator of the third embodiment. (As...) Figure 14 As shown, the refrigeration assembly 32 of the sixth embodiment includes a housing 334. A heat exchanger channel 34 and a plurality of refrigerant chambers 33 are disposed within the housing 334. Thus, the housing 334 protects the heat exchanger channel 34 and these refrigerant chambers 33.

[0074] Similar to the refrigeration assembly of the fifth embodiment, in the refrigeration assembly of the sixth embodiment, the heat exchanger channel 34 extends around the refrigerant chambers 33, and the second section 342 of the heat exchanger channel 34 contacts the refrigerant chambers 33, while the first section 341 of the heat exchanger channel 34 is located outside the second section 342 and contacts the housing 334.

[0075] When using the refrigeration assembly 32 of the sixth embodiment, the low-temperature heat exchanger flows into the heat exchanger channel 34, first passing through the first section 341 and then through the second section 342. While the heat exchanger is in the first section 341, it cools the housing 334. The working gas 306 contacts the outer surface of the housing 334 and is cooled. The working gas 306 then flows within the first receiving cavity 301 to cool the first receiving cavity 301. In other words, the heat exchanger cools the first receiving cavity 301 while in the first section 341 of the heat exchanger channel 34. While the heat exchanger is in the second section 341, it cools the refrigerant in the refrigerant storage chamber 33.

[0076] After the temperature of the refrigerant drops to a predetermined temperature, the heat exchanger stops flowing (i.e., the compressor shuts down). The refrigerant cools the housing 334, thereby cooling the working gas 306. This maintains the first receiving cavity 301 at a preset temperature.

[0077] Multiple third fins 333 are provided on the outer surface of the housing 334. These third fins 333 increase the contact area between the working gas 306 and the housing 334, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency between the working gas 306 and the housing 334.

[0078] For example Figure 14 As shown, a second section 342 of the heat exchanger channel 34 surrounds the refrigerant chambers 33. For example, at least a portion of the second section 342 of the heat exchanger channel 34 is provided between adjacent refrigerant chambers 33. This increases the contact area between the refrigerant chambers 33 and the second section 342 of the heat exchanger channel 34, allowing the heat exchanger in the second section 342 to fully exchange heat with the refrigerant. When using the refrigerant to cool the first receiving cavity 301 of the vehicle refrigerator 3, the refrigerant in these refrigerant chambers 33 releases its cooling capacity at a lower rate, thus maintaining the temperature in the first receiving cavity 301 at a lower temperature for a longer period. This helps reduce the frequency of compressor starts, thereby helping to save energy.

[0079] In the first embodiment, fins may also be provided between the first section 341 and the second section 342 of the heat exchanger channel 34, and fins may also be provided between the second section 342 and the corresponding refrigerant chamber 33. These fins help improve the stability of the refrigeration assembly 32 and are also beneficial for cooling the working gas 306 (or the first containment chamber 301) and / or the refrigerant.

[0080] It should be noted that the present invention (e.g., a utility model concept, etc.) has been described in the specification and / or illustrated in the figures of this patent document according to exemplary embodiments; the embodiments of the present invention are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. The structure and / or arrangement of the elements of the utility model concept embodied in the present invention as described in the specification and / or illustrated in the figures are merely illustrative. Although exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail in this patent document, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that equivalents, modifications, variations, etc., of the subject matter of the exemplary and alternative embodiments are possible and are considered to be within the scope of the present invention; all such subject matter (e.g., modifications, variations, embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc.) are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. It should also be noted that various / other modifications, variations, substitutions, equivalents, alterations, omissions, etc., can be made in the configuration and / or arrangement of the exemplary embodiments (e.g., in terms of concept, design, structure, device, form, assembly, construction, means, function, system, process / method, steps, sequence of process / method steps, operation, operating conditions, performance, materials, composition, combination, etc.). All such subject matter (e.g., modifications, variations, embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc.) is intended to be included within the scope of this invention without departing from the scope of the invention. The scope of this invention is not intended to be limited to the subject matter (e.g., details, structure, function, materials, behavior, steps, sequence, system, result, etc.) described in the specification and / or figures of this patent document. Given that the claims of this patent document will be properly interpreted to cover the full scope of the subject matter of this invention (e.g., including any and all such modifications, variations, embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc.), it should be understood that the terminology used in this patent document is for the purpose of providing a description of the subject matter of exemplary embodiments and not as a limitation on the scope of the invention.

[0081] It should also be noted that, according to exemplary embodiments, the present invention may include conventional techniques (e.g., techniques implemented and / or integrated in exemplary embodiments, modifications, variations, combinations, equivalents, etc.), or may include any other applicable techniques (now and / or in the future) with the ability to perform the functions and processes / operations described in the specification and / or illustrated in the figures. All such techniques (e.g., techniques implemented in the manner of embodiments, modifications, variations, combinations, equivalents, etc.) are considered to be within the scope of the present invention in this patent document.

Claims

1. A vehicle-mounted refrigerator, characterized in that, The vehicle-mounted refrigerator includes: The refrigerator body defines the first receiving cavity; and A cooling assembly is located adjacent to the first receiving cavity; the cooling assembly includes: The refrigerant chamber is used to contain the refrigerant; and A heat exchanger flow channel, the heat exchanger flow channel including a first section and a second section downstream of the first section; the first section is spaced apart from the cold storage chamber, and at least a portion of the second section is in contact with the cold storage chamber; When the heat exchanger flows into the heat exchanger channel, it is suitable for cooling the first containment cavity when it is in the first section, and suitable for cooling the cold storage agent when it is in the second section.

2. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the second section of the heat exchanger channel is located within the cold storage chamber and is in contact with the cold storage.

3. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second section of the heat exchanger flow channel extends in a tortuous manner and includes a first extension outside the cold storage chamber and a second extension inside the cold storage chamber; When the heat exchanger is in the first extension section, it is suitable for cooling the first containment cavity; when it is in the second extension section, it is suitable for cooling the cold storage agent.

4. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The second section includes a plurality of parallel-extending second pipe segments and a plurality of first fins located between adjacent second pipe segments; The refrigerant comes into contact with the plurality of second pipe sections and the plurality of first fins.

5. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigerant chamber includes a heat exchange wall, and the first receiving cavity includes a wall panel corresponding to the heat exchange wall; the heat exchange wall and the wall panel are spaced apart to form a gas passage between the heat exchange wall and the wall panel; The working gas to be flowed into the first receiving cavity is adapted to flow through the gas channel to exchange heat with the heat exchange wall.

6. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to claim 5, characterized in that, The heat exchange wall has a plurality of second fins on its surface facing the gas channel, and the working gas flows through the plurality of second fins.

7. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooling assembly includes a first enclosure that contacts at least a portion of the sidewall of the first receiving cavity; The first enclosure includes a first portion and a second portion adjacent to the first portion; a first section of the heat exchanger channel is located within the first portion, and at least a portion of the second section of the heat exchanger channel is located within the second portion.

8. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to claim 7, characterized in that, The refrigerant chamber is located within the second part and is adjacent to the second section of the heat exchanger flow channel.

9. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to claim 8, characterized in that, The refrigerant chamber extends in a tortuous manner within the second part, and the second section of the heat exchanger channel also extends in a tortuous manner within the second part, with the refrigerant chamber and the second section of the heat exchanger channel surrounding each other.

10. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to claim 7, characterized in that, The cooling assembly further includes a second enclosure, which is disposed on the side of the first enclosure away from the first receiving cavity; A second receiving cavity is formed between the second enclosure and at least a portion of the second portion of the first enclosure, and the refrigerant chamber is located within the second receiving cavity.

11. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat exchanger channel extends around the cold storage chamber; The second section of the heat exchanger flow channel is in contact with the cold storage chamber; the first section is located on the side of the second section away from the cold storage chamber, so as to be spaced apart from the cold storage chamber.

12. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to claim 11, characterized in that, The heat exchanger flow channel includes multiple first pipe sections, adjacent first pipe sections are spaced apart, and multiple heat dissipation pipes are connected to them.

13. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to claim 11, characterized in that, The refrigeration assembly further includes a housing that accommodates the heat exchanger channel and the cold storage chamber, with a first section of the heat exchanger channel in contact with the housing.

14. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to claim 13, characterized in that, Multiple third fins are provided on the outer surface of the shell.

15. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to claim 13, characterized in that, The number of the refrigerant chambers is multiple; the second section of the heat exchanger flow channel surrounds at least a portion of each of the refrigerant chambers.

16. The vehicle-mounted refrigerator according to claim 15, characterized in that, At least a portion of a second section of the heat exchanger flow channel is provided between adjacent cold storage chambers.

17. A central control console device, characterized in that, The center console device includes a vehicle refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

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