Heat exchanger and air conditioner

Abstract

The utility model relates to air conditioning technical field especially relates to a heat exchanger, include: first collecting flow pipe, include: a plurality of first branch line, second collecting flow pipe, include: a plurality of second branch line, heat exchange pipeline, heat exchange pipeline is suitable for switching between evaporative mode and condensing mode, in evaporative mode, the coolant flows out heat exchange pipeline through the first number of first branch line, the coolant flows into heat exchange pipeline through the second number of second branch line, in condensing mode, the coolant flows out heat exchange pipeline through the third number of first branch line, the coolant flows into heat exchange pipeline through the fourth number of second branch line, the first number is greater than the third number, and the second number is greater than the fourth number. The utility model discloses heat exchanger shunt adopts the shunt mode of variable, and the flow path of coolant in heat exchanger is redistributed when refrigeration and heating, and the flow path of coolant is less when refrigeration mode, and the flow path of coolant is more when heating mode, and the heating efficiency of air conditioner is improved significantly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and in particular to a heat exchanger and an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] When an air conditioner is in heating mode, the outdoor unit may experience frosting. During the reverse-cycle defrosting process, the indoor heat exchanger, acting as the evaporator, may drop below 0°C. This means that even after defrosting, when the air conditioner returns to heating mode, the indoor heat exchanger's temperature remains low. The air conditioner needs to raise the indoor heat exchanger's temperature to a higher level to ensure a comfortable airflow temperature before turning on the indoor fan. This process results in the indoor unit taking a longer time to start blowing air, and the initial airflow temperature remains low, leading to a poor user experience. Utility Model Content

[0003] This invention provides a heat exchanger and air conditioner to address one of the shortcomings of existing technologies. The heat exchanger for the outdoor unit of this air conditioner employs a variable flow distribution mode, controlling the number of flow paths in the first and second manifolds accordingly. This redistributes the refrigerant flow paths within the heat exchanger during cooling and heating modes. In cooling mode, fewer refrigerant flow paths are traversed, while in heating mode, more flow paths are traversed, significantly improving the heating efficiency of the air conditioner and reducing pressure loss and the risk of frosting on the outdoor unit. When the heat exchanger operates in condensation mode, the second manifold increases the flow paths within the heat exchanger, resulting in a more dispersed and uniform distribution of flow paths, leading to more even frosting.

[0004] This utility model provides a heat exchanger, comprising: The first manifold includes: Multiple first branch pipelines; The second manifold includes: Multiple second branch pipelines; The heat exchange pipeline is adapted to switch between evaporation mode and condensation mode. In evaporation mode, refrigerant flows out of the heat exchange pipeline through a first number of first branch pipelines and flows into the heat exchange pipeline through a second number of second branch pipelines. In condensation mode, refrigerant flows out of the heat exchange pipeline through a third number of first branch pipelines and flows into the heat exchange pipeline through a fourth number of second branch pipelines. The first number of pipelines is greater than the third number, and the second number of pipelines is greater than the fourth number.

[0005] According to this utility model, a heat exchanger is provided, wherein multiple first branch pipes are divided into at least one first-type branch pipe, at least one second-type branch pipe, and at least one third-type branch pipe, and the first manifold further includes: The first main pipeline is connected to the first type of branch pipeline; The second main pipeline is connected to both the second type of branch pipeline and the third type of branch pipeline; A first one-way valve is adapted to connect the first main pipeline and the second main pipeline in the evaporation mode, allowing refrigerant to flow out of the heat exchange pipeline through all the first branch pipelines, and to disconnect the first main pipeline and the second main pipeline in the condensation mode, allowing refrigerant to flow into the heat exchange pipeline through the first type of branch pipelines.

[0006] According to this utility model, a heat exchanger is provided, wherein multiple second branch pipes are divided into at least one fourth type branch pipe, at least one fifth type branch pipe, and at least one sixth type branch pipe, and the second manifold further includes: The third main pipeline is connected to both the fourth and fifth type branch pipelines; The fourth main pipeline is connected to the sixth branch pipeline; A second one-way valve is adapted to connect the third main pipeline and the fourth main pipeline in the evaporation mode, allowing refrigerant to flow into the heat exchange pipeline through all the second branch pipelines; and to disconnect the third main pipeline and the fourth main pipeline in the condensation mode, allowing refrigerant to flow out of the heat exchange pipeline through the sixth branch pipeline.

[0007] According to the present invention, a heat exchanger is provided, wherein the heat exchange pipeline includes: The first group of heat exchange tubes, and the first type of branch pipes are connected one-to-one with the fourth type of branch pipes through the first group of heat exchange tubes; The second set of heat exchange tubes, and the second type of branch pipes are connected one-to-one with the fifth type of branch pipes through the second set of heat exchange tubes; The third set of heat exchange tubes, and the third type of branch pipes are connected one-to-one with the sixth type of branch pipes through the third set of heat exchange tubes.

[0008] According to this utility model, a heat exchanger is provided in which, in the condensation mode, the first main pipe, the first type of branch pipe, the first group of heat exchange tubes, the fourth type of branch pipe, the third main pipe, the fifth type of branch pipe, the second group of heat exchange tubes, the second type of branch pipe, the second main pipe, the third type of branch pipe, the third group of heat exchange tubes, the sixth type of branch pipe, and the fourth main pipe are connected sequentially along the refrigerant flow direction.

[0009] According to the present invention, a heat exchanger is provided, wherein the fourth main pipeline is provided with an electronic expansion valve, and the valve core diameter of the electronic expansion valve is between 2 mm and 2.8 mm.

[0010] According to the present invention, a heat exchanger is provided, wherein the first main pipeline and the second main pipeline are both arranged vertically and connected from top to bottom through the first check valve, and each of the first branch pipelines is arranged parallel to each other from top to bottom.

[0011] According to the present invention, a heat exchanger is provided, wherein the third main pipeline and the fourth main pipeline are both arranged vertically and connected from top to bottom through the second one-way valve. The top of the third main pipeline is a closed end and the inside is a cavity. The closed end is provided with a connecting hole communicating with the cavity. The fourth type branch pipeline and the fifth type branch pipeline are both connected to the connecting hole.

[0012] According to the present invention, a heat exchanger is provided in which the fourth type of branch pipe, the fifth type of branch pipe and the sixth type of branch pipe are all bends, and the highest position of the fifth type of branch pipe is lower than the highest position of the fourth type of branch pipe and higher than the highest position of the sixth type of branch pipe.

[0013] This utility model also provides an air conditioner, including the heat exchanger described above.

[0014] The heat exchanger of this embodiment mainly consists of a first manifold, a second manifold, and heat exchange pipelines. The first manifold is composed of multiple first branch pipelines, and the second manifold is composed of multiple second branch pipelines. The heat exchange pipelines are respectively provided with first ports and second ports. The first ports are used to connect one-to-one with the first branch pipelines, and the second ports are used to connect one-to-one with the second branch pipelines. The first manifold is used for the flow of gaseous refrigerant, and the second manifold is used for the flow of liquid refrigerant.

[0015] This utility model discloses a heat exchanger used as a heat exchange device in the outdoor unit. During air conditioning heating, it functions as an evaporator to heat the refrigerant, which is then transported to the condenser of the indoor unit for heat exchange. In the condenser, the refrigerant exchanges heat with the air, cools down, and condenses into a liquid. It then flows out of the condenser and into the heat exchanger through a second liquid collector. In the evaporator, it exchanges heat again, heats up, and forms a gas, which then flows out through a first manifold back to the condenser, thus forming a heating cycle. During air conditioning cooling, it functions as a condenser to cool the refrigerant, which is then transported to the evaporator of the indoor unit for heat exchange. In the evaporator, the refrigerant exchanges heat with the air, heats up, evaporates into a gas, and flows out of the evaporator. It then flows into the heat exchanger through a first liquid collector. In the condenser, it exchanges heat again, heats up, and forms a liquid, which then flows out through a second manifold back to the evaporator, thus forming a cooling cycle.

[0016] When the heat exchanger operates in evaporation mode, liquid refrigerant flows into the heat exchange pipeline through the second branch of the second-numbered pipe, absorbs heat and evaporates into gaseous refrigerant in the heat exchange pipeline, and then flows out of the heat exchange pipeline through the first branch of the first-numbered pipe. When the heat exchanger operates in condensation mode, gaseous refrigerant flows into the heat exchange pipeline through the first branch of the third-numbered pipe, releases heat and condenses into liquid refrigerant in the heat exchange pipeline, and then flows out of the heat exchange pipeline through the second branch of the fourth-numbered pipe. The design ensures that the first number of pipes is greater than the third number, and the second number is greater than the fourth number. That is, the first and second manifolds have more flow paths involved in refrigerant transport when the heat exchanger is operating in evaporation mode than when it is operating in condensation mode.

[0017] Compared to conventional air conditioners that use a fixed flow distribution mode, where the refrigerant flows through a fixed path during cooling and heating, and the cooling and heating functions are achieved simply by switching the direction of refrigerant flow, this invention's outdoor unit heat exchanger employs a variable flow distribution mode. It controls the number of flow paths in the first and second manifolds accordingly, redistributing the refrigerant flow paths within the heat exchanger during cooling and heating. In cooling mode, the refrigerant flows through fewer paths, while in heating mode, it flows through more paths, significantly improving the air conditioner's heating efficiency and reducing pressure loss and the risk of frosting on the outdoor unit. When the heat exchanger operates in condensation mode, the second manifold increases the flow paths within the heat exchanger, resulting in a more dispersed and even distribution of flow paths, leading to more uniform frosting. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in 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 some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the heat exchanger provided in this embodiment of the utility model; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first manifold of the heat exchanger provided in this embodiment of the utility model; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second manifold of the heat exchanger provided in this embodiment of the utility model; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange pipeline of the heat exchanger provided in this embodiment of the utility model.

[0020] Figure label: 100. First manifold; 110. First branch pipe; 111. First type branch pipe; 112. Second type branch pipe; 113. Third type branch pipe; 120. First main pipe; 130. Second main pipe; 140. First check valve; 200. Second manifold; 210. Second branch pipe; 211. Fourth branch pipe; 212. Fifth branch pipe; 213. Sixth branch pipe; 220. Third main pipe; 230. Fourth main pipe; 240. Second check valve; 250. Electronic expansion valve; 300, Heat exchange pipe; 310, First group of heat exchange pipes; 320, Second group of heat exchange pipes; 330, Third group of heat exchange pipes; 351, First port one; 352, First port two; 353, First port three; 361, Second port one; 362, Second port two; 363, Second port three. Detailed Implementation

[0021] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0022] In the description of the embodiments of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship, are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this utility model. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0023] In the description of the embodiments of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0024] In this embodiment of the utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0025] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0026] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown in the figure, a heat exchanger provided by this utility model embodiment includes a first manifold 100, a second manifold 200, and a heat exchange pipeline 300. The first manifold 100 includes multiple first branch pipelines 110; the second manifold 200 includes multiple second branch pipelines 210; the heat exchange pipeline 300 is adapted to switch between evaporation mode and condensation mode. In evaporation mode, refrigerant flows out of the heat exchange pipeline 300 through the first branch pipelines 110 and flows into the heat exchange pipeline 300 through the second branch pipelines 210. In condensation mode, refrigerant flows out of the heat exchange pipeline 300 through the third branch pipelines 110 and flows into the heat exchange pipeline 300 through the fourth branch pipelines 210. The number of first branch pipelines is greater than the number of third branch pipelines, and the number of second branch pipelines is greater than the number of fourth branch pipelines.

[0027] The heat exchanger of this embodiment mainly consists of a first manifold 100, a second manifold 200, and a heat exchange pipeline 300. The first manifold 100 is composed of multiple first branch pipelines 110, and the second manifold 200 is composed of multiple second branch pipelines 210. The heat exchange pipeline 300 is provided with corresponding first ports and second ports. The first ports are used to connect one-to-one with the first branch pipelines 110, and the second ports are used to connect one-to-one with the second branch pipelines 210. The first manifold 100 is used for the flow of gaseous refrigerant, and the second manifold 200 is used for the flow of liquid refrigerant.

[0028] This utility model discloses a heat exchanger used as a heat exchange device in the outdoor unit. During heating, it functions as an evaporator to heat the refrigerant, which is then transported to the condenser of the indoor unit for heat exchange. In the condenser, the refrigerant exchanges heat with the air, cools down, and condenses into a liquid. It then flows out of the condenser and into the heat exchanger through a second liquid collector. In the evaporator, it exchanges heat again, heats up, and forms a gas, which then flows out through the first manifold 100 back to the condenser, thus forming a heating cycle. During cooling, it functions as a condenser to cool the refrigerant, which is then transported to the evaporator of the indoor unit for heat exchange. In the evaporator, the refrigerant exchanges heat with the air, heats up, evaporates into a gas, and flows out of the evaporator. It then flows into the heat exchanger through the first liquid collector. In the condenser, it exchanges heat again, cools down, and forms a liquid, which then flows out through the second manifold 200 back to the evaporator, thus forming a cooling cycle.

[0029] When the heat exchanger operates in evaporation mode, liquid refrigerant flows into heat exchange pipe 300 through the second branch pipe 210 of the second number, absorbs heat and evaporates into gaseous refrigerant in heat exchange pipe 300, and flows out of heat exchange pipe 300 through the first branch pipe 110 of the first number. When the heat exchanger operates in condensation mode, gaseous refrigerant flows into heat exchange pipe 300 through the first branch pipe 110 of the third number, releases heat and condenses into liquid refrigerant in heat exchange pipe 300, and flows out of heat exchange pipe 300 through the second branch pipe 210 of the fourth number. The design ensures that the number of the first and third branches is greater than the number of the fourth branch pipe, meaning that the first manifold 100 and the second manifold 200 have more flow paths involved in refrigerant transport when the heat exchanger is operating in evaporation mode than when it is operating in condensation mode.

[0030] Compared to ordinary air conditioners that use a fixed flow distribution mode, where the refrigerant flows through a fixed path during cooling and heating, and the cooling and heating functions are achieved simply by switching the direction of refrigerant flow, this utility model's air conditioner outdoor unit heat exchanger uses a variable flow distribution mode. It controls the number of flow paths in the first manifold 100 and the second manifold 200 accordingly, redistributing the refrigerant flow paths within the heat exchanger during cooling and heating. In cooling mode, the refrigerant flows through fewer paths, while in heating mode, it flows through more paths, significantly improving the air conditioner's heating efficiency and reducing pressure loss and the risk of frosting on the outdoor unit. When the heat exchanger operates in condensation mode, the second manifold 200 increases the flow paths within the heat exchanger, resulting in a more dispersed and even distribution of flow paths, leading to more uniform frosting.

[0031] By installing one-way valves in the branch pipes within the heat exchanger, the refrigerant flow path within the heat exchanger is redistributed during cooling and heating. During cooling, the refrigerant flows through fewer and longer paths; during heating, it flows through more and shorter paths, significantly improving the air conditioner's heating efficiency and reducing pressure loss and frosting risks. Simultaneously, the increased refrigerant flow path and more uniform refrigerant distribution during heating result in higher refrigerant flow efficiency within the heat exchanger, leading to more uniform overall temperature and more even frosting. This results in cleaner defrosting each time, relatively shortening defrosting time and making defrosting easier. It also eliminates the problem of severely frosted areas that are difficult to remove, and solves the technical issue of requiring a longer airflow time during heating recovery.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the present invention, multiple first branch pipes 110 are divided into at least one first-type branch pipe 111, at least one second-type branch pipe 112, and at least one third-type branch pipe 113. The first manifold 100 also includes a first main pipe 120, a second main pipe 130, and a first one-way valve 140. The first main pipe 120 is connected to the first-type branch pipe 111; the second main pipe 130 is connected to both the second-type branch pipe 112 and the third-type branch pipe 113; the first one-way valve 140 is adapted to connect the first main pipe 120 and the second main pipe 130 in evaporation mode, and the refrigerant flows out of the heat exchange pipe 300 through all the first branch pipes 110; in condensation mode, the first main pipe 120 and the second main pipe 130 are disconnected, and the refrigerant flows into the heat exchange pipe 300 through the first-type branch pipe 111.

[0033] In this embodiment, the first branch pipe 110 of the first manifold 100 is divided into three types: the first type branch pipe 111, the second type branch pipe 112, and the third type branch pipe 113. The main pipe of the first manifold 100 is formed by connecting the first main pipe 120, the first one-way valve 140, and the second main pipe 130 in sequence. The first type branch pipe 111 serves as a branch pipe of the first main pipe 120, and the second type branch pipe 112 and the third type branch pipe 113 serve as branch pipes of the second main pipe 130.

[0034] The first one-way valve 140 enables one-way flow control of the refrigerant, meaning that the refrigerant in the first one-way valve 140 can only flow from the second main pipe 130 to the first main pipe 120. Therefore, when the heat exchanger is operating in evaporation mode, the gaseous refrigerant in the heat exchange pipe 300 can flow into the first main pipe 120 through the first branch pipe 111, and then into the indoor unit from the first main pipe 120. Alternatively, it can flow into the second main pipe 130 through the second branch pipe 112 and the third branch pipe 113, and then through the first one-way valve 140 before flowing into the first main pipe 120, and then into the indoor unit from the first main pipe 120. When the heat exchanger is operating in condensing mode, the gaseous refrigerant of the indoor unit can flow into the first type of branch pipe 111 through the first main pipe 120, and then into the evaporator through the first type of branch pipe 111. However, it cannot flow from the first main pipe 120 to the second main pipe 130 through the one-way valve, nor can it flow from the second main pipe 130 to the second type of branch pipe 112 and the third type of branch pipe 113.

[0035] The control of the first one-way valve 140 can effectively regulate the flow path of the first manifold 100 during the cooling and heating process and control the number of flow paths in the first branch pipe 110. It has a simple structure, is easy to operate, has a high degree of automation control, and good accuracy.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the present invention, multiple second branch pipes 210 are divided into at least one fourth-class branch pipe 211, at least one fifth-class branch pipe 212, and at least one sixth-class branch pipe 213. The second manifold 200 also includes a third main pipe 220, a fourth main pipe 230, and a second one-way valve 240. The third main pipe 220 is connected to both the fourth-class branch pipe 211 and the fifth-class branch pipe 212; the fourth main pipe 230 is connected to the sixth-class branch pipe 213; the second one-way valve 240 is adapted to connect the third main pipe 220 and the fourth main pipe 230 in evaporation mode, so that the refrigerant flows into the heat exchange pipe 300 through all the second branch pipes 210; and to disconnect the third main pipe 220 and the fourth main pipe 230 in condensation mode, so that the refrigerant flows out of the heat exchange pipe 300 through the sixth-class branch pipe 213.

[0037] In this embodiment, the second branch pipe 210 of the second manifold 200 is divided into three categories: the fourth branch pipe 211, the fifth branch pipe 212, and the sixth branch pipe 213. The main pipe of the second manifold 200 is composed of the third main pipe 220, the second check valve 240, and the fourth main pipe 230 connected in sequence. The fourth branch pipe 211 and the fifth branch pipe 212 serve as branches of the third main pipe 220, and the sixth branch pipe 213 serves as a branch of the fourth main pipe 230.

[0038] The second one-way valve 240 enables one-way flow control of the refrigerant, meaning that the refrigerant can only flow from the fourth main pipe 230 to the third main pipe 220 through the second one-way valve 240. Therefore, when the heat exchanger is operating in evaporation mode, the liquid refrigerant in the indoor unit can flow through the fourth main pipe 230 into the sixth branch pipe 213, and then into the heat exchange pipe 300 from the sixth branch pipe 213. Alternatively, it can flow from the fourth main pipe 230 through the second one-way valve 240 into the third main pipe 220, and then through the fourth branch pipe 211 and the fifth branch pipe 212 into the heat exchange pipe 300. When the heat exchanger is operating in condensing mode, the liquid refrigerant in the heat exchanger can flow into the fourth main pipeline 230 through the sixth branch pipeline 213, and then into the indoor unit through the fourth main pipeline 230. However, it cannot flow from the fourth main pipeline 230 to the third main pipeline 220 through the second one-way valve 240, nor can it flow from the third main pipeline 220 to the fifth branch pipeline 212 and the sixth branch pipeline 213.

[0039] The control of the second one-way valve 240 can effectively regulate the flow path of the second manifold 200 during the cooling and heating process and control the number of flow paths in the second branch pipe 210. It has a simple structure, is easy to operate, has a high degree of automation control, and good accuracy.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the heat exchange pipeline 300 includes a first group of heat exchange pipes 310, a second group of heat exchange pipes 320 and a third group of heat exchange pipes 330. The first type of branch pipeline 111 is connected to the fourth type of branch pipeline 211 through the first group of heat exchange pipes 310; the second type of branch pipeline 112 is connected to the fifth type of branch pipeline 212 through the second group of heat exchange pipes 320; and the third type of branch pipeline 113 is connected to the sixth type of branch pipeline 213 through the third group of heat exchange pipes 330.

[0041] In this embodiment, the heat exchange pipeline 300 is also divided into multiple groups of heat exchange pipes. The first branch pipeline 110 and the second branch pipeline 210 are connected one-to-one. That is, the heat exchange pipeline 300 is a coiled pipe arrangement. Each group of heat exchange pipes can be bent to form two rows of parallel and opposite bends. One end of the bend is the first port and the other end is the second port.

[0042] One end of the first type of branch pipe 111 is connected to the first main pipe 120, and the other end is connected to the first port 351 of the first group of heat exchange tubes 310. One end of the fourth type of branch pipe 211 is connected to the third main pipe 220, and the other end is connected to the second port 361 of the first group of heat exchange tubes 310. One end of the second type of branch pipe 112 is connected to the second main pipe 130, and the other end is connected to the first port 352 of the second group of heat exchange tubes 320. One end of the fifth type of branch pipe 212 is connected to the third main pipe 220, and the other end is connected to the second port 362 of the second group of heat exchange tubes 320. One end of the third type of branch pipe 113 is connected to the second main pipe 130, and the other end is connected to the first port 353 of the third group of heat exchange tubes 330. One end of the sixth type of branch pipe 213 is connected to the fourth main pipe 230, and the other end is connected to the second port 363 of the third group of heat exchange tubes 330.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the present invention, in condensation mode, the first main pipe 120, the first type of branch pipe 111, the first group of heat exchange pipes 310, the fourth type of branch pipe 211, the third main pipe 220, the fifth type of branch pipe 212, the second group of heat exchange pipes 320, the second type of branch pipe 112, the second main pipe 130, the third type of branch pipe 113, the third group of heat exchange pipes 330, the sixth type of branch pipe 213, and the fourth main pipe 230 are connected sequentially along the refrigerant flow direction.

[0044] In this embodiment, due to the restriction of the first one-way valve 140 and the second one-way valve 240, when the heat exchanger is operating in condensation mode, the gaseous refrigerant flows out of the indoor unit and enters the first main pipe 120. Restricted by the first one-way valve 140, the refrigerant cannot enter the second main pipe 130 from the first main pipe 120. Therefore, it enters the first group of heat exchange tubes 310 through the first type of branch pipe 111 for condensation, and flows out of the first group of heat exchange tubes 310 through the fourth type of branch pipe 211 and flows into the third main pipe 220. Restricted by the second one-way valve 240, the refrigerant cannot enter the second main pipe 130 from the third main pipe 220. Pipe 220 flows to the fourth main pipe 230, so it flows into the second group of heat exchange tubes 320 through the fifth branch pipe 212 to continue condensation. After flowing out of the second group of heat exchange tubes 320 through the second branch pipe 112, it flows into the second main pipe 130. At this time, the liquid refrigerant in the refrigerant cannot enter the first main pipe 120 through the first one-way valve 140 due to gravity. So it flows into the third group of heat exchange tubes 330 through the third branch pipe 113 in the second main pipe 130, continues to condense, and then flows out through the sixth branch pipe 213 to the fourth main pipe 230 before flowing out.

[0045] The refrigerant flow path formed in this way can utilize all the main and branch pipes of the first manifold 100 and the second manifold 200, forming the longest refrigerant flow path. This extends the flow path and time of the refrigerant in the heat exchanger, improving the condensation effect of the refrigerant in the heat exchanger. Moreover, during the defrosting process, this flow path involves all locations of the heat exchange pipes 300, making defrosting more uniform and thorough, and also improving defrosting efficiency.

[0046] By installing one-way valves in the first manifold 100 and the second manifold 200 of the heat exchanger, the refrigerant flow path within the heat exchanger is redistributed during cooling and heating. During cooling, the refrigerant flows through fewer and longer paths; during heating, the refrigerant flows through more and shorter paths, significantly improving the air conditioner's heating efficiency and reducing pressure loss and frosting risks. Simultaneously, the increased refrigerant flow path and more uniform refrigerant distribution during heating result in higher refrigerant flow efficiency within the heat exchanger, more uniform overall temperature, and more even frosting. Each defrosting cycle is cleaner, shortening defrosting time and making defrosting easier. This eliminates the problem of severely frosted areas that are difficult to remove, and solves the technical issue of requiring a longer airflow time during heating recovery.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fourth main pipeline 230 is provided with an electronic expansion valve 250, the valve core diameter of the electronic expansion valve 250 being between 2mm and 2.8mm.

[0048] In this embodiment, one end of the fourth main pipeline 230 is connected to the second check valve 240, and the other end can be equipped with an electronic expansion valve 250. The sixth type of branch pipeline 213 is connected to the fourth main pipeline 230 between the second check valve 240 and the electronic expansion valve 250.

[0049] Compared to ordinary air conditioner electronic expansion valve modules, which have a valve core diameter of approximately φ1.3mm and require a capillary tube upstream for pressure reduction to achieve better heating performance, this invention uses an electronic expansion valve 250 with a valve core diameter of φ2~2.8mm, specifically 2.2mm. This enlarged valve core diameter design replaces the original capillary tube for pressure reduction and throttling, significantly improving the refrigerant flow rate during heating. This effectively increases system operating pressure and enhances the fluidity of high-temperature refrigerant, greatly improving defrosting performance and shortening defrosting time.

[0050] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first main pipeline 120 and the second main pipeline 130 are both arranged vertically and connected from top to bottom through the first one-way valve 140, and each first branch pipeline 110 is arranged parallel to each other from top to bottom.

[0051] In this embodiment, the first manifold 100 is vertically arranged, the first main pipeline 120, the first one-way valve 140 and the second main pipeline 130 are connected from top to bottom, the first type of branch pipeline 111, the second type of branch pipeline 112 and the third type of branch pipeline 113 are all straight pipes and are arranged from top to bottom in a horizontally extending state, and the third type of branch pipeline 113 is connected to the end of the second main pipeline 130.

[0052] In this embodiment, there are three first-type branch pipes 111, two second-type branch pipes 112, and one third-type branch pipe 113.

[0053] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the third main pipeline 220 and the fourth main pipeline 230 are both arranged vertically and connected from top to bottom through the second one-way valve 240. The top of the third main pipeline 220 is a closed end and the inside is a cavity. The closed end is provided with a connecting hole that communicates with the cavity. The fourth type branch pipeline 211 and the fifth type branch pipeline 212 are both connected to the connecting hole.

[0054] In this embodiment, the second manifold 200 is vertically oriented, and the third main pipe 220, the second check valve 240, and the fourth main pipe 230 are connected sequentially from top to bottom. The third main pipe 220 has a conical structure with an internal cavity. The top surface is closed and has multiple connecting holes. The fourth type branch pipe 211 and the fifth type branch pipe 212 are connected to the connecting holes one by one, and the bottom surface is connected to the second check valve 240.

[0055] In this embodiment, there are three fourth-class branch pipes 211, two fifth-class branch pipes 212, and one sixth-class branch pipe 213.

[0056] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fourth type branch pipe 211, the fifth type branch pipe 212 and the sixth type branch pipe 213 are all bends, and the highest position of the fifth type branch pipe 212 is lower than the highest position of the fourth type branch pipe 211 and higher than the highest position of the sixth type branch pipe 213.

[0057] In this embodiment, the fourth type of branch pipe 211, the fifth type of branch pipe 212, and the sixth type of branch pipe 213 are all bent pipe structures. The highest position formed by the bends, from top to bottom, is the fourth type of branch pipe 211, the fifth type of branch pipe 212, and the sixth type of branch pipe 213, to ensure that when the heat exchanger is operating in condensing mode, the cold coal in the fourth type of branch pipe 211 flows into the third main pipe 220 and then flows into the second group of heat exchange tubes 320 through the fifth type of branch pipe 212, without flowing back to the fourth type of branch pipe 211.

[0058] The air conditioner provided by the present invention will be described below. The air conditioner described below can be referred to in correspondence with the heat exchanger described above. This utility model also provides an air conditioner, including a heat exchanger as described in the above embodiments.

[0059] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this utility model, and not to limit it. Although this utility model has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model.

Claims

1. A heat exchanger, characterized in that, include: The first manifold (100) includes: Multiple first branch pipelines (110); The second manifold (200) includes: Multiple second branch pipelines (210); A heat exchange pipeline (300) is adapted to switch between an evaporation mode and a condensation mode. In the evaporation mode, refrigerant flows out of the heat exchange pipeline (300) through a first number of first branch pipelines (110) and flows into the heat exchange pipeline (300) through a second number of second branch pipelines (210). In the condensation mode, refrigerant flows out of the heat exchange pipeline (300) through a third number of first branch pipelines (110) and flows into the heat exchange pipeline (300) through a fourth number of second branch pipelines (210). The first number of pipelines is greater than the third number of pipelines, and the second number of pipelines is greater than the fourth number of pipelines.

2. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multiple first branch pipes (110) are divided into at least one first-class branch pipe (111), at least one second-class branch pipe (112), and at least one third-class branch pipe (113). The first manifold (100) also includes: The first main pipeline (120) is connected to the first type of branch pipeline (111); The second main pipeline (130) is connected to both the second type branch pipeline (112) and the third type branch pipeline (113); A first one-way valve (140) is adapted to connect the first main pipeline (120) and the second main pipeline (130) in the evaporation mode, and the refrigerant flows out of the heat exchange pipeline (300) through all the first branch pipelines (110). In the condensation mode, the first main pipeline (120) and the second main pipeline (130) are disconnected, and the refrigerant flows into the heat exchange pipeline (300) through the first branch pipelines (111).

3. The heat exchanger of claim 2, wherein The multiple second branch pipes (210) are divided into at least one fourth-class branch pipe (211), at least one fifth-class branch pipe (212), and at least one sixth-class branch pipe (213), and the second manifold (200) also includes: The third main pipeline (220) is connected to both the fourth type branch pipeline (211) and the fifth type branch pipeline (212); The fourth main pipeline (230) is connected to the sixth type of branch pipeline (213); The second one-way valve (240) is adapted to connect the third main pipeline (220) and the fourth main pipeline (230) in the evaporation mode, so that refrigerant flows into the heat exchange pipeline (300) through all the second branch pipelines (210), and disconnects the third main pipeline (220) and the fourth main pipeline (230) in the condensation mode, so that refrigerant flows out of the heat exchange pipeline (300) through the sixth branch pipeline (213).

4. The heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that, The heat exchange pipeline (300) includes: The first group of heat exchange tubes (310) and the first type of branch pipe (111) are connected one-to-one with the fourth type of branch pipe (211) through the first group of heat exchange tubes (310); The second set of heat exchange tubes (320) and the second type of branch pipe (112) are connected one-to-one with the fifth type of branch pipe (212) through the second set of heat exchange tubes (320); The third group of heat exchange tubes (330) and the third type of branch pipe (113) are connected one-to-one with the sixth type of branch pipe (213) through the third group of heat exchange tubes (330).

5. The heat exchanger of claim 4, wherein In the condensation mode, the first main pipe (120), the first type of branch pipe (111), the first group of heat exchange pipes (310), the fourth type of branch pipe (211), the third main pipe (220), the fifth type of branch pipe (212), the second group of heat exchange pipes (320), the second type of branch pipe (112), the second main pipe (130), the third type of branch pipe (113), the third group of heat exchange pipes (330), the sixth type of branch pipe (213), and the fourth main pipe (230) are connected sequentially along the refrigerant flow direction.

6. The heat exchanger of claim 3, wherein The fourth main pipeline (230) is equipped with an electronic expansion valve (250), the valve core diameter of which is between 2mm and 2.8mm.

7. The heat exchanger according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first main pipeline (120) and the second main pipeline (130) are both arranged vertically and connected from top to bottom through the first check valve (140). Each of the first branch pipelines (110) is arranged parallel to each other from top to bottom.

8. The heat exchanger of claim 3, wherein The third main pipeline (220) and the fourth main pipeline (230) are both arranged vertically and connected from top to bottom through the second one-way valve (240). The top of the third main pipeline (220) is a closed end and the inside is a cavity. The closed end is provided with a connecting hole that communicates with the cavity. The fourth type branch pipeline (211) and the fifth type branch pipeline (212) are both connected to the connecting hole.

9. The heat exchanger of claim 8, wherein, The fourth type of branch pipe (211), the fifth type of branch pipe (212) and the sixth type of branch pipe (213) are all bends, and the highest position of the fifth type of branch pipe (212) is lower than the highest position of the fourth type of branch pipe (211) and higher than the highest position of the sixth type of branch pipe (213).

10. An air conditioner characterized by comprising: Includes the heat exchanger as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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