Heat exchanger, air conditioner

Abstract

This application relates to the field of air conditioner technology and discloses a heat exchanger including heat exchange tubes, a first manifold, a second manifold, and a flow path switching assembly. The heat exchange tubes form multiple heat exchange passages, each including an upper heat exchange channel and a lower subcooling channel. The multiple heat exchange channels are connected in parallel to form a heat exchange tube assembly. The subcooling channel can be switched between a parallel connection and a series connection with the heat exchange tube assembly. The flow path switching assembly is configured such that when liquid refrigerant enters the first manifold from below, the refrigerant flows from the first end to the second end of the multiple heat exchange passages, connecting the heat exchange tube assembly and the subcooling channel in parallel; when gaseous refrigerant enters the first manifold from above, the refrigerant flows from the first end to the second end of the multiple heat exchange channels, connecting the heat exchange tube assembly and the subcooling channel in series. This application also discloses an air conditioner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of air conditioner technology, such as a heat exchanger and an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] For air conditioners that switch between cooling and heating modes, the heat exchanger also switches between functioning as a condenser and an evaporator. The requirements for the piping configuration differ depending on whether the heat exchanger is used as an evaporator or a condenser. When used as a condenser, the heat exchanger requires longer piping to achieve a certain degree of subcooling of the refrigerant. When used as an evaporator, the heat exchanger needs shorter piping to improve its evaporation efficiency.

[0003] To achieve high heat exchange efficiency when the heat exchanger functions as both an evaporator and a condenser, a heat exchanger is disclosed in the related technology. The heat exchanger includes multiple refrigerant pipes, a first flow divider element, a second flow divider element, a first one-way valve, a third flow divider element, a fourth flow divider element, and a second one-way valve. The multiple refrigerant pipes form a first heat exchange passage, a second heat exchange passage, a third heat exchange passage, a fourth heat exchange passage, a fifth heat exchange passage, and a sixth heat exchange passage. When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the multiple heat exchange passages are connected in parallel. When the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the multiple heat exchange passages are connected in series.

[0004] In the process of implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, at least the following problems were found in the related art:

[0005] When a heat exchanger functions as an evaporator and a condenser, the refrigerant flow paths in some heat exchange pathways are reversed. When the air outlet direction of the fan corresponding to the heat exchanger is fixed, the heat exchange efficiency of some heat exchange pathways is relatively low.

[0006] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this application, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Utility Model Content

[0007] To provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed embodiments, a brief summary is given below. This summary is not intended as a general commentary, nor is it intended to identify key / important components or describe the scope of protection of these embodiments, but rather as a prelude to the detailed description that follows.

[0008] This disclosure provides a heat exchanger and an air conditioner that improve the heat exchange efficiency of each heat exchange path when the variable flow path heat exchanger is used as an evaporator and as a condenser.

[0009] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger includes heat exchange tubes, a first manifold, a second manifold, and a flow path switching assembly. The heat exchange tubes form multiple heat exchange passages, each including an upper heat exchange channel and a lower subcooling channel. The multiple heat exchange channels are connected in parallel to form a heat exchange tube assembly. The subcooling channel can be switched between a parallel connection and a series connection with the heat exchange tube assembly. The first manifold has a first section connecting a first end of the multiple heat exchange channels and a second section connecting a first end of the subcooling channel. The second manifold connects a second end of the multiple heat exchange passages. The flow path switching assembly is configured such that when liquid refrigerant enters the first manifold from below, the refrigerant flows from the first end to the second end of the multiple heat exchange channels, connecting the heat exchange tube assembly and the subcooling channel in parallel; when gaseous refrigerant enters the first manifold from above, the refrigerant flows from the first end to the second end of the multiple heat exchange channels, connecting the heat exchange tube assembly and the subcooling channel in series.

[0010] In some embodiments, the flow path switching assembly includes a reversing conduit and a first conductive component, wherein the reversing conduit is connected at both ends to the first manifold and the second manifold, respectively, and the reversing conduit is located above the plurality of heat exchange paths; the first conductive component is disposed on the reversing conduit or the second manifold, and the first conductive component is configured to allow refrigerant to enter the first manifold from the second manifold and block refrigerant from entering the second manifold from the first manifold.

[0011] In some embodiments, the flow path switching assembly further includes a second conducting component disposed in the first manifold and located between the reversing pipe and a first section of the first manifold. The second conducting component is configured to conduct when gaseous refrigerant enters the first manifold from above and to cut off when liquid refrigerant enters the first manifold from below.

[0012] In some embodiments, the flow path switching component further includes a third conducting component disposed in the first confluence device and located between a first section and a second section of the first confluence device. The third conducting component is configured to be closed when gaseous refrigerant enters the first confluence device from above and open when liquid refrigerant enters the first confluence device from below.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first conducting component includes a first one-way valve.

[0014] In some embodiments, the second conducting component includes a second one-way valve.

[0015] In some embodiments, the third conducting component includes a third one-way valve.

[0016] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tubes form three heat exchange channels, and the three heat exchange channels have the same number of tubes.

[0017] In some embodiments, the second end of the heat exchange channel is lower than the first end of the heat exchange channel.

[0018] In some embodiments, the first manifold includes a connecting pipe section, a first bend, and a second bend, wherein the connecting pipe section is used to connect the first end of the plurality of heat exchange passages; the first bend is connected to the top end of the connecting pipe section, and the interface opening of the first bend faces downward; the second bend is connected to the bottom end of the connecting pipe section, and the interface opening of the second bend faces upward.

[0019] In some embodiments, the interface of the first bend is located below the position where the uppermost heat exchange channel of the plurality of heat exchange channels connects to the first manifold.

[0020] In some embodiments, the interface of the second bend does not extend beyond the location where the first end of the subcooled flow channel is connected to the first manifold.

[0021] In some embodiments, a filter assembly is provided at the portion where the second bend connects to the connecting pipe segment.

[0022] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes the heat exchanger described above.

[0023] The heat exchanger and air conditioner provided in this disclosure can achieve the following technical effects:

[0024] The heat exchanger provided in this disclosure achieves synergistic optimization of operating condition adaptability and efficient heat exchange through zoned flow convergence, flexible refrigerant pipe series-parallel design, and intelligent flow path switching. When the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the gaseous refrigerant is condensed in the main heat exchange channel and then flows counter-currently through the subcooling channel to enhance subcooling, thereby improving condensation efficiency in conjunction with counter-current heat exchange. When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the multi-path parallel design reduces pressure loss, and the long stroke of the series pipe group ensures sufficient condensation of the liquid refrigerant. Furthermore, the counter-current setting of refrigerant and air in both modes further enhances the heat transfer effect, ultimately significantly improving heat exchange efficiency and system stability under different operating conditions while reducing pressure loss.

[0025] The above general description and the description below are exemplary and illustrative only and are not intended to limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0026] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. These illustrations and drawings do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements having the same reference numerals in the drawings are shown as similar elements. The drawings are not to be scaled. And wherein:

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heat exchanger provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a heat exchanger used as a condenser according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a heat exchanger used as an evaporator according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0030] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first manifold device of a heat exchanger provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0031] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second manifold device of a heat exchanger provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0032] Figure 6 This is a top view of a first manifold of a heat exchanger provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0033] Figure 7 This is a top view of the second manifold of a heat exchanger provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0034] Figure label:

[0035] 110: Heat exchange channel; 120: Subcooling channel; 130: Heat exchange tube assembly; 200: First manifold; 201: First interface; 202: Second interface; 203: First section; 204: Second section; 210: Connecting pipe section; 220: First bend; 230: Second bend; 240: T-junction; 250: First branch pipe; 300: Second manifold; 310: Second branch pipe; 411: Reversing pipe; 412: First connecting component; 413: First check valve; 414: Third bend; 420: Second connecting component; 421: Second check valve; 430: Third connecting component; 431: Third check valve; 440: Filter assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0036] To provide a more detailed understanding of the features and technical content of the embodiments of this disclosure, the implementation of the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this disclosure. In the following technical description, for ease of explanation, several details are used to provide a full understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, one or more embodiments may still be implemented without these details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices may be simplified in their depiction to simplify the drawings.

[0037] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this disclosure are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate for the embodiments of this disclosure described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0038] In this disclosure, the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," "middle," "outer," "front," and "rear," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for better description of the embodiments of this disclosure and their implementations, and are not intended to limit the indicated devices, elements, or components to having a specific orientation, or to require them to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Furthermore, some of the aforementioned terms may be used to indicate other meanings besides orientation or positional relationship; for example, the term "upper" may in some cases indicate a dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in the embodiments of this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0039] Furthermore, the terms "set up," "connect," and "fix" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or it can be an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0040] Unless otherwise stated, the term "multiple" means two or more.

[0041] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the character " / " indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B means: A or B.

[0042] The term "and / or" describes an association between objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B means: A or B, or A and B.

[0043] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in the present disclosure can be combined with each other.

[0044] For air conditioners that switch between cooling and heating modes, the heat exchanger also switches between functioning as a condenser and an evaporator. The requirements for the piping configuration differ depending on whether the heat exchanger is used as an evaporator or a condenser. When used as a condenser, the heat exchanger requires longer piping to achieve a certain degree of subcooling of the refrigerant. When used as an evaporator, the heat exchanger needs shorter piping to improve its evaporation efficiency.

[0045] To achieve high heat exchange efficiency when a heat exchanger functions as both an evaporator and a condenser, a heat exchanger has been disclosed in related technologies. This heat exchanger includes multiple refrigerant pipes, a first diversion element, a second diversion element, a first one-way valve, a third diversion element, a fourth diversion element, and a second one-way valve. The multiple refrigerant pipes form a first heat exchange passage, a second heat exchange passage, a third heat exchange passage, a fourth heat exchange passage, a fifth heat exchange passage, and a sixth heat exchange passage. When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the multiple heat exchange passages are connected in parallel; when it functions as a condenser, the multiple heat exchange passages are connected in series. The problem with this technology is that when the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator and a condenser, the refrigerant flow paths in some heat exchange passages are reversed. Given a fixed fan outlet direction, the heat exchange efficiency in some heat exchange passages is low. Furthermore, when the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the refrigerant flow path is long, resulting in significant pressure loss and affecting the refrigerant circulation volume in the refrigerant circulation system.

[0046] To improve the heat exchange efficiency of each heat exchange path in the variable flow path heat exchanger and reduce the pressure loss of the refrigerant in the heat exchanger, combined with Figure 1-7 As shown, this embodiment of the present disclosure provides a heat exchanger, which includes heat exchange tubes, a first manifold 200, a second manifold 300, and a flow path switching assembly. The heat exchange tubes form multiple heat exchange passages, including multiple upper heat exchange channels 110 and a lower subcooling channel 120. The multiple heat exchange channels 110 are connected in parallel to form a heat exchange tube assembly 130. The subcooling channel 120 can be switched between a parallel state and a series state with the heat exchange tube assembly 130. The first manifold 200 has a first section 203 for connecting the first ends of the multiple heat exchange channels 110, and a second section... 204 is used to connect the first end of the subcooling channel 120; the second manifold 300 is used to connect the second ends of the multiple heat exchange channels 110 and the second end of the subcooling channel 120; the flow path switching component is configured such that when liquid refrigerant enters the first manifold 200 from below, the refrigerant flows from the first end to the second end of the multiple heat exchange channels and the heat exchange tube group 130 is connected in parallel with the subcooling channel 120; when gaseous refrigerant enters the first manifold 200 from above, the refrigerant flows from the first end to the second end of the multiple heat exchange channels 110 and the heat exchange tube group 130 is connected in series with the subcooling channel 120.

[0047] In this embodiment of the disclosure, multiple refrigerant pipes form multiple heat exchange paths, and each heat exchange path contains one or more refrigerant pipes. The refrigerant pipes in each heat exchange path can be connected in series or in parallel. When the multiple refrigerant pipes in the heat exchange path are connected in parallel, the flow cross-section of the refrigerant in the heat exchange path is larger; when the multiple refrigerant pipes in the heat exchange path are connected in series, the travel distance of the refrigerant in the heat exchange path is longer.

[0048] Multiple heat exchange passages include an upper heat exchange channel 110 and a lower subcooling channel 120. Each heat exchange passage includes a first end and a second end, and the refrigerant flows in the heat exchange passage from the first end to the second end or from the second end to the first end.

[0049] The first manifold 200 is used to connect the first ends of multiple heat exchange passages. The first manifold 200 includes a first interface 201 located above and a second interface 202 located below, and the first interface 201 and the second interface 202 are divided into a first section and a second section 204. The first section 203 is located above the second section 204, and the first section 203 is used to connect the first ends of multiple heat exchange channels 110, and the second section 204 is used to connect the first end of the subcooling channel 120.

[0050] When the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, gaseous refrigerant enters through the first port 201, flows through multiple heat exchange channels 110, enters the subcooling channel 120, and then exits through the second port 202. When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, liquid refrigerant enters through the second port 202, undergoes heat exchange through multiple heat exchange channels 110, and then exits through the first port 201.

[0051] When the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the gaseous refrigerant flows into the subcooling channel 120 after heat exchange, which can give the refrigerant a certain degree of subcooling. When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the liquid refrigerant passes through multiple heat exchange paths, resulting in a large number of heat exchange paths and a small pressure loss. The liquid refrigerant can fully absorb heat and evaporate in the heat exchanger.

[0052] The flow path switching component, as the core control unit, switches the connection state of the heat exchange channel 110 and the subcooling channel 120 according to the inflow and outflow direction of the refrigerant. When liquid refrigerant enters the first manifold 200 from below, the component guides the refrigerant to flow from the first end to the second end of each heat exchange channel, ensuring that the liquid refrigerant evaporates completely. When gaseous refrigerant enters the first manifold 200 from above, the component guides the refrigerant to flow from the first end to the second end of multiple heat exchange channels 110, and then, after converging, flows from the second end to the first end of the subcooling channel 120, thereby fully cooling the refrigerant and achieving a certain degree of subcooling.

[0053] When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the refrigerant flows from the first end to the second end in each heat exchange path. When the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the refrigerant flows from the first end to the second end in each heat exchange channel 110. With a fixed fan outlet direction, along the thickness direction of the heat exchanger (i.e....) Figures 1 to 3 The airflow direction (left and right) can be set to be opposite to the refrigerant flow direction, thereby improving the heat exchange effect of each heat exchange channel 110.

[0054] Optionally, the side of the heat exchanger closest to the second end of the multiple heat exchange passages is the windward side, and the side closest to the first end of the multiple heat exchange passages is the leeward side.

[0055] The refrigerant flows from the first end to the second end in the heat exchange passage. In the thickness direction of the heat exchanger, the flow direction of the refrigerant is opposite to that of the air, thereby realizing the counter-current heat exchange between the air and the refrigerant and improving the heat exchange effect of the heat exchanger.

[0056] Optionally, the multiple heat exchange tubes are divided into a first row of heat exchange tubes and a second row of heat exchange tubes, with the first row of heat exchange tubes located on the leeward side and the second row of heat exchange tubes located on the windward side. The heat exchange path includes a portion of the heat exchange tubes in the first row and a portion of the heat exchange tubes in the second row.

[0057] With this configuration, in any heat exchange path, the refrigerant flows from the first row of heat exchange tubes to the second row of heat exchange tubes along the thickness direction of the heat exchanger, which is beneficial for the heat exchanger to achieve counter-current heat exchange between the refrigerant and the air.

[0058] Optionally, the number of heat exchange tubes in the first row of heat exchange tubes in the heat exchange passage is equal to the number of heat exchange tubes in the second row.

[0059] With this configuration, the refrigerant is distributed more evenly in the first and second rows of heat exchange tubes in a single heat exchange path, which is beneficial for countercurrent heat exchange in the heat exchanger.

[0060] The heat exchanger provided in this disclosure achieves synergistic optimization of operating condition adaptability and efficient heat exchange through zoned flow convergence, flexible refrigerant pipe series-parallel design, and intelligent flow path switching. When the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the gaseous refrigerant undergoes primary condensation in the heat exchange channel 110 and then flows counter-currently through the subcooling channel 120 to enhance subcooling, thereby improving condensation efficiency in conjunction with counter-current heat exchange. When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the multi-path parallel design reduces pressure loss, and the long stroke of the series pipe group ensures sufficient condensation of the liquid refrigerant. Furthermore, the counter-current setting of the refrigerant and air in both modes further enhances the heat transfer effect, ultimately significantly improving heat exchange efficiency and system stability under different operating conditions while reducing pressure loss.

[0061] Optionally, the flow path switching assembly includes a reversing conduit 411 and a first conductive component 412, wherein the reversing conduit 411 is connected at both ends to the first manifold 200 and the second manifold 300 respectively, and the reversing conduit 411 is located above the reversing conduit 411; the first conductive component 412 is disposed on the reversing conduit 411 or the second manifold 300, and the first conductive component 412 is configured to allow refrigerant to enter the first manifold 200 from the second manifold 300 and to block refrigerant from entering the second manifold 300 from the first manifold 200.

[0062] When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the refrigerant flows from top to top within the heat exchanger, from the first manifold 200 to the second manifold 300. At this time, the reversing pipe 411 and the first conductive component 412 are in a conductive state. After the liquid refrigerant evaporates and absorbs heat, it can enter the first manifold 200 through the reversing pipe 411 and then be discharged from the first port 201. When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the refrigerant flows from top to bottom within the heat exchanger, from the first manifold 200 to the second manifold 300. At this time, the reversing pipe 411 is blocked by the first conductive component 412, allowing the refrigerant to flow downwards into the first section 203, thus flowing from the first end to the second end in the multiple heat exchange channels 110.

[0063] This configuration allows both the first port 201 and the second port 202 of the heat exchanger to be located in the first manifold 200, reducing the difficulty of connecting the heat exchanger pipes and facilitating the counter-current heat exchange between the refrigerant and the air.

[0064] Optionally, the flow path switching assembly further includes a second conducting component 420, which is disposed in the first manifold 200 and located between the reversing pipe 411 and the first section 203 of the first manifold 200. The second conducting component 420 is configured to be turned on when gaseous refrigerant enters the first manifold 200 from above and turned off when liquid refrigerant enters the first manifold 200 from below.

[0065] When the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the second conductive component 420 is in a conductive state, allowing the refrigerant to flow downwards into the first section 203 and the second section 204 of the first manifold 200. When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, although the refrigerant still flows upwards as a whole under the influence of gravity, the second conductive component 420 cuts off the connection between the first port 201 and the first section 203 of the first manifold 200. All the gaseous refrigerant flows through the second manifold 300 and returns to the first manifold 200 from the reversing pipe 411, and is discharged from the first port 201.

[0066] This allows for a more stable and orderly flow of refrigerant, reducing or preventing the discharge of incompletely evaporated refrigerant from the first interface 201.

[0067] Optionally, the flow path switching component further includes a third conductive component 430, which is disposed in the first confluence device 200 and located between the first section 203 and the second section 204 of the first confluence device 200. The third conductive component 430 is configured to be cut off when gaseous refrigerant enters the first confluence device 200 from above and to be conductive when liquid refrigerant enters the first confluence device 200 from below.

[0068] When the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the second conductive component 420, located between the first section 203 and the second section 204, is open, while the first conductive component 412, located in the reversing pipe 411, is closed. The refrigerant enters the first manifold 200 from the first inlet 201, then enters the first section 203, and then, after passing through multiple heat exchange channels 110, enters the second manifold 300. It then flows from the second end of the subcooling channel towards the first section 204 of the first manifold 200 and is discharged from the second inlet 202.

[0069] When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the second conductive component 420 located between the first section 203 and the second section 204 is closed, while the first conductive component 412 located in the reversing pipe 411 is open. The refrigerant enters the first manifold 200 from the second interface 202, flows upwards sequentially through the first section 203 and the second section 204, and enters the second manifold 300 through multiple heat exchange paths. After being collected in the second manifold 300, the refrigerant returns to the first manifold 200 through the reversing pipe 411 and is discharged from the first interface 201.

[0070] This configuration allows the heat exchanger to automatically switch between the series and parallel connection of the heat exchange tube group 130 and the subcooling channel 120 when it is used as an evaporator and a condenser.

[0071] It should be noted that when the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator or a condenser, multiple heat exchange paths can maintain a counter-current heat exchange state. When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the subcooling channel 120 operates in a counter-current heat exchange state; when it functions as a condenser, the flow direction of the subcooling channel 120 is the same as the air flow direction. This is because when the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the temperature difference between the refrigerant and the air in the subcooling channel 120 is small, and counter-current heat exchange does not significantly improve heat exchange efficiency. However, when the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the lower subcooling channel 120 is filled with liquid refrigerant and has a larger temperature difference with the air, allowing counter-current heat exchange to significantly improve the heat exchange efficiency of the subcooling channel 120. Overall, compared to setting up additional piping to change the refrigerant flow direction in the subcooling channel 120, the heat exchanger's piping structure is simpler.

[0072] Optionally, the first conducting component 412 includes a first check valve 413.

[0073] The first conducting component 412 includes a first one-way valve 413. The one-way valve can automatically switch on and off states based on different refrigerant flow directions, which reduces the hardware cost of the heat exchanger and improves the working reliability of the heat exchanger.

[0074] Optionally, the second conducting component 420 includes a second check valve 421.

[0075] The second conducting component 420 includes a second one-way valve 421. The one-way valve can automatically switch on and off states based on different refrigerant flow directions, which reduces the hardware cost of the heat exchanger and improves the working reliability of the heat exchanger.

[0076] Optionally, the third conducting component 430 includes a third check valve 431.

[0077] The third conducting component 430 includes a third one-way valve 431. The one-way valve can automatically switch on and off states based on different refrigerant flow directions, reducing the hardware cost of the heat exchanger and improving the operational reliability of the heat exchanger.

[0078] Optionally, the heat exchange tubes form three heat exchange channels 110, and the three heat exchange channels 110 have the same number of tubes.

[0079] The heat exchanger has multiple heat exchange tubes with the same diameter. If the heat exchange tubes form four or more heat exchange channels 110, the refrigerant entering the subcooling channel 120 will face significant pressure changes when the heat exchanger is used as a condenser, which will greatly affect the overall refrigerant circulation speed. If the heat exchange tubes form two or fewer heat exchange channels 110, the number of evaporation paths for the liquid refrigerant is limited when the heat exchanger is used as an evaporator, which is not conducive to the full evaporation and heat absorption of the liquid refrigerant. With three heat exchange channels 110, when used as a condenser, the three channels converge into one subcooling channel 120; when used as an evaporator, the four channels are connected in parallel, thus balancing the heat exchange efficiency when the heat exchanger is used as both an evaporator and a condenser.

[0080] Optionally, the two upper heat exchange channels of the three heat exchange channels are connected to the first manifold via a tee 240, and the lower heat exchange channel is connected to the first manifold via a first branch pipe 250.

[0081] This configuration allows for a more even distribution of the refrigerant in the two upper heat exchange channels.

[0082] Optionally, the subcooling channel 120 has the same number of tubes as the heat exchange channel 110.

[0083] Optionally, the second end of the heat exchange channel 110 is lower than the first end of the heat exchange channel 110.

[0084] When the heat exchanger functions as both an evaporator and a condenser, the refrigerant flows from the first end to the second end in the heat exchange channel 110. The lower position of the second end facilitates the flow of liquid refrigerant from left to right under gravity, thereby increasing the refrigerant circulation rate within the heat exchanger.

[0085] Optionally, the first manifold 200 includes a connecting pipe section 210, a first bend 220, and a second bend 230, wherein the connecting pipe section 210 is used to connect the first end of multiple heat exchange passages; the first bend 220 is connected to the top end of the connecting pipe section 210, and the interface opening of the first bend 220 faces downward; the second bend 230 is connected to the bottom end of the connecting pipe section, and the interface opening of the second bend 230 faces upward.

[0086] The connecting pipe section 210 is a vertically arranged straight pipe, which facilitates the connection of multiple heat exchange paths and the even distribution of refrigerant to each heat exchange channel 110 within the vertical pipe section. One end of the first bend 220 is connected to the top of the connecting pipe section 210, and the other end serves as the first interface 201 of the heat exchanger. One end of the second bend 230 is connected to the bottom of the connecting pipe section 210, and the other end serves as the second interface 202 of the heat exchanger. The first bend 220 is a U-shaped pipe with both ends pointing downwards, and the second bend 230 is a U-shaped pipe with both ends pointing upwards.

[0087] When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the shape of the first bend 220 facilitates the removal of gaseous refrigerant, thereby reducing or preventing the formation of gas columns in the heat exchanger piping that could affect refrigerant flow. The shape of the second bend 230 increases the upward distance that the refrigerant needs to travel when exiting the heat exchanger. Liquid refrigerant, however, is more significantly affected by gravity. This design allows the liquid refrigerant to be filtered within the heat exchanger, thus reducing or preventing knocking caused by liquid refrigerant entering the compressor.

[0088] When the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the shape of the first bend 220 helps to intercept liquid refrigerant at the front of the heat exchanger, thus preventing incomplete evaporation of the refrigerant at the front stage and affecting the cooling or heating efficiency of the refrigerant circulation system. The shape of the second bend 230 intercepts gaseous refrigerant, thereby allowing the refrigerant to enter the downstream throttling device and evaporator in liquid form as much as possible.

[0089] This configuration can increase the refrigerant flow resistance when the heat exchanger is used as a condenser and as an evaporator, and improve the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger.

[0090] Optionally, the interface of the first bend 220 is lower than the position where the uppermost heat exchange channel 110 of the plurality of heat exchange channels 110 is connected to the first confluence device 200.

[0091] When the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the gaseous refrigerant enters from above and flows into each heat exchange channel 110 via the first section 203. The refrigerant in the uppermost heat exchange channel 110 tends to flow downwards due to gravity during condensation. The low-position design of the first bend 220 interface avoids obstructing the refrigerant flow in the upper heat exchange channel 110, reducing local eddies and resistance losses. When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the gaseous refrigerant formed after the liquid refrigerant evaporates flows upwards. The low-position interface reduces the flow resistance of the gaseous refrigerant when entering the reversing pipe 411 or the manifold, avoiding flow obstruction caused by an excessively high interface position. Simultaneously, this design reduces refrigerant mixing interference between different channels, ensuring a more uniform refrigerant distribution in each heat exchange channel 110. Combined with the conduction control of the flow path switching component, this further improves the heat exchange efficiency and system operational stability under both operating conditions.

[0092] Optionally, the interface of the second bend 230 does not exceed the position where the first end of the subcooled flow channel 120 is connected to the first manifold 200.

[0093] This configuration mitigates the uneven distribution of liquid refrigerant across multiple heat exchange pathways. When the heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the low-position restriction of the second bend 230 interface prevents impact or obstruction on the reverse flow of refrigerant within the subcooling channel 120 after primary condensation, ensuring smooth refrigerant flow and reducing local resistance and mixing interference caused by excessively high interface positions, thus guaranteeing stable subcooling. When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the liquid refrigerant enters from below and flows through the first end of the subcooling channel 120 into each heat exchange pathway. This interface position guides the refrigerant into the subcooling channel 120 more smoothly, avoiding refrigerant stagnation or uneven distribution that may occur when the interface is higher than the connection position. This design, in conjunction with the low-position layout of the first bend 220, optimizes the flow field distribution from both the upper and lower flow channel interface positions, further reducing mutual interference between different flow channels, improving the uniformity of refrigerant distribution in each flow channel, and coordinating with the conduction control of the flow path switching component to continuously enhance the heat exchange efficiency and operational stability of the heat exchanger under both operating conditions.

[0094] Optionally, a filter assembly 440 is provided at the portion where the second bend 230 connects to the connecting pipe section 210.

[0095] Impurities in the refrigerant tend to deposit naturally at the bend of the second bend 230 due to flow diversion. By placing the filter assembly 440 at the connection between it and the connecting pipe section 210, most impurities can be deposited and intercepted at the bend, reducing the total amount of impurities entering the filter assembly 440. This "deposition before filtration" hierarchical interception mode can slow down the clogging rate of the filter assembly 440, extend its effective service life, and reduce maintenance costs and system downtime caused by frequent replacement of the filter assembly 440. At the same time, the filter assembly 440 can still accurately intercept fine impurities that have not yet deposited, preventing them from entering the core heat exchange channel 110. Combined with the optimized flow field design of the low-position interface of the second bend 230, it not only ensures the cleanliness of the refrigerant flow but also improves the long-term stability and economy of the system by delaying the failure of the filter assembly 440, forming a highly efficient synergy with the operating condition adaptation function of the flow path switching component.

[0096] Optionally, the diameter of the second bend 230 is smaller than the diameter of the first bend 220.

[0097] When the heat exchanger functions as an evaporator and as a condenser, gaseous refrigerant mainly flows through the first bend 220, while liquid refrigerant mainly flows through the second bend 230. The diameter of the second bend 230 is smaller than that of the first bend 220, which facilitates connecting the heat exchanger to the refrigerant circulation system and ensures that the pipe diameter is compatible with the state of the refrigerant.

[0098] Optionally, the second manifold 300 includes a manifold with its bottom end sealed.

[0099] If the second end of the subcooling channel 120 is connected to the bottom of the manifold, the liquid refrigerant flowing downwards can easily impact the refrigerant flow within the subcooling channel 120, affecting the stability of the refrigerant flow. By sealing the bottom of the manifold and connecting the second end of the subcooling channel 120 to the side wall of the manifold, a space is created near the bottom of the manifold to temporarily store some of the refrigerant, which can provide some buffering for the downward-flowing refrigerant. This arrangement helps improve the flow stability of the refrigerant in the heat exchanger.

[0100] Optionally, the first end of the heat exchange passage is connected to the first manifold 200 through the first branch pipe 250, the included angle between the first bend pipe 220 and the first branch pipe 250 is the first included angle α, the included angle between the second bend pipe 230 and the first branch pipe 250 is the second included angle b, and the first included angle α is smaller than the second included angle b.

[0101] With this configuration, when the first manifold 200 connects to multiple heat exchange paths, the first and second bends avoid these paths, thus reducing the size of the heat exchanger. Furthermore, since the first included angle α is smaller than the second included angle β, the resistance encountered by high-pressure, high-speed gaseous refrigerant entering and exiting the heat exchanger through the first bend 220 is less. For low-pressure, low-speed liquid refrigerant, even a larger second included angle will not significantly increase resistance.

[0102] This configuration not only allows the first port 201 and the second port 202 to be staggered for easier pipe connection, but also reduces the pressure loss when the refrigerant enters and exits the heat exchanger.

[0103] Optionally, the second end of the heat exchange passage is connected to the second manifold 300 via the second branch pipe 310. The reversing pipe 411 includes a third bend 414. The angle between the second branch pipe 310 and the third bend 414 is c. The third angle c is less than the first angle a or greater than the second angle b.

[0104] With this configuration, the first bend 220, the second bend 230, and the third bend 414 are all positioned to avoid each other, making it easier to connect the heat exchanger to the refrigerant circulation system.

[0105] This disclosure provides an air conditioner that includes the heat exchanger described above.

[0106] The air conditioner provided in this embodiment has the same implementation method and technical effects as the heat exchanger described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0107] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings fully illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure to enable those skilled in the art to practice them. Other embodiments may include structural and other changes. The embodiments represent only possible variations. Individual components and functions are optional unless explicitly required, and the order of operation may vary. Parts and features of some embodiments may be included or substituted for parts and features of other embodiments. Embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes may be made without departing from its scope. The scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A heat exchanger, characterized in that, include: The heat exchange tubes form multiple heat exchange paths, including multiple heat exchange channels located above and a subcooling channel located below. The multiple heat exchange channels are connected in parallel to form a heat exchange tube group. The subcooling channel can be switched to a parallel or series connection with the heat exchange tube group. The first manifold device has a first section for connecting the first end of the plurality of heat exchange channels and a second section for connecting the first end of the subcooling channel. The second busbar is used to connect the second end of the plurality of heat exchange passages; The flow path switching component is configured such that when liquid refrigerant enters the first manifold from below, the refrigerant flows from the first end to the second end of multiple heat exchange channels and the heat exchange tube group is connected in parallel with the subcooling channel; when gaseous refrigerant enters the first manifold from above, the refrigerant flows from the first end to the second end of multiple heat exchange channels and the heat exchange tube group is connected in series with the subcooling channel.

2. The heat exchanger according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow path switching component includes: A reversing pipe is connected at both ends to the first manifold and the second manifold, respectively, and the reversing pipe is located above the plurality of heat exchange passages; A first conductive component is disposed in the reversing pipe or the second manifold, the first conductive component being configured to allow refrigerant to enter the first manifold from the second manifold and to block refrigerant from entering the second manifold from the first manifold.

3. The heat exchanger according to claim 2, characterized in that, The flow path switching component also includes: The second conductive component is disposed in the first manifold and located between the reversing pipe and the first section of the first manifold. The second conductive component is configured to be open when gaseous refrigerant enters the first manifold from above and closed when liquid refrigerant enters the first manifold from below.

4. The heat exchanger according to claim 3, characterized in that, The flow path switching component also includes: A third conductive component is disposed in the first junction device and located between the first section and the second section of the first junction device. The third conductive component is configured to cut off when gaseous refrigerant enters the first junction device from above and to conduct when liquid refrigerant enters the first junction device from below.

5. The heat exchanger according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first conducting component includes a first check valve; and / or, The second conducting component includes a second check valve; and / or, The third conducting component includes a third one-way valve.

6. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The heat exchange tubes form three heat exchange channels, and the three heat exchange channels have the same number of tubes; and / or, the second end of the heat exchange channel is lower than the first end of the heat exchange channel.

7. The heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The first combiner device includes: A connecting pipe section is used to connect the first end of the plurality of heat exchange passages; The first bend is connected to the top of the connecting pipe section, and the opening of the first bend faces downward. The second bend is connected to the bottom end of the connecting pipe section, and the interface opening of the second bend faces upward.

8. The heat exchanger according to claim 7, characterized in that, The interface of the first bend is lower than the position where the uppermost heat exchange channel among the plurality of heat exchange channels connects to the first manifold; and / or, The interface of the second bend does not exceed the position where the first end of the subcooled flow channel is connected to the first manifold.

9. The heat exchanger according to claim 7, characterized in that, A filter assembly is installed at the connection between the second bend and the connecting pipe section.

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

Images