Heat exchange channel module and air conditioner

Abstract

The utility model discloses a heat exchange flow path module and air conditioner, heat exchange flow path module includes: valve island, valve island has refrigerant flow path and with refrigerant flow path intercommunication's first interface, and valve island is equipped with the connecting portion, functional component has the second interface, and functional component is equipped with the connecting cooperation portion, and connecting portion and connecting cooperation portion are detachably connected, and first interface is connected with the second interface, and functional component communicates with valve island, sealing element, and the connecting place of first interface and second interface is sealed through sealing element. According to the heat exchange flow path module of the utility model embodiment, through detachable connection of connecting portion and connecting cooperation portion, sealing connection of sealing element at the connecting place of first interface and second interface, can realize the fastening connection and sealing connection between valve island and every functional component such as valve piece, heat exchanger, interface piece, and the connection difficulty is low, and the operation is convenient, and the risk of heat exchange medium leakage is low, and the safety is good.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of air conditioner technology, and more specifically, to a heat exchange flow path module and an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, in air conditioners, the various parts of the heat exchange flow path module are generally connected by welding. Because the structure or materials of each part are relatively complex, complex processes are required to weld the various parts together, which makes it difficult to achieve the integration of the heat exchange flow path module. Utility Model Content

[0003] This invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. Therefore, one objective of this invention is to provide a heat exchange flow path module that reduces the connection difficulty between the valve island and functional components such as valves and heat exchangers, facilitating the integration of the valve island, valves, interface components, and heat exchangers.

[0004] Another objective of this invention is to provide an air conditioner having the aforementioned heat exchange flow path module.

[0005] A heat exchange flow path module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a valve island having a refrigerant flow path and a first interface communicating with the refrigerant flow path, the valve island having a connecting portion; a functional component having a second interface and a connecting mating portion, the connecting portion being detachably connected to the connecting mating portion, the first interface being connected to the second interface, the functional component communicating with the valve island; and a sealing element sealing the connection between the first interface and the second interface.

[0006] According to the heat exchange flow path module of this utility model embodiment, through the detachable connection of the connecting part and the connecting mating part, and the sealing connection of the sealing element at the connection of the first interface and the second interface, it is possible to achieve a tight connection and sealing connection between the valve island and each functional component such as valve, heat exchanger, and interface component. During operation, the valve island and functional component are not prone to breakage, resulting in high connection strength, low connection difficulty, and convenient operation. Gaps are also not easily generated between the valve island and functional component, reducing the risk of heat exchange medium leakage, ensuring good safety, and facilitating the integration of the heat exchange flow path module.

[0007] In addition, the heat exchange flow path module according to the above embodiments of this utility model may also have the following additional technical features:

[0008] According to some embodiments of this utility model, the functional component is at least one of a valve, a heat exchanger, and an interface component.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first interface and the second interface are plugged into each other, and the outer peripheral surface of one of the first interface and the second interface is connected to the inner peripheral surface of the other through the sealing element. There are multiple sealing elements, and the multiple sealing elements are arranged at intervals along the plugging direction of the first interface and the second interface.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the second interface is inserted into the first interface, and the outer peripheral surface of the second interface is provided with a plurality of annular grooves, and the plurality of sealing elements are located in the plurality of annular grooves in a corresponding manner.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the second interface is inserted into the first interface, the first interface is provided with a limiting step, and the end face of the second interface abuts against the limiting step.

[0012] According to some embodiments of this utility model, the functional component is a valve, the inner circumferential surface of the connecting part is provided with an internal thread, the outer circumferential surface of the connecting mating part is provided with an external thread suitable for threaded connection with the connecting part, the valve includes a valve body, the valve body has a first valve cavity and a second valve cavity, a valve port is provided between the first valve cavity and the second valve cavity, the valve body is provided with a first valve port communicating with the first valve cavity and a second valve port communicating with the second valve cavity, the sealing member is disposed between the first valve port and the second valve port to separate the first valve port and the second valve port, at least one of the first valve port and the second valve port is in communication with the corresponding refrigerant flow path.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, there are multiple sealing elements, and the sealing element is provided between the first valve port and the connecting portion to separate the internal space of the first valve port and the connecting portion.

[0014] According to some embodiments of this utility model, the functional component is a heat exchanger, the heat exchanger is provided with a mounting plate, the mounting plate is provided with the connecting mating part, the connecting part is a first through hole, the connecting mating part is a second through hole, and fasteners are passed through the first through hole and the second through hole to connect the connecting part and the connecting mating part.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the heat exchanger includes a heat exchange body, the second through hole penetrates the mounting plate, the mounting plate is located on one side of the heat exchange body along the penetration direction of the second through hole, and in the width direction of the heat exchange body, the mounting plate has a protrusion protruding from the heat exchange body, and the second through hole is formed in the protrusion.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, there are two protrusions, which are respectively located on both sides of the width direction of the heat exchange body. There are multiple connecting parts, and each of the two protrusions is provided with a connecting part.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the mounting plate is provided with a clearance hole, and the second interface passes through the clearance hole to connect with the first interface; and / or, the mounting plate is fixedly connected to the end plate of the heat exchanger or is an integrally formed part, and the second interface is provided on the mounting plate.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the functional component is an interface component, the interface component includes a connecting plate and a second interface disposed on the connecting plate, the interface component has a connection path, a first port and a second port, the first port is formed on the second interface and communicates with the connection path, the connection path connects the second port and the first port, the first port communicates with the refrigerant flow path through the first interface, and the second port communicates with the accessories of the air conditioner through a connecting pipe.

[0019] The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a heat exchange flow path module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this utility model will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange flow path module according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0023] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Exploded view;

[0024] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The front view;

[0025] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Side view;

[0026] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Top view;

[0027] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view along the direction indicated by line AA;

[0028] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The center circle shows a magnified view of a portion at point B.

[0029] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view along the direction indicated by line CC;

[0030] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the valve island structure according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0031] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 The front view;

[0032] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 Side view;

[0033] Figure 12 yes Figure 9 Top view;

[0034] Figure 13 yes Figure 9 A bottom view;

[0035] Figure 14 This is a structural schematic diagram of the valve according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0036] Figure 15 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a valve according to an embodiment of the present utility model, wherein the coil is not shown;

[0037] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 The front view;

[0038] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0039] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 Side view;

[0040] Figure 19 yes Figure 15 Top view;

[0041] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the mounting plate according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0042] Figure 21 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a heat exchange flow path module according to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0043] Figure label:

[0044] Heat exchange flow path module 100;

[0045] Valve island 10; refrigerant flow path 101; first interface 11; limiting step 111; connecting part 12; first through hole 121; mounting part 13; valve cavity 131; first mounting base 14;

[0046] Functional component 20; second interface 21; connecting mating part 22; second through hole 221;

[0047] Valve component 201; valve body 231; first valve chamber 2311; second valve chamber 2312; valve port 2313; first valve port 2314; second valve port 2315; fastening mounting hole 2316; coil 232;

[0048] Heat exchanger 202; heat exchange body 241; base plate 2411; heat exchange unit 2412; end plate 2413; mounting plate 242; clearance hole 2421; first heat exchange interface 2451; second heat exchange interface 2452; third heat exchange interface 2461; fourth heat exchange interface 2462;

[0049] Interface component 203; connecting plate 25; connecting path 261; first port 262; second port 263;

[0050] Seals 30; Fasteners 40; Bolts 41; Gaskets 42; Nuts 43;

[0051] Second mounting base 51; connecting pipe 52; first connecting pipe 521; second connecting pipe 522. Detailed Implementation

[0052] The embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model.

[0053] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "transverse", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.

[0054] In the description of this utility model, "first feature" and "second feature" may include one or more of the features, "multiple" means two or more, "first feature above" or "below" the second feature may include the first and second features being in direct contact, or the first and second features being in contact through another feature between them, and "first feature above", "above" and "over" the second feature may include the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicate that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature.

[0055] The heat exchange flow path module 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0056] Reference Figures 1-21 As shown, the heat exchange flow path module 100 according to an embodiment of the present utility model may include: valve island 10, functional component 20 and sealing element 30.

[0057] Specifically, valve island 10 has a refrigerant flow path 101 and a first interface 11, which is connected to the refrigerant flow path 101, through which the heat exchange medium flows. Functional component 20 has a second interface 21, which is connected to the flow path within the functional component 20 for the heat exchange medium. The connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 connects the functional component 20 to the valve island 10, allowing the heat exchange medium to flow between them. The connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 is sealed by a seal 30, preventing leakage of the heat exchange medium between the valve island 10 and the functional component 20, thus improving the sealing performance between them. The seal 30 can be a sealing ring such as an O-ring.

[0058] The valve island 10 is provided with a connecting part 12, and the functional component 20 is provided with a connecting mating part 22. The connecting part 12 and the connecting mating part 22 are detachably connected, which is convenient for disassembly and assembly and has high connection strength. For example, the connecting part 12 and the connecting mating part 22 can be connected by one or more combinations of threaded connection, snap-fit ​​and other detachable connection methods, so that the valve island 10 and the functional component 20 can be fastened together by the connecting part 12 and the connecting mating part 22.

[0059] The valve island 10 can be connected to one or more functional components 20 simultaneously. There can be one or more first interfaces 11 and one or more corresponding second interfaces 21, facilitating communication between the valve island 10 and each functional component 20 via multiple first interfaces 11 and second interfaces 21, thus meeting the communication requirements of different flow paths between the valve island 10 and the functional components 20. There can be one or more connecting parts 12 and one or more corresponding connecting mating parts 22, facilitating detachable connections between the valve island 10 and each functional component 20 via multiple connecting parts 12 and connecting mating parts 22, thereby improving the connection strength between the valve island 10 and each functional component 20. Through the sealed connection of the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 at the sealing element 30, and through the detachable connection of the connecting parts 12 and connecting mating parts 22, the valve island 10 and the functional components 20 can be integrated into one unit, achieving miniaturization and centralization of the heat exchange flow path module 100, and improving the integration degree between the valve island 10 and the functional components 20.

[0060] Functional component 20 is at least one of valve 201, heat exchanger 202, and interface 203. Valve 201 can be an electronic expansion valve, four-way valve, solenoid valve, on / off valve, or other valve body in an air conditioner. Interface 203 can be used to connect valve island 10 to the air conditioner's heat exchanger, compressor, four-way valve, and other accessories. For example, functional component 20 may be multiple and include at least one valve 201, at least one heat exchanger 202, and at least one interface 203, or include at least one valve 201, at least one heat exchanger 202, and at least one interface 203.

[0061] For example, in some specific embodiments, such as Figures 1-20 As shown, the functional components 20 are multiple, including a heat exchanger 202 and two valves 201. The heat exchanger 202 has two second ports 21, each valve 201 has one second port 21, and the valve island 10 has three first ports 11. The three first ports 11 are connected one-to-one with the three second ports 21 and are sealed by seals 30, allowing the heat exchange medium to flow between the heat exchanger 202 and the two valves 201 through the valve island 10, and preventing leakage of the heat exchange medium, thus ensuring good sealing performance. The heat exchanger 202 has four connecting mating parts 22, each valve 201 has one connecting mating part 22, and the valve island 10 has five connecting parts 12. The five connecting parts 12 are detachably connected to the five connecting mating parts 22 in a one-to-one correspondence, facilitating disassembly and assembly, and ensuring high connection strength between the heat exchanger 202 and the two valves 201 and the valve island 10.

[0062] For example, in some specific embodiments, such as Figure 21As shown, functional component 20 is an interface component 203, which includes a connecting plate 25 and a second interface 21 disposed on the connecting plate 25. The interface component 203 has a connection passage 261, a first port 262, and a second port 263. The first port 262 is formed in the second interface 21 and communicates with the connection passage 261. The connection passage 261 connects the second port 263 and the first port 262. The first port 262 communicates with the refrigerant flow path 101 through the first interface 11, and the second port 263 communicates with the air conditioner's accessories through a connecting pipe. The connecting plate 25 and the second interface 21 are fixedly connected or are integrally formed (e.g., ...). Figure 21 As shown), there can be one or more second interfaces 21 on the connecting plate 25. When there are multiple second interfaces 21, the extension directions of different second interfaces 21 relative to the connecting part 25 can be the same or different. The accessories of the air conditioner refer to heat exchanger 202, compressor, four-way valve, etc. The connecting pipe 52 can be a shorter interface pipe or a longer flexible hose.

[0063] The first port 262 connects the connecting passage 261 and the refrigerant flow path 101, and the second port 263 connects the connecting passage 261 and the air conditioner accessories. The valve island 10 and the air conditioner accessories are connected through the interface piece 203. The connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 is sealed by the sealing piece 30, which facilitates the sealed connection between the valve island 10 and the air conditioner accessories. The number of interface pieces 203 can be changed according to the number of accessories to achieve a sealed connection between the valve island 10 and multiple accessories, which improves practicality. Figure 21 Although the connecting mating part 22 of the interface component 203 is not shown, it is understandable that the interface component 203 and the valve body 201 are detachably connected through the connecting part 12 and the connecting mating part 22, based on the above description.

[0064] During the connection process between the connecting part 12 and the connecting mating part 22, the sealing element 30 undergoes compression deformation to fill the gap between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21, making the connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 tighter and improving the sealing performance. After the connecting part 12 and the connecting mating part 22 are connected, and the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 are connected, the valve island 10 and the functional component 20 are integrated into one unit, making it difficult for the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 to separate and for the sealing element 30 to fall off. Therefore, the detachable connection between the connecting part 12 and the connecting mating part 22 can improve the sealing effect of the sealing element 30, reduce the risk of heat exchange medium leakage between the valve island 10 and the functional component 20, and improve safety.

[0065] In some related technologies, valves and heat exchangers are integrated into a single unit via valve islands, achieving miniaturization and centralization. However, the connection between the valve island and the valve components, as well as the connection between the valve island and the heat exchanger, is achieved through welding. The valve island is typically made of aluminum alloy, while the connection between the valve components and the valve island is usually made of stainless steel. The melting point of aluminum alloy is lower than that of stainless steel, and the difference in melting points between the two materials is significant. During the welding process, the aluminum alloy may melt while the stainless steel remains solid, easily leading to poor weld formation. For example, insufficient weld length results in low weld strength. Furthermore, at high temperatures, iron-aluminum intermetallic compounds can easily form between the aluminum alloy and stainless steel, reducing the toughness and strength of the joint and resulting in low shear strength and overall low connection strength. Therefore, the welding between valve islands and valve components, and between valve islands and heat exchangers, is difficult, has low connection strength, and involves a complex welding process with many weld points, making it difficult to achieve the integration of valve islands, valve components, and heat exchangers.

[0066] In this application, the valve island 10 and each functional component 20 (such as valve 201 or heat exchanger 202) are securely connected via a detachable connection of the connecting part 12 and the connecting mating part 22. This makes the connection between the valve island 10 and each functional component 20 easy to implement and operate. The connection between the valve island 10 and each functional component 20 is less prone to the formation of low-strength intermetallic compounds, making the connection less prone to cracking and resulting in high connection strength. The valve island 10 and each functional component 20 are sealed together via a sealing element 30 at the connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21. The connecting part 12 and the connecting mating part 22 securely connect the valve island 10 and the functional component 20, preventing the sealing element 30 from loosening or falling off. This ensures good sealing performance between the valve island 10 and each functional component 20 and facilitates the integration of the heat exchange flow path module 100.

[0067] According to the heat exchange flow path module 100 of this utility model embodiment, through the detachable connection of the connecting part 12 and the connecting mating part 22, and the sealing connection of the sealing member 30 at the connection of the first interface 11 and the second interface 21, it is possible to achieve a tight and sealed connection between the valve island 10 and each functional component 20, such as the valve 201, the heat exchanger 202, and the interface member 203. During operation, the valve island 10 and the functional component 20 are not prone to breakage, resulting in high connection strength, low connection difficulty, and convenient operation. Gaps are also not easily generated between the valve island 10 and the functional component 20, resulting in a low risk of heat exchange medium leakage, good safety, and easy integration of the heat exchange flow path module 100.

[0068] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figures 1-18 As shown, the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 are plugged into each other, and the outer peripheral surface of one of the first interface 11 and the inner peripheral surface of the other are sealed together by a sealing element 30. For example Figures 1-18 As shown, the second ports 21 of the heat exchanger 202 and the valve 201 are inserted into the multiple first ports 11 of the valve body in a one-to-one correspondence. The outer peripheral surface of the second port 21 is sealed to the inner peripheral surface of the first port 11 by a sealing element 30. For example, the first port 11 is inserted into the second port 21, and the outer peripheral surface of the first port 11 is sealed to the inner peripheral surface of the second port 21 by a sealing element 30.

[0069] There are multiple seals 30 at the connection between each first interface 11 and the corresponding second interface 21. The multiple seals 30 are arranged at intervals along the insertion direction of the first interface 11 and the second interface 21, which can realize multi-level sealing between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21, so that the sealing performance between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 is better, the risk of heat exchange medium leakage is lower, and the safety is better.

[0070] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1-18 As shown, the second interface 21 is inserted into the first interface 11. The outer circumferential surface of the second interface 21 is provided with multiple annular grooves, and multiple sealing elements 30 are located in the multiple annular grooves in a corresponding manner. The annular grooves can limit the sealing elements 30, making it less likely for the sealing elements 30 to move or even fall off, thus improving the sealing effect of the first interface 11 and the second interface 21.

[0071] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1-18 As shown, the second interface 21 is inserted into the first interface 11. The first interface 11 has a limiting step 111, and the end face of the second interface 21 abuts against the limiting step 111 to limit the insertion depth of the first interface 11 and the second interface 21. The limiting step 111 reduces the risk of relative movement between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 due to insufficient insertion depth, making the connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 more secure and allowing for smoother flow of the heat exchange medium between them. The limiting step 111 also reduces the risk of the seal 30 being severely compressed and failing due to excessive insertion depth, resulting in better sealing performance at the connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21.

[0072] The dimensions of the different seals 30 can be the same or different, which facilitates adaptation to different dimensions at the connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21. For example, in some embodiments, such as Figures 1-16As shown, at the connection point between the second interface 21 of valve 201 and the corresponding first interface 11, the diameters of the two seals 30 are different. Figures 1-13 and Figures 17-18 As shown, at each connection point of the second port 21 and the corresponding first port 11 of the heat exchanger 202, the two seals 30 have the same diameter.

[0073] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figures 1-16 As shown, the functional component 20 is a valve 201. The inner circumferential surface of the connecting part 12 is provided with an internal thread, and the outer circumferential surface of the connecting mating part 22 is provided with an external thread that can be threadedly connected to the connecting part 12, so that the connecting part 12 and the connecting mating part 22 are threadedly connected, which is convenient for installation and has high connection strength.

[0074] like Figure 7 As shown, valve component 201 includes valve body 231, which has a first valve chamber 2311 and a second valve chamber 2312. A valve port 2313 is provided between the first valve chamber 2311 and the second valve chamber 2312. The valve body 231 has a first valve port 2314 communicating with the first valve chamber 2311 and a second valve port 2315 communicating with the second valve chamber 2312. A sealing element 30 (e.g., ...) is provided between the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315. Figures 5-7 The sealing ring 30 located on the right side separates the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315. At least one of the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315 is in communication with the corresponding refrigerant flow path 101.

[0075] The valve port 213 is located between the first valve chamber 211 and the second valve chamber 212, that is, the refrigerant in the first valve chamber 211 needs to flow to the second valve chamber 212 through the valve port 213, or the refrigerant in the second valve chamber 212 needs to flow to the first valve chamber 211 through the valve port 213.

[0076] As can be seen, the valve island 10 is provided with a connecting portion 12, and the inner circumferential surface of the connecting portion 12 is provided with an internal thread. The valve element 201 is disposed on the corresponding connecting portion 12, so that at least a portion of the valve element 201 is located within the connecting portion 12. The connecting portion 12 communicates with at least one refrigerant flow channel 101, and at least one of the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315 communicates with the corresponding refrigerant flow channel 101. For example, the connecting portion 12 communicates with two refrigerant flow channels 101 respectively, the first valve port 2314 communicates with one refrigerant flow channel 101, and the second valve port 2315 communicates with the other refrigerant flow channel 101. Or, the connecting portion 12 communicates with one refrigerant flow channel 101, one of the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315 communicates with the refrigerant flow channel 101, and the other of the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315 communicates with other components.

[0077] Therefore, the refrigerant flow channel 101 connected to the valve 201 can be integrated with the valve 201, realizing the integrated setting of the valve 201 and the valve island 10. This makes the structure of the heat exchange flow path module 100 compact, facilitating the miniaturization and centralized setting of components. At the same time, the valve port of the valve 201 can be directly connected to the refrigerant flow channel 101 in the valve island 10. The valve 201 does not need to be connected to the refrigerant flow channel 101 in the valve island 10 through an external pipeline, reducing the use of traditional piping. This facilitates further improvement in the integration of the heat exchange flow path module 100, making the structure of the heat exchange flow path module 100 more compact. It can also reduce interference caused by the assembly of other structures in the air conditioner, helping to achieve the miniaturization of the overall structure of the air conditioner. This provides convenience for the installation of the air conditioner in a limited space and can reduce the material and labor costs of piping schemes in traditional air conditioners. Meanwhile, by reducing the use of traditional piping, it is easier to reduce the overall length of the flow channels in the air conditioner, which can reduce the refrigerant charge and flow resistance in the flow channels, thereby improving the performance of the air conditioner. Moreover, the integrated design can also improve production efficiency, reduce time and resource consumption in the production process, and further reduce manufacturing costs.

[0078] Furthermore, the connecting portion 12 is threadedly connected to the connecting mating portion 22 to make the installation position of the valve 201 more stable, and the valve 201 and the valve island 10 less likely to disengage. At least one of the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315 can stably communicate with the refrigerant flow channel 101, so that the valve 201 can maintain a stable working effect. For example, the valve port portion 2313 is used to throttle the refrigerant flowing through it. Through the above-mentioned threaded arrangement, the valve 201 can stably reduce the pressure and throttle the refrigerant flowing through it, which helps to improve the reliability of the heat exchange flow path module 100.

[0079] One of the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315 can serve as the inlet of the valve 201, and the other of the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315 can serve as the outlet of the valve 201. That is, the refrigerant can flow into the valve 201 from one of the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315, and after passing through the valve port portion 2313, it can flow out of the valve 201 from the other of the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315, so as to realize the normal operation of the valve 201.

[0080] For example, when the heat exchange flow path module 100 is used in an air conditioner, the flow direction of the refrigerant is different in cooling and heating modes. In different modes of the air conditioner, the flow direction of the refrigerant flowing through valve 201 changes, and the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315 can switch between the inlet and outlet of valve 201, respectively. Of course, the flow direction of the refrigerant flowing through valve 201 in the air conditioner can also remain constant.

[0081] Furthermore, the connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 is sealed by a sealant 30 to separate the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315. This prevents the refrigerant at the first valve port 2314 from leaking into the second valve port 2315 through the gap between the connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 and the valve 201. At the same time, the refrigerant at the second valve port 2315 is also less likely to leak into the first valve port 2314 through the gap between the connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 and the valve 201. This ensures that the refrigerant flowing from the first valve chamber 2311 to the second valve chamber 2312 needs to pass through the valve port 2313, or the refrigerant flowing from the second valve chamber 2312 to the first valve chamber 2311 needs to pass through the valve port 2313. This improves the problem of refrigerant cross-flow before and after the valve port 2313, allowing the valve 201 to maintain a stable working effect and improving the reliability of the heat exchange flow path module 100.

[0082] For example, the connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 can directly contact and seal with the sealant 30, or the connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 can indirectly seal with the sealant 30 through other components.

[0083] In some related technologies, when valve components are supplied, considering the convenience of connecting the valve components to other pipelines, an interface pipe is provided at the valve port. During air conditioner assembly, the interface pipe is connected to other pipelines or valve islands, resulting in a large number of connection points in the air conditioner. If the interface pipe is welded to other pipelines or to the valve island interface on the valve island, the number of weld points in the air conditioner will be large. However, in some embodiments of this application, no corresponding interface pipe is provided at the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315, so that the valve body 231 of the valve component 201 can smoothly fit into the first interface 11 and the connecting part 12, and the valve component 201 will not be unable to fit into the first interface 11 and the connecting part 12 due to interference from the interface pipe.

[0084] In some embodiments, the connecting mating part 22 is disposed within the connecting part 12, and the connecting mating part 22 is detachably connected to the bore wall of the connecting part 12. By providing the connecting part 12, a clear mounting point is provided for the valve component 201. By threading the connecting mating part 22 to the bore wall of the connecting part 12, the assembly of the valve component 201 and the valve island 10 is made more convenient, thus improving the assembly efficiency of the heat exchange flow path module 100. Furthermore, by fixing the connecting mating part 22 to the bore wall of the connecting part 12, a larger connection area is achieved between the connecting mating part 22 and the connecting part 12, which improves the connection strength between the valve component 201 and the valve island 10, thereby enhancing the reliability of the heat exchange flow path module 100.

[0085] Of course, in other embodiments of this application, the connecting mating part 22 may be provided outside the connecting part 12, and the connecting mating part 22 may be fixedly connected to the edge portion of the connecting part 12, so that the setting position of the connecting mating part 22 is more flexible.

[0086] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1-16 As shown, the second interface 21 communicates with the flow path inside the valve island 10 through the first interface 11. The second interface 21 is located between the connecting mating part 22 and the flow path inside the valve island 10, so that the heat exchange medium flowing in the flow path inside the valve island 10 is first sealed by the sealing element 30 at the connection of the first interface 11 and the second interface 21, reducing the risk of the heat exchange medium leaking to the connecting mating part 22 or even to the outside of the heat exchange flow path module 100, which is beneficial to improving the sealing performance of the heat exchange flow path module 100.

[0087] The connecting mating part 22 and the second interface 21 are arranged coaxially, which facilitates the connection of the connecting part 12 and the connecting mating part 22, and the connection of the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 in one step, reducing the installation steps of the valve component 201 on the valve island 10 and making operation convenient. For example, in some embodiments, such as Figures 1-16 As shown, during the process of connecting the valve island 10 and the valve component 201, the external thread of the connecting mating part 22 is threadedly connected to the internal thread of the connecting part 12. The two sealing elements 30 are deformed by the extrusion force between the inner wall surface of the first interface 11 and the outer wall surface of the second interface 21, so that the connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 is filled by the sealing element 30, so as to simultaneously meet the connection requirements and sealing requirements between the valve component 201 and the valve island 10.

[0088] For example Figure 7 As shown, relative to the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 at the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315, the connecting part 12 and the connecting mating part 22 are arranged adjacent to the orifice of the valve island 10. It can be understood that the orifice usually refers to the opening portion or edge area of ​​the hole. Through the arrangement of the connecting mating part 22, the connecting mating part 22 can play a certain blocking role for the refrigerant, that is, the refrigerant at the first valve port 2314 or the second valve port 2315 is not easy to leak to the outside of the valve island 10 through the gap between the connecting mating part 22 and the connecting part 12, thereby improving the external leakage problem of the valve component 201. With the arrangement of the sealing part 30, the flow path of the refrigerant is made clearer, which facilitates the improvement of the working effect of the valve component 201 and helps to improve the reliability of the heat exchange flow path module 100.

[0089] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1-16 As shown, there are multiple seals 30, and a seal 30 is provided between the first valve port 2314 and the connecting part 12 (e.g., Figures 5-7A sealing ring 30 located on the left side separates the first valve port 2314 from the internal space of the connecting portion 12. Exemplarily, the first valve port 2314 is located axially closer to the connecting mating portion 22 than the second valve port 2315.

[0090] As can be seen, by providing a sealing ring 30 between the first valve port 2314 and the connecting part 12, even if there is a certain gap between the connecting mating part 22 and the hole wall of the connecting part 12, which could allow refrigerant to leak from the gap between the connecting mating part 22 and the connecting part 12 to the outside of the valve island 10, the sealing ring 30 can prevent the refrigerant at the first valve port 2314 from flowing to the hole of the connecting part 12, thereby reducing the possibility of refrigerant leakage to the outside of the valve island 10 and making it less likely to affect the normal operation of other components. Therefore, the connection method between the connecting mating part 22 and the hole wall of the connecting part 12 is also somewhat selective due to the setting of the sealing ring 30. In other words, due to the setting of the sealing ring 30, the sealing requirements that can be achieved by the connection method between the connecting mating part 22 and the hole wall of the connecting part 12 can be appropriately reduced. At the same time, in conjunction with the sealing element 30 between the first valve port 2314 and the second valve port 2315, the refrigerant flow direction in the valve 201 is made clearer, which facilitates the improvement of the working effect of the valve 201 and helps to improve the reliability of the valve island assembly 100.

[0091] In some embodiments, such as Figure 15 and Figure 19 As shown, valve component 201 is also provided with two fastening mounting holes 2316, so that the user can use the fastening mounting holes 2316 to fix valve component 201 to external tooling, and use the external tooling to screw valve component 201 into valve island 10, which is convenient for operation. In some embodiments, such as Figure 14 As shown, valve 201 is also provided with coil 232.

[0092] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figures 1-13 , Figures 17-18 and Figure 20 As shown, functional component 20 is a heat exchanger 202, which is provided with a mounting plate 242, and the mounting plate 242 is provided with a connecting mating part 22. The connecting part 12 is a first through hole 121, and the connecting mating part 22 is a second through hole 221. Fasteners 40 pass through the first through hole 121 and the second through hole 221 to connect the connecting part 12 and the connecting mating part 22. By fastening the first through hole 121 of the valve island 10 and the second through hole 221 of the mounting plate 242 with fasteners 40, the valve island 10 and the heat exchanger 202 can be firmly connected, improving the connection strength between the valve island 10 and the heat exchanger 202, and facilitating operation.

[0093] Fastener 40 may include one or more of bolts, screws, studs, nuts, washers, etc. For example, in some specific embodiments, such as Figures 1-4As shown, the fastener 40 includes a bolt 41, a nut 43 and two washers 42. The bolt 41 passes through the first through hole 121, the second through hole 221 and the two washers 42 from top to bottom and is then threadedly fastened to the nut 43 on the lower side of the mounting plate 242. The connection strength is high and the operation is convenient.

[0094] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1-13 , Figures 17-18 and Figure 20 As shown, the heat exchanger 202 includes a heat exchange body 241, a second through hole 221 penetrating a mounting plate 242, and the mounting plate 242 is located on one side of the heat exchange body 241 along the through direction of the second through hole 221, for example... Figures 1-8 The mounting plate 242 shown is located on the upper side of the heat exchange body 241. In the width direction of the heat exchange body 241 (e.g.) Figures 1-8 In the front-to-back direction shown, the mounting plate 242 has a protrusion that protrudes from the heat exchange body 241, and a second through hole 221 is formed on the protrusion, so that the fastener 40 is less likely to interfere with the heat exchange body 241 during the process of installing the fastener 40 in the first through hole 121 and the second through hole 221 along the through direction, and the installation operation of the fastener 40 is more convenient.

[0095] For example, in some embodiments, such as Figures 1-8 As shown, the second through hole 221 penetrates the mounting plate 242 in the vertical direction, allowing the fastener 40 to pass through the first through hole 121 and the second through hole 221 in the vertical direction. The heat exchange body 241 has protrusions on both its front and rear sides, with the second through hole 221 formed on these protrusions. The heat exchange body 241 is located between these two protrusions, making it less likely for the fastener 40 to interfere with the heat exchange body 241 during its vertical insertion through the first through hole 121 and the second through hole 221, thus facilitating the installation of the fastener 40.

[0096] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1-13 , Figures 17-18 and Figure 20 As shown, the angle between the insertion direction of the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 and the through direction of the second through hole 221 is not equal to 90°. For example, the insertion direction of the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 is parallel or inclined to the through direction of the second through hole 221. In the process of locking the connection part 12 and the connection mating part 22 by the fastener 40, a force along the insertion direction can be applied to the first interface 11 and the second interface 21, making the sealing connection between the heat exchanger 202 and the valve island 10 easier.

[0097] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1-13 , Figures 17-18 and Figure 20As shown, there are two protrusions, located on opposite sides of the heat exchanger body 241 in the width direction. There are multiple connecting mating parts 22, with each protrusion having at least one connecting mating part 22. The presence of multiple connecting mating parts 22 means there are multiple connecting parts 12. The one-to-one connection between multiple connecting parts 12 and multiple connecting mating parts 22 improves the connection strength between the heat exchanger 202 and the valve island 10. Furthermore, the location of multiple connecting mating parts 22 on the protrusions minimizes positional interference between the fastener 40 and the heat exchanger body 241 during installation, facilitating installation.

[0098] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1-13 , Figures 17-18 and Figure 20 As shown, the mounting plate 242 is provided with at least one clearance hole 2421. Each second interface 21 passes through a clearance hole 2421 to connect with the first interface 11, so that the mounting plate 242 can be set close to the first interface 11, so that the connection mating part 22 of the heat exchanger 202 is closer to the second interface 21. Pressure can be applied to the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 through the tight connection between the connection part 12 and the connection mating part 22, so that the connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 is tighter, and the sealing effect of the seal 30 at the connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21 is better.

[0099] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1-13 , Figures 17-18 and Figure 20 As shown, the mounting plate 242 is fixedly connected to the end plate 2413 of the heat exchanger 202, and the second interface 21 is provided on the mounting plate 242. For example, the mounting plate 242 and the end plate 2413 are separately formed and then connected as a whole by welding, riveting, or one or more combinations of other fixed connection directions. In other embodiments, the mounting plate 242 and the end plate 2413 are integrally formed, and the second interface 21 is provided on the mounting plate 242.

[0100] The mounting plate 242 is fixedly connected to the end plate 2413 or is an integrally formed part, and the second interface 21 is provided on the mounting plate 242, so that the mounting plate 242, the second interface 21 and the end plate 2413 are not easily separated. The connecting mating part 22 is provided on the mounting plate 242, and the connecting mating part 22 is detachably connected to the connecting part 12 of the valve island 10. The mounting plate 242 can realize the detachable connection between the valve island 10 and the end plate 2413, and the detachable communication between the first interface 11 and the second interface 21, which is beneficial to improve the overall connection strength and communication sealing of the valve island 10 and the heat exchanger 202.

[0101] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1-8 and Figures 17-18As shown, the heat exchange body 241 includes a base plate 2411, an end plate 2413, and a heat exchange unit 2412 disposed between the base plate 2411 and the end plate 2413. The heat exchange unit 2412 contains a first heat exchange channel (not shown) and a second heat exchange channel (not shown). The spaces occupied by the first and second heat exchange channels do not overlap, and the first and second heat exchange channels are independent of each other. The end plate 2413 has a first heat exchange interface 2451, a second heat exchange interface 2452, a third heat exchange interface 2461, and a fourth heat exchange interface 2462. The first and second heat exchange interfaces 2451 and 2452 are respectively located at both ends of the first heat exchange channel, and the third and fourth heat exchange interfaces 2461 and 2462 are respectively located at both ends of the second heat exchange channel. Each of the first and third heat exchange interfaces 2451 defines a second interface 21. The heat exchange medium can be introduced into or flow out of the first heat exchange channel through the first heat exchange port 2451 and the second heat exchange port 2452, and the heat exchange medium can be introduced into or flow out of the second heat exchange channel through the third heat exchange port 2461 and the fourth heat exchange port 2462, so as to realize heat exchange between the heat exchange medium in the first heat exchange channel and the second heat exchange channel.

[0102] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1-5 and Figures 17-18 As shown, the first heat exchange channel is connected to a second mounting base 51 on the outside of the second heat exchange interface 2452. The second mounting base 51 can be used to install a filter element to filter the heat exchange medium flowing through the heat exchanger 202, so that the heat exchanger 202 is less likely to be blocked.

[0103] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1-16 As shown, the multiple functional components 20 include two valve members 201. The valve island 10 includes two mounting portions 13 for mounting the valve members 201. The mounting portions 13 define a first interface 11 and a connecting portion 12. The mounting portions 13 form a valve cavity 131, and at least a portion of the valve member 201 is mounted in the valve cavity 131. This allows the second interface 21 and the connecting mating portion 22 of the valve member 201 to extend into the valve cavity 131, which helps to increase the connection area between the valve island 10 and the valve member 201 and to allow the valve island 10 to enclose the second interface 21 and the connecting mating portion 22 of the valve member 201, thereby improving the connection strength and sealing performance between the valve island 10 and the valve member 201.

[0104] The openings of the two valve chambers 131 for mounting the valve component 201 are located on the same side of the valve island 10, for example... Figures 1-13 The openings of the two valve chambers 131 shown are located on the left side of the valve island 10, which allows two valve components 201 to be installed on the same side of the valve island 10, making installation and operation more convenient.

[0105] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1-13As shown, the valve island 10 includes a first mounting base 14 that communicates with the internal flow path of the valve island 10. The first mounting base 14 can be used to install a filter element to filter the heat exchange medium flowing through the valve island 10, so that the valve island 10 is less prone to clogging.

[0106] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1-5 As shown, the heat exchange flow path module 100 includes a connecting pipe 52, which can communicate with the compressor and other components in the air conditioner, enabling the heat exchange flow path module 100 to communicate with other components in the air conditioner to circulate the heat exchange medium. The shape and size of different connecting pipes 52 can be different.

[0107] For example, in some embodiments, such as Figures 1-5 As shown, a first connecting pipe 521 and a second connecting pipe 522 are connected sequentially at the first mounting base 14. The first connecting pipe 521 is directly connected to the first mounting base 14 and has a constricted design. The second connecting pipe 522 is indirectly connected to the first mounting base 14 through the first connecting pipe 521. The second connecting pipe 522 has a smaller inner diameter and its end extends into the first connecting pipe 521 and abuts against its inner wall surface for fixation, realizing a variable diameter connection. It has multiple functions and high connection strength.

[0108] The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a heat exchange flow path module 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The air conditioner can be a multi-split system, that is, an air conditioner in which one outdoor unit is connected to multiple indoor units. The air conditioner can also be of other types, as long as it includes the heat exchange flow path module 100, and the air conditioner can partially or completely regulate the temperature, humidity, flow rate and cleanliness of the air.

[0109] Since the heat exchange flow path module 100 according to the present utility model embodiment has the above-mentioned beneficial technical effects, the air conditioner according to the present utility model embodiment, through the detachable connection of the connecting part 12 and the connecting mating part 22, and the sealing connection of the sealing member 30 at the connection of the first interface 11 and the second interface 21, can realize the tight connection and sealing connection between the valve island 10 and each functional component 20 such as the valve 201, heat exchanger 202, and interface member 203. During the operation, the valve island 10 and the functional component 20 are not prone to breakage, resulting in high connection strength, low connection difficulty, and convenient operation between the valve island 10 and the functional component 20. The gaps between the valve island 10 and the functional component 20 are also not prone to occur, resulting in low risk of heat exchange medium leakage, good safety, and easy integration of the heat exchange flow path module 100.

[0110] The heat exchange flow path module 100 and other components and operations of the air conditioner according to the embodiments of this utility model are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0111] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" 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; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0112] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "embodiment," "specific embodiment," and "example" indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0113] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A heat exchange flow path module, characterized in that, include: A valve island, the valve island having a refrigerant flow path and a first interface communicating with the refrigerant flow path, the valve island having a connecting part; The functional component has a second interface and a connecting mating part. The connecting part and the connecting mating part are detachably connected. The first interface is connected to the second interface, and the functional component is in communication with the valve island. A sealing element is used to seal the connection between the first interface and the second interface.

2. The heat exchange flow path module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The functional component is at least one of valves, heat exchangers, and interface components.

3. The heat exchange flow path module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first interface and the second interface are plugged into each other. The outer peripheral surface of one of the first interface and the inner peripheral surface of the other are connected by the sealing element. There are multiple sealing elements, which are arranged at intervals along the plugging direction of the first interface and the second interface.

4. The heat exchange flow path module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second interface is inserted into the first interface. The outer peripheral surface of the second interface is provided with multiple annular grooves, and the multiple sealing elements are located in the multiple annular grooves in a corresponding manner.

5. The heat exchange flow path module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second interface is inserted into the first interface, and the first interface is provided with a limiting step, and the end face of the second interface abuts against the limiting step.

6. The heat exchange flow path module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The functional component is a valve; the inner circumferential surface of the connecting part is provided with an internal thread; and the outer circumferential surface of the connecting mating part is provided with an external thread suitable for threaded connection with the connecting part. The valve includes a valve body, which has a first valve chamber and a second valve chamber. A valve port is provided between the first valve chamber and the second valve chamber. The valve body has a first valve port communicating with the first valve chamber and a second valve port communicating with the second valve chamber. A sealing element is provided between the first valve port and the second valve port to separate the first valve port and the second valve port. At least one of the first valve port and the second valve port is in communication with the corresponding refrigerant flow path.

7. The heat exchange flow path module according to claim 6, characterized in that, There are multiple sealing elements, and the sealing element is provided between the first valve port and the connecting part to separate the internal space of the first valve port and the connecting part.

8. The heat exchange flow path module according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The functional component is a heat exchanger, which is provided with a mounting plate. The mounting plate is provided with a connecting and mating part. The connecting part is a first through hole and a second through hole. Fasteners are inserted through the first through hole and the second through hole to connect the connecting part and the connecting and mating part.

9. The heat exchange flow path module according to claim 8, characterized in that, The heat exchanger includes a heat exchange body, the second through hole penetrates the mounting plate, the mounting plate is located on one side of the heat exchange body along the penetration direction of the second through hole, and in the width direction of the heat exchange body, the mounting plate has a protrusion protruding from the heat exchange body, and the second through hole is formed in the protrusion.

10. The heat exchange flow path module according to claim 9, characterized in that, There are two protrusions, which are located on both sides of the width direction of the heat exchange body. There are multiple connecting parts, and each of the two protrusions is provided with a connecting part.

11. The heat exchange flow path module according to claim 10, characterized in that, The mounting plate is provided with a clearance hole, and the second interface passes through the clearance hole to connect with the first interface; and / or, the mounting plate is fixedly connected to the end plate of the heat exchanger or is an integrally formed part, and the second interface is provided on the mounting plate.

12. The heat exchange flow path module according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The functional component is an interface component, which includes a connecting plate and a second interface disposed on the connecting plate. The interface component has a connection path, a first port and a second port. The first port is formed on the second interface and communicates with the connection path. The connection path connects the second port and the first port. The first port communicates with the refrigerant flow path through the first interface. The second port communicates with the accessories of the air conditioner through a connecting pipe.

13. An air conditioner, characterized in that, Includes the heat exchange flow path module according to any one of claims 1-12.

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