Heat exchanger, thermal management system, indoor unit, outdoor unit and air conditioner

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a heat exchange device, a thermal management system, an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, and an air conditioner. The heat exchange device includes a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, connecting pipes, and a gas-liquid regulating component. The connecting pipes are connected to both the first heat exchanger and the gas-liquid regulating component, and the gas-liquid regulating component is connected to the second heat exchanger. The first heat exchanger is optionally connected to the gas-liquid regulating component. This configuration allows for the selective mixing of the heat exchange medium from the first heat exchanger and the heat exchange medium from the connecting pipes using the gas-liquid regulating component, thereby adjusting the heat transfer coefficient of the mixed heat exchange medium and improving the heat exchange performance of the heat exchange device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of air conditioning equipment technology, specifically to a heat exchange device, a thermal management system, an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, and an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] Air conditioning equipment typically includes a heat exchanger, which is used to supply the flow of heat exchange medium and achieve cooling or heating through the heat exchange medium. In related technologies, the heat exchange performance of heat exchangers needs to be improved. Utility Model Content

[0003] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a heat exchange device, a thermal management system, an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, and an air conditioner that can improve heat exchange performance and at least partially solve the aforementioned technical problems.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, a first aspect of this disclosure provides a heat exchange apparatus, comprising: First heat exchanger; Second heat exchanger; Connecting pipes; and A gas-liquid regulating component, wherein the connecting pipeline is connected to the first heat exchanger and the gas-liquid regulating component respectively, the gas-liquid regulating component is connected to the second heat exchanger, and the first heat exchanger is optionally connected to the gas-liquid regulating component.

[0005] In the above embodiments, the first heat exchanger may be selectively connected to a gas-liquid regulating element. For example, the gas-liquid regulating element can be selectively used to mix the heat exchange medium from the first heat exchanger and the heat exchange medium from the connecting pipe to adjust the heat transfer coefficient of the mixed heat exchange medium and improve the heat exchange performance of the heat exchange device. For example, when the heat exchange device is used as a condenser, the gaseous heat exchange medium from the connecting pipe and the liquid heat exchange medium from the first heat exchanger, after being mixed in the gas-liquid regulating element, can be used to adjust the dryness of the heat exchange medium (e.g., refrigerant) to adjust the heat transfer coefficient of the refrigerant and optimize the heat exchange performance of the heat exchange device.

[0006] In some possible implementations, the gas-liquid regulator is used to mix the gaseous heat exchange medium from the connecting pipe and the liquid heat exchange medium from the first heat exchanger. This configuration allows the gas-liquid regulator to adjust the dryness of the heat exchange medium (e.g., refrigerant) in the gas-liquid regulator when the heat exchange device is used as a condenser, thereby adjusting the heat transfer coefficient of the refrigerant to a more favorable, optimal, or near-optimal state, thus optimizing the heat exchange performance of the heat exchange device. For example, the reduced dryness of the gaseous heat exchange medium after mixing in the gas-liquid regulator improves and enhances the heat exchange effect after the mixed heat exchange medium enters the second heat exchanger.

[0007] In some possible implementations, a first flow path is provided between the first heat exchanger and the gas-liquid regulating element, and a control valve for controlling the on / off state is provided on the first flow path. This configuration allows for selective connection between the first heat exchanger and the gas-liquid regulating element by operating the control valve to control the on / off state of the first flow path.

[0008] In some possible implementations, the height of the connection between the first heat exchanger and the first flow path is higher than the height of the connection between the first flow path and the gas-liquid regulating element. When the heat exchange device is used as a condenser, the control valve on the first flow path is open, allowing the liquid heat exchange medium formed in the first heat exchanger to flow into the gas-liquid regulating element through the first flow path. Since the height of the connection between the first heat exchanger and the first flow path is higher than the connection between the first flow path and the gas-liquid regulating element, the liquid heat exchange medium in the first heat exchanger can flow in the first flow path by its own gravity, allowing it to enter the gas-liquid regulating element more smoothly.

[0009] In some possible implementations, the heat exchange device further includes a connecting flow path that communicates with the first flow path, the connection point of which is located between the control valve and the first heat exchanger. With this configuration, when the heat exchange device is used as an evaporator and the control valve is closed, the liquid phase heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path can be directly introduced into the first heat exchanger, where it is evaporated to form a gas phase heat exchange medium, which is then discharged through the connecting pipe.

[0010] In some possible implementations, a control structure for controlling the flow state of the heat exchange medium is provided in the connecting flow path. Thus, the flow state of the heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path can be controlled by the control structure, thereby enabling the heat exchange device to be in different flow states when used as a condenser or an evaporator.

[0011] In some possible implementations, the control structure includes a valve that controls the opening and closing of the connecting flow path, thereby allowing the heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path to be in different flow states. Furthermore, controlling the opening and closing of the connecting flow path via the valve is simple to operate; and / or, The control structure includes a check valve, which is configured to allow the heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path to flow unidirectionally into the first heat exchanger. This ensures that when the heat exchanger is used as a condenser, the liquid phase heat exchange medium formed in the first heat exchanger does not directly exit the heat exchanger through the connecting flow path. When the heat exchanger is used as an evaporator, the heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path can flow unidirectionally into the first heat exchanger. This allows the heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path to be in different flow states when the heat exchanger is used as a condenser or an evaporator. Furthermore, the control structure includes a check valve, which allows the flow state of the heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path to be planned during the assembly of the heat exchanger, eliminating the need to control the check valve during subsequent use, thus simplifying the control steps and saving labor costs.

[0012] In some possible implementations, the connecting flow path includes a main pipe section, a first branch pipe section, and a second branch pipe section. The first branch pipe section connects the first flow path and the main pipe section, and the second branch pipe section connects the second heat exchanger and the main pipe section. The control structure is disposed on the first branch pipe section. With this configuration, when the heat exchange device is used as an evaporator, the liquid phase heat exchange medium in the main pipe section can flow into the first heat exchanger through the first branch pipe section, and the liquid phase heat exchange medium in the main pipe section can flow into the second heat exchanger through the second branch pipe section. This allows the liquid phase heat exchange medium entering the heat exchange device through the connecting flow path to simultaneously exchange heat through the first and second heat exchangers, resulting in higher heat exchange efficiency when the heat exchange device is used as an evaporator.

[0013] In some possible implementations, the second heat exchanger includes at least one heat exchange flow path, a first flow port of which is connected to the gas-liquid regulating element, and a second flow port of which is connected to the second branch pipe section. The heat exchange flow path can be used for heat exchange of a heat exchange medium introduced into the heat exchange flow path from the gas-liquid regulating element, or it can be used for heat exchange of a heat exchange medium introduced into the heat exchange flow path from the second branch pipe section.

[0014] In some possible implementations, the first heat exchanger includes at least one heat exchange channel, a first inlet and outlet of which are connected to the connecting pipe, and a second inlet and outlet of which are connected to the first flow path. This configuration allows the heat exchange channel to be used for heat exchange when the heat exchange device is used as a condenser, and for heat exchange of the heat exchange medium introduced into the heat exchange channel through the connecting pipe; when the heat exchange device is used as an evaporator, the heat exchange channel can be used for heat exchange of the heat exchange medium introduced into the heat exchange channel through the first flow path from the first branch pipe section.

[0015] In some possible implementations, the first heat exchanger includes a manifold connecting the connecting pipe and the at least one heat exchange channel. The manifold can be used to collect the gaseous heat exchange medium flowing from the connecting pipe into the manifold before it flows into the heat exchange channel, achieving a relatively uniform flow distribution; or the manifold can be used to collect the heat exchange medium flowing from the heat exchange channel into the manifold before it flows into the connecting pipe, making the piping of the heat exchange device simple and reliable.

[0016] In some possible implementations, the first heat exchanger includes heat exchange channels, and the second heat exchanger includes heat exchange paths. The number of heat exchange channels is less than or equal to the number of heat exchange paths. When the heat exchange device is used as a condenser, the first heat exchanger mainly condenses the gaseous heat exchange medium introduced through the connecting pipe into a liquid heat exchange medium, which is then introduced into a gas-liquid regulating element for mixing with the gaseous heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating element, thereby regulating the dryness of the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating element. The second heat exchanger is the main heat exchange structure of the heat exchange device. The second heat exchanger mainly condenses the gaseous heat exchange medium introduced into the heat exchange device through the connecting pipe into a liquid heat exchange medium, which is then discharged through the connecting path. Therefore, when the number of heat exchange channels is less than or equal to the number of heat exchange paths, the number of heat exchange paths undertaking the main condensation function of the heat exchange device is greater, and the condensation efficiency of the heat exchange device is higher, thereby further improving the heat exchange performance of the heat exchange device.

[0017] In some possible implementations, the air-facing area of ​​the first heat exchanger is less than or equal to the air-facing area of ​​the second heat exchanger. When the heat exchange device is used as a condenser, the second heat exchanger mainly condenses the gaseous heat exchange medium introduced into the heat exchange device through the connecting pipe into a liquid heat exchange medium, which is then discharged through the connecting flow path. The second heat exchanger is the main heat exchange structure of the heat exchange device. When the air-facing area of ​​the first heat exchanger is less than or equal to the air-facing area of ​​the second heat exchanger, the air-facing area of ​​the second heat exchanger can be made large enough, thereby making the area of ​​the second heat exchanger for heat exchange with the external environment large enough, allowing more air to flow through the second heat exchanger, thereby further improving the heat exchange efficiency of the second heat exchanger.

[0018] In some possible implementations, the first heat exchanger is located above the second heat exchanger, and when the heat exchange device is used as a condenser, the liquid heat exchange medium condensed in the first heat exchanger can smoothly enter the gas-liquid regulating element with the aid of its own gravity; and / or, The first heat exchanger is located above the gas-liquid regulating element, such that the height of the connection between the first heat exchanger and the first flow path is higher than the height of the connection between the first flow path and the gas-liquid regulating element. When the heat exchange device is used as a condenser, the liquid heat exchange medium formed by condensation in the first heat exchanger can smoothly enter the gas-liquid regulating element with the assistance of its own gravity.

[0019] In some possible implementations, the gas-liquid regulating element is part of the second heat exchanger. This arrangement allows for a more compact structure between the gas-liquid regulating element and the heat exchange flow path, reducing the space occupied by the heat exchange device. Furthermore, having the gas-liquid regulating element as part of the second heat exchanger also ensures a more stable connection between the gas-liquid regulating element and the heat exchange flow path. Additionally, since the gas-liquid regulating element is part of the second heat exchanger, the mixing of the gas-phase and liquid-phase heat exchange media can be achieved using the second heat exchanger's own structure, reducing the need for additional components.

[0020] In some possible implementations, the second heat exchanger includes a gas collecting pipe, which is the gas-liquid regulating element, and has a simple structure and low cost.

[0021] In some possible implementations, the second heat exchanger includes at least one heat exchange flow path connected to the gas-liquid regulating element, the heat exchange flow path being capable of being used for heat exchange of the heat exchange medium introduced into the second heat exchanger.

[0022] In some possible implementations, the gas-liquid regulating element is provided with at least two connecting ports that connect the connecting pipeline, the first heat exchanger, and the heat exchange flow path.

[0023] In some possible implementations, the at least two connection ports include a first connection port, a second connection port, and a third connection port. The first connection port is selectively connected to the first heat exchanger, the second connection port is connected to the heat exchange flow path, and the third connection port is connected to the connecting pipeline. The gas-liquid regulating element is connected to the heat exchange flow path, the connecting pipeline, and optionally to the first heat exchanger through independent connection ports, so as to facilitate independent management of the heat exchange medium flowing in the pipelines connected to the first connection port, the second connection port, and the third connection port.

[0024] In some possible implementations, the first connection port is positioned higher than the third connection port. This arrangement allows the liquid heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating element through the first connection port to fall downwards under gravity, enabling it to fully contact and mix with the gas heat exchange medium introduced through the third connection port, which is lower than the first connection port; or... The first connecting port is positioned higher than the second and third connecting ports. When the heat exchange device is used as a condenser, the liquid heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating element through the first connecting port falls downwards under the influence of gravity, facilitating sufficient contact and mixing with the gas heat exchange medium introduced through the third connecting port, which is lower than the first connecting port; or... The third connecting port is positioned higher than the first connecting port. When the heat exchange device is used as a condenser, the gaseous heat exchange medium in the connecting pipe enters the gas-liquid regulating element through the third connecting port, while the liquid heat exchange medium formed in the first heat exchanger enters the gas-liquid regulating element through the first connecting port. The gaseous and liquid heat exchange media mix in the gas-liquid regulating element to reduce the dryness of the heat exchange medium. This results in higher heat exchange efficiency when the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating element is introduced into the heat exchange flow path of the second heat exchanger for condensation and heat release; or... The third connecting port is positioned higher than the first and second connecting ports. This arrangement ensures that the third connecting port, used for the flow of the gaseous heat exchange medium, is higher than the first and second connecting ports. When the heat exchange device is used as an evaporator, it facilitates the exit of the gaseous heat exchange medium that enters the gas-liquid regulating element from the heat exchange flow path of the second heat exchanger through the third connecting port; or... The second connection port is positioned higher than the first connection port, and the first connection port may be positioned higher than the third connection port. When the heat exchange device is used as a condenser, this facilitates sufficient contact and mixing between the liquid phase heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating element through the first connection port and the gas phase heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating element through the third connection port. It also facilitates thorough mixing of the gas phase and liquid phase heat exchange media before they are introduced into the heat exchange flow path through the second connection port for condensation; or... The second connection port is positioned higher than the first and third connection ports. The first connection port can be positioned higher than the third connection port. When the heat exchange device is used as a condenser, this facilitates sufficient contact and mixing between the liquid heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating element through the first connection port and the gas heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating element through the third connection port. Furthermore, it allows for thorough mixing of the gas and liquid heat exchange media before they are introduced into the heat exchange flow path through the second connection port for condensation.

[0025] In some possible implementations, the number of the second connection ports corresponds to the number of the heat exchange flow paths. The second connection ports and the heat exchange flow paths can be connected in a one-to-one or one-to-many manner. The number of the second connection ports can be one or more, and an appropriate correspondence can be selected according to actual needs and layout space.

[0026] In some possible implementations, the at least two connections include a first port and a second port, the first port being connected to the heat exchange flow path, and the second port being connected to the connecting pipe and optionally connected to the first heat exchanger.

[0027] In some possible implementations, the number of the second heat exchanger and the gas-liquid regulating element is the same, and there are one or more of them. Each gas-liquid regulating element is connected to the heat exchange flow path of the corresponding second heat exchanger through its own second communication port. This arrangement can further optimize the heat exchange performance of the heat exchange device.

[0028] In some possible implementations, the first heat exchanger may be selectively connected to a plurality of the gas-liquid regulating elements. When the heat exchange device is used as a condenser, the plurality of gas-liquid regulating elements can be used for mixing the gas phase heat exchange medium and the liquid phase heat exchange medium to improve the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchange medium.

[0029] In some possible implementations, the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are constructed as a single unit, allowing for a more compact structure and reducing the space occupied by the heat exchange device. Furthermore, integrating the first and second heat exchangers as a single unit also ensures the stability of the connection between them; or, The first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are separate units.

[0030] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a thermal management system, including a compressor, a reversing valve, a first heat exchange device, and a second heat exchange device. The heat exchange medium flowing out of the outlet of the compressor selectively flows through the first heat exchange device and then through the second heat exchange device via the reversing valve, or selectively flows through the second heat exchange device and then through the first heat exchange device. Wherein, at least one of the first heat exchange device and the second heat exchange device is a heat exchange device as described in any one of the first aspects of this disclosure.

[0031] In some possible implementations, the first heat exchanger is an outdoor heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger is an indoor heat exchanger, so that the indoor temperature can be regulated by the thermal management system.

[0032] In some possible implementations, the reversing valve is a four-way valve and has a first valve port, a second valve port, a third valve port, and a fourth valve port; the first valve port is adapted to be connected to the outlet of the compressor, the second valve port is adapted to be connected to the inlet of the compressor; the third valve port is adapted to be connected to the first heat exchange device, and the fourth valve port is adapted to be connected to the second heat exchange device.

[0033] In some possible implementations, the thermal management system further includes a throttling device connected between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger for throttling and depressurizing the liquid heat exchange medium flowing between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

[0034] A third aspect of this disclosure provides an indoor unit including a heat exchange device as provided in the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0035] This disclosure provides a fourth aspect of an outdoor unit, including a heat exchange device as provided in the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0036] The fifth aspect of this disclosure provides an air conditioner that includes a heat exchange device as provided in the first aspect of this disclosure, or a thermal management system as provided in the second aspect of this disclosure, or an outdoor unit as provided in the third aspect of this disclosure, or an indoor unit as provided in the fourth aspect of this disclosure, or an outdoor unit as provided in the fifth aspect of this disclosure.

[0037] Other features and advantages of this disclosure will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0038] The accompanying drawings are provided to further illustrate the present disclosure and form part of the specification. They are used together with the following detailed description to explain the present disclosure, but do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heat exchange device provided in some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure; wherein, the arrows on the pipelines in the figure indicate the flow direction of the heat exchange medium; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heat exchange device provided in some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure; wherein, the arrows on the pipelines in the figure indicate the flow direction of the heat exchange medium. Figure 2 The flow direction of the heat exchange medium and Figure 1 The differences in; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heat exchange device provided in some other exemplary embodiments of this disclosure; wherein, the arrows on the pipelines in the figure indicate the flow direction of the heat exchange medium; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a thermal management system provided in some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the first heat exchange device is used as a condenser and the second heat exchange device is used as an evaporator; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a thermal management system provided in some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, wherein the first heat exchange device is used as an evaporator and the second heat exchange device is used as a condenser.

[0039] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 10-First heat exchanger; 11-Heat exchange channel; 111-First inlet / outlet; 112-Second inlet / outlet; 20-Second heat exchanger; 21-Heat exchange flow path; 211-First flow port; 212-Second flow port; 30-Connecting pipe; 40-Gas-liquid regulating component; 400-Gas collecting pipe; 41-Connecting port; 411-First connecting port; 412-Second connecting port; 413-Third connecting port; 42-Cavity; 50-Control valve; 51-Solenoid valve; 60-Connecting flow path; 61-First branch pipe section; 62-Second branch pipe section; 63-Main Pipe section; 70-Control structure; 71-Check valve; 711-One-way valve; 80-First flow path; 90-Manifold; 91-Pipe body; 92-Interface; 100-Compressor; 200-Reversing valve; 2000-Four-way valve; 201-First valve port; 202-Second valve port; 203-Third valve port; 204-Fourth valve port; 300-Gas-liquid separator; 500-First heat exchanger; 600-Throttling device; 700-Second heat exchanger; 800-Manifold; 1000-Heat exchanger; 3000-Thermal management system. Detailed Implementation

[0040] The specific embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustration and explanation only and are not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0041] In this disclosure, an X-direction is defined for the heat exchanger, where X represents the height direction of the heat exchanger in its operating state; the direction indicated by the arrow is upward, and vice versa. Unless otherwise stated, directional terms such as "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner or outer contour relative to the component or structure itself. Furthermore, it should be noted that terms such as "first" and "second" are used to distinguish one element from another and do not indicate sequence or importance. Additionally, in the description with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals in different drawings denote the same element.

[0042] The first aspect of this disclosure provides a heat exchange device 1000, such as... Figures 1 to 3 As shown, it includes a first heat exchanger 10, a second heat exchanger 20, a connecting pipe 30, and a gas-liquid regulating component 40. The connecting pipe 30 is connected to the first heat exchanger 10 and the gas-liquid regulating component 40, the gas-liquid regulating component 40 is connected to the second heat exchanger 20, and the first heat exchanger 10 is optionally connected to the gas-liquid regulating component 40.

[0043] In the above embodiments, the first heat exchanger 10 and the second heat exchanger 20 can be used to supply heat exchange medium. When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, a gaseous heat exchange medium can be introduced into the first heat exchanger 10 and the gas-liquid regulating element 40 through the connecting pipe 30. The gaseous heat exchange medium introduced into the first heat exchanger 10 is condensed into a liquid heat exchange medium. The first heat exchanger 10 can be connected to the gas-liquid regulating element 40. The liquid heat exchange medium in the first heat exchanger 10 can be introduced into the gas-liquid regulating element 40. The gaseous heat exchange medium and the liquid heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating element 40 are mixed to adjust the dryness of the heat exchange medium. The mixed gas-liquid regulating element 40 is introduced into the second heat exchanger 20 for condensation, which can improve the condensation performance of the second heat exchanger 20, thereby improving the heat exchange performance of the heat exchange device 1000. When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as an evaporator, the first heat exchanger 10 and the gas-liquid regulating element 40 are not directly connected. The liquid phase heat exchange medium can exchange heat through the first heat exchanger 10 and the second heat exchanger 20 respectively, which reduces the length of the heat exchange path, improves the heat exchange efficiency, and thus improves the heat exchange performance of the heat exchange device 1000.

[0044] As described above, the first heat exchanger 10 can be selectively connected to the gas-liquid regulating member 40. For example, the gas-liquid regulating member 40 can be selectively used to mix the heat exchange medium from the first heat exchanger 10 and the heat exchange medium from the connecting pipe 30 to adjust the heat transfer coefficient of the mixed heat exchange medium and improve the heat exchange performance of the heat exchange device 1000. For example, when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, the mixture of the gas phase heat exchange medium from the connecting pipe 30 and the liquid phase heat exchange medium from the first heat exchanger 10 in the gas-liquid regulating member 40 can be used to adjust the dryness of the heat exchange medium (e.g., refrigerant) to adjust the heat transfer coefficient of the refrigerant and optimize the heat exchange performance of the heat exchange device 1000.

[0045] It should be understood that the gas-liquid heat exchange medium and the liquid phase heat exchange medium mentioned above are two physical forms of the same heat exchange medium, which will not be elaborated here.

[0046] In some embodiments, the gas-liquid regulator 40 is used to mix the gaseous heat exchange medium from the connecting pipe 30 and the liquid heat exchange medium from the first heat exchanger 10. This configuration allows the gas-liquid regulator 40 to adjust the dryness of the heat exchange medium (e.g., refrigerant) in the gas-liquid regulator 40 when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, thereby adjusting the heat transfer coefficient of the refrigerant to a more favorable, optimal, or near-optimal state, thus optimizing the heat exchange performance of the heat exchange device 1000. For example, the reduced dryness of the gaseous heat exchange medium after mixing in the gas-liquid regulator 40 improves and enhances the heat exchange effect after the mixed heat exchange medium enters the second heat exchanger 20. Furthermore, the mixed medium introduced into the second heat exchanger 20 is converted into a liquid heat exchange medium and then exits from the second heat exchanger 20.

[0047] When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as an evaporator, the first heat exchanger 10 is not directly connected to the gas-liquid regulating element 40. Part of the liquid phase heat exchange medium is introduced into the second heat exchanger 20 to evaporate and form a gas phase heat exchange medium. The gas phase heat exchange medium formed in the second heat exchanger 20 can enter the gas-liquid regulating element 40, and then the gas phase heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating element 40 can be introduced into the connecting pipe 30 and then discharged through the connecting pipe 30. Part of the liquid phase heat exchange medium is introduced into the first heat exchanger 10 to evaporate and form a gas phase heat exchange medium. The gas phase heat exchange medium formed in the first heat exchanger 10 can be directly introduced into the connecting pipe 30 and discharged through the connecting pipe 30.

[0048] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, a first flow path 80 is provided between the first heat exchanger 10 and the gas-liquid regulating component 40. A control valve 50 is provided on the first flow path 80 to control its on / off state. With this configuration, the on / off state of the first flow path 80 can be controlled by operating the control valve 50, thereby enabling selective connection between the first heat exchanger 10 and the gas-liquid regulating component 40.

[0049] In the above embodiments, the control valve 50 can be constructed in any suitable form. For example, the control valve 50 can be constructed as a solenoid valve 51, specifically an electromagnetic flow valve, which can control the on / off state of the first flow path 80; there is no limitation here.

[0050] In some implementations, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the height of the connection between the first heat exchanger 10 and the first flow path 80 is higher than the height of the connection between the first flow path 80 and the gas-liquid regulating component 40.

[0051] In the above embodiment, when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, the control valve 50 on the first flow path 80 is in the open state, and the liquid phase heat exchange medium formed in the first heat exchanger 10 can be introduced into the gas-liquid regulating member 40 through the first flow path 80. The height of the connection between the first heat exchanger 10 and the first flow path 80 is higher than the connection between the first flow path 80 and the gas-liquid regulating member 40. In this way, the liquid phase heat exchange medium in the first heat exchanger 10 can flow in the first flow path 80 by its own gravity, and the liquid phase heat exchange medium formed in the first heat exchanger 10 can enter the gas-liquid regulating member 40 more smoothly.

[0052] It should be noted that when the height of the connection between the first heat exchanger 10 and the first flow path 80 is higher than the height of the connection between the first flow path 80 and the gas-liquid regulating component 40, the positional relationship between the first heat exchanger 10, the second heat exchanger 20 and the gas-liquid regulating component 40 can be varied.

[0053] For example, in some possible implementations, the first heat exchanger 10 and the second heat exchanger 20 can be placed side by side in the horizontal direction, such that the height of the connection between the first heat exchanger 10 and the first flow path 80 is higher than the height of the connection between the first flow path 80 and the gas-liquid regulating member 40.

[0054] In other possible implementations, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the first heat exchanger 10 is located above the second heat exchanger 20, so that the first heat exchanger 10 is higher than the second heat exchanger 20 and the gas-liquid regulating member 40, and the height of the connection between the first heat exchanger 10 and the first flow path 80 is higher than the height of the connection between the first flow path 80 and the gas-liquid regulating member 40. When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, the liquid phase heat exchange medium condensed in the first heat exchanger 10 can smoothly enter the gas-liquid regulating member 40 with the assistance of its own gravity.

[0055] In other possible implementations, the first heat exchanger 10 is located above the gas-liquid regulating member 40, such that the height of the connection between the first heat exchanger 10 and the first flow path 80 is higher than the height of the connection between the first flow path 80 and the gas-liquid regulating member 40. When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, the liquid phase heat exchange medium condensed in the first heat exchanger 10 can smoothly enter the gas-liquid regulating member 40 with the assistance of its own gravity.

[0056] In some embodiments, the heat exchange device 1000 further includes a connecting flow path 60 connected to the first flow path 80. The connection point between the connecting flow path 60 and the first flow path 80 is located between the control valve 50 and the first heat exchanger 10. With this configuration, when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as an evaporator and the control valve 50 is in the closed state, the liquid phase heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path 60 can be directly introduced into the first heat exchanger 10. The liquid phase heat exchange medium is evaporated by the first heat exchanger 10 to form a gas phase heat exchange medium, which is then discharged through the connecting pipe 30.

[0057] In some embodiments, a control structure 70 for controlling the flow state of the heat exchange medium is provided on the connecting flow path 60. In this way, the flow state of the heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path 60 can be controlled by the control structure 70, so that when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser or an evaporator, the heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path 60 can be in different flow states.

[0058] It should be noted that the control structure 70 can be constructed in any suitable form.

[0059] For example, the control structure 70 may include a valve that controls the opening and closing of the connecting flow path 60. By controlling the opening and closing of the valve, the flow path 60 can be controlled, allowing the heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path 60 to be in different flow states. Furthermore, controlling the flow path 60 via the valve is simple to operate. The valve can be constructed in any suitable form. For example, the valve can be constructed as an electromagnetic flow valve; no limitation is made here.

[0060] In addition, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the control structure 70 may include a check valve 71. The check valve 71 is configured to allow the heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path 60 to flow unidirectionally into the first heat exchanger 10. This ensures that when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, the liquid phase heat exchange medium formed in the first heat exchanger 10 does not directly exit the heat exchange device 1000 through the connecting flow path 60. When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as an evaporator, the heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path 60 can flow unidirectionally into the first heat exchanger 10. This allows the heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path 60 to be in different flow states when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser or an evaporator. Furthermore, the control structure 70 includes a check valve 71, which allows the flow state of the heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path 60 to be planned during the assembly of the heat exchange device, eliminating the need to control the check valve 71 during subsequent use. This simplifies the control steps and saves labor costs.

[0061] In the above embodiments, the check valve 71 can be configured as a one-way valve 711, which is disposed on the connecting flow path 60 and is configured to allow the heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path 60 to flow unidirectionally into the first heat exchanger 10.

[0062] In some embodiments, the connecting flow path 60 includes a main pipe section 63, a first branch pipe section 61, and a second branch pipe section 62. The first branch pipe section 61 connects the first flow path 80 and the main pipe section 63, and the second branch pipe section 62 connects the second heat exchanger 20 and the main pipe section 63. The control structure 70 is disposed on the first branch pipe section 61.

[0063] In the above embodiment, the control structure 70 (e.g., one-way valve 711) controls the flow state of the heat exchange medium in the first branch pipe section 61, so that the heat exchange medium in the connecting flow path 60 can flow from the main pipe section 63 through the first branch pipe section 61 into the first heat exchanger 10. With this configuration, when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as an evaporator, the liquid phase heat exchange medium in the main pipe section 63 can flow into the first heat exchanger 10 through the first branch pipe section 61, and the liquid phase heat exchange medium in the main pipe section can flow into the second heat exchanger 20 through the second branch pipe section 62. In this way, the liquid phase heat exchange medium introduced into the heat exchange device 1000 from the connecting flow path 60 can simultaneously exchange heat through the first heat exchanger 10 and the second heat exchanger 20, so that the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchange device 1000 when used as an evaporator is higher.

[0064] Furthermore, when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, the control valve 50 on the first flow path 80 is in the open state. The liquid heat exchange medium formed by condensation in the first heat exchanger 10 flows into the gas-liquid regulating element 40 through the first flow path 80. The liquid heat exchange medium mixes with the gas heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating element 40 and then enters the second heat exchanger 20 for condensation to form a gas heat exchange medium. The gas heat exchange medium formed in the second heat exchanger 20 is introduced into the main pipe section 63 through the second branch pipe section 62 and then exits from the main pipe section 63.

[0065] In some implementations, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the second heat exchanger 20 includes at least one heat exchange flow path 21. The first flow port 211 of the heat exchange flow path 21 is connected to the gas-liquid regulating member 40, and the second flow port 212 of the heat exchange flow path 21 is connected to the second branch pipe section 62. The heat exchange flow path 21 can be used for heat exchange of the heat exchange medium introduced into the heat exchange flow path 21 from the gas-liquid regulating member 40, or the heat exchange flow path 21 can be used for heat exchange of the heat exchange medium introduced into the heat exchange flow path 21 from the second branch pipe section 62.

[0066] In some embodiments, the first heat exchanger 10 includes at least one heat exchange channel 11, with a first inlet 111 connected to a connecting pipe 30 and a second inlet 112 connected to a first flow path 80. This configuration allows the heat exchange channel 11 to be used for heat exchange when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, with the heat exchange channel 11 being used for heat exchange by the heat exchange medium introduced into the heat exchange channel 11 through the connecting pipe 30; and when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as an evaporator, the heat exchange channel 11 can be used for heat exchange by the heat exchange medium introduced into the heat exchange channel 11 through the first flow path 80 from the first branch pipe section 61.

[0067] In some implementations, such as Figure 1As shown, the first heat exchanger 10 includes a manifold 90, which connects to a connecting pipe 30 and at least one heat exchange channel 11. The manifold 90 can be used to collect the gaseous heat exchange medium introduced into the connecting pipe 30 and then introduced into the heat exchange channel 11, thereby achieving a relatively uniform flow distribution; or the manifold 90 can be used to collect the heat exchange medium introduced into the heat exchange channel 11 and then introduced into the connecting pipe 30, thereby simplifying the pipeline layout, streamlining the structure, and improving the reliability of the heat exchange device.

[0068] In the above embodiments, when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, the gaseous heat exchange medium in the connecting pipe 30 can be introduced into the manifold 90, and then into the heat exchange channel 11 through the manifold 90; when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as an evaporator, the gaseous heat exchange medium formed in the heat exchange channel 11 can enter the manifold 90, and then exit into the connecting pipe 30 through the manifold 90.

[0069] It should be understood that the manifold 90 can be constructed in any suitable form. For example, the manifold 90 can adopt the structure of a gas collecting pipe in a heat exchanger, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the manifold 90 may include a tube body 91 with an inner cavity and a plurality of ports 92 disposed on the tube body 91. The tube body 91 of the manifold 90 may extend vertically. The manifold 90 is connected to the connecting pipe 30 and at least one heat exchange channel 11 through the plurality of ports 92. The gas phase heat exchange medium can be introduced into the inner cavity through the heat exchange channel 11 or the connecting pipe 30, and then out of the inner cavity to the connecting pipe 30 or the heat exchange channel 11.

[0070] In some implementations, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the first heat exchanger 10 includes a heat exchange channel 11, and the second heat exchanger 20 includes a heat exchange path 21. The number of heat exchange channels 11 is less than or equal to the number of heat exchange paths 21.

[0071] In the above embodiments, when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, the gaseous heat exchange medium that enters the heat exchange device 1000 through the connecting pipe 30 exits through the connecting flow path 60 after heat exchange with the first heat exchanger 10 and the second heat exchanger 20. The first heat exchanger 10 condenses the gaseous heat exchange medium introduced through the connecting pipe 30 into a liquid heat exchange medium, which is then introduced into the gas-liquid regulating element 40 for mixing with the gaseous heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating element 40, thereby regulating the dryness of the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating element 40. The second heat exchanger 20 is the main heat exchange structure of the heat exchange device 1000. The second heat exchanger 20 condenses the gaseous heat exchange medium introduced into the heat exchange device 1000 through the connecting pipe 30 into a liquid heat exchange medium, which is then discharged through the connecting flow path 60. Therefore, when the number of heat exchange flow paths 11 of the first heat exchanger 10 is less than or equal to the number of heat exchange flow paths 21 of the second heat exchanger 20, the number of heat exchange flow paths 21 that undertake the main condensation function of the heat exchange device 1000 is greater, which can make the condensation efficiency of the heat exchange device 1000 higher, thereby further improving the heat exchange performance of the heat exchange device 1000.

[0072] Of course, in some possible implementations, the number of heat exchange channels 11 may be greater than the number of heat exchange paths 21, and there is no limitation here.

[0073] In some embodiments, the windward area of ​​the first heat exchanger 10 is less than or equal to the windward area of ​​the second heat exchanger 20. The second heat exchanger 20 mainly condenses the gaseous heat exchange medium introduced into the heat exchange device 1000 through the connecting pipe 30 into a liquid heat exchange medium, which is then discharged through the connecting flow path 60. The second heat exchanger 20 is the main heat exchange structure of the heat exchange device 1000. When the windward area of ​​the first heat exchanger 10 is less than or equal to the windward area of ​​the second heat exchanger 20, the windward area of ​​the second heat exchanger 20 can be made large enough, thereby making the area of ​​the second heat exchanger 20 for heat exchange with the external environment large enough, and more air can flow through the second heat exchanger 20 to further improve the heat exchange efficiency of the second heat exchanger 20.

[0074] It should be understood that when the heat exchange device 1000 is used in the thermal management system 3000, the end of the aforementioned connecting pipe 30 away from the first heat exchanger 10 and the gas-liquid regulating element 40 can be connected to a device capable of providing a gaseous heat exchange medium (e.g., compressor 100). The connecting pipe 30 can be selectively connected to the inlet or outlet of the compressor 100 via the reversing valve 200. When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, the connecting pipe 30 is connected to the outlet of the compressor 100 via the reversing valve 200. The compressor 100 introduces the compressed gaseous heat exchange medium into the connecting pipe 30, and through the connecting pipe 30, it is introduced into the first heat exchanger 10 and the gas-liquid regulating element 40 respectively. When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as an evaporator, the connecting pipe 30 is connected to the inlet of the compressor 100 via the reversing valve 200. The gaseous heat exchange medium formed by the evaporation of the heat exchange device 1000 is introduced into the inlet of the compressor 100 through the connecting pipe 30.

[0075] Furthermore, when the heat exchange device 1000 is used in the thermal management system 3000, the end of the aforementioned connecting flow path 60 that is away from the second heat exchanger 20 and the first flow path 80 can be connected to another heat exchange module in the thermal management system 3000, without any restrictions.

[0076] In some embodiments, the gas-liquid regulating member 40 may be part of the second heat exchanger 20, and the gas-liquid regulating member 40 may be connected to the heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20. This arrangement allows for a more compact structure between the gas-liquid regulating member 40 and the heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20, thereby reducing the space occupied by the heat exchange device 1000. Furthermore, as part of the second heat exchanger 20, the gas-liquid regulating member 40 also allows for a more stable connection between the gas-phase heat exchanger 40 and the heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20. Additionally, since the gas-liquid regulating member 40 is part of the second heat exchanger 20, the mixing of the gas-phase heat exchange medium and the liquid-phase heat exchange medium can be achieved using the structure of the second heat exchanger 20 itself, reducing the need for additional components.

[0077] In some embodiments, the gas-liquid regulator 40 can be configured in any suitable form. For example, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the second heat exchanger 20 includes a gas collecting pipe 400, which is a gas-liquid regulating element 40. The gas collecting pipe 400 is connected to the connecting pipe 30 and the heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20, and can be selectively connected to the first heat exchanger 10 via a first flow path 80. The gas collecting pipe 400 can also be selectively connected to the second inlet / outlet 112 of the heat exchange flow channel 11 of the first heat exchanger 10 via the first flow path 80.

[0078] In the above embodiments, the gas collecting pipe 400 is a gas-liquid regulating component 40, which has a simple structure and low cost.

[0079] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the second heat exchanger 20 includes at least one heat exchange flow path 21 connected to the gas-liquid regulating member 40, which can be used for heat exchange of the heat exchange medium introduced into the second heat exchanger 20.

[0080] In some embodiments, the gas-liquid regulating component 40 is provided with at least two connecting ports 41 that connect to the connecting pipe 30, the first heat exchanger 10 and the heat exchange flow path 21. The gas-liquid regulating component 40 can be connected to the connecting pipe 30, the first heat exchanger 10 and the heat exchange flow path 21 through the at least two connecting ports 41.

[0081] For example, in some possible implementations, the gas-liquid regulator 40 may have two connection ports 41, one of which may be connected to the connecting pipe 30 and the first heat exchanger 10, and the other of which may be connected to the heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20.

[0082] In some embodiments not shown, at least two connection ports 41 may include a first port and a second port, the first port being connected to the heat exchange flow path 21, and the second port being connected to the connecting pipe 30 and optionally connected to the first heat exchanger 10.

[0083] In the above embodiments, the heat exchange device 1000 may include a three-way connector, one of the connection ports 92 of the three-way connector is connected to the second port, and one of the other two connection ports 92 of the three-way connector is connected to the connecting pipe 30 and the other is connected to the first heat exchanger 10 through the pipe. A control valve 50 is provided on the pipe connecting the three-way connector to the first heat exchanger 10, and the first port is connected to the heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20.

[0084] In other implementations, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, at least two connection ports 41 include a first connection port 411, a second connection port 412 and a third connection port 413. The first connection port 411 is optionally connected to the first heat exchanger 10, the second connection port 412 is connected to the heat exchange flow path 21, and the third connection port 413 is connected to the connecting pipe 30.

[0085] In the above embodiment, the first connection port 411 is connected to the first heat exchanger 10 through the first flow path 80. The first flow path 80 is provided with a control valve 50 for controlling the on and off states. By controlling the on and off states of the first flow path 80, the first connection port 411 can be selectively connected to the first heat exchanger 10.

[0086] In addition, the gas-liquid regulating component 40 is connected to the heat exchange flow path 21, the connecting pipe 30 and optionally to the first heat exchanger 10 through independent connecting ports 41, so as to facilitate independent management of the heat exchange medium flowing in the pipes connected to the first connecting port 411, the second connecting port 412 and the third connecting port 413 respectively.

[0087] It should be noted that the positional relationship between the first connecting port 411, the second connecting port 412, and the third connecting port 413 can be varied.

[0088] In some embodiments, the first connection port 411 is positioned higher than the third connection port 413. In this embodiment, when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, the control valve 50 connected to the first flow path 80 of the first heat exchanger 10 via the first connection port 411 can be in an open state, so that the heat exchange medium in the first heat exchanger 10 can be introduced into the gas-liquid regulating member 40 through the first flow path 80 and the first connection port 411. This facilitates sufficient mixing of the liquid phase heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating member 40 via the first connection port 411 and the gas phase heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating member 40 via the third connection port 413, thereby reducing the dryness of the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating member 40. Consequently, the heat exchange efficiency is higher when the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating member 40 is introduced into the heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20 for condensation and heat absorption.

[0089] In the above embodiment, the position of the first connecting port 411 is higher than that of the third connecting port 413. The liquid phase heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating member 40 through the first connecting port 411 falls downward under the action of gravity, and can fully contact and mix with the gas phase heat exchange medium introduced through the third connecting port 413 which is lower than the first connecting port 411.

[0090] Furthermore, when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as an evaporator, the control valve 50 on the first flow path 80 can be in the closed state. The second connecting port 412 is used to allow the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20 to flow into the gas-liquid regulating element 40, and the third connecting port 413 is used to allow the gas phase heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating element 40 to flow out into the connecting pipe 30. The number of second connecting ports 412 can be one or more, and the position of the second connecting ports 412 can be arbitrarily set according to actual needs. For example, there can be multiple second connecting ports 412, arranged at intervals along the vertical direction, with the third connecting port 413 located vertically between the multiple second connecting ports 412.

[0091] In some embodiments, the gas-liquid regulating member 40 can be constructed in any suitable form. For example, the gas-liquid regulating member 40 includes a gas collecting pipe 400, which includes a cavity 42 and a first connecting port 411, a second connecting port 412, and a third connecting port 413 disposed in the cavity 42, wherein the first connecting port 411 is disposed at the top of the cavity 42. It is understood that the first connecting port 411 being disposed at the top of the cavity 42 can mean that the first connecting port 411 is located at the highest point of the cavity 42, or in a region adjacent to the highest point (e.g., the top of the side wall of the cavity 42), and the mixing of the gas phase heat exchange medium and the liquid phase heat exchange medium can take place in the cavity 42.

[0092] In other possible implementations, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the first connecting port 411 is positioned higher than the second connecting port 412 and the third connecting port 413. When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, the liquid phase heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating member 40 through the first connecting port 411 falls downwards under the action of gravity, facilitating sufficient contact and mixing with the gas phase heat exchange medium introduced through the third connecting port 413, which is lower than the first connecting port 411.

[0093] In the above embodiments, the number of second connecting ports 412 can be one or more, and the position of the second connecting ports 412 can be arbitrarily set according to actual needs. For example, the number of second connecting ports 412 can be multiple, and the multiple second connecting ports 412 are arranged at intervals along the vertical direction, and the position of the third connecting port 413 in the vertical direction is located between the multiple second connecting ports 412.

[0094] In some other possible implementations, the third connection port 413 is positioned higher than the first connection port 411.

[0095] In the above embodiment, when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, the gas phase heat exchange medium in the connecting pipe 30 enters the gas-liquid regulating member 40 through the third connecting port 413, and the liquid phase heat exchange medium formed in the first heat exchanger 10 enters the gas-liquid regulating member 40 through the first connecting port 411. The gas phase heat exchange medium and the liquid phase heat exchange medium are mixed in the gas-liquid regulating member 40 to reduce the dryness of the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating member 40. As a result, the heat exchange efficiency is higher when the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating member 40 is introduced into the heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20 for condensation and heat release.

[0096] Furthermore, there can be one or more second connecting ports 412, and the position of the second connecting ports 412 can be arbitrarily set according to actual needs. For example, there can be multiple second connecting ports 412, which are arranged at intervals along the vertical direction, and the position of the first connecting port 411 in the vertical direction is located between the multiple second connecting ports 412.

[0097] In some other possible implementations, the third connection port 413 is positioned higher than the first connection port 411 and the second connection port 412.

[0098] In the above embodiment, the third connection port 413 for supplying gas phase heat exchange medium is positioned higher than the first connection port 411 and the second connection port 412. When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as an evaporator, it facilitates the gas phase heat exchange medium that enters the gas-liquid regulating member 40 from the heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20 to exit through the third connection port 413.

[0099] In the above embodiment, the gaseous heat exchange medium rises to a higher position in the gas-liquid regulating member 40 and exits through the third connecting port 413 located at the higher position.

[0100] In some other possible embodiments, the second connection port 412 is positioned higher than the first connection port 411, wherein the first connection port 411 may be positioned higher than the third connection port 413. When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, it facilitates sufficient contact and mixing between the liquid phase heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating member 40 through the first connection port 411 and the gas phase heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating member 40 through the third connection port 413. Furthermore, it facilitates the thorough mixing of the gas phase heat exchange medium and the liquid phase heat exchange medium before they are introduced into the heat exchange flow path 21 through the second connection port 412 for condensation. In the above embodiments, the liquid phase heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating member 40 through the first connection port 411 falls downwards under the influence of gravity, enabling it to fully contact and mix with the gas phase heat exchange medium introduced through the third connection port 413, which is lower than the first connection port 411.

[0101] In some other possible embodiments, the second connection port 412 is positioned higher than the first connection port 411 and the third connection port 413. The first connection port 411 may be positioned higher than the third connection port 413. When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, this facilitates sufficient contact and mixing between the liquid phase heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating member 40 through the first connection port 411 and the gas phase heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating member 40 through the third connection port 413. Furthermore, this facilitates thorough mixing of the gas phase heat exchange medium and the liquid phase heat exchange medium before they are introduced into the heat exchange flow path 21 through the second connection port 412 for condensation. In the above embodiments, the liquid phase heat exchange medium introduced into the gas-liquid regulating member 40 through the first connection port 411 falls downwards under gravity, allowing for sufficient contact and mixing with the gas phase heat exchange medium introduced through the third connection port 413, which is lower than the first connection port 411.

[0102] In some implementations, the number of second connection ports 412 corresponds to the number of heat exchange flow paths 21. The second connection ports 412 and the heat exchange flow paths 21 can be connected in a one-to-one or one-to-many manner. The number of second connection ports 412 can be one or more, and an appropriate correspondence can be selected according to actual needs and layout space.

[0103] For example, the number of second connection ports 412 may be one or more, and one second connection port 412 is connected to at least one heat exchange flow path 21 so as to realize the connection between the gas-liquid regulating element 40 and the heat exchange flow path 21 through the second connection port 412, so as to facilitate the flow of heat exchange medium between the gas-liquid regulating element 40 and the heat exchange flow path 21.

[0104] For example, there is one second connection port 412, which is connected to at least one heat exchange flow path 21. This arrangement allows the gas-liquid regulating element 40 to communicate with at least one heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20 through the second connection port 412, thereby enabling the flow of the heat exchange medium between the gas-liquid regulating element 40 and the second heat exchanger 20. Exemplarily, the second connection port 412 can be connected to a main pipe, which is connected to multiple heat exchange flow paths 21 through multiple branch pipes.

[0105] In other implementations, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, there are multiple second connection ports 412, which are connected to multiple heat exchange flow paths 21. For example, the number of second connection ports 412 is the same as the number of heat exchange flow paths 21, and they are connected one-to-one. This arrangement allows the gas-liquid regulating component 40 to connect to the multiple heat exchange flow paths 21 of the second heat exchanger 20 through the multiple second connection ports 412, thereby realizing the flow of heat exchange medium between the gas-liquid regulating component 40 and the second heat exchanger 20. Alternatively, the number of second connection ports 412 and the number of heat exchange flow paths 21 can be different. For example, some second connection ports 412 can be connected to multiple heat exchange flow paths 21 in a one-to-many manner, while other second connection ports 412 can be connected to heat exchange flow paths 21 in a one-to-one manner. This disclosure is not limited to this.

[0106] In some embodiments, as mentioned above, the gas-liquid regulating component 40 includes a gas collecting pipe 400 that extends along the height direction. A second connecting port 412 and a third connecting port 413 are disposed on the side wall of the gas collecting pipe 400, which makes it easier to arrange the positions of the second connecting port 412 and the third connecting port 413 on the gas collecting pipe 400.

[0107] In some embodiments, the number of second heat exchangers 20 and gas-liquid regulating elements 40 is the same and there are one or more of them. Each gas-liquid regulating element 40 is connected to the heat exchange flow path 21 of the corresponding second heat exchanger 20 through its own second communication port 412. This arrangement can further optimize the heat exchange performance of the heat exchange device 1000.

[0108] For example, when the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, multiple gas-liquid regulating elements 40 can be used to mix the gas-phase heat exchange medium and the liquid-phase heat exchange medium. The mixed heat exchange medium flows into the heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20, which is connected to the gas-liquid regulating elements 40, and is condensed. This allows the mixed gas-phase heat exchange medium and the liquid-phase heat exchange medium to be condensed in the heat exchange flow path 21 of the multiple second heat exchangers 20, so that the mixed heat exchange medium is condensed more fully through the second heat exchangers 20, thereby improving the condensation effect of the heat exchange device 1000 and optimizing the heat exchange performance of the heat exchange device 1000.

[0109] When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as an evaporator, the liquid phase heat exchange medium introduced into the heat exchange device 1000 can be evaporated into a gas phase heat exchange medium through the heat exchange flow path 21 of multiple second heat exchangers 20, so that the liquid phase heat exchange medium evaporates more fully, thereby improving the evaporation effect of the heat exchange device 1000 and optimizing the heat exchange performance of the heat exchange device 1000.

[0110] In some implementations, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first heat exchanger 10 can be selectively connected to multiple gas-liquid regulating elements 40. When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, the multiple gas-liquid regulating elements 40 can be used to mix the gas phase heat exchange medium and the liquid phase heat exchange medium, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchange medium.

[0111] In the above embodiment, multiple gas-liquid regulating components 40 are respectively connected to the second inlet / outlet 112 of the first heat exchanger 10 through a first connecting port 411 and a corresponding first flow path 80. Each first flow path 80 is provided with a control valve 50. To facilitate the connection of multiple gas-liquid regulating components 40 to the second inlet / outlet 112 of the first heat exchanger 10, a manifold 800 can be connected to the second inlet / outlet 112. The ends of the multiple first flow paths 80 away from the corresponding gas-liquid regulating components 40 can be connected to the manifold 800. In addition, the second connecting port 412 of each gas-liquid regulating component 40 is respectively connected to the heat exchange flow path 21 of the corresponding second heat exchanger 20, and the third connecting port 413 of each gas-liquid regulating component 40 is respectively connected to the connecting pipe 30.

[0112] In addition, there can be multiple connecting flow paths 60. The second branch pipe section 62 of each connecting flow path 60, with its end away from the main pipe section 63, is connected to the corresponding second heat exchanger 20. The first pipe section of each connecting flow path 60, with its end away from the main pipe section 63, is connected to the manifold 800, so that the first pipe section of each connecting flow path 60 is connected to the second inlet / outlet 112 of the first heat exchanger 10 through the manifold 800. Each first branch pipe section 61 is equipped with a one-way valve 711, and the connection point between each first flow path 80 and the manifold 800 is located between the connection point of the first branch pipe section 61 and the manifold 800.

[0113] When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as a condenser, the control valve 50 on the first flow path 80 is in the open state, and part of the gas phase heat exchange medium introduced into the connecting pipe 30 is introduced into the heat exchange flow channel 11 of the first heat exchanger 10. The gas phase heat exchange medium entering the heat exchange flow channel 11 is condensed to form a liquid phase heat exchange medium. In addition, the liquid phase heat exchange medium in the heat exchange channel 11 flows into multiple gas-liquid regulating components 40 through multiple first flow paths 80 respectively. A portion of the gas phase heat exchange medium in the connecting pipe 30 is introduced into each gas-liquid regulating component 40. The gas phase heat exchange medium and the liquid phase heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating component 40 are mixed to adjust the dryness of the heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating component 40 to the optimal state or near the optimal state. The heat exchange medium mixed in the gas-liquid regulating component 40 is introduced into the heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20 for condensation to further form a liquid phase heat exchange medium. The liquid phase heat exchange medium flows into the main pipe section 63 and then out through the second branch pipe section 62 corresponding to each second heat exchanger 20.

[0114] When the heat exchange device 1000 is used as an evaporator, the control valve 50 on the first flow path 80 is closed. A portion of the liquid phase heat exchange medium entering the main pipe section 63 of the multiple connected flow paths 60 enters the manifold 800 through the first branch pipe section 61. The liquid phase heat exchange medium entering the manifold 800 can enter the heat exchange channel 11 of the first heat exchanger 10 through the manifold 800 to evaporate, forming a gas phase heat exchange medium, which is then introduced into the connecting pipe 30. A portion of the liquid phase heat exchange medium entering the main pipe section 63 of the multiple connected flow paths 60 enters the corresponding heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20 through the second branch pipe section 62 to evaporate, forming a gas phase heat exchange medium, which is then introduced into the gas-liquid regulating element 40. The gas phase heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating element 40 is introduced into the connecting pipe 30 and then exits through the connecting pipe 30.

[0115] In some implementations, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the first heat exchanger 10 and the second heat exchanger 20 are constructed as a single unit, which makes the structure of the first heat exchanger 10 and the second heat exchanger 20 more compact, thereby reducing the space occupied by the heat exchange device 1000. In addition, the integration of the first heat exchanger 10 and the second heat exchanger 20 into one unit can also ensure the stability of the connection between the first heat exchanger 10 and the second heat exchanger 20.

[0116] In the above embodiments, the first heat exchanger 10 and the second heat exchanger 20 can be constructed as a single unit in any suitable manner. For example, the first heat exchanger 10 includes a plurality of heat exchange channels 11, and the second heat exchanger 20 includes a plurality of heat exchange paths 21. The heat exchange channels 11 of the first heat exchanger 10 and the heat exchange paths 21 of the second heat exchanger 20 can share the same set of heat exchange fins.

[0117] In other embodiments, the first heat exchanger 10 and the second heat exchanger 20 are separately arranged. The first heat exchanger 10 includes a heat exchange channel 11 and a first set of heat exchange fins connected to the heat exchange channel 11, and the second heat exchanger 20 includes a heat exchange path 21 and a second set of heat exchange fins connected to the heat exchange path 21. The first heat exchanger 10 and the second heat exchanger 20 can be arranged separately, or they can be detachably connected by fasteners or other connectors. This disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0118] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a thermal management system 3000, such as... Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the device includes a compressor 100, a reversing valve 200, a first heat exchange device 500, and a second heat exchange device 700. The heat exchange medium flowing out of the outlet of the compressor 100 flows selectively through the reversing valve 200 through the first heat exchange device 500 and then through the second heat exchange device 700, or selectively flows through the second heat exchange device 700 and then through the first heat exchange device 500.

[0119] Among them, at least one of the first heat exchange device 500 and the second heat exchange device 700 is the aforementioned heat exchange device 1000.

[0120] In some embodiments, the first heat exchange device 500 is an outdoor heat exchange device, and the second heat exchange device 700 is an indoor heat exchange device, so that the indoor temperature can be regulated by the thermal management system 3000.

[0121] In some embodiments, the reversing valve 200 is a four-way valve 2000 and has a first valve port 201, a second valve port 202, a third valve port 203, and a fourth valve port 204; the first valve port 201 is adapted to be connected to the outlet of the compressor 100, the second valve port 202 is adapted to be connected to the inlet of the compressor 100, the third valve port 203 is adapted to be connected to the first heat exchange device 500, and the fourth valve port 204 is adapted to be connected to the second heat exchange device 700. Thus, through the four-way valve 2000, the heat exchange medium flowing out of the compressor 100 outlet can selectively flow through the first heat exchange device 500 and then through the second heat exchange device 700, or selectively flow through the second heat exchange device 700 and then through the first heat exchange device 500.

[0122] In some embodiments, the thermal management system 3000 further includes a throttling device 600 connected between the first heat exchange device 500 and the second heat exchange device 700 for throttling and depressurizing the liquid heat exchange medium flowing between the first heat exchange device 500 and the second heat exchange device 700.

[0123] It should be noted that the aforementioned throttling device 600 can be in any suitable form. For example, the throttling device 600 can be an electronic expansion valve, a throttle valve, or a capillary tube, etc.

[0124] The flow of the heat exchange medium in the thermal management system 3000 is briefly described below. The first heat exchange device 500 may be the heat exchange device 1000 provided in the first aspect of this disclosure. The first heat exchange device 500 is an outdoor heat exchange device, and the second heat exchange device 700 is an indoor heat exchange device.

[0125] like Figure 4As shown, in the refrigeration state, when the first heat exchange device 500 is used as a condenser, the control valve 50 on the first flow path 80 is in the open state. The first valve port 201 of the four-way valve 2000 is connected to the third valve port 203, and the second valve port 202 is connected to the fourth valve port 204. The gas phase heat exchange medium exiting the compressor 100 flows through the first valve port 201 and the third valve port 203 of the four-way valve 200 to the connecting pipe 30 of the first heat exchange device 500. A portion of the gas phase heat exchange medium in the connecting pipe 30 is directly introduced into the first heat exchanger 10 through the manifold 90. After condensation and heat release in the first heat exchanger 10, it forms a liquid phase heat exchange medium. Then, the liquid phase heat exchange medium exiting the heat exchange channel 11 of the first heat exchanger 10 enters the gas-liquid regulating element 40 through the first flow path 80. A portion of the gas phase heat exchange medium in the connecting pipe 30... The gas phase heat exchange medium and the liquid phase heat exchange medium are introduced into the gas-liquid regulating component 40, where they are mixed. The mixed heat exchange medium is then introduced into the heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20 for condensation. The liquid phase heat exchange medium formed by condensation in the second heat exchanger 20 is then introduced into the main pipe section 63 of the connecting flow path 60. The liquid phase heat exchange medium in the main pipe section 63 of the connecting flow path 60 then passes through the subcooling flow path (not shown) and the throttling device 600 before entering the second heat exchange device 700. The liquid phase heat exchange medium evaporates and absorbs heat in the second heat exchange device 700 to form a gas phase heat exchange medium. The gas phase heat exchange medium enters the gas-liquid separator 300 after passing through the fourth valve port 204 and the second valve port 202 of the four-way valve 2000. The gas phase heat exchange medium after passing through the gas-liquid separator 300 is then introduced into the compressor 100 through the inlet of the compressor 100.

[0126] like Figure 5As shown, in heating mode, when the first heat exchanger 500 is used as an evaporator, the first valve port 201 of the four-way valve 2000 is connected to the fourth valve port 204, and the second valve port 202 is connected to the third valve port 203. The gaseous heat exchange medium exiting the compressor 100 flows to the second heat exchanger 700 after passing through the first valve port 201 and the fourth valve port 204 of the four-way valve 2000. The gaseous heat exchange medium condenses in the second heat exchanger 700 to form a liquid heat exchange medium. The liquid heat exchange medium is throttled and depressurized by the throttling device 600 before entering the first heat exchanger 500. The liquid heat exchange medium first passes through the main pipe section 63 of the connecting flow path 60, and then part of the liquid heat exchange medium in the main pipe section 63 enters the heat exchange channel 11 of the first heat exchanger 10 through the first branch pipe section 61 and the first flow path 80. The heat exchange medium in the heat exchange channel 11 is evaporated to form a gaseous heat exchange medium. The gaseous heat exchange medium in the heat exchange channel 11 is introduced into the connecting pipe 30 through the manifold 90. Part of the liquid heat exchange medium in the main pipe section 63 enters the heat exchange flow path 21 of the second heat exchanger 20 through the second branch pipe section 62. The liquid heat exchange medium in the heat exchange flow path 21 is evaporated to form a gaseous heat exchange medium. The gaseous heat exchange medium in the heat exchange flow path 21 is then introduced into the gas-liquid regulating component 40. The gaseous heat exchange medium in the gas-liquid regulating component 40 is introduced into the connecting pipe 30. The gaseous heat exchange medium in the connecting pipe 30 is introduced into the gas-liquid separator 300 through the third valve port 203 and the second valve port 202 of the four-way valve 2000. After passing through the gas-liquid separator 300, the gaseous heat exchange medium is introduced into the compressor 100 through the inlet of the compressor 100.

[0127] A third aspect of this disclosure provides an indoor unit including a heat exchange device 1000 as provided in the first aspect of this disclosure, wherein the outdoor unit has all the beneficial effects of the heat exchange device 1000 provided in the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0128] This fourth aspect of the disclosure provides an outdoor unit including a heat exchange device 1000 as provided in the first aspect of the disclosure. The indoor unit has all the beneficial effects of the heat exchange device 1000 provided in the first aspect of the disclosure.

[0129] The fifth aspect of this disclosure provides an air conditioner, including a heat exchange device 1000 as provided in the first aspect of this disclosure, or a thermal management system 3000 as provided in the second aspect of this disclosure, or an indoor unit as provided in the third aspect of this disclosure, or an outdoor unit as provided in the fourth aspect of this disclosure.

[0130] The preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific details of the above embodiments. Within the scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure, various simple modifications can be made to the technical solutions of the present disclosure, and these simple modifications all fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure.

[0131] It should also be noted that the various specific technical features described in the above specific embodiments can be combined in any suitable manner without contradiction. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, this disclosure will not describe the various possible combinations separately.

[0132] Furthermore, various different embodiments of this disclosure can be combined in any way, as long as they do not violate the spirit of this disclosure, they should also be regarded as the content disclosed in this disclosure.

Claims

1. A heat exchange device, characterized in that, include: First heat exchanger; Second heat exchanger; Connecting pipes; as well as A gas-liquid regulating component, wherein the connecting pipeline is connected to the first heat exchanger and the gas-liquid regulating component respectively, the gas-liquid regulating component is connected to the second heat exchanger, and the first heat exchanger is optionally connected to the gas-liquid regulating component.

2. The heat exchange device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gas-liquid regulating element is used to mix the gas phase heat exchange medium from the connecting pipeline and the liquid phase heat exchange medium from the first heat exchanger.

3. The heat exchange device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A first flow path is provided between the first heat exchanger and the gas-liquid regulating component, and a control valve for controlling the on / off state is provided on the first flow path.

4. The heat exchange device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The height of the connection between the first heat exchanger and the first flow path is higher than the height of the connection between the first flow path and the gas-liquid regulating component.

5. The heat exchange device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The heat exchange device further includes a connecting flow path that is connected to the first flow path, and the connection point between the connecting flow path and the first flow path is located between the control valve and the first heat exchanger.

6. The heat exchange device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The connecting flow path is equipped with a control structure for controlling the flow state of the heat exchange medium.

7. The heat exchange device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The control structure includes a valve; and / or, The control structure includes a check valve configured to allow the heat exchange medium in the connected flow path to flow unidirectionally into the first heat exchanger.

8. The heat exchange device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The connecting flow path includes a main pipe section, a first branch pipe section, and a second branch pipe section. The first branch pipe section connects the first flow path and the main pipe section, and the second branch pipe section connects the second heat exchanger and the main pipe section. The control structure is disposed on the first branch pipe section.

9. The heat exchange device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second heat exchanger includes at least one heat exchange flow path, the first flow port of the heat exchange flow path is connected to the gas-liquid regulating element, and the second flow port of the heat exchange flow path is connected to the second branch pipe section.

10. The heat exchange device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first heat exchanger includes at least one heat exchange channel, the first inlet and outlet of the heat exchange channel are connected to the connecting pipe, and the second inlet and outlet of the heat exchange channel are connected to the first flow path.

11. The heat exchange device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first heat exchanger includes a manifold that connects the connecting pipe and the at least one heat exchange channel.

12. The heat exchange device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first heat exchanger includes heat exchange channels, and the second heat exchanger includes heat exchange paths, wherein the number of heat exchange channels is less than or equal to the number of heat exchange paths.

13. The heat exchange device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The windward area of ​​the first heat exchanger is less than or equal to the windward area of ​​the second heat exchanger.

14. The heat exchange device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first heat exchanger is located above the second heat exchanger; and / or, The first heat exchanger is located above the gas-liquid regulating element.

15. The heat exchange device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gas-liquid regulating element is part of the second heat exchanger.

16. The heat exchange device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second heat exchanger includes a gas collecting pipe, which is the gas-liquid regulating element.

17. The heat exchange device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second heat exchanger includes at least one heat exchange flow path connected to the gas-liquid regulating element.

18. The heat exchange device according to claim 17, characterized in that, The gas-liquid regulating component is provided with at least two connecting ports that connect the connecting pipeline, the first heat exchanger, and the heat exchange flow path.

19. The heat exchange device according to claim 18, characterized in that, The at least two connection ports include a first connection port, a second connection port, and a third connection port. The first connection port may be selectively connected to the first heat exchanger, the second connection port is connected to the heat exchange flow path, and the third connection port is connected to the connecting pipeline.

20. The heat exchange device according to claim 19, characterized in that, The position of the first connection port is higher than the position of the third connection port; or... The position of the first connecting port is higher than the positions of the second connecting port and the third connecting port; or... The third connection is positioned higher than the first connection; or... The third connection is positioned higher than the first and second connections; or... The second connection is positioned higher than the first connection; or, The second connection is positioned higher than the first and third connections.

21. The heat exchange device according to claim 19, characterized in that, The number of the second connection ports corresponds to the number of the heat exchange flow paths.

22. The heat exchange device according to claim 18, characterized in that, The at least two connection ports include a first port and a second port, the first port being connected to the heat exchange flow path, and the second port being connected to the connecting pipe and optionally connected to the first heat exchanger.

23. The heat exchange device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of the second heat exchanger and the gas-liquid regulating element are the same, and each has one or more.

24. The heat exchange device according to claim 23, characterized in that, The first heat exchanger may be selectively connected to a plurality of the gas-liquid regulating elements.

25. The heat exchange device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are constructed as a single unit; or, The first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are separate units.

26. A thermal management system, characterized in that, It includes a compressor, a reversing valve, a first heat exchange device and a second heat exchange device. The heat exchange medium flowing out of the outlet of the compressor selectively flows through the first heat exchange device and then through the second heat exchange device through the reversing valve, or selectively flows through the second heat exchange device and then through the first heat exchange device. Wherein, at least one of the first heat exchange device and the second heat exchange device is the heat exchange device according to any one of claims 1-25.

27. The thermal management system according to claim 26, characterized in that, The first heat exchange device is an outdoor heat exchange device, and the second heat exchange device is an indoor heat exchange device.

28. The thermal management system according to claim 26, characterized in that, The reversing valve is a four-way valve and has a first valve port, a second valve port, a third valve port and a fourth valve port; the first valve port is adapted to be connected to the outlet of the compressor, the second valve port is adapted to be connected to the inlet of the compressor; the third valve port is adapted to be connected to the first heat exchange device, and the fourth valve port is adapted to be connected to the second heat exchange device.

29. The thermal management system according to any one of claims 26-28, characterized in that, The thermal management system further includes a throttling device connected between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

30. An indoor unit, characterized in that, Includes the heat exchange device as described in any one of claims 1-25.

31. An outdoor unit, characterized in that, Includes the heat exchange device as described in any one of claims 1-25.

32. An air conditioner, characterized in that, It includes the heat exchange device as described in any one of claims 1-25, or the thermal management system as described in any one of claims 26-29, or the indoor unit as described in claim 30, or the outdoor unit as described in claim 31.

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