Collector with a permanent closure for a refrigerant circuit

Abstract

A collector (S), preferably for a refrigerant circuit (100) for a motor vehicle, comprising: a pipe (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6), at least one cover (D1, D2, D3, D4), and an axial direction (AR). The pipe (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) each has at least one reduction (R1, R2, R3, R4, R5), and the at least one cover (D1, D2, D3, D4) each has at least one bulge (B1, B2, B3, B4). The at least one bulge (B1, B2, B3, B4) and the at least one reduction (R1, R2, R3, R4, R5) are in contact such that the at least one cover (D1, D2, D3, D4) closes the tube (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) in the axial direction (AR). The at least one cover (D1, D2, D3, D4) has a displacement in the axial direction (AR) approaching zero. The tube (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) has an inner surface (ZI). At least one sealing element (DE1, DE2) is arranged between the at least one cover (D1, D2, D3, D4) and the inner surface (ZI).A mechanical machining process for creating a fit between the at least one sealing element (DE1, DE2) and the inside (ZI) is missing.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a collector for a refrigerant circuit of a motor vehicle and to a method for producing the collector as well as to the use of the collector in a refrigerant circuit of a motor vehicle.

[0002] Document EP 1 533 580 A1 describes a condenser for a refrigerant circuit (for an air conditioning system) of a motor vehicle, comprising a finned-tube block with manifolds arranged on both sides and a collector. The collector is connected to a manifold via an inlet line and a drain line (inlet and outlet openings), and the collector contains a filter (filter device), a sealant (seal), and a desiccant (dry bag or dryer) for the refrigerant. The filter is formed integrally with a flow guide element and ends not far above the inlet line. The flow guide element ensures that the desiccant either does not enter the area of ​​the inlet line or that the flow cannot directly impact the dry bag. The collector is closed by two non-removable covers.The capacitor is assembled from its individual components and the header and joined in a soldering furnace. The filter and desiccant are inserted into the header after the capacitor has been soldered. The header is open on at least one side. The open end(s) of the header are then permanently sealed. The permanent closure is achieved using a welding process, with cooling of the area of ​​the header where the filter is located being provided if necessary. Using a welding process results in detrimental heat input into the header. The filter is made in one piece from a suitable plastic. At higher temperatures, plastics lose their rigidity and begin to melt. The heat input during welding can adversely damage the filter.The desiccant can also contain heat-sensitive components and can therefore be adversely damaged by the heat input. Damage can be avoided by cooling the area of ​​the collector where the filter and desiccant are located. Cooling adversely increases the energy required to manufacture the collector. Heat input through a material-to-material process such as welding leads to a heat-affected zone in the collector material. Collectors are often made of an aluminum alloy. The good thermal conductivity of the aluminum alloy can cause the formation of a very wide heat-affected zone. In a heat-affected zone, the properties of the material are poorer. Typical problems in the area of ​​a heat-affected zone are: increased brittleness, weld cracks, residual stresses, reduced strength, and reduced corrosion resistance.The resulting residual stresses and the reduced strength can be compensated for, for example, by a disadvantageous increase in the wall thickness of the tube. This also increases the weight of the header and results in higher costs. When the individual components of the capacitor are joined together with the header in the brazing furnace, the strength of the header material can deteriorate due to the temperature introduced during brazing. By using a manufacturing process for the tube such as extrusion, the strength of the finished tube is greater than the strength of the material in its initial state. This increase in the strength of the tube material is lost again in a brazing furnace. To compensate for this, a disadvantageous increase in the wall thickness of the tube may be necessary. This increase in wall thickness leads to greater material usage, more weight and higher costs.

[0003] The device according to the invention with the features of the independent patent claim has the advantage that the properties of the material of the pipe are retained or substantially retained and heat input to the filter and the desiccant can be avoided.

[0004] The starting point for the invention is a collector for a refrigerant circuit of a motor vehicle. The collector according to the invention can preferably be used in a refrigerant circuit for a motor vehicle, wherein the collector according to the invention can comprise: a tube, at least one cover, and an axial direction. A tube is understood to be an elongated hollow body. The tube can be shaped in the axial direction. It is conceivable for the tube to have a circular base area. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the tube to have an oval, polygonal, or a mixture of different geometric shapes as its base body. The axial direction can run parallel to the outer surface of the tube.The tube can each have at least one reduction and the at least one cover can each have at least one bulge, wherein the at least one bulge and the at least one reduction can touch each other so that the at least one cover can close the tube in the axial direction, wherein the at least one cover can have a displacement in the axial direction that tends towards zero. It is conceivable for the at least one bulge to be represented as a reduction in the outer diameter in a region of the at least one cover. For example, the bulge can be designed as a constriction in the form of a circumferential bead. Alternatively, the at least one bulge can be represented as an enlargement of the outer diameter of the at least one cover. For example, the bulge can be designed as a thickening of the outer diameter of the cover. The interior of the tube can be under pressure when the collector according to the invention is in operation.This pressure can load the at least one cover in the axial direction. Due to the at least one reduction, the at least one cover can no longer move in the axial direction. In this way, it can be ensured that the collector according to the invention is fluid-tight. A collector according to the invention can be tested before use with a significantly higher pressure than the pressure that occurs during operation. When testing a collector according to the invention, it may be possible that the at least one cover only moves in the axial direction at a significantly higher pressure and that the collector according to the invention is no longer fluid-tight only at a higher pressure. The at least one reduction can be produced, for example, using a radial pressing process. In a first exemplary embodiment, the tube can be open at both ends and have a circular base body.In this case, the tube of the collector according to the invention can be closed with two lids at each of its two ends. In a second exemplary embodiment, the tube can be open at the upper end and closed by a base at the lower end. Such a tube could, for example, be produced by a welding process from a circular base and a jacket surface. The circular base and the jacket surface can comprise a metallic material. In a further exemplary embodiment, the tube can be open at the upper end and closed at the lower end, for example by a fold. In a further exemplary embodiment, the tube can be open at the upper end and closed at the lower end. The tube and the base can be formed as a single piece. This is possible, for example, using the primary forming process and reverse extrusion manufacturing processes.

[0005] The tube of the collector according to the invention can have an inner side, wherein at least one sealing element can be arranged between the at least one cover and the inner side. In a further embodiment of the collector according to the invention, two sealing elements can be arranged between the at least one cover and the inner side. The two sealing elements can be arranged one behind the other in the axial direction. The first sealing element can seal the collector in a fluid-tight manner in the axial direction. Sealing in a fluid-tight manner means that only small or negligible amounts of a medium can pass through the connection. The second sealing element can be arranged downstream of the first sealing element in the axial direction and can advantageously prevent dirt such as dust from entering the collector. The two sealing elements can, for example, be represented as O-rings made of a plastic.In this case, the at least one cover can have two grooves. The two O-rings can be arranged in these two grooves. The two O-rings can rest against the inside of the tube and the surfaces of the grooves. In a further embodiment, the two sealing elements can be integrally connected to the at least one cover. The at least one cover can be made of a plastic, for example, and the two sealing elements can be molded onto it.

[0006] Mechanical processing for producing a fit between the at least one sealing element and the inside of the tube of the collector according to the invention can be omitted. In order to be able to close the collector according to the invention in a fluid-tight manner in the axial direction, the at least one sealing element requires a precise contact surface on the inside of the tube. This contact surface may only have very small deviations in the radial direction. The production of the at least one reducer can result in the end of the tube being formed onto the at least one cover in such a way that the contact surface for the at least one sealing element is also created. Prior processing for producing the contact surface and thus producing a fit is therefore not necessary. Fit is understood to be the dimensional relationship between two components, whereby the two components should fit together without reworking.

[0007] The tube of the collector according to the invention can have a first metallic material, wherein the first material can have a constant strength that can be greater than or at least equal to the strength of the first material before the tube is closed with at least one cover. It is possible for an aluminum alloy to be used as the first metallic material. Strength is understood to be the mechanical load-bearing capacity of the tube until it fails. A break or excessive permanent deformation of the tube can, for example, cause this failure. Material-bonding processes such as welding or soldering influence the strength of the tube, at least in some areas. When welding the collector and cover, the heat generated can create a disadvantageous heat-affected zone in which the strength can be significantly reduced.If the header and cover are soldered together in a furnace, the heat can reduce the strength of the first material. This reduction in the strength of the tube would have to be compensated for, for example, by a disadvantageous increase in the wall thickness of the tube. This can be avoided with the header according to the invention because the tube can be closed with at least one cover using a mechanical process. In this way, it is possible to use a tube with a smaller wall thickness and thus save material. The tube may be produced by a process such as extrusion. This process may increase the strength of the first material. Since the strength of the first material is at least not reduced by closing the tube with at least one cover, this increase in strength can be exploited to reduce the wall thickness even further.Strength refers to the mechanical resilience of a component until failure occurs. A fracture or excessive permanent deformation of the component can, for example, trigger this failure.

[0008] The at least one cover of the collector according to the invention can be formed in one piece. This makes it possible to produce the at least one cover in a simple manner, for example, by extrusion. The at least one cover can contain holes or recesses as passages for the inlet line and the outlet line of the collector according to the invention.

[0009] In a further embodiment of the collector according to the invention, the at least one first reduction of the first pipe can be formed as a circumferential bead and the at least one first bulge of the at least one first cover can be formed as a circumferential constriction. The circumferential constriction can be formed, for example, as a circumferential groove-shaped indented point on the first cover, whereby the first reduction can be formed as a circumferential bead. The circumferential bead can be groove-shaped. It is possible to permanently deform the first metallic material, for example by a radial pressing process. The first cover can have the first bulge before the first pipe is closed. In this way, the at least one first reduction can be produced, for example, by a radial pressing process in that the first material can be pressed into the first bulge.The at least one first cover can thus have a displacement in the axial direction which tends towards zero. The load on the at least one first cover due to pressure occurring inside the collector can thus advantageously be introduced into the pipe. In a further exemplary embodiment, the first cover can have a circumferential first edge. The first edge can have an outer diameter which is larger than the inner diameter(s) of the first pipe. In this way, the first cover can rest on the edge of the first pipe before the first reduction is produced, and slipping of the first cover into the first pipe can advantageously be prevented.

[0010] In a further embodiment of the collector according to the invention, the at least one second reduction in the second tube can be designed as a circumferential indentation and the at least one second bulge in the at least one second cover can be designed as a circumferential indentation. The circumferential indentation can, for example, have an increasingly smaller diameter in the axial direction. The at least one second cover can have the second bulge before the second tube is closed. In this way, the at least one second reduction can be produced by a radial pressing process in that the first material can be formed onto the second bulge. The at least one second cover can thus have a displacement in the axial direction that approaches zero. The load on the at least one second cover due to an even higher pressure occurring inside the collector can thus advantageously be introduced even better into the tube.

[0011] In a further embodiment of the collector according to the invention, the at least one second reduction of the third tube can be formed as a circumferential indentation and the at least one second bulge of the at least one second cover can be formed as a circumferential indentation. The third tube can have at least one further, at least partially continuous circumferential bead on the inside. This at least one circumferential bead can, for example, be formed as a circumferential groove-shaped depression by a radial pressing process. This at least one further bead can advantageously prevent the at least one second cover from slipping into the third tube before the third tube is closed. The circumferential indentation of the at least one second cover can, for example, have an increasingly smaller diameter in the axial direction.The at least one second cover can have the second bulge before the second tube is closed. In this way, the at least one second reduction can be created through a radial pressing process by molding the first material to the second bulge. The at least one second cover can thus exhibit a displacement in the axial direction approaching zero. The load on the at least one second cover due to a higher pressure inside the collector can thus be advantageously transferred into the tube.

[0012] In a further embodiment of the collector according to the invention, the fourth tube can have at least one third reduction. Wherein the at least one third reduction can have a recess and an undercut on the inside of the fourth tube. The recess can have a decreasing diameter in the axial direction, which then merges into a region with a constant diameter. The undercut on the inside of the fourth tube can be slightly beveled, wherein the third bulge of the at least one third cover can be designed as a stepped diameter in the axial direction. The at least one third cover can have the third bulge before the fourth tube is closed. In this way, the at least one fourth reduction can be produced, for example, by a radial pressing process in which the first material can be formed onto the third bulge.The at least one third cover can thus have a displacement in the axial direction that tends towards zero. The load on the at least one third cover due to an even higher pressure inside the collector can thus advantageously be introduced into the pipe. In a further exemplary embodiment, it is possible for the at least one third cover to have a third circumferential edge. The third edge can have an external diameter that is larger than the internal diameter of the fourth pipe, with the fourth cover resting on the edge of the fourth pipe with the aid of the third edge. In this way, slipping in of the at least one third cover before the at least one fourth reduction is produced can be prevented.

[0013] In a further embodiment according to the invention, the collector can have the fifth tube with at least one fourth reduction. The at least one fourth reduction of the fifth tube can have two circumferential beads and one circumferential indentation. The two beads can be groove-shaped. The indentation can have a straight portion and the indentation can have a larger outer diameter than the two beads. The at least one fourth bulge of the at least one fourth cover can be formed as a circumferential thickening. At the upper and lower ends of the fourth cover, the outer diameter can be smaller than in the area in between. In this way, the fourth bulge can arise as a thickening. The at least one fourth cover can have the fourth bulge before the fifth tube is closed.In this way, for example, the at least one fourth reduction can be produced through a radial pressing process by molding the first material to the fourth bulge. The at least one fourth cover can thus exhibit a displacement approaching zero in the axial direction. Two sealing elements can be arranged between the thickened portion of the fourth cover and the recess of the fifth tube. In this way, it is advantageously possible to achieve a good seal through high contact pressure between the thickened portion and the recess.

[0014] In a further embodiment according to the invention, the collector can have the sixth tube with at least one fifth reduction. For example, the fifth reduction can be arranged at the upper end of the sixth tube. The at least one fifth reduction can have three straight sections. The three sections can be parallel to the axial direction. The middle of the three sections can be formed as a circumferential thickening on the sixth tube and thus have a larger outer diameter than the other two sections of the fifth reduction. The at least one fourth bulge of the at least one fourth cover can be formed as a circumferential thickening. At the upper and lower ends of the at least one fourth cover, the outer diameter can be smaller than in the area in between. In this way, the fourth bulge can arise as a thickening.The at least one fourth cover can have the fourth bulge before the sixth tube is closed. In this way, the at least one fifth reduction can be produced, for example, by a radial pressing process in which the first material can be formed onto the fourth bulge. The at least one fourth cover can thus have a displacement in the axial direction that tends towards zero. Since the inner diameter of the sixth tube in front of or behind the fourth bulge is larger than the outer diameter of the fourth bulge, the load on the at least one fourth cover can advantageously be introduced into the sixth tube by an even higher pressure inside the collector. Two sealing elements can be arranged between the thickened portion of the fourth cover and the middle section of the fifth reduction of the sixth tube.In this way, it is possible to advantageously achieve a good seal by means of a high contact pressure between the thickening and the indentation.

[0015] The at least one cover can comprise a second metallic material or a third plastic material. It is possible for the second metallic material to be an aluminum alloy. Alternatively, it is possible for the second metallic material to be steel. In both cases, the at least one bulge can be produced, for example, by a radial pressing process or by extrusion. If the at least one cover comprises a third plastic material, the cover can be produced, for example, by an injection molding process. The at least one sealing element can advantageously be injection molded onto the cover. In this way, the costs for producing the cover can advantageously be reduced.

[0016] The first material can be plastically deformed in the area of ​​the at least one reduction. The first material can be a metallic material. Plastic deformation can be understood as the permanent deformation of a metallic material, for example, after a compressive load. In this way, the at least one reduction can be produced in a simple manner. The strength of the pipe is advantageously not significantly affected.

[0017] In a further embodiment, at least one filter can be arranged inside the collector pipe. A liquid medium can flow through the collector. With the help of a filter, coarse dirt particles and any chips still present from the production process can be filtered out of the medium. The collector can be used in a refrigerant circuit together with other components. The filter can protect the other components from damage and contamination. In a further embodiment of the collector, at least one desiccant can be arranged inside the pipe. The desiccant can be a desiccant bag, for example. The desiccant makes it possible to remove moisture from the medium. In this way, the components of the refrigerant circuit can be protected from corrosion and possible malfunctions of the refrigerant circuit caused by water can be prevented.In a further embodiment of the collector, at least one filter and a desiccant can be arranged inside the tube in order to filter a medium and remove moisture from the medium.

[0018] In a further embodiment of the collector according to the invention, the pipe can be connected to a connection plate. The collector can, for example, be used in a refrigerant circuit together with other components. Using the connection plate, the collector according to the invention can advantageously be connected to other components of the refrigerant circuit. It is conceivable to connect the collector to one of the components using a force-fitting method, such as clamping. Alternatively, it is possible for the collector to be connected to one of the components using a form-fitting method, such as pressing or with a screw connection. The connection plate and / or the pipe can contain bores as feedthroughs for the inlet line and the outlet line of the collector according to the invention.The other components of the refrigerant circuit can be, for example, a condenser, an expansion valve, a compressor, or an evaporator. The components can be used in a refrigerant circuit, for example, in the following ways: a condenser for condensing a refrigerant, a receiver according to the invention for collecting and storing the refrigerant, an expansion valve for expanding the refrigerant, an evaporator for evaporating the refrigerant, and a compressor for compressing the refrigerant.

[0019] In a further embodiment of the collector according to the invention, the at least one cover can be connected to a connection plate. The collector can, for example, be used in a refrigerant circuit together with other components. Using the connection plate, the collector according to the invention can advantageously be connected to other components of the refrigerant circuit. It is conceivable to connect the collector to one of the components using a force-fitting method, such as clamping. Alternatively, it is possible for the collector to be connected to one of the components using a form-fitting method, such as pressing or with a screw connection. The connection plate and / or the at least one cover can contain bores as feedthroughs for the inlet line and the outlet line of the collector according to the invention.

[0020] The inventive method for producing the collector according to the inventive embodiments can comprise the following steps. In a first step, the pipe can be produced together with the connecting plate. It is conceivable for the pipe to be extruded together with the connecting plate from a metallic material such as an aluminum alloy. Alternatively, it is possible to reverse-extrude or weld the pipe. In a subsequent step, an inlet line and an outlet line can be produced. For example, by drilling a hole in each of the pipes. Subsequently, two seals can be positioned on a first cover. In the following step, the first cover can be positioned at the lower end of the pipe. A rim on the cover or a bead in the pipe prevents the first cover from slipping into the pipe.Subsequently, a first reduction can be created at the lower end of the pipe. It is possible that the first reduction is created using a radial pressing process. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the first reduction is created using a rolling process. At the same time, a contact surface for the two seals can be created inside the pipe together with a preload for the two seals so that the pipe is sealed fluid-tight and dust-tight at the lower end by the first cover. In a subsequent step, at least one filter and / or at least one desiccant can be introduced into the pipe. Subsequently, two sealing elements can be positioned on a second cover. In a subsequent step, the second cover can be positioned at the upper end of the pipe. A rim on the cover or a bead in the pipe prevents the second cover from slipping into the pipe.Subsequently, a second reduction can be created at the upper end of the tube. It is possible for the second reduction to be created using a radial pressing process. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the second reduction to be created using a rolling process. At the same time, a contact surface for the two sealing elements can be created on the inside of the tube, along with a preload for the two sealing elements, so that the tube is sealed fluid-tight and dust-tight at the upper end by the second cover.

[0021] The refrigerant circuit according to the invention for a motor vehicle can have the following components: a condenser for condensing a refrigerant, a collector according to the invention for collecting and storing the refrigerant, an expansion valve for expanding the refrigerant, an evaporator for evaporating the refrigerant, a compressor for compressing the refrigerant and the connecting lines, wherein a refrigerant flows through the refrigerant circuit. It is conceivable that R1234yf, for example, flows through the refrigerant circuit. Alternatively, it is possible for carbon dioxide (R744), propane (R290), or R134a to flow through the refrigerant circuit. With the help of the evaporator, heat can be extracted from the interior of a motor vehicle, for example, and this heat can be released to the environment via the condenser.The collector according to the invention advantageously serves to increase the efficiency of the refrigerant circuit under different ambient conditions by storing refrigerant in the collector according to the invention and releasing it again when needed. The collector according to the invention can be designed in such a way that, among other things, phase separation of a refrigerant having gaseous and liquid components can take place therein, partly through gravity. Different ambient conditions can be understood, for example, as the different seasons. Since the refrigeration circuit is closed and has only a maximum of one collector according to the invention, the refrigeration circuit can function in a self-regulating manner with the aid of the collector according to the invention. The refrigerant circuit can have a high-pressure part with the condenser and a low-pressure part with the evaporator. In the high-pressure part, the refrigerant has a significantly higher pressure than in the low-pressure part.In a first exemplary embodiment, the collector according to the invention can be arranged in the high-pressure section downstream of the condenser. It is possible that the vaporous refrigerant in the condenser is not completely liquefied by cooling under pressure and therefore still contains vaporous components. By arranging the collector according to the invention downstream of the condenser, it can be ensured that only saturated liquid refrigerant can escape from the collector according to the invention. It is possible that the refrigerant exiting the collector according to the invention is further subcooled. The refrigerant can be further subcooled, for example, in a subcooling section of the condenser or another (internal) heat exchanger.

[0022] In a second embodiment, the collector according to the invention can be arranged in the low-pressure section downstream of the evaporator. It is possible that the liquid refrigerant in the evaporator is not completely evaporated by the supply and still contains liquid components. By arranging the collector according to the invention downstream of the evaporator, it can be ensured that only saturated vaporous refrigerant can escape from the collector according to the invention. Fig. 1 Exploded view of a collector according to the invention Fig. 2a, sectional view of a collector according to the invention with a first tube, with a first cover and with a first reduction Fig. 2b Sectional view of a collector according to the invention with a second tube, with a second cover and with a second reduction Fig. 2c Sectional view of a collector according to the invention with a third tube, with a bead on the inside, with a second cover and with a second reduction Fig. 2d Sectional view of a collector according to the invention with a fourth tube, with a third cover and with a third reduction Fig. 2e Sectional view of a collector according to the invention with a fifth tube, with a fourth cover and with a fourth reduction Fig. 2f Sectional view of a collector according to the invention with a sixth tube, with a fourth cover and with a fifth reduction Fig. 3a, Fig. 3b Sketch of a refrigerant circuit according to the invention

[0023] In Fig. 1 shows an exploded view of a collector S in a first embodiment according to the invention. A medium (not shown) can be collected, dried, filtered, and stored in the collector S. The collector S has the first tube RZ1. The first tube RZ1 is represented by a cylindrical hollow body which is open at a lower end and at an upper end. The axial direction AR runs along the longer side of the first tube RZ1 from bottom to top, wherein the first tube RZ1 can have a first metallic material. For example, the first tube RZ1 can consist of an aluminum alloy. It is conceivable for the first cylindrical hollow body to be produced by extrusion. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the first tube RZ1 to be produced by impact molding. The plate P is connected to the first tube RZ1.

[0024] The plate P can, for example, be manufactured at the same time as the first pipe RZ1 is manufactured. The collector S can, for example, be connected to the plate P in a force-fitting or form-fitting manner, using a condenser (not shown). The plate P and the first pipe RZ1 have an inlet line ZL and a drain line AL for introducing and discharging a medium (not shown) into the collector S. A filter F for filtering the medium (not shown) is arranged inside the collector S. The filter F can, for example, be made of a plastic. The desiccant T arranged inside the collector S serves to dry the medium (not shown). The desiccant can, for example, be a drying bag. The first pipe RZ1 is closed with two first covers D1 at the top and bottom. For this purpose, the two first covers D1 each have the first bulge B1 in the form of a circumferential bead.It is possible for the two first covers D1 to be made of a second metallic material. The two first covers D1 can, for example, be made of an aluminum alloy. However, it is also conceivable for the two first covers D1 to be made of a third material made of plastic. For example, using a radial pressing process, the two first reducers R1 can each be created in the form of a circumferential bead, with the two first reducers R1 and the two first bulges B1 touching each other. The first pipe RZ1 is sealed axially fluid-tight at the top and bottom using two second sealing elements DE2. Two additional first sealing elements DE1 are arranged in front of each in the axial direction AR. These two first sealing elements DE1 are intended to prevent the penetration of protection into the collector S. For example, the sealing elements DE1, DE2 can each be represented by an O-ring made of a plastic material.Since no or only a negligible amount of heat is generated when closing the collector S with the two first covers D1, damage to the filter F and desiccant T caused by excessively high temperatures can be advantageously avoided. A reduction in the strength of the first tube RZ1 caused by excessively high temperatures can also be advantageously avoided.

[0025] Shown in Fig. 2 shows a section through the upper part of the collector S according to the invention in a first embodiment according to the invention and further embodiments according to the invention. The section runs along one of the planes of symmetry of the tube RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6. The tube RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6 is designed as an elongated hollow cylinder. The upper part of the collector S is shown in each case. The collector S has the tube RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6, the cover D1, D2, D3, D4 and the reducer R1, R2, R3, R4, R5. The axial direction AR runs along the longer side of the tube RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6 in the direction of the cover D1, D2, D3, D4. The cover D1, D2, D3 closes the tube RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6 in the axial direction, whereby the cover D1, D2, D3, D4 has the bulge B1, B2, B3, B4.The cover D1, D2, D3, D4 has the bulge B1, B2, B3, B4 completely or at least almost completely before the cover D1, D2, D3, D4 is installed in the tube RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6. It is conceivable that the cover D1, D2, D3, D4 is made of a second metallic material. For example, the cover D1, D2, D3, D4 can be made of an aluminum alloy and manufactured by extrusion. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the cover D1, D2, D3, D4 is made of a plastic. For example, the cover D1, D2, D3, D4 can be manufactured using an injection molding process. The tube RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6 has the inner side ZI on the inner wall. The tube RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6 has an inner diameter DI and an outer diameter DA. Two sealing elements DE1, DE2 are arranged between the inner surface ZI and the cover D1, D2, D3, D4. The cover D1, D2, D3, D4 each has two circumferential grooves.One of the two sealing elements DE1, DE2 is arranged in each of the two grooves. These two sealing elements DE1, DE1 can be represented, for example, by O-rings made of a plastic, whereby the bulge B1, B2, B3, B4 and the reducer R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 touch each other and thus create a connection between the cover D1, D2, D3, D4 and the pipe RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6. This connection can, for example, be represented as a force-fitting connection and / or a form-fitting connection. The interior of the collector S can be under pressure. The connection advantageously prevents movement (e.g. pressing open) of the cover D1, D2, D3, D4 in the axial direction. The contact surface on the inner side ZI for the two sealing elements DE1, DE2 is created together with the production of the reducer R1, R2, R3, R4, R5.Advantageously, the connection between the inner side ZI and the support surface and the cover D1, D2, D3, D4 can prevent the formation of gaps. The two grooves in the cover D1, D2, D3, D4 can be designed to provide the necessary preload, together with the inner side ZI, for the sealing effect of the two sealing elements DE1, DE2. The second sealing element DE2 seals the pipe RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6 in a fluid-tight manner in the axial direction AR. The first sealing element DE1 prevents the penetration of protection into the collector S according to the invention. The pipe RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6 has a first metallic material. For example, the pipe RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6 can be made of an aluminum alloy. The reduction R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 can be manufactured, for example, by a radial pressing process.Large deformations of the first material occur in the area of ​​reduction R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 and plastic deformations of the first material can occur in this area.

[0026] In Fig. 2a shows a section of the upper part of the collector S along a plane of symmetry in a first embodiment according to the invention. The first tube RZ1 has the first reduction R1, wherein the first cover D1 has the first bulge B1. The first reduction R1 is designed as a circumferential bead and the first bulge B1 is designed as a circumferential constriction. The first cover D1 has the circumferential first edge DR1. The first edge DR1 has a larger outer diameter than the inner diameter DI. The first edge DR1 rests on the upper edge of the first tube RZ1. Slipping of the first cover D1 into the first tube RZ1 before the first reduction R1 is produced can thus be prevented. In this way, the position of the first cover D1 can be advantageously ensured.

[0027] Shown in Fig. 2b shows a section of the upper part of the collector S along a plane of symmetry in a second embodiment according to the invention. The second tube RZ2 has the second reduction R2, with the second cover D2 having the second bulge B2. The second reduction R2 and the second bulge B2 are designed as a circumferential indentation, with the circumferential indentation having an increasingly smaller outer diameter in the axial direction AR.

[0028] In Fig. 2c shows a section of the upper part of the collector S along a plane of symmetry in a third embodiment according to the invention. The third tube RZ3 has the second reduction R2, wherein the second cover D2 has the second bulge B2. The second reduction R2 and the second bulge B2 are designed as a circumferential indentation, wherein the indentation is each flattened towards the inside of the third tube RZ3. The third tube RZ3 additionally has the circumferential bead ZS on the inner side ZI. For example, the circumferential bead ZS can be produced by extrusion during the production of the third tube RZ3. The second cover D2 rests on the circumferential bead ZS. This can prevent the second cover D2 from slipping into the third tube RZ3 before the second reduction R2 is produced. In this way, the position of the second cover D2 can advantageously be ensured.

[0029] Shown in Fig. 2d a section of the upper part of the collector S along a plane of symmetry in a fourth embodiment according to the invention. The fourth tube RZ4 has the third reduction R3. The third reduction R3 is shown as a recess with an inclined and a straight portion. The inclined portion has an increasingly smaller outer diameter in the axial direction. The third reduction R3 has an undercut on the inside ZI, wherein the undercut on the fourth tube RZ4 is produced, for example, together with the third reduction R3. The third cover D3 has the third bulge B3, also designed as an undercut. For example, the undercut on the third cover D3 can be produced by extrusion. The third bulge B3 is straight.The third cover D3 has a circumferential third edge DR3, with the third edge DR3 having a larger outer diameter than the inner diameter DI and resting on the upper edge of the fourth tube RZ4. The undercuts on the third cover D3 and the third tube RZ3, together with the third edge DR3, ensure the position of the third cover D4 before manufacturing the third reduction R3.

[0030] Shown in Fig. 2e a section of the upper part of the collector S along a plane of symmetry in a fifth embodiment according to the invention. The fifth tube RZ5 has the fourth reduction R4. The fourth reduction R4 is shown as two circumferential beads and one circumferential recess. The two circumferential beads are arranged one behind the other in the axial direction. The recess is straight in sections in the axial direction and arranged between the two circumferential beads. The fourth cover D4 has the fourth bulge B4. The fourth bulge B4 is pronounced as a circumferential thickening. At the upper and lower ends of the fourth cover, the outer diameter is smaller than the outer diameter of the thickening. The two sealing elements DE1, DE2 are arranged in the region of the thickening of the fourth cover D4.

[0031] In Fig. 2f shows a section of the upper part of the collector along a plane of symmetry in a sixth embodiment according to the invention. The sixth tube RZ6 has the fifth reduction R5. The fifth reduction has three sectionally straight sections. The three sections are parallel to the axial direction AR. The middle of the three sections in the axial direction AR is pronounced as a thickened portion. The fourth cover D4 has the fourth bulge B4. The fourth bulge B4 is pronounced as a circumferential thickened portion. At the upper and lower ends of the fourth cover, the outer diameter is smaller than the outer diameter of the thickened portion. The two sealing elements DE1, DE2 are arranged in the region of the thickened portion of the fourth cover D4. The position of the fourth cover D4 can be advantageously ensured by the fourth bulge B4 and the fifth reduction R5.

[0032] In Fig. 3 shows the sketch of a refrigerant circuit 100 in a first embodiment according to the invention and in a second embodiment according to the invention, wherein the refrigerant circuit 100 is flowed through by a refrigerant.

[0033] For example, the refrigerant R1234yf flows through the refrigerant circuit 100. The refrigerant circuit 100 has the following components: a condenser KO for condensing a refrigerant, a collector S according to the invention for collecting and storing the refrigerant, an expansion valve EV for expanding the refrigerant, an evaporator VD for evaporating the refrigerant, and a compressor KP for compressing the refrigerant. With the help of the evaporator VD, for example, heat can be extracted from the interior of a motor vehicle and this heat can be released to the environment via the condenser KO. The collector S according to the invention serves to increase the efficiency of the refrigerant circuit 100 under various ambient conditions by storing refrigerant in the collector S according to the invention and releasing it again when needed. The refrigerant can have gaseous and liquid components simultaneously.The inventive receiver S is designed so that phase separation can occur within it through gravity. Different ambient conditions can be understood, for example, as the different seasons. Since the refrigerant circuit 100 is closed and has only one inventive receiver S, the receiver S functions in a self-regulating manner. In the high-pressure section with the condenser KO, the pressure is significantly higher than in the low-pressure section with the evaporator VD.

[0034] Shown in Fig. 3a shows the sketch of the refrigerant circuit 100 in a first embodiment of the invention. The inventive receiver S is arranged in the high-pressure section behind the condenser KO. This arrangement ensures that only saturated liquid refrigerant exits the inventive receiver S.

[0035] In Fig.Figure 3b shows a sketch of the refrigerant circuit 100 in a second embodiment of the invention. The inventive collector S is arranged in the low-pressure section behind the evaporator VD. This arrangement ensures that only saturated vaporous refrigerant escapes from the inventive collector S. List of reference symbols S inventive collector AR axial direction D1, D2, D3, D4 lid according to the invention B1, B2, B3, B4 inventive bulging R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 reduction according to the invention RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, pipe according to the invention RZ4, RZ5, RZ6 ZI Inside of the pipe according to the invention P Plate for mounting the collector according to the invention ZL supply line for a refrigerant AL drain line for a refrigerant DE1, DE2 sealing element F filter element arranged in the collector according to the invention T Desiccant arranged in the collector according to the invention DR1, DR3 edge on the first and third lids according to the invention ZS bead on the inside of the third pipe according to the invention DI inner diameter of the pipe according to the invention DA Outer diameter of the pipe according to the invention 100 inventive refrigerant circuit VD evaporator arranged in the refrigerant circuit according to the invention KP compressor arranged in the refrigerant circuit according to the invention KO compressor arranged in the refrigerant circuit according to the invention EV expansion valve arranged in the refrigerant circuit according to the invention QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 1 533 580 A1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Collector (S) preferably for a refrigerant circuit (100) for a motor vehicle, comprising: - one pipe (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) - at least one lid (D1, D2, D3, D4) - an axial direction (AR), characterized by that the tube (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) has at least one reduction (R1, R2, R3, R4, R5) and the at least one cover (D1, D2, D3, D4) has at least one bulge (B1, B2, B3, B4), wherein the at least one bulge (B1, B2, B3, B4) and the at least one reduction (R1, R2, R3, R4, R5) touch each other, so that the at least one cover (D1, D2, D3, D4) closes the tube (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) in the axial direction (AR), wherein the at least one cover (D1, D2, D3, D4) has a displacement in the axial direction (AR) that tends towards zero. [2] Collector (S) according to claim 1, characterized bythat the pipe (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) has an inner side (ZI), wherein at least one sealing element (DE1, DE2) is arranged between the at least one cover (D1, D2, D3, D4) and the inner side (ZI). [3] Collector (S) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that mechanical processing for producing a fit between the at least one sealing element (DE1, DE2) and the inner side (ZI) is missing. [4] Collector (S) according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized by that the tube (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) has a first metallic material, wherein the first material has a constant strength which is greater than or at least equal to the strength of the first material before closing the tube (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) with at least one cover (D1, D2, D3, D4). [5] Collector (S) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat at least one cover (D1, D2, D3, D4) is formed in one piece. [6] Collector (S) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one first reduction (R1) of the first tube (R1) is designed as a circumferential bead and the at least one first bulge (B1) of the at least one first cover (D1) is designed as a circumferential constriction. [7] Collector (S) according to claims 1-5, characterized by that the at least one second reduction (R2) of the second or third tube (RZ2, RZ3) is designed as a circumferential indentation and the at least one second bulge (B2) of the at least one second cover (D2) is designed as a circumferential indentation. [8] Collector (S) according to claim 7, characterized by that the third tube (R3) has at least one further, at least partially connected circumferential bead (ZS) on the inner side (ZI). [9] Collector (S) according to claims 1-5, characterized bythat the at least one third reduction (R3) of the fourth tube (RZ4) has a circumferential indentation and a circumferential undercut on the inner side (ZI), wherein the at least one third bulge (B3) of the at least one third cover (D3) is designed as a stepped diameter. [10] Collector (S) according to claims 1-5, characterized by that the at least one fourth reduction (R4) of the fifth tube (RZ5) has two circumferential beads and a circumferential indentation, wherein the at least one fourth bulge (B4) of the at least one fourth cover (D4) is formed as a circumferential thickening. [11] Collector (S) according to claims 1-5, characterized byin that the at least one fifth reduction (R5) of the sixth tube (RZ6) has at least three straight sections, wherein the three straight sections are parallel to the axial direction (AR), wherein the middle of the three sections is formed as a circumferential thickening on the sixth tube (RZ6), wherein the at least one fourth bulge (B4) of the at least one fourth cover (D4) is formed as a circumferential thickening. [12] Collector (S) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one cover (D1, D2, D3, D4) has a second metallic material or a third plastic material. [13] Collector (S) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the first material is plastically deformed in the area of at least one reduction (R1, R2, R3, R4, R5). [14] Collector (S) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat at least one filter (F) and / or at least one desiccant (T) are arranged inside the tube (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6). [15] Collector (S) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the pipe (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) is connected to a connecting plate (P). [16] Collector (S) according to claims 1-14, characterized by that at least one cover (D1, D2, D3, D4) is connected to a connecting plate (P). [17] Method for producing the collector (S) according to claims 1-16, comprising the following method steps: - Manufacture of the pipe (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) with the connection plate P - Construction of an inlet line (ZL) and an outlet line (AL) - Positioning of two seals (DE1, DE2) on a first cover (D1, D2, D3, D4) - Positioning of the first cover (D1, D2, D3, D4) at the lower end of the tube (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) - Creation of a first reduction (R1, R2, R3, R4, R5) at the lower end of the pipe (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) by a radial pressing process or a rolling process, so that the pipe (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) is fluid-tightly closed at the lower end by the first cover (D1, D2, D3, D4). - Insertion of at least one filter (F) and / or at least one desiccant (T) into the pipe (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) - Positioning of two seals (DE1, DE2) on a second cover (D1, D2, D3, D4) - Positioning of the second cover (D1, D2, D3, D4) at the upper end of the tube (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) - Creation of a second reduction (R1, R2, R3, R4, R5) at the upper end of the pipe (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) by a radial pressing process or a rolling process, so that the pipe (RZ1, RZ2, RZ3, RZ4, RZ5, RZ6) is fluid-tightly closed at the upper end by the second cover (D1, D2, D3, D4). [18] Refrigerant circuit (100) for a motor vehicle comprising: - a compressor (KP) - a capacitor (KO) - an evaporator (VD) - a collector (S) according to at least one of claims 1-16 characterized by that the collector (S) is arranged after the condenser (KO) in the refrigerant circuit (100) or that the collector (S) is arranged after the evaporator (VD) in the refrigerant circuit (100).

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