Collecting line, heat exchanger, method for producing a collecting line and method for producing a heat exchanger

Abstract

A manifold (2) comprises an outer tube (5) to which a plurality of heat transfer tubes (3) are connected, and an inner tube (6) which is inserted into the outer tube (5) and has a plurality of pores (6a) in the side surface. The manifold (2) comprises a plurality of supports (8) which are spaced from one another in a longitudinal direction of the outer tube (5) and support the inner tube (6). A space between the inner tube (6) and the outer tube (5) has a clearance so that a refrigerant in the manifold (2) can flow through the plurality of supports (8) in a longitudinal direction of the manifold (2).

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a manifold, a heat exchanger, a method for manufacturing the manifold and a method for manufacturing the heat exchanger. Technological background

[0002] A heat exchanger is a component of a refrigeration cycle and typically comprises two header pipes and several heat transfer tubes connecting them. One of the header pipes is connected to a channel located upstream in the refrigeration cycle, and refrigerant flows into the header pipe from upstream. The refrigerant entering the header pipe is distributed into the heat transfer tubes and flows through them into the other header pipe. The refrigerant flowing into the other header pipe then collects in it. This header pipe is connected to a channel located downstream in the refrigeration cycle, and the collected refrigerant flows downstream out of the circuit.

[0003] The refrigerant exchanges heat with the ambient air as it flows through the heat transfer tubes. If the refrigerant flowing through the heat transfer tubes is at a higher temperature than the ambient air, it is cooled. If the refrigerant flowing through the heat transfer tubes is at a lower temperature than the ambient air, it is heated. The heat exchanger typically includes several heat transfer fins that intersect and are in thermal contact with the heat transfer tubes. The heat transfer fins increase the surface area of ​​the heat exchanger for transferring heat to the ambient air and improve the heat exchange efficiency.

[0004] Patent literature 1 describes a flat-tube evaporator, which is an example of a heat exchanger. An inlet manifold contained within the flat-tube evaporator corresponds to the upstream manifold in the heat exchanger, and the flat tubes correspond to the heat transfer tubes. A distribution tube, comprising several openings, is inserted into the inlet manifold. The refrigerant, flowing upstream in the refrigeration cycle, is guided through the distribution tube, flows out of the distribution tube through the openings, and is directed into the flat tubes. The refrigerant flows through the flat tubes into an outlet manifold.

[0005] As described above, the manifold in the flat-tube evaporator described in patent reference 1 comprises an outer tube connected to the heat transfer tubes and an inner tube inserted into the outer tube, the inner tube having several pores in its side surface. In the flat-tube evaporator described in patent reference 1, the refrigerant flowing into the outer tube is guided through the inner tube, flows out of the inner tube through the pores, and is directed into the flat tube. The refrigerant can thus be distributed evenly to the multiple heat transfer tubes. Citation list for patent literature

[0006] Patent literature 1: Unexamined Japanese patent application, publication number 2005-180910 Brief description of the invention: Technical problem

[0007] However, as in Fig. As shown in patent literature 1, the inner tube cantilevers / is self-supporting at one end of the outer tube. The position of the inner tube relative to the outer tube is therefore unstable. In particular, the inner tube can bend due to heat during brazing and be displaced relative to the outer tube during the manufacturing process of the manifold. The inner tube, displaced relative to the outer tube, alters the refrigerant flow in the manifold and may not achieve its designed performance.

[0008] In response to the above problem, one objective of the present disclosure is to provide a manifold in which an inner tube is stably held by an outer tube, to provide a heat exchanger incorporating the manifold, to provide a method for manufacturing the manifold, and to provide a method for manufacturing the heat exchanger. Solution to the problem

[0009] To achieve the aforementioned objective, a manifold according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises an outer tube to which several heat transfer tubes are connected, an inner tube inserted into the outer tube and having several pores, and several supports spaced apart from one another in a longitudinal direction of the outer tube and holding the inner tube. A space between the inner tube and the outer tube provides clearance to allow a refrigerant in the manifold to flow through the several supports in a longitudinal direction of the manifold. Advantageous effects of the invention

[0010] The structure according to the preceding aspect of the present disclosure comprises the multiple supports, and the inner tube is held by the supports through the outer tube. In other words, the inner tube is held at multiple points. The inner tube is thus stably held by the outer tube and is less likely to displace relative to the outer tube. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is a front view of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, comprising manifolds; Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of each manifold that is in the heat exchanger of Fig. 1 is included, which represents the internal structure; Fig. 3A is a cross-sectional view of the collector line along line III A -III A from Fig. 2, when viewed in the direction indicated by the arrows; Fig. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the collector pipe along line III B -III B from Fig. 2, when viewed in the direction indicated by the arrows; Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the collector line along line IV-IV of Fig. 2, when viewed in the direction indicated by the arrows; Fig. 5A is a diagram illustrating a process for manufacturing the manifold according to the embodiment of the present disclosure within a time sequence; Fig. 5B is a diagram illustrating the process of manufacturing the manifold according to the embodiment of the present disclosure within a time sequence; Fig. 5C is a diagram illustrating the process for manufacturing the manifold according to the embodiment of the present disclosure within a time sequence; Fig. 5D is a diagram illustrating the process of manufacturing the manifold according to the embodiment of the present disclosure within a time sequence; Fig. 5E is a diagram illustrating the process for manufacturing the manifold according to the embodiment of the present disclosure within a time sequence; Fig. 5F is a diagram illustrating the process of manufacturing the manifold according to the embodiment of the present disclosure within a time sequence; Fig. 6A is a diagram illustrating a process for attaching a cover to a body in an outer pipe of the manifold according to the embodiment of the present disclosure within a sequence of times; Fig. 6B is a diagram illustrating the process of attaching the cover to the body in the outer pipe of the manifold according to the embodiment of the present disclosure within a sequence of times; Fig. 6C is a diagram illustrating the process of attaching the cover to the body in the outer pipe of the manifold according to the embodiment of the present disclosure within a sequence of times; Fig. 7A is a top view of a fastening element in the embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the details of the shape; Fig. 7B is a top view of a fastener in a modification, which top view shows the details of the shape; Fig. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a collector pipe according to a first modification, which represents the internal structure; Fig. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a collector pipe according to a second modification, which shows the internal structure; Fig. 10A is a side view of an outer pipe contained in a manifold, according to a third modification, which side view represents the outer shape; Fig. 10B is a cross-sectional view of the outer tube along line XX of Fig. 10A, when viewed in the direction indicated by the arrows; Fig. 10C is a top view of the external shape of a support contained in the collector pipe, according to the third modification; Fig. 10D is a diagram of the carrier of Fig. 10C, which is attached to the outer pipe of Fig. 10B is attached; Fig. 11A is a side view of an outer pipe contained in a manifold according to a fourth modification, which side view represents the outer shape; Fig. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the outer tube along line XI-XI of Fig. 11A, when viewed in the direction indicated by the arrows; Fig. 11C is a top view of a support contained in the collector conduit according to the fourth modification, which top view represents the external shape; Fig. 11D is a diagram of the carrier of Fig. 11C, which is attached to the outer tube of Fig. 11B is attached; Fig. 12A is a cross-sectional view of a body and the support along line XI. d -XI d from Fig. 11D, when viewed in the direction indicated by the arrows, which cross-sectional view shows the shapes of fillets on a mounting groove and a projection; Fig. Figure 12B is a cross-sectional view of a body and a beam in another example similar to that in Fig. 12A, which shows the cross-sectional view of the shapes of fillets on a mounting groove and a projection; Fig. Figure 13A is a cross-sectional view of an outer tube in a modification of the embodiment of the present disclosure similar to that in Fig. 3A; and Fig. Figure 13B is a cross-sectional view of an outer tube in a further modification of the embodiment of the present disclosure similar to that in Fig. 3A. Description of embodiments

[0011] The structures and functions of a manifold and a heat exchanger according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the drawings. In the figures, identical reference numerals denote identical or corresponding components. Overall structure of the heat exchanger

[0012] Fig. Figure 1 is a front view of a heat exchanger 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, comprising manifolds 2. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the heat exchanger 1 comprises two manifolds 2 arranged parallel to each other, several heat transfer tubes 3 arranged between the two manifolds 2 to allow a refrigerant to flow between the two manifolds 2, and several heat transfer fins 4 intersecting and in thermal contact with the several heat transfer tubes 3.

[0013] The heat exchanger 1 is a component of a refrigeration circuit (not shown). One of the two manifolds 2 is connected to a channel located upstream in the refrigeration circuit, and the refrigerant flows from the channel into manifold 2. The refrigerant flowing into manifold 2 is distributed to the several heat transfer tubes 3 and flows through the heat transfer tubes 3 into the other manifold 2. The other manifold 2 is connected to a channel located downstream in the refrigeration circuit, and the refrigerant flowing into the other manifold 2 flows out into the downstream channel.

[0014] As the refrigerant flows through the heat transfer tubes 3, the air around the heat exchanger 1 and the refrigerant exchange heat with each other. The heat exchanger 1, comprising several heat transfer fins 4, has a larger surface area for transferring heat to the air around it. The heat exchanger 1 therefore has a higher heat exchange efficiency. Structure of the collection line

[0015] Fig. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a respective manifold 2 contained within the heat exchanger 1, which cross-sectional view represents the internal structure. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the collecting pipe 2 comprises an outer pipe 5, which serves as an outer wall of the collecting pipe 2, and an inner pipe 6, which is inserted into the outer pipe 5. The inner pipe 6 has several pores 6a in lateral sections of its surface, extending through the surface. The pores 6a are arranged in two rows at regular intervals along the longitudinal direction of the inner pipe 6.

[0016] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the manifold 2 comprises two fastening elements 7, spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube 5, to fasten the sections of the inner tube 6 adjacent to the two ends to the outer tube 5. As described later, the fastening elements 7 close gaps between the inner tube 6 and the outer tube 5. The fastening elements 7 thus hermetically seal a space between the inner tube 6 and the outer tube 5 in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube 5. The multiple pores 6a in the inner tube 6 are arranged between the two fastening elements 7. The end of the inner tube 6 shown on the right in the figure is closed.

[0017] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 2, several supports 8 are arranged in the space bounded by the two fastening elements 7, between the inner tube 6 and the outer tube 5. The supports 8 are attached to the outer tube 5 and hold the inner tube 6.

[0018] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 2, covers 9 are attached to both ends of the outer tube 5 in the longitudinal direction. The covers 9 are fitted into the two ends of the outer tube 5 to hermetically seal them. The manifold 2 includes an extraction pipe 10. The refrigerant flowing into and out of the manifold 2 flows through the extraction pipe 10 into and out of the outer tube 5.

[0019] As described above, the inner tube 6, with its multiple fastening elements 7 and supports 8, is held in place by the outer tube 5 and thus securely anchored within the manifold 2. This reduces the likelihood of displacement of the inner tube 6 during the subsequent manufacturing process of the manifold 2. This structure therefore facilitates the manufacturing of the manifold 2 and stabilizes its performance.

[0020] If the manifold 2 is connected to a channel located upstream of the manifold 2 in the refrigeration circuit (not shown), the refrigerant flowing from the upstream channel flows through the delivery line 10 into a space between one of the covers 9 and one of the fasteners 7, which is located in Fig. 2 on the left. The refrigerant flowing into the space between the cover 9 and the fastening element 7 then flows into the inner tube 6. The refrigerant flowing into the inner tube 6 flows through the multiple pores 6a in the inner tube 6 and is distributed to the multiple heat transfer tubes 3. The refrigerant then flows through the heat transfer tubes 3 into the other manifold 2.

[0021] The refrigerant flowing through the heat transfer pipes 3 into the other manifold 2 flows through the multiple pores 6a in the inner pipe 6 into the inner pipe 6 in the other manifold 2. The refrigerant flowing into the inner pipe 6 flows in the other manifold 2 into the space between the cover 9 and the fastening element 7, which is located in Fig. 2 is located on the left, and then flows through the delivery line 10 into the channel which is located downstream of the collector line 2 in the refrigeration circuit (not shown). Structure of the fastening element

[0022] Fig. 3A is a cross-sectional view of the collector line 2 along a route through line III. A -III A in Fig. 2 specified levels. Fig. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the collector line 2 along a route through line III B -III B in Fig. 2 specified level. As in the Fig. 3A and Fig. As shown in Figure 3B, each fastener 7 seals the entire gap between the inner tube 6 and the outer tube 5. The inner tube 6 extends through each fastener 7. Each fastener 7 is soldered to both the inner tube 6 and the outer tube 5. The solder fills any small gaps between the fastener 7 and the inner tube 6, and between the fastener 7 and the outer tube 5. The fasteners 7 thus hermetically seal the space between the inner tube 6 and the outer tube 5 along the longitudinal direction of the outer tube 5.

[0023] As in the Fig. 3A and Fig. As shown in 3B, the outer tube 5 comprises a combination of a body 5a with a U-shaped cross-section and a base plate 5b that closes the open end of the body 5a in the U-shaped cross-section. Structure of the carrier

[0024] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the collector line 2 along a line through line IV-IV in Fig. 2 specified level. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, each support 8 is arranged between the inner tube 6 and the outer tube 5 to hold the inner tube 6. The inner tube 6 extends through each support 8.

[0025] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, a first clearance 8a is defined between each support 8 and the outer tube 5. When the manifold 2 is viewed in plan view along its longitudinal direction, all sections of the heat transfer tubes 3 projecting into the outer tube 5 are visible in the first clearance 8a. This structure prevents the supports 8 and the heat transfer tubes 3 from obstructing each other. Furthermore, it reduces the likelihood that the flow of the refrigerant entering and exiting the heat transfer tubes 3 will be affected by the supports 8.

[0026] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, secondary clearances 8b are defined between the inner tube 6 and each support 8. These secondary clearances 8b are arranged symmetrically on two sections of the inner tube 6. The secondary clearances 8b are positioned such that the pores 6a face the secondary clearances 8b. Therefore, the support 8 does not close the pores 6a when it overlaps them. Consequently, the mounting positions of the supports 8 can be chosen independently of the positions of the pores 6a.

[0027] With the first free space 8a between each support 8 and the outer pipe 5 and the second free spaces 8b between the support 8 and the inner pipe 6, the refrigerant can flow through the supports 8 in the longitudinal direction of the manifold 2 in the space between the inner pipe 6 and the outer pipe 5.

[0028] If the inner tube is 6 in Fig. 4. Compared to a clock face, the pores 6a are arranged in two rows of positions that essentially correspond to four o'clock and eight o'clock, but these positions are examples. The positions of the pores 6a can be chosen as suitable for the design. The number of in Fig. The pores 6 shown in the 4 diagrams can also be selected to be suitable for the design. In other words, they can be used in Fig. 4. The pores 6a can be arranged in three rows or in one row. The positions and number of the second spaces 8b can be appropriately chosen based on the positions and number of the pores 6a. Method for manufacturing a manifold and method for manufacturing a heat exchanger

[0029] The Fig. Diagrams 5A to 5F illustrate the processes involved in manufacturing the manifold 2 over time. A method for manufacturing the manifold 2 is described below with reference to the... Fig. 5A to 5F described.

[0030] The components of the manifold 2 are manufactured separately. In other words, both the body 5a and the base plate 5b, contained within the outer tube 5, are manufactured by bending a piece of material cut from a metal sheet. The inner tube 6 is manufactured by cutting a metal tube and forming the pores 6a within it. Each of the fasteners 7, the support 8, and the covers 9 is cut from a metal sheet. The conveying line 10 is manufactured by cutting a metal tube and bending it. A soldering material is applied to sections of each component as appropriate. Fastener fastening process

[0031] Once the components are prepared as described above, the inner tube 6 is inserted into one of the fastening elements 7, as shown in Fig. 5A is shown. The inner tube 6 is positioned with respect to the fastening element 7 such that the pores 6a face in predetermined directions, or in other words, into the Fig. The directions shown in 3A are indicated. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5B, a tube expander 11 is then inserted into the inner tube 6 to expand a section of the inner tube 6 that intersects with the fastening element 7. This secures the inner tube 6 to the fastening element 7, as shown in Figure 5B. Fig. 5B is shown. The inner tube 6 is attached to the fastening element 7 such that the pores 6a are oriented in predetermined directions, or in other words, in the directions shown. Fig. The directions shown in 3A are indicated. Inner tube fastening process

[0032] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5C, the supports 8 and the other fastening element 7 are attached to the inner tube 6 after the fastening element fastening process. The remaining secondary clearances 8b in the supports 8 allow the supports 8 to be positioned without having to avoid the pores 6a in the inner tube 6. This improves work efficiency. Overall assembly process

[0033] The inner tube 6 after the inner tube fastening process, or more precisely, the inner tube 6 to which the fastening elements 7 and the supports 8 are attached, is attached to the body 5a, as shown in Fig. The inner tube 6, attached to one of the fasteners 7 in the fastening process, does not rotate around its central axis relative to the fastener 7 either before or after the fastening process. The inner tube 6 is thus attached to the body 5a while it is in the fastening process. Fig. The orientation shown in 5B is maintained. As in Fig. In 5D representation, the body 5a has many comb teeth 5c. The effects of the teeth 5c will be described later.

[0034] As in Fig. As shown in 5E, the covers 9 are then attached to the two ends of the body 5a. Finally, as shown in Fig. 5F shows the base plate 5b and the conveying line 10 attached to the body 5a. The assembly of the collecting line 2 is thus complete. Method for attaching the base plate

[0035] The Fig. Diagrams 6A to 6C illustrate, in chronological order, the process of attaching the base plate 5b to the body 5a inside the outer tube 5 in the overall assembly process described above. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 6A, the teeth 5c extend straight before the base plate 5b is attached to the body 5a. This allows the base plate 5b to be inserted into the body 5a, as shown in Figure 6A. Fig. 6B is shown. After the base plate 5b is inserted into the body 5a, the teeth 5c are bent as shown. Fig. 6C is shown. When the teeth 5c are bent, the base plate 5b is held between each fastening element 7 and the teeth 5c. The base plate 5b is thus attached to the body 5a. Final assembly process of the heat exchanger

[0036] After assembly, the two manifolds 2 are arranged parallel to each other at a distance. The multiple heat transfer tubes 3 are positioned between the two manifolds 2 and attached to them. The multiple heat transfer fins 4 are attached to the heat transfer tubes 3 so that they intersect with them. The heat exchanger 1 is thus configured as shown in Fig. 1 shown assembled. Soldering process

[0037] After he was in the final assembly process as in Fig. Once the heat exchanger 1 is assembled (as shown in Figure 1), it is placed in an oven (not shown) and heated. As the heat exchanger 1 heats up, a brazing material previously applied to its components melts and flows into the small gaps between them. The heat exchanger 1 is then cooled to allow the brazing material to harden. The brazing process is thus complete.

[0038] The manifolds 2 and the heat exchanger 1 including the manifolds 2 are manufactured using the above processes. Details of the shape of the fastener

[0039] Details of the shape of the fasteners 7, which are in each in Fig. The two illustrated manifolds 2 are included, and a modification of the fastening elements 7 is described. Fig. 7A is a top view of a respective fastening element 7, which is located in the manifold 2 of Fig. 2 contains a top view showing the details of the shape. Fig. 7B is a top view of a fastener 7 according to a modification, which top view shows the details of the shape.

[0040] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7A, each fastening element 7 has an insertion opening 7a through which the inner tube 6 extends. The insertion opening 7a has a planar shape similar to the cross-section of the inner tube 6. In other words, if the inner tube 6 has a circular cross-section, the insertion opening 7a has a circular planar shape. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 7A, the flat shape of the insertion opening 7a is slightly larger than the cross-section of the inner tube 6 before the tube expansion. The inner tube 6 is thus easily inserted into the insertion opening 7a before the tube expansion. The inner tube 6 comes into close contact with the fastening element 7 when the latter is expanded.

[0041] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7B, the insertion opening 7a can have a planar shape that is dissimilar to the cross-section of the inner tube 6. If the insertion opening 7a has a planar shape that is dissimilar to the cross-section of the inner tube 6, some sections of the fastener 7 will fit more tightly into the inner tube 6 when the inner tube 6 expands, and the inner tube 6 will be more firmly attached to the fastener 7. This will more reliably restrict the rotation of the inner tube 6 about its longitudinal axis relative to the fastener 7. First and second modifications

[0042] Fig. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a collector pipe 2 according to a first modification. Fig. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a collector pipe 2 according to a second modification.

[0043] Although each of the above-described manifold 2 includes the fasteners 7 and the conveying line 10, the manifold 2 is not limited to a manifold that includes either the fasteners 7 or the conveying line 10. For example, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, one end of the inner tube 6 protrudes through the cover 9 to the outside of the manifold 2 to the left in the figure. For example, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, one end of the inner pipe 6 is bent into an L-shape to protrude from the manifold 2 through the outer pipe 5. In these examples, the refrigerant can flow directly into and out of the manifold 2 through the inner pipe 6. This eliminates the need for the delivery line 10. Consequently, the fastening elements 7 are also eliminated. Thus, as shown in the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 shows the multiple supports 8 arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube 5 between the covers 9, which are attached to the two ends of the outer tube 5.

[0044] Although the inner tube 6 described above is expanded to be attached to the fastening elements 7, the end section of the inner tube 6, which is inserted into the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 is arranged on the right, it will be expanded to fit the example in the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 to be attached to the far right support 8. Third modification

[0045] Fig. 10A is a side view of an outer tube 5, which is in a (in Fig. 10A (not shown) Collector line 2 according to a third modification, which side view represents the outer shape. Fig. 10B is a cross-sectional view of the outer tube 5 along a line XX in Fig. Level 10A specified. Fig. 10C is a top view of a support 8 contained in the collector 2 according to the third modification, which top view represents the external shape. Fig. 10D is a diagram of carrier 8 of Fig. 10C, which is attached to the outer tube 5 of Fig. 10B is attached.

[0046] As in the Fig. 10A and Fig. As shown in Figure 10B, a body 5a in the outer tube 5 has mounting grooves 5d in both side surfaces. As in Fig. As shown in 10C, each support has 8 projections 8c. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10A, the mounting slots 5d extend upwards from the lower ends of the body 5a. This allows the projections 8c to be inserted from the underside of the body 5a to fit into the mounting slots 5d. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 10B, the mounting grooves 5d extend through the body 5a. Therefore, when the projections 8c are fitted into the mounting grooves 5d, the end of each projection 8c protrudes towards the outside of the body 5a. When the projections 8c are fitted into the mounting grooves 5d, the support 8 is in the Fig. attached to body 5a in the manner shown in 10D.

[0047] As described above, in the third modification of the manifold 2, the body 5a in the outer tube 5 has mounting grooves 5d, and the supports 8 have projections 8c that are designed to fit into the mounting grooves 5d. The supports 8 can thus be easily positioned relative to the body. This structure facilitates the assembly of the manifold 2. This structure also improves the assembly accuracy of the manifold 2. When the manifold 2 is assembled, if the ends of the projections 8c face outwards, it can be easily determined from outside the outer tube 5 that the supports 8 are in place.

[0048] Although the supports 8 in the preceding example have the projections 8c, components other than the supports 8 may have projections that are intended to fit into the mounting grooves 5d. Each fastener 7 or cover 9 may instead have projections that are intended to fit into the mounting grooves 5d. Fourth modification

[0049] Fig. 11A is a side view of an outer tube 5, which is in a (in Fig. 11A (not shown) Collector line 2 according to a fourth modification, which side view represents the outer shape. Fig. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the outer tube 5 along a line through XI-XI in Fig. Level 11A specified. Fig. 11C is a top view of a support 8 contained in the collector 2 according to the fourth modification, which top view represents the external shape. Fig. 11D is a diagram of carrier 8 of Fig. 11C, which is attached to the outer tube 5 of Fig. 11B is attached.

[0050] The manifold 2 according to the fourth modification contains the same basic components as the manifold 2 according to the third modification and has the same effects. However, the manifold 2 according to the fourth modification differs from the manifold 2 according to the third modification in that the base plate 5b has second mounting grooves 5e, as shown in the Fig. 11A and Fig. 11B shown, and by the fact that the projections 8c, which are included in each support 8, are fitted into the second mounting grooves 5e in addition to the mounting grooves 5d.

[0051] In the manifold 2 according to the fourth modification, after each support 8 has been positioned relative to the body 5a by fitting the projections 8c into the mounting slots 5d, the base plate 5b can be positioned relative to the body 5a by fitting the projections 8c into the second mounting slots 5e. Thus, the base plate 5b can be easily and accurately positioned relative to the body 5a. This structure further facilitates the assembly of the manifold 2. This structure also further improves the assembly accuracy of the manifold 2. Although each support 8 described in the preceding example has the projections 8c to be fitted into the mounting slots 5d and the second mounting slots 5e, components other than the supports 8 can also have projections to be fitted into the mounting slots 5d and the second mounting slots 5e.Each fastening element 7 or cover 9 may have protrusions that are to be fitted into the mounting grooves 5d and the second mounting grooves 5e.

[0052] In the third and fourth modifications, both the body 5a and the base plate 5b are produced by bending a piece of material cut from a metal plate. If the material has the mounting grooves 5d and the second mounting grooves 5e, which were formed before bending, and is bent with insufficient accuracy or deformed after bending, the positions of the mounting grooves 5d or the second mounting grooves 5e, which are located on the right in the outer tube 5 in Fig. 10B or Fig. 11B, with the positions of the mounting slots 5d or the second mounting slots 5e, which are located on the left in the outer tube 5 in Fig. 10B or Fig. 11B, be misaligned. For example, if each projection 8c is in the right mounting groove 5d in the body 5a in Fig. When 10B is fitted, a gap may remain between the projection 8c and the left mounting groove 5d in the body 5a. For example, if the projection 8c fits into the left second mounting groove 5e in the base plate 5b in Fig. When 11B is fitted, a gap may remain between the projection 8c and the right second mounting groove 5e in the base plate 5b. This allows the mounting grooves 5d and the second mounting grooves 5e to be formed after the material has been bent. Forming the mounting grooves 5d and the second mounting grooves 5e after bending the material can reduce misalignment between the right and left mounting grooves 5d or between the right and left second mounting grooves 5e.

[0053] Fig. 12A is a cross-sectional view of body 5a and each beam 8 along a line XI d -XI d in Fig. 11D specified plane, which shows cross-sectional view of the fillets at the mounting groove 5d and the projection 8c. Fig. 12B is a cross-sectional view of body 5a and each beam 8 in another example similar to that in Fig. 12A, which shows the cross-sectional view of the shapes of the coves at the mounting groove 5d and the projection 8c.

[0054] As described above, in the third and fourth modifications, the ends of the projections 8c in each support 8 project towards the outside of the outer tube 5 when the support 8 is attached to the outer tube 5. Thus, when the support 8 is soldered to the outer tube 5, fillets 12 are formed inside and outside the outer tube 5, as shown in Fig. 12A is shown. This improves the strength of the brazed sections. This also easily improves the airtightness and watertightness of the brazed sections.

[0055] Each projection 8c can have a shape and dimensions such that the end of the projection 8c does not reach the outer surface of the outer tube 5. In other words, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 12B, each support 8 attached to the outer tube 5 can have the end of each projection 8c within the mounting groove 5d. In this case, the fillets 12 are formed as shown in Figure 12B. Fig. 12B is shown, formed within the outer tube 5 and on inner sections of the mounting groove 5d. This improves the strength of the brazed sections. This also easily improves the airtightness and watertightness of the brazed sections. Shape of the outer tube in modifications

[0056] Fig. 13A is a cross-sectional view of an outer tube 5 in a modification similar to that in Fig. 3A is selected. Fig. 13B is a cross-sectional view of an outer tube 5 in another modification, similar to that in Fig. 3A is selected.

[0057] Although the above refers to the Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B, where the body 5a described in the outer tube 5 has a U-shaped cross-section, the body 5a can have any groove-shaped cross-section that differs from the one described in the Fig. 3A and Fig. The cross-section shown in 3B is different. For example, body 5a may have a cross-section as shown in Fig. 13A or Fig. 13B is shown. In other words, the cross-section of body 5a, as shown in Fig. As shown in 13A, it has a straight outer shape with two corners 5f, each of which has a right interior angle. As in Fig. As shown in 13B, the cross-section of the body 5a can have four corners 5f, each of which has an obtuse interior angle.

[0058] In embodiments of the present disclosure, a groove-shaped cross-section refers to a cross-section having a shape in which the ends are closed in three directions and one end is open. The open end of the groove-shaped cross-section is closed when another component is attached to the open end. In other words, a groove-shaped cross-section in embodiments of the present disclosure refers to a cross-section with an open end that is closed when another component is attached to the open end. The groove-shaped cross-section in embodiments of the present disclosure can have any shape at the closed ends in three directions. The cross-section of the body in embodiments of the present disclosure is modifiable as appropriate according to each groove-shaped cross-section described above.A groove-shaped cross-section also includes a cross-section that is typically described as an angled U-shape or a C-shape.

[0059] The cross-section of the base plate in embodiments of the present disclosure is not based on the cross-section of the one described in the Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B, Fig. 13A or Fig. The cross-section of the base plate in embodiments of the present disclosure is limited to the base plate 5b shown in Figure 13B or other figures. The cross-section of the base plate in embodiments of the present disclosure is modifiable as appropriate according to any cross-section with which the base plate closes the groove-shaped cross-section of the body when it is attached to the open end of the body.

[0060] As described above, the inner tube 6 in each manifold 2 is held by the outer tube 5 by the multiple supports 8 arranged longitudinally along the inner tube 6, or by the multiple fasteners 7 and supports 8. In other words, the inner tube 6 is held by the outer tube 5 at multiple points. Thus, the inner tube 6 is held more stably by the outer tube 5 than if the inner tube projected from the outer tube, as in the example described in patent literature 1. The inner tube 6 is therefore less likely to bend or shift relative to the outer tube 5 during the manifold 2 manufacturing process. This structure facilitates the manifold 2 manufacturing process. It also improves the shape accuracy of the manifold 2 and stabilizes its performance.

[0061] In the manifold 2, the first free space 8a is defined between the outer pipe 5 and each support 8, and the second free spaces 8b are defined between the inner pipe 6 and the support 8. Thus, the refrigerant can move through the supports 8 in the longitudinal direction of the manifold 2 in the space between the outer pipe 5 and the inner pipe 6. The refrigerant can therefore flow evenly through many heat transfer tubes 3. This improves the performance of the heat exchanger 1.

[0062] However, the technical scope of this disclosure is not limited to the foregoing embodiments. This disclosure may be freely applied, modified, or varied within the scope of the technical ideas described in the claims.

[0063] Specific mechanical structures of the heat exchanger 1 and the manifold 2 according to the foregoing embodiments are examples and do not limit the technical scope of this disclosure. In particular, the number of supports contained in the manifold according to embodiments of this disclosure is not limited to the example described above.

[0064] For example, the above-described manifolds 2 are arranged parallel to each other. However, the manifolds 2 may not be arranged parallel to each other. The manifolds 2 can also have any external shape.

[0065] In the foregoing embodiments, the inner tube 6 has a perfectly circular cross-section. However, a manifold according to embodiments of the present disclosure is not limited to an inner tube with a perfectly circular cross-section. The inner tube contained in the manifold according to embodiments of the present disclosure can be a square tube or a tube with a different cross-section.

[0066] In the preceding embodiments, the two ends of the inner tube 6 are attached to the outer tube 5 by the two fastening elements 7, and the supports 8, which are attached to the outer tube 5 and support the inner tube 6, are arranged between the two fastening elements 7. However, the inner tube 6 can be attached to the outer tube 5 by three or more fastening elements 7. In this case, the fastening element 7 located in the middle can have clearances facing the pores 6a, similar to the second clearances 8b in the supports 8. The inner tube 6 can be attached at sections other than its ends.

[0067] If the supports 8 have a thickness sufficiently smaller than the diameter of the pores 6a, the refrigerant can flow through the pores 6a even if the supports 8 overlap the pores 6a. This structure eliminates the need for the second voids 8b. The pores 6a can have a cross-section other than a circle. The pores 6a can have an elongated or polygonal cross-section. The pores 6a can have any diameter. Although the pores 6a are arranged linearly at regular intervals in the preceding example, they can also be arranged at irregular intervals. The pores 6a can be arranged at pseudorandom positions.

[0068] In the foregoing embodiments, the heat exchanger 1 comprises the heat transfer fins 4. However, the heat exchanger according to embodiments of this disclosure is not limited to components corresponding to the heat transfer fins 4. The heat exchanger according to embodiments of this disclosure may or may not include components corresponding to the heat transfer fins 4. The heat exchanger according to embodiments of this disclosure includes at least components corresponding to the manifolds 2 and the heat transfer tubes 3.

[0069] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the manifolds and the heat exchanger can be made of any materials. The materials can be suitably selected based on the intended use, the operating environment, or the desired performance. The components of the manifolds and the heat exchanger according to embodiments of the present disclosure can be machined by any method or means.

[0070] Various aspects of the present revelation are described below in the appendices. Annex 1

[0071] A collection line, showing: an outer pipe to which several heat transfer pipes are connected; an inner tube that is inserted into the outer tube and has several pores; and several supports spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction of the outer tube and holding the inner tube, wherein a space between the inner pipe and the outer pipe has a free space so that a refrigerant in the manifold can flow through the multiple supports in a longitudinal direction of the manifold. Appendix 2

[0072] The collecting pipe according to Annex 1, comprising the outer pipe: a body to which the several heat transfer pipes are connected, wherein the body has a groove-shaped cross-section in a cross-section of the manifold along a plane orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the manifold, a base plate that is attached to an open end of the body in the groove-shaped cross-section, and Covers that are attached to two ends of the outer tube in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube. Appendix 3

[0073] A collection line, showing: an outer pipe to which several heat transfer pipes are connected; an inner tube that is inserted into the outer tube and has several pores; two fastening elements spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction of the outer tube and fastening the inner tube to the outer tube, wherein the two fastening elements hermetically enclose a space between the inner tube and the outer tube in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube; and a support that is positioned between the two fastening elements in the space between the inner tube and the outer tube, and supports the inner tube, wherein the space between the inner pipe and the outer pipe has a free space so that a refrigerant in the manifold can flow through the support in a longitudinal direction of the manifold. Appendix 4

[0074] The collection line according to Annex 3, wherein Each of the fastening elements has an insertion opening through which the inner tube extends in the longitudinal direction of the manifold, and The inlet opening has a flat shape that differs from the cross-section of the inner tube when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the manifold. Appendix 5

[0075] The collecting pipe according to Annex 3 or 4, comprising the outer pipe: a body to which the several heat transfer pipes are connected, wherein the body has a groove-shaped cross-section in a cross-section of the manifold along a plane orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the manifold, a base plate that is attached to an open end of the body in the groove-shaped cross-section, and Covers that are attached to two ends of the outer tube in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube. Appendix 6

[0076] The collection line according to one of Annexes 1 to 5, wherein the free space between each of the multiple supports and the outer tube is defined, and a complete section of each of the multiple heat transfer tubes projecting into the outer tube, in which free space is visible when the manifold is viewed in plan view along the longitudinal direction of the manifold. Appendix 7

[0077] The collection line according to one of Annexes 1 to 5, wherein the free space between each of the multiple supports and the outer tube is defined, and Each of the multiple pores in the inner pipe faces the free space when the collector pipe is viewed in the longitudinal direction of the collector pipe from above. Appendix 8

[0078] A heat exchanger comprising: two collector lines, each of which is the collector line according to one of Annexes 1 to 7; several heat transfer pipes arranged between the two manifolds to allow a refrigerant to flow between the two manifolds; and several heat transfer fins that intersect with the multiple heat transfer tubes and are in thermal contact with the multiple heat transfer tubes. Appendix 9

[0079] Method for manufacturing the collection line according to Annex 5, wherein the method comprises: Attaching a first fastening element of the two fastening elements to the inner tube by inserting the inner tube into the first fastening element and expanding the inner tube; Attaching a second fastening element to the inner tube to which the first fastening element is attached; and Attaching the inner tube, to which the second fastening element and the support are attached, to the body, and attaching the base plate and the covers to the body. Appendix 10

[0080] A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger, comprising the method: Attaching multiple heat transfer pipes to two manifolds, each manifold being constructed using the method described in Annex 9 to arrange multiple heat transfer pipes between the two manifolds; and Heating the multiple heat transfer pipes and the two manifolds with the multiple heat transfer pipes between the two manifolds, and soldering the two manifolds and the multiple heat transfer pipes together. Annex 11

[0081] The collection line according to Annex 2 or 5, wherein the body of the outer tube has a mounting groove, and the support and / or each of the covers has a projection that fits into the mounting groove, or each of the multiple supports and / or each of the covers has a projection that fits into the mounting groove. Appendix 12

[0082] The collection line according to Annex 11, wherein the base plate of the outer tube has a second mounting groove, and the protrusion is fitted into the second mounting groove. Appendix 13

[0083] The collector pipe according to Annex 11 or 12, wherein the projection has an end that extends through the mounting groove to an outside of the outer pipe. Appendix 14

[0084] The manifold according to Annex 11 or 12, wherein the projection has an end within the mounting groove.

[0085] The foregoing describes some exemplary embodiments for illustrative purposes. Although the preceding discussion has presented specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes in form and detail can be made without departing from the broader concept and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a limiting sense. This detailed description is therefore not to be understood in a limiting sense, and the scope of the invention is defined only by the appended claims, together with the full range of equivalents to which such claims entitle.

[0086] This application claims priority over Japanese patent application No. 2022-207144, filed on December 23, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Commercial applicability

[0087] The technology according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is useful for a manifold, a heat exchanger, a method for manufacturing the manifold and a method for manufacturing the heat exchanger. Reference symbol list 1 heat exchanger 2 Collective line 3 Heat transfer pipe 4 heat transfer fins 5 Outer pipe 5a Body 5b Base plate 5c tooth 5d mounting groove 5e second mounting groove 5f corner 6 inner tube 6a Pore 7 Fastening element 7a Inlet opening 8 carriers 8a first free space 8b second free space 8c lead 9 Cover 10 Conveyor line 11 pipe expanders 12 Cove QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] JP 2005 - 180 910

[0006] JP 2022-207144

[0086]

Claims

[1] Collecting pipe, having: an outer pipe to which several heat transfer pipes are connected; an inner tube that is inserted into the outer tube and has several pores; and Several supports spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction of the outer pipe and holding the inner pipe, wherein a space between the inner pipe and the outer pipe has a free space so that a refrigerant in the manifold can flow through the several supports in a longitudinal direction of the manifold. [2] Collecting pipe according to claim 1, wherein the outer pipe comprises: a body to which the several heat transfer pipes are connected, wherein the body has a groove-shaped cross-section in a cross-section of the manifold along a plane orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the manifold, a base plate that is attached to an open end of the body in the groove-shaped cross-section, and Covers that are attached to two ends of the outer tube in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube. [3] Collecting pipe, having: an outer pipe to which several heat transfer pipes are connected; an inner tube that is inserted into the outer tube and has several pores; two fastening elements spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction of the outer tube and fastening the inner tube to the outer tube, wherein the two fastening elements hermetically seal a space between the inner tube and the outer tube in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube; and a support which is arranged in the space between the inner tube and the outer tube between the two fastening elements and supports the inner tube, wherein the space between the inner tube and the outer tube has a free space so that a refrigerant in the manifold can flow through the support in a longitudinal direction of the manifold. [4] Collecting line according to claim 3, wherein Each of the fastening elements has an insertion opening through which the inner tube extends in the longitudinal direction of the manifold, and The inlet opening has a flat shape that differs from the cross-section of the inner tube when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the manifold. [5] Collecting pipe according to claim 3, wherein the outer pipe comprises: a body to which the several heat transfer pipes are connected, wherein the body has a groove-shaped cross-section in a cross-section of the manifold along a plane orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the manifold, a base plate that is attached to an open end of the body in the groove-shaped cross-section, and Covers that are attached to two ends of the outer tube in the longitudinal direction of the outer tube. [6] Collecting line according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the free space between each of the multiple supports and the outer tube is defined, and a complete section of each of the multiple heat transfer tubes projecting into the outer tube, in which free space is visible when the manifold is viewed in plan view along the longitudinal direction of the manifold. [7] Collecting line according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the free space between each of the multiple supports and the outer tube is defined, and Each of the multiple pores in the inner pipe faces the free space when the collector pipe is viewed in the longitudinal direction of the collector pipe from above. [8] Heat exchangers comprising: two manifolds, each of which is the manifold according to one of claims 1 to 5; several heat transfer pipes arranged between the two manifolds to allow a refrigerant to flow between the two manifolds; and several heat transfer fins that intersect with the multiple heat transfer tubes and are in thermal contact with the multiple heat transfer tubes. [9] Method for manufacturing the manifold according to claim 5, wherein the method comprises: Attaching a first fastening element of the two fastening elements to the inner tube by inserting the inner tube into the first fastening element and expanding the inner tube; Attaching a second fastening element to the inner tube to which the first fastening element is attached; and Attaching the inner tube, to which the second fastening element and the support are attached, to the body, and attaching the base plate and the covers to the body. [10] Method for manufacturing a heat exchanger, wherein the method comprises: Attaching multiple heat transfer tubes to two manifolds, each manifold being the manifold produced by the method of claim 9 to arrange multiple heat transfer tubes between the two manifolds; and Heating the multiple heat transfer pipes and the two manifolds with the multiple heat transfer pipes between the two manifolds, and soldering the two manifolds and the multiple heat transfer pipes together. [11] Collecting line according to claim 2 or 5, wherein the body of the outer tube has a mounting groove, and one or both of the support and each of the covers have a projection that fits into the mounting groove, or one or both of each of the multiple supports or each of the covers have a projection that fits into the mounting groove. [12] Collecting line according to claim 11, wherein the base plate of the outer tube has a second mounting groove, and the protrusion is fitted into the second mounting groove. [13] Collecting pipe according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the projection has an end that extends through the mounting groove to an outside of the outer pipe. [14] Collecting line according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the projection has an end within the mounting groove.

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