Heat exchangers and methods for manufacturing a heat exchanger

Abstract

A heat exchanger (1A) comprises a manifold (20A), a support, and an elastic surface structure (70A). The manifold (20A) is coupled to the heat transfer lines (40) to allow the flow of refrigerant between the manifold (20A) and the heat transfer lines (40). The manifold (20A) is mounted on the support, which in turn supports the manifold (20A). The elastic surface structure (70A) is located between the manifold (20A) and the support, deforms elastically under the weight of the manifold (20A), and is elastically deformable in response to an impact applied to the manifold (20A) or the support.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heat exchanger and a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger. State of the art

[0002] Some heat exchangers include a manifold for distributing or collecting refrigerant to or from heat transfer lines, which is mounted on a support structure, such as a drip tray.

[0003] For example, patent literature 1 discloses a heat exchanger comprising a circular manifold and several collection guide plates attached to the manifold, the plate surfaces having perpendicular to the manifold axis and horizontal lower ends, wherein the several collection guide plates are mounted on a collection tray. List of patent literature

[0004] Patent literature 1: Unexamined Japanese patent application, publication number 2010-25462 Brief description of the invention: Technical problem

[0005] Due to the effects of gravity, thermal history, and other factors during manufacturing, manifolds can warp or distort beyond their intended shape. If warping or distortion occurs in the manifold of the heat exchanger disclosed in patent literature 1, the manifold and the heat exchanger comprising the manifold become unstable, leading to loosening of the heat exchanger in the drip tray.

[0006] The present disclosure is made to solve the aforementioned problems, and one objective of the present disclosure is to provide a heat exchanger which is less likely to cause loosening of the manifold. Solution to the problem

[0007] To solve the aforementioned problem, a heat exchanger according to the present disclosure comprises a header, a support element, and an elastic sheet. The header is coupled to the heat transfer lines to allow the flow of refrigerant between the header and the heat transfer lines. The header is mounted on the support element, which in turn supports the header. The elastic sheet is arranged between the header and the support element, deforms elastically under the weight of the header, and is elastically deformable in response to an impact exerted on the header or the support element. Advantageous effects of the invention

[0008] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, an elastic surface structure is arranged between the line distributor and the support element, is elastically deformed by the weight of the line distributor, and is elastically deformable in response to a shock exerted on the line distributor or the support element. As a result, it is less likely that the line distributor will loosen relative to the support element. Brief description of the drawings Fig. 1A is a front view of a heat exchanger according to embodiment 1 of the present disclosure; Fig. 1B is a right side view of the heat exchanger; Fig. 1C is a top view of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 2A is a front view of a first modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 1 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 2B is a right side view of the first modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. 2C is a top view of the first modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 3A is a front view of a second modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 1 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 3B is a right side view of the second modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. 3C is a top view of the second modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 4A is a front view of a third modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 1 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 4B is a right side view of the third modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. 4C is a top view of the third modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 5A is a front view of a fourth modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 1 of the present disclosure; Fig. 5B is a right side view of the fourth modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. 5C is a top view of the fourth modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 6A is a front view of a fifth modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 1 of the present disclosure; Fig. 6B is a right side view of the fifth modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 6C is a top view of the fifth modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. 7A is a front view of a heat exchanger according to embodiment 2 of the present disclosure; Fig. 7B is a right side view of the heat exchanger; Fig. 7C is a top view of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 8A is a front view of a first modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 2 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 8B is a right-side view of the first modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 8C is a top view of the first modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 9A is a front view of a second modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 2 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 9B is a right side view of the second modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 9C is a top view of the second modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 10A is a front view of a third modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 2 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 10B is a right side view of the third modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 10C is a top view of the third modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. 11A is a front view of a heat exchanger according to embodiment 3 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 11B is a right-side view of the heat exchanger; Fig. 11C is a top view of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 12A is a front view of a first modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 3 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 12B is a right side view of the first modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 12C is a top view of the first modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 13A is a front view of a second modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 3 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 13B is a right side view of the second modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 13C is a top view of the second modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 14A is a front view of a heat exchanger according to embodiment 4 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 14B is a right-side view of the heat exchanger; Fig. 14C is a top view of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 15A is a front view of a first modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 4 of the present disclosure; Fig. 15B is a right side view of the first modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 15C is a top view of the first modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 16A is a front view of a second modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 4 of the present disclosure; Fig. 16B is a right side view of the second modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 16C is a top view of the second modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 17A is a front view of a third modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 4 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 17B is a right side view of the third modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 17C is a top view of the third modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 18A is a front view of a fourth modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 4 of the present disclosure; Fig. 18B is a right side view of the fourth modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 18C is a top view of the fourth modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. 19A is a front view of a fifth modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 4 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 19B is a right side view of the fifth modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 19C is a top view of the fifth modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 20A is a front view of a sixth modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 4 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 20B is a right side view of the sixth modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 20C is a top view of the sixth modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 21A is a front view of a seventh modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 4 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 21B is a right side view of the seventh modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 21C is a top view of the seventh modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. 22A is a front view of a heat exchanger according to embodiment 5 of the present disclosure; Fig. 22B is a right side view of the heat exchanger; Fig. 22C is a top view of the heat exchanger; Fig. 23A is a front view of a heat exchanger according to embodiment 6 of the present disclosure; Fig. 23B is a right side view of the heat exchanger; Fig. 23C is a top view of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 24A is a front view of a first modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 6 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 24B is a right side view of the first modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 24C is a top view of the first modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 25A is a front view of a second modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 6 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 25B is a right side view of the second modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 25C is a top view of the second modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 26A is a front view of a third modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 6 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 26B is a right side view of the third modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 26C is a top view of the third modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 27A is a front view of a fourth modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 6 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 27B is a right side view of the fourth modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 27C is a top view of the fourth modified example of the heat exchanger; Fig. Figure 28A is a front view of a fifth modified example of the heat exchanger according to embodiment 6 of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 28B is a right-side view of the fifth modified example of the heat exchanger; and Fig. Figure 28C is a top view of the fifth modified example of the heat exchanger. Description of the embodiments

[0009] A heat exchanger and a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, components that are identical or equivalent are designated with the same reference numeral. The drawings are provided with an orthogonal XYZ coordinate system. In this coordinate system, the Z-axis corresponds to the top-bottom direction, that is, the vertical direction in which the axes of several heat transfer lines contained in the heat exchanger extend. The X-axis corresponds to the horizontal direction in which the heat transfer lines are arranged. The Y-axis is orthogonal to the Z-axis and the X-axis. The following description refers to this coordinate system as necessary. Design 1

[0010] In a heat exchanger according to embodiment 1, an elastic surface structure is arranged under the manifold to suppress deformation of the heat exchanger itself due to an impact and to prevent loosening of the manifold. The configuration of the heat exchanger is determined with reference to the Fig. Described in sections 1A to 1C.

[0011] Fig. Figure 1A is a front view of a heat exchanger 1A according to embodiment 1. Fig. 1B is a right side view of heat exchanger 1A. Fig. Figure 1C is a top view of heat exchanger 1A. For easier understanding, the Fig. 1A to 1C show the schematic form of the entire set of ribs 50, without showing the shape of each (individual) rib 50. Although an end cap is also arranged at the right ends of the line distributors 10 and 20A, Fig. 1B, for easier understanding, no end cap. The same applies to those described later. Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 14, Fig. 15, Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, Fig. 19, Fig. 20, Fig. 21 to Fig. 22.

[0012] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1A, the heat exchanger 1A comprises two line distributors 10 and 20A facing each other in the top-bottom direction, several heat transfer lines 40 that allow a flow of refrigerant which is distributed or collected through the line distributors 10 and 20A, and several fins 50 that transfer heat from the heat transfer lines 40 to the ambient air.

[0013] As in the Fig. 1A and Fig. As shown in Figure 1B, each of the manifolds 10 and 20A has a cylindrical shape and a cylinder axis that corresponds to the horizontal direction. End caps (not shown) are inserted into the left and right ends of the manifolds 10 and 20A. Refrigerant lines (not shown) are connected to these end caps to supply refrigerant from an external device to the manifolds 10 and 20A or to discharge refrigerant from the manifolds 10 and 20A.

[0014] Furthermore, each of the line distributors 10 and 20A, although not shown, has an internal flow path for refrigerant to flow through it. As shown in the Fig. 1A and Fig. As shown in Figure 1B, the line distributors 10 and 20A are oriented towards each other in a position where they are spaced apart in the top-bottom direction. The line distributors 10 and 20A are coupled to the multiple heat transfer lines 40 to allow the refrigerant to flow between them.

[0015] Each of the heat transfer lines 40 is made of a metal with high thermal conductivity, such as pure aluminum or an aluminum alloy, thus exhibiting high thermal conductivity. Each of the heat transfer lines 40 has a flattened shape for increased thermal conductivity, as shown in Fig. 1C shown. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1A, each of the heat transfer lines 40 is arranged such that its axis aligns with the top-bottom direction. The upper and lower ends of the heat transfer lines 40 pass through entry holes (not shown) of the top-mounted manifold 10 and the bottom-mounted manifold 20A, respectively. Due to this configuration, the internal flow paths of the heat transfer lines 40 are connected to the internal flow paths of the manifolds 10 and 20A. This allows the refrigerant to flow from the manifolds 10 and 20A to the heat transfer lines 40, thereby transferring heat from the refrigerant to the heat transfer lines 40.

[0016] For high heat transfer efficiency, a large number of heat transfer lines 40 are arranged in the heat exchanger 1A. The heat transfer lines 40 are arranged with a specific pitch along the horizontal direction. To transfer the heat transferred to the heat transfer lines 40 to the air with high efficiency, fins 50 are arranged between the heat transfer lines 40, although their detailed shape and arrangement are not shown.

[0017] Similar to the heat transfer lines 40, the fins 50 are made of a metal with high thermal conductivity, thus exhibiting high heat transfer capacity. Although not shown, the fins 50 have a plate-like shape bent into a corrugated form to further enhance heat transfer. The fins 50 are positioned between the heat transfer lines 40 such that the direction in which the corrugations run continuously corresponds to the top-bottom direction. Due to this configuration, heat is transferred from the heat transfer lines 40 to the fins 50, and the fins 50 exchange heat with the surrounding air.

[0018] The heat exchanger 1A with the aforementioned configuration is, for example, installed and used in a housing that is part of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner. However, installing the heat exchanger 1A, limited only to the aforementioned configuration, can cause the heat exchanger 1A to become unstable due to warping or distortion of the manifold 20A beyond its intended shape, caused by the effects of gravity, thermal history, and other factors during manufacturing. As described in the Fig. Figures 1A to 1C show that the heat exchanger 1A for installing the manifold 20A in the housing in a stable state comprises a carrier plate 60 for fastening / mounting the manifold 20A and several elastic sheets 70A arranged between the carrier plate 60 and the manifold 20A.

[0019] The support plate 60 is made of metal or resin and has the shape of a rectangular plate. The support plate 60 is arranged such that one surface of it faces a base plate section of the housing of the outdoor unit (not shown). The support plate 60 has through holes (not shown), and fastening elements such as bolts or screws, which pass through the through holes, secure the support plate 60 to the base plate section of the housing. The several elastic surface structures 70A are arranged above the support plate 60.

[0020] Each of the elastic surface structures 70A consists of rubber or synthetic resin. As a result, the elastic surface structures 70A are elastically deformable. Although not shown, the elastic surface structures 70A are attached to the carrier plate 60 with adhesive, double-sided tape, or fasteners to prevent displacement. As shown in the Fig. 1A and Fig. As shown in Figure 1B, the cable distributor 20A is attached / mounted to the elastic surface structures 70A. Consequently, it is less likely that the elastic surface structures 70A will displace in response to an impact from the support plate 60. Furthermore, the elastic surface structures 70A deform elastically in response to such an impact and thereby absorb it. As a result, it is less likely that the impact will be transmitted to the cable distributor 20A. Thus, the elastic surface structures 70A act as a damping element.

[0021] The elastic surface structures 70A have a rectangular shape with a thickness sufficient to allow further elastic deformation by applying a force when the elastic surface structures 70A are already elastically deformed by the weight of the cable distributor 20A mounted on them. With this thickness, even in the event of warping or distortion of the cable distributor 20A, the elastic surface structures 70A can fully contact and thus fully support the sections of the cable distributor 20A attached to them. As described in Fig. As shown in Figure 1A, the multiple elastic surface structures 70A are spaced apart from one another in a cylindrical axis direction in which the cable distributor 20A extends. Due to this configuration, the multiple elastic surface structures 70A support the entire cable distributor 20A uniformly. Consequently, the cable distributor 20A is less likely to loosen on the support plate 60 and is stable on the support plate 60.

[0022] Although Fig. Figure 1A shows the elastic surface structures 70A arranged with different step sizes; the elastic surface structures 70A can also be arranged with the same step sizes. The thickness, width, and length of the elastic surface structures 70A can differ from one another. Likewise, the respective hardness of the elastic surface structures 70A can differ from one elastic surface structure 70A to another. The support plate 60 described above is an example of a support element according to the present disclosure.

[0023] As described above, in the heat exchanger 1A according to embodiment 1, the elastic surface structures 70A are arranged between the manifold 20A and the support plate 60, are elastically deformed by the weight of the manifold 20A, and are elastically deformable in response to an impact exerted on the manifold 20A or the support plate 60. Consequently, it is less likely that the manifold 20A will loosen relative to the support plate 60. Furthermore, it is less likely that, in the heat exchanger 1A, even if an impact is exerted on the support plate 60, this impact will be transmitted to the manifold 20A.

[0024] Furthermore, even if the manifold 20A is warped or distorted, it can be mounted in a stable position on the support plate 60. It is also less likely that the manifold 20A will loosen. Consequently, even if, for example, the heat exchanger 1A vibrates vertically during transport, the elastic surface structures 70A absorb the vibration, allowing the manifold 20A to remain stable on the support plate 60. Moreover, due to the stability of the manifold 20A on the support plate 60, the connections between the manifold 20A and other components, such as the connections between the manifold 20A and the heat transfer lines 40, are less susceptible to shock, thus increasing the reliability of the heat exchanger 1A.

[0025] The heat exchanger 1A is expediently manufactured using a process which includes (1) a process for manufacturing the manifolds 10 and 20A to which the heat transfer lines 40 and the fins 50 are attached, and (2) a process for arranging the elastic surface structures 70A, which are elastically deformable in response to an impact exerted on the manifold 20A or the support plate 60, between the support plate 60 and the manifold 20A of the manifolds 10 and 20A. The process of arranging the elastic surface structures 70A desirablely includes arranging the cable distributor 20A above the support plate 60 in order to cause the elastic surface structures 70A to be elastically deformed by the weight of the cable distributor 20A, and thereby to cause the support plate 60 to bear the cable distributor 20A. First modified example of heat exchanger 1A

[0026] Although in embodiment 1 the line distributor 20A has a circular shape, the line distributor 20A is not limited to this configuration. The line distributor 20A can be any element that can be coupled to the heat transfer lines 40 to allow the refrigerant to flow through it, and can have any shape that satisfies this condition.

[0027] Fig. Figure 2A is a front view of a first modified example of the heat exchanger 1A according to embodiment 1. Fig. 2B is a right side view of the first modified example of heat exchanger 1A. Fig. 2C is a top view of the first modified example of heat exchanger 1A.

[0028] As in the Fig. As shown in 2A to 2C, the 20A distribution box can have the shape of a rectangular cable. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 2B, the cable distributor 20A can, in detail, have the form of a square (pipe) conduit with a square (pipe) cross-section. Even with such a shape, the elastic surface structures 70A arranged between the cable distributor 20A and the support plate 60 prevent the cable distributor 20A from loosening. Second modified example and third modified example of heat exchanger 1A

[0029] Although in embodiment 1 the cable distributor 20A extends linearly, the cable distributor 20A is not limited to this configuration. The cable distributor 20A can have any shape that fulfills the aforementioned condition and can, for example, be curved.

[0030] Fig. Figure 3A is a front view of a second modified example of the heat exchanger 1A according to embodiment 1. Fig. 3B is a right side view of the second modified example of heat exchanger 1A. Fig. 3C is a top view of the second modified example of heat exchanger 1A. Fig. 4A is a front view of a third modified example of heat exchanger 1A. Fig. 4B is a right side view of the third modified example of heat exchanger 1A. Fig. 4C is a top view of the third modified example of heat exchanger 1A.

[0031] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 3A to 3C, the cable distributor 20A can be curved in the top-bottom direction. For example, the cable distributor 20A can be curved into an upward convex shape. In this case, a desirable configuration is provided in which an elastic surface structure 71A is arranged on section P1, which, due to the curvature of the cable distributor 20A into the upward convex shape, is the section furthest from the support plate 60. This elastic surface structure 71A is thicker than the gap between section P1 and the support plate 60 and is elastically deformed. Another desirable configuration, although not shown, is in which several elastic surface structures 70A are stacked so that they are thicker than the gap between section P1 and the support plate 60. Such an arrangement makes it possible to prevent the cable distributor 20A from loosening.

[0032] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 4A to 4C, the cable distributor 20A can further be curved into a downward convex shape. In this case, the desirable configuration is such that an elastic surface structure 72A is arranged on a section P2 of the cable distributor 20A, which, due to the curvature of the cable distributor 20A into the downward convex shape, is the section closest to the support plate 60. This elastic surface structure 72A is thicker than the gap between section P2 and the support plate 60. The elastic surface structure 72A is preferably elastically deformed to close the gap and support the cable distributor 20A.

[0033] Each of the elastic surface structures 70A, which support the corresponding end of both ends of the cable distributor 20A, can be formed by stacking several elastic surface structures, each thinner than the elastic surface structure 70A, such as by stacking several elastic surface structures 72A. Fourth modified example and fifth modified example of heat exchanger 1A

[0034] Although embodiment 1 describes an example in which three elastic surface structures 70A are spaced apart from each other in the cylinder axis direction of the line distributor 20A, and thus the three elastic surface structures 70A support the entire line distributor 20A uniformly, the arrangement and the number of elastic surface structures 70A are not limited to this configuration.

[0035] Fig. Figure 5A is a front view of a fourth modified example of the heat exchanger 1A according to embodiment 1. Fig. 5B is a right side view of the fourth modified example of heat exchanger 1A. Fig. 5C is a top view of the fourth modified example of heat exchanger 1A. Fig. 6A is a front view of a fifth modified example of heat exchanger 1A. Fig. Figure 6B is a right side view of the fifth modified example of heat exchanger 1A. Fig. Figure 6C is a top view of the fifth modified example of heat exchanger 1A.

[0036] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 5A to 5C, the cable distributor 20A can comprise the elastic surface structures 70A, each supporting the corresponding end face of both end faces in the cylindrical axis direction of the cable distributor 20A (i.e., each supporting the corresponding end of the +X end and -X end of the cable distributor 20A), and an elastic surface structure 73A, which has a lesser thickness than the elastic surface structures 70A and is arranged in the X direction below the center of the cable distributor 20A. In this case, the elastic surface structure 73A can define a gap with the cable distributor 20A. The elastic surface structure 73A can touch the manifold 20A and absorb the shock of the manifold 20A when a downward shock, such as a shock during an earthquake or a shock of vibration during transport, is exerted on the heat exchanger 1A.

[0037] As in the Fig. As shown in 6A to 6C, several elastic surface structures 73A can be arranged. With this configuration, similar to the fourth modified example shown in the Fig. As shown in 5A to 5C, contact with the line distributor 20A and absorption of the shock of the line distributor 20A are achieved when a downward shock is applied to the heat exchanger 1A. Design 2

[0038] Although the manifold 20A in embodiment 1 has the form of a circular conduit and is a single element, the manifold 20A is not limited to this configuration. The manifold 20A can be any element that can be coupled to the heat transfer lines 40 to allow the refrigerant to flow between them, and can be formed by a combination of several elements that fulfill this condition.

[0039] In a heat exchanger 1B according to embodiment 2, a line distributor 20B is formed by a combination of two parts / elements. The following refers to the Fig. Sections 7A to 7C of the heat exchanger 1B according to embodiment 2 are described. The description of embodiment 2 focuses mainly on the differences compared to embodiment 1.

[0040] Fig. Figure 7A is a front view of the heat exchanger 1B according to embodiment 2. Fig. 7B is a right side view of heat exchanger 1B. Fig. 7C is a top view of heat exchanger 1B.

[0041] As in the Fig. As shown in 7A to 7C, the cable distributor 20B comprises a lower part / bottom element 21L with a recess 214 and a top part / top element 21U, which covers the lower part 21L.

[0042] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7B, the lower part 21L has a rectangular U-shape, which, when viewed from one side, defines an upward-facing opening. Specifically, the lower part 21L has a side wall 211 that extends linearly in the top-bottom direction (Z-direction) when viewed from one side; a side wall 212 that extends linearly in the Z-direction and faces the side wall 211 in a front-back direction (Y-direction); and a bottom section 213 that extends with a curvature in the -Z-direction in the Y-direction and connects the -Z-ends of the side walls 211 and 212. Due to this configuration, the side walls 211 and 212 and the bottom section 213 define an interior space with an open +Z-side, i.e., the recess 214. Although not shown, recess 214 serves as a flow path.

[0043] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7B, the upper part 21U has a rectangular U-shape which, when viewed from one side, defines a downward-facing opening and covers the lower part 21L. Specifically, when viewed from one side, the upper part 21U has a side wall 215 extending linearly in the Z-direction and touching the +Y-surface of the side wall 211 of the lower part 21L, i.e., an outer wall surface; a side wall 216 extending linearly in the Z-direction and touching the -Y-surface of the side wall 212 of the lower part 21L, i.e., an outer wall surface; and an upward surface portion 217 extending with a curvature in the +Z-direction in the Y-direction and connecting the +Z-ends of the side walls 215 and 216. Although not shown, the side walls 215 and 216 are soldered to the side walls 211 and 212 of the lower part 21L at the sections touching the side walls 211 and 212.

[0044] Due to this configuration, the upper part 21U covers the lower part 21L from above and closes the opening of the recess 214. As shown in the Fig. 7A and Fig. As shown in Figure 7B, the side walls 215 and 216 of the upper part 21U extend additionally in the X direction, thus covering the entire recess 214, which extends in the same direction. Due to the aforementioned configuration, the upper part 21U together with the lower part 21L forms a (pipe) conduit that allows the refrigerant to flow through it and has an elongated circular cross-sectional shape.

[0045] As described above, the cable distributor 20B is formed by a combination of the lower part 21L and the upper part 21U. Similar to the cable distributor 20A described in embodiment 1, the cable distributor 20B can also loosen on the +Z side of the support plate 60. Therefore, in the cable distributor 20B, the bottom section 213 of the lower part 21L, which is located on the outermost -Z side of the cable distributor 20B, is attached to the +Z surfaces of the elastic surface structures 70B. This prevents the cable distributor 20B from loosening. Furthermore, since the cable distributor 20B is supported by the elastic surface structures 70B, it is less likely that an impact will be transmitted to the cable distributor 20B.

[0046] The sidewalls 211 and 212 contained in the lower part 21L, as described above, are examples of a first sidewall and a second sidewall of the present disclosure. The -Z ends of the sidewalls 211 and 212 are examples of the lower ends of the first sidewall and the second sidewall of the present disclosure. The sidewalls 215 and 216 contained in the upper part 21U are examples of a third sidewall and a fourth sidewall of the present disclosure. The +Z ends of the sidewalls 215 and 216 are examples of the upper ends of the third sidewall and the fourth sidewall of the present disclosure. The upper surface section 217 is an example of a first upper surface section of the present disclosure.

[0047] As described above, the bottom section 213 of the lower part 21L in the heat exchanger 1B according to embodiment 2 is supported by the elastic surface structures 70B. Due to this configuration, it is less likely that the manifold 20B will loosen, even though it is formed by a combination of the lower part 21L and the upper part 21U. Furthermore, it is less likely that an impact will be transmitted to the manifold 20B. First modified example of heat exchanger 1B

[0048] Although embodiment 2 describes an example in which the upper surface section 217 of the upper part 21U and the bottom section 213 of the lower part 21L, contained in the cable distributor 20B, are curved, and thus the cable distributor 20B has an elongated circular shape as seen in a cable cross-sectional view, the cable distributor 20B is not limited to this configuration. The cable distributor 20B can have the shape of a rectangular cable.

[0049] Fig. Figure 8A is a front view of a first modified example of the heat exchanger 1B according to embodiment 2. Fig. 8B is a right side view of the first modified example of heat exchanger 1B. Fig. Figure 8C is a top view of the first modified example of heat exchanger 1B.

[0050] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 8A to 8C, in cable distributor 20B, the upper surface section 217 of the upper part 21U and the bottom section 213 of the lower part 21L can extend linearly in the Y direction and parallel to the XY plane when viewed from one side. Thus, the upper part 21U can have the shape of a rectangular box elongated in the X direction, with the -Z side open, and the lower part 21L can have the shape of a rectangular box elongated in the X direction, with the +Z side open. Due to the aforementioned shapes of the upper part 21U and the lower part 21L, the cable distributor 20B can have the shape of a rectangular (pipe) conduit. Even in such a shape, the elastic surface structures 70B arranged between the cable distributor 20B and the support plate 60 make it possible to prevent the cable distributor 20B from loosening. Second modified example and third modified example of heat exchanger 1B

[0051] Similar to the configuration described in embodiment 1, the cable distributor 20B can be curved according to embodiment 2.

[0052] Fig. Figure 9A is a front view of a second modified example of the heat exchanger 1B according to embodiment 2. Fig. 9B is a right side view of the second modified example of heat exchanger 1B. Fig. 9C is a top view of the second modified example of heat exchanger 1B. Fig. Figure 10A is a front view of a third modified example of heat exchanger 1B. Fig. Figure 10B is a right side view of the third modified example of heat exchanger 1B. Fig. Figure 10C is a top view of the third modified example of heat exchanger 1B.

[0053] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 9A to 9C, the cable distributor 20B can be curved in the Z-direction. For example, the cable distributor 20B can be curved into a convex shape in the +Z-direction, similar to the second modified example of the cable distributor 20A described in embodiment 1. In this case, similar to the case of the cable distributor 20A of the second modified example, a desirable configuration is to arrange an elastic surface structure 71B on a section P1 of the cable distributor 20B, the structure being thicker than the gap between section P1 and the support plate 60, or, although not shown, to stack several elastic surface structures 70A there. Such arrangements make it possible to prevent the cable distributor 20B from loosening.

[0054] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 10A to 10C, the cable distributor 20B can further be curved into a downward convex shape, similar to the third modified example of the cable distributor 20A described in embodiment 1. In this case, similar to the cable distributor 20A of the third modified example, the configuration is desirable in which an elastic surface structure 72B is arranged on a section P2, the structure being thicker than the gap between section P2 and the support plate 60. The elastic surface structure 72A is preferably elastically deformed to close the gap and support the cable distributor 20B.

[0055] Similar to the third modified example of embodiment 1, each of the elastic surface structures 70B, which support the associated end of both ends of the conductor distributor 20B, can be formed by stacking several elastic surface structures, each thinner than the elastic surface structure 70B, such as by stacking several elastic surface structures 72B. embodiment 3

[0056] Although embodiment 2 describes a configuration in which the upper part 21U of the line distributor 20B completely covers the lower part 21L from the +Z side, the upper part 21U may only close the recess 214 of the lower part 21L.

[0057] In a heat exchanger 1C according to embodiment 3, an upper part 22U of a manifold 20C covers a recess 224 of a lower part 22L. The following refers to the Fig. Sections 11A to 11C describe the heat exchanger 1C according to embodiment 3. The description of embodiment 3 focuses primarily on the differences compared to embodiments 1 and 2.

[0058] Fig. 11A is a front view of the heat exchanger 1C according to embodiment 3. Fig. 11B is a right side view of heat exchanger 1C. Fig. 11C is a top view of heat exchanger 1C.

[0059] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 11A to 11C, in heat exchanger 1C, the depth of the lower part 22L in the front-to-back direction, i.e., the depth in the Y-direction, is greater than the depth in the Y-direction of the lower part 21L of heat exchanger 1B according to embodiment 2. Furthermore, the height of the lower part 22L in the top-to-bottom direction, i.e., the height in the Z-direction, is greater than the height of the lower part 21L in the Z-direction of embodiment 2. In short, as shown in Fig. 11B shows the side walls 221 and 222 and a bottom section 223 of the lower part 22L being larger by a certain rate than that of the lower part 21L of the heat exchanger 1B, and therefore the lower part 22L is slightly larger when viewed from one side than the lower part 21L of the heat exchanger 1B.

[0060] With respect to the upper part 22U, a side wall 225 extends linearly in the Z-direction along an inner wall of the side wall 221 of the lower part 22L, and a side wall 226 extends linearly in the Z-direction along an inner wall of the side wall 222 of the lower part 22L, which faces the inner wall of the side wall 221. The side wall 225 and the side wall 226 of the upper part 22U face each other in the Y-direction and extend outwards from the inside of the recess 224 to the same height in the Z-direction. The +Z ends of the side wall 225 and the side wall 226 are connected to each other via a top surface section 227, which is curved in the +Z-direction. The side walls 225 and 226 are soldered to the side walls 221 and 222 of the lower part 22L at the sections of the outer wall surfaces that touch the side walls 221 and 222.

[0061] Due to this configuration, the upper part 22U closes the opening of the recess 224 of the lower part 22L. Because of the aforementioned configuration, the upper part 22U and the lower part 22L form a (pipe) conduit with an elongated circular cross-sectional shape.

[0062] With the configuration of the cable distributor 20C, in which the upper part 21U only covers the recess 224 of the lower part 21L, the cable distributor 20C can loosen on the +Z side of the support plate 60. To prevent this loosening, the bottom section 223 of the lower part 22L, which is located on the outermost -Z side of the cable distributor 20B, is therefore attached to the +Z surfaces of the elastic surface structures 70C. This prevents the cable distributor 20C from loosening and also prevents the transmission of an impact from the support plate 60 to the cable distributor 20B.

[0063] The sidewalls 221 and 222 contained in the lower part 22L, as described above, are examples of a first sidewall and a second sidewall of the present disclosure. The -Z ends of sidewalls 221 and 222 are examples of lower ends of the first sidewall and the second sidewall of the present disclosure. The sidewalls 225 and 226 contained in the upper part 22U are examples of a fifth sidewall and a sixth sidewall of the present disclosure. The +Z ends of sidewalls 225 and 226 are examples of upper ends of the fifth sidewall and the sixth sidewall of the present disclosure. The upper surface section 227 is an example of a second upper surface section of the present disclosure.

[0064] As described above, the bottom section 223 of the lower part 22L in the heat exchanger 1C according to embodiment 3 is supported by the elastic surface structures 70C, similar to embodiment 2. Due to this configuration, it is less likely that the manifold 20C will loosen, even though the upper part 21U is fitted into the recess 224 of the lower part 21L and closes the opening of the recess 224. Furthermore, it is less likely that an impact will be transmitted to the manifold 20C.

[0065] First modified example and second modified example of the heat exchanger 1C. Similar to the cases of the configuration described in embodiments 1 and 2, the manifold 20C can be curved according to embodiment 3.

[0066] Fig. Figure 12A is a front view of a first modified example of the heat exchanger 1C according to embodiment 3. Fig. Figure 12B is a right side view of the first modified example of the heat exchanger 1C. Fig. Figure 12C is a top view of the first modified example of the heat exchanger 1C. Fig. 13A is a front view of a second modified example of the heat exchanger 1C. Fig. Figure 13B is a right side view of the second modified example of heat exchanger 1C. Fig. Figure 13C is a top view of the second modified example of heat exchanger 1C.

[0067] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 12A to 12C, the cable distributor 20C can be curved in the Z-direction. For example, the cable distributor 20C can be curved into a convex shape in the +Z-direction, similar to the second modified examples of cable distributors 20A and 20B described in embodiments 1 and 2. In this case, similar to the cases of the second modified examples of embodiments 1 and 2, a desirable configuration is provided in which an elastic surface structure 71C is arranged on a section P1 of the cable distributor 20C, the thickness of which is greater than the gap between section P1 and the support plate 60, or, although not shown, several elastic surface structures 70C are stacked there. Such arrangements make it possible to prevent the cable distributor 20C from loosening.

[0068] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 13A to 13C, the cable distributor 20C can further be curved into a downwardly convex shape, similar to the third modified examples of the cable distributors 20A and 20B described in embodiments 1 and 2. In this case, similar to the cable distributors 20A and 20B of the third modified example, the configuration is desirable in which an elastic surface structure 72C is arranged on a section P2, the structure being thicker than the gap between section P2 and the support plate 60, and the elastic surface structure 72C is elastically deformed to close the gap and thereby support the cable distributor 20C.

[0069] Similar to the third modified examples of embodiments 1 and 2, each of the elastic surface structures 70C, which support the associated end of both ends of the conductor distributor 20C, can be formed by stacking several elastic surface structures, each thinner than the elastic surface structure 70C, such as by stacking several elastic surface structures 72C. Design 4

[0070] In embodiment 2, the upper part 21U of the cable distributor 20B covers the lower part 21L, and the side walls 215 and 216 of the upper part 21U are soldered to the side walls 211 and 212 of the lower part 21L. Furthermore, in embodiment 3, the upper part 22U of the cable distributor 20C is fitted into the recess 224 of the lower part 22L, and the side walls 225 and 226 of the upper part 22U are soldered to the side walls 221 and 222 of the lower part 22L. However, the cable distributors 20B and 20C are not limited to these configurations. The upper parts 21U and 22U and the lower parts 21L and 22L can be joined by methods other than soldering.

[0071] In a heat exchanger 1D according to embodiment 4, an upper part 23U of a manifold 20D is connected to a lower part 23L by means of claws 31 and 32. The following refers to the Fig. Sections 14A to 14C describe the heat exchanger 1D according to embodiment 4. The description of embodiment 4 focuses mainly on the differences compared to embodiments 1 to 3.

[0072] Fig. 14A is a front view of the heat exchanger 1D according to embodiment 4. Fig. 14B is a right side view of heat exchanger 1D. Fig. 14C is a top view of the heat exchanger 1D.

[0073] Although Fig. Figure 14A shows claws 31 and 32 as being of equal length in the front view for easier understanding; in reality, claws 31 are longer and claws 32 are shorter.

[0074] As in the Fig. As shown in figures 14A to 14C, the upper part 23U in the distribution box 20D has claws 31 and 32 for attaching the lower part 23L to itself.

[0075] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 14B, in the distribution box 20D, an upper surface section 237 of the upper part 23U is longer in the Y-direction than a bottom section 233 of the lower part 23L, and thus the upper part 23U covers the lower part 23L when viewed from one side, similar to embodiment 2. The upper part 23U has side walls 235 and 236 that contact the outer wall surfaces of the side walls 231 and 232 of the lower part 23L. The side walls 235 and 236 of the upper part 23U, as above, have claws 31 and 32 at their Z-ends.

[0076] The claws 31 have the shape of a square prism curved along a base section 233 of the lower part 23L. The claws 32 have the shape of a square prism extending in a straight line in the -Z direction. Due to the aforementioned shape of the claws 31 and 32, the upper part 23U secures the lower part 23L to itself while covering the lower part 23L.

[0077] As in the Fig. 14A and Fig. As shown in Figure 14B, the side walls 235 and 236 of the upper part 23U extend in the same direction as a recess 234, i.e., in the X-direction, as do the side walls 231 and 232 of the lower part 23L. The claws 31 and 32 are arranged alternately in the X-direction at each of the lower ends of the side walls 235 and 236. Due to this configuration, the claws 31 and 32 fully secure the lower part 23L to the upper part 23U in the X-direction, i.e., the direction in which the recess 234 extends. Since the claws 31 secure the lower part 23L to the upper part 23U by the soldering described in embodiments 2 and 3, the upper part 23U exhibits a high bond strength with the lower part 23L.

[0078] As described above, the claws 31 have a section that is bent along the bottom section 233 of the lower part 23L. Consequently, the -Z ends of the claws 31 are positioned on the -Z side with respect to the bottom section 233, as shown in Fig. Figure 14B illustrates this. As described above, the claws 32 also extend in a straight line in the -Z direction. Consequently, the -Z ends of the claws 32 project forward on the -Z side with respect to the base section 233. Since the -Z ends of the claws 31 and 32 are positioned as described above, it is likely that the cable distributor 20D mounted on the support plate 60 will loosen. Therefore, the -Z ends of the claws 31 and 32 are attached to elastic surface structures 70D. This prevents the cable distributor 20D from loosening and also prevents the transmission of an impact from the support plate 60 to it.

[0079] Claws 31 and 32 of the side wall 235 encompassed by the upper part 23U are examples of a first claw of the present revelation. Claws 31 and 32 of the side wall 236 encompassed by the upper part 23U are examples of a second claw of the present revelation.

[0080] As described above, the claws 31 and 32 of the upper part 23U are supported in the heat exchanger 1D according to embodiment 4 by the elastic surface structures 70D. Due to this configuration, it is less likely that the manifold 20D will loosen, even though the claws 31 and 32 protrude on the -Z side with respect to the bottom section 233 of the lower part 22L. Furthermore, it is less likely that an impact will be transmitted to the manifold 20D. First modified example of the 1D heat exchanger

[0081] While the upper part 23U of the cable distributor 20D according to embodiment 4 has claws 31 and 32 in embodiments 2 to 4, the upper parts 21U and 22U of the cable distributors 20B and 20C according to embodiments 2 and 3 do not have claws 31 and 32. That is, whether claws 31 and 32 are included is optional. Accordingly, it is also optional whether claws 31 and 32 are curved or straight.

[0082] Fig. Figure 15A is a front view of a first modified example of the heat exchanger 1D according to embodiment 4. Fig. Figure 15B is a right side view of the first modified example of the heat exchanger 1D. Fig. Figure 15C is a top view of the first modified example of the heat exchanger 1D.

[0083] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 15A to 15C, the configuration can be used in which each of the side walls 235 and 236 of the upper part 23U has the claws 31 described in embodiment 4 and does not have the claws 32 described in embodiment 4. Thus, all claws 31 of the upper part 23U can have a section that is bent along the bottom section 233 of the lower part 23L. In this case, any configuration can be used in which the elastic surface structures 70D are positioned on the -Z side with respect to the claws 31. This prevents loosening and also prevents the transmission of an impact from the support plate 60. Second modified example of the 1D heat exchanger

[0084] Similar to the other embodiments, the line distributor 20D can be curved according to embodiment 4.

[0085] Fig. Figure 16A is a front view of a second modified example of the heat exchanger 1D according to embodiment 4. Fig. Figure 16B is a right side view of the second modified example of the heat exchanger 1D. Fig. Figure 16C is a top view of the second modified example of the heat exchanger 1D.

[0086] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 16A to 16C, a configuration can be used in which some of the claws 31 of the upper part 23U are more strongly curved than the other claws 31, and thus the -Z-side surface of the conductor distributor 20D is convex upwards. In this case, the configuration is desirable in which an elastic surface structure 71D is arranged on a section P3, which, due to the convexity of the conductor distributor 20D, is the section furthest from the support plate 60. This elastic surface structure 71D is thicker than the gap between section P3 and the support plate 60. Alternatively, although not shown, several elastic surface structures 70D may be stacked there. Third modified example of the 1D heat exchanger

[0087] Although in the second modified example of the heat exchanger 1D the elastic surface structure 71D, which is thick, is arranged at section P3, the heat exchanger 1D is not limited to this configuration.

[0088] Fig. Figure 17A is a front view of a third modified example of the heat exchanger 1D according to embodiment 4. Fig. Figure 17B is a right side view of the third modified example of the heat exchanger 1D. Fig. Figure 17C is a top view of the second modified example of the heat exchanger 1D.

[0089] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 17A to 17C, the configuration can be used in which an elastic surface structure 73D is arranged on the aforementioned section P3 of the manifold 20D, the elastic surface structure being thinner than the gap between section P3 and the support plate 60. In this case, the elastic surface structure 73D can contact the manifold 20A and absorb the shock of the manifold 20A when a downward shock is exerted on the heat exchanger 1A, such as a shock during an earthquake or a shock from vibration during transport.

[0090] Each of the elastic surface structures 70D, which support the corresponding end of both ends of the conductor distributor 20D, can be formed by stacking several elastic surface structures, each thinner than the elastic surface structure 70D, such as by stacking several elastic surface structures 73D. Fourth modified example of the 1D heat exchanger

[0091] The length of the claws 31 and 32 of the upper part 23U can be freely chosen.

[0092] Fig. Figure 18A is a front view of a fourth modified example of the heat exchanger 1D according to embodiment 4. Fig. Figure 18B is a right side view of the fourth modified example of the heat exchanger 1D. Fig. 18C is a top view of the fourth modified example of the heat exchanger 1D.

[0093] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 18A to 18C, the configuration can be used in which the upper part 23U has the claws 31 described in embodiment 4 and has claws 33 that are shorter than claws 31 and 32. In this case, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 18A, the claws 31 are arranged between assembly sections, each consisting of several claws 33 arranged continuously in the X-direction. Unlike the claws 31, the claws 33 are short enough not to be bent along the bottom section 233 of the lower part 23L and thus do not project further in the -Z-direction than the claws 31. Due to this shape, the assembly sections, each consisting of several claws 33 arranged continuously in the X-direction, are preferably attached to the elastic surface structures 70D. In this case, the claws 31 are preferably not attached to the elastic surface structures 70D, so that the -Z-ends of the claws 31 and the support plate 60 define gaps. That is, the claws 31 preferably do not touch the support plate 60. Fifth modified example of the 1D heat exchanger

[0094] Although the claws 31 and 32 are attached to the elastic surface structures 70D in embodiment 4, other sections can be attached to the elastic surface structures 70D. The elastic surface structures 70D can be freely arranged between the cable distributor 20D and the support plate 60 in order to deform elastically under the weight of the cable distributor 20D and to be elastically deformable in response to the impact exerted on the cable distributor 20D or the support plate 60. Any sections of the cable distributor 20D that meet this condition can be attached to the elastic surface structures 70D.

[0095] Fig. Figure 19A is a front view of a fifth modified example of the heat exchanger 1D according to embodiment 4. Fig. Figure 19B is a right side view of the fifth modified example of the heat exchanger 1D. Fig. 19C is a top view of the fifth modified example of the heat exchanger 1D.

[0096] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 19A to 19C, the elastic surface structures 70D can be arranged between the claws 31 along the X-direction in which the claws 31 are arranged. In this case, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 19B, the bottom section 233 of the lower part 23L is preferably attached / mounted to the elastic surface structures 70D. In this case, they touch, as shown in Figure 19B. Fig. As shown in Figure 19A, the claws 31 do not preferably meet the carrier plate 60, so that the -Z ends of the claws 31 and the carrier plate 60 define a gap. Sixth modified example and seventh modified example of the 1D heat exchanger

[0097] Only the claws that are not bent and extend straight in the -Z direction can be attached / mounted on the elastic surface structures 70D.

[0098] Fig. Figure 20A is a front view of a sixth modified example of the heat exchanger 1D according to embodiment 4. Fig. Figure 20B is a right side view of the sixth modified example of the heat exchanger 1D. Fig. 20C is a top view of the sixth modified example of the heat exchanger 1D.

[0099] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 20A to 20C, the configuration can be used in which the upper part 23U has the claws 31 described in embodiment 4 and claws 34 that are longer than the claws 32 described in embodiment 4 and extend straight in the -Z direction. In this case, since the claws 34 project on the -Z side relative to the claws 31, it is preferable to attach / mount only the claws 34 to the elastic surface structures 70D.

[0100] Fig. Figure 21A is a front view of a seventh modified example of the heat exchanger 1D according to embodiment 4. Fig. Figure 21B is a right side view of the seventh modified example of the heat exchanger 1D. Fig. 21C is a top view of the seventh modified example of the heat exchanger 1D.

[0101] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 21A to 21C, the configuration can be used in which the upper part 23U has only the claws 34, which are longer than the claws 32 described in embodiment 4 and extend straight in the -Z direction. In this case, since the claws 34 project on the -Z side with respect to the bottom section 233 of the lower part 23L, the claws 34 are preferably attached / mounted on the elastic surface structures 70D. Design 5

[0102] Although the upper part 23U, which completely covers the lower part 23L, has the claws 31 and 32 in the heat exchanger 1D according to embodiment 4, in the case of the configuration in which the upper part 23U is fitted into the recess 234 of the lower part 23L, the lower part 23L can have the claws 31 and 32.

[0103] In a heat exchanger 1E according to embodiment 5, a lower part 24L of a manifold 20E has claws 35 for attaching an upper part 24U to itself. The following refers to the Fig. 22A to 22C of the heat exchanger 1E according to embodiment 5 described.

[0104] The description of embodiment 5 focuses mainly on the differences compared to embodiments 1 to 4.

[0105] Fig. Figure 22A is a front view of the heat exchanger 1E according to embodiment 5. Fig. 22B is a right side view of heat exchanger 1E. Fig. 22C is a top view of heat exchanger 1E.

[0106] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 22B, in the distribution box 20E, a bottom section 243 of the lower part 24L is longer in the Y-direction than a top surface section 247 of the upper part 24U, and thus the lower part 24L has a recess 244 that is large in the Y-direction. Therefore, similar to embodiment 3, the upper part 24U fits into the recess 244 of the lower part 24L. Due to the fitting of the upper part 24U into the recess 244 of the lower part 24L, side walls 245 and 246 of the upper part 24U contact inner wall surfaces of side walls 241 and 242 of the lower part 24L. The side walls 241 and 242 of the above lower part 24L have claws 35 at their +Z ends.

[0107] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 22A to 22C, the claws 35 have the shape of a square prism extending in the +Z direction. Although from the Fig. For the sake of simplicity, figures 22A to 22C do not show the claws 35, which extend in the +Z direction along the side walls 245 and 246 of the upper part 24U and are then bent to be positioned along the upper surface section 247. The claws 35 are soldered to the side walls 245 and 246 and the upper surface section 247. Due to the aforementioned configuration, the claws 35 secure the upper part 24U to the lower part 24L.

[0108] Even in the distribution box 20E, the bottom section 243 of the base 24L can warp or distort, which can cause it to loosen from its attachment to the support plate 60. Therefore, elastic surface structures 70E are arranged between the bottom section 243 of the base 24L and the support plate 60. In the distribution box 20E, the configuration of supporting the bottom section 243 of the base 24L with the elastic surface structures 70E prevents loosening and makes the transmission of an impact from the support plate 60 less likely.

[0109] The claws 35 of the side wall 241 encompassed by the lower part 24L are examples of the third claw of the present revelation. The claws 35 of the side wall 242 encompassed by the lower part 24L are examples of a fourth claw of the present revelation.

[0110] As described above, the bottom section 243 of the lower part 24L in the heat exchanger 1E according to embodiment 5 is supported by the elastic surface structures 70E. Due to this configuration, it is less likely that the manifold 20E will loosen, even though the lower part 24L is attached to the upper part 24U by the claws 35 of the side wall 241. Furthermore, it is less likely that an impact will be transmitted to the manifold 20E. Design 6

[0111] Although in heat exchangers 1A to 1E according to embodiments 1 to 5 a manifold 10 is connected to a manifold, i.e., manifolds 20A to 20E, the heat exchangers 1A to 1E are not limited to this configuration. The manifolds 10 and 20A to 20E in the heat exchangers 1A to 1E can be any elements that can be coupled to the heat transfer lines 40 to allow the refrigerant to flow through them. Thus, the number and shapes of the manifolds 10 and 20A to 20E can be freely chosen to meet this requirement.

[0112] In a heat exchanger 1F according to embodiment 6, two line distributors 20A, each of which is the line distributor 20A described in embodiment 1, are connected to a line distributor 10 via several heat transfer lines 40. The heat exchanger 1F according to embodiment 6 is described below with reference to the Fig. 23A to 23C are described. The description of embodiment 6 focuses mainly on the differences compared to embodiments 1 to 5.

[0113] Fig. Figure 23A is a front view of the heat exchanger 1F according to embodiment 6. Fig. 23B is a right side view of heat exchanger 1F. Fig. 23C is a top view of heat exchanger 1F.

[0114] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 23A to 23C, the heat exchanger 1F comprises the line distributor 10, which is arranged on the top, the two line distributors 20A, which are arranged on the underside of the line distributor 10 and facing the line distributor 10, and several elastic surface structures 70F, which are arranged on the carrier plate 60 and which support the two line distributors 20A.

[0115] The distribution manifold 10 is wider than the distribution manifold 10 described in embodiments 1 to 5. That is, the distribution manifold 10 according to embodiment 6 is wider in the Y-direction than the distribution manifold 10 described in embodiments 1 to 5. In addition, the heat exchanger 1F, as described in Fig. Figure 23C shows heat transfer lines 40, each extending in the Z direction, arranged along the X direction to form a row, and two rows, each formed by heat transfer lines 40, aligned along the Y direction. The upper ends of the heat transfer lines 40 arranged in the two rows are connected to the line distributor 10.

[0116] Each of the two line distributors 20A has the same configuration as the line distributor 20A described in embodiment 1. Similar to embodiment 1, the cylinder axis of each of the line distributors 20A corresponds to the X-direction. In contrast to the configuration of embodiment 1, the line distributors 20A have cylinder axes that are parallel to each other and spaced apart in the Y-direction. The spacing between the line distributors 20A in the Y-direction is the same as the spacing in the Y-direction of the series of heat transfer lines. The lower ends of the heat transfer lines 40 of each series are connected to the associated line distributor 20A.This enables refrigerant distribution via the heat transfer lines 40 and the manifold 10 from one manifold 20A to the other manifold 20A, that is, from the manifold 20A on the +Y side to the manifold 20A on the -Y side. This allows the heat exchanger 1F to have a higher heat transfer capacity than the heat exchanger 1A according to embodiment 1. To prevent the manifolds 20A from loosening on the support plate 60, several elastic surface structures 70F are arranged below the two manifolds 20A. Specifically, four elastic surface structures 70F are arranged.

[0117] Each of the elastic sheet structures 70F is made of the same material as the elastic sheet structures 70A described in embodiment 1. Each of the elastic sheet structures 70F has a rectangular shape that is more elongated than the elastic sheet structure 70A, and these elastic sheet structures 70F have the same thickness. The longitudinal direction of each of the elastic sheet structures 70F corresponds to the Y-direction. The elastic sheet structures 70F are arranged along the X-direction. Due to the above configuration, the several elastic sheet structures 70F as a whole support the two cable distributors 20A and thereby prevent the cable distributors 20A from loosening.

[0118] The Fig. Figures 23A to 23C show the arrangement of four elastic surface structures 70F. These consist of elastic surface structures 70F that support the +X and -X ends and have a large width, and elastic surface structures 70F that support the central sections of the cable distribution boxes 20A with respect to the X direction and have a small width. The elastic surface structures 70F with the above widths are preferably arranged at intervals that result in a uniform load distribution in the cable distribution boxes 20A. The elastic surface structures 70F can have the same width in the X direction and be arranged at equal intervals.

[0119] One of the two line distributors 20A is an element for the flow of gaseous refrigerant and is an example of the first line distributor in the present disclosure. The other of the two line distributors 20A is an element for the flow of refrigerant in a liquid or gas-liquid state and is an example of the second line distributor in the present disclosure. First modified example of the 1F heat exchanger

[0120] Although the elastic surface structures 70F in the heat exchanger 1F according to embodiment 6 have the same thickness, the elastic surface structures 70F can have different thicknesses.

[0121] Fig. 24A is a front view of an early modified example of the heat exchanger 1F. Fig. Figure 24B is a right side view of the first modified example of the heat exchanger 1F. Fig. Figure 24C is a top view of the first modified example of the 1F heat exchanger.

[0122] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 24A to 24C, a configuration can be used in which elastic surface structures 73F, which are thinner than the elastic surface structures 70F, are arranged between some elastic surface structures 70A of several elastic surface structures 70F. Specifically, the elastic surface structures 73F, which are thinner than the elastic surface structures 70F and define gaps with the line distributors 20A, can be arranged between the elastic surface structures 70F that support the +X and -X ends of the line distributors 20A. The elastic surface structures 73F can touch the line distributors 20A and absorb the shock of the line distributors 20A when a downward shock is exerted on the heat exchanger 1F, such as a shock during an earthquake or a shock from vibration during transport.

[0123] The elastic surface structures 73F preferably have a thickness that is thinner than that of the elastic surface structures 70F, which are compressed by the attached cable distributors 20A. With this configuration, the elastic surface structures 73F can only contact the cable distributors 20A and absorb the impact of the cable distributors 20A when a downward impact is exerted on the heat exchanger 1F. Second modified example and third modified example of heat exchanger 1F

[0124] Although the heat exchanger 1F according to embodiment 6 comprises two line distributors, each of which is the line distributor 20A described in embodiment 1, the heat exchanger 1F is not limited to this configuration.

[0125] Fig. 25A is a front view of a second modified example of the heat exchanger 1F. Fig. Figure 25B is a right side view of the second modified example of heat exchanger 1F. Fig. Figure 25C is a top view of the second modified example of heat exchanger 1F.

[0126] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 25A to 25C, the heat exchanger 1F can comprise two line distributors instead of the two line distributors 20A, each being the line distributor 20B described in embodiment 2. Even with this configuration, refrigerant flow and heat exchange can be achieved similarly to the two line distributors 20A. Even with this configuration, the heat exchanger 1F preferably includes the elastic surface structures 70F. This allows the heat exchanger 1F to absorb the shock exerted on the line distributors 20B and thus prevents the line distributors 20B from loosening.

[0127] Fig. Figure 26A is a front view of a third modified example of the heat exchanger 1F. Fig. Figure 26B is a right side view of the third modified example of heat exchanger 1F. Fig. Figure 26C is a top view of the third modified example of heat exchanger 1F.

[0128] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 26A to 26C, the heat exchanger 1F can further comprise two line distributors instead of the two line distributors 20A, each being the line distributor 20D described in the first modified example of embodiment 4. In this case, the elastic surface structures 70F can support both ends and the middle two sections of the line distributors 20A with respect to one extension direction of the line distributors 20A, i.e., the +X ends, -X ends, and the middle two sections with respect to the X direction. The elastic surface structures 70F supporting the two middle sections of the line distributors 20A with respect to the X direction can have a smaller width than the elastic surface structures 70F supporting the +X ends and -X ends of the line distributors 20A.

[0129] Although the in the Fig. In the cable distributors 20D shown in Figures 26A to 26C, which have claws 31, the cable distributors 20D can additionally have claws 32. That is, each of these cable distributors 20D can be replaced by the cable distributor 20D described in embodiment 4, which has claws 31 and 32. In this case, the claws 32 can be curved similarly to the claws 31. Fourth modified example and fifth modified example of heat exchanger 1F

[0130] The third modified example of the heat exchanger 1F is not limited to the configuration of arranging four elastic surface structures 70F and includes any configuration of arranging one or more elastic surface structures 70F.

[0131] Fig. Figure 27A is a front view of a fourth modified example of the heat exchanger 1F. Fig.Figure 27B is a right side view of the fourth modified example of heat exchanger 1F. Fig. Figure 27C is a top view of the fourth modified example of heat exchanger 1F.

[0132] As in the Fig. As shown in 27A to 27C, the elastic surface structures 70F can support the +X ends and -X ends of the cable distributors 20A.

[0133] Fig. Figure 28A is a front view of a fifth modified example of the heat exchanger 1F. Fig. Figure 28B is a right side view of the fifth modified example of heat exchanger 1F. Fig. Figure 28C is a top view of the fifth modified example of heat exchanger 1F.

[0134] As in the Fig.As shown in Figures 28A to 28C, the configuration can be used in which the heat exchanger 1F includes, in addition to the elastic surface structures 70F, the elastic surface structures 73F, which are thinner than the elastic surface structures 70F. In short, the elastic surface structures 73F described in the first modified example of the heat exchanger 1F can be used in the heat exchanger 1F. Specifically, as described in the first modified example of the heat exchanger 1F, the elastic surface structures 73F, which are thinner than the elastic surface structures 70F and define the columns with the line distributors 20A, can be arranged in the heat exchanger 1F between the elastic surface structures 70F, which carry the +X ends and the -X ends of the line distributors 20D.

[0135] The heat exchangers 1A to 1F described above and the methods for manufacturing the heat exchangers 1A to 1F according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are merely examples.

[0136] Although embodiments 1 to 6, for example, describe the support plate 60 as a rectangular plate, the support plate 60 is not limited to a plate. The support plate 60 can be any part to which a manifold is mounted and which supports the manifold, which is a supporting element. For example, the support plate 60 can be replaced by a box that is open at the top and can collect condensate. The support plate 60 can be replaced by the housing of the outdoor unit of the air conditioner.

[0137] Although embodiments 1 to 6 describe the elastic surface structures 70A to 70F as having a rectangular shape, these structures are not limited to this configuration. The elastic surface structures 70A to 70F can be freely arranged between the cable distributors 20A to 20E and the support plate 60, i.e., the support element, in order to deform elastically under the weight of the cable distributors 20A to 20E and to be elastically deformable in response to the impact exerted on the cable distributors 20A to 20E or the support element. The elastic surface structures 70A to 70E can have any shape that fulfills this condition. For example, the elastic surface structures 70A to 70E can be similar in top view to the cable distributors 20A to 20E, and can be, for example, strip-shaped.Other examples include elastic surface structures 70A to 70E having an oval or polygonal shape.

[0138] The elastic sheet structures 70A to 70E can have any thickness that fulfills the aforementioned condition. Furthermore, the number of elastic sheet structures can be freely chosen to fulfill the aforementioned condition.

[0139] As described above, the embodiments described above are merely examples of heat exchangers 1A to 1F and the methods for manufacturing heat exchangers 1A to 1F, and these embodiments can accommodate various modifications and substitutions. Different aspects of the present disclosure are described below in the form of notes. Note 1

[0140] Heat exchangers, including: at least one manifold that is coupled to the heat transfer lines for a flow of refrigerant between the manifold and the heat transfer lines; a support element to which the distribution box is mounted and which carries the distribution box; and an elastic surface structure that is arranged between the cable distributor and the support part, is elastically deformed by the weight of the cable distributor and is elastically deformable in response to an impact exerted on the cable distributor or the support part. Note 2

[0141] Heat exchanger according to note 1, wherein one direction of extension of the heat transfer lines corresponds to a vertical direction, and The distribution box is cylindrical and has a cylinder axis that corresponds to a horizontal direction. Note 3

[0142] Heat exchanger according to note 1 or 2, wherein which includes at least one distribution manifold comprising a first distribution manifold for a flow of refrigerant in a gaseous state and a second distribution manifold for a flow of refrigerant in a liquid or gas-liquid state. Note 4

[0143] Heat exchanger according to one of Notes 1 to 3, wherein The distribution panel includes: a downward member comprising a first side wall, a second side wall facing the first side wall, and a bottom section connecting a lower end of the first side wall and a lower end of the second side wall, wherein the first side wall, the second side wall, and the bottom section define an interior space with an open top, and a top section that is coupled to the heat transfer lines and covers the interior. Note 5

[0144] Heat exchanger according to note 4, wherein the top has: a first upper surface section that covers the first side wall and the second side wall from above, a third side wall extending downwards from an end of the first upper surface section located near the first side wall and touching an outer surface of the first side wall, and a fourth side wall extending downwards from an end of the first upper surface section located near the second side wall and touching an outer surface of the second side wall, and a lower end of the third side wall and / or a lower end of the fourth side wall and / or the bottom section is attached to the elastic surface structure. Note 6

[0145] Heat exchanger according to note 5, wherein the third side wall extends in the vertical direction, which is perpendicular to an up-down direction and to a direction in which the first side wall and the second side wall face each other, and has several first claws at its lower end, each of the several first claws extending downwards from the lower end of the third side wall, the several first claws being arranged along the vertical direction, and the fourth side wall extends in a vertical direction, which is perpendicular to the top-bottom direction and to the direction in which the first side wall and the second side wall face each other, and has several second claws at its lower end, each of the several second claws extending downwards from the lower end of the fourth side wall, the several second claws being arranged along the vertical direction. Note 7

[0146] Heat exchanger according to note 6, wherein at least one of the first several claws extends along the first side wall and is then curved along the bottom section, and at least one of the several second claws extends along the second side wall and is then bent along the bottom section. Note 8

[0147] Heat exchanger according to note 6, wherein at least one of the first several claws extends under the first side wall, and at least one of the several second claws extends under the first side wall. Note 9

[0148] Heat exchanger according to note 7 or 8, wherein the several first claws have a lower end section that is attached to the elastic surface structure, and the multiple second claws have a lower end section that is attached to the elastic surface structure. Note 10

[0149] Heat exchanger according to note 7 or 8, wherein the floor section is attached to the elastic surface structure, the first several claws with a space defined between a lower end section of them and the support part are not attached to the elastic surface structure, and the several second claws with a space defined between a lower end section of these and the support part are not attached to the elastic surface structure. Note 11

[0150] Heat exchanger according to note 7 or 8, wherein some of the first several claws are attached to the elastic surface structure, other of the several first claws with a space defined between a lower end section of these and the support part are not attached to the elastic surface structure, some of the several second claws are attached to the elastic surface structure, and Others of the several second claws with a space defined between a lower end section of these and the support part are not attached to the elastic surface structure. Note 12

[0151] Heat exchanger according to one of Notes 4 to 11, wherein the top has: a fifth side wall that touches an inner wall surface of the first side wall, a sixth side wall that touches an inner wall surface of the second side wall, and a second upper surface section connecting an upper end of the fifth side wall and an upper end of the sixth side wall, and the floor section is attached to the elastic surface structure. Note 13

[0152] Heat exchanger according to note 12, wherein the first side wall extends in a vertical direction, which is perpendicular to an up-down direction and to a direction in which the first side wall and the second side wall face each other, and has several third claws at its upper end, each of the several third claws extending upwards from the upper end of the first side wall, the several third claws being arranged along the vertical direction, and the second side wall extends in the vertical direction and has several fourth claws at its upper end, each of the several fourth claws extending upwards from the upper end of the second side wall, the several fourth claws being arranged along the vertical direction. Note 14

[0153] Heat exchanger according to note 13, wherein at least one of the several third claws extends along the fifth side wall and is then curved along the second upper surface section, and at least one of the several fourth claws extends along the sixth side wall and is then curved along the second upper surface section. Note 15

[0154] Heat exchanger according to one of Notes 1 to 14, wherein the distribution box is a circular or a rectangular cable. Note 16

[0155] Method for manufacturing a heat exchanger, comprising the method: Arranging an elastic surface structure, which is elastically deformable in response to an impact exerted on a manifold or support element, between the support element and the manifold, which is coupled to the heat transfer lines for a flow of refrigerant between the manifold and heat transfer lines, in order to cause the elastic surface structure to deform elastically under the weight of the manifold and cause the support element to bear the manifold.

[0156] 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 more general idea and scope of protection of the invention. Accordingly, the description and the drawings are to be understood in an explanatory, not a limiting, sense. This detailed description is therefore not to be understood in a limiting sense, and the scope of protection of the invention is defined only by the accompanying claims, together with the full range of equivalents to which such claims entitle the holder.

[0157] This application claims priority over Japanese patent application No. 2023-60444, filed on April 3, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Reference symbol list 1A to 1F Heat exchangers 10, 20A to 20E distribution boxes 21U, 22U, 23U, 24U Top 21L, 22L, 23L, 24L lower section 31-35 Claw 40 Heat transfer line 50 rib 60 carrier plate 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D, 70E, 70F, 71A, 71B, 71C, 71D, 72A, 72B, 72C, 73A, 73D, 73F elastic surface structure 211, 212 side wall 213 Ground section 214 In-depth study 215, 216 side wall 217 upper surface section 221, 222 side wall 223 Soil section 224 In-depth study 225, 226 side panel 227 upper surface section 231, 232 side wall 233 Ground section 234 In-depth study 235, 236 side wall 237 upper surface section 241, 242 side wall 243 floor section 244 In-depth study 245, 246 side wall 247 upper surface section Sections P1 to P3 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 2010 - 25 462

[0004] JP 2023 - 60 444

[0157]

Claims

[1] Heat exchanger comprising: at least one manifold that is coupled to the heat transfer lines for a flow of refrigerant between the manifold and the heat transfer lines; a support element to which the distribution box is mounted and which supports the distribution box; and an elastic surface structure that is arranged between the cable distributor and the support part, is elastically deformed by the weight of the cable distributor and is elastically deformable in response to an impact exerted on the cable distributor or the support part. [2] Heat exchanger according to claim 1, wherein one direction of extension of the heat transfer lines corresponds to a vertical direction, and The distribution box is cylindrical and has a cylinder axis that corresponds to a horizontal direction. [3] Heat exchanger according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one manifold comprises a first manifold for a flow of refrigerant in a gaseous state and a second manifold for a flow of refrigerant in a liquid or gas-liquid state. [4] Heat exchanger according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the manifold comprises: a lower part comprising a first side wall, a second side wall facing the first side wall, and a bottom section connecting a lower end of the first side wall and a lower end of the second side wall, wherein the first side wall, the second side wall, and the bottom section define an interior space with an open top, and a top section that is coupled to the heat transfer lines and covers the interior. [5] Heat exchanger according to claim 4, wherein the upper part comprises: a first upper surface section that covers the first side wall and the second side wall from above, a third side wall extending downwards from an end of the first upper surface section located near the first side wall and touching an outer surface of the first side wall, and a fourth side wall extending downwards from an end of the first upper surface section located near the second side wall and touching an outer surface of the second side wall, and a lower end of the third side wall and / or a lower end of the fourth side wall and / or the bottom section is attached to the elastic surface structure. [6] Heat exchanger according to claim 5, wherein the third side wall extends in the vertical direction, which is perpendicular to an up-down direction and to a direction in which the first side wall and the second side wall face each other, and has several first claws at its lower end, each of the several first claws extending downwards from the lower end of the third side wall, the several first claws being arranged along the vertical direction, and the fourth side wall extends in a vertical direction, perpendicular to the top-bottom direction and to the direction in which the first side wall and the second side wall face each other, and has several second claws at its lower end, each of the several second claws extending downwards from the lower end of the fourth side wall, the several second claws being arranged along the vertical direction. [7] Heat exchanger according to claim 6, wherein at least one of the several first claws extends along the first side wall and is then curved along the bottom section, and at least one of the several second claws extends along the second side wall and is then bent along the bottom section. [8] Heat exchanger according to claim 6, wherein at least one of the several first claws extends under the first side wall, and at least one of the several second claws extends below the first side wall. [9] Heat exchanger according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the several first claws have a lower end section that is attached to the elastic surface structure, and the multiple second claws have a lower end section that is attached to the elastic surface structure. [10] Heat exchanger according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the floor section is attached to the elastic surface structure, the several first claws with a space defined between a lower end section thereof and the support part are not attached to the elastic surface structure, and the multiple second claws with a space defined between a lower end section thereof and the support part are not attached to the elastic surface structure. [11] Heat exchanger according to claim 7 or 8, wherein some of the first several claws are attached to the elastic surface structure, other of the several first claws with a space defined between a lower end section thereof and the support part are not attached to the elastic surface structure, some of the several second claws are attached to the elastic surface structure, and Others of the several second claws with a space defined between a lower end section thereof and the support part are not attached to the elastic surface structure. [12] Heat exchanger according to any one of claims 4 to 11, wherein the upper part comprises: a fifth side wall that touches an inner wall surface of the first side wall, a sixth side wall that touches an inner wall surface of the second side wall, and a second upper surface section connecting an upper end of the fifth side wall and an upper end of the sixth side wall, and the floor section is attached to the elastic surface structure. [13] Heat exchanger according to claim 12, wherein the first side wall extends in a vertical direction, perpendicular to an up-down direction and to a direction in which the first side wall and the second side wall face each other, and has several third claws at its upper end, each of the several third claws extending upwards from the upper end of the first side wall, the several third claws being arranged along the vertical direction, and the second side wall extends in the vertical direction and has several fourth claws at its upper end, each of the several fourth claws extending upwards from the upper end of the second side wall, the several fourth claws being arranged along the vertical direction. [14] Heat exchanger according to claim 13, wherein at least one of the several third claws extends along the fifth side wall and is then curved along the second upper surface section, and at least one of the several fourth claws extends along the sixth side wall and is then curved along the second upper surface section. [15] Heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the manifold is a circular or rectangular pipe. [16] Method for manufacturing a heat exchanger, wherein the method comprises: Arranging an elastic surface structure, which is elastically deformable in response to an impact exerted on a manifold or support element, between the support element and the manifold, which is coupled to the heat transfer lines for a flow of refrigerant between the manifold and heat transfer lines, in order to cause the elastic surface structure to deform elastically under the weight of the manifold and to cause the support element to support the manifold.

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