Heat exchanger

Abstract

The invention is a heat exchanger (1) comprising a longitudinal axis (X-X), a transverse axis (Y-Y) and a vertical axis (V-V), and comprising a working fluid inlet mouth (2110) and a working fluid outlet mouth (2120), and an exchange fluid inlet mouth (2210) and an exchange fluid outlet mouth (2220). The heat exchanger (1) comprises: - an upper end group (3) and a lower end group (5), wherein said mouths (2110, 2120, 2210, 2220) are obtained on said end groups (3, 5); - a plurality of intermediate plate-like groups (4), vertically stacked between the end groups (3, 5) delimiting a working fluid region (21) comprising planar working fluid segments (213) and an exchange fluid region (22) comprising planar exchange fluid segments (223). Said intermediate plate-like groups (4) comprise first plate-like units (41) and second plate-like units (42) comprising a pair of first plate-like elements (411, 412) and a pair of second plate-like elements (421, 422), respectively, each delimiting a planar working fluid segment (213). Furthermore, each first plate-like unit (41) comprises a plurality of first conduits (415) extending between the first plate-like elements (411, 412) and each second plate-like unit (42) comprises a plurality of second conduits (425) extending between the second plate-like elements (421, 422) through a planar working fluid segment (213).

Description

"HEAT EXCHANGER"DESCRIPTIONField of application

[0001] The present invention relates to a heat exchanger .

[0002] In particular, the present invention belongs to the automotive field.Background art

[0003] Heat exchanger solutions which find specific application in a vehicle, having the purpose of managing the temperature of a given fluid circulating in a system of a vehicle, are known from the prior art.

[0004] In further detail, the heat exchanger is suitable for performing a heat exchange operation between two fluids, i.e., between a working fluid and an exchange fluid .

[0005] Preferably, the exchange fluid is an oil, circulating in one or more operating groups of the vehicle, for example a gearbox group, a transmission group, an engine group, to manage the temperature thereof .

[0006] According to an alternative embodiment, the exchange fluid is a coolant fluid. By way of example, coolant fluid means one of the fluids normally used in a refrigeration cycle such as, for example, R134a, R544, R290, R518, R515, R1234yfa or R1234yf.

[0007] Preferably, the working fluid is a water-based liquid .

[0008] Managing the temperature of an operating group in the best possible manner improves the efficiency and lengthens the life cycle thereof, improving the performance and life cycle of the entire vehicle.

[0009] Therefore, it is increasingly desired to manage the temperature of each operating group in the best possible manner, by providing special components, such as the heat exchangers .

[0010] The refore, it is also increasingly desired to have highly effective heat exchangers, i.e., suitable for performing an efficient heat exchange between the working fluid and the exchange fluid.Solution of the invention

[0011] The need is thus strongly felt to provide a heat exchanger which meets said needs .

[0012] It is the object of the present invention to provide a heat exchanger which has an effective heat exchange .

[0013] Such an object is achieved by the heat exchanger claimed in claim 1. The claims dependent thereon show preferred variants resulting in further advantageous aspects.Description of the drawings

[0014] Further features and advantages of theinvention will become apparent from the following description of preferred exemplary embodiments thereof, given by way of non-limiting indication, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] - Figure 1 shows a perspective view with separate parts of a heat exchanger, in accordance with the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment ;

[0016] - Figure 2 shows a top view of the heat exchanger in Figure 1;

[0017] - Figures 3a and 3b show two sectional views of the heat exchanger according to the section planes A-A and B-B in Figure 2, respectively;

[0018] - Figures 3c and 3d show two sectional views of the heat exchanger according to the section planes C-C and D-D in Figure 3a, respectively;

[0019] - Figures 3e and 3f show two sectional views of the heat exchanger according to the section planes E-E and F-F in Figure 3d, respectively;

[0020] - Figures 3a' , 3b' , 3c' , 3d' , 3e' and 3f' show enlarged views of some portions of Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e and 3f, respectively;

[0021] - Figure 4 shows a perspective view with separate parts of a heat exchanger, in accordance with the present invention, according to a further preferred embodiment ;

[0022] - Figure 5 shows a top view of the heat exchanger in Figure 1;

[0023] - Figures 6a and 6b show two sectional views of the heat exchanger according to the section planes A-A and B-B in Figure 5, respectively;

[0024] - Figure 3c shows a sectional view of the heat exchanger according to the section plane C-C in Figure 6b;

[0025] - Figures 3d and 3e show two sectional views of the heat exchanger according to the section planes D-D and E-E in Figure 6c, respectively;

[0026] - Figures 6a' , 6b' , 6c' , 6d' and 6e' show enlarged views of some portions of Figures 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d and 6e, respectively.Detailed description

[0027] With reference to the accompanying drawings, reference numeral 1 indicates a heat exchanger of a thermal management system of a vehicle, in accordance with the present invention.

[0028] The heat exchanger 1 is suitable for performing a heat exchange action between a working fluid, preferably a water-based liquid or an oil or a dielectric fluid or a gas, and an exchange fluid, preferably a coolant fluid or a gas, each circulating in a respective circuit of the vehicle. Preferably, said refrigerant fluid is a fluid selected from R134a, R544, R290, R518,R515, R1234yfa, R1234yf or R744.

[0029] In fact, the heat exchanger 1 is connectable to the two circuits so that both the working fluid and the exchange fluid flow therein.

[0030] In accordance with the present invention, the heat exchanger 1 comprises a longitudinal axis X-X, a transverse axis Y-Y and a vertical axis V-V. The longitudinal axis X-X and the transverse axis Y-Y lie on the same imaginary plane orthogonally with respect to the vertical axis V-V.

[0031] It is emphasized that in the present discussion the position of the axes, and also the related definitions of the position of a component with respect to an axis (for example, "upper" or "lower") , are chosen as a convention with respect to the accompanying drawings and are not limiting, unless otherwise specified, with respect to the position of use of the heat exchanger 1 on board a vehicle.

[0032] In accordance with the present invention, the heat exchanger 1 comprises a working fluid inlet mouth 2110 and a working fluid outlet mouth 2120 through which the working fluid flows in and out.

[0033] Moreover, in accordance with the present invention, the heat exchanger 1 comprises an exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 and an exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220 through which the exchange fluid flows in and out.

[0034] The heat exchanger 1 comprises end groups 3, 5 and intermediate plate-like groups 4.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment, the end groups comprise an upper end group 3 and a lower end group 5.

[0036] Preferably, the upper end group 3 is of the plate-like type.

[0037] Preferably, the lower end group 5 is of the plate-like type.

[0038] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the heat exchanger 1 comprises an exchanger body in which the intermediate plate-like groups are housable, and in which said exchanger body comprises at least one end group. For example, the upper end plate-like group 3 and / or the lower upper end group 5 is comprised in a wall of the exchanger body. In other words, the upper end plate-like group 3 and / or the lower upper end group 5 is a wall of the exchanger body.

[0039] According to a preferred embodiment, the exchanger body is made of a material belonging to the family of polymer materials. Preferably, the upper end group 3 and / or the lower end group 5 comprised in the exchanger body is at least partially made of said material belonging to the family of polymer materials.

[0040] The heat exchanger 1 is obtained by joining said preferably plate-like components, mutually packedalong a preferential stacking direction.

[0041] In particular, the heat exchanger 1 extends in height with respect to the vertical axis V-V and longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal axis X-X and transversely with respect to the transverse axis Y-Y.

[0042] Preferably, the plate-like components are stacked along said vertical axis V-V, mutually parallel to each other. That is, the plate-like components extend longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal axis X-X and transversely with respect to the transverse axis Y-Y.

[0043] Preferably, the end groups 3, 5 are axially spaced apart along the vertical axis V-V. In accordance with a preferred embodiment, an end group 3 is referred to as being upper, while the other end group 5 is referred to as being lower.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment, the end group comprises a single plate-like element.

[0045] According to an alternative embodiment, at least one, or both, of the end groups comprise a plurality of, for example two or more, plate-like elements superimposed along the vertical axis V-V. For example, the upper end plate-like group 3 comprises three distinct upper plate-like elements 31.

[0046] In accordance with the present invention, the inlet mouths and the outlet mouths 2110, 2120, 2210, 2220 are obtained on said end groups 3, 5.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, all the mouths 2110,2120, 2210, 2220 are obtained on the upper end group 3.

[0048] In accordance with a further preferred embodiment, the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 is obtained on an end group, preferably on the upper end group 3, and the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220 is obtained on the opposite end group, preferably on the lower end group 5.

[0049] In accordance with the present invention, the intermediate plate-like groups 4 are specially shaped delimiting, in the stacking thereof between the upper end group 3 and the lower end group 5, a working fluid region 21, in which the working fluid flows, and an exchange fluid region 22, in which the exchange fluid flows.

[0050] The working fluid region 21 is in fluid communication with the working fluid inlet mouth 2110 and the working fluid outlet mouth 2120 and comprises planar working fluid segments 213.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment, the working fluid region 21 comprises vertical working fluid segments 211, 212, of inlet and outlet, respectively, in fluid communication with the working fluid inlet mouth 2110 and the working fluid outlet mouth 2120, as well as planar working fluid segments 213.

[0052] Preferably, the vertical working fluid segments 211, 212 are aligned, along the vertical axis V-V, to theworking fluid inlet mouth 2110 and to the working fluid outlet mouth 2120, respectively.

[0053] Preferably, the vertical working fluid segments 211, 212 are formed by aligning specific openings comprised on the plate-like groups.

[0054] Preferably, said planar working fluid segments 213 extend mutually parallel to each other.

[0055] The exchange fluid region 22 is in fluid communication with the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 and the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220 and comprises planar exchange fluid segments 223.

[0056] Preferably, said planar exchange fluid segments 223 extend mutually parallel to each other.

[0057] Said planar exchange fluid segments 223 are positioned to be alternating with the planar working fluid segments 213.

[0058] In accordance with the present invention, the intermediate plate-like groups 4 comprise first platelike units 41 and second plate-like units 42 comprising a pair of first plate-like elements 411, 412 and a pair of second plate-like elements 421, 422, respectively. Each pair delimits a planar working fluid segment 213.

[0059] The planar exchange fluid segments 223 are delimited between a first plate-like unit 41 and a second plate-like unit 42.

[0060] In other words, each plate-like unit is definedand delimited by the coupling of two plate-like elements.

[0061] In accordance with the present invention, each first plate-like unit 41 comprises a plurality of first conduits 415 extending in length between the first platelike elements 411, 412 through a planar working fluid segment 213.

[0062] In accordance with the present invention, each second plate-like unit 42 comprises a plurality of second conduits 425 extending in length between the second plate-like elements 421, 422 through a planar working fluid segment 213.

[0063] According to a preferred embodiment, said first conduits 415 and said second conduits 425 are calibrated passages through which the exchange fluid flows.

[0064] According to a preferred embodiment, the aforesaid first plate-like elements 411, 412 and second plate-like elements 421, 422, having features widely described below, are obtained by means of mechanical molding, cutting and / or bending operations carried out from a sheet of metal material, preferably if aluminum alloy .

[0065] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the first conduits 415 and the second conduits 425 are positioned to be mutually vertically misaligned.

[0066] Preferably, the exchange fluid is forced vertically in a non-linear path.

[0067] According to a preferred embodiment, a platelike element 411, 421 comprises a planar surface 4119, 4219 positioned in front of each conduit 415, 425 of the adjacent unit, so that the exchange fluid passing through a respective conduit 415, 425 flows towards, and hits against, said planar surface 4119, 4219. In other words, the exchange fluid flowing through a conduit of a platelike unit flows and hits against the planar surface comprised in the following plate-like unit. For example, the exchange fluid flowing in a first conduit 415 comprised in the first plate-like unit 41 hits against the planar surface 4219 comprised in the second platelike unit 42 arranged fluidly downstream with respect to the direction of circulation of the exchange fluid in the heat exchanger 1. Furthermore, the exchange fluid flowing in a second conduit 425 comprised in the second platelike unit 42 hits against the planar surface 4119 comprised in the first plate-like unit 41 arranged fluidly downstream with respect to the direction of circulation of the exchange fluid in the heat exchanger 1.

[0068] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, each plate-like element comprises a planar surface positioned in front of a conduit 415, 425.

[0069] According to a preferred embodiment, in front of each conduit 415, 425, the respective adjacent plate-like element, positioned downstream with respect to the direction of circulation of the exchange fluid, comprises a planar surface.

[0070] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, said planar surface 4119, 4219 is concave, preferably rounded.

[0071] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, said planar surface 4119, 4219 is convex.

[0072] According to a preferred embodiment, the first conduits 415 of a first plate-like unit 41 are positioned to be arranged transversely and longitudinally aligned.

[0073] In other words, the first conduits 415 are arranged on the nodes of a first imaginary grid.

[0074] According to a preferred embodiment, the second conduits 425 of a second plate-like unit 42 are positioned to be arranged transversely and longitudinally aligned .

[0075] In other words, the second conduits 425 are arranged on the nodes of a second imaginary grid.

[0076] Preferably, the first imaginary grid and the second imaginary grid are longitudinally and / or transversely offset.

[0077] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, said first conduits 415 have a diameter from 1 mm to 3 mm, preferably equal to about 1.5 mm.

[0078] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, said second conduits 425 have a diameter from 1 mm to 3 mm,preferably equal to about 1.5 mm.

[0079] By identifying a passage section for each conduit, the passage area is identified as the sum of all the passage sections of the conduits belonging to a plate-like unit.

[0080] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the passage area is such as to influence the motion of the exchange fluid, for example by modifying the flow rate and / or flow speed hereof.

[0081] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the passage area defined by the conduits proximal to the fluid connection with the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 is greater than the passage area defined by the conduits proximal to the fluid connection with the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220.

[0082] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the passage area defined by the conduits proximal to the fluid connection with the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 is lesser than the passage area defined by the conduits proximal to the fluid connection with the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220.

[0083] According to a preferred embodiment, the first conduits 415 of a first plate-like unit 41 differ in shape from the first conduits 415 of a further first plate-like unit 41.

[0084] According to a preferred embodiment, the firstconduits 415 of a first plate-like unit 41 differ in number from the first conduits 415 of a further first plate-like unit 41.

[0085] According to a preferred embodiment, the first conduits 415 of a first plate-like unit 41 differ in positioning from the first conduits 415 of a further first plate-like unit 41.

[0086] According to a preferred embodiment, the second conduits 425 of a second plate-like unit 42 differ in shape from the second conduits 425 of a further second plate-like unit 42.

[0087] According to a preferred embodiment, the second conduits 425 of a second plate-like unit 42 differ in number from the second conduits 425 of a further second plate-like unit 42.

[0088] According to a preferred embodiment, the second conduits 425 of a second plate-like unit 42 differ in positioning from the second conduits 425 of a further second plate-like unit 42.

[0089] According to a preferred embodiment, the first conduits 415 of a first plate-like unit 41 differ in shape and / or number and / or positioning from the second conduits 425 of a second plate-like unit 42.

[0090] According to a preferred embodiment, the first conduits 415 comprise a first inlet mouth 415' and a first outlet mouth 415' ' , respectively.

[0091] Preferably, said first outlet mouth 415' ' has a passage section which is equal to or smaller than the first inlet mouth 415' .

[0092] Preferably, said first inlet mouth 415' has a circular or oval shape.

[0093] Preferably, said first outlet mouth 415' ' has a circular or oval shape.

[0094] Preferably, the first inlet mouth 415' and the first outlet mouth 415' ’ are axially spaced apart.

[0095] Preferably, the first inlet mouth 415' and the first outlet mouth 415' ’ are mutually superimposed in the axial direction along the axis V-V.

[0096] Preferably, the first inlet mouth 415' is identified as the inlet port of the exchange fluid into the first conduit 415. Preferably, the first outlet mouth 415' ’ is identified as the outlet port of the exchange fluid from the first conduit 415.

[0097] In a preferred embodiment, the first inlet mouth 415' and / or the first outlet mouth 415' ’ , respectively, lies on the imaginary plane of a respective plate-like element.

[0098] Preferably, the first inlet mouth 415' lies on the imaginary plane with respect to which the first upper plate-like element 411 extends. Preferably, the first inlet mouth 415' is comprised in the first upper platelike element 411.

[0099] Preferably, the first outlet mouth 415' ' lies on the imaginary plane with respect to which the first lower plate-like element 412 extends. Preferably, the first outlet mouth 415' ' is comprised in the first lower plate-like element 412.[000100] According to a preferred embodiment, the second conduits 425 comprise a second inlet mouth 425' and a second outlet mouth 425' ' , respectively.[000101] Preferably, said second outlet mouth 425' ’ has a passage section which is equal to or smaller than the second inlet mouth 425' .[000102] Preferably, said second inlet mouth 425' has a circular or oval shape.[000103] Preferably, said second outlet mouth 425' ’ has a circular or oval shape.[000104] Preferably, the second inlet mouth 425' and the second outlet mouth 425' ’ are axially spaced apart.[000105] Preferably, the second inlet mouth 425' and the second outlet mouth 425' ’ are mutually superimposed in the axial direction along the axis V-V.[000106] Preferably, the second inlet mouth 425' is identified as the inlet port of the exchange fluid into the second conduit 425. Preferably, the second outlet mouth 425' ’ is identified as the outlet port of the exchange fluid from the second conduit 425.[000107] In a preferred embodiment, the second inletmouth 425' and / or the second outlet mouth 425' ' , respectively, lies on the imaginary plane of a respective plate-like element.[000108] Preferably, the second inlet mouth 425' lies on the imaginary plane with respect to which the second upper plate-like element 421 extends. Preferably, the second inlet mouth 425' is comprised in the second upper plate-like element 421.[000109] Preferably, the second outlet mouth 425' ’ lies on the imaginary plane with respect to which the second lower plate-like element 422 extends. Preferably, the second outlet mouth 425' ’ is comprised in the second lower plate-like element 422.[000110] Preferably, the diameter of the inlet mouths 415' and of the outlet mouths 415' ’ is from 1 millimeters to 3 millimeters, preferably equal to about 1.5 mm.[000111] Preferably, the diameter of the inlet mouths 425' and of the outlet mouths 425' ’ is from 1 millimeter to 3 millimeters, preferably equal to about 1.5 millimeters .[000112] In accordance with the above, the passage section of the conduit corresponds to the average of the passage section measured at the inlet mouth and of the passage section measured at the outlet mouth.[000113] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, said first inlet mouth 415' and / or said second inlet mouth425' have a rounded edge.[000114] According to a preferred embodiment, the first plate-like unit 41 comprises protruding projections 4120 suitable for supportingly engaging the adjacent second plate-like unit 42, respectively.[000115] According to a preferred embodiment, the second plate-like unit 42 comprises protruding projections 4220 suitable for supportingly engaging the adjacent first plate-like unit 41, respectively.[000116] According to a preferred embodiment, the first plate-like unit 41 comprises internal protruding projections 4110 comprised in the first plate-like element 411 suitable for supportingly engaging the second plate-like element 412 comprised in the same plate-like unit, respectively.[000117] According to a preferred embodiment, the second plate-like unit 42 comprises internal protruding projections 4210 comprised in the first plate-like element 421 suitable for supportingly engaging the second plate-like element 422 comprised in the same plate-like unit, respectively.[000118] According to a preferred embodiment, the planar exchange fluid segments 223 have a different height with respect to the planar working fluid segments 213.[000119] According to a preferred embodiment, the planar exchange fluid segments 223 have a greater height thanthe planar working fluid segments 213.[000120] According to a preferred embodiment, the planar working fluid segments 213 have a height substantially equal to that of the planar exchange fluid segments 223. [000121] According to a preferred embodiment, the planar working fluid segments 213 have a height between 0.5 millimeters and 3 millimeters.[000122] According to a preferred embodiment, the planar exchange fluid segments 223 have a height between 0.5 millimeters and 3 millimeters.[000123] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the heat exchanger 1 further comprises turbulator elements housed in the planar working fluid segments 213 and / or the planar exchange fluid segments 223, respectively.[000124] Preferably, said turbulator element has the purpose of increasing the exchange surface available for the heat exchange, increasing the turbulence of the working fluid. Furthermore, preferably, the turbulator element increases the structural resistance of the heat exchanger and for this reason it lends itself to being installed on the higher pressure circuit, conventionally in the planar exchange fluid segments 223.[000125] According to a preferred embodiment, the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 is obtained on the upper end group 3.[000126] According to a preferred embodiment, theexchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 is obtained on the lower end group 5 . In accordance with a preferred embodiment , the upper end group 3 or the lower end group 5 comprises at least one inlet channel 30 which longitudinally and / or transversely extends from the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 .[ 000127 ] Preferably, the upper end group 3 or the lower end group 5 comprises a plurality of inlet channels 30 , preferably angularly spaced apart , from the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 .[ 000128 ] Preferably, the upper end group 3 comprises a plurality of upper plate-like elements 31 which, in the mutual stacking thereof in the vertical direction, are shaped to form the inlet channel 30 .[ 000129 ] Preferably, said inlet channel 30 , preferably said plurality of inlet channels 30 , have at least for one segment a greater height than the height of the planar exchange fluid segments 223 . In accordance with a preferred embodiment , the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220 is obtained on the lower end group 5 .[ 000130 ] Preferably, said inlet channel 30 , preferably said plurality of inlet channels 30 , have at least for one segment a greater height than the height of the planar exchange fluid segments 223 .[ 000131 ] In accordance with a preferred embodiment , said inlet channel 30 , preferably said plurality of inletchannels 30, have, at least for one segment, a greater height than the height of a planar exchange fluid segment .[000132] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, said inlet channel 30, preferably said plurality of inlet channels 30, have, at least for one segment, a greater height than the height of the first planar exchange fluid segment 223 which it intercepts.[000133] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, said inlet channel 30, preferably said plurality of inlet channels 30, have, at least for one segment, a greater height than the height of the first planar exchange fluid segment 223 that intercepts, that is with respect to the height of the first planar exchange fluid segment 223 arranged fluidly downstream along the flow direction of the exchange fluid.[000134] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220 is obtained on the upper end group 3.[000135] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the lower end group 5 or the upper end group 3 comprises at least one outlet channel which longitudinally and / or transversely extends from the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220.[000136] Preferably, the lower end group 5 or the upper end group 3 comprises a plurality of outlet channels,preferably angularly spaced apart, from the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220.[000137] Preferably, the lower end group 5 comprises a plurality of lower plate-like elements 51 which, in the mutual stacking thereof in the vertical direction, are shaped to form the outlet channel.[000138] Preferably, said outlet channel, preferably said plurality of outlet channels, have at least for one segment a greater height than the height of the planar exchange fluid segments 223.[000139] Preferably, said outlet channel, preferably said plurality of outlet channels, have, at least for one segment, a greater height than the height of a planar exchange fluid segment.[000140] Preferably, said outlet channel, preferably said plurality of outlet channels, have, at least for one segment, a greater height than the height of a planar exchange fluid segment 223 arranged fluidly downstream along the flow direction of the exchange fluid.[000141] Preferably, both the inlet channel 30 and the outlet channel have a greater height than the planar exchange fluid segments 223.[000142] Depending on the mutual positioning of the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 and the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220, the upper end group 3 and / or the lower end group 5 have special channels suitable for favoringthe inlet and the outlet , respectively, of the exchange fluid in the respective plate-like planar segment facing the respective end group .[ 000143 ] In accordance with a preferred embodiment , the exchange fluid outlet mouth is obtained on the same end group on which the exchange fluid inlet mouth is obtained, in which the heat exchanger comprises an outflow exchange fluid segment fluidly connected to said exchange fluid outlet mouth comprising an outflow exchange fluid segment inlet positioned to be distal from the exchange fluid outlet mouth .[ 000144 ] Preferably, said outflow exchange fluid segment is made by means of a tubular element passing between the intermediate plate-like groups to fluidly connect the exchange fluid outlet mouth to the outflow exchange fluid segment inlet .[ 000145 ] In accordance with a preferred embodiment , the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220 is obtained on the same end group on which the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 is obtained, in which the intermediate plate-like groups 4 delimit an outflow exchange fluid segment 222 fluidly connected to said exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220 comprising an outflow exchange fluid segment inlet 222 ' positioned to be distal from the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220 .[ 000146 ] In accordance with a preferred embodiment , thelower end group 5 comprises at least one outlet mani fold and / or one outlet channel , longitudinally and / or transversely extending up to the fluid connection with the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220 (whether this is comprised in the lower end group 3 or in the upper end group 5 ) .[ 000147 ] According to an alternative embodiment , the exchange fluid inlet mouth is obtained on the same end group on which the exchange fluid outlet mouth is obtained, in which the heat exchanger comprises an inflow exchange fluid segment fluidly connected to said exchange fluid inlet mouth comprising an inflow exchange fluid segment outlet positioned to be distal from the exchange fluid inlet mouth .[ 000148 ] Preferably, said inflow exchange fluid segment is made by means of a tubular element passing between the intermediate plate-like groups to fluidly connect the exchange fluid inlet mouth to the inflow exchange fluid segment outlet .[ 000149 ] According to an alternative embodiment , the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 is obtained on the same end group on which the exchange fluid outlet mouth 2220 is obtained, wherein the intermediate plate-like groups 4 delimit an inflow exchange fluid segment fluidly connected to said exchange fluid inlet mouth 2210 comprising an inflow exchange fluid segment outletpositioned to be distal from the exchange fluid inlet mouth 2220.[000150] In particular, in accordance with a preferred embodiment, said vertical connection segments are obtained by coupling respective protruding collars obtained on each intermediate plate-like element.[000151] According to a preferred embodiment, the heat exchanger 1 is a liquid-cooled condenser and the exchange fluid undergoes a phase transition by condensation due to the sequential crossing of the planar exchange fluid segments 223.[000152] According to a further preferred embodiment, the heat exchanger 1 is an evaporator and the exchange fluid undergoes a phase transition by evaporation due to the sequential crossing of the planar exchange fluid segments 223.[000153] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the shape, arrangement and number of the conduits depends on the type of phase transition undergone by the exchange fluid .[000154] According to a preferred embodiment, the intermediate plate-like groups 4 are mutually joined by means of a brazing operation, preferably in a vacuum furnace .[000155] According to a preferred embodiment, the end groups 3, 5 and the intermediate plate-like groups 4 aremutually j oined by means of a brazing operation, preferably in a vacuum furnace .[ 000156 ] In accordance with a preferred embodiment , the heat exchanger 1 comprises at least one connection member 8 operatively connected to at least one end group 3 , 5 at at least one fluid inlet or outlet mouth .[ 000157 ] In accordance with a preferred embodiment , a planar inlet exchange fluid segment is identi fied as the first planar segment in which the exchange fluid flows .[ 000158 ] In accordance with a preferred embodiment , a planar outlet exchange fluid segment is identi fied as the last planar segment in which the exchange fluid flows .[ 000159 ] Preferably, the axial distance measured along the axis V-V between the working fluid outlet mouth 2120 and said planar inlet exchange fluid segment is shorter than the distance measured in the same direction between the working fluid outlet mouth 2120 and said planar outlet segment , in the embodiment in which the heat exchanger 1 is of the type suitable for carrying out a phase transition by condensation . Advantageously, said configuration takes advantage of the heat exchange between the exchange fluid entering in the heat exchanger and the working fluid exiting from the heat exchanger, in a region in which both fluids flow at the respective maximum flow rate thereof , to increase the thermal power of the exchanger in the condenser configuration .[ 000160 ] Preferably, the axial distance measured along the axis V-V between the working fluid outlet mouth 2120 and said planar inlet exchange fluid segment is longer than the distance measured in the same direction between the working fluid outlet mouth 2120 and said planar outlet exchange segment , in the embodiment in which the heat exchanger 1 is of the type suitable for carrying out a phase transition by evaporation . Advantageously, said configuration takes advantage of the heat exchange between the exchange fluid entering in the heat exchanger and the working fluid exiting from the heat exchanger, in a region in which both fluids flow at the respective maximum flow rate thereof , to increase the thermal power of the exchanger in the evaporator configuration .[ 000161 ] Innovatively, the heat exchanger largely achieves the purpose of the present invention, overcoming issues which are typical of the prior art .[ 000162 ] Advantageously, in fact , the heat exchanger has fluid passages suitable for making the heat exchange particularly ef ficient . Advantageously, in fact , the heat exchanger has intermediate plate-like groups suitable for making the heat exchange particularly ef ficient .[ 000163 ] Advantageously, in the heat exchanger, the management of the heat exchange is made more ef ficient by the intermediate plate-like groups which fluidly connect the planar exchange fluid segments in cascade .[ 000164 ] Advantageously, the increase in ef ficiency of the heat exchange allows reducing the number of planar segments required to achieve a certain thermal power, thus allowing the weight of the exchanger and the associated cost to be reduced .[ 000165 ] Advantageously, the connection in cascade of the planar exchange segments allows flexibly managing the positioning of the inlet and outlet mouths of the exchange fluid, thus of fering a solution which is easily adaptable to di f ferent system layouts .[ 000166 ] Advantageously, the connection in cascade of the planar exchange segments allows flexibly managing the positioning of the inlet and outlet mouths of the exchange fluid, without the geometric constraints imposed by the presence of vertical exchange fluid circulation segments found on traditional plate heat exchangers .[ 000167 ] Advantageously, in the case of a heat exchanger suitable for acting as an evaporator, said flexibility facilitates the integration of functional components with the exchanger such as a lamination member, for example an expansion valve .[ 000168 ] Advantageously, depending on the type of heat exchanger, the planar inlet exchange fluid segment is positionable to be proximal or distal to / from the end group on which the working fluid outlet mouth i s placed .[ 000169 ] Advantageously, the intermediate plate-likegroups are shaped to have a homogeneous and ef ficient heat exchange .[ 000170 ] Advantageously, the intermediate plate-like groups are shaped to adj ust the flow rate and / or the speed of the exchange fluid passing through the conduits thereof .[ 000171 ] Advantageously, the fluid path inside the heat exchanger can be designed by defining the positioning and / or number and / or shape of the conduits .[ 000172 ] Advantageously, the heat exchanger defines a tortuous and labyrinth path for the working fluid, but above all for the exchange fluid .[ 000173 ] Advantageously, the heat exchanger manages the transit time of the exchange fluid inside it also depending on a phase transition thereof .[ 000174 ] Advantageously, the exchange fluid region is obtained by providing the end groups fluidly connected in series to the intermediate groups .[ 000175 ] Advantageously, the heat exchanger has an optimi zed pressure drop both on the exchange fluid circuit and on the working fluid circuit .[ 000176 ] Advantageously, the exchange fluid passes through the respective conduits and hits against a planar surface , favoring and increasing the heat exchange on said surface and with the working fluid circulating on the opposite side of said surface .[ 000177 ] Advantageously, the exchange fluid passes through the respective conduits extending through a planar working fluid segment , also carrying out a heat exchange with the walls which define the conduit .[ 000178 ] Advantageously, the height of the planar working segments is greater than the height of the planar exchange segments . Such a ratio allows reducing the pressure drop on the working fluid circuit while taking advantage of a positive contribution to the heat exchange due to the radiant effect given by the heat exchange of the working fluid with the side walls of the conduits suitable for circulating the exchange fluid and extending across a planar working segment .[ 000179 ] Advantageously, the presence of an inlet channel ensures a low pressure drop of the inlet exchange fluid . Advantageously, the presence of an outlet mani fold ensures a low pressure drop of the outlet exchange fluid . [ 000180 ] Advantageously, the presence of an inlet channel and of an outlet channel with a height greater than the planar exchange segments allows adequately managing the pressure drop of the exchange fluid circulating in the heat exchanger .[ 000181 ] Advantageously, the plate-like elements comprised in the heat exchanger are assemblable with a reliable assembly sequence suitable for ensuring the correct positioning and the mutual connection of thecomponents comprised in the exchanger by brazing.[000182] Advantageously, the heat exchanger can be obtained by mutually stacking two types of plates comprising respective openings and planar surfaces. [000183] Advantageously, the heat exchanger has high solidity, resistance and rigidity.[000184] Advantageously, the heat exchanger has improved manufacturing and assembly, thus having a lower cost. [000185] Advantageously, the heat exchanger is a single component .[000186] Advantageously, the connection conduits comprised in the plate-like units are obtained in one piece with the plate-like elements which form the units, for example it is shaped with a plate-like element, for example by drawing, defining the side walls of the conduits .[000187] It is apparent that, in order to meet contingent needs, those skilled in the art may make changes to the above-described heat exchanger, all contained within the scope of protection as defined by the following claims.List of reference signs:[000188]1 heat exchanger21 working fluid region211 vertical working fluid (inlet) segment212 vertical working fluid ( outlet ) segment213 planar working fluid segments2110 working fluid inlet mouth2120 working fluid outlet mouth22 exchange fluid region222 outflow exchange fluid segment222 ' outflow exchange fluid segment inlet223 planar exchange fluid segments2210 exchange fluid inlet mouth2220 exchange fluid outlet mouth3 upper end group30 inlet channel31 upper plate-like elements4 intermediate plate-like element41 first plate-like unit411 first (upper ) plate-like element4110 first internal proj ection4119 first planar surface412 first ( lower ) plate-like element4120 first protruding proj ection415 first conduit415 ' first inlet mouth415 ' ’ first outlet mouth42 second plate-like units421 second (upper ) plate-like element4210 second internal proj ection4219 second planar surface422 second ( lower ) plate-like element4220 second protruding proj ection425 second conduit 425 ' second inlet mouth425 ' ’ second outlet mouth5 lower end group8 connection memberX-X longitudinal axis Y-Y transverse axisV-V vertical axis

Claims

CLAIMS1. A heat exchanger (1) comprising a longitudinal axis (X-X) , a transverse axis (Y-Y) and a vertical axis (V-V) , and comprising a working fluid inlet mouth (2110) and a working fluid outlet mouth (2120) , and an exchange fluid inlet mouth (2210) and an exchange fluid outlet mouth (2220) , wherein the heat exchanger (1) comprises: an upper end group (3) and a lower end group (5) , wherein said mouths (2110, 2120, 2210, 2220) are obtained on said end groups (3, 5) ; a plurality of intermediate plate-like groups (4) , vertically stacked between the end groups (3, 5) delimiting a working fluid region (21) in fluid communication with the working fluid inlet mouth (2110) and the working fluid outlet mouth (2120) , and comprising planar working fluid segments (213) and an exchange fluid region (22) in fluid communication with the exchange fluid inlet mouth (2210) and the exchange fluid outlet mouth (2220) comprising planar exchange fluid segments (223) ; wherein the intermediate plate-like groups (4) comprise first plate-like units (41) and second plate-like units (42) comprising a pair of first plate-like elements (411, 412) and a pair of second plate-like elements (421, 422) , respectively, each delimiting a planar working fluid segment (213) ;wherein each first plate-like unit (41) comprises a plurality of first conduits (415) extending between the first plate-like elements (411, 412) through a planar working fluid segment (213) ; wherein each second plate-like unit (42) comprises a plurality of second conduits (425) extending between the second plate-like elements (421, 422) through a planar working fluid segment (213) .

2. A heat exchanger (1) according to claim 1, wherein the first conduits (415) and the second conduits (425) are positioned mutually vertically misaligned.

3. A heat exchanger (1) according to claim 2, wherein a plate-like element (411, 421) comprises a planar surface (4119, 4219) positioned in front of a conduit (415, 425) of the adjacent unit, so that the exchange fluid passing through a respective conduit (415, 425) flows towards, and hits against, said planar surface (4119, 4219) .

4. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first conduits (415) of a first plate-like unit (41) are positioned to be arranged transversely and longitudinally aligned; and / or wherein the second conduits (425) of a second plate-like unit (42) are positioned to be arranged transversely and longitudinally aligned.

5. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the passage area defined by theconduits proximal to the fluid connection with the exchange fluid inlet mouth (2210) is smaller than the passage area defined by the conduits proximal to the fluid connection with the exchange fluid outlet mouth (2220) .

6. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the passage area defined by the conduits proximal to the fluid connection with the exchange fluid inlet mouth (2210) is greater than the passage area defined by the conduits proximal to the fluid connection with the exchange fluid outlet mouth (2220) .

7. A heat exchanger (1) according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the first conduits (415) of a first plate-like unit (41) differ in shape and / or number and / or positioning from the first conduits ( 415) of a further first plate-like unit (41) .

8. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the second conduits (425) of a second plate-like unit (42) differ in shape and / or number and / or positioning from the second conduits (425) of a further second plate-like unit (42) .

9. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: first conduits (415) comprising a first inlet mouth ( 415 ’ ) and a first outlet mouth ( 415 ’ ’ ) , respectively,wherein said first outlet mouth ( 415 ' ' ) has a passage section equal to or smaller than the first inlet mouth (415' ) ; and / or- second conduits (425) comprising a second inlet mouth (425' ) and a second outlet mouth (425' ' ) , respectively, wherein said second outlet mouth (425' ' ) has a passage section equal to or smaller than the second inlet mouth (425' ) .

10. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first plate-like unit (41) and / or the second plate-like unit (42) comprise protruding projections (4120, 4220) , respectively, suitable for engaging in support the adjacent plate unit (41, 42) .

11. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the height of the planar exchange fluid segments (223) is less than the height of the planar working fluid segments (213) .

12. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper end group (3) is of the plate-like type, for example comprising a plurality of vertically stacked plate-like elements, and / or wherein the lower end group (5) is of the plate-like type, for example comprising a plurality of vertically stacked plate-like elements.

13. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the exchange fluid inlet mouth (2210) is obtained on an end group, preferably on the upper end group (3) , wherein said end group comprises at least one inlet channel (30) , preferably a plurality of inlet channels, longitudinally and / or transversely extending from the exchange fluid inlet mouth (2210) .

14. A heat exchanger (1) according to claim 13, wherein said inlet channel (30) , preferably said plurality of inlet channels, has a greater height than the height of the first planar exchange fluid segment (2210) which it intersects .

15. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the exchange fluid outlet mouth (2220) is obtained on an end group, preferably on the lower end group (5) , wherein said end group comprises at least one outlet channel, preferably a plurality of outlet channels, longitudinally and / or transversally extending with respect to the fluid connection with the exchange fluid outlet mouth (2220) .

16. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the exchange fluid outlet mouth (2220) is obtained on the end group opposite to that on which the exchange fluid inlet mouth (2210) is obtained; or wherein the exchange fluid outlet mouth (2220) isobtained on the same end group on which the exchange fluid inlet mouth (2210) is obtained, wherein the intermediate plate-like groups (4) delimit an outflow exchange fluid segment (222) fluidically connected to said exchange fluid outlet mouth (2220) comprising an exchange fluid segment inlet (222' ) distal from the exchange fluid outlet mouth (2220) .

17. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the exchange fluid inlet mouth (2210) is obtained on the end group opposite to that on which the exchange fluid outlet mouth (2220) is obtained; or wherein the exchange fluid inlet mouth (2210) is obtained on the same end group on which the exchange fluid outlet mouth (2220) is obtained, wherein the intermediate platelike groups (4) delimit an inflow exchange fluid segment fluidically connected to said exchange fluid inlet mouth (2210) comprising an inflow exchange fluid segment outlet positioned distal from the exchange fluid inlet mouth (2220) .

18. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 6 to 17, wherein the heat exchanger (1) is a liquid-cooled condenser and the exchange fluid undergoes a phase transition by condensation due to the crossing of the sequential planar exchange fluid segments (223) .

19. A heat exchanger (1) according to any one of claims 1to 5 and 7 to 17, wherein the heat exchanger (1) is an evaporator, and the exchange fluid undergoes a phase transition by evaporation due to the crossing of the sequential planar exchange fluid segments (223) .

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