Fluid treatment device

Abstract

To provide a fluid treatment device capable of suppressing deterioration of treatment efficiency.SOLUTION: A fluid treatment device 1 includes: a flow passage structure 2 partitioned by a partition wall 4 along a triple cycle minimal curved surface and having a first flow passage 5 in which first fluid Fa flows and a second flow passage 6 in which second fluid Fb flows; and a shell 3 covering the flow passage structure 2. The flow passage structure 2 includes: a body part 7 having a first end part 7A and a second end part 7B; a first straightening part 8 disposed in the first end part 7A and narrowed as separating from the body part 7; and a second straightening part 9 disposed in the second end part 7B and narrowed as separating from the body part 7. An inflow port 51 of the first flow passage 5 is provided on the surface of the first straightening part 8. An outflow port 52 of the first flow passage 5 is provided on the surface of the second straightening part 9. An inflow port 61 of the second flow passage 6 is provided on the surface of the second straightening part 9. An outflow port 62 of the second flow passage 6 is provided on the surface of the first straightening part 8.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a fluid processor.

Background Art

[0002] In the technical field related to fluid processors, heat exchangers having a triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) structure, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, are known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In a fluid processor including a flow path structure of a triply periodic minimal surface, if the fluid supplied to the flow path structure does not spread throughout the flow path structure, the processing efficiency may decrease.

[0005] The technology disclosed in this specification aims to provide a fluid processor capable of suppressing a decrease in processing efficiency.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] This specification discloses a fluid processor. The fluid processor includes a flow path structure having a first flow path through which a first fluid flows and a second flow path through which a second fluid flows, separated by a partition along a triply periodic minimal surface, and a shell covering the flow path structure. The flow path structure has a main body portion having a first end portion and a second end portion, a first rectifying portion disposed at the first end portion and becoming thinner as it moves away from the main body portion, and a second rectifying portion disposed at the second end portion and becoming thinner as it moves away from the main body portion. An inlet of the first flow path is provided on the surface of the first rectifying portion. An outlet of the first flow path is provided on the surface of the second rectifying portion. An inlet of the second flow path is provided on the surface of the second rectifying portion. An outlet of the second flow path is provided on the surface of the first rectifying portion.

Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the technology disclosed in this specification, a fluid processor capable of suppressing a decrease in processing efficiency is provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments, a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system is set, and the positional relationship of each part will be described with reference to the three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system. The direction parallel to the X-axis in the horizontal plane is defined as the X-axis direction. The direction parallel to the Y-axis orthogonal to the X-axis in the horizontal plane is defined as the Y-axis direction. The direction parallel to the Z-axis orthogonal to each of the X-axis and the Y-axis is defined as the Z-axis direction.

[0010] [First Embodiment] The first embodiment will be described.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the fluid processor 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the fluid processor 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a front view showing the fluid processor 1 according to the present embodiment. The fluid processor 1 processes a fluid. In the present embodiment, the fluid processor 1 is a heat exchanger. The fluid processor 1 exchanges heat between the first fluid Fa and the second fluid Fb. As shown in FIG. 1, the fluid processor 1 includes a flow path structure 2 and a shell 3.

[0012] The shell 3 is arranged to cover the flow path structure 2. The shell 3 has a cylindrical portion 30, a first wall portion 31, and a second wall portion 32. The cylindrical portion 30 is long in the X-axis direction. In the present embodiment, the cylindrical portion 30 is cylindrical. The central axis of the cylindrical portion 30 is parallel to the X-axis.

[0013] The first wall portion 31 is arranged to cover the end portion of the cylindrical portion 30 on the +X direction side. The second wall portion 32 is arranged to cover the end portion of the cylindrical portion 30 on the -X direction side. The first header 33 is defined by the first wall portion 31 and a part of the cylindrical portion 30 on the +X direction side. The second header 34 is defined by the second wall portion 32 and a part of the cylindrical portion 30 on the -X direction side.

[0014] The shell 3 has a first supply port 35, a first discharge port 36, a second supply port 37, and a second discharge port 38. The first supply port 35 is connected to the first wall portion 31. The first discharge port 36 is connected to the second wall portion 32. The second supply port 37 is connected to the second header 34. The second discharge port 38 is connected to the first header 33. The first fluid Fa is supplied into the interior of the flow path structure 2 through the first supply port 35. The first fluid Fa after flowing through the flow path structure 2 is discharged to the outside through the first discharge port 36. The second fluid Fb is supplied to the inside of the shell 3 through the second supply port 37. The second fluid Fb inside the shell 3 is discharged to the outside of the shell 3 through the second discharge port 38 after flowing through the flow path structure 2.

[0015] The first supply port 35 protrudes from the first wall portion 31 toward the +X direction side. The first supply port 35 is cylindrical. The central axis of the first supply port 35 is parallel to the X axis. The central axis of the first supply port 35 coincides with the central axis of the cylindrical portion 30.

[0016] The first discharge port 36 protrudes from the second wall portion 32 toward the -X direction side. The first discharge port 36 is cylindrical. The central axis of the first discharge port 36 is parallel to the X axis. The central axis of the first discharge port 36 coincides with the central axis of the cylindrical portion 30.

[0017] The second supply port 37 protrudes in the +Z direction from a part of the -X direction side of the cylindrical portion 30. The second supply port 37 is cylindrical. The central axis of the second supply port 37 is parallel to the Z axis. The second supply port 37 is arranged on the -Y direction side of the central axis of the cylindrical portion 30.

[0018] The second discharge port 38 protrudes in the +Z direction from a part of the +X direction side of the cylindrical portion 30. The second discharge port 38 is cylindrical. The central axis of the second discharge port 38 is parallel to the Z axis. The second discharge port 38 is arranged on the +Y direction side of the central axis of the cylindrical portion 30.

[0019] FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view showing an enlarged part of the flow path structure 2 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an enlarged part of the flow path structure 2 according to the present embodiment.

[0020] The flow path structure 2 has a first flow path 5 through which a first fluid Fa flows and a second flow path 6 through which a second fluid Fb flows. The flow path structure 2 has a partition wall 4 that separates the first flow path 5 and the second flow path 6. The first fluid Fa flowing through the first flow path 5 and the second fluid Fb flowing through the second flow path 6 exchange heat through the partition wall 4.

[0021] The partition wall 4 is formed along a triply periodic minimal surface. The triply periodic minimal surface refers to a surface that has the minimum area among the surfaces having a closed curve given in a three-dimensional space as a boundary. Examples of the triply periodic minimal surface include the gyroid surface (G surface) of Schoen, Schwarz's D surface, or the I-WP surface of Schoen. In the present embodiment, the partition wall 4 is formed along the gyroid surface.

[0022] The gyroid surface can be infinitely connected in three different directions and is a minimal surface that divides the space into two regions. In the present embodiment, the gyroid surface can be infinitely connected in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction, respectively.

[0023] The gyroid surface is a surface that has the minimum area under given boundary conditions and has a curvature of zero when integrated. The gyroid surface is represented by an approximate formula using the trigonometric functions shown in the following equation (1).

[0024] sin(X × P1) × cos(Y × P2) + sin(Y × P2) × cos(Z × P3) + sin(Z × P3) × cos(X × P1) = 0 …(1)

[0025] (1) In the formula, X, Y, and Z are real numbers from -n to +n. P1, P2, and P3 are real numbers greater than 0. As shown in the formula (1), the gyroloid surface has a structure that is infinitely connected in each of the X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, and Z-axis direction. When each of P1, P2, and P3 is 1, the one-period in the X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, and Z-axis direction is 2n, respectively. When each of P2 and P3 is 1 and P1 is 2, the one-period in the X-axis direction is n, and it is half of the one-period in the Y-axis direction and Z-axis direction.

[0026] The partition wall 4 is a wall centered on a virtual surface represented by the formula (1) and having a substantially uniform thickness in the normal direction of the surface. In the flow path structure 2, the total area of the inner surface (heat transfer surface) of the first flow path 5 and the total area of the inner surface (heat transfer surface) of the second flow path 6 are substantially equal.

[0027] The inlet 51 of the first flow path 5 is constituted by the first opening end of the first flow path 5. The outlet 52 of the first flow path 5 is constituted by the second opening end of the first flow path 5. The inlet 61 of the second flow path 6 is constituted by the first opening end of the second flow path 6. The outlet 62 of the second flow path 6 is constituted by the second opening end of the second flow path 6.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 1, the flow path structure 2 has a main body portion 7, a first rectifying portion 8, and a second rectifying portion 9.

[0029] The main body portion 7 is long in the X-axis direction. The outer shape of the main body portion 7 is substantially cylindrical. The central axis of the main body portion 7 is parallel to the X-axis. The outer peripheral surface of the main body portion 7 contacts the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 30. The main body portion 7 has a first end portion 7A on the +X direction side and a second end portion 7B on the -X direction side.

[0030] The first rectifying portion 8 is disposed at the first end portion 7A of the main body portion 7. The outer shape of the first rectifying portion 8 becomes thinner as it moves away from the main body portion 7. The outer shape of the first rectifying portion 8 gradually becomes thinner toward the +X direction side. The outer shape of the first rectifying portion 8 is frustum-shaped. In the present embodiment, the outer shape of the first rectifying portion 8 is frustum-conical. The central axis of the first rectifying portion 8 is parallel to the X-axis.

[0031] The second rectifying section 9 is disposed at the second end portion 7B of the main body section 7. The outer shape of the second rectifying section 9 becomes thinner as it moves away from the main body section 7. The outer shape of the second rectifying section 9 gradually becomes thinner toward the -X direction side. The outer shape of the second rectifying section 9 is frustum-shaped. In the present embodiment, the outer shape of the second rectifying section 9 is frustum of a cone-shaped. The central axis of the second rectifying section 9 is parallel to the X-axis.

[0032] The thickness of the first end portion 7A is equal to the thickness of the second end portion 7B. The thickness of the main body section 7 is substantially constant in the X-axis direction. The thickness of the first end portion 7A of the main body section 7 is equal to the thickness of the end portion on the -X direction side of the first rectifying section 8 connected to the first end portion 7A. The thickness of the second end portion 7B of the main body section 7 is equal to the thickness of the end portion on the +X direction side of the second rectifying section 9 connected to the second end portion 7B. Note that the thickness of the flow path structure 2 refers to the dimension in the radial direction with respect to the central axis of the cylindrical portion 30.

[0033] The outer shape and dimensions of the first rectifying section 8 are equal to the outer shape and dimensions of the second rectifying section 9. The main body section 7, the first rectifying section 8, and the second rectifying section 9 are integral (single member). The central axis of the main body section 7, the central axis of the first rectifying section 8, and the central axis of the second rectifying section 9 coincide. The flow path structure 2 is disposed inside the shell 3 such that the central axis of the flow path structure 2 coincides with the central axis of the cylindrical portion 30.

[0034] The first rectifying section 8 is disposed in the first header 33. The second rectifying section 9 is disposed in the second header 34.

[0035] The inlet 51 of the first flow path 5 is provided on the surface of the first rectifying section 8. The outlet 52 of the first flow path 5 is provided on the surface of the second rectifying section 9.

[0036] The inlet 61 of the second flow path 6 is provided on the surface of the second rectifying section 9. The outlet 62 of the second flow path 6 is provided on the surface of the first rectifying section 8.

[0037] In the present embodiment, the inlet 51 of the first flow path 5 is provided on the top surface 81 of the first rectifying section 8. The outlet 52 of the first flow path 5 is provided on the top surface 91 of the second rectifying section 9.

[0038] In this embodiment, the inlet 61 of the second flow path 6 is provided on the side surface 92 of the second rectifying portion 9. The outlet 62 of the second flow path 6 is provided on the side surface 82 of the first rectifying portion 8.

[0039] Since the outer shape of the second rectifying portion 9 is frustum-shaped, the first flow path 5 is formed such that the total cross-sectional area of the first flow path 5 gradually increases from the top surface 91 of the second rectifying portion 9 toward the main body portion 7. Similarly, the second flow path 6 is formed such that the total cross-sectional area of the second flow path 6 gradually increases from the top surface 91 of the second rectifying portion 9 toward the main body portion 7. Also, since the outer shape of the first rectifying portion 8 is frustum-shaped, the first flow path 5 is formed such that the total cross-sectional area of the first flow path 5 gradually increases from the top surface 81 of the first rectifying portion 8 toward the main body portion 7. Similarly, the second flow path 6 is formed such that the total cross-sectional area of the second flow path 6 gradually increases from the top surface 81 of the first rectifying portion 8 toward the main body portion 7.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for explaining the flow of the first fluid Fa and the second fluid Fb according to this embodiment.

[0041] The first supply port 35 is disposed at least partially around the first rectifying portion 8. Specifically, the first supply port 35 is connected to the first wall portion 31. The first supply port 35 supplies the first fluid Fa to the first rectifying portion 8. The first supply port 35 communicates with the top surface 81 of the first rectifying portion 8. The first supply port 35 supplies the first fluid Fa to the top surface 81 of the first rectifying portion 8. That is, the first supply port 35 supplies the first fluid Fa to the inlet 51 of the first flow path 5. The first fluid Fa is supplied to the inlet 51 via the first supply port 35. The first fluid Fa from the first supply port 35 is not supplied to the outlet 62. The first fluid Fa flows into the first flow path 5 through the inlet 51. The first fluid Fa that has flowed into the inlet 51 flows through the first flow path 5. The first fluid Fa flows through the first flow path 5 toward the outlet 52 of the first flow path 5.

[0042] The first discharge port 36 is disposed at least in part around the second rectifying portion 9. Specifically, the first discharge port 36 is connected to the second wall portion 32. The first discharge port 36 discharges the first fluid Fa from the second rectifying portion 9. The first discharge port 36 communicates with the top surface 91 of the second rectifying portion 9. The first discharge port 36 discharges the first fluid Fa from the top surface 91 of the second rectifying portion 9. That is, the first discharge port 36 discharges the first fluid Fa from the outlet 52 of the first flow path 5. The first fluid Fa flowing out from the outlet 52 is discharged to the outside of the shell 3 through the first discharge port 36.

[0043] The second supply port 37 is disposed at least in part around the second rectifying portion 9. Specifically, the second supply port 37 is connected to a part on the -X direction side of the cylindrical portion 30 where the second header 34 is defined. The second supply port 37 supplies the second fluid Fb to the second rectifying portion 9. The second supply port 37 communicates with the side surface 92 of the second rectifying portion 9. The second supply port 37 supplies the second fluid Fb to the side surface 92 of the second rectifying portion 9. That is, the second supply port 37 supplies the second fluid Fb to the inlet 61 of the second flow path 6. The second fluid Fb is supplied to the inlet 61 through the second supply port 37. The second fluid Fb from the second supply port 37 is not supplied to the outlet 52. The second fluid Fb flows into the second flow path 6 through the inlet 61. The second fluid Fb flowing into the inlet 61 flows through the second flow path 6. The second fluid Fb flows through the second flow path 6 toward the outlet 62 of the second flow path 6.

[0044] The second discharge port 38 is disposed at least in part around the first rectifying portion 8. Specifically, the second discharge port 38 is connected to a part on the +X direction side of the cylindrical portion 30 where the first header 33 is defined. The second discharge port 38 discharges the second fluid Fb from the first rectifying portion 8. The second discharge port 38 communicates with the side surface 82 of the first rectifying portion 8. The second discharge port 38 discharges the second fluid Fb from the side surface 82 of the first rectifying portion 8. That is, the second discharge port 38 discharges the second fluid Fb from the outlet 62 of the second flow path 6. The second fluid Fb flowing out from the outlet 62 is discharged to the outside of the shell 3 through the second discharge port 38.

[0045] The first fluid Fa flowing through the first flow path 5 and the second fluid Fb flowing through the second flow path 6 exchange heat through the partition wall 4.

[0046] As described above, the fluid processor 1 includes a flow path structure 2 having a first flow path 5 through which the first fluid Fa flows and a second flow path 6 through which the second fluid Fb flows, separated by a partition wall 4 along a triply periodic minimal surface, and a shell 3 covering the flow path structure 2. The flow path structure 2 includes a main body portion 7 having a first end portion 7A and a second end portion 7B, a first rectifying portion 8 disposed at the first end portion 7A and becoming thinner as it moves away from the main body portion 7, and a second rectifying portion 9 disposed at the second end portion 7B and becoming thinner as it moves away from the main body portion 7. The inlet 51 of the first flow path 5 is provided on the surface of the first rectifying portion 8. The outlet 52 of the first flow path 5 is provided on the surface of the second rectifying portion 9. The inlet 61 of the second flow path 6 is provided on the surface of the second rectifying portion 9. The outlet 62 of the second flow path 6 is provided on the surface of the first rectifying portion 8.

[0047] According to the present embodiment, since the first rectifying portion 8 becomes thinner as it moves away from the main body portion 7, the first fluid Fa is smoothly supplied not only to the first flow path 5 near the central axis of the first rectifying portion 8 but also to the first flow path 5 near the surface of the first rectifying portion 8. As a result, the first fluid Fa is smoothly supplied not only to the first flow path 5 near the central axis of the main body portion 7 but also to the first flow path 5 near the surface of the main body portion 7. The first fluid Fa can be distributed throughout the flow path structure 2.

[0048] Similarly, since the second rectifying portion 9 becomes thinner as it moves away from the main body portion 7, the second fluid Fb is smoothly supplied not only to the second flow path 6 near the surface of the second rectifying portion 9 but also to the second flow path 6 near the central axis of the second rectifying portion 9. As a result, the second fluid Fb is smoothly supplied not only to the second flow path 6 near the surface of the main body portion 7 but also to the second flow path 6 near the central axis of the main body portion 7. The second fluid Fb can be distributed throughout the flow path structure 2.

[0049] Since each of the first fluid Fa and the second fluid Fb extends throughout the flow path structure 2, a decrease in the processing efficiency of the fluid processor 1 is suppressed. When the fluid processor 1 is a heat exchanger, a decrease in the heat exchange efficiency between the first fluid Fa and the second fluid Fb is suppressed.

[0050] Also, in the present embodiment, the first fluid Fa flows through the first flow path 5 from the end on the +X direction side to the end on the -X direction side of the flow path structure 2. The second fluid Fb flows through the second flow path 6 from the end on the -X direction side to the end on the +X direction side of the flow path structure 2. That is, the first fluid Fa and the second fluid Fb are in a countercurrent flow. Thereby, the first fluid Fa and the second fluid Fb are efficiently heat-exchanged.

[0051] Each of the first rectifying portion 8 and the second rectifying portion 9 has a frustum shape. The inlet 51 of the first flow path 5 is provided on the top surface 81 of the first rectifying portion 8. The outlet 52 of the first flow path 5 is provided on the top surface 91 of the second rectifying portion 9. The inlet 61 of the second flow path 6 is provided on the side surface 92 of the second rectifying portion 9. The outlet 62 of the second flow path 6 is provided on the side surface 82 of the first rectifying portion 8. Thereby, each of the first fluid Fa and the second fluid Fb extends throughout the flow path structure 2.

[0052] The second supply port 37 is arranged on the -Y direction side of the central axis of the cylindrical portion 30. Thereby, the second fluid Fb supplied from the second supply port 37 to the second header 34 flows so as to swirl around the second rectifying portion 9 in the second header 34. Thereby, the second fluid Fb can extend throughout the second rectifying portion 9.

[0053] The second discharge port 38 is arranged on the +Y direction side of the central axis of the cylindrical portion 30. Thereby, the second fluid Fb flowing out from the outlet 62 flows so as to swirl around the first rectifying portion 8 in the first header 33 and then is discharged from the second discharge port 38.

[0054] [Second Embodiment] A description will be given of the second embodiment. In the following description, the same or equivalent components as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of those components will be simplified or omitted.

[0055] FIG. 7 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a second rectifying section 9 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the second rectifying section 9 according to the present embodiment, and corresponds to a sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 7.

[0056] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, each of the first flow path 5 and the second flow path 6 is formed such that the flow path density gradually decreases (changes from a dense state to a coarse state) from the top surface 91 of the second rectifying section 9 toward the main body portion 7. Although not shown, each of the first flow path 5 and the second flow path 6 is formed such that the flow path density gradually decreases (changes from a dense state to a coarse state) from the top surface 81 of the first rectifying section 8 toward the main body portion 7.

[0057] The flow path density of the first flow path 5 is defined as the total wetting edge length of the first flow path 5 per unit cross-sectional area of the flow path structure 2. The flow path density of the second flow path 6 is defined as the total wetting edge length of the second flow path 6 per unit cross-sectional area of the flow path structure 2. The unit of the flow path density is [m / m 2 . The greater the number of partition walls 4 included in the unit cross-sectional area, the greater the flow path density.

[0058] The unit cross-sectional area of the flow path structure 2 refers to the cross-sectional area including both the voids (the first flow path 5 and the second flow path 6) and the objects (partition walls 4) of the flow path structure 2 that are orthogonal to the central axis of the flow path structure 2 parallel to the X axis. The wetting edge length refers to the peripheral length of the cross section where the fluid contacts the solid wall surface.

[0059] For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the wetting edge length of the first flow path 5 per unit cross-sectional area of the flow path structure 2 refers to the total length of the inner edge line 5E of the first flow path 5 with which the first fluid Fa contacts in the plane orthogonal to the central axis of the flow path structure 2. Similarly, although not shown, the wetting edge length of the second flow path 6 per unit cross-sectional area of the flow path structure 2 refers to the total length of the inner edge line of the second flow path 6 with which the second fluid Fb contacts in the plane orthogonal to the central axis of the flow path structure 2.

[0060] Note that the channel density of the first channel 5 may be defined as the total surface area of the first channels 5 per unit apparent volume of the channel structure 2. The channel density of the second channel 6 may be defined as the total surface area of the second channels 6 per unit apparent volume of the channel structure 2. In this case, the unit of the channel density is [m 2 / m 3 . The unit apparent volume of the channel structure 2 refers to the volume including both the voids (the first channels 5 and the second channels 6) and the objects (the partition walls 4) of the channel structure 2.

[0061] As described above, in the present embodiment, each of the first channels 5 and the second channels 6 is formed such that the channel density gradually decreases (changes from a dense state to a coarse state) from the top surface 81 of the first rectifying portion 8 toward the main body portion 7, and gradually decreases (changes from a dense state to a coarse state) from the top surface 91 of the second rectifying portion 9 toward the main body portion 7. Thereby, the first fluid Fa from the first supply port 35 can be distributed over the entire channel structure 2, and the second fluid Fb from the second supply port 37 can be distributed over the entire channel structure 2.

[0062] [Third Embodiment] The third embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same or equivalent components as those in the above-described embodiment, and the description of those components is simplified or omitted.

[0063] FIG. 9 is a view showing a side surface 92 of the second rectifying portion 9 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 9, in the present embodiment, the size of the inlet 61 of the second channel 6 gradually decreases from the top surface 91 of the second rectifying portion 9 toward the main body portion 7. The size of the inlet 61 includes the opening area of the inlet 61. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the inlet 61 includes an inlet 61A, an inlet 61B closer to the main body portion 7 following the inlet 61A, and an inlet 61C closer to the main body portion 7 following the inlet 61B. The size of the inlet 61C is smaller than the size of the inlet 61B. The size of the inlet 61B is smaller than the size of the inlet 61A.

[0064] As shown in Fig. 7, when the channel density of the second channel 6 is formed to gradually decrease from the top surface 91 of the second rectifying portion 9 toward the main body portion 7, the size of the inlet 61 formed on the side surface (the opening area per unit area) gradually increases from the top surface 91 of the second rectifying portion 9 toward the main body portion 7. In this state, the difference between the total inflow amount of the second fluid Fb flowing into the second channel 6 from the inlet 61 close to the top surface 91 and the total inflow amount of the second fluid Fb flowing into the second channel 6 from the inlet 61 close to the main body portion 7 becomes large. Therefore, it is preferable to partially cover the original opening of the inlet 61 with a closing wall so that the size of the inlet 61 gradually decreases from the top surface 91 of the second rectifying portion 9 toward the main body portion 7. Thereby, it becomes possible to reduce the difference between the total inflow amount of the second fluid Fb flowing into the second channel 6 from the inlet 61 close to the top surface 91 and the total inflow amount of the second fluid Fb flowing into the second channel 6 from the inlet 61 close to the main body portion 7.

[0065] That is, as shown in Fig. 9, by forming the inlet 61, the total inflow amount of the second fluid Fb flowing into the corresponding second channel 6 from the inlet 61A, the total inflow amount of the second fluid Fb flowing into the corresponding second channel 6 from the inlet 61B, and the total inflow amount of the second fluid Fb flowing into the corresponding second channel 6 from the inlet 61C are made uniform. Thereby, the second fluid Fb is distributed over the entire second rectifying portion 9.

[0066] Although not shown, the size of the outlet 62 of the second channel 6 gradually decreases from the top surface 81 of the first rectifying portion 8 toward the main body portion 7. By the size of the outlet 62 gradually decreasing from the top surface 81 of the first rectifying portion 8 toward the main body portion 7, the difference between the total outflow amount of the second fluid Fb flowing out from the outlet 62 close to the top surface 81 and the total outflow amount of the second fluid Fb flowing out from the outlet 62 close to the main body portion 7 becomes small. Thereby, the second fluid Fb is distributed over the entire first rectifying portion 8.

[0067] As described above, in the present embodiment, the size of the inlet 61 of the second flow path 6 gradually decreases from the top surface 91 of the second rectifying portion 9 toward the main body portion 7. According to the present embodiment, the difference between the total opening area of the inlet 61 close to the top surface 91 and the total opening area of the inlet 61 close to the main body portion 7 is reduced. That is, the total opening area of the inlet 61A, the total opening area of the inlet 61B, and the total opening area of the inlet 61C are made uniform.

[0068] [Fourth Embodiment] The fourth embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same or equivalent components as those in the above-described embodiment, and the description of those components is simplified or omitted.

[0069] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining the flow of the first fluid Fa and the second fluid Fb according to the present embodiment.

[0070] In the present embodiment, the inlet 51 of the first flow path 5 is the side surface 82 of the first rectifying portion 8, and the first supply port 35 is provided corresponding to this inlet 51. The outlet 52 of the first flow path 5 is the top surface 91 of the second rectifying portion 9, and the first discharge port 36 is provided corresponding to this outlet 52. The inlet 61 of the second flow path 6 is the side surface 92 of the second rectifying portion 9, and the second supply port 37 is provided corresponding to this inlet 61. The outlet 62 of the second flow path 6 is the top surface 81 of the first rectifying portion 8, and the second discharge port 38 is provided corresponding to this outlet 62.

[0071] In the case of the flow of the first fluid Fa and the second fluid Fb shown in FIG. 6, since the flow of the first fluid Fa is expanded from the top surface 81 of the first rectifying portion 8 toward the main body portion 7, relatively uneven flow is likely to occur. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 10, by flowing the first fluid Fa from the side surface 82 of the first rectifying portion 8 toward the main body portion 7, it is possible to suppress uneven flow without expanding the flow.

[0072] In actual operation, when a certain degree of uneven flow, such as a large flow rate or a high heat transfer rate, is allowed for one of the two fluids, the flow method of the first embodiment (Fig. 6) may be used. However, when uneven flow is not allowed for both fluids, the flow method of this embodiment is desirable. By adopting the flow method shown in Fig. 10, efficient heat exchange can be achieved between fluids with small flow rates or low heat transfer rates.

[0073] [Other Embodiments] In the above-described embodiment, a sealing member may be provided to seal the boundary between the top surface 81, the side surface 82, and the shell 3 so that the first fluid Fa from the first supply port 35 is supplied to the inlet 51 (top surface 81) and not to the outlet 62 (side surface 82).

[0074] In the above-described embodiment, a sealing member may be provided to seal the boundary between the top surface 91, the side surface 92, and the shell 3 so that the first fluid Fa from the second supply port 37 is supplied to the inlet 61 (side surface 92) and not to the outlet 52 (top surface 91).

[0075] In the above-described embodiment, one or both of the first flow path 5 and the second flow path 6 may be formed such that the flow path density becomes constant from the top surface 91 of the second rectifying portion 9 toward the main body portion 7. One or both of the first flow path 5 and the second flow path 6 may be formed such that the flow path density becomes constant from the top surface 81 of the first rectifying portion 8 toward the main body portion 7.

[0076] In the above-described embodiment, the main body portion 7 may be formed such that the flow path density gradually increases from the first end portion 7A toward the second end portion 7B, or gradually decreases, or remains constant.

[0077] In the above-described embodiment, the fluid processor 1 is an indirect heat exchanger in which the first flow path 5 and the second flow path 6 are separated by the partition wall 4. The fluid processor 1 may also be a direct heat exchanger. By forming macro pores (for example, apertures of about 2 to 10 mm) in the partition wall 4 that communicate the first flow path 5 and the second flow path 6, the first fluid Fa and the second fluid Fb can directly exchange heat.

[0078] In the above-described embodiment, the fluid processor 1 may also be a mixer that mixes the first fluid Fa and the second fluid Fb. By forming macro pores (for example, apertures of about 2 to 10 mm) in the partition wall 4 that communicate the first flow path 5 and the second flow path 6, the first fluid Fa and the second fluid Fb are mixed. As the first rectifying portion 8 becomes narrower as it moves away from the main body portion 7 and the second rectifying portion 9 becomes narrower as it moves away from the main body portion 7, the first fluid Fa and the second fluid Fb are efficiently mixed. Also, a decrease in the mixing efficiency of the first fluid Fa and the second fluid Fb is suppressed.

[0079] In the above-described embodiment, the fluid processor 1 may also be a filter. By forming micro pores (for example, pores of about 0.1 to 0.2 μm) in the partition wall 4 that communicate the first flow path 5 and the second flow path 6, solids are separated from the first fluid Fa. For example, when the first fluid Fa is a liquid (for example, water) and contains solids (for example, suspensions), the first fluid Fa supplied to the first flow path 5 passes through the micro pores of the partition wall 4, and the solids are separated from the first fluid Fa. As the first rectifying portion 8 becomes narrower as it moves away from the main body portion 7 and the second rectifying portion 9 becomes narrower as it moves away from the main body portion 7, the solids are efficiently separated from the first fluid Fa. Also, a decrease in the separation efficiency of the first fluid Fa and the solids is suppressed.

[0080] In the above-described embodiment, the fluid processor 1 may be a reactor. For example, a reaction layer such as a catalyst layer or a biological layer is formed on the inner surface of the first flow path 5, and in a state where the first fluid Fa (for example, a gas or a liquid) is flowing in the first flow path 5, a second fluid Fb for adjusting the temperature of the first fluid Fa flows in the second flow path 6, so that the first fluid Fa may react with the reaction layer. As the first rectifying portion 8 becomes narrower as it moves away from the main body portion 7 and the second rectifying portion 9 becomes narrower as it moves away from the main body portion 7, the first fluid Fa reacts efficiently with the reaction layer. Further, a decrease in the reaction efficiency between the first fluid Fa and the reaction layer is suppressed.

[0081] [Contribution to the United Nations-led Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)] The fluid processor according to the present disclosure can contribute to the achievement of Goal 9, "Build the infrastructure for industry and innovation," of the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).

Description of Reference Numerals

[0082] 1... Fluid processor, 2... Flow path structure, 3... Shell, 4... Partition wall, 5... First flow path, 5E... Inner edge line, 6... Second flow path, 7... Main body portion, 7A... First end portion, 7B... Second end portion, 8... First rectifying portion, 9... Second rectifying portion, 30... Cylindrical portion, 31... First wall portion, 32... Second wall portion, 33... First header, 34... Second header, 35... First supply port, 36... First discharge port, 37... Second supply port, 38... Second discharge port, 51... Inlet, 52... Outlet, 61... Inlet, 61A... Inlet, 61B... Inlet, 61C... Inlet, 62... Outlet, 81... Top surface, 82... Side surface, 91... Top surface, 92... Side surface, Fa... First fluid, Fb... Second fluid.

Claims

1. A flow path structure having a first flow path through which a first fluid flows and a second flow path through which a second fluid flows, separated by a partition along a triply periodic minimal surface, and a shell covering the flow path structure, wherein the flow path structure has a main body portion having a first end portion and a second end portion, a first rectifying portion disposed at the first end portion and becoming thinner as it moves away from the main body portion, and a second rectifying portion disposed at the second end portion and becoming thinner as it moves away from the main body portion, wherein an inlet of the first flow path is provided on a surface of the first rectifying portion, an outlet of the first flow path is provided on a surface of the second rectifying portion, an inlet of the second flow path is provided on a surface of the second rectifying portion, and an outlet of the second flow path is provided on a surface of the first rectifying portion, A fluid processor.

2. Each of the first rectifying portion and the second rectifying portion has a frustum shape, The fluid processor according to Claim 1.

3. The inlet of the first flow path is provided on the top surface of the first rectifying portion, The outlet of the first flow path is provided on the top surface of the second rectifying portion, The inlet of the second flow path is provided on a side surface of the second rectifying portion, and the outlet of the second flow path is provided on a side surface of the first rectifying portion, The fluid processor according to Claim 2.

4. The inlet of the first flow path is provided on a side surface of the first rectifying portion, The outlet of the first flow path is provided on the top surface of the second rectifying portion, The inlet of the second flow path is provided on a side surface of the second rectifying portion, and the outlet of the second flow path is provided on the top surface of the first rectifying portion, The fluid processor according to Claim 2.

5. Each of the first flow path and the second flow path is formed such that the flow path density gradually decreases from the top surface of the first rectifying portion toward the main body portion and gradually decreases from the top surface of the second rectifying portion toward the main body portion, The flow path density is defined as the total wetting edge length of each of the first flow path and the second flow path per unit cross-sectional area of the flow path structure, The fluid processor according to Claim 3 or Claim 4.

6. The size of the inlet of the second flow path gradually decreases from the top surface of the second rectifying portion toward the main body portion, and the size of the outlet of the second flow path gradually decreases from the top surface of the first rectifying portion toward the main body portion, The fluid processor according to Claim 3 or Claim 4.

7. The shell is disposed at least in part around the first rectifying portion and has a first supply port for supplying the first fluid to the first rectifying portion, A first discharge port that is disposed at least partially around the second rectifying unit and discharges the first fluid from the second rectifying unit; A second supply port that is disposed at least partially around the second rectifying unit and supplies the second fluid to the second rectifying unit; A second discharge port that is disposed at least partially around the first rectifying unit and discharges the second fluid from the first rectifying unit, and The fluid processor according to claim 1.

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