Flow path unit and refrigerant circulation device

Abstract

To provide a flow path unit and a refrigerant circulation device for improving the ease of use of the refrigerant circulation device.SOLUTION: A flow path unit 15a according to the present disclosure comprises a main body 151 including a flow path continuous with each of a first opening 151a and a second opening 151b, a first tubular body 152 extending in a first direction intersecting the first opening 151a in a flow path 151c and being formed with a plurality of holes, and a sensor 17a for detecting a pressure in the first tubular body 152. One end of the first tubular body 152 in the first direction is connected to the first opening 151a. The sensor 17a is disposed closer to the other end 1522 of the first tubular body 152 than the one end 1521 of the first tubular body 152.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a flow path unit and a refrigerant circulation device. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART A refrigerant circulation device is known that cools an object to be cooled by transferring heat received from the object to a circulating refrigerant (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-140342 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a technique for improving the usability of a refrigerant circulation device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One exemplary aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a flow path unit including a main body, a first cylindrical body, and a sensor. The main body has flow paths that are continuous with each of a first opening and a second opening. The first cylindrical body extends in a first direction that intersects with the first opening within the flow path. A plurality of holes are formed in the first cylindrical body. The sensor detects pressure within the first cylindrical body. One end of the first cylindrical body in the first direction is connected to the first opening. The sensor is positioned closer to the other end of the first cylindrical body than the one end of the first cylindrical body.

[0006] Another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a coolant circulation device including the flow path unit at an inlet for the coolant. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a technique for improving the usability of a refrigerant circulation device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a cooling system 100. As shown in FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the CDU 1 shown in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the internal configuration of the CDU 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the CDU 1 taken along line IV-IV shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the CDU 1 taken along line VV shown in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the CDU 1 taken along line VI-VI shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a flow path unit 15a shown in FIG. [Figure 8] 8 is a cross-sectional view of the flow path unit 15a taken along line VIII-VIII shown in FIG. 7. FIG. [Figure 9] 9 is an enlarged view showing the end portion on the other X2 side in the X direction of the flow path unit 15a shown in FIG. 8. FIG. [Figure 10] 9 is an enlarged view showing an end portion on one side X1 in the X direction of the flow path unit 15a shown in FIG. 8. FIG. [Figure 11] 3 is a perspective view showing openings 111a and 111b formed in the housing 11 shown in FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 12] 12 is a diagram showing the insertion and removal of pumps 15g and 15h through openings 111a and 111b shown in FIG. [Figure 13] 13 is a perspective view showing a structure for fixing pumps 15g and 15h shown in FIG. 12 to a housing 11. FIG. [Figure 14] 14 is a perspective view showing a fixing structure of the lever 183 shown in FIG. 13. FIG. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will not be repeated.

[0010] [Cooling system 100] 1, the cooling system 100 includes, as components, a refrigerant circulation unit (hereinafter also referred to as "CDU") 1, a distribution manifold 2, a collection manifold 3, at least one cold plate 4, a cooling device 6, and flow paths 7 and 8. At least one heat source 5 installed in a space A01 is cooled by the components.

[0011] If the cooling system 100 is provided with one cold plate 4, the cooling system 100 does not need to include the distribution manifold 2 and the collection manifold 3.

[0012] Among the components, the CDU 1, the distribution manifold 2, the collection manifold 3, and the cold plate 4 are installed in a space A01. The space A01 is, for example, a server room.

[0013] [Heat source 5, rack 9] A rack 9 is provided in the space A01. For example, a plurality of heat sources 5 are housed in the rack 9. Each heat source 5 is typically an electronic component or an electronic device. The electronic component is a component that constitutes an electronic device, and includes, for example, a central processing unit (so-called CPU), an electrolytic capacitor, a power semiconductor module, or a printed circuit board. The electronic component operates when powered and generates heat. The electronic device is a rack-mounted server or a blade server. The electronic device may also be a projector, a personal computer, or a display.

[0014] [CDU1] The CDU 1 can be distributed on the market as a component of the cooling system 100. When distributed as the cooling system 100, the cooling device 6 and the flow paths 7 and 8 may be removed from the cooling system 100. The CDU 1 may also be distributed on the market independently. In this embodiment, the CDU 1 is housed in, for example, a rack 9 when in use. However, this is not limiting, and the CDU 1 may also be installed outside the rack 9 when in use.

[0015] [Case 11] The CDU 1 includes a housing 11. The housing 11 includes an exterior body and a frame, and the exterior body separates the internal space of the CDU 1 from the external space of the CDU 1. The housing 11 has a primary inlet 11a, a primary outlet 11b, a secondary inlet 11c, and a secondary outlet 11d in the exterior body.

[0016] A low-temperature primary refrigerant C1 flows into the primary inlet 11a through the flow path 7. A high-temperature secondary refrigerant C2 flows into the secondary inlet 11c from the collection manifold 3. The CDU 1 exchanges heat between the primary refrigerant C1 (low temperature) flowing into the CDU 1 through the primary inlet 11a and the secondary refrigerant C2 (high temperature) flowing into the CDU 1 through the secondary inlet 11c using a heat exchanger 16 (see FIG. 2). As a result, within the CDU 1, thermal energy of the secondary refrigerant C2 is transferred to the primary refrigerant C1. Specifically, the temperature of the secondary refrigerant C2 is lower when it flows out of the CDU 1 than when it flows into the CDU 1. The CDU 1 pumps the low-temperature secondary refrigerant C2 from the secondary outlet 11d toward the distribution manifold 2 using pumps 15g and 15h (see FIG. 2). The CDU 1 sends the high-temperature primary refrigerant C1 to the flow path 8 from the primary outlet 11b.

[0017] [Primary refrigerant C1, secondary refrigerant C2] The primary refrigerant C1 is a fluid such as a coolant. Examples of the coolant include antifreeze and pure water. Typical examples of antifreeze are an ethylene glycol aqueous solution and a propylene glycol aqueous solution. The secondary refrigerant C2 is a fluid of the same or different type from the primary refrigerant C1. At least one of the primary refrigerant C1 and the secondary refrigerant C2 may be a gas refrigerant.

[0018] [Distribution manifold 2] In FIG. 1, the distribution manifold 2 has a common flow path 21 and a plurality of individual flow paths 22. Note that, for ease of explanation, only two individual flow paths 22 are shown in FIG. 1. Fluid can flow between the common flow path 21 and each individual flow path 22. One end T21 of the common flow path 21 is connected to the secondary outlet 11d and is used as a fluid inlet in the distribution manifold 2. One end T22a of each individual flow path 22 is connected to the common flow path 21. The other end T22b of each individual flow path 22 is used as an outlet for the secondary refrigerant C2 in the distribution manifold 2 and is individually connected to the inlet 41 of the cold plate 4. Therefore, the secondary refrigerant C2 (low temperature) that flows into the inlet (i.e., one end T21) of the distribution manifold 2 first flows within the common flow path 21, is divided into each individual flow path 22, and then flows out from each outlet (i.e., the other end T22b) of the distribution manifold 2.

[0019] In each embodiment, the term "connected" means "connected so that fluid can flow" unless there is an adverb or adjective that further explains "connected."

[0020] [Cold Plate 4] 1, each cold plate 4 is in thermal contact with at least one heat source 5. A secondary refrigerant C2 (low temperature) flows inside each cold plate 4. Specifically, each cold plate 4 is arranged to be in direct thermal contact with the heat source 5. Each cold plate 4 may be arranged to be in thermal contact with the heat source 5 via, for example, a thermally conductive sheet (not shown). In other words, the term "thermal contact" includes both the meanings of "direct thermal contact" and "indirect thermal contact."

[0021] Each cold plate 4 has an inlet 41, an outlet 42, and an internal flow path 43 for the secondary refrigerant C2. The internal flow path 43 connects the inlet 41 and the outlet 42. The secondary refrigerant C2 (low temperature) flows into the inlet 41 from the individual flow paths 22 connected to the inlet 41. The secondary refrigerant C2 flows through the internal flow path 43 to the outlet 42. Therefore, the thermal energy generated in the heat source 5 is transferred to the secondary refrigerant C2 flowing through the internal flow path 43 of the cold plate 4, which is in thermal contact with the heat source 5. As a result, the heat source 5 is cooled, and the temperature of the secondary refrigerant C2 increases. The secondary refrigerant C2 (high temperature) flows out from the outlet 42 to the individual flow paths 31 of the collection manifold 3.

[0022] [Collection Manifold 3] In FIG. 1, the collection manifold 3 has a plurality of individual flow paths 31 and a common flow path 32. For ease of explanation, only two individual flow paths 31 are shown in FIG. 1. Fluid can flow through each of the individual flow paths 31 and the common flow path 32. One end T31a of each individual flow path 31 is connected to an outlet 42 as an inlet for the fluid in the collection manifold 3. The other end T31b of each individual flow path 31 is connected to the common flow path 32. One end T32 of the common flow path 32 is used as an outlet for the fluid in the collection manifold 3 and is connected to the secondary inlet 11c. Therefore, the secondary refrigerant C2 that flows from the cold plate 4 into each inlet (i.e., one end T31a) of the collection manifold 3 joins in the common flow path 32 and flows out from one end (i.e., one end T32) of the collection manifold to the secondary inlet 11c of the CDU 1. Thus, secondary refrigerant C2 circulates through CDU 1, distribution manifold 2, cold plate 4 and collection manifold 3, in that order.

[0023] [Cooling device 6] 1, the cooling device 6 is installed, for example, outside the space A01. The cooling device 6 may be installed either indoors or outdoors. The cooling device 6 is, for example, a chiller or a cooling tower. The cooling device 6 includes an inlet 61, an outlet 62, and an internal flow path 63 for the primary refrigerant C1, a cooling unit 64, and a pump 65. The internal flow path 63 connects the inlet 61 and the outlet 62. The cooling unit 64 and the pump 65 are each inserted into the internal flow path 63.

[0024] The primary refrigerant C1 that flows into the inlet 61 flows into the cooling unit 64 through a flow path. The cooling unit 64 cools the primary refrigerant C1 that flows into the cooling unit 64. The cooling method in the cooling unit 64 may be either an air-cooling method or a water-cooling method. The primary refrigerant C1 that flows out of the cooling unit 64 flows into the pump 65 through the internal flow path 63. The pump 65 pumps the primary refrigerant C1 that flows into the pump 65 toward the outlet 62. In FIG. 1 , the pump 65 is located between the cooling unit 64 and the outlet 62 in the internal flow path 63. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the pump 65 may be located between the outlet 62 and the cooling unit 64 in the internal flow path 63.

[0025] [Parts of CDU 1 (first embodiment)] Next, each part of the CDU 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0026] 3 and subsequent figures show the Z direction, X direction, and Y direction which intersect with each other.

[0027] The Z, X, and Y directions are defined based on the state in which the CDU 1 is installed and ready for use (hereinafter also referred to as the "used state"). In particular, the Z, X, and Y directions are the up-down, front-back, and left-right directions of the CDU 1 in the used state.

[0028] The one side and the other side of the Z direction are also referred to as the one side of the Z direction Z1 and the other side of the Z direction Z2. In this embodiment, the one side of the Z direction Z1 and the other side of the Z direction Z2 are the upward and downward directions of the cooling system 100 in use.

[0029] The one side and the other side of the X direction are also referred to as the one side of the X direction X1 and the other side of the X direction X2. In this embodiment, the one side of the X direction X1 is the direction in which the openings 111a and 111b face when the CDU 1 is in use. The other side of the X direction X2 is the opposite direction to the one side of the X direction X1.

[0030] The one side and the other side of the Y direction are also referred to as the one side of the Y direction Y1 and the other side of the Y direction Y2. In this embodiment, the one side of the Y direction Y1 is the left direction when facing the openings 111a and 111b when the CDU 1 is in use. The other side of the Y direction Y2 is the opposite direction to the one side of the Y direction Y1.

[0031] 2 to 6, the CDU 1 further includes a primary flow path 13, a motor actuator 14, a secondary flow path 15, a heat exchanger 16, a sensor unit 17, an operation unit 18, and a control unit 19 as components.

[0032] [Primary flow path 13] The primary flow path 13 includes a flow path unit 13a, a three-way valve 13b, a pipe 13c, a junction pipe 13d, and a flow path 16c (described later) of the heat exchanger 16. The primary flow path 13 is installed inside the housing 11. The primary flow path 13 is a pipe through which the primary refrigerant C1 flows in the CDU 1.

[0033] The flow path unit 13a has a flow path that connects the primary inlet 11a and the inlet port P00 of the three-way valve 13b.

[0034] The three-way valve 13b includes a valve body, a valve disc, a valve stem, etc. The valve body has three ports to which pipes can be connected: an inlet port P00, a first outlet port P01, and a second outlet port P02. The valve body also has a cavity. The cavity connects the three ports to each other so that fluid can flow between them. The cavity houses a valve disc. The valve disc rotates within the cavity due to a force transmitted from the outside via the valve stem. The rotation of the valve disc adjusts the opening degree D1 of the first outlet port P01 and the opening degree D2 of the second outlet port P02 while maintaining the opening degree of the inlet port P00 at a predetermined value V01 [%]. Specifically, the opening degrees D1 and D2 are adjusted so that the sum of the opening degrees D1 and D2 becomes the predetermined value V02.

[0035] In this embodiment, the opening degrees D1 and D2 are the ratios of the opening area of ​​the port at a given displacement of the valve disc to the opening area of ​​the port when fully open. For ease of understanding, the opening degrees D1 and D2 are expressed as percentages. In this case, the predetermined values ​​V01 and V02 are each approximately equal to or greater than 80% and equal to or less than 120%. The predetermined values ​​V01 and V02 may be fixed values ​​or variable values.

[0036] For example, assuming that the predetermined values ​​V01 and V02 are 100%, if the opening degree D01 is 90%, the opening degree D2 is 10%. Furthermore, if the opening degree D01 is 80%, 60%, 40%, or 20%, the opening degree D2 is 20%, 40%, 60%, or 80%. By adjusting the opening degrees D01 and D02 in this manner, a portion of the primary refrigerant C1 flows in the primary flow path 13 from the three-way valve 13b to the primary outlet 11b via the heat exchanger 16. Meanwhile, the remainder of the primary refrigerant C1 flows in the primary flow path 13 from the three-way valve 13b to the primary outlet 11b without passing through the heat exchanger 16.

[0037] The pipe 13c connects the first outlet port P01 of the three-way valve 13b and the primary inlet 16a of the heat exchanger 16.

[0038] The junction pipe 13d has three ports and a flow path connecting the three ports to one another. The three ports are a first port P11, a second port P12, and a third port P13. The first port P11 is connected to the second outlet port P02 of the three-way valve 13b. The second port P12 is connected to the primary outlet 16b of the heat exchanger 16. The third port P13 is connected to the primary outlet 11b.

[0039] [Motor Actuator 14] The motor actuator 14 has a motor and a link mechanically connected to the output shaft of the motor. The link rotates the valve stem of the three-way valve 13b using power from the motor. If the power supplied to the CDU 1 is lost, the motor actuator 14 rotates the valve stem of the three-way valve 13b so that the opening degree D1 of the first outflow port P01 of the three-way valve 13b becomes 0%.

[0040] [Secondary flow path 15] The secondary flow path 15 includes a flow path unit 15a, a branch pipe 15b, couplings 15c to 15f, pumps 15g and 15h, a junction pipe 15i, a pipe 15j, and a flow path 16f (described later) of the heat exchanger 16. The secondary flow path 15 is installed inside the housing 11. The secondary flow path 15 is a pipe for the secondary refrigerant C2 in the CDU 1.

[0041] The flow path unit 15a connects the secondary inlet 11c and the secondary inlet 16d of the heat exchanger 16.

[0042] The branch pipe 15b has three ports and a flow path connecting the three ports to one another. The three ports are a first port P21, a second port P22, and a third port P23. The first port P21 is connected to the secondary outlet 16e of the heat exchanger 16. The second port P22 is connected to the coupling 15c. The third port P23 is connected to the coupling 15d.

[0043] The junction pipe 15i has three ports and a flow path connecting the three ports to one another. The three ports are a first port P31, a second port P32, and a third port P33. The first port P31 is connected to a coupling 15e. The second port P32 is connected to a coupling 15f. The third port P33 is connected to the secondary outlet 11d.

[0044] Each of the pumps 15g and 15h includes a housing, a pump motor, a pump rotor, an inlet, and an outlet. The inlet of each of the pumps 15g and 15h can be connected to either of the couplings 15c and 15d. The outlet of each of the pumps 15g and 15h can be connected to either of the couplings 15e and 15f. This allows each of the pumps 15g and 15h to be connected to the secondary flow path 15.

[0045] With at least one of the pumps 15g and 15h connected to the secondary flow path 15, the pump rotor rotates within the housing by power from the pump motor. As a result, each of the pumps 15g and 15h draws refrigerant from its inlet and pumps the drawn refrigerant out of its outlet.

[0046] [Heat exchanger 16] The heat exchanger 16 is, for example, a plate-type heat exchanger and includes a plurality of heat transfer plates stacked in the same direction (i.e., a stack of heat transfer plates), a primary inlet 16a, a primary outlet 16b, a secondary inlet 16d, and a secondary outlet 16e.

[0047] The primary inlet 16a, the primary outlet 16b, the secondary inlet 16d, and the secondary outlet 16e are each formed in a heat transfer plate located at one end of the laminate, for example. The laminate also has a flow path 16c formed between the primary inlet 16a and the primary outlet 16b through which the primary refrigerant C1 flows. The laminate also has a flow path 16f formed between the secondary inlet 16d and the secondary outlet 16e through which the secondary refrigerant C2 flows.

[0048] In the heat exchanger 16, the primary refrigerant C1 flows from a primary inlet 16a into a flow path 16c in the stack body and circulates through the stack body toward a primary outlet 16b. The secondary refrigerant C2 flows from a secondary inlet 16d into a flow path 16f in the stack body and circulates through the stack body toward a secondary outlet 16e.

[0049] Furthermore, the secondary refrigerant C2 and the primary refrigerant C1 flow within the stack of heat transfer plates while being physically isolated from each other. Each heat transfer plate is made of a material with relatively low heat transfer resistance. Therefore, heat exchange occurs between the primary refrigerant C1 and the secondary refrigerant C2 within the stack. That is, the heat exchanger 16 exchanges heat between the primary refrigerant C1 and the secondary refrigerant C2. As a result of the heat exchange, the thermal energy of the secondary refrigerant C2 is transferred to the primary refrigerant C1. That is, the secondary refrigerant C2 is at a lower temperature when it flows out of the secondary outlet 16e than when it flows into the secondary inlet 16d.

[0050] [Sensor part 17] The sensor unit 17 includes a pressure sensor 17a, temperature sensors 17b to 17d, and flow rate sensors 17e and 17f.

[0051] The pressure sensor 17a, the temperature sensors 17b to 17d, and the flow rate sensors 17e and 17f output to the control unit 19 signals that correlate with the pressure, temperature, and flow rate that are the detection targets of the respective sensors.

[0052] The pressure sensor 17a detects the pressure inside the flow path unit 15a.

[0053] The temperature sensor 17b detects the temperature inside the flow path unit 13a. The temperature sensor 17c detects the temperature near the third port P13 of the junction pipe 13d. The temperature sensor 17d detects the temperature near the third port P33 of the junction pipe 15i.

[0054] The flow rate sensor 17e detects the flow rate in the passage unit 13a, and the flow rate sensor 17f detects the flow rate near the third port P33 of the junction pipe 15i.

[0055] [Operation unit 18] The operation unit 18 is, for example, a touch screen. The touch screen includes a display and a touch sensor.

[0056] [Control Unit 19] The control unit 19 includes electronic circuits such as a microcomputer and a memory (not shown). The microcomputer controls the components of the CDU 1 according to a program stored in the memory.

[0057] [Main parts of the flow path unit 15a] Next, the main parts of the flow path unit 15a will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 7 to 10, the flow path unit 15a includes a main body 151, a first cylindrical body 152, and a pressure sensor 17a.

[0059] The main body 151 has a first opening 151a, a second opening 151b, and a flow path 151c. The flow path 151c is continuous with both the first opening 151a and the second opening 151b.

[0060] In this embodiment, the first opening 151a is connected to the secondary inlet 11c. That is, the CDU 1 includes the flow path unit 15a at an inlet (i.e., secondary inlet 11c) for the refrigerant (i.e., secondary refrigerant C2). The first opening 151a and the secondary inlet 11c each face toward the other side of the X-direction, X2. The second opening 151b is connected to the secondary inlet 16d and faces toward one side of the Y-direction, Y1. The flow path 151c is indicated by an arrow A02 in FIG. 4.

[0061] The main body 151 further includes a space (indicated by a dashed line in FIG. 7) continuous with the flow path 151c as a storage portion 151d for the secondary refrigerant C2. Therefore, the storage portion 151d is located upstream of the heat exchanger 16 and the pumps 15g and 15h in the secondary flow path 15. This allows the air bubbles contained in the secondary refrigerant C2 to be collected by the storage portion 151d upstream of the heat exchanger 16 and the pumps 15g and 15h.

[0062] The first cylindrical body 152 extends in the flow path 151c in a first direction that intersects with the first opening 151a. In this embodiment, the first direction is the X direction. A plurality of holes 1524 (see FIG. 9) are formed in the first cylindrical body 152. An end 1521 of the first cylindrical body 152 on the other X2 side in the X direction is connected to the first opening 151a. The end 1521 is an example of "one end of the first cylindrical body in the first direction" in the present disclosure.

[0063] Specifically, each of the plurality of holes 1524 penetrates the side wall of the first cylindrical body 152 in a direction intersecting the first direction.

[0064] A cylindrical mesh filter that is detachably connected to the first cylindrical body 152 may be further disposed inside the side wall of the first cylindrical body 152 .

[0065] The pressure sensor 17a detects the pressure inside the first cylindrical body 152. The pressure sensor 17a is disposed closer to an end 1522 of the first cylindrical body 152 on one side X1 in the X direction than to an end 1521 of the first cylindrical body 152.

[0066] According to the configuration of the flow path unit 15a, the replacement time of the first cylindrical body 152 can be estimated based on the signal level of the pressure sensor 17a. Specifically, the secondary refrigerant C2 flows into the flow path unit 15a through the first opening 151a, circulates within the flow path 151c, and flows out through the second opening 151b. If the secondary refrigerant C2 contains foreign matter of a certain size, the foreign matter is collected by the first cylindrical body 152. Therefore, over time, the foreign matter accumulates in the first cylindrical body 152, and eventually the first cylindrical body 152 needs to be replaced. In this embodiment, the signal level of the pressure sensor 17a can be used to determine the pressure drop of the secondary refrigerant C2 in the flow path 151c, and therefore the replacement time of the first cylindrical body 152 can be estimated.

[0067] In addition, in the flow path unit 15a, the first cylindrical body 152 is located at the most upstream position in the flow path 151c, thereby preventing foreign matter from flowing into the heat exchanger 16 and the pumps 15g and 15h.

[0068] The main body 151 has a first tube 1511 and a second tube 1512 .

[0069] In addition to the first opening 151a, the first pipe 1511 further has a bottom wall 1511a and a semi-through hole 1511b formed between the first opening 151a and the bottom wall 1511a.

[0070] The semi-through hole 1511b is a hole whose end on the other X-direction X2 side is open toward the other X-direction X2 through the first opening 151a and whose end on the one X-direction X1 side is closed by the bottom wall 1511a.

[0071] Furthermore, the first pipe 1511 extends in the X direction on the other Z-direction side Z2 of the storage portion 151d. With respect to the dimension in the Y direction, the first pipe 1511 is smaller than the storage portion 151d. The second cylindrical body 152 is housed in the first pipe 1511, which has a relatively small dimension in the Y direction. Therefore, even if the amount of secondary refrigerant C2 in the storage portion 151d decreases, the secondary refrigerant C2 can circulate within the first pipe 1511.

[0072] The second pipe 1512 extends from a position P51 between the first opening 151a and the bottom wall 1511a in the first pipe 1511. The second pipe 1512 has a second opening 151b and a through hole 1512a that communicates with both the semi-through hole 1511b and the second opening 151b.

[0073] According to the configuration of the flow path unit 15a, the pressure sensor 17a is located on the bottom wall 1511a, so the pressure inside the first cylindrical body 152 can be detected more accurately than when the pressure sensor 17a is located somewhere other than the bottom wall 1511a.

[0074] The second opening 151b faces the first cylindrical body 152 in a second direction intersecting the first direction. In the present embodiment, the second direction is the Y direction. The configuration of the flow path unit 15a reduces pressure loss of the secondary refrigerant C2 flowing from the first cylindrical body 152 to the second opening 151b.

[0075] The second pipe 1512 extends from the position P01 in a second direction intersecting the first direction. According to the configuration of the flow path unit 15a, the second pipe 1512 extends in the second direction, thereby reducing the pressure loss of the secondary refrigerant C2 flowing from the first cylindrical body 152 to the second opening 151b.

[0076] The flow path unit 15a further includes a support portion 153. The support portion 153 supports the first cylindrical body 152 at a position spaced apart from the first pipe member 1511. In detail, the support portion 153 is interposed between the first cylindrical body 152 and the first pipe member 1511, thereby separating the first cylindrical body 152 from the first pipe member 1511.

[0077] The configuration of the flow path unit 15a improves the foreign matter capturing performance of the first cylindrical body 152. In particular, if the first cylindrical body 152 is not separated from the first pipe member 1511, it is difficult for the first cylindrical body 152 to capture foreign matter. However, by separating the first cylindrical body 152 from the first pipe member 1511 using the support portion 153 as in the flow path unit 15a, the secondary refrigerant C2 flows between the first cylindrical body 152 and the first pipe member 1511. Therefore, it becomes easier for the first cylindrical body 152 to capture foreign matter.

[0078] The support portion 153 has a second cylindrical body 1531 located between the bottom wall 1511a and the end 1522 of the first cylindrical body 152. The second cylindrical body 1531 is attached to the bottom wall 1511a. The second cylindrical body 1531 contacts the inner surface 1523 of the first cylindrical body 152. The pressure sensor 17a has a pressure-receiving portion 171a inside the second cylindrical body 1531. The flow path unit 15a can guide the secondary refrigerant C2 to the pressure-receiving portion 171a of the pressure sensor 17a. Therefore, the pressure in the flow path 151c can be detected relatively accurately. The pressure-receiving portion 171a is a portion that receives the pressure to be detected by the pressure sensor 17a.

[0079] The second cylindrical body 1531 has a portion whose inner diameter increases the farther it is from the bottom wall 1511a. According to the flow path unit 15a, the pressure that the pressure receiving portion 171a receives increases, making it easier to detect the pressure in the flow path 171c.

[0080] [Main parts of the housing 11] 11, the outer shape of the housing 11 is, for example, a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape that is relatively thin in the Z direction and relatively long in the X direction. The housing 11 has panels 111 to 115. The panels 111 to 115 define the outer shape of the housing 11. The panels 111 to 115 define an internal space A11 of the housing 11 from the outside.

[0081] The panel 111 extends in the Y and Z directions at the end of the housing 11 on one side X1 in the X direction.

[0082] Panel 112 extends from an end of panel 111 on one side Y1 in the Y direction toward the other side X2 in the X direction, and expands in the X and Z directions. Panel 113 extends from an end of panel 111 on the other side Y2 in the Y direction toward the other side X2 in the X direction, and expands in the X and Z directions. Panels 112 and 113 are positioned apart from each other in the Y direction.

[0083] Panel 114 extends from an end of panel 111 on one side in the Z direction, Z1, toward the other side in the X direction, X2, and expands in the X and Y directions. Panel 115 extends from an end of panel 111 on the other side in the Z direction, Z2, toward the other side in the X direction, X2, and expands in the X and Y directions. Panels 114 and 115 are positioned apart from each other in the Z direction.

[0084] Two openings 111a and 111b are formed at different positions on the panel 111. That is, the housing 11 has the openings 111a and 111b. The number of openings may be other than two. The openings 111a and 111b are generally rectangular in plan view from the X direction. The openings 111a and 111b are open toward one side X1 in the X direction and are continuous with the internal space A11 of the housing 11. The opening 111a is located on one side Y1 in the Y direction with respect to the opening 111b. The internal space A11 is provided with guides (not shown) for the pumps 15g and 15h that are inserted and removed through the openings 111a and 111b.

[0085] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, each of the pumps 15g and 15h is movable in the X direction within the internal space A11 through either of the openings 111a and 111b.

[0086] Specifically, when the pumps 15g and 15h are inserted, they are moved in the other X-direction X2 while being guided in the internal space A11 through either the opening 111a or 111b by an external force applied by a person. The pumps 15g and 15h are attached to predetermined attachment positions within the internal space A11.

[0087] When viewed from the opening 111a, the couplings 15c and 15d are located at the back of the internal space A11 in the other side X2 of the X direction. When viewed from the opening 111b, the couplings 15e and 15f are located at the back of the internal space A11 in the other side X2 of the X direction.

[0088] When one of the pumps 15g, 15h is attached to the internal space A11 through the opening 111a, the inlet and outlet of the one of the pumps 15g, 15h are connected to the couplings 15c, 15e, respectively. As a result, the secondary refrigerant C2 can flow into one of the pumps 15g, 15h through the coupling 15c, and the secondary refrigerant C2 can flow out of one of the pumps 15g, 15h through the coupling 15e. Similarly, when one of the pumps 15g, 15h is attached to the internal space A11 through the opening 111b, the inlet and outlet of the one of the pumps 15g, 15h are connected to the couplings 15d, 15f, respectively.

[0089] Each of the pumps 15g and 15h is fixed to the housing 11 by a fixing structure to be described later.

[0090] On the other hand, when removing the pumps 15g and 15h, they are first released from the housing 11. Then, an external force is applied to the pumps 15g and 15h in one direction X1 in the X direction by a person. This causes the pumps 15g and 15h to move from the internal space A11 in one direction X1 in the X direction. During this process, the inlet and outlet of each of the pumps 15g and 15h are removed from the couplings 15c to 15f, respectively. Then, the pumps 15g and 15h are guided in the one direction X1 in the X direction within the internal space A11 and removed through the openings 111a and 111b.

[0091] [Pump 15g, 15h fixed structure] 11, the housing 11 has stoppers 116a and 116b. The stoppers 116a and 116b are provided at positions facing each other in the Y direction on the periphery of the opening 111a. The stopper 116a is located at the end on one side Y1 in the Y direction and approximately in the center in the Z direction on the periphery of the opening 111a. At this position, the stopper 116a is in the form of a small plate that extends in both the Y and Z directions. The stopper 116b is located on the opposite side in the Y direction from the stopper 116a on the periphery of the opening 111a, and is in the form of a small plate of approximately the same size as the stopper 116a.

[0092] The housing 11 also has stoppers 116c and 116d similar to the stoppers 116a and 116b on the periphery of the opening 111b.

[0093] As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, each of the pumps 15g and 15h includes a pump housing 181, a panel 182, a lever 183, claws 184a and 184b, and a claw moving mechanism 185.

[0094] The pump housing 181 has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape that is relatively long in the X direction and has dimensions in the Z, X, and Y directions that allow it to be inserted into and removed from the housing 11 through the openings 111a and 111b. The pump housing 181 houses an internal flow path for the secondary refrigerant C2, a pump rotor, and a pump motor. The pump housing 181 has an inlet 181a and a discharge outlet 181b at its end on the other side (X2) in the X direction.

[0095] The panel 182 is fixedly attached to one end X1 of the pump housing 181 in the X direction. The pump housing 181 has the panel 182. In this embodiment, the panel 182 is thin in the X direction and has a plate shape that extends in both the Z direction and the Y direction. The panel 182 has a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from above in the X direction. The dimensions of the panel 182 in each of the Z direction and the Y direction are approximately the same as the dimensions of the openings 111a, 111b in each of the Z direction and the Y direction.

[0096] A slit 182a is formed in the panel 182. The slit 182a extends from near an end of the panel 182 in one direction Z1 in the Z direction toward the other direction Z2 in the Z direction.

[0097] 13, lever 183 is rod-shaped and relatively thin in the Y direction and relatively long in the Z direction. Lever 183 has a first end 183a, a first portion 183b, a second portion 183c, a third portion 183d, a second end 183e, a first shaft 183f, and a second shaft 183g.

[0098] In the state shown in FIG. 13 , i.e., when the pumps 15g and 15h are attached, the first end 183a is located closer to the other X-direction side X2 than the end of the slit 182a on one side Z1 in the Z-direction. The first portion 183b extends from the first end 183a toward the end of the slit 182a on one side Z1 in the Z-direction and is physically connected to the second portion 183c. The second portion 183c passes through the slit 182a and protrudes beyond the panel 182 on one side X1 in the X-direction. The second portion 183c extends toward the other Z-direction side Z2 beyond the panel 182 on one side X1 in the X-direction and is physically connected to the third portion 183d. The third portion 183d extends toward the other Z-direction side Z2 beyond the panel 182 on one side X1 in the X-direction and along the panel 182. The third portion 183d bends toward the panel 182 near the other Z2 end of the panel 182 in the Z direction, and reaches a second end 183e. The second end 183e fits into a hole 182b formed near the other Z2 end of the panel 182 in the Z direction. Hereinafter, the position of the lever 183 where the second end 183e fits into the hole 182b will also be referred to as the "lever mounting position."

[0099] The first shaft 183f protrudes from the lever 183 in both one Y direction Y1 and the other Y direction Y2 at a position in the first portion 183b closer to the first end 183a.

[0100] The second shaft 183g protrudes beyond the lever 183 in both one Y direction Y1 and the other Y direction Y2 at a location where the first portion 183b and the second portion 183c are physically connected.

[0101] A bearing 182c is provided at a position near the end of the slit 182a in one Z direction, Z1, on the other X2 side of the X direction from the panel 182. The bearing 182c supports the second shaft 183g rotatably around an axis along the Y direction (see arrow A21). This allows the lever 183 to be supported by the panel 182.

[0102] The claws 184a and 184b are provided on the other X2 side of the panel 182 in the Z direction, further from the slit 182a, near one end Y1 in the Y direction and near the other end Y2 in the Y direction. The claws 184a and 184b engage with the stoppers 116a and 116b when the pumps 15g and 15h are attached. This prevents the pumps 15g and 15h from coming off the housing 11 when the pumps 15g and 15h are attached.

[0103] Pawl movement mechanism 185 can be realized by a cam and a link, and is provided on the other X2 side of panel 182 in the X direction. When lever 183 is rotated by human force from the lever mounting position in one Z direction (see also arrow A21), pawls 184a and 184b are released from the engagement with stoppers 116a and 116b. This allows pumps 15g and 15h to be removed from housing 11.

[0104] According to the fixing structure of the pumps 15g, 15h, the operator rotates the lever 183 that protrudes from the center of the panel 182 in the Y direction. In response, the claws 184a, 184b on both sides of the pumps 15g, 15h in the Y direction engage with the stoppers 116a, 116b of the housing 11. Therefore, compared to when the claws on one side in the Y direction engage with the housing 11, the pumps 15g, 15h can be fixed to the housing 11 more stably. In other words, a user-friendly CDU 1 can be provided.

[0105] [Fixing structure of lever 183] As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, each of the pumps 15g and 15h further includes a fixing structure for the lever 183. As shown in FIG.

[0106] The lever 183 is supported by the panel 182 so as to be rotatable in the circumferential direction of the axis of the second shaft 183g indicated by the arrow A21 (see FIG. 13). A hole 183f parallel to the second shaft 183g is formed in the second end 183e of the lever 183.

[0107] A fixing pin 182d is supported around the hole 182b on the panel 182 via an attachment member 182c, which serves as part of the fixing structure of the lever 183. The fixing pin 182d is a so-called spring-loaded pin and includes a knob, a pin, and a spring. The pin is biased by the spring and protrudes and retracts from the attachment member 182c due to external force applied by a person. When the knob is pulled by a person, the pin retracts from the attachment member 182c against the biasing force of the spring. The pin is inserted into a hole 183f at the second end 183e. This prevents the lever 183 from separating from the panel 182. Furthermore, before removing the pumps 15g and 15h, a person can pull the knob to remove the pin from the hole 183f, allowing the lever 183 to rotate. The fixing structure of the lever 183 prevents the pumps 15g and 15h from easily coming off the housing 11. This makes the CDU1 easier to use.

[0108] [Guide rails 112b, 112c, handle 112d] 3, the CDU 1 has a groove 112a in a panel 112 of the housing 11. The groove 112a has a rectangular shape that is long in the X direction when viewed from above in the Y direction. The groove 112a is recessed from the panel 112 toward the other side Y2 of the Y direction. The groove 112a extends along the X direction between the end of the panel 112 on the other side X2 of the X direction and a position distant in the other side X2 of the X direction from the end on the one side X1 of the X direction.

[0109] Guide rails 112b and 112c are located on the surface of the recessed groove 112a facing one side Z1 in the Z direction and the other side Z2 in the Z direction. The guide rails 112b and 112c engage with guide rails (not shown) provided on the rack 9 (see FIG. 1), for example.

[0110] The CDU 1 is provided with a handle 112d in the recessed groove 112a. The handle 112d is supported in the recessed groove 112a so as to be rotatable around an axis along the X direction. When the CDU 1 is not being carried by an operator, the handle 112d does not protrude beyond the panel 112 in one direction Y1 in the Y direction, but is recessed beyond the panel 112 in the other direction Y2 in the Y direction. On the other hand, when the CDU 1 is being carried by an operator, the handle 112d rotates around the axis and protrudes beyond the panel 112 in one direction Y1 in the Y direction. This allows the operator to carry the CDU 1 by grasping the handle 112d.

[0111] 12, the CDU 1 has a recessed groove 113a in the panel 113 of the housing 11. The recessed groove 113a may have a shape that is roughly symmetrical to the recessed groove 112a in the Y direction. Therefore, a detailed description of the recessed groove 113a will be omitted.

[0112] Guide rails 113b and 113c similar to the guide rails 112b and 112c are positioned on the surface of the recessed groove 113a facing one side Z1 in the Z direction and the surface facing the other side Z2 in the Z direction.

[0113] The CDU 1 has a handle 113d in the recessed groove 113a, which is similar to the handle 112d. The handle 113d may have a shape that is roughly symmetrical to the handle 112d in the Y direction. Therefore, a detailed description of the handle 112d will be omitted.

[0114] When the CDU 1 is not being carried, the handles 112d, 113d remain in the recessed grooves 112a, 113a. Therefore, when the CDU 1 is stored in a rack 9, the handles 112d, 113d do not interfere with the rack 9. As a result, the CDU 1 can be easily stored in the rack 9. In other words, a user-friendly CDU 1 can be provided.

[0115] The embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the components disclosed in the above embodiments can be modified as appropriate. For example, some of the components shown in one embodiment may be added to the components of another embodiment, or some of the components shown in one embodiment may be deleted from the embodiment.

[0116] Furthermore, the drawings mainly show each component in a schematic manner to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure, and the thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown in the drawings may differ from the actual configuration due to the convenience of creating the drawings. Furthermore, the configuration of each component shown in the above embodiment is an example and is not particularly limited, and it goes without saying that various modifications are possible within a scope that does not substantially deviate from the effects of the present disclosure.

[0117] [Other variations] The operation unit 18 may be attached to the housing 11. However, this is not limiting, and the operation unit 18 may be openable and closable relative to the housing 11 to allow an operator to access the inside of the housing 11. In detail, an opening is formed in the panel 111 on one side Y1 in the Y direction from the openings 111a and 111b. The operation unit 18 can open and close the opening by rotating around a rotation axis provided on the periphery of this opening. Alternatively, the operation unit 18 may be movable in the X direction through the opening in the same manner as the pumps 15g and 15h, thereby opening and closing the opening.

[0118] [Note] The present technology can also employ the following configuration.

[0119] (1) a main body having a flow path continuous with each of a first opening and a second opening; a first cylindrical body extending in a first direction intersecting the first opening within the flow path and having a plurality of holes formed therein; a sensor for detecting a pressure inside the first cylindrical body; Equipped with One end of the first cylindrical body in the first direction is connected to the first opening, The sensor is disposed closer to the other end of the first cylindrical body than to the one end of the first cylindrical body.

[0120] (2) The main body is a first tubular member having the first opening, a bottom wall, and a semi-through hole formed between the first opening and the bottom wall; a second tubular member extending from a position between the first opening and the bottom wall in the first tubular member, the second tubular member having a through hole communicating with the second opening and the semi-through hole and the second opening; and The first cylindrical body is disposed in the semi-through hole, The flow path unit according to (1), wherein the sensor is attached to the bottom wall.

[0121] (3) The flow path unit according to (1) or (2), wherein the second opening faces the first cylindrical body in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0122] (4) The flow path unit according to (2) or (3), wherein the second pipe member extends from the position in a second direction that intersects with the first direction.

[0123] (5) The flow path unit according to any one of (2) to (4), further comprising a support portion that supports the first cylindrical body at a position spaced apart from the first pipe material.

[0124] (6) The support portion has a second cylindrical body positioned between the bottom wall and an end of the first cylindrical body, the second cylindrical body is attached to the bottom wall and contacts the inner surface of the first cylindrical body; The flow path unit according to (4) or (5), wherein the sensor has a pressure receiving portion inside the second cylindrical body.

[0125] (7) The flow path unit according to (5) or (6), wherein the second cylindrical body has a portion whose inner diameter increases as the portion is positioned further away from the bottom wall.

[0126] (8) A refrigerant circulation device including the flow path unit according to any one of (1) to (7) at an inlet of the refrigerant. [Explanation of symbols]

[0127] 1 Refrigerant circulation device 15a Flow path unit 151 Main Unit 151a First opening 151b Second opening 151c Channel 1511 First pipe material 1511a bottom wall 1511b Half-through hole 1512 Second pipe material 1512a Through hole 152 First cylinder 1524 hole 1521 End (one end) 153 Support part 1531 Second cylinder 17a Pressure sensor 171a Pressure receiving part

Claims

1. a main body having a flow path continuous with each of the first opening and the second opening; a first cylindrical body extending in a first direction intersecting the first opening within the flow path and having a plurality of holes formed therein; a sensor for detecting a pressure inside the first cylindrical body; Equipped with One end of the first cylindrical body in the first direction is connected to the first opening, The sensor is disposed closer to the other end of the first cylindrical body than to the one end of the first cylindrical body.

2. The body includes: a first tubular member having the first opening, a bottom wall, and a semi-through hole formed between the first opening and the bottom wall; a second tubular member extending from a position between the first opening and the bottom wall in the first tubular member, the second tubular member having a through hole communicating with the second opening and the semi-through hole and the second opening; and The first cylindrical body is disposed in the semi-through hole, The flow path unit according to claim 1 , wherein the sensor is attached to the bottom wall.

3. The flow path unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second opening faces the first cylindrical body in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

4. The flow path unit according to claim 2 , wherein the second pipe member extends from the position in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

5. The flow path unit according to claim 2 , further comprising a support portion that supports the first cylindrical body at a position spaced apart from the first pipe member.

6. the support portion includes a second cylindrical body positioned between the bottom wall and an end of the first cylindrical body; the second cylindrical body is attached to the bottom wall and contacts the inner surface of the first cylindrical body; The flow path unit according to claim 5 , wherein the sensor has a pressure receiving portion inside the second cylindrical body.

7. The flow path unit according to claim 6 , wherein the second cylindrical body has a portion whose inner diameter increases with increasing distance from the bottom wall.

8. A coolant circulation device comprising the flow path unit according to claim 1 or 2 at an inlet for the coolant.

Images