Heat exchangers and refrigerators

Abstract

This disclosure provides a heat exchanger and a refrigerator that can improve the heat exchange performance and extend the lifespan of the heat exchanger. [Solution] The refrigerator cooler 32 comprises a refrigerant conducting member 60 consisting of flat tubes formed at intervals from each other, an inlet-side header 66 extending in the vertical direction and connected substantially perpendicularly to the refrigerant conducting member 60, and an inlet-side pipe 68 that blows refrigerant toward the inlet-side header 66. The outlet 81 formed at the tip of the inlet-side pipe 68 is connected to a lower space 82 located below the lower end of the inlet-side conducting member 60A, which is a refrigerant conducting member 60 adjacent to the bottom plate 83 of the inlet-side header 66.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heat exchanger and a refrigerator.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a refrigeration cooler including a refrigerant conduction member composed of flat tubes formed at intervals from each other, an air flow path formed between the other flat tubes through which air flows, and fins provided in the air flow path.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides a heat exchanger and a refrigerator capable of improving the heat exchange performance and extending the service life of the heat exchanger.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The heat exchanger of the present disclosure includes a conduction member composed of flat tubes formed at intervals from each other, a header formed to extend in the vertical direction and connected to the conduction member substantially orthogonally, and an inlet - side pipe that blows refrigerant toward the header. The blowing portion formed at the tip of the inlet - side pipe is connected to point to a lower space located below the lower end of an inlet - side conduction member, which is the conduction member adjacent to the bottom of the header among the headers.

[0006] The refrigerator of this disclosure comprises a heat exchanger comprising: conductive members consisting of flattened pipes formed at intervals from each other; a header extending in the vertical direction and connected substantially perpendicularly to the conductive members; and an inlet pipe for blowing refrigerant toward the header, wherein the outlet formed at the tip of the inlet pipe is connected toward a lower space located below the lower end of the inlet conductive member, which is the conductive member adjacent to the bottom of the header. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] The heat exchanger and refrigerator in this disclosure can improve the heat exchange performance of the heat exchanger and extend the lifespan of the heat exchanger. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] A schematic cross-sectional view showing the general structure of the refrigerator in Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Refrigeration cycle diagram showing the refrigeration cycle of Embodiment 1 [Figure 3] Perspective view of the refrigerator cooler of Embodiment 1, viewed from the right side. [Figure 4] Perspective view of the refrigerator cooler of Embodiment 1, viewed from the left side. [Figure 5] Cross-sectional view showing the connection point between the inlet piping and the inlet header in Embodiment 1 [Figure 6] Cross-sectional view showing the connection point between the inlet piping and the inlet header in Embodiment 2 [Figure 7] Cross-sectional view showing the connection point between the inlet piping and the inlet header in Embodiment 2 [Figure 8] Cross-sectional view showing the connection point between the inlet piping and the inlet header in Embodiment 3 [Figure 9] Cross-sectional view showing the connection point between the inlet piping and the inlet header in Embodiment 4 [Figure 10] Cross-sectional view of the inlet side header in Embodiment 5 [Figure 11] Cross-sectional view showing the connection point between the inlet piping and the inlet header in Embodiment 6 [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] (Knowledge and other information that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time the inventors conceived of this disclosure, there was technology for a refrigerator cooler that included conductive members made of flattened tubes formed at intervals from each other, as described in Patent Document 1. However, in conventional technology, the connection point of the inlet piping to the header is not directed towards the space below the header. As a result, the refrigerant and the oil that functions as a lubricant for the compressor and circulates with the refrigerant tend to accumulate in the space below the header. The inventors discovered that this can lead to insufficient circulation of the refrigerant and oil, and in order to solve this problem, they have come to form the subject of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure provides a heat exchanger and a refrigerator that can improve the heat exchange performance and extend the lifespan of the heat exchanger.

[0010] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, unnecessary details may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. This is to avoid the following explanation becoming unnecessarily verbose and to facilitate understanding for those skilled in the art. The attached drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0011] (Embodiment 1) Embodiment 1 will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 5. [1-1. Structure] [1-1-1. Refrigerator configuration] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the refrigerator according to the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, the refrigerator 1 has a box-shaped main body 10. At two locations in the vertical direction of the main body 10, an upper partition plate 11 and a lower partition plate 12 are provided, dividing the inside of the main body 10 into three spaces. The upper space of the upper partition plate 11 is the refrigerator compartment 13, the space between the upper partition plate 11 and the lower partition plate 12 is the freezer compartment 14, and the lower space of the lower partition plate 12 is the vegetable compartment 15. Below the interior of the refrigerator compartment 13, a low-temperature compartment 16 that is colder than the refrigerator compartment 13 is provided. Inside the refrigerator compartment 13, a shelf plate 17 for placing food is provided. Inside the freezer compartment 14, an ice-making compartment `18` for storing ice is provided.

[0012] On the front surface of the refrigerator compartment 13, a rotary refrigerator door 20 is provided so as to be openable and closable. On the front surface of the freezer compartment 14, a freezer drawer door 21 is provided so as to be openable and closable. Inside the freezer drawer door 21, a freezer drawer case 22 for storing food is provided. At the opening on the front surface of the vegetable compartment 15, a vegetable compartment drawer door 23 is provided so as to be openable and closable. Inside the vegetable compartment drawer door 23, a vegetable compartment drawer case 24 for storing food is provided.

[0013] On the back side of the refrigerator compartment 13 of the refrigerator 1, a refrigeration cooling chamber 30 is provided. Above the refrigeration cooling chamber 30, a refrigerator compartment duct 31 extending above the refrigerator compartment 13 is connected. The refrigeration cooling chamber 30 houses a refrigeration cooler 32. The refrigeration cooler 32 is an example of a heat exchanger. The refrigeration cooler 32 is a microchannel-type cooler. A microchannel-type cooler is, for example, a cooler composed of a flat porous tube and fins. The flat porous tube is a flat tube in which a plurality of flow paths for the refrigerant to flow are formed inside. The details of the refrigeration cooler 32 will be described later. A refrigeration fan 33 is positioned above the refrigeration cooler 32 in the refrigeration cooling chamber 30. For example, a centrifugal fan is used for the refrigeration fan 33. A centrifugal fan is a fan that draws in cold air that has passed through the refrigeration cooler 32 from the central part of one side of the axial direction of the rotating blades and blows it out in a centrifugal direction. The centrifugal fan also draws in cold air from the rear of the refrigeration cooling chamber 30 and blows it out in a centrifugal direction. By using a centrifugal fan, sufficient airflow can be ensured even with a thin duct.

[0014] In this embodiment, the centrifugal fan is configured to draw in cold air from the rear of the refrigerated cooling chamber 30, but it may also be configured to draw in cold air from the front of the refrigerated cooling chamber 30. Furthermore, the refrigeration fan 33 may be, for example, an axial fan. The axial fan is positioned at an angle so that the outlet faces upward, in order to efficiently blow the cold air cooled by the refrigeration cooler 32 into the refrigerator compartment 13. Using an axial fan makes it easier to discharge cold air downwards as well.

[0015] Frost accumulating on the refrigerator cooler 32 can be removed by the air inside the refrigerator compartment. In this case, it is preferable to drive the refrigerator fan 33 without circulating refrigerant through the refrigerator cooler 32.

[0016] Although not shown in the diagram, the refrigerator duct 31 is connected to the casing on the outlet side of the refrigerator fan 33, and the refrigerator duct 31 is tapered, with its width gradually increasing towards the top. The refrigerator compartment duct 31 is equipped with branch ducts that extend to the left and right along its length, and a refrigerator compartment damper is provided in the middle of the refrigerator compartment duct 31, which is configured to switch between blowing or stopping the blowing of cold air cooled by the refrigerator cooler 32 into the refrigerator compartment duct 31 by opening and closing the damper.

[0017] A cooling chamber 40 for freezing is provided on the rear side of the freezer compartment 14 of the refrigerator 1. A cooling unit 41 for freezing is housed in the cooling chamber 40. The refrigeration cooler 41 is, for example, a fin-tube type cooler. A fin-tube type cooler is, for example, a cooler composed of a cylindrical pipe and flat fins. Above the refrigeration cooler 41, a refrigeration fan 42 is positioned to send the cold air cooled by the refrigeration cooler 41 into the freezer compartment 14. Fin-tube coolers, compared to microchannel coolers, have a larger distance between the refrigerant piping and the fin tips, resulting in poorer heat conduction efficiency and a slower temperature drop at the fin tips. This suppresses clogging due to frost formation and reduces the number of times the heater needs to be powered for defrosting. Consequently, power consumption can be reduced.

[0018] For example, an axial fan is used for the refrigeration fan 42. The axial fan is positioned at an angle so that the outlet faces upward, in order to efficiently blow the cold air cooled by the refrigeration cooler 41 into the freezer compartment 14. A refrigeration outlet 43 is formed at the rear of the freezer compartment 14. The cooling fan 42 may be, for example, a centrifugal fan. Below the refrigeration cooler 41, a glass tube heater 44 is positioned to remove frost that has accumulated on the refrigeration cooler 41. Alternatively, instead of using the glass tube heater 44, a pipe heater that directly heats the refrigeration cooler 41 may be used to remove frost that has accumulated on the cooler 41.

[0019] A dew tray 37 for freezing is positioned below the refrigerating cooler 32. A dew tray 46 for freezing is positioned below the freezing cooler 41. An evaporation tray 47 is located at the lower rear of the vegetable compartment 15. A refrigeration drain pipe 38 is connected to the refrigeration drip tray 37. A freezer drain pipe 48 is connected to the freezer drip tray 46. The lower ends of the refrigeration drain pipe 38 and the freezer drain pipe 48 extend through the upper partition plate 11 and the lower partition plate 12, respectively, to the vicinity of the top of the evaporation tray 47. This configuration allows the condensate accumulated in the refrigerator condensate tray 37 and the freezer condensate tray 46 to be sent to the evaporation tray 47 via the refrigerator drain pipe 38 and the freezer drain pipe 48, where the condensate is evaporated. A compressor 50 is installed at the upper rear of the main unit.

[0020] [1-1-2. Configuration of the Refrigeration Cycle] Next, we will explain the refrigeration cycle configuration of refrigerator 1. Figure 2 is a refrigeration cycle diagram showing the refrigeration cycle of refrigerator 1. As shown in Figure 2, the refrigerator 1 is configured by connecting a compressor 50, a condenser 51, a switching valve 52, a refrigeration pressure reducing means 53, a refrigeration cooler 32, a refrigeration return pipe 55a, a freezing pressure reducing means 54, a freezing cooler 41, and a freezing return pipe 55b with a refrigerant return pipe 55. A refrigeration capillary tube is provided as the refrigeration pressure reducing means 53, and a freezing capillary tube is provided as the freezing pressure reducing means 54. The refrigeration pressure reducing means 53 and the refrigeration cooler 32, and the freezing pressure reducing means 54 and the freezing cooler 41 are connected in parallel to each other via a switching valve 52.

[0021] [1-1-3. Configuration of a refrigerated cooler] Next, we will describe the configuration of the refrigeration cooler 32 installed in refrigerator 1. Figure 3 is a perspective view from the right showing the refrigerator cooler 32 of Embodiment 1. Figure 4 is a perspective view from the left showing the refrigerator cooler 32 of Embodiment 1.

[0022] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the refrigerator cooler 32 is equipped with a refrigerant conducting member 60 through which the refrigerant flows. The refrigerant conducting member 60 is composed of a flat, porous tube in which a plurality of substantially rectangular passages are arranged in a continuous pattern. The refrigerant conducting member 60 corresponds to an example of a conducting member. The refrigerant conductive member 60 is formed in a meandering shape and comprises a plurality of flattened pipes 61 formed substantially parallel to each other at predetermined intervals in the vertical direction, and a curved portion 62 connecting the ends of each of these flattened pipes 61. In this embodiment, the flattened tube 61 is composed of four sections between the headers, which will be described later. The number of flattened tubes 61 is not limited to this and can be set arbitrarily. Alternatively, each flattened tube 61 and the curved section 62 may be integrated, and a single flattened tube 61 may be meandered to form the section between the headers.

[0023] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the flattened pipe 61 and the curved section 62 are divided vertically into three upper regions 63, a middle region 64, and a lower region 65. In this embodiment, the area is divided into three regions in the vertical direction, but it may also be divided into two regions or four or more regions in the vertical direction.

[0024] At one end of the outermost flattened pipe 61, an inlet header 66 and an outlet header 67 are provided, respectively, extending vertically. The inlet header 66 and the outlet header 67 are, for example, made of circular pipes. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the inlet header 66 and outlet header 67 are mounted so as not to protrude from the end face of the flattened pipe 61 in the depth direction (front-to-back direction). The inlet header 66 is connected to the flattened pipe 61 via a bent portion 61a formed by bending the end of the flattened pipe 61, and the outlet header 67 is connected to the flattened pipe 61 via a bent portion 61a formed by bending the end of the flattened pipe 61.

[0025] By arranging the inlet header 66 and outlet header 67 in this manner, the end faces of the inlet header 66 and outlet header 67 are flush with the outer surface of the flat pipe 61 of the refrigerant conductive member 60, and the sides of the inlet header 66 and outlet header 67 are positioned so as not to protrude beyond the thickness of the flat pipe 61. This allows for a reduction in the thickness of the refrigerator cooler 32, and when the refrigerator cooler 32 is housed inside the refrigerator cooling chamber 30, the internal space of the refrigerator duct 31 can be reduced. As a result, the internal space of the refrigerator 13 can be increased.

[0026] Furthermore, an inlet-side pipe 68 is connected to the side of the inlet-side header 66 at a height corresponding to the lower region 65. Specifically, the inlet-side pipe 68 is connected to the outermost side of the inlet-side header 66 in the left-right direction. The inlet-side pipe 68 is formed to extend upward via a curved portion 68a that curves upward after extending in the left-right direction. The outlet side piping 69, which is located above the upper end of the upper region 63, is connected to the upper end surface of the outlet side header 67.

[0027] The inlet header 66 and outlet header 67 are positioned offset in the width direction (left-right direction) of the refrigerating cooler 32, with the inlet header 66 positioned near the flat pipe 61 and the outlet header 67 positioned further away from the flat pipe 61 than the inlet header 66, so that the inlet header 66 and outlet header 67 are arranged alternately. Alternatively, the outlet header 67 may be positioned near the flat pipe 61 and the inlet header 66 positioned further away from the flat pipe 61 than the outlet header 67. In this case, the inlet piping 68 may be connected to the side of the inlet header 66 that faces the rear of the refrigerator compartment 13 and is at a height corresponding to the lower region 65. Specifically, the inlet piping 68 may be connected to the side of the inlet header 66 in the direction toward the flat pipe 61 to which the outlet header 67 is connected. Furthermore, it is preferable that the inlet piping 68 is connected substantially parallel to the depth direction (front-to-back direction) of the refrigeration cooler 32.

[0028] The outlet header 67 may be formed to be taller than the height dimension of the inlet header 66. The outlet piping 69 may be connected to the side of the outlet header 67 that faces forward of the refrigerator compartment 13 and is located above the upper end of the upper region 63. Specifically, the outlet piping 69 may be connected to the side of the outlet header 67 in the direction toward the flattened pipe 61 to which the inlet header 66 is connected. Furthermore, it is preferable that the outlet piping 69 is connected substantially parallel to the inlet piping 68. That is, the outlet piping 69 may be connected at a position above the upper end of the uppermost flattened pipe 61.

[0029] The inlet pipe 68 extends upward approximately parallel to the inlet header 66, and the outlet pipe 69 extends upward approximately parallel to the outlet header 67. The inlet pipe 68 and outlet pipe 69 have a smaller diameter than the inlet header 66 and outlet header 67, respectively. As mentioned above, by arranging the inlet pipe 68 and outlet pipe 69, the space required for arranging the inlet pipe 68 and outlet pipe 69 is reduced.

[0030] Furthermore, a refrigeration pressure reducing device 53 is connected to the inlet pipe 68, and a refrigeration return pipe 55a is connected to the outlet pipe 69. The refrigeration pressure reduction means 53 extends above the inlet header 66 and is then embedded in the rear insulation wall of the main body 10. The refrigeration return pipe 55a extends above the outlet header 67 and is then embedded in the rear insulation wall of the main body 10. Furthermore, the refrigeration depressurization means 53 and the refrigeration return pipe 55a are tightly connected within the rear insulated wall so as to exchange heat. Furthermore, there is no accumulator (gas-liquid separator) between the outlet pipe 69 and the refrigeration return pipe 55a connected downstream to prevent liquid refrigerant from flowing into the compressor 50.

[0031] In this embodiment, the refrigerant is configured to flow in from the lower part of the inlet-side header 66 and to flow out from the upper part of the outlet-side header 67. As a result, the flow of the refrigerant is parallel to the direction of airflow of the cold air. Here, parallel flow refers to the case where the direction of refrigerant flow and the direction of airflow of the cold air are the same. Furthermore, the inlet header 66 and the outlet header 67 may be provided at different ends of the flat pipe 61, respectively, so that the inlet header 66 and the outlet header 67 are positioned on both sides of the refrigerant conducting member 60. Also, the refrigerant inlet of the inlet header 66 may be provided at the top, and the refrigerant outlet of the outlet header 67 may be provided at the bottom.

[0032] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, a partition plate 70 is provided at a position corresponding to the boundary between the lower region 65 and the middle region 64 of the entrance-side header 66. The middle region 64 and the upper region 63 of the entrance-side header 66 are in communication with each other. A partition plate 71 is provided at a position corresponding to the boundary between the upper region 63 and the middle region 64 of the exit-side header 67, which blocks communication within the exit-side header 67. The middle region 64 and the lower region 65 of the exit-side header 67 are in communication with each other.

[0033] The refrigerant flowing in from the lower part of the inlet header 66 flows through the lower region 65 of the refrigerant conductive member 60 to the outlet header 67. The refrigerant that has flowed to the outlet header 67 flows into the middle region 64 of the refrigerant conductive member 60 and then to the inlet header 66, flows through the lower region 65 via the inlet header 66, and then flows out from the upper part of the outlet header 67. In other words, the refrigerant that flows into the inlet header 66 flows sequentially through the lower region 65, middle region 64, and upper region 63 of the flattened pipe 61 and reaches the outlet header 67 in series. Here, each flattened pipe 61 is connected in series. This prevents the refrigerant from accumulating at the bottom due to gravity, even when the direction of cold airflow is aligned vertically. Consequently, the refrigerant can be distributed throughout the entire cooler, thus suppressing a decrease in heat exchange efficiency.

[0034] An air passage 72 is formed between each of the flattened pipes 61 of the refrigerant conductive member 60. Within the air passage 72 located between the outermost flat pipe 61 and the adjacent flat pipe 61, fins 73 are arranged in a continuous manner, inclined at a predetermined angle to the flat pipe 61 and bent in a zigzag shape. These fins 73 form a continuous air passage 72 with a roughly triangular cross-section. Furthermore, a series of air channels 72 with a rectangular cross-sectional shape may be formed. The air passage 72 is formed in the vertical direction so as to follow the vertical direction of the refrigeration cooling chamber 30.

[0035] Of the air passages, the air passage located between the inner flattened tubes 61 is designated as the cold storage material storage section 74. The cold storage material storage section 74 houses a cold storage material container containing the cold storage material. A retaining plate 75 is attached to the end of the flat pipe 61 opposite to the end to which the inlet header 66 and outlet header 67 are connected, connecting the upper region 63, middle region 64, and lower region 65 of the flat pipe 61. The retaining plates 75 fix each flattened tube 61 and hold them in place so that they do not deform in the front-to-back or up-and-down direction. In addition, a bottom plate member is attached to the underside of the flattened tube 61, which closes off a portion of the bottom of the cold storage material storage section 74. This creates a storage section 74 for the cold storage material, surrounded by the stopper plate 75, the bottom plate member, and the flattened tube 61, and the cold storage material container is inserted into the gap between the flattened tubes 61.

[0036] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the connection point between the inlet-side piping 68 and the inlet-side header 66 in Embodiment 1.

[0037] A joint member 80 is provided at the lower part of the inlet header 66 to which the inlet piping 68 is connected. The refrigerant conduction member 60 to which the joint member 80 is provided is referred to as the inlet conduction member 60A. The inlet conduction member 60A, and other refrigerant conduction members 60 (not shown), similarly have multiple slits 79 on the inside. The refrigerant conduction member 60 thus has multiple pipes inside, and the refrigerant is divided and flows through each of them.

[0038] The joint member 80 is provided on the opposite side of the inlet-side header 66, facing the inlet-side conductive member 60A. The joint member 80 is made of the same aluminum alloy as the inlet-side header 66. The joint member 80 is a cylindrical member formed with one end on the inlet-side conductive member 60A side protruding from the inner wall of the inlet-side header 66 and the other end further protruding from the outer wall of the inlet-side header 66. The joint member 80 is provided by welding it to the opening 80A made in the inlet-side header 66.

[0039] A discharge section 81, which extends linearly from the curved section 68a, is inserted through the joint member 80. A sealing seal 84 is wrapped around the other end of the joint member 80 to close the gap with the discharge section 81. The sealing seal 84 is made of a heat-shrinkable seal, for example, made of a resin that shrinks with heat. Since the joint member 80 is made of aluminum alloy and the inlet pipe 68 is made of copper, moisture contamination can cause corrosion, but the sealing seal 84 can suppress corrosion.

[0040] The joint member 80 and the discharge section 81 are provided substantially perpendicular to the vertical direction corresponding to the extending direction of the inlet-side header 66. The joint member 80 and the discharge section 81 are substantially parallel to the extending direction of the inlet-side conductive member 60A.

[0041] A lower space 82 is formed below the extension line L1 of the lower end of the inlet side conductive member 60A of the inlet side header 66. The lower space 82 is composed of a bottom plate 83 that constitutes the bottom of the inlet side header 66 and an inner wall. The bottom plate 83 corresponds to an example of a bottom. The lower ends of the joint member 80 and the outlet 81 are positioned below the extension line L1, and a portion of the joint member 80 is included in the lower space 82.

[0042] [1-2. Operation] The operation of refrigerator 1, configured as described above, will be explained below. First, the compressor 50 is driven to send the refrigerant to the condenser 51, and by switching the switching valve, the refrigerant is sent to either the refrigeration cooler 32 or the freezing cooler 41.

[0043] The refrigerant sent to the refrigerator cooler 32 flows in through the inlet header 66 of the refrigerant conduction member 60 and flows through the interior of the lower region 65. The refrigerant that flows to the outlet header 67 flows through the middle region 64 via the outlet header 67, is sent to the inlet header 66, and flows through the upper region 63 via the inlet header 66. The refrigerant that has flowed through the upper region 63 flows out from the outlet header 67 and is returned to the compressor 50.

[0044] With refrigerant flowing inside the refrigerant conductive member 60, the refrigeration fan 33 is driven, causing the air inside the refrigerator compartment 13 to flow from the bottom to the top of the refrigerator compartment duct 31, passing through the air passage 72 of the refrigeration cooler 32. In other words, the direction of airflow of the cold air passing through the refrigeration cooler 32 is from the bottom to the top of the refrigeration cooler 32. As a result, the air inside the refrigerator compartment 13 is cooled by exchanging heat with the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant conductive member 60.

[0045] The refrigerant sent to the refrigeration cooler 41 exchanges heat with the air inside the refrigeration cooling chamber 40, which flows from the bottom to the top, by driving the refrigeration fan 42, and the air cooled by the refrigerant is returned to the freezer chamber 14.

[0046] Also, referring to Figure 5, a portion of the refrigerant blown out from the outlet 81 and flowing into the inlet-side header 66 from the joint member 80 hits the wall of the lower space 82. This refrigerant blows up the refrigerant accumulated in the lower space 82 and the lubricating oil for the compressor 50. This refrigerant is blown up to the upper part of the inside of the inlet-side header 66 and is divided into the pipes separated by the slit 79 of the inlet-side conductive member 60A.

[0047] [1-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, the refrigerator cooler 32 of this embodiment comprises a refrigerant conducting member 60 consisting of flattened pipes formed at intervals from each other, an inlet-side header 66 extending in the vertical direction and connected substantially perpendicularly to the refrigerant conducting member 60, and an inlet-side pipe 68 that blows refrigerant toward the inlet-side header 66. The outlet 81 formed at the tip of the inlet-side pipe 68 is connected to a lower space 82 located below the lower end of the inlet-side conducting member 60A, which is the refrigerant conducting member 60 adjacent to the bottom plate 83 of the inlet-side header 66. In this configuration, the refrigerant and oil in the bottom plate 83 of the lower space 82 are blown upward into the interior of the inlet-side header 66 by the refrigerant blown out from the outlet 81 and flow into the inlet-side conductive member 60A. Therefore, the cooling performance of the refrigerator cooler 32 by heat exchange can be improved and its lifespan can be extended.

[0048] Furthermore, the discharge section 81 is connected approximately perpendicular to the direction in which the inlet-side header 66 extends. With this configuration, the refrigerant flows through the slit 79 on the upper side of the inlet-side conductive member 60A, resulting in good refrigerant distribution.

[0049] Furthermore, the discharge section 81 is connected to the side opposite to the side to which the inlet-side conductive member 60A of the inlet-side header 66 is connected, and at least a portion of the discharge section 81 is located below the lower end of the inlet-side conductive member 60A. With this configuration, a portion of the refrigerant blown out from the outlet 81 flows directly into the lower space 82, making it difficult for refrigerant or oil to accumulate in the lower space 82.

[0050] Furthermore, the inlet side header 66 is equipped with a joint member 80 inserted through the opening 80A, and the discharge section 81 is connected to the joint member 80. The inlet side piping 68, the inlet side header 66, and the joint member 80 are made of different materials, and the gap between the inlet side piping 68 and the joint member 80 is sealed by a sealing seal 84. This configuration makes it possible to prevent corrosion of the inlet pipe 68 and the joint member 80 through moisture.

[0051] As described above, the refrigerator 1 of this embodiment is equipped with a refrigerating cooler 32, the refrigerating cooler 32 is equipped with a refrigerant conducting member 60 consisting of flat pipes formed at intervals from each other, an inlet side header 66 that extends in the vertical direction and is connected substantially perpendicularly to the refrigerant conducting member 60, and an inlet side pipe 68 that blows refrigerant toward the inlet side header 66, the outlet 81 formed at the tip of the inlet side pipe 68 is connected toward a lower space 82 located below the lower end of the inlet side conducting member 60A, which is the refrigerant conducting member 60 adjacent to the bottom plate 83 of the inlet side header 66. This configuration produces the same effects and functions as described above.

[0052] (Embodiment 2) [2-1. Structure] Figures 6 and 7 are cross-sectional views showing the connection point between the inlet-side piping 68 and the inlet-side header 66 in Embodiment 2. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken from the extending direction of the inlet-side conductive member 60A, and Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken from a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the inlet-side conductive member 60A. The configuration of Embodiment 2 differs from that of Embodiment 1 in that the joint member 80 of Embodiment 1 is positioned rotated by 90 degrees around the extending direction of the inlet header 66. In Embodiment 2, the inlet piping 68 is positioned in the gap between the inlet header 68 and the outlet header 67. This makes it possible to reduce the width of the refrigeration cooler 32 in the left-right direction compared to Embodiment 1. The inlet piping 68 may also be provided on the opposite side from the outlet header 67. The joint member 80 and the discharge section 81 are provided substantially perpendicular to the vertical direction corresponding to the extending direction of the inlet-side header 66. The joint member 80 and the discharge section 81 are substantially perpendicular to the extending direction of the inlet-side conductive member 60A.

[0053] [2-2. Mechanism of Action and Effects] In Embodiment 2, the discharge section 81 is connected substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the inlet-side header 66 extends, and is connected substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the inlet-side conductive member 60A extends. With this configuration, by making the direction of refrigerant inflow from the inlet pipe 68 perpendicular to the direction of refrigerant inflow into the inlet conductive member 60A, direct inflow from the inlet pipe 68 to the inlet conductive member 60A is more effectively prevented, thereby generating a strong upward airflow from the lower space 82 and blowing the refrigerant up to the top of the inlet conductive member 60A, resulting in better flow separation. Furthermore, by installing the inlet pipe 68 perpendicular to the direction of refrigerant travel corresponding to the extending direction of the refrigerant conductive member 60, the overall longitudinal length of the refrigerator cooler 32 can be shortened. Therefore, the cooling performance by heat exchange of the refrigerator cooler 32 can be improved, and the interior of the refrigerator 1 can be utilized more freely.

[0054] (Embodiment 3) [3-1. Structure] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the connection point between the inlet-side piping 68 and the inlet-side header 66 in Embodiment 3. In Embodiment 3, a bottom plate 83 is formed at the lower end of the inlet-side header 66, and the discharge section 81 is inserted from the bottom plate 83 toward the lower space 82. Unlike in Embodiment 1, the curved portion 68a of the inlet pipe 68 is formed by curving it 180 degrees. The inlet-side header 66 has an opening 80A in the bottom plate 83. The outlet section 81 is connected to the inlet-side header 66 by a joint member 80 that penetrates the bottom plate 83. That is, the joint member 80 is located in the lower space 82. Thus, in Embodiment 3, the discharge unit 81 blows the refrigerant from bottom to top, towards the space below 82.

[0055] [3-2. Action and Effects] In Embodiment 3, the discharge section 81 is connected to the bottom plate 83 of the inlet-side header 66. With this configuration, the refrigerant blown out from the outlet 81 blows up the refrigerant and oil accumulated in the lower space 82. Therefore, the refrigerant flow is properly divided, and refrigerant and oil are less likely to accumulate in the lower space 82.

[0056] (Embodiment 4) [4-1. Structure] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the connection point between the inlet pipe 68 and the inlet header 66 in Embodiment 4. The joint member 80 is provided on the same side as the inlet-side conductive member 60A with respect to the inlet-side header 66. The joint member 80 is provided on the wall portion of the inlet-side header 66 that constitutes the lower space 82, and the upper end of the joint member 80 is provided below the extension line L1. The discharge section 81 is provided parallel to the inlet-side conductive member 60A, and although not shown, the curved section 68a is formed by curving it at 90 degrees, similar to Embodiment 1.

[0057] [4-2. Action and Effects] In Embodiment 4, the discharge section 81 is connected to the same side as the inlet-side conductive member 60A of the inlet-side header 66, and the discharge section 81 is positioned below the inlet-side conductive member 60A. In this configuration, the refrigerant blown out from the outlet 81 is blown directly into the lower space 82, and the blown-out refrigerant hits the inner wall of the lower space 82, generating an upward airflow that blows up any accumulated refrigerant or oil. As a result, the refrigerant flow is properly divided, and refrigerant or oil is less likely to accumulate in the lower space 82.

[0058] (Embodiment 5) [5-1. Structure] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the inlet-side header 66 in Embodiment 4. In Embodiments 1-4, the bottom portion constituting the lower space 82 is a bottom plate 83, but in Embodiment 5, it is a partition plate 70. The other configurations are the same as in Embodiment 1. The partition plate 70 corresponds to an example of the bottom.

[0059] [5-2. Action and Effects] In Embodiment 5, a partition plate 70 is provided inside the inlet-side header 66, the discharge section 81 is positioned opposite to the side to which the inlet-side conductive member 60A is connected, and at least a portion of the discharge section 81 is positioned below the lower end of the inlet-side conductive member 60A, which is located above the partition plate 70. With this configuration, the refrigerant and oil in the partition plate 70 of the lower space 82 are blown upward into the interior of the inlet-side header 66 by the refrigerant blown out from the outlet 81 and flow into the inlet-side conductive member 60A. Therefore, the cooling performance of the refrigerator cooler 32 by heat exchange can be improved and its lifespan can be extended.

[0060] (Embodiment 6) [6-1. Structure] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the connection point between the inlet pipe 68 and the inlet header 66 in Embodiment 6. In Embodiment 6, the joint member 80 and the outlet portion 81 are installed at an angle, facing downward into the space 82. Unlike in Embodiment 1, the curved portion 68a is formed with a more obtuse angle. The extension line L2 from the lower end of the discharge portion 81 intersects with the inner wall of the inlet-side header 66 of the lower space 82.

[0061] [6-2. Action and Effects] In Embodiment 6, the discharge section 81 is positioned opposite to the side to which the inlet-side conductive member 60A is connected, and the extension line L2 from the lower end of the discharge section 81 intersects with the inner wall of the inlet-side header 66 in the lower space 82. This configuration suppresses the curvature of the inlet piping 68, thereby shortening the overall longitudinal length of the refrigerator cooler 32. As a result, the cooling performance of the refrigerator cooler 32 through heat exchange can be improved, and the interior of the refrigerator 1 can be utilized more freely.

[0062] As described above, Embodiments 1-6 have been explained as examples of the technology disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited thereto and can be applied to embodiments that have been modified, replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, it is possible to create new embodiments by combining the components described in Embodiments 1-6 above.

[0063] (Note) Based on the above description of embodiments, the following technologies are disclosed.

[0064] (Technology 1) A heat exchanger comprising conductive members consisting of flattened pipes formed at intervals from each other, a header extending in the vertical direction and connected substantially perpendicularly to the conductive members, and an inlet pipe for blowing refrigerant toward the header, wherein a discharge section formed at the tip of the inlet pipe is connected toward a lower space located below the lower end of the inlet conductive member, which is the conductive member adjacent to the bottom of the header. According to this design, the refrigerant and oil at the bottom of the lower space are blown upwards into the header by the refrigerant blown out from the outlet and flow into the inlet-side conductive member. Therefore, the cooling performance of the heat exchanger can be improved and its lifespan can be extended.

[0065] (Technology 2) The heat exchanger according to Technical Reference 1, wherein the discharge section is connected substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the header extends. According to this, the refrigerant flows to the upper side of the inlet-side conductive member, resulting in good refrigerant distribution.

[0066] (Technology 3) The heat exchanger according to Technical Reference 2, wherein the discharge portion is connected to the side of the header opposite to the side to which the inlet-side conductive member is connected, and at least a portion of the discharge portion is located below the lower end of the inlet-side conductive member. According to this, a portion of the refrigerant blown out from the outlet flows directly into the space below, making it less likely for refrigerant or oil to accumulate in the space below.

[0067] (Technology 4) The heat exchanger according to Technical Reference 2, wherein the discharge portion is connected substantially perpendicular to the extending direction of the conductive member. According to this method, by making the direction of refrigerant inflow from the inlet piping perpendicular to the direction of refrigerant inflow into the inlet conductive member, direct inflow from the inlet piping to the inlet conductive member is more effectively prevented. This generates a strong upward airflow from the lower space, blowing the refrigerant up to the top of the inlet conductive member, thereby improving flow separation. Furthermore, by installing the inlet piping perpendicular to the direction of refrigerant travel corresponding to the extending direction of the conductive member, the overall longitudinal length of the heat exchanger can be shortened. Thus, the cooling performance of the heat exchanger can be improved.

[0068] (Technology 5) The aforementioned outlet is connected to the bottom of the header, and the heat exchanger is as described in Technical 1. According to this design, the refrigerant blown out from the outlet blows up any refrigerant or oil accumulated in the space below. Therefore, the refrigerant flow is properly diverted, and refrigerant or oil is less likely to accumulate in the space below.

[0069] (Technology 6) The heat exchanger according to Technology 2, wherein the discharge section is connected to the same side of the header to which the inlet-side conductive member is connected, and the discharge section is positioned below the inlet-side conductive member. According to this design, the refrigerant blown from the outlet is directly released into the space below, and when the blown-out refrigerant hits the inner wall of the space below the header, an upward airflow is generated, blowing up any accumulated refrigerant or oil. As a result, the refrigerant flow is properly diverted, and refrigerant or oil is less likely to accumulate in the space below.

[0070] (Technology 7) The heat exchanger according to Technical 1, wherein a partition plate is provided inside the header, the discharge section is positioned opposite to the side to which the inlet-side conductive member is connected, and at least a portion of the discharge section is provided below the lower end of the inlet-side conductive member which is located above the partition plate. According to this design, the refrigerant and oil in the partition plate in the lower space are blown upwards into the inside of the header by the refrigerant blown out from the outlet and flow into the inlet side conductive member. Therefore, the cooling performance of the heat exchanger can be improved and its lifespan can be extended.

[0071] (Technology 8) The heat exchanger according to Technical 1, wherein the discharge section is positioned opposite to the side to which the inlet-side conductive member is connected, and the extension line from the lower end of the discharge section intersects with the inner wall of the header in the lower space. According to this method, the curvature of the inlet piping can be suppressed, and the overall longitudinal length of the heat exchanger can be shortened.

[0072] (Technology 9) A heat exchanger according to any one of the Art 1 to 8, comprising a joint member inserted through an opening in the header, the discharge section being connected to the joint member, the material of the inlet piping and the header and the joint member being different, and the gap between the inlet piping and the joint member being sealed by a sealing seal. This configuration helps to prevent corrosion of the inlet piping and joint members due to moisture.

[0073] (Technology 10) A refrigerator equipped with a heat exchanger, comprising conductive members consisting of flattened pipes formed at intervals from each other, a header extending in the vertical direction and connected substantially perpendicularly to the conductive members, and an inlet pipe for blowing refrigerant toward the header, wherein the outlet formed at the tip of the inlet pipe is connected toward the lower space located below the lower end of the inlet conductive member, which is the conductive member adjacent to the bottom of the header. According to this, it produces the same effects and benefits as Technology 1. [Industrial applicability]

[0074] This disclosure is suitably applicable to heat exchangers using refrigerants. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0075] 1. Refrigerator 10 Main Unit 11 Upper partition plate 12 Lower partition plate 13 Refrigerator 14 Freezer 15. Vegetable compartment 16 Cold room 17 shelves 18 Ice maker 20 Refrigerator door 30 Refrigerated Cooling Chamber 31 Refrigerator duct 32 Refrigerator Cooler 33 Refrigerator fan 35 Refrigerated air outlet 38 Refrigerator drain pipe 40 Refrigeration cooling room 41 Refrigeration cooler 42 Refrigeration fan 43 Refrigeration outlet 50 Compressors 51 Condenser 60 Refrigerant conductive member (conductive member) 60A Inlet side conductive member 61 Flat tube 62 Curved Section 63 Upper area 64 Chubu region 65 Lower area 66 Entrance side header 67 Exit side header 68 Inlet side piping 68a Curved section 69 Outlet side piping 70. Partition plate (bottom) 71 Partition Plate 72 Airflow channels 73 Fin 74. Storage compartment for cold storage material 75 Stopper plate 76 Bottom plate member 77 Drainage section 78 Engaging piece 79 Slits 80 Joint Members 80A aperture 81 Outlet 82 Downward space 83 Bottom plate (bottom) 84 Sealing seal

Claims

1. A conductive member consisting of flattened tubes formed at intervals from each other, A header is formed extending in the vertical direction and connected substantially perpendicularly to the conductive member, It comprises an inlet pipe that blows refrigerant toward the header, The discharge section formed at the tip of the inlet-side piping is Of the headers, the following is connected to the lower space located below the lower end of the inlet-side conductive member, which is the conductive member adjacent to the bottom of the header: heat exchanger.

2. The aforementioned discharge section is connected substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the header extends. The heat exchanger according to claim 1.

3. The discharge portion is connected to the side of the header opposite to the side to which the inlet-side conductive member is connected, and at least a portion of the discharge portion is located below the lower end of the inlet-side conductive member. The heat exchanger according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned discharge portion is connected substantially perpendicular to the extending direction of the conductive member. The heat exchanger according to claim 2.

5. The aforementioned outlet is connected to the bottom of the header, The heat exchanger according to claim 1.

6. The aforementioned discharge section is connected to the same side as the inlet-side conductive member of the header to which it is connected. The aforementioned discharge section is positioned below the aforementioned inlet-side conductive member. The heat exchanger according to claim 2.

7. A partition plate is provided inside the header. The aforementioned outlet is, The aforementioned inlet-side conductive member is positioned opposite to the side to which it is connected. At least a portion of the discharge section is located below the lower end of the inlet-side conductive member, which is located above the partition plate. The heat exchanger according to claim 1.

8. The aforementioned outlet is, The aforementioned inlet-side conductive member is positioned opposite to the side to which it is connected. The extension line from the lower end of the outlet intersects with the inner wall of the header in the lower space. The heat exchanger according to claim 1.

9. The header includes a joint member inserted through the opening, The aforementioned outlet is connected to the joint member, The materials of the inlet side piping, the header, and the joint member are made differently. The gap between the inlet pipe and the joint member is sealed by the sealing seal. A heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A conductive member consisting of flattened tubes formed at intervals from each other, A header is formed extending in the vertical direction and connected substantially perpendicularly to the conductive member, It comprises an inlet pipe that blows refrigerant toward the header, The discharge section formed at the tip of the inlet-side piping is A refrigerator equipped with a heat exchanger, which is connected to the header, and directed toward the lower space located below the lower end of the inlet-side conductive member, which is a conductive member adjacent to the bottom of the header.

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