Refrigerant circulation device

Abstract

To provide a refrigerant circulation system that prevents refrigerant from leaking out of the device from the inlet or outlet when the piping is removed. [Solution] The Coolant Distribution Unit (CDU) 100, which is a refrigerant circulation device, comprises a housing 9, a primary flow path 1, a secondary flow path 2, a heat exchanger 3, and a discharge path 12. The primary flow path is housed in the housing and connects a primary inlet 91A and a primary outlet 91B provided in the housing. The secondary flow path is housed in the housing and connects a secondary inlet 92A and a secondary outlet 92B provided in the housing. The heat exchanger is housed in the housing and connected to the primary flow path and the secondary flow path. The discharge path is housed in the housing and connects an outlet 10 provided in the housing to the primary flow path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerant circulation device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a refrigerant circulation device that cools a heat source by transferring heat received from a heat source such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) to a circulating refrigerant (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] The refrigerant circulation device described in Patent Document 1 has an internal flow path for primary cooling water and a flow path for secondary cooling water. The inlet and outlet of the primary cooling water and the inlet and outlet of the secondary cooling water are provided on the back surface of the refrigerant circulation device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In this type of refrigerant circulation device, pipes connected to the inlets and outlets may be fixed with clamps or the like. However, in such a case, when the clamp is removed and the pipe is removed from the inlet or outlet, there is a risk that the refrigerant such as external cooling water or internal cooling water in the flow path may leak out of the refrigerant circulation device from the inlet or outlet.

[0006] Therefore, it is expected to realize a refrigerant circulation device that overcomes the above problems and is less likely to leak refrigerant from the inlet or outlet to the outside of the device when the pipe is removed.

[0007] [[ID=四十七]] The present disclosure provides a refrigerant circulation device in which refrigerant is less likely to leak from the inlet or outlet to the outside of the device when the pipe is removed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A refrigerant circulation device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a housing, a primary flow path, a secondary flow path, a heat exchanger, and a discharge path. The primary flow path is housed in the housing and connects a primary inlet and a primary outlet provided in the housing. The secondary flow path is housed in the housing and connects a secondary inlet and a secondary outlet provided in the housing. The heat exchanger is housed in the housing and connected to the primary and secondary flow paths. The discharge path is housed in the housing and connects an outlet provided in the housing to the primary or secondary flow path. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] The refrigerant circulation device of this disclosure is designed to prevent refrigerant from leaking out of the device from the inlet or outlet when the piping is removed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a CDU according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the interior of a CDU according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a schematic configuration of the CDU according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic rear view of the CDU according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the rear of the CDU according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the rear of the CDU according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the schematic configuration of the CDU according to the first modified example. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the schematic configuration of the CDU according to the second modified example. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic rear view of the CDU according to the third modified example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] The embodiments for implementing the refrigerant circulation device according to this disclosure (hereinafter referred to as "embodiments") will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited by these embodiments. Furthermore, each embodiment can be combined as appropriate, provided that the processing content is not inconsistent. Also, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in each of the following embodiments, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0012] Furthermore, in the drawings referenced below, for the sake of clarity, mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z axis directions are sometimes defined, and a Cartesian coordinate system is shown with the positive Z axis pointing vertically upward.

[0013] (Embodiment) First, the configuration of the CDU100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the CDU100 according to the embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the interior of the CDU100 according to the embodiment. Note that "CDU" is an abbreviation for "Coolant Distribution Unit". The CDU100 is an example of a refrigerant circulation device.

[0014] The CDU100 controls the flow rate, temperature, water quality, or destination of the refrigerant supplied from the equipment. The CDU100 draws in primary refrigerant and pumps it to the outside. It also draws in secondary refrigerant and pumps it to the outside. Since the CDU100 does not have a pump for the primary refrigerant inside, the drawing in and pumping of primary refrigerant in the CDU100 is performed by an external pump.

[0015] The CDU100 performs heat exchange between a primary refrigerant and a secondary refrigerant. For example, refrigerants such as antifreeze and pure water can be used as the primary refrigerant and the secondary refrigerant. Examples of antifreeze that can be used as a refrigerant include ethylene glycol aqueous solution and propylene glycol aqueous solution. Note that the types of the primary refrigerant and the secondary refrigerant may be the same as or different from each other. Also, at least one of the primary refrigerant and the secondary refrigerant may be a gas refrigerant.

[0016] The CDU100 includes a primary flow path 1 (see FIG. 3), a secondary flow path (see FIG. 3), a heat exchanger 3, a pump unit 4, a tank 5, a control unit 6, a display operation unit 8, and a housing 9. The primary refrigerant flows through the primary flow path 1. The secondary refrigerant flows through the secondary flow path 2.

[0017] The heat exchanger 3 is connected to the primary flow path 1 and the secondary flow path 2. The primary refrigerant and the secondary refrigerant flow into the heat exchanger 3 and flow out from the heat exchanger 3. The heat exchanger 3 performs heat exchange between the primary refrigerant and the secondary refrigerant inside thereof. The heat exchange method of the heat exchanger 3 is, for example, a plate type.

[0018] The pump unit 4 is connected to the secondary flow path 2. The pump unit 4 has an internal flow path. When the pump unit 4 is driven, the secondary refrigerant is sucked into the internal flow path of the pump unit 4, and the secondary refrigerant is pumped from the internal flow path of the pump unit 4. Thereby, the secondary refrigerant circulates between the CDU100 and an external cold plate. The number of installed pump units 4 is not particularly limited. For example, the number of installed pump units 4 is three. That is, the CDU100 includes a plurality of pump units 4.

[0019] The tank 5 stores the refrigerant used as the secondary refrigerant. The tank 5 is connected to the secondary flow path 2. The tank 5 can supply the refrigerant to the secondary flow path 2.

[0020] The CDU100 includes a control unit 6. The control unit 6 is connected to sensors located within the CDU100, such as a temperature and humidity sensor, primary refrigerant temperature sensors 112 and 115 (see Figure 3), secondary refrigerant temperature sensors 212 and 214, a primary refrigerant flow sensor 114, and secondary refrigerant pressure sensors 211 and 215. The control unit 6 also controls the pump unit 4 and the valve 113.

[0021] The CDU100 includes a display and operation unit 8. The display and operation unit 8 is located on the front of the CDU100 and displays the system's operating status and the measured values ​​of each sensor. The display and operation unit 8 is, for example, a touch panel display.

[0022] The CDU100 comprises a housing 9. The housing 9 has a housing area 90. The housing 9 houses a primary flow path 1, a secondary flow path 2, a heat exchanger 3, a pump unit 4, a tank 5, a control unit 6, and a display and operation unit 8 in the housing area 90.

[0023] Next, the housing 9 of the CDU100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of the CDU100 according to the embodiment. Figure 4 is a schematic rear view of the CDU100 according to the embodiment.

[0024] The storage area 90 is approximately rectangular in shape when viewed from the Z-axis direction, with the X-axis direction as the longitudinal direction and the Y-axis direction as the transverse direction. That is, the storage area 90 extends in the directions of the X-axis and Y-axis directions, which intersect with each other, and has a longer dimension in the X-axis direction than in the Y-axis direction. The storage area 90 also has the Z-axis direction as the depth direction. The width (depth) of the storage area 90 in the Z-axis direction is smaller than the widths of the storage area 90 in the X-axis and Y-axis directions, respectively.

[0025] The enclosure 9 has multiple surfaces 91 to 96. These surfaces 91 to 96 surround the storage area 90. That is, the enclosure 9 has a storage area 90 that is surrounded by the multiple surfaces 91 to 96.

[0026] Surfaces 91 and 92 are arranged facing each other in the X-axis direction, with the housing area 90 in between. Surface 91 is located on one side in the X-axis direction (positive X-axis direction side). Surface 92 is located on the other side in the X-axis direction (negative X-axis direction side). In the following description, surface 91 may be referred to as the back surface 91 to distinguish it from the other surfaces that make up the housing 9.

[0027] Surfaces 93 and 94 are arranged facing each other in the Y-axis direction, with the accommodation area 90 in between. Surface 93 is positioned on one side in the Y-axis direction (positive Y-axis direction side). Surface 94 is positioned on the other side in the Y-axis direction (negative Y-axis direction side).

[0028] Surfaces 95 and 96 are positioned opposite each other in the Z-axis direction, with the housing area 90 in between. Surface 95 is positioned on one side in the Z-axis direction (positive Z-axis side). Surface 96 is positioned on the other side in the Z-axis direction (negative Z-axis side). In the following description, surface 96 may be referred to as the bottom surface 96.

[0029] Surface 96 is an example of a first surface located vertically below the heat exchanger 3, and surface 95 is an example of a second surface located opposite the first surface. Surfaces 91 to 94 are examples of multiple third surfaces connecting the first and second surfaces.

[0030] Next, the primary flow path 1 and secondary flow path 2 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Note that Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the primary flow path 1 and secondary flow path 2 of the CDU 100, and the arrangement of each component, such as the primary inlet 91A, primary outlet 91B, secondary inlet 92A, secondary outlet 92B, and discharge port 10, is not limited to the arrangement shown in Figure 3.

[0031] The primary flow path 1 is a flow path connecting the primary inlet 91A and the primary outlet 91B provided in the housing 9. The primary inlet 91A and the primary outlet 91B open to the rear surface 91 of the housing 9.

[0032] The primary channel 1 includes a main channel 11. The primary medium flowing in from the primary inlet 91A passes through the main channel 11 and flows out from the primary outlet 91B.

[0033] The main flow path 11 connects the primary inlet 91A and the primary outlet 91B via the heat exchanger 3. The main flow path 11 is equipped with, from upstream, a pressure sensor 111, a temperature sensor 112, a valve 113, the heat exchanger 3, a flow sensor 114, a temperature sensor 115, and a pressure sensor 116.

[0034] The pressure sensor 111 measures the pressure of the primary refrigerant flowing upstream of the primary flow path 1, specifically upstream of the heat exchanger 3 in the primary flow path 1. The temperature sensor 112 is located downstream of the pressure sensor 111 in the main flow path 11 and measures the temperature of the primary refrigerant flowing upstream of the primary flow path 1. The valve 113 is located downstream of the temperature sensor 112 in the main flow path 11 and controls the flow rate of the primary refrigerant flowing through the primary flow path 1. The valve 113 is, for example, a solenoid two-way valve, and its opening degree can be adjusted by the control unit 6.

[0035] The heat exchanger 3 is located downstream of the valve 113 in the main flow path 11.

[0036] The flow sensor 114 is located downstream of the heat exchanger 3 in the main flow path 11. The flow sensor 114 measures the flow rate of the primary refrigerant flowing downstream of the primary flow path 1, specifically downstream of the heat exchanger 3 in the primary flow path 1. The temperature sensor 115 is located downstream of the flow sensor 114 in the main flow path 11 and measures the temperature of the primary refrigerant flowing downstream of the primary flow path 1. The pressure sensor 116 is located downstream of the temperature sensor 115 in the main flow path 11 and measures the pressure of the primary refrigerant flowing downstream of the primary flow path 1.

[0037] The secondary flow path 2 is a flow path connecting the secondary inlet 92A and the secondary outlet 92B provided in the housing 9. The secondary inlet 92A and the secondary outlet 92B open to the rear surface 91 of the housing 9.

[0038] The secondary flow path 2 comprises a main flow path 21, a supply flow path 22, a first flow path 23, a second flow path 24, and a third flow path 25. The secondary medium flowing in from the secondary inlet 92A branches off into the first flow path 23, the second flow path 24, or the third flow path 25 in the main flow path 21, rejoins the main flow path 21, and then flows out from the secondary outlet 92B.

[0039] The main flow path 21 is equipped with, from upstream, a pressure sensor 211, a temperature sensor 212, a heat exchanger 3, a flow sensor 213, a temperature sensor 214, and a pressure sensor 215.

[0040] The pressure sensor 211 measures the pressure of the secondary refrigerant flowing upstream of the secondary flow path 2, specifically upstream of the heat exchanger 3 in the secondary flow path 2. The temperature sensor 212 is located downstream of the pressure sensor 211 in the main flow path 21 and measures the temperature of the secondary refrigerant flowing upstream of the secondary flow path 2.

[0041] The heat exchanger 3 is located downstream of the temperature sensor 212 in the main flow path 21.

[0042] The supply channel 22 merges with the main channel 21 downstream of the heat exchanger 3 and upstream of the branching point between the first channel 23 and the second channel 24. The supply channel 22 is connected to the tank 5.

[0043] The main flow path 21 branches into a first flow path 23 and a second flow path 24 downstream of the branching point with the supply flow path 22. The first flow path 23 is equipped with a pump 231 and a check valve 232 from the upstream side.

[0044] Pump 231 pumps the secondary refrigerant to the downstream side of the first flow path 23. Check valve 232 is located downstream of pump 231 in the first flow path 23 to prevent backflow of the secondary refrigerant flowing through the secondary flow path 2.

[0045] The second flow path 24 is equipped with a pump 241 and a check valve 242, starting from the upstream side.

[0046] Pump 241 pumps the secondary refrigerant to the downstream side of the second flow path 24. Check valve 242 is located downstream of pump 241 in the second flow path 24 to prevent backflow of the secondary refrigerant flowing through the secondary flow path 2.

[0047] The third channel 25 branches off from the second channel 24 at a position downstream of the branching point between the first channel 23 and the second channel 24. The third channel 25 is equipped with a pump 251 and a check valve 252 from the upstream side.

[0048] Pump 251 pumps the secondary refrigerant to the downstream side of the third flow path 25. Check valve 252 is located downstream of pump 251 in the third flow path 25 to prevent backflow of the secondary refrigerant flowing through the secondary flow path 2.

[0049] The third channel 25 merges with the second channel 24 downstream of the check valve 242 and downstream of the check valve 252. The first channel 23 and the second channel 24 merge at their downstream ends, that is, downstream of the check valve 232 and downstream of the merger point of the second channel 24 and the third channel 25, and are connected to the main channel 21.

[0050] The flow sensor 213 is located downstream of the heat exchanger 3 in the main flow path 21. The flow sensor 213 measures the flow rate of the secondary refrigerant flowing downstream of the secondary flow path 2, specifically downstream of the heat exchanger 3 in the secondary flow path 2. The flow sensor 213 is located downstream of the pumps 231, 241, and 251 in the secondary flow path 2 and measures the flow rate of the secondary refrigerant flowing downstream of the pumps 231, 241, and 251 in the secondary flow path 2. The temperature sensor 214 is located downstream of the flow sensor 213 in the main flow path 21 and measures the temperature of the secondary refrigerant flowing downstream of the secondary flow path 2. The pressure sensor 215 is located downstream of the temperature sensor 214 in the main flow path 21 and measures the pressure of the secondary refrigerant flowing downstream of the secondary flow path 2.

[0051] In the CDU100 configured as described above, the piping connected to the primary inlet 91A and primary outlet 91B may be fixed with clamps or the like. In such cases, if there is no path to discharge the primary refrigerant outside the housing 9 by branching off from the primary flow path 1, there is a risk that the primary refrigerant in the primary flow path 1 may leak out of the CDU100 through the primary inlet 91A or primary outlet 91B when the clamps are removed.

[0052] Therefore, the CDU100 according to this embodiment includes a discharge path 12 that branches off from the main flow path 11 of the primary flow path 1. The discharge path 12 connects the discharge port 10 provided in the housing 9 to the primary flow path 1.

[0053] With this configuration, by discharging the primary refrigerant from the discharge path 12, leakage of the primary refrigerant from the primary inlet 91A and primary outlet 91B when the clamp that secures the connection to the external flow path pipe is removed can be suppressed. In addition, when the internal pressure in the primary flow path 1 is high, discharging a portion of the primary refrigerant in the CDU 100 from the discharge path 12 can reduce the pressure in the primary flow path 1, thereby suppressing the ejection of the primary refrigerant from the primary inlet 91A and primary outlet 91B.

[0054] The discharge path 12 may have a first discharge path 121 and a second discharge path 122. The outlet 10 may include a first outlet 101 and a second outlet 102.

[0055] The first discharge path 121 connects the first outlet 101 and the primary flow path 1. The first discharge path 121 branches off from the primary inlet 91A in the primary flow path 1 and the heat exchanger 3, and communicates with the first outlet 101. Specifically, the first discharge path 121 branches off from the main flow path 11 at a position downstream of the pressure sensor 111 and upstream of the temperature sensor 112.

[0056] The second discharge path 122 connects the second outlet 102 to the primary flow path 1. The second discharge path 122 branches off from the primary flow path 1 at a position between the heat exchanger 3 and the primary outlet 91B, and communicates with the second outlet 102. Specifically, the second discharge path 122 branches off from the main flow path 11 at a position downstream of the temperature sensor 115 and upstream of the pressure sensor 211.

[0057] Thus, the CDU100 according to this embodiment, having a first discharge path 121 and a second discharge path 122, can more reliably discharge the primary refrigerant in the primary flow path 1 compared to having only one of the first or second discharge paths 121, thus reducing the likelihood of primary refrigerant leakage from the primary inlet 91A and primary outlet 91B. Furthermore, compared to having a discharge path either upstream or downstream of the heat exchanger 3 in the primary flow path 1, the primary refrigerant can be discharged without passing through the heat exchanger 3, which has high flow resistance.

[0058] The primary inlet 91A, primary outlet 91B, and discharge port 10 may be located on the same surface of the housing 9. In the example shown in Figures 3 and 4, the primary inlet 91A, primary outlet 91B, first discharge port 101, and second discharge port 102 are located on the rear surface 91 of the housing 9. For example, the rear surface 91 has six openings that penetrate in the X-axis direction. From each of these six openings, a cylindrical member with its axial direction in the X-axis direction protrudes from the rear surface 91 toward one side in the X-axis direction (the positive X-axis direction side). The housing 9 has the six cylindrical members protruding from the rear surface 91 toward one side in the X-axis direction as the primary inlet 91A, primary outlet 91B, secondary inlet 92A, secondary outlet 92B, first discharge port 101, and second discharge port 102. The first discharge port 101 and the second discharge port 102 may be, for example, drain cups. The first discharge port 101 and the second discharge port 102 may be opened when the clamp is removed and the material is discharged from the discharge path 12.

[0059] By providing the primary inlet 91A, primary outlet 91B, and discharge port 10 on the same surface of the housing 9, the discharge operation from the discharge path 12 when removing the clamp becomes easier compared to the case where the primary inlet 91A, primary outlet 91B, and discharge port 10 are provided on different surfaces of the housing 9.

[0060] The distance between the first outlet 101 and the bottom surface 96 of the housing 9 may be shorter than the distance between the primary inlet 91A and primary outlet 91B and the bottom surface 96. Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, the distance d1 between the center position of the first outlet 101 in the Z-axis direction and the bottom surface 96 of the housing 9 may be shorter than the distance d2 between the center position of the primary inlet 91A in the Z-axis direction and the bottom surface 96 of the housing 9. Also, the distance d1 may be shorter than the distance d3 between the center position of the primary outlet 91B in the Z-axis direction and the bottom surface 96 of the housing 9.

[0061] Similarly, the distance between the second outlet 102 and the bottom surface 96 may be shorter than the distance between the primary inlet 91A and primary outlet 91B and the bottom surface 96. Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, the distance d4 between the center position of the second outlet 102 in the Z-axis direction and the bottom surface 96 of the housing 9 may be shorter than the distance d2 between the center position of the primary inlet 91A in the Z-axis direction and the bottom surface 96 of the housing 9. Also, the distance d4 may be shorter than the distance d3 between the center position of the primary outlet 91B in the Z-axis direction and the bottom surface 96 of the housing 9.

[0062] To put the above in other words, the first outlet 101 and the second outlet 102 may be located vertically below the primary inlet 91A and the primary outlet 91B.

[0063] Thus, because the distance between the outlet 10 and the bottom surface 96 is shorter than the distance between the primary inlet 91A and the primary outlet 91B and the bottom surface 96, the primary refrigerant can be easily recovered from the first outlet 101 and the second outlet 102 during the discharge operation when removing the clamp, compared to the case where the first outlet 101 and the second outlet 102 are located vertically above the primary inlet 91A and the primary outlet 91B.

[0064] Furthermore, the discharge path 12 may be inclined vertically downward as it approaches the outlet 10 from the branching point with the primary flow path 1. This makes it less likely for refrigerant to accumulate below the flow path pipe of the primary flow path 1 or in the discharge path 12, and makes it easier to discharge the primary refrigerant from the outlet 10.

[0065] Furthermore, the discharge path 12 may be connected to the vertically downward side of the primary flow path 1. This makes it less likely for refrigerant to accumulate at the bottom of the flow path pipe of the primary flow path 1, and makes it easier to discharge the primary refrigerant from the discharge port 10.

[0066] As shown in Figure 3, pressure sensors 111 and 116 may be located near the outlet 10. Specifically, pressure sensor 111 may be located near the first outlet 101. Pressure sensor 111 may be located upstream of the heat exchanger 3 in the primary flow path 1. Pressure sensor 111 may be located between the temperature sensor 112 and the primary inlet 91A in the primary flow path 1.

[0067] Similarly, the pressure sensor 116 may be located near the second outlet 102. The pressure sensor 116 may be located downstream of the heat exchanger 3 in the primary flow path 1. The pressure sensor 116 may be located between the temperature sensor 115 and the primary outlet 91B in the primary flow path 1.

[0068] By positioning pressure sensors 111 and 116 near the discharge port 10, it is possible to confirm the amount of pressure reduction caused by the discharge of the primary refrigerant in the primary flow path 1 through the discharge path 12.

[0069] Furthermore, pressure sensor 111 is provided near the primary inlet 91A, and pressure sensor 116 is provided near the primary outlet 91B. This allows for early detection of abnormalities in the primary flow path 1, such as blockages, by detecting changes in the differential pressure between pressure sensors 111 and 116. Specifically, the control unit 6 may notify an error using the display operation unit 8 when the differential pressure exceeds a threshold.

[0070] The control unit 6 may also determine whether there is a blockage in the primary flow path 1 by comparing the pressure under normal conditions, i.e., when there is no abnormality in the primary flow path 1, with the measured values ​​from the pressure sensors 111 and 116.

[0071] In this example, pressure sensors 111 and 116 are located near the outlet 10, but the sensors located near the outlet 10 are not limited to these. For example, a flow sensor may be located near the outlet 10. This allows for confirmation of changes in flow rate due to the discharge of primary refrigerant from the primary flow path 1 through the discharge path 12.

[0072] Next, the secondary inlet 92A and secondary outlet 92B according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the rear surface 91 of the CDU100 according to the embodiment.

[0073] As shown in Figure 5, the back surface 91 may have a recess in the region where the secondary inlet 92A and secondary outlet 92B are provided. Specifically, the back surface 91 may have a recess 921 in the region where the secondary inlet 92A is provided. Similarly, the back surface 91 may have a recess 922 in the region where the secondary outlet 92B is provided.

[0074] With this configuration, the width of the CDU 100 in the X-axis direction can be reduced compared to the case where the entire back surface 91 is a flat surface. Specifically, as shown in Figure 5, the secondary inlet 92A and secondary outlet 92B protrude outward from the housing 9 more than other members located on the back surface 91 (for example, the primary inlet 91A or primary outlet 91B). Therefore, by having recesses in the areas where the secondary inlet 92A and secondary outlet 92B are provided, the width of the CDU 100 in the X-axis direction can be reduced.

[0075] In this example, we have shown a design in which the region where the secondary inlet 92A and secondary outlet 92B are provided has a recess, but the region in which the recess is provided is not limited to this. For example, the back surface 91 may have a recess in the region where the primary inlet 91A, primary outlet 91B, or discharge port 10 (see Figure 3) is provided.

[0076] Next, the humidity and temperature sensor according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the rear surface 91 of the CDU100 according to the embodiment.

[0077] As shown in Figure 6, the CDU 100 may be equipped with a temperature and humidity sensor 913 located on the rear surface 91. This allows for detection of temperature and humidity near the piping connected to the primary inlet 91A, primary outlet 91B, secondary inlet 92A, or secondary outlet 92B, making piping maintenance easier. Furthermore, since the temperature and humidity sensor 913 is positioned on the same surface as the outlet 10, workability is improved when removing the clamp during discharge operations. The temperature and humidity sensor 913 may be covered by a cover member 914.

[0078] As described above, the CDU100 according to the embodiment includes a discharge path 12 that branches off from the main flow path 11 of the primary flow path 1. The discharge path 12 connects the discharge port 10 provided in the housing 9 to the primary flow path 1. With this configuration, by discharging the primary refrigerant from the discharge path 12, leakage of the primary refrigerant from the primary inlet 91A and primary outlet 91B is less likely.

[0079] In this example, the CDU100 has two discharge paths 12 branching off from the primary flow path 1, but the number of discharge paths 12 is not limited to two. There may be one discharge path 12, or there may be three or more.

[0080] (First variation) Figure 7 shows a schematic configuration of the CDU 100 according to the first modified example. In the embodiment described above, an example was shown in which the CDU 100 has a discharge path 12 that branches off from the primary flow path 1, but as shown in Figure 7, the CDU 100 may also have a discharge path 13 that branches off from the secondary flow path 2. The discharge path 13 connects the discharge port 10 provided in the housing 9 to the secondary flow path 2.

[0081] The discharge path 13 may include a third discharge path 131 and a fourth discharge path 132. The outlet 10 may include a third outlet 103 and a fourth outlet 104.

[0082] The third discharge path 131 connects the third outlet 103 to the secondary flow path 2. The third discharge path 131 branches off from the secondary inlet 92A in the secondary flow path 2 and the heat exchanger 3, and communicates with the third outlet 103. Specifically, the third discharge path 131 branches off from the main flow path 21 at a location downstream of the pressure sensor 211 and upstream of the temperature sensor 212.

[0083] The fourth discharge path 132 connects the fourth outlet 104 and the secondary flow path 2. The fourth discharge path 132 branches off from the secondary flow path 2 at a position between the heat exchanger 3 and the secondary outlet 92B, and communicates with the fourth outlet 104. Specifically, the fourth discharge path 132 branches off from the main flow path 21 at a position downstream of the temperature sensor 214 and upstream of the pressure sensor 215.

[0084] In this way, the CDU100 is equipped with a discharge path 13 that branches off from the secondary flow path 2, allowing the secondary refrigerant to be discharged from the discharge path 13, and preventing leakage of the secondary refrigerant from the secondary inlet 92A and secondary outlet 92B. In particular, when the internal pressure in the secondary flow path 2 is high, discharging the secondary refrigerant from the discharge path 13 can reduce the pressure inside the secondary flow path 2, suppressing the ejection of the secondary refrigerant from the secondary inlet 92A and secondary outlet 92B.

[0085] Furthermore, because the CDU100 has a third discharge path 131 and a fourth discharge path 132, the secondary refrigerant in the secondary flow path 2 can be discharged more reliably compared to the case where only one of the third discharge path 131 or the fourth discharge path 132 is present, thus reducing the likelihood of secondary refrigerant leakage from the secondary inlet 92A and secondary outlet 92B.

[0086] In this example, the CDU100 has two discharge paths 13 branching off from the secondary flow path 2, but the number of discharge paths 13 is not limited to two. There may be one discharge path 13, or there may be three or more.

[0087] (Second variation) Figure 8 shows a schematic configuration of the CDU 100 according to the second modified example. In the embodiment described above, an example was shown in which the CDU 100 has a discharge path 12 branching off from the primary flow path 1, and in the first modified example, an example was shown in which the CDU 100 has a discharge path 13 branching off from the secondary flow path 2. However, as shown in Figure 8, the CDU 100 may have both a discharge path 12 and a discharge path 13.

[0088] To rephrase the above, the CDU100 may have two discharge paths 122, 132 and two outlets 102, 104. Discharge path 122 connects outlet 102 to primary flow path 1. Discharge path 132 connects outlet 104 to secondary flow path 2.

[0089] Thus, by providing the CDU100 with a discharge path 12 branching from the primary flow path 1 and a discharge path 13 branching from the secondary flow path 2, primary refrigerant can be discharged from the discharge path 12 and secondary refrigerant can be discharged from the discharge path 13. As a result, primary refrigerant is less likely to leak from the primary inlet 91A and primary outlet 91B, and secondary refrigerant is less likely to leak from the secondary inlet 92A and secondary outlet 92B.

[0090] In this example, the CDU 100 has one discharge path 12 branching from the primary flow path 1 and one discharge path 13 branching from the secondary flow path 2. However, the number of discharge paths 12 and 13 is not limited to these. For example, the CDU 100 may have two discharge paths 12 and two discharge paths 13. In this case, the two discharge paths 12 may branch from the upstream and downstream sides of the primary flow path 1, respectively. Similarly, the two discharge paths 13 may branch from the upstream and downstream sides of the secondary flow path 2, respectively. The CDU 100 may also have outlets connected to the two discharge paths 12 and the two discharge paths 13.

[0091] (Third variation) Figure 9 is a schematic rear view of the CDU100 according to the third modified example.

[0092] The discharge port 10 may be provided at a position offset from the primary inlet 91A and primary outlet 91B in a direction perpendicular to the alignment direction of surfaces 95 and 96 (Y-axis direction). Specifically, as shown in Figure 9, the first discharge port 101 is provided at a position offset from the primary inlet 91A in the positive Y-axis direction. The first discharge port 101 is also provided at a position offset from the primary outlet 91B in the negative Y-axis direction. The second discharge port 102 is located at a position offset from the primary inlet 91A and primary outlet 91B in the negative Y-axis direction.

[0093] In this way, by positioning the discharge port 10 at a location offset in the Y-axis direction from the primary inlet 91A and primary outlet 91B, the discharge operation when removing the clamp becomes easier compared to the case where the discharge port 10 and the primary inlet 91A and primary outlet 91B overlap in the Y-axis direction.

[0094] In this example, the discharge port 10 is shown as being located offset in the Y-axis direction from the primary inlet 91A and primary outlet 91B, but it is not limited to this. As described above in the second embodiment, if the CDU 100 has a discharge path 13 that branches off from the secondary flow path 2, the discharge port 10 communicating with the discharge path 13 may be located offset in the Y-axis direction from the secondary inlet 92A and secondary outlet 92B. This makes the discharge operation when removing the clamp easier compared to the case where the discharge port 10 and the secondary inlet 92A and secondary outlet 92B overlap in the Y-axis direction.

[0095] In the direction of alignment of two opposing surfaces among the multiple surfaces 91 to 94 (here, the Y-axis direction), the discharge port 10 may be provided between the primary inlet 91A and the primary outlet 91B. Specifically, as shown in Figure 9, in the Y-axis direction, the first discharge port 101 may be provided between the primary inlet 91A and the primary outlet 91B.

[0096] As a result, the primary inlet 91A, primary outlet 91B, and discharge port 10 are located close together, making it easier to remove the clamp and discharge the contents.

[0097] In this example, the first outlet 101 is shown as being provided between the primary inlet 91A and the primary outlet 91B, but the second outlet 102 may similarly be provided between the primary inlet 91A and the primary outlet 91B. Furthermore, as described above in the first modified example, if the CDU 100 has a discharge path 13 branching off from the secondary flow path 2, the outlet 10 communicating with such discharge path 13 may be provided between the secondary inlet 92A and the secondary outlet 92B in the Y-axis direction. This makes the discharge operation easier when removing the clamp because the secondary inlet 92A, the secondary outlet 92B, and the outlet 10 are located close together.

[0098] (Other variations) The central axis of the flow channel pipe of discharge path 12 may be located vertically below the central axis of the flow channel pipe of primary flow path 1. This facilitates drainage from primary flow path 1 using discharge path 12. Similarly, the central axis of the flow channel pipe of discharge path 13 may be located vertically below the central axis of the flow channel pipe of secondary flow path 2. This facilitates drainage from secondary flow path 2 using discharge path 12.

[0099] The diameter of the flow channel pipe in the discharge path 12 may be smaller than the diameter of the flow channel pipe in the primary path 1. This can reduce the flow loss in the primary path 1. Similarly, the diameter of the flow channel pipe in the discharge path 13 may be smaller than the diameter of the flow channel pipe in the secondary path 2. This can reduce the flow loss in the secondary path 2.

[0100] The flow channel of the primary flow channel 1, which extends in the XY plane, may be connected to both the flow channel of the primary flow channel 1, which extends in the Z axis direction, and the flow channel of the discharge path 12, which extends in the Z axis direction. Specifically, the flow channel of the primary flow channel 1 may extend in the XY plane, and a portion of it may be composed of the flow channel of the primary flow channel 1. Alternatively, the flow channel of the primary flow channel 1 may be connected to the discharge path 12 in the XY plane.

[0101] By using piping components in this way, the piping of the discharge route 12 becomes easier.

[0102] Similarly, the flow channel pipe of the secondary flow channel 2 extending in the XY plane may be connected to both the flow channel pipe of the secondary flow channel 2 extending in the Z axis direction and the flow channel pipe of the discharge path 13 extending in the Z axis direction. This simplifies the piping of the discharge path 13.

[0103] Furthermore, this technology can also be configured as follows. (1) The casing and A primary flow path is housed in the aforementioned housing and connects a primary inlet and a primary outlet provided in the housing, A secondary flow path is housed in the aforementioned housing and connects a secondary inlet and a secondary outlet provided in the aforementioned housing, A heat exchanger housed in the aforementioned housing and connected to the primary flow path and the secondary flow path, A discharge path is provided in the housing and connects the discharge port in the housing to the primary flow path or the secondary flow path. A refrigerant circulation device equipped with the following features. (2) The aforementioned discharge path connects the discharge port and the primary flow path, The refrigerant circulation device according to (1), wherein the primary inlet, primary outlet, and discharge port are provided on the same surface of the housing. (3) The aforementioned outlet includes a first outlet and a second outlet, The aforementioned discharge path is A first discharge path branches off from the position between the primary inlet and the heat exchanger in the primary flow path and communicates with the first discharge port, A second discharge path branches off from the position between the heat exchanger and the primary outlet in the primary flow path and communicates with the second discharge port. A refrigerant circulation device according to (1) or (2), having the following: (4) The housing has a first surface located vertically below the heat exchanger, a second surface located opposite the first surface, and a plurality of third surfaces connecting the first surface and the second surface. The primary inlet, the primary outlet, and the discharge port are located on the third surface. The refrigerant circulation device according to (2), wherein the distance between the discharge port and the first surface is shorter than the distance between the primary inlet and the primary outlet and the first surface. (5) The housing has a first surface located vertically below the heat exchanger, a second surface located opposite the first surface, and a plurality of third surfaces connecting the first surface and the second surface. The primary inlet, the primary outlet, and the discharge port are located on the third surface. The refrigerant circulation device according to (2) or (4), wherein the discharge port is provided at a position offset from the primary inlet and primary outlet in a direction perpendicular to the alignment direction of the first and second surfaces. (6) The housing has a first surface located vertically below the heat exchanger, a second surface located opposite the first surface, and a plurality of third surfaces connecting the first surface and the second surface. The primary inlet, primary outlet, and discharge port are provided on the third surface. In the direction in which two of the plurality of third surfaces that face each other are aligned, the discharge port is provided between the primary inlet and the primary outlet. (2) or (4) the refrigerant circulation device described above. (7) The aforementioned outlet includes a third outlet and a fourth outlet, The refrigerant circulation device according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the discharge path has at least one of a third discharge path that branches off from a position between the secondary inlet and the heat exchanger in the secondary flow path and communicates with the third outlet, and a fourth discharge path that branches off from a position between the heat exchanger and the secondary outlet in the secondary flow path and communicates with the fourth outlet. (8) The system comprises two of the aforementioned discharge paths and two of the aforementioned discharge ports. The refrigerant circulation device according to (1), wherein one of the two discharge paths connects one of the two outlets to the primary flow path, and the other of the two discharge paths connects the other of the two outlets to the secondary flow path. (9) The refrigerant circulation device according to any one of (1) to (8), further comprising a pressure sensor or flow sensor located near the aforementioned outlet.

[0104] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. Indeed, the above embodiments can be embodied in a variety of forms. Furthermore, the above embodiments may be omitted, replaced, or modified in various ways without departing from the scope and spirit of the appended claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0105] 1 Primary channel 2 Secondary channel 3 Heat exchanger 4 Pump Unit 5 tanks 6. Control Unit 8 Display operation section 9 cabinets 10 Outlet 11 Main channel 12 Emission routes 90 Containment Area 91A Primary inlet 91B Primary outlet 92A Secondary inlet 92B Secondary outlet 100 CDU 101 1st outlet 102 2nd outlet 103 3rd outlet 104 4th outlet 111,116,211,215 Pressure Sensors 121 First Emission Route 122 Second Emission Route 131 Third Emission Route 132 Emissions pathway 4

Claims

1. The casing and A primary flow path is housed in the aforementioned housing and connects a primary inlet and a primary outlet provided in the housing, A secondary flow path is housed in the aforementioned housing and connects a secondary inlet and a secondary outlet provided in the aforementioned housing, A heat exchanger housed in the aforementioned housing and connected to the primary flow path and the secondary flow path, A discharge path is provided in the housing and connects the discharge port in the housing to the primary flow path or the secondary flow path. A refrigerant circulation device equipped with the following features.

2. The aforementioned discharge path connects the discharge port and the primary flow path, The refrigerant circulation device according to claim 1, wherein the primary inlet, the primary outlet, and the discharge port are provided on the same surface of the housing.

3. The aforementioned outlet includes a first outlet and a second outlet, The aforementioned discharge path is A first discharge path branches off from a position between the primary inlet and the heat exchanger in the primary flow path and communicates with the first discharge port, A second discharge path branches off from the position between the heat exchanger and the primary outlet in the primary flow path and communicates with the second discharge port. A refrigerant circulation device according to claim 1, having the following features.

4. The housing has a first surface located vertically below the heat exchanger, a second surface located opposite the first surface, and a plurality of third surfaces connecting the first surface and the second surface. The primary inlet, the primary outlet, and the discharge port are located on the third surface. The refrigerant circulation device according to claim 2, wherein the distance between the discharge port and the first surface is shorter than the distance between the primary inlet and the primary outlet and the first surface.

5. The housing has a first surface located vertically below the heat exchanger, a second surface located opposite the first surface, and a plurality of third surfaces connecting the first surface and the second surface. The primary inlet, the primary outlet, and the discharge port are located on the third surface. The refrigerant circulation device according to claim 2, wherein the discharge port is provided at a position offset from the primary inlet and primary outlet in a direction perpendicular to the alignment direction of the first and second surfaces.

6. The housing has a first surface located vertically below the heat exchanger, a second surface located opposite the first surface, and a plurality of third surfaces connecting the first surface and the second surface. The primary inlet, primary outlet, and discharge port are provided on the third surface. In the direction in which two of the plurality of third surfaces that face each other are aligned, the discharge port is provided between the primary inlet and the primary outlet. The refrigerant circulation device according to claim 2.

7. The aforementioned outlet includes a third outlet and a fourth outlet, The refrigerant circulation device according to claim 1, wherein the discharge path includes at least one of a third discharge path that branches off from a position between the secondary inlet and the heat exchanger in the secondary flow path and communicates with the third outlet, and a fourth discharge path that branches off from a position between the heat exchanger and the secondary outlet in the secondary flow path and communicates with the fourth outlet.

8. The system comprises two of the aforementioned discharge paths and two of the aforementioned discharge ports. The refrigerant circulation device according to claim 1, wherein one of the two discharge paths connects one of the two outlets to the primary flow path, and the other of the two discharge paths connects the other of the two outlets to the secondary flow path.

9. The refrigerant circulation device according to claim 1, further comprising a pressure sensor or flow sensor located near the outlet.

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