Support elements of parallel plates

Abstract

This disclosure relates to parallel plates and various components for heat exchangers. In some embodiments, the plate component includes at least one plate, which includes a first side defining the sides of a regulating channel, and which is configured to accommodate a desiccant. The plate also includes a second side opposite to the first side, which defines the sides of a discharge channel. Furthermore, at least one of the first side and the second side includes a plurality of support structures, which are distributed in a predetermined pattern and configured to maintain a predetermined width for each of the regulating channels and discharge channels.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims priority based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 500,205, filed on May 4, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 589,537, filed on October 11, 2023, and the entire disclosure of these applications is hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference to each of the entire applications.

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to heat exchangers, and more specifically, to parallel plates and various components for heat exchangers.

Background Art

[0003] Heating ventilation and cooling (HVAC) systems generally use a vapor - compression refrigeration cycle to cool ambient or room - temperature air. This HVAC system can include a heat exchanger that operates to remove heat from the refrigerant. For example, this heat exchanger can include plates or coils through which the refrigerant flows. By blowing air over the plate or coil with a fan, the refrigerant flowing through the plate or coil can be cooled. Although not many, these heat exchangers may contain a liquid desiccant for dehumidifying air during the cooling process.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] In some embodiments, the plate component includes a plate. This plate includes a first side that defines the side of an adjustment channel, and this first side is configured to accommodate a desiccant. The plate also includes a second side opposite to the first side. This second side defines the side of a discharge channel. Furthermore, at least one of the first side and the second side includes a plurality of support structures, which are distributed in a predetermined pattern and configured to maintain a predetermined width for each adjustment channel and discharge channel.

[0005] In some embodiments, the plate component includes a first plate and a second plate. The first plate includes a first side which defines the first side of the adjustment channel, and this first side is configured to accommodate a desiccant. The first plate also includes a second side which is opposite to the first side. This second side of the first plate defines the side of the discharge channel. Furthermore, the second plate includes a side which is opposite to the first side of the first plate, and this side defines the second side of the adjustment channel. At least one of the first side of the first plate and the side of the second plate includes a plurality of support structures, which are configured to be distributed in a predetermined pattern and to maintain a predetermined width of the adjustment channels.

[0006] In some embodiments, the plate component includes a first plate and a second plate. The first plate includes a first side which defines the first side of an adjustment channel, and this first side is configured to accommodate a desiccant. The first plate also includes a second side which is opposite to the first side. This second side of the first plate defines the side of an exhaust channel. Furthermore, the second plate includes a side which is opposite to the second side of the first plate, and this side defines the second side of the exhaust channel. The second side of the first plate and at least one of the side of the second plate include a plurality of support structures, which are configured to be distributed in a predetermined pattern to maintain a predetermined width of the exhaust channels. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] The following drawings illustrate specific embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. The drawings are not to scale and are intended to be used in conjunction with the description in the following detailed description.

[0008] [Figure 1A] The images show the side view of the adjustment channel of a plate component according to several embodiments.

[0009] [Figure 1B] The images show the side views of the discharge channel for plate components according to several embodiments.

[0010] [Figure 1C] In some embodiments, the plate component has both an adjustment channel side and a discharge channel side.

[0011] [Figure 1D] This shows the fluid flow through channels in a heat exchanger according to several embodiments.

[0012] [Figure 2A] Shows plate parts according to some embodiments.

[0013] [Figure 2B] Shows plate parts according to some embodiments.

[0014] [Figure 2C] Shows plate parts according to some embodiments.

[0015] [Figure 3A] Shows plate parts according to some embodiments.

[0016] [Figure 3B] Shows plate parts according to some embodiments.

[0017] [Figure 4] Shows plate parts according to some embodiments.

[0018] [Figure 5] Shows plate parts according to some embodiments.

[0019] [Figure 6] Shows plate parts according to some embodiments.

[0020] [Figure 7] Shows plate parts according to some embodiments. <S

[0021] [Figure 8A] Shows the air flow across the side of the process channel of parallel plate parts according to some embodiments.

[0022] [Figure 8B] Shows the air flow across the side of the discharge channel of parallel plate parts according to some embodiments.

[0023] [Figure 8C] This shows the airflow across the sides of process channels in parallel plate components according to several embodiments.

[0024] [Figure 8D] This shows the airflow across the sides of process channels in parallel plate components according to several embodiments. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0025] In the following description, prior art features of heat and mass exchangers that are obvious to those skilled in the art will be omitted or briefly described. Various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, but it should be noted that throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals represent the same parts or assemblies. References to the various embodiments described herein are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, any examples described herein are not limiting and merely illustrate a selection of the many implementable embodiments in the appended claims. In addition, certain functions described herein may be used in combination with other described functions in each possible combination and permutation.

[0026] Unless otherwise specified herein, all terms shall be given the broadest and most reasonable interpretation, including the meaning implied herein, the meaning understood by those skilled in the art, and / or the meaning defined in dictionaries, specialized books, etc. It should also be noted that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” used herein and in the appended claims, unless otherwise specified, refer to multiple objects, and that the terms “includes” and / or “including” herein, while clearly stating the presence of the described features, elements, and / or components, do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. In the detailed description of the invention, relative terms such as “horizontal,” “vertical,” “up,” “down,” “vertex,” and “bottom,” and their derivatives (e.g., “horizontally,” “downward,” “upward,” etc.) should be interpreted as referring to the direction being described at that time or the direction indicated in the drawings described herein. These relative terms are for the convenience of description and are not usually intended to require a specific direction. Terms including "up" versus "down," "inside" versus "outside," and "longitudinal" versus "lateral" should be interpreted relative to each other, or, where appropriate, relative to an extension axis, rotation axis, or center of rotation. Terms relating to connection or coupling, such as "connected" or "interconnected," refer to relationships in which structures are fixed or connected to each other directly or indirectly through intermediate structures, and movable or rigid connections or relationships, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Terms such as "operationally connected" or "operably connected" refer to connections, couplings, or joints that enable the related structures to function as intended.

[0027] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to heat exchangers in general, and more specifically to parallel plate heat exchangers or air-to-air heat exchangers that facilitate the flow of multiple fluids to transfer heat from a fluid such as water or a liquid desiccant. The flow of multiple fluids may include flows of different phases. For example, one flow may be in a gaseous state (e.g., an air flow) and the other flow may be in a liquid state (e.g., a water flow) while both flows are involved in the heat transfer process. For example, these two flows (e.g., external flows) may function to remove heat from a third flow (e.g., an internal flow), such as water or a liquid desiccant. In some embodiments, these flows may be at least partially mixed before or after passing through the parallel plate heat exchanger.

[0028] In some embodiments, the embodiment may include a plate component, the plate component including a first side opposite a second side. This first side defines a side of a regulating channel, and this second side defines a side of a discharge channel. For example, a first fluid flow, such as an air intake flow, may pass through the regulating channel in a first direction, and a second fluid flow, such as an exhaust flow, may pass through the discharge channel in a second direction opposite to the first direction. Furthermore, at least one of the first side and the second side includes a plurality of support structures distributed in a predetermined pattern (e.g., the number of support structures per unit area of ​​the corresponding side). These plurality of support structures are configured to maintain a predetermined width of each regulating channel and discharge channel. For example, these plurality of support structures may be distributed on the first side of the plate and engage with a second plate that defines another side of the regulating channel. In this case, these plurality of support structures maintain a predetermined width of the regulating channel, which extends between the first side of the plate and the second plate. In another embodiment, these support structures may be distributed on a second side of the plate and engage with a second plate that defines another side of the discharge channel. In this case, these support structures maintain a predetermined width of the discharge channel, which extends between the second side of the plate and the second plate.

[0029] Referring to the drawings, Figures 1A and 1B show an exemplary plate component 100, which may be used in a heat exchanger (e.g., a parallel plate heat exchanger, a flat plate heat exchanger, or an air-to-air heat exchanger), such as the heat exchanger 190 described later with respect to Figure 1D. This heat exchanger can operate in, for example, an air conditioner, a regenerator, or any other suitable system requiring heat transfer. Figure 1A shows a side view of the adjustment channel 102 of the plate component 100, while Figure 1B shows a side view of the discharge channel 122 of the plate component 100.

[0030] As shown in Figure 1A, the plate component 100 has both a dehumidification stage 197 and an indirect evaporative cooling stage 199 on the side of the adjustment channel 102. The airflow 101 of the adjustment channel may flow into the adjustment channel 102 from the opening 103 of the adjustment channel. This airflow 101 of the adjustment channel may be dehumidified as it passes through the dehumidification stage 197 and cooled as it passes through the indirect evaporative cooling stage 199. For example, the dehumidification stage 197 may include a wicking medium 110, and a liquid desiccant is supplied to the wicking medium through the distribution channel 132 of the distribution header 113 (see also Figure 1B). As the airflow 101 of the adjustment channel passes through the adjustment channel 102, this liquid desiccant removes moisture from the airflow 101 of the adjustment channel.

[0031] Furthermore, the dehumidification stage 197 may include a plurality of spacers 116 arranged along the side of the adjustment channel 102 of the plate component 100. These spacers 116 may function as a support structure that maintains a predetermined width of the adjustment channel 102. For example, these spacers 116 may be distributed along the side of the adjustment channel 102 of the plate component 100, or they may engage with a second plate that defines another side of the adjustment channel 102. Furthermore, these spacers 116 may be positioned in a predetermined pattern. For example, these spacers 116 may be uniformly distributed over at least a portion of the surface area 118 of the side of the adjustment channel 102 of the plate component 100. For example, these spacers 116 may be uniformly distributed over the entire surface area portion of the dehumidification stage 197 on the side of the adjustment channel 102 of the plate component 100. In some embodiments, the surface area of ​​the dehumidification stage 197 may be between 25% and 75% of the surface area 118 of the side surface of the adjustment channel 102 of the plate component 100.

[0032] The cooling stage 199 of the plate component 102 may include a plurality of heat transfer elements 120, which may absorb heat from the airflow 101 of the adjustment channel as the airflow 101 of the adjustment channel passes through the adjustment channel 102. In some embodiments, the plurality of heat transfer elements 120 are fin-shaped. In some embodiments, these plurality of heat transfer elements 120 may further function as a support structure configured to maintain a predetermined width of the adjustment channel 102. For example, the plurality of heat transfer elements 120 may be distributed on the side of the plate component 100 and may engage with a second plate defining another side of the second adjustment channel 102. In some embodiments, as described herein, the cooling stage 199 of the plate component 102 may include spacers instead of, or in addition to, the plurality of heat transfer elements 120. These spacers may also function as a support structure configured to maintain a predetermined width of the adjustment channel 102. In some embodiments, the surface area of ​​the cooling stage 199 may be between 15% and 75% of the surface area 118 of the side surface of the adjustment channel 102 of the plate component 100.

[0033] Furthermore, the multiple heat transfer elements 120 may be positioned in a predetermined pattern. For example, these multiple heat transfer elements 120 may be uniformly distributed over at least a portion of the surface area of ​​the cooling stage 199 on the side of the adjustment channel 102 of the plate component 100. In some embodiments, the multiple heat transfer elements 120 occupy less than 15% of the surface area of ​​the cooling stage 199 of the plate component 100. In other embodiments, the multiple heat transfer elements 120 are distributed over at least 5% or at least 10% of the surface area of ​​the cooling stage 199 of the plate component 100. In some embodiments, the multiple heat transfer elements 120 are distributed over at least 5% or more but less than 10% of the surface area of ​​the cooling stage 199 of the plate component 100. In some embodiments, the multiple heat transfer elements 120 are distributed over at least 50% (e.g., 75%, 90%) of the surface area of ​​the cooling stage 199 of the plate component 100.

[0034] In some embodiments, as described herein, at least some of the multiple heat transfer elements 120 are formed by a portion of the side surface of the plate component 100 (e.g., a notch), and the portion is folded into a channel (e.g., an adjustment channel 102). In at least some of these embodiments, these multiple heat transfer elements 120 occupy less than 15% of the area of ​​the side surface of the plate component 100. In at least some of these embodiments, the multiple heat transfer elements 120 are distributed over at least 5% or at least 10% of the area of ​​the side surface of the plate component 100. In at least some of these embodiments, the multiple heat transfer elements 120 are distributed over at least 5% or more but less than 10% of the area of ​​the side surface of the plate component 100.

[0035] Figure 1B shows a side view of a discharge channel 122 provided by a plate component 100. In this embodiment, the airflow 121 of the discharge channel may enter the discharge channel 122 through a first discharge channel opening 123 and may pass through the discharge channel 122 until it is discharged from the discharge channel 122 through a second discharge channel opening 125. The discharge channel 122 may also include a wicking medium 139, to which a working fluid, such as water, is supplied through one or more distribution channels 112 of a distribution header 133 (see also Figure 1A). As the airflow 121 of the discharge channel passes through the discharge channel 122, water evaporates from the wicking medium 139, thereby cooling the plate component 100 and indirectly cooling the airflow 101 of the adjustment channel flowing through the adjustment channel 102.

[0036] Furthermore, the discharge channel 122 may include a plurality of spacers 136 arranged along the discharge channel side of the plate component 100. As described herein, these spacers 136 may function as a support structure that maintains a predetermined width of the discharge channel 122. For example, these spacers 136 may be distributed along the discharge channel 122 side of the plate component 100 and may engage with a second plate that defines another side of the discharge channel 122. Furthermore, these spacers 136 may be positioned in a predetermined pattern. For example, these spacers 136 may be uniformly distributed over at least a portion of the surface area 138 of the discharge channel 122 side of the plate component 100.

[0037] Figure 1C shows the airflow 101 (e.g., mixed air) of the regulating channel 102 traveling across the side of the plate component 100. As shown, a portion of the regulating channel airflow 101 exiting the regulating channel 102 is supplied as supply air 182 (e.g., supply air to the building), while another portion 183 of the regulating channel airflow 101 exiting the regulating channel 102 is directed toward the exhaust channel 122, forming at least a portion of the exhaust channel airflow 121. The regulating channel 102 dehumidifies and cools the regulating channel airflow 101 as it flows through it, while the exhaust channel airflow 121 removes heat from the regulating channel 102 as it flows through it. Thus, the plate component 100 can facilitate at least two fluid flows, both of which are involved in a heat transfer process.

[0038] Figure 1D shows a top view of a heat exchanger 190 including a plurality of plate components 100, which include a first plate 100A, a second plate 100B, a third plate 100C, a fourth plate 100D, a fifth plate 100E, a sixth plate 100F, and a seventh plate 100G. These plates 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E, 100F, and 100G define a plurality of regulating channels 104 and a plurality of discharge channels 154. For example, the first plate 100A and the second plate 100B define the first regulating channel 104A. Furthermore, the second plate 100B and the third plate 100C define the first discharge channel 154A. Similarly, the third plate 100C and the fourth plate 100D define the second adjustment channel 104B, and the fourth plate 100D and the fifth plate 100E define the second discharge channel 154B. Furthermore, the fifth plate 100E and the sixth plate 100F define the third adjustment channel 104C, and the sixth plate 100F and the seventh plate 100G define the third discharge channel 154C.

[0039] Furthermore, one or more support structures 130 are located between adjacent plate components 100, and these support structures 130 maintain a predetermined distance between corresponding channels (e.g., adjustment channels 104 and discharge channels 154). Each support structure 130 may be coupled to the surface 132 of each first plate component 100 (e.g., plate 100C), or, in addition or alternatively, to the surface 134 of each second plate component 100 (e.g., plate 100B). The surfaces 132 of each first plate component 100 and the surfaces 134 of each second plate component 100 may form corresponding channels, such as adjustment channels 104 and discharge channels 154. In some embodiments, these support structures 130 and these plates 100 may be made of metal or other thermally conductive material.

[0040] As further illustrated, the mixed air 191 flows into the multiple adjustment channels 104, where it is dehumidified and cooled, resulting in a flow of supply air 193 flowing out of these multiple adjustment channels 104. A wicking medium, such as wicking medium 110, may be placed along these multiple adjustment channels 104, and may also contain a liquid desiccant to dehumidify the mixed air 191. Furthermore, a portion of the supply air 193 flowing out of the multiple adjustment channels 104 flows into the multiple discharge channels 154 as part of the flow of discharge air 195 flowing through the multiple discharge channels 154. As the discharge air 195 flows through the multiple discharge channels 154, it absorbs heat from water 196 accumulated in a wicking medium, such as wicking medium 122, located along the multiple discharge channels 154.

[0041] Figure 2A shows a plate component 200 that can be provided with a side surface for an adjustment channel 201, the side surface of which includes a dehumidification stage 202 and a cooling stage 204 for the airflow 205 of the adjustment channel. The dehumidification stage 202 comprises a plurality of embossed features 206, and in some embodiments, the embossed features fix a wicking medium 208 to the surface of the plate component 200. The wicking medium 208 may contain a liquid desiccant, which dehumidifies the airflow 205 of the adjustment channel as it passes through the dehumidification stage 202. The embossed features 206 may be attached to the side surface of the plate component 200 by punching, molding, machining, 3D printing, or additive manufacturing. Furthermore, the embossed features 206 may be distributed in a predetermined pattern across the entire dehumidification stage 202. As described herein, in some embodiments, one or more embossed features 206 may further function as support structures configured to maintain a predetermined width of the adjustment channel 201. For example, one or more embossed features 206 may engage with corresponding embossed features on a second plate defining the other side of the adjustment channel 201.

[0042] Furthermore, the cooling stage 204 may include a plurality of heat transfer elements 209 which may absorb heat from the airflow 205 of the adjustment channel as the airflow 205 of the adjustment channel passes through the adjustment channel 201. In some embodiments, these plurality of heat transfer elements 209 may further function as support structures configured to maintain a predetermined width of the adjustment channel 201. For example, these plurality of heat transfer elements 209 may be distributed on the side surface of the plate component 200, or these plurality of heat transfer elements 209 may engage with a second plate defining another side surface of the adjustment channel 201. While the illustration here is in relation to the adjustment channel 201, in some embodiments, an exhaust channel, such as the side surface 152 of the exhaust channel of the plate component 100 shown in Figure 1B, may include a support structure, such as the embossed feature 206 described herein.

[0043] Figure 2B shows a plate component 220 on which a side of the adjustment channel 221 is provided, the side of which includes a dehumidifying stage 222 capable of dehumidifying the airflow of the adjustment channel and a cooling stage 224 capable of cooling the airflow of the adjustment channel. The dehumidifying stage 222 may include a plurality of spacers 226 positioned across a wicking medium 228, which is attached (e.g., by adhesive) to the surface of the plate component 220. The wicking medium 228 may include a liquid desiccant, which dehumidifies the airflow of the adjustment channel as it passes through the dehumidifying stage 222. The plurality of spacers 226 may be distributed in a predetermined pattern across the dehumidifying stage 222. These spacers 226 may function as a support structure configured to maintain a predetermined width of the adjustment channel 221. For example, one or more spacers 226 may engage with the side of a second plate that defines the other side of the adjustment channel 221.

[0044] Furthermore, the cooling stage 224 may include a plurality of embossed feature portions 236, which may be attached to the side surface of the plate component 220 by punching, molding, machining, 3D printing, or additive manufacturing. Additionally, these embossed feature portions 236 may be distributed in a predetermined pattern across the entire cooling stage 224. As described herein, in some embodiments, one or more embossed feature portions 236 may further function as support structures configured to maintain a predetermined width of the adjustment channel 221. For example, one or more embossed feature portions 236 may engage with one or more corresponding embossed feature portions on a second plate defining the other side of the adjustment channel 221.

[0045] While the adjustment channel 221 is illustrated, in some embodiments, For example, an exhaust channel, such as the side surface 152 of the exhaust channel of the plate component 100 shown in Figure 1B, may include support structures such as the embossed feature portion 236 and / or spacer 226 described herein. For example, these support structures may maintain a predetermined width of the adjustment channel 221 extending between the first side surface of the plate component 220 and the second plate. Furthermore, the support structures may be distributed on the second side surface of the plate component 220 that defines the first side surface of the exhaust channel, or they may engage with a third plate that defines another side surface of the exhaust channel. In this case, these support structures may maintain a predetermined width of the exhaust channel extending between the second side surface of the plate component 220 and the third plate.

[0046] Figure 2C shows a plate component 240 on which a side surface of the discharge channel 241 can be provided. In this embodiment, the discharge channel 241 includes the wicking medium 248, which is attached (e.g., by bonding) to the surface of the plate component 240. The discharge channel 241 further includes a plurality of embossed features 246, which may be attached to the side surface of the plate component 240 by punching, molding, machining, 3D printing, or additive manufacturing. Furthermore, these embossed features 246 may be distributed in a predetermined pattern across the entire discharge channel 241. As described herein, in some embodiments, one or more embossed features 246 may further function as support structures (e.g., spacers) configured to maintain a predetermined width of the discharge channel 241. For example, one or more embossed features 246 may engage with one or more corresponding embossed features on a second plate defining the other side of the discharge channel 241. In some cases, one or more embossed features 246 may engage with a side of the second plate defining the other side of the discharge channel 241.

[0047] In some embodiments, the embossed features 246 may be distributed throughout the discharge channel 241. For example, these embossed features 246 may be distributed in a predetermined pattern throughout the discharge channel 241.

[0048] Figure 3A shows a plate component 300 including a side surface 303 for an adjustment channel and a side surface 305 for an outlet channel. The side surface 303 for the adjustment channel may define one side of the adjustment channel 302, and the side surface 305 for the outlet channel may define one side of the outlet channel 304. For example, a second plate component 300 may be positioned adjacent to the side surface 303 for the adjustment channel of the plate component 300, defining the other side of the adjustment channel 302. Similarly, a third plate component 300 may be positioned adjacent to the side surface 305 for the outlet channel of the plate component 300, defining the other side of the outlet channel 304.

[0049] As further illustrated, the side surface 303 of the adjustment channel of the plate component 300 includes a plurality of embossed features 310. These embossed features 310 may be distributed in a predetermined manner across the entire side surface 303 of the adjustment channel of the plate component 300. As described herein, the plurality of embossed features 310 may be punched, molded, machined, 3D printed, or laminated onto the side surface 303 of the adjustment channel. In some cases, the plurality of embossed features 310 may function as a support structure that maintains a predetermined width of the adjustment channel. For example, one or more embossed features 310 may engage with one or more corresponding embossed features on a second plate that defines the other side of the adjustment channel.

[0050] Furthermore, the side surface 303 of the adjustment channel of the plate component 300 may also include a plurality of heat transfer elements 320, which absorb heat from the airflow as it passes through the adjustment channel 302. In some embodiments, these plurality of heat transfer elements 320 may be fin-shaped. As shown in the figure, these heat transfer elements may be cut out into the plate component 300, and in this embodiment, the heat transfer elements are fin-shaped and folded into the adjustment channel 302. In some embodiments, these plurality of heat transfer elements 320 may function as a support structure configured to maintain a predetermined width of the adjustment channel 302. For example, these plurality of heat transfer elements 320 may engage with a second plate that defines another side of the adjustment channel 302.

[0051] In this embodiment, the first subset 325A of the heat transfer element 320 is separated from the second subset 325B of the heat transfer element 320 by the first row 326A of the embossed feature portion 310. Similarly, the second subset 325B of the heat transfer element 320 is separated from the third subset 325C of the heat transfer element 320 by the second row 326B of the embossed feature portion 310. Furthermore, the third subset 325C of the heat transfer element 320 is separated from the fourth subset 325D of the heat transfer element 320 by the third row 326C of the embossed feature portion 310. In addition, the fourth subset 325D of the heat transfer element 320 is separated from the fifth subset 325E of the heat transfer element by the fourth row 326D of the embossed feature portion 310.

[0052] Figure 3B shows an enlarged view of a portion of the plate component 300 of Figure 3A. As shown, each of the multiple embossed features 310 may protrude into either the adjustment channel 302 or the discharge channel 304. For example, embossed feature 310A protrudes toward the adjustment channel 302, while embossed feature 310B protrudes toward the discharge channel 304. As described herein, an embossed feature 310 may engage with another embossed feature 310 that is part of a corresponding channel. For example, embossed feature 310A may engage with an embossed feature of a second plate component 300 that protrudes toward the adjustment channel 302. These embossed features 310 may function as support elements. In some cases, these embossed features 310 do not promote heat transfer, while in some embodiments, these embossed features 310 promote heat transfer (for example, function as heat transfer elements). Furthermore, in this embodiment, the heat transfer element 320 includes fins, such as fin 320A, which protrude into the adjustment channel 302. These fins of the heat transfer element 320, such as fin 320A, may engage with a second plate that defines another side of the adjustment channel 302.

[0053] Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a plate component 400 including a first plate 402 and a second plate 404, the first plate 402 and the second plate 404 defining a channel 405, such as an adjustment channel. As shown, the first plate 402 may include a first embossed feature portion 410, which extends into the channel 405 and engages with a second embossed feature portion 412 of the second plate 404. More specifically, the outer surface 411 of the first embossed feature portion 410 engages with the outer surface 413 of the second embossed feature portion 412.

[0054] Furthermore, the first plate 402 includes a plurality of first heat transfer elements 422, and the second plate 404 includes a plurality of second heat transfer elements 424. These plurality of first heat transfer elements 422 are designed as notches in a portion of the first plate 402, which protrude into the channel 405 (for example, folded into the channel 405) and engage with the inner surface 432 of the second plate 404. Similarly, the plurality of second heat transfer elements 424 are designed as notches in a portion of the second plate 404, which protrude into the channel 405 and engage with the inner surface 442 of the first plate 402.

[0055] Figure 5 shows a plate component 500 including a first plate 502, a second plate 522, and a third plate 542. The first side surface 503 of the first plate 502 may define the side surface of a regulating channel 506, which includes a dehumidification stage 508 and an indirect evaporative cooling stage 510. The airflow 501 of the regulating channel may flow into the regulating channel 506, or the airflow 501 of the regulating channel may be dehumidified as it passes through the dehumidification stage 508. For example, the dehumidification stage 508 may include a wicking medium 509 containing a liquid desiccant. As the airflow 501 of the regulating channel passes through the regulating channel 506, the liquid desiccant removes moisture from the airflow 501 of the regulating channel. In this embodiment, the dehumidification stage 508 also includes a plurality of heat transfer elements 511. In some embodiments, these multiple heat transfer elements 511 may function as mass transfer elements (e.g., turbulators) that create turbulence in the airflow 501 of the regulating channel. Each of these heat transfer elements 511 includes a pair of fins. These pairs of fins may be part of the first plate 502, which is folded into the regulating channel 506. For example, heat transfer element 511A includes a first fin 512A and a second fin 512B. In some embodiments, each of these fins may be configured to engage with the side of another plate defining the regulating channel 506. In some embodiments, one or more fins do not engage with the side of another plate. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a dehumidifying stage 508 containing a wicking medium 509 may occupy 15% to 45% of the surface area 513 of the first side 503 of the plate component 500. For example, a dehumidifying stage 508 containing a wicking medium 509 may occupy 25% of the surface area 513 of the first side surface 503 of the plate component 500.

[0056] Furthermore, the airflow 501 of the adjustment channel may be cooled as it passes through the indirect evaporative cooling stage 510. As shown in the figure, this indirect evaporative cooling stage 510 includes a plurality of heat transfer elements 514. Each of these heat transfer elements 514 includes a pair of fins. For example, heat transfer element 514A includes a first fin 515A and a second fin 515B. Each of these fins is configured to engage with the side surface of another plate that defines the adjustment channel 506. As described herein, these plurality of heat transfer elements 514 may be positioned according to a predetermined pattern. These plurality of heat transfer elements 514 may occupy a portion of the surface area of ​​the aforementioned evaporative cooling stage 510 on the first side surface 503. For example, in this embodiment, these plurality of heat transfer elements 514 occupy at least 15% of the surface area of ​​the evaporative cooling stage 510 on the first side surface 503 of the first plate 502. In some embodiments, the multiple heat transfer elements 514 occupy 5% to 10% of the surface area of ​​the evaporative cooling stage 510 on the first side surface 503 of the first plate 502. In some embodiments, the multiple heat transfer elements 514 occupy up to 50% of the surface area of ​​the evaporative cooling stage 510 on the first side surface 503 of the first plate 502. In some embodiments, the multiple heat transfer elements 514 occupy at least 50% of the surface area of ​​the evaporative cooling stage 510 on the first side surface 503 of the first plate 502. For example, the multiple heat transfer elements 514 may occupy 50% to 90% of the surface area of ​​the evaporative cooling stage 510 on the first side surface 503 of the first plate 502.

[0057] The second side 505 of the first plate 502, together with the first side 533 of the second plate 522, may define a discharge channel 516. For example, an airflow 517 of the discharge channel may pass through the discharge channel 516. In some embodiments, this discharge channel airflow 517 includes at least a portion 573 of the regulating channel airflow 501 flowing out of the regulating channel 506. The second side 505 of the first plate 502 may include a first wicking medium 524, which is supplied with a working fluid, such as water. As the discharge channel airflow 517 passes through the discharge channel 516, water evaporates from the first wicking medium 524, thereby cooling the plate component 500 and indirectly cooling the regulating channel airflow 501 flowing through the regulating channel 506.

[0058] The second side 534 of the second plate 522, together with the first side 543 of the third plate 542, may define a second adjustment channel 545. Thus, the plate component 500 is configured such that adjustment channels and discharge channels are arranged alternately. For example, additional plates may be added to the plate component 500 to form additional and alternating adjustment channels and discharge channels.

[0059] Figure 6 shows a plate component 600 including a first plate 602, a second plate 622, and a third plate 642. The first side surface 603 of the first plate 602 may define the side surface of a regulating channel 606, which includes a dehumidification stage 608 and an indirect evaporative cooling stage 610. An airflow 601 of the regulating channel may flow into the regulating channel 606, and the airflow 601 of the regulating channel may be dehumidified as it passes through the dehumidification stage 608. For example, the dehumidification stage 608 may include a wicking medium 609 containing a liquid desiccant. As the airflow 601 of the regulating channel passes through the regulating channel 606, the liquid desiccant removes moisture from the airflow 601 of the regulating channel. In this embodiment, the dehumidification stage 608 containing the wicking medium 609 occupies 20% to 45% of the surface area 613 of the first side surface 603 of the plate component 600. In some embodiments, the dehumidification stage 608 containing the wicking medium 609 occupies 15% to 75% of the surface area 613 of the first side surface 603 of the plate component 600. For example, the dehumidification stage 608 containing the wicking medium 609 may occupy 50% of the surface area 613 of the first side surface 603 of the plate component 600.

[0060] Furthermore, the airflow 601 in this regulating channel may be cooled as it passes through the indirect evaporative cooling stage 610. As shown herein, the indirect evaporative cooling stage 610 includes a plurality of heat transfer elements 614. Each of these heat transfer elements 614 includes a pair of fins. These pairs of fins may be part of the first plate 602, which is folded into the regulating channel 606. For example, a heat transfer element 611A located in the dehumidification stage 608 includes a first fin 612A and a second fin 612B, and a heat transfer element 614A located in the indirect evaporative cooling stage 610 includes a first fin 615A and a second fin 615B. Each of these fins is configured to engage with the side of another plate that defines the regulating channel 606. As described herein, these plurality of heat transfer elements 614 may be positioned according to a predetermined pattern. For example, in this embodiment, these multiple heat transfer elements 614 occupy at least 15% of the surface area of ​​the aforementioned evaporative cooling stage 610 on the first side surface 603 of the first plate 602. In some embodiments, these multiple heat transfer elements 614 occupy 5% to 10% of the surface area of ​​the aforementioned evaporative cooling stage 610 on the first side surface 603 of the first plate 602.

[0061] The second side 605 of the first plate 602, together with the first side 633 of the second plate 622, may define a discharge channel 616. For example, an airflow 617 of the discharge channel may pass through the discharge channel 616. In some embodiments, this discharge channel airflow 617 includes at least a portion 673 of the regulating channel airflow 601 flowing out of the regulating channel 606. The second side 605 of the first plate 602 may include a first wicking medium 624 to which a working fluid, such as water, is supplied. As this discharge channel airflow 617 passes through the discharge channel 616, water evaporates from the first wicking medium 624, resulting in the cooling of the plate component 600, and indirectly cooling the regulating channel airflow 601 flowing through the regulating channel 606.

[0062] The second side surface 634 of the second plate 622, together with the first side surface 643 of the third plate 642, may define a second adjustment channel 645. Thus, the plate component 600 is configured such that adjustment channels and discharge channels are arranged alternately. For example, additional plates may be added to the plate component 600 to form additional, alternately arranged adjustment channels and discharge channels.

[0063] Figure 7 shows a plate component 700 including a first plate 702, a second plate 722, and a third plate 742. The first side surface 703 of the first plate 702 may define the side surface of a regulating channel 706, which includes a dehumidification stage 708 and an indirect evaporative cooling stage 710. The airflow 701 of the regulating channel may flow into the regulating channel 706, and the airflow 701 of the regulating channel may be dehumidified as it passes through the dehumidification stage 708. For example, the dehumidification stage 708 may include a wicking medium 709 containing a liquid desiccant. As the airflow 701 of the regulating channel passes through the regulating channel 706, the liquid desiccant removes moisture from the airflow 701 of the regulating channel. In this embodiment, the aforementioned dehumidification stage 708 containing the wicking medium 709 occupies 45% to 75% of the surface area 713 of the first side surface 703 of the plate component 700. In some embodiments, the dehumidification stage 708 containing the wicking medium 709 occupies 50% to 100% of the surface area 713 of the first side surface 703 of the plate component 700. For example, the dehumidification stage 708 containing the wicking medium 709 may occupy 75% of the surface area 713 of the first side surface 703 of the plate component 700.

[0064] Furthermore, the airflow 701 of this regulating channel may be cooled as it passes through the indirect evaporative cooling stage 710. As shown herein, the indirect evaporative cooling stage 710 includes a plurality of heat transfer elements 714. Each of these heat transfer elements 714 includes a pair of fins. These pairs of fins may be part of a first plate 702, which is folded into the regulating channel 706. For example, a heat transfer element 711A located in the dehumidification stage 708 includes a first fin 712A and a second fin 712B, and a heat transfer element 714A located in the indirect evaporative cooling stage 710 includes a first fin 715A and a second fin 715B. Each of these fins is configured to engage with the side of another plate that defines the regulating channel 706. As described herein, these plurality of heat transfer elements 714 may be positioned according to a predetermined pattern. For example, in this embodiment, these multiple heat transfer elements 714 occupy at least 15% of the surface area of ​​the dehumidification stage 708 on the first side surface 703 of the first plate 702. In some embodiments, these multiple heat transfer elements 714 occupy 5% to 10% of the surface area of ​​the dehumidification stage 708 on the first side surface 703 of the first plate 702.

[0065] The second side 705 of the first plate 702, together with the first side 733 of the second plate 722, may define a discharge channel 716. For example, an airflow 717 of the discharge channel may pass through the discharge channel 716. In some embodiments, this discharge channel airflow 717 includes at least a portion 773 of the regulating channel airflow 701 flowing out of the regulating channel 706. The second side 705 of the first plate 702 may include a first wicking medium 724 to which a working fluid, such as water, is supplied. As this discharge channel airflow 717 passes through the discharge channel 716, water evaporates from the first wicking medium 724, resulting in the cooling of the plate component 700, and indirectly cooling the regulating channel airflow 701 flowing through the regulating channel 706.

[0066] The second side 734 of the second plate 722, together with the first side 743 of the third plate 742, may define a second adjustment channel 745. Thus, the plate component 700 is configured such that adjustment channels and discharge channels are arranged alternately. For example, additional plates may be added to the plate component 700 to form additional, alternately arranged adjustment channels and discharge channels.

[0067] Figure 8A is a cutaway illustration of an airflow 801 passing through an adjustment channel 802 of a plate component 800. The plate component 800 includes a plurality of support structures 804, which extend between the plates of the adjustment channel of the plate component 800. These support structures 804 are configured to maintain a predetermined width of the adjustment channel 802 (i.e., the spacing between the plates of the adjustment channel). In this embodiment, the plate component 800 is shown as a row of support structures 804, whereas in other embodiments, as described herein, these support structures 804 may be distributed across one or more portions of the surface of the plates of the adjustment channel of the plate component 800. As shown, the airflow 801 flows in through a first opening 812 of the plate component 800, which extends from a second end 829 of the plate component 800 to a height 831 of the first opening. This airflow 801 flows into the first opening 812, is redirected by the multiple support structures 804, is dehumidified and cooled as it passes through the adjustment channel 802, and then flows out through the second opening 822 from the adjustment channel 802 of the plate component 800.

[0068] As shown in this embodiment, the support structures 804 are positioned such that the spacing between them decreases as the plate component 800 moves from the first end 819 to the second end 829. This narrowing of the spacing between the support structures 804 allows more airflow 801 to be directed toward the first end 819 of the plate component 800 as it flows through the first opening 812, which, as described above, extends from the second end 829 of the plate component 800 to the height 831 of the first opening (for example, not to the first end 819). In some embodiments, the distance from the second end 829 of the plate component 800 to the height 831 of the first opening is within the range of 50% to 90% of the distance from the second end 829 to the first end 819 of the plate component 800, for example, within the range of 60% to 85%, or within the range of 65% to 80%.

[0069] In some cases, the average spacing between support structures 804 closer to the first end 819 of the plate component 800 (for example, support structures 804 within the upper half of the plate component 800) is greater than the average spacing between support structures 804 closer to the second end 829 of the plate component (for example, support structures 804 within the lower half of the plate component 800). For example, the spacing between support structures 804 closer to the first end 819 may result in a higher ratio of the opening area 833 for the airflow 801 to pass through compared to the opening area 833 allowed by the spacing between support structures 804 closer to the second end 829. In some cases, the opening area 833 provided by the spacing between support structures 804 closer to the first end 819 may be between 50% and 90% of the total opening area provided by the spacing between all support structures 804, for example, between 60% and 80%.

[0070] In some cases, the lengths of these support structures 804 may differ in order to provide an opening region 833 that allows the passage of the airflow 801. For example, these support structures 804 may be positioned such that the distance between the midpoints of adjacent support structures 804 remains the same, and the lengths of these support structures 804 may decrease based on the distance from the second end 829 of the plate component 800 (for example, a support structure 804 further from the second end 829 may have a shorter length than a support structure 804 closer to the second end 829 of the plate component 800). Because the lengths of the support structures 804 differ, the support structures 804 closer to the first end 819 may have a larger overall opening for the passage of the airflow 801 than the support structures 804 closer to the second end 829 of the plate component 800.

[0071] In some embodiments, the opening area between the support structures 804 halves closer to the first end 819 of the adjustment channel 802 is larger than the opening area between the support structures 804 halves closer to the second end 829 of the adjustment channel 802. In some embodiments, the aforementioned opening area between the support structures 804 halves closer to the first end 819 is at least 5% larger, or at least 10% larger, or at least 15% larger, or at least 20% larger, or at least 30% larger, or at least 40% larger, or at least 50% larger than the aforementioned opening area between the support structures 804 halves closer to the second end 829. For example, if the opening area between the halves of the support structures 804 closest to the first end 819 is 45%, and the opening area between the halves of the support structures 804 closest to the second end 829 is 15%, then the opening area between the halves of the support structures 804 closest to the first end 819 is 30% larger than the opening area between the halves of the support structures 804 closest to the second end 829. The arrangement described herein is configured to distribute the fluid flow downstream of the support structures 804 evenly throughout the entire regulating channel 802, even though the fluid flows in from the first opening 812 which does not extend to the entire height of the regulating channel 802.

[0072] Furthermore, while Figure 8A shows a plate component 800 with support structures 804 arranged in a row, in some embodiments these support structures 804 may be offset from one another. For example, Figure 8C shows support structures 804 that are offset from one another, forming a row of support structures at a first angle 852. This first angle 852 may be, for example, between 45 and 90 degrees. In this embodiment, these support structures 804 are arranged such that the support structures 804 closer to the first end 819 of the plate component 800 are closer to the first opening 812 than the other support structures 804. Figure 8D shows support structures 804 that are offset from one another, forming a row of support structures at a second angle 854. This second angle 854 may be, for example, between 90 and 135 degrees. As shown in the figure, the support structures 804 are arranged such that the support structure 804 closer to the second end 829 of the plate component 800 is closer to the first opening 812 than the other support structures 804.

[0073] Figure 8B is a cross-sectional view of the airflow 851 passing through the discharge channel 852 of the plate component 800. The plate component 800 includes a plurality of support structures 854, which extend between the plates of the discharge channel of the plate component 800. These support structures 854 are configured to maintain a predetermined width of the discharge channel 852 (i.e., the spacing between the plates of the discharge channel). In this embodiment, the plate component 800 is shown as a row of support structures 854, whereas in other embodiments, as described herein, these support structures 854 may be distributed across one or more portions of the surface of the plates of the discharge channel of the plate component 800. As shown in the figure, the airflow 851 flows in from a first opening 872 of the plate component 800, and as the airflow 851 passes through the discharge channel 852 and removes heat from the plate component 800, the airflow 851 is redirected by the plurality of support structures 804 and flows out of the discharge channel 852 of the plate component 800 through a second opening 862 that extends from the first end 819 of the plate component 800 to a height 841 of the second opening. In some embodiments, these plurality of support structures 854 are configured to produce a desired result for the airflow 851. For example, these plurality of support structures 845 may be positioned to achieve a uniform airflow 851, or to approach a uniform airflow 851 as closely as possible.

[0074] As shown in this embodiment, the multiple support structures 854 are arranged such that the spacing between them increases as you move from the first end 819 of the plate component 800 toward the second end 829 of the plate component 800. In some embodiments, the distance from the first end 819 of the plate component 800 to the height 841 of the second opening is within the range of 15% to 50%, 20% to 25%, 10% to 50%, 15% to 40%, or 20% to 35% of the distance from the first end 819 to the second end 829 of the plate component 800.

[0075] In some cases, the average spacing between support structures 854 closer to the first end 819 of the plate component 800 than to the second end 829 (for example, support structures 854 within the upper half of the plate component 800) is smaller than the average spacing between support structures 804 closer to the second end 829 of the plate component 800 (for example, support structures 854 within the lower half of the plate component 800). For example, the spacing between support structures 854 closer to the first end 819 may result in a lower ratio of the opening area 853 for airflow 851 to pass through compared to the opening area 853 allowed by the spacing between support structures 854 closer to the second end 829. In some cases, the opening area 853 provided by the spacing between support structures 854 closer to the second end 829 may be between 50% and 90% of the total opening area provided by the spacing between all support structures 854, for example, between 60% and 80%.

[0076] In some cases, the lengths of these support structures 854 may differ in order to provide an opening region 853 that allows the passage of the airflow 851. For example, these support structures 804 may be positioned such that the distance between the midpoints of adjacent support structures 854 remains the same, and the lengths of these support structures 854 may increase based on the distance from the second end 829 of the plate component 800 (for example, support structures 854 further from the second end 829 may have a longer length than support structures 854 closer to the second end 829 of the plate component 800). Because the lengths of the support structures 854 differ, support structures 854 closer to the second end 829 may have a larger overall opening for the passage of the airflow 851 than support structures 854 closer to the first end 819 of the plate component 800.

[0077] In some embodiments, the opening area between the support structures 854 halves closest to the first end 819 of the discharge channel 852 is smaller than the opening area between the support structures 854 halves closest to the second end 829 of the discharge channel 852. In some embodiments, the aforementioned opening area between the support structures 854 halves closest to the second end 829 is at least 5% larger, or at least 10% larger, or at least 15% larger, or at least 20% larger, or at least 30% larger, or at least 40% larger, or at least 50% larger than the aforementioned opening area between the support structures 854 halves closest to the first end 819. For example, if the opening area between the halves of the support structures 854 closest to the second end 829 is 40%, and the opening area between the halves of the support structures 854 closest to the first end 819 is 20%, then the opening area between the halves of the support structures 854 closest to the second end 829 is 20% larger than the opening area between the halves of the support structures 854 closest to the first end 819. The arrangement described herein is configured to distribute the fluid flow downstream of the support structures 854 evenly throughout the regulating channel 852, even though the fluid flows out through the second opening 862 which does not extend to the entire height of the discharge channel 852.

[0078] The various embodiments described herein are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the appended claims. Those skilled in the art will readily understand that various modifications and changes can be made without following the exemplary embodiments and applications shown and described herein, and without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A plate component comprising a first plate, The first plate of the second team, It is configured to accommodate a desiccant and has a first side that defines the side of the adjustment channel, A second side, opposite to the first side, that defines the side of the discharge channel, wherein at least one of the first side and the second side comprises a plurality of support structures, the plurality of support structures being distributed in a predetermined pattern to maintain a predetermined width of each of the adjustment channels or a predetermined width of the discharge channel, A plate component characterized by comprising the following features.

2. The plate component according to claim 1, comprising a second plate, wherein the plurality of support structures are configured to engage with the second plate, and the second plate and the second side surface define the discharge channel.

3. The plate component according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of support structures include heat transfer elements.

4. The plate component according to claim 3, characterized in that the heat transfer element is fin-shaped.

5. The plate component according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of support structures have embossed characteristic portions.

6. The plate component according to claim 5, characterized in that the embossed feature portion has at least one feature which is punched, molded, machined, 3D printed, or laminated on at least one of the first side surface and the second side surface of the first plate.

7. The plate component according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of support structures are uniformly distributed over at least a portion of the surface area of ​​at least one of the first side surface and the second side surface of the first plate.

8. The plate component according to claim 7, characterized in that a portion of the surface area of ​​at least one of the first side surface and the second side surface of the first plate is less than 15% of the surface area of ​​at least one of the first side surface and the second side surface of the first plate.

9. The plate component according to claim 7, characterized in that a portion of the surface area of ​​at least one of the first side surface and the second side surface of the first plate is between 5% and 10% of the surface area of ​​at least one of the first side surface and the second side surface of the first plate.

10. The plate component according to claim 7, characterized in that a portion of the surface area of ​​at least one of the first side surface and the second side surface of the first plate is at least 10% of the surface area of ​​at least one of the first side surface and the second side surface of the first plate.

11. The plate component according to claim 1, characterized in that the dispersion density of the plurality of support structures increases from at least one end of the first side surface and the second side surface of the first plate to the other end of at least one of the first side surface and the second side surface of the first plate.

12. The plate component according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of support structures are distributed on the first side surface and configured to prevent expansion of the adjustment channel.

13. The plate component according to claim 1, further comprising a second plate, wherein the plurality of support structures are configured to engage with the second plate, and the second plate and the first side surface of the first plate define the adjustment channel.

14. The plate component according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of support structures are distributed on the second side surface and configured to prevent the discharge channel from being crushed.

15. The plate component according to claim 1, further comprising a second plate, wherein the plurality of support structures are configured to engage with the second plate, and the second plate and the second side surface of the first plate define the discharge channel.

16. The plurality of support structures are distributed on the first side and the second side of the first plate, respectively. The plate component according to claim 1, characterized in that at least a first portion of the plurality of support structures distributed on the first side surface is in cooperation with at least a second portion of the plurality of support structures distributed on the second side surface.

17. The plate component according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of support structures include airflow control elements configured to redirect at least one of the airflows in the discharge channel and the adjustment channel.

18. The plate component according to claim 17, characterized in that the airflow control elements are uniformly distributed with respect to the height of the first side surface.

19. The plate component according to claim 17, characterized in that the density of the airflow control elements is non-uniform along the height of the first side surface.

20. The plate component according to claim 17, characterized in that the airflow control elements are distributed on the first side surface of the first plate and are configured to distribute the airflow over the height of the adjustment channel.

21. The plate component according to claim 17, characterized in that the airflow control element is configured to engage with the second plate and change the direction of the airflow over the height of the discharge channel.

22. The plate component according to claim 1, further comprising a header configured to redirect at least a portion of the airflow passing through the adjustment channel to the discharge channel.

23. The plate component according to claim 1, characterized in that the second side surface is configured to direct the fluid flow so that it passes through the discharge channel.

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