Heat exchanger and refrigeration cycle device

Abstract

A heat exchanger (4) of the present embodiment comprises heat exchange tubes (30), headers (10), and a temperature sensor (40). A refrigerant circulates through the heat exchange tubes (30). One header (10) is connected to an end of the heat exchange tubes (30). The temperature sensor (40) measures the temperature of the refrigerant. At least one of the headers (10) includes an intermediate plate (14) and two end plates (11, 17). The intermediate plate (14) has formed therein one or a plurality of spatial flow channels (16) through which the refrigerant flows. The two end plates (11, 17) sandwich the intermediate plate (14) in the thickness direction. A mounting part (18) that positions at least a part of the temperature sensor (40) in the spatial flow channel (16) is provided to the header (10).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a heat exchanger and a refrigeration cycle apparatus. This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-74749, filed in Japan on April 27, 2021, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Heat exchangers are used in air conditioners, refrigeration equipment, and the like. For example, a heat exchanger includes a plurality of heat exchange tubes and a header. The heat exchange tubes have a refrigerant flow path. The header is provided at an end of the heat exchange tube.

[0003] In order to operate air conditioners, refrigeration equipment, etc. properly, the temperature of the refrigerant is sometimes measured in heat exchangers. For this purpose, a temperature sensor may be attached to the outer surface of the header. The temperature sensor may also be attached to the outer surface of a bypass pipe provided in the header.

[0004] However, in a heat exchanger having the above structure, there is a possibility that the accuracy of temperature measurement may be reduced due to the influence of disturbances such as outside air and condensation water. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-113983 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a heat exchanger and a refrigeration cycle device that are capable of measuring the temperature of a refrigerant with high accuracy. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The heat exchanger of the embodiment has a heat exchange tube, a header, and a temperature sensor. A refrigerant flows through the heat exchange tube. The header is connected to an end of the heat exchange tube. The temperature sensor measures the temperature of the refrigerant. At least one of the headers has an intermediate plate and two end plates. The intermediate plate is a heat exchanger through which the refrigerant flows. multiple A spatial flow path is formed. The two end plates sandwich the intermediate plate in the thickness direction. The header is provided with a mounting portion for disposing at least a portion of the temperature sensor within the spatial flow path. The mounting portion has a main body portion that houses the temperature sensor, and a closing plate that closes an opening at the back end of the main body portion. The multiple spatial flow paths include a first spatial flow path and a second spatial flow path located below the first spatial flow path. A first through hole and a second through hole are formed in one of the end plates. A first refrigerant port for introducing or discharging the refrigerant to the first spatial flow path is inserted into the first through hole. A second refrigerant port for introducing or discharging the refrigerant to the second spatial flow path is inserted into the second through hole. At least a part of the attachment portion provided in the second spatial flow path is located at a position overlapping with the second through hole when viewed from the thickness direction of the end plate. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a refrigeration cycle device according to an embodiment; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a heat exchanger according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first header and a temperature sensor. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the first header and the temperature sensor. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the first header and the temperature sensor. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the first header and the temperature sensor. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of a first modified example of the first header. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a second modified example of the first header and a temperature sensor. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a third modified example of the first header and a temperature sensor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, a heat exchanger and a refrigeration cycle device according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a refrigeration cycle device according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the refrigeration cycle apparatus 1 includes a compressor 2, a four-way valve 3, an outdoor heat exchanger (heat exchanger) 4, an expansion device 5, and an indoor heat exchanger (heat exchanger) 6. The components of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 1 are connected by piping 7. In Fig. 1, the flow direction of the refrigerant (heat medium) during cooling operation is indicated by solid arrows. The flow direction of the refrigerant during heating operation is indicated by dashed arrows.

[0011] The compressor 2 includes a compressor body 2A and an accumulator 2B. The compressor body 2A compresses the low-pressure gas refrigerant taken in to produce high-temperature, high-pressure gas refrigerant. The accumulator 2B separates the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant and supplies the gas refrigerant to the compressor body 2A.

[0012] The four-way valve 3 reverses the flow direction of the refrigerant to switch between cooling and heating operation. During cooling operation, the refrigerant flows through the compressor 2, the four-way valve 3, the outdoor heat exchanger 4, the expansion device 5, and the indoor heat exchanger 6 in that order. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 4 functions as a condenser, and the indoor heat exchanger 6 functions as an evaporator.

[0013] During heating operation, the refrigerant flows through the compressor 2, the four-way valve 3, the indoor heat exchanger 6, the expansion device 5, and the outdoor heat exchanger 4 in that order. At this time, the indoor heat exchanger 6 functions as a condenser, and the outdoor heat exchanger 4 functions as an evaporator.

[0014] The condenser converts the high-temperature, high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 2 into high-pressure liquid refrigerant by dissipating heat into the outside air and condensing it. The expansion device 5 reduces the pressure of the high-pressure liquid refrigerant sent from the condenser, converting it into a low-temperature, low-pressure two-phase gas-liquid refrigerant. The evaporator converts the low-temperature, low-pressure two-phase gas-liquid refrigerant sent from the expansion device 5 into a low-pressure gas refrigerant by absorbing heat from the outside air and vaporizing it.

[0015] In the refrigeration cycle device 1, the refrigerant, which is the working fluid, circulates while changing phase between gaseous refrigerant and liquid refrigerant. The refrigerant releases heat during the phase change from gaseous refrigerant to liquid refrigerant. The refrigerant absorbs heat during the phase change from liquid refrigerant to gaseous refrigerant. The refrigeration cycle device 1 performs heating, cooling, defrosting, etc. by utilizing the heat release or absorption of the refrigerant.

[0016] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a heat exchanger of an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the heat exchanger of the embodiment is used as one or both of the outdoor heat exchanger 4 and the indoor heat exchanger 6 (see Fig. 1) of the refrigeration cycle device 1. Hereinafter, a case where the heat exchanger of the embodiment is used as the outdoor heat exchanger 4 (see Fig. 1) of the refrigeration cycle device 1 will be described as an example.

[0017] The X, Y and Z directions are defined as follows: The Z direction is the longitudinal direction (extension direction) of the first and second headers. For example, the Z direction is the vertical direction. The +Z direction is the upward direction. The X direction is the central axial direction (extension direction) of the heat exchange tubes. For example, the X direction is the horizontal direction. The +X direction is the direction from the second header to the first header. The Y direction is the direction perpendicular to the X and Z directions. The YZ plane is the plane formed by the Y and Z directions.

[0018] The heat exchanger 4 has a first header 10, a second header 20, and a plurality of heat exchange tubes (heat transfer tubes) 30. The first header 10 is connected to the +X direction ends of the heat exchange tubes 30. The second header 20 is connected to the -X direction ends of the heat exchange tubes 30.

[0019] The first header 10 and the second header 20 are formed in a flat plate shape parallel to the YZ plane. In this embodiment, the first header 10 and the second header 20 are rectangular when viewed from the X direction. The first header 10 and the second header 20 are shaped like a rectangle with the longitudinal direction aligned with the Z direction. The first header 10 and the second header 20 are formed from a material with high thermal conductivity and low specific gravity. Examples of "materials with high thermal conductivity and low specific gravity" include metals such as aluminum and aluminum alloys.

[0020] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the first header 10. As shown in FIG. 3, the first header 10 includes an inner end plate (end plate) 11, an intermediate plate 14, and an outer end plate (end plate) 17. The inner end plate 11 and the outer end plate 17 sandwich the intermediate plate 14 in the thickness direction. The inner end plate 11 is disposed on the inner surface (second surface) side of the intermediate plate 14. That is, the inner end plate 11 is superimposed on the surface (second surface) of the intermediate plate 14 on the -X direction side. The outer end plate 17 is disposed on the outer surface (first surface) side of the intermediate plate 14. That is, the outer end plate 17 is superimposed on the surface (first surface) of the intermediate plate 14 on the +X direction side. The inner end plate 11, the intermediate plate 14, and the outer end plate 17 are rectangular.

[0021] The intermediate plate 14 has spatial flow paths 16 (16A to 16I). The spatial flow paths 16 serve as flow paths for the refrigerant. The spatial flow paths 16 are formed by through holes that penetrate the intermediate plate 14 in the thickness direction. The openings on the inner surface side of the spatial flow paths 16 are closed by the inner end plate 11. The openings on the outer surface side of the spatial flow paths 16 are closed by the outer end plate 17.

[0022] The spatial flow paths 16 include a first spatial flow path 16A to a ninth spatial flow path 16I. The first spatial flow path 16A has an elliptical shape when viewed from the X direction. The "elliptical shape" is a shape formed by two straight lines that are parallel and face each other, and a curved convex shape (e.g., a semicircular shape, an elliptical arc shape, etc.) that connects the ends of the two straight lines. The major axis direction of the first spatial flow path 16A is parallel to the Y direction. The first spatial flow path 16A is located at the highest position among the first spatial flow paths 16A to the ninth spatial flow paths 16I (i.e., located furthest on the +Z direction side).

[0023] The second spatial flow path 16B to the fifth spatial flow path 16E and the eighth spatial flow path 16H are rectangular when viewed from the X direction. For example, the second spatial flow path 16B to the fifth spatial flow path 16E and the eighth spatial flow path 16H are rectangular with rounded corners. The second spatial flow path 16B and the third spatial flow path 16C are located at a lower position than the first spatial flow path 16A (i.e., located on the -Z direction side of the first spatial flow path 16A). The second spatial flow path 16B and the third spatial flow path 16C are formed side by side in the Y direction with an interval therebetween. The third spatial flow path 16C is located on the +Y direction side of the second spatial flow path 16B.

[0024] The fourth spatial flow path 16D is located lower than the second spatial flow path 16B (i.e., located on the -Z direction side of the second spatial flow path 16B). The fifth spatial flow path 16E is located lower than the third spatial flow path 16C (i.e., located on the -Z direction side of the third spatial flow path 16C). The fourth spatial flow path 16D and the fifth spatial flow path 16E are formed side by side in the Y direction with an interval therebetween. The fifth spatial flow path 16E is located on the +Y direction side of the fourth spatial flow path 16D.

[0025] The sixth spatial flow path 16F is located lower than the fourth spatial flow path 16D (i.e., located on the -Z direction side of the fourth spatial flow path 16D). The seventh spatial flow path 16G is located lower than the sixth spatial flow path 16F (i.e., located on the -Z direction side of the sixth spatial flow path 16F). The sixth spatial flow path 16F and the seventh spatial flow path 16G are elliptical when viewed from the X direction. The major diameter direction of the sixth spatial flow path 16F and the seventh spatial flow path 16G is parallel to the Y direction. The eighth spatial flow path 16H is located lower than the fifth spatial flow path 16E (i.e., located on the −Z direction side of the fifth spatial flow path 16E). The eighth spatial flow path 16H is located on the +Y direction side of the sixth spatial flow path 16F and the seventh spatial flow path 16G.

[0026] The ninth spatial flow path 16I has an elliptical shape when viewed from the X direction. The major axis direction of the ninth spatial flow path 16I is parallel to the Y direction. The ninth spatial flow path 16I is located lower than the seventh spatial flow path 16G and the eighth spatial flow path 16H (i.e., the ninth spatial flow path 16I is located on the -Z direction side of the seventh spatial flow path 16G and the eighth spatial flow path 16H).

[0027] Two through holes 41, 41 are formed in the inner end plate 11 at a position corresponding to the first spatial flow path 16A. The two through holes 41, 41 are formed with a gap in the Y direction. Two through holes 41, 41 are formed in the inner end plate 11 at positions corresponding to the first spatial flow path 16A, the second spatial flow path 16B to the fifth spatial flow path 16E, and the eighth spatial flow path 16H, respectively. The two through holes 41, 41 are formed with a gap in the Z direction.

[0028] The inner end plate 11 is formed with one through hole 41 at each of positions corresponding to the sixth spatial flow path 16F and the seventh spatial flow path 16G. The inner end plate 11 is formed with two through holes 41, 41 at a position corresponding to the ninth spatial flow path 16I. The two through holes 41, 41 are formed with an interval between them in the Y direction.

[0029] The through-holes 41 are slit-shaped along the Y direction. The +X-direction ends of the heat exchange tubes 30 are inserted into the through-holes 41 (see FIG. 2). The +X-direction ends of the heat exchange tubes 30 open into the spatial flow paths 16 of the intermediate plate 14.

[0030] A through hole 42 is formed in the outer end plate 17 at a position corresponding to the sixth spatial flow path 16F. For example, the through hole 42 is circular. A tubular first refrigerant port 51 is inserted into the through hole 42 (see FIG. 2). The first refrigerant port 51 has a flow passage 51a (see FIG. 2) through which the refrigerant flows. An end of the first refrigerant port 51 opens into the sixth spatial flow path 16F. This opening serves as an inlet for introducing the refrigerant into the heat exchanger 4 or an outlet for discharging the refrigerant from the heat exchanger 4.

[0031] A through hole 43 is formed in the outer end plate 17 at a position corresponding to the seventh spatial flow path 16G. For example, the through hole 43 is circular and has the same size and shape as the through hole 42. A tubular second refrigerant port 52 is inserted into the through hole 43 (see FIG. 2). The second refrigerant port 52 has a flow passage 52a (see FIG. 2) through which the refrigerant flows. An end of the second refrigerant port 52 opens into the seventh spatial flow path 16G. This opening serves as an inlet for introducing the refrigerant into the heat exchanger 4 or an outlet for discharging the refrigerant from the heat exchanger 4.

[0032] For example, the center of the through hole 43 is at a height position corresponding to the center of the height of the seventh spatial flow path 16G (see FIG. 7). Therefore, in the through hole 43, the center of the flow passage 52a (see FIG. 2) of the second refrigerant port 52 is at a height position corresponding to the center of the height of the seventh spatial flow path 16G. The height position is a position in the Z direction.

[0033] When the refrigerant is introduced into the heat exchanger 4 through the refrigerant ports 51 and 52, the sixth spatial flow path 16F and the seventh spatial flow path 16G become "introduction spatial flow paths" through which the refrigerant is introduced. When the refrigerant is discharged through the refrigerant ports 51 and 52, the sixth spatial flow path 16F and the seventh spatial flow path 16G become "discharge spatial flow paths" through which the refrigerant is discharged.

[0034] A through hole 44 is formed in the outer end plate 17 at a position corresponding to the third spatial flow path 16C. For example, the through hole 44 is circular. The opening area of ​​the through hole 44 may be larger than the opening areas of the through holes 42 and 43. A tubular third refrigerant port 53 is inserted into the through hole 44 (see FIG. 2). An end of the third refrigerant port 53 opens into the third spatial flow path 16C. This opening serves as an inlet for introducing the refrigerant into the heat exchanger 4 or an outlet for discharging the refrigerant from the heat exchanger 4.

[0035] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the first header 10 and the temperature sensor 40. Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the first header 10 and the temperature sensor 40. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the first header 10 and the temperature sensor 40. Fig. 7 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the first header 10 and the temperature sensor 40.

[0036] As shown in Figs. 4 and 5, the intermediate plate 14 is provided with a mounting portion 18. The mounting portion 18 is tubular with a bottom. As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the mounting portion 18 includes a main body portion 18a and a closing plate 18b. The main body portion 18a is cylindrical. The central axis C1 of the main body portion 18a is along the Y direction. The closing plate 18b is provided at the inner end of the main body portion 18a. The closing plate 18b closes the opening at the inner end of the main body portion 18a. The mounting portion 18 can accommodate the temperature sensor 40. The inner diameter of the mounting portion 18 is approximately the same as or larger than the outer diameter of the temperature sensor 40. The mounting portion 18 is formed of a material with high thermal conductivity. Examples of materials with high thermal conductivity include metals such as aluminum and aluminum alloys.

[0037] The mounting portion 18 is inserted into an insertion hole 14b formed in the intermediate plate 14. The insertion hole 14b is formed penetrating from the side surface 14a of the intermediate plate 14 to the inner surface of the spatial flow path 16G. The mounting portion 18 is joined to the inner surface of the insertion hole 14b by brazing or the like.

[0038] The mounting portion 18 extends in the +Y direction from the side surface 14a of the intermediate plate 14 toward the seventh spatial flow path 16G (see FIGS. 2 and 3). The mounting portion 18 protrudes into the seventh spatial flow path 16G. The tip 18c of the mounting portion 18 is located within the seventh spatial flow path 16G. For example, the central axis C1 of the mounting portion 18 is at a height position (position in the Z direction) corresponding to the center of the height of the seventh spatial flow path 16G. Therefore, the distance L1 between the mounting portion 18 and the top surface of the seventh spatial flow path 16G is equal to the distance L2 between the mounting portion 18 and the bottom surface of the seventh spatial flow path 16G (see FIG. 7).

[0039] At least a part of the internal space of the attachment portion 18 is located within the seventh spatial flow path 16G. Therefore, the attachment portion 18 can dispose at least a part of the temperature sensor 40 within the seventh spatial flow path 16G. At least a part of the outer circumferential surface of the attachment portion 18 can come into contact with the refrigerant within the seventh spatial flow path 16G.

[0040] The temperature sensor 40 measures the temperature of the refrigerant. The temperature sensor 40 is not particularly limited, but a thermocouple, a thermistor, or the like can be used. For example, the temperature sensor 40 is cylindrical. The temperature sensor 40 is inserted into the mounting portion 18 with its central axis aligned along the Y direction. A cable 46 is connected to one end of the temperature sensor 40. The temperature sensor 40 detects the temperature and sends a detection signal to a control unit (not shown) through the cable 46.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 2, the second header 20 includes an inner end plate (end plate) 21, an intermediate plate 24, and an outer end plate (end plate) 27. The inner end plate 21 and the outer end plate 27 sandwich the intermediate plate 24 in the thickness direction. The inner end plate 21 is disposed on the inner surface side of the intermediate plate 24. That is, the inner end plate 21 is superimposed on the surface of the intermediate plate 24 on the +X direction side. The outer end plate 27 is disposed on the outer surface side of the intermediate plate 24. That is, the outer end plate 27 is superimposed on the surface of the intermediate plate 24 on the -X direction side. The inner end plate 21, the intermediate plate 24, and the outer end plate 27 are rectangular.

[0042] The intermediate plate 24 has spatial flow paths 26 (26A to 26H). The spatial flow paths 26 serve as flow paths for the refrigerant. The spatial flow paths 26 are formed by through holes that penetrate the intermediate plate 24 in the thickness direction. The openings on the inner surface side of the spatial flow paths 26 are closed by the inner end plate 21. The openings on the outer surface side of the spatial flow paths 26 are closed by the outer end plate 27.

[0043] The multiple spatial channels 26 include a first spatial channel 26A to an eighth spatial channel 26H. The first spatial channel 26A to the eighth spatial channel 26H are rectangular when viewed from the X direction. For example, the first spatial channel 26A to the eighth spatial channel 26H are rectangular with rounded corners.

[0044] The first spatial flow path 26A and the second spatial flow path 26B are formed side by side in the Y direction. The third spatial flow path 26C is located on the -Z direction side of the first spatial flow path 26A. The fourth spatial flow path 26D is located on the -Z direction side of the second spatial flow path 26B. The third spatial flow path 26C and the fourth spatial flow path 26D are formed side by side in the Y direction. The fifth spatial flow path 26E is located on the -Z direction side of the third spatial flow path 26C. The sixth spatial flow path 26F is located on the -Z direction side of the fourth spatial flow path 26D. The fifth spatial flow path 26E and the sixth spatial flow path 26F are formed side by side in the Y direction. The seventh spatial flow path 26G is located on the -Z direction side of the fifth spatial flow path 26E. The eighth spatial flow path 26H is located on the -Z direction side of the sixth spatial flow path 26F. The seventh spatial flow path 26G and the eighth spatial flow path 26H are formed side by side in the Y direction.

[0045] Two through holes 45, 45 are formed in the inner end plate 21 at positions corresponding to the first spatial flow path 26A to the eighth spatial flow path 26H. The through holes 45 are formed in the shape of slits parallel to the Y direction. An end of the heat exchange tube 30 is inserted into the through holes 45. The two through holes 45, 45 are formed with an interval in the Z direction. The through holes 45 are slit-shaped along the Y direction. The -X direction ends of the heat exchange tubes 30 are inserted into the through holes 41. The -X direction ends of the heat exchange tubes 30 open into the spatial flow paths 26 of the intermediate plate 24.

[0046] The heat exchange tube 30 is formed in a flat tubular shape. That is, the dimension of the heat exchange tube 30 in the Y direction is larger than the dimension in the Z direction. The shape of the cross section (YZ cross section) of the heat exchange tube 30 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is an ellipse. The heat exchange tube 30 extends in the X direction. A refrigerant flow path 34 is formed inside the heat exchange tube 30. A refrigerant flows through the refrigerant flow path 34. The heat exchange tube 30 is formed of a material having high thermal conductivity and low specific gravity. Examples of "materials having high thermal conductivity and low specific gravity" include metals such as aluminum and aluminum alloys.

[0047] At least some of the heat exchange tubes 30 are arranged in parallel with intervals in the Z direction. The +X direction ends of the heat exchange tubes 30 are inserted into through holes 41 formed in the first header 10 (see FIG. 3). As a result, the +X direction ends of the refrigerant flow paths 34 of the heat exchange tubes 30 open to the spatial flow paths 16 of the first header 10. Therefore, the spatial flow paths 16 communicate with the refrigerant flow paths 34 of the heat exchange tubes 30.

[0048] The -X direction end of the heat exchange tube 30 is inserted into the through hole 45 formed in the second header 20. As a result, the -X direction end of the refrigerant flow path 34 of the heat exchange tube 30 opens to the spatial flow path 26 of the second header 20. Therefore, the spatial flow path 26 communicates with the refrigerant flow path 34 of the heat exchange tube 30.

[0049] The gap between the first header 10 and the heat exchange tubes 30 and the gap between the second header 20 and the heat exchange tubes 30 are sealed by brazing or the like.

[0050] An outside air flow path is formed along the Y direction between vertically adjacent heat exchange tubes 30. The heat exchanger 4 circulates outside air through the outside air flow path by a blower fan (not shown) or the like. The heat exchanger 4 exchanges heat between the outside air flowing through the outside air flow path and the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 34. The heat exchange is performed indirectly via the heat exchange tubes 30.

[0051] 1 performs a cooling operation, the outdoor heat exchanger 4 functions as a condenser. In this case, the gas refrigerant flowing out of the compressor 2 flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 4.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 2, the refrigerant flows into the first header 10 from the first refrigerant port 51 and the second refrigerant port 52. The refrigerant that flows into the sixth spatial flow path 16F from the first refrigerant port 51 flows through the heat exchange tube 30 (30F) in the −X direction and flows into the lower part of the fifth spatial flow path 26E of the second header 20. The refrigerant flows from the upper part of the fifth spatial flow path 26E in the +X direction through the heat exchange tube 30 (30D2) and flows into the lower part of the fourth spatial flow path 16D of the first header 10. The refrigerant flows from the upper part of the fourth spatial flow path 16D in the −X direction through the heat exchange tube 30 (30D1) and flows into the lower part of the third spatial flow path 26C of the second header 20.

[0053] The refrigerant flows from the upper part of the third spatial flow path 26C through the heat exchange tube 30 (30B2) in the +X direction and flows into the lower part of the second spatial flow path 16B of the first header 10. The refrigerant flows from the upper part of the second spatial flow path 16B through the heat exchange tube 30 (30B1) in the -X direction and flows into the lower part of the first spatial flow path 26A of the second header 20. The refrigerant flows from the upper part of the first spatial flow path 26A through the heat exchange tube 30 (30A1) in the +X direction and flows into the first spatial flow path 16A of the first header 10. The refrigerant flows from the first spatial flow path 16A through the heat exchange tube 30 (30A2) in the -X direction and flows into the upper part of the second spatial flow path 26B of the second header 20. The refrigerant flows from the lower part of the second spatial flow path 26B through the heat exchange tube 30 (30C1) in the +X direction and flows into the third spatial flow path 16C of the first header 10. The coolant flows out from the third spatial flow passage 16C through the third coolant port 53.

[0054] The refrigerant that flows from the second refrigerant port 52 into the seventh spatial flow path 16G flows in the -X direction through the heat exchange tube 30 (30G) and flows into the upper part of the seventh spatial flow path 26G of the second header 20. The refrigerant flows from the lower part of the seventh spatial flow path 26G in the +X direction through the heat exchange tube 30 (30I1) and flows into the ninth spatial flow path 16I of the first header 10. The refrigerant flows from the ninth spatial flow path 16I in the -X direction through the heat exchange tube 30 (30I2) and flows into the lower part of the eighth spatial flow path 26H of the second header 20. The refrigerant flows from the upper part of the eighth spatial flow path 26H in the +X direction through the heat exchange tube 30 (30H2) and flows into the lower part of the eighth spatial flow path 16H of the first header 10.

[0055] The refrigerant flows from the upper part of the eighth spatial flow path 16H through the heat exchange tube 30 (30H1) in the -X direction and flows into the lower part of the sixth spatial flow path 26F of the second header 20. The refrigerant flows from the upper part of the sixth spatial flow path 26F through the heat exchange tube 30 (30E2) in the +X direction and flows into the lower part of the fifth spatial flow path 16E of the first header 10. The refrigerant flows from the upper part of the fifth spatial flow path 16E through the heat exchange tube 30 (30E1) in the -X direction and flows into the lower part of the fourth spatial flow path 26D of the second header 20. The refrigerant flows from the upper part of the fourth spatial flow path 26D through the heat exchange tube 30 (30C2) in the +X direction and flows into the third spatial flow path 16C of the first header 10. The refrigerant flows out of the third spatial flow path 16C through the third refrigerant port 53.

[0056] The gas refrigerant radiates heat to the outside air and condenses while flowing through the heat exchange tubes 30. The condensed refrigerant becomes a liquid refrigerant and flows out of the heat exchanger 4 from the third refrigerant port 53.

[0057] 1 performs heating operation, the refrigerant flows in the opposite direction to the above. That is, the liquid refrigerant flows from the third refrigerant port 53 into the third spatial flow path 16C, and the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flows out from the first refrigerant port 51 and the second refrigerant port 52.

[0058] In the heat exchanger 4 of the embodiment, the first header 10 is provided with an attachment portion 18. In the heat exchanger 4, the attachment portion 18 allows at least a portion of the temperature sensor 40 to be disposed within the spatial flow path 16. Therefore, the influence of disturbances such as outside air and condensed water can be reduced compared to when the temperature sensor is disposed on the outer surface of the header. In the heat exchanger 4, the influence of disturbances such as thermal interference within the header can be reduced compared to when the temperature sensor is disposed between adjacent spatial flow paths. Since the influence of disturbances can be reduced in the heat exchanger 4, the temperature of the refrigerant in the spatial flow path 16 can be measured with high accuracy.

[0059] In the heat exchanger 4 of the embodiment, a bypass pipe for attaching a temperature sensor is not required. Therefore, when the heat exchanger 4 is housed in a housing, the housing can be easily housed.

[0060] Since the mounting portion 18 is cylindrical to accommodate the temperature sensor 40, the distance between the mounting portion 18 and the temperature sensor 40 can be reduced. This allows the efficiency of heat conduction between the mounting portion 18 and the temperature sensor 40 to be improved. Since the mounting portion 18 protrudes into the spatial flow path 16, the refrigerant in the spatial flow path 16 can come into contact with the mounting portion 18. This allows the efficiency of heat conduction between the refrigerant and the mounting portion 18 to be improved. In this way, in the heat exchanger 4, the efficiency of heat conduction between the refrigerant in the spatial flow path 16, the mounting portion 18, and the temperature sensor 40 can be improved. This allows the accuracy of temperature measurement by the temperature sensor 40 to be improved.

[0061] When the heat exchanger is used as an evaporator, the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the head portion is an important control item in controlling the defrost cycle. In the heat exchanger 4 of the embodiment, the attachment portion 18 can dispose at least a part of the temperature sensor 40 in the seventh spatial flow path 16G. The seventh spatial flow path 16G is one of the inlet spatial flow paths or one of the outlet spatial flow paths. Therefore, in the heat exchanger 4, the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the first header 10 can be grasped, and the defrost cycle can be easily controlled.

[0062] In particular, the seventh spatial flow path 16G is more likely to frost because it is located at the lower of the two introduction spatial flow paths (the sixth spatial flow path 16F and the seventh spatial flow path 16G). Therefore, by measuring the refrigerant temperature in the seventh spatial flow path 16G, it is possible to perform defrosting control with high accuracy.

[0063] As a first comparative example, a heat exchanger in which a temperature sensor is installed on the outer surface of the first header is assumed. In this heat exchanger, the measurement of the refrigerant temperature may be affected by disturbances such as outside air and condensed water. Therefore, the measurement accuracy of the refrigerant temperature may be low.

[0064] As a second comparative example, a heat exchanger is assumed in which an insertion hole is formed between adjacent spatial channels and a temperature sensor is installed in the insertion hole. When measuring the temperature of the refrigerant in a specific spatial channel, this heat exchanger may be subject to thermal interference from the adjacent spatial channel. Therefore, the measurement accuracy of the refrigerant temperature may be reduced.

[0065] Next, a first modified example of the first header 10 will be described. Fig. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a first header 10A which is a first modified example of the first header 10. The same reference numerals are used for the configurations common to the first header 10, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 8, the first header 10A includes an inner end plate 11, a first spacer 161, an intermediate plate 14, a second spacer 162, and an outer end plate 17. The first spacer 161 is interposed between the inner end plate 11 and the intermediate plate 14. The second spacer 162 is interposed between the intermediate plate 14 and the outer end plate 17. For example, the spacers 161 and 162 are made of a metal such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The spacers 161 and 162 are rectangular. The spacers 161 and 162 are examples of "intermediate plates."

[0067] The first spacer 161 has spatial flow paths 116 (116A to 116I). The spatial flow paths 116 serve as paths for the coolant. The spatial flow paths 116 are formed by through holes that penetrate the first spacer 161 in the thickness direction. The first spatial flow paths 116A to ninth spatial flow paths 116I are positioned to overlap the first spatial flow paths 16A to ninth spatial flow paths 16I of the intermediate plate 14, respectively.

[0068] The second spacer 162 has spatial flow paths 216 (216C, 216F, 216G). The spatial flow paths 216 serve as paths for the coolant. The spatial flow paths 216 are formed by through holes that penetrate the second spacer 162 in the thickness direction. The first spatial flow path 216C is located at a position overlapping with the third spatial flow path 16C of the intermediate plate 14. The second spatial flow path 216F is located at a position overlapping with the sixth spatial flow path 16F of the intermediate plate 14. The third spatial flow path 216G is located at a position overlapping with the seventh spatial flow path 16G of the intermediate plate 14.

[0069] In the first header 10A, the first spacer 161 is interposed between the intermediate plate 14 and the inner end plate 11, so that the intermediate plate 14 and the inner end plate 11 can be arranged at a distance from each other. The second spacer 162 is interposed between the intermediate plate 14 and the outer end plate 17, so that the intermediate plate 14 and the outer end plate 17 can be arranged at a distance from each other. Therefore, thermal interference from the inner end plate 11 and the outer end plate 17 to the spatial flow path 16 of the intermediate plate 14 can be suppressed.

[0070] Although the first header 10A includes two spacers 161, 162, the first header of the embodiment may include only one of the two spacers 161, 162. Therefore, the first header may include a plate-shaped spacer between at least one of the two end plates and the intermediate plate.

[0071] Next, a second modified example of the first header 10 will be described. Fig. 9 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a first header 10B, which is the second modified example of the first header 10, and a temperature sensor 40. The same reference numerals are used for the configurations common to the first header 10, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0072] 9, in the first header 10B, the central axis C1 of the attachment portion 18 is located higher than the center of the height of the seventh spatial flow passage 16G. The attachment portion 18 is spaced apart from the top and bottom surfaces of the seventh spatial flow passage 16G. A distance L3 between the attachment portion 18 and the top surface of the seventh spatial flow passage 16G is smaller than a distance L4 between the attachment portion 18 and the bottom surface of the seventh spatial flow passage 16G.

[0073] The center C2 of the flow passage 52a at the tip of the second refrigerant port 52 is at a height position corresponding to the center of the height of the seventh spatial flow passage 16G. Therefore, the center C2 of the flow passage 52a of the second refrigerant port 52 is at a position lower than the central axis C1 of the attachment portion 18. Because the height of the center C2 of the flow passage 52a of the second refrigerant port 52 is different from the height of the central axis C1 of the attachment portion 18, the refrigerant flowing from the second refrigerant port 52 flows into the seventh spatial flow passage 16G toward a position off the center in the height direction of the attachment portion 18. Therefore, the flow of the refrigerant is not easily obstructed by the attachment portion 18. The attachment portion 18 is separated from the top surface of the seventh spatial flow path 16G, so that the attachment portion 18 is less susceptible to thermal interference from the top surface of the seventh spatial flow path 16G. The center C2 of the flow passage 52a of the second refrigerant port 52 may be located at a position higher than the central axis C1 of the attachment portion .

[0074] Although the heat exchanger and the refrigeration cycle device of the embodiment have been described above, the configuration of the embodiment is not limited to the above example. For example, the number of spatial flow paths formed in the head is not particularly limited. The number of spatial flow paths can be one or more (any number equal to or greater than two). In the first header 10 shown in FIG. 3, the number of intermediate plates is one, but the number of intermediate plates is not particularly limited. The number of intermediate plates can be one or more. The first header 10 and the second header 20 shown in FIG. 2 have a structure in which one intermediate plate and two end plates are stacked, but the number of end plates may be one.

[0075] In the heat exchanger 4 of the embodiment, the mounting portion 18 is provided in the insertion hole 14b penetrating from the side surface 14a of the intermediate plate 14 to the inner surface of the spatial flow path 16G (see Figs. 6 and 7), but the installation position of the mounting portion is not particularly limited. The mounting portion may be provided in the insertion hole penetrating the outer end plate from one surface to the other surface.

[0076] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first header 10C, which is a third modified example of the first header, and a temperature sensor 40. In the first header 10C, the mounting portion 118 is inserted into the insertion hole 14c penetrating the outer end plate 17 from one surface to the other surface. The mounting portion 118 is provided in a position along a direction intersecting the outer end plate 17. For example, the mounting portion 118 is oriented along the X direction. Therefore, the temperature sensor 40 is also provided in a position along a direction intersecting the outer end plate 17. The mounting portion 118 protrudes into the seventh spatial flow path 16G. At least a portion of the temperature sensor 40 is disposed in the seventh spatial flow path 16G.

[0077] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, since the header is provided with an attachment portion, at least a portion of the temperature sensor can be disposed within the spatial flow path. Therefore, the influence of disturbances such as outside air and condensed water can be reduced compared to when the temperature sensor is disposed on the outer surface of the header. In the heat exchanger of the embodiment, the influence of disturbances such as thermal interference within the header can be reduced compared to when the temperature sensor is disposed between adjacent spatial flow paths. In the heat exchanger of the embodiment, the influence of disturbances can be reduced, so that the temperature of the refrigerant in the spatial flow path can be measured with high accuracy.

[0078] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0079] 1...refrigeration cycle device, 4...outdoor heat exchanger (heat exchanger), 10, 10A, 10B, 10C...first header (header), 11...inner end plate (end plate), 14...intermediate plate, 16...space flow path, 16G...seventh space flow path (inlet space flow path), 17...outer end plate (end plate), 18, 118...mounting portion, 20...second header, 30...heat exchange tube, 34...refrigerant flow path, 40...temperature sensor, 52a...flow passage, 161...first spacer (intermediate plate), 162...second spacer (intermediate plate), C1...central axis, C2...center.

Claims

1. a heat exchange tube through which a refrigerant flows; a header connected to an end of the heat exchange tube; A temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the refrigerant; Equipped with At least one of the headers has an intermediate plate having a plurality of spatial flow paths through which the refrigerant flows, and two end plates sandwiching the intermediate plate in a thickness direction, the header is provided with an attachment portion for disposing at least a portion of the temperature sensor within the spatial flow path; the mounting portion has a main body portion that houses the temperature sensor and a closing plate that closes an opening at a rear end of the main body portion, the plurality of spatial channels include a first spatial channel and a second spatial channel located below the first spatial channel, a first through hole into which a first refrigerant port is inserted to introduce or discharge the refrigerant into or from the first spatial flow path, and a second through hole into which a second refrigerant port is inserted to introduce or discharge the refrigerant into or from the second spatial flow path, At least a part of the attachment portion provided in the second spatial flow path is located so as to overlap with the second through hole when viewed in a thickness direction of the end plate. heat exchanger.

2. The mounting portion is formed in a cylindrical shape to accommodate the temperature sensor and to protrude into the spatial flow path.

2. The heat exchanger of claim 1.

3. the attachment portion disposes at least a portion of the temperature sensor in an inlet spatial flow path into which the refrigerant is introduced, among the plurality of spatial flow paths; 3. A heat exchanger according to claim 1 or 2.

4. A plate-shaped spacer is interposed between at least one of the two end plates and the intermediate plate. A heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. a height position of a central axis of the mounting portion is different from a height position of a center of a flow passage that introduces the refrigerant into the introduction space flow path; 4. The heat exchanger according to claim 3.

6. A refrigeration cycle device comprising the heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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