Combined heat exchanger, heat exchange system

Abstract

To provide a composite type heat exchanger which can supply heat of a refrigerant to a first heat medium and a second heat medium while inhibiting complication of a cycle constitution, and to provide a heat exchange system.SOLUTION: A composite type heat exchanger 20 conducts heat exchange among a refrigerant circulating in a refrigeration cycle 10, a first heat medium flowing through a first heat medium circuit 60 including a first heating element 64, and a second heat medium flowing through a second heat medium circuit 70 including a second heating element 73. The composite type heat exchanger 20 includes: a refrigerant passage part 21 in which the refrigerant flows; a first heat medium passage part 22 in which the first heat medium flows; and a second heat medium passage part 23 in which the second heat medium flows. The refrigerant passage part 21, the first heat medium passage part 22, and the second heat medium passage part 23 are arranged so that heat of the refrigerant is transmitted to the first heat medium and the second heat medium.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a composite heat exchanger and a heat exchange system including the composite heat exchanger.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a vehicle cooling system, a cooling circuit of a running electrical equipment system and a vapor compression refrigeration cycle are connected by a heat exchanger, and a cooling medium in the cooling circuit is cooled by a refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle (for example, see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The inventors of the present invention have considered exchanging heat of a refrigerant in a refrigeration cycle with a first heat medium and a second heat medium flowing through different heat medium circuits. Such a configuration can be realized by adding a heat exchanger for exchanging heat between the refrigerant and the first heat medium and a heat exchanger for exchanging heat between the refrigerant and the second heat medium to the refrigeration cycle, but the cycle configuration of the refrigeration cycle becomes complicated. The complication of the cycle configuration is not preferable because it leads to an increase in cost and an increase in heat loss.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a composite heat exchanger and a heat exchange system capable of supplying heat of a refrigerant to a first heat medium and a second heat medium while suppressing complication of a cycle configuration.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] [[ID=4 | 6]]Claim 1 ~5 The invention described in A composite heat exchanger that exchanges heat between a refrigerant circulating in a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle (10), a first heat transfer medium flowing through a first heat transfer medium circuit (60) including a first heat-generating element (64), and a second heat transfer medium flowing through a second heat transfer medium circuit (70) including a second heat-generating element (73), A refrigerant flow path section (21) through which the refrigerant flows, A first heat transfer medium flow channel (22) through which the first heat transfer medium flows, It comprises a second heat transfer medium flow channel (23) through which the second heat transfer medium flows, The refrigerant flow path, the first heat transfer medium flow path, and the second heat transfer medium flow path are arranged so that the heat from the refrigerant is transferred to both the first and second heat transfer mediums. In the invention described in claim 1, the first heat transfer medium is a liquid-phase fluid that does not undergo a phase change when flowing through the first heat transfer medium circuit. The first heat transfer medium flow path is positioned adjacent to the refrigerant flow path so that the heat of the refrigerant is directly transferred to the first heat transfer medium. The second heat transfer medium flow path is positioned adjacent to the first heat transfer medium flow path so that the heat from the refrigerant is indirectly transferred to the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium. In the invention described in claim 2, the second heating element includes a battery (BT). In the invention described in claim 3, the second heating element includes a plurality of heating elements (BT, MG), The second heat transfer medium circuit is configured to transfer heat from some of the multiple heat-generating elements to the other heat-generating elements via the second heat transfer medium. In the invention described in claim 4, the second heat transfer medium is one that has higher electrical insulation properties than the first heat transfer medium. In the invention described in claim 5, the first heat transfer medium flow path includes a first heat exchange section (22A) for exchanging heat between the first heat transfer medium and the refrigerant, and a second heat exchange section (22B) for exchanging heat between the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium, and is configured so that the first heat transfer medium flows in the order of the first heat exchange section and the second heat exchange section.

[0007] According to this, a single heat exchanger can exchange heat between three types of fluids: a refrigerant, a first heat transfer medium, and a second heat transfer medium. Therefore, it is possible to supply heat from the refrigerant to the first and second heat transfer mediums while suppressing the complexity of the refrigeration cycle configuration.

[0008] Claim 12、 The invention described in 13 is, A heat exchange system that exchanges heat between a refrigerant circulating in a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle (10), a first heat transfer medium flowing through a first heat transfer medium circuit (60) including a first heat-generating element (64), and a second heat transfer medium flowing through a second heat transfer medium circuit (70) including a second heat-generating element (73), A composite heat exchanger (20) comprising a refrigerant flow path section (21) through which a refrigerant flows, a first heat transfer medium flow path section (22) through which a first heat transfer medium flows, and a second heat transfer medium flow path section (23) through which a second heat transfer medium flows, A flow rate adjustment unit (18, 61, 71, 74) for adjusting the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path section, the flow rate of the first heat medium flowing through the first heat medium flow path section, and the flow rate of the second heat medium flowing through the second heat medium flow path section. The refrigerant flow path section, the first heat medium flow path section, and the second heat medium flow path section are arranged such that the heat of the refrigerant is transferred to both the first heat medium and the second heat medium. In the invention described in claim 12, the first heat transfer medium flow path is arranged adjacent to the refrigerant flow path such that the heat of the refrigerant is directly transferred to the first heat transfer medium. The second heat transfer medium flow path is positioned adjacent to the first heat transfer medium flow path so that the heat from the refrigerant is indirectly transferred to the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium. When the flow rate adjustment unit enters an operating mode in which heat exchange occurs between the refrigerant and the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium, it increases the flow rate of the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium flow path. In the invention described in claim 13, the first heat transfer medium flow channel and the second heat transfer medium flow channel are arranged adjacent to each other such that heat from the first heat-generating element is transferred to the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium. When the system enters an operating mode in which heat from the first heat-generating element is transferred to the second heat transfer medium, the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path is reduced.

[0009] According to this, in a single heat exchanger, it is possible to adjust the flow rates of three types of fluids, such as a refrigerant, a first heat medium, and a second heat medium, while causing heat exchange with each other. Therefore, it is possible to supply the heat of the refrigerant to the first heat medium and the second heat medium while suppressing the complication of the cycle configuration of the refrigeration cycle.

[0010] The reference numerals with parentheses attached to each component etc. show an example of the correspondence relationship between the component etc. and the specific components etc. described in the embodiments described later.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011] [Figure 1] It is a schematic configuration diagram of a heat exchange system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a schematic front view of a composite heat exchanger according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] It is an explanatory diagram for explaining the flow directions of the refrigerant, the first heat medium, and the second heat medium in the composite heat exchanger. [Figure 4] It is an explanatory diagram for explaining battery cooling by the refrigerant. [Figure 5] It is an explanatory diagram for explaining battery heating using the heat of the first heat medium. [Figure 6] It is an explanatory diagram for explaining battery heating without using the heat of the first heat medium. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 6. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the composite heat exchanger 20 of the present disclosure is applied to a heat exchange system 1 for a vehicle. The heat exchange system 1 for a vehicle is installed, for example, in an electric vehicle that obtains driving force for vehicle operation from an electric motor. When the electric vehicle is stopped, it is possible to charge a large-capacity battery BT installed in the vehicle with power supplied from an external power source. The battery BT is a rechargeable secondary battery. The battery BT is composed of, for example, a lithium-ion battery that has high energy density, is lightweight and compact.

[0013] The heat exchange system 1 comprises a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle 10, a high-temperature side circuit 50, a first heat transfer medium circuit 60 including a first heat-generating element 64, a second heat transfer medium circuit 70 including a second heat-generating element 73, and a control unit 100. The heat exchange system 1 exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing through the refrigeration cycle 10, the high-temperature side heat transfer medium flowing through the high-temperature side circuit 50, the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium circuit 60, and the second heat transfer medium flowing through the second heat transfer medium circuit 70.

[0014] The refrigeration cycle 10 includes a compressor 11, a condenser 12, a liquid receiving section 13, a subcooling section 14, a first pressure reducing valve 15, an air conditioning evaporator 16, an evaporation pressure regulating valve 17, a second pressure reducing valve 18, and a combined heat exchanger 20.

[0015] The refrigeration cycle 10 employs a refrigerant with a low global warming potential, such as HFO-1234yf. The refrigerant contains refrigerant oil for lubricating the compressor 11. The refrigerant oil is, for example, one that is compatible with the liquid phase refrigerant, such as PAG oil. A portion of the refrigerant oil circulates within the refrigeration cycle 10 together with the refrigerant.

[0016] The compressor 11 is a device that compresses and discharges the refrigerant. The compressor 11 is an electric compressor driven by power supplied from the battery BT. The operation of the compressor 11 is controlled by a control signal output from the control unit 100.

[0017] A condenser 12 is connected to the refrigerant discharge side of the compressor 11. The condenser 12 is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant (hereinafter also called high-pressure refrigerant) discharged from the compressor 11 and the high-temperature heat transfer medium flowing through the high-temperature circuit 50, thereby releasing the heat from the high-pressure refrigerant to the high-temperature heat transfer medium. As the high-pressure refrigerant passes through the condenser 12, it releases heat to the high-temperature heat transfer medium and condenses.

[0018] The high-temperature side heat transfer medium is the fluid flowing through the high-temperature side circuit 50. The high-temperature side heat transfer medium is a liquid-phase fluid that does not undergo a phase change while flowing through the high-temperature side circuit 50. For example, the high-temperature side heat transfer medium may be a liquid containing ethylene glycol or an antifreeze liquid.

[0019] Here, the high-temperature side circuit 50 is a circuit for dissipating heat from the high-temperature side heat transfer medium to the outside or for heating the vehicle interior using the high-temperature side heat transfer medium. The high-temperature side circuit 50 is equipped with a high-temperature side pump 51, an electric heater 52, a high-temperature side radiator 53, a heater core 54, a high-temperature side switching valve 55, and a high-temperature side reserve tank 56.

[0020] The high-temperature pump 51 circulates the high-temperature heat transfer medium within the high-temperature circuit 50 by drawing it in and sending it toward the condenser 12. The high-temperature pump 51 is an electric pump driven by power supplied from the battery BT. The high-temperature pump 51 also functions as an adjustment means to regulate the flow rate of the high-temperature heat transfer medium flowing through the high-temperature circuit 50.

[0021] The electric heater 52 heats the high-temperature heat transfer medium. The electric heater 52 is an auxiliary heat source that heats the high-temperature heat transfer medium when the condenser 12 cannot sufficiently heat it. The energization state of the electric heater 52 is controlled by a control signal output from the control unit 100.

[0022] The high-temperature side radiator 53 dissipates heat from the high-temperature side heat transfer medium, which is heated in the condenser 12, by exchanging heat with the outside air outside the vehicle compartment. The high-temperature side radiator 53 is located, for example, on the front side in the direction of travel of the vehicle, and airflow flows into it when the vehicle is in motion.

[0023] The heater core 54 is positioned in parallel with the high-temperature side radiator 53 in the high-temperature side circuit 50. The heater core 54 is located inside the casing 41 of the air conditioning unit 40. The heater core 54 generates conditioned air at the desired temperature by exchanging heat between the high-temperature side heat transfer medium heated in the condenser 12 and the air blown into the passenger compartment.

[0024] The high-temperature side switching valve 55 is located at the branching point where the flow path of the high-temperature side heat transfer medium is divided into the high-temperature side radiator 53 side and the heater core 54 side. The high-temperature side switching valve 55 functions as a flow path switching unit that switches the flow path of the high-temperature side heat transfer medium. The high-temperature side circuit 50 can be switched by the high-temperature side switching valve 55 between a flow path in which the high-temperature side heat transfer medium heated in the condenser 12 flows to the heater core 54 and a flow path in which the high-temperature side heat transfer medium heated in the condenser 12 flows to the high-temperature side radiator 53. The high-temperature side switching valve 55 is composed of a solenoid valve and its operation is controlled by a control signal output from the control unit 100. In addition, the high-temperature side circuit 50 may be provided with a flow control valve instead of the high-temperature side switching valve 55. In this case, the flow control valve can be used to adjust the flow rate of the high-temperature side heat transfer medium flowing to the heater core 54 and the flow rate of the high-temperature side heat transfer medium flowing to the high-temperature side radiator 53 to an appropriate amount.

[0025] The high-temperature side reserve tank 56 is a tank for storing excess high-temperature side heat transfer fluid. The high-temperature side reserve tank 56 is located on the inlet side of the high-temperature side heat transfer fluid in the high-temperature side pump 51.

[0026] A liquid receiving section 13 is connected to the refrigerant outlet side of the condenser 12. The liquid receiving section 13 stores excess refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 10. The liquid receiving section 13 separates the gaseous and liquid phases of the refrigerant flowing out of the condenser 12 and discharges the separated liquid phase refrigerant downstream. The liquid receiving section 13 may be composed of either a receiver tank with the refrigerant inlet and outlet located at the top, or a modulator tank with the refrigerant inlet and outlet located at the bottom.

[0027] A subcooling section 14 is connected to the refrigerant outlet side of the liquid receiving section 13. The subcooling section 14 subcools the liquid phase refrigerant by exchanging heat with the high-temperature heat transfer medium before the liquid phase refrigerant flowing out from the liquid receiving section 13 flows into the condenser 12. In this embodiment, the condenser 12 and the subcooling section 14 constitute a "heat radiator" that dissipates heat from the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11.

[0028] On the refrigerant outlet side of the subcooling section 14, the refrigerant flow path is divided into two. A first pressure reducing valve 15 is connected to one of the flow paths on the refrigerant outlet side of the subcooling section 14, and a second pressure reducing valve 18 is connected to the other flow path.

[0029] The first pressure reducing valve 15 is a first pressure reducing unit that reduces the pressure of the refrigerant that has passed through the subcooling unit 14. The first pressure reducing valve 15 is an electrically operated variable throttle whose operation is controlled by a control signal output from the control unit 100, and it has a valve body and an electric actuator. The first pressure reducing valve 15 is configured as a variable throttle with a fully closed function that can substantially stop the flow of refrigerant.

[0030] An air conditioning evaporator 16 is connected to the refrigerant outlet side of the first pressure reducing valve 15. The air conditioning evaporator 16, together with the heater core 54, is located inside the casing 41 of the air conditioning unit 40. The air conditioning evaporator 16 evaporates the refrigerant, which has been reduced in pressure by the first pressure reducing valve 15, by exchanging heat with the air being blown into the vehicle interior. In the air conditioning evaporator 16, the air is cooled as the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air being blown into the vehicle interior and evaporates. The air that has passed through the air conditioning evaporator 16 passes through the heater core 54 and is then supplied into the vehicle interior as conditioned air.

[0031] An evaporation pressure regulating valve 17 is connected to the refrigerant outlet side of the air conditioning evaporator 16. The evaporation pressure regulating valve 17 is a pressure regulating unit that maintains the evaporation pressure of the refrigerant in the air conditioning evaporator 16 at or above a predetermined reference pressure. The evaporation pressure regulating valve 17 is configured to adjust the evaporation pressure of the refrigerant in the air conditioning evaporator 16 so that the temperature of the air conditioning evaporator 16 is such that frost formation in the air conditioning evaporator 16 is suppressed (for example, 1°C).

[0032] The second pressure reducing valve 18 is a second pressure reducing unit that reduces the pressure of the refrigerant that has passed through the subcooling unit 14. The second pressure reducing valve 18 is connected downstream of the subcooling unit 14 so as to be in parallel with the first pressure reducing valve 15. The second pressure reducing valve 18 is an electrically operated variable throttle whose operation is controlled by a control signal output from the control unit 100, and it has a valve body and an electric actuator. The second pressure reducing valve 18 is configured as a variable throttle with a fully closed function that can substantially stop the flow of refrigerant.

[0033] A combined heat exchanger 20 is connected to the refrigerant outlet side of the second pressure reducing valve 18. The combined heat exchanger 20 is a chiller that evaporates the refrigerant, which has been reduced in pressure by the second pressure reducing valve 18, by exchanging heat with at least one of the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium.

[0034] The combined heat exchanger 20 includes a refrigerant flow path section 21 through which the refrigerant flows, a first heat medium flow path section 22 through which the first heat medium flows, and a second heat medium flow path section 23 through which the second heat medium flows. The refrigerant flow path section 21, the first heat medium flow path section 22, and the second heat medium flow path section 23 are arranged so that the heat of the refrigerant is transferred to both the first heat medium and the second heat medium. The refrigerant flow path section 21 is an evaporation section that evaporates the refrigerant that has been depressurized by the second pressure reducing valve 18. The refrigerant flow path section 21 is designed so that the cold energy of the refrigerant is transferred to both the first heat medium and the second heat medium.

[0035] The first heat transfer medium flow path section 22 is positioned adjacent to the refrigerant flow path section 21 so that the heat of the refrigerant is directly transferred to the first heat transfer medium. The second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 is positioned adjacent to the first heat transfer medium flow path section 22 so that the heat of the refrigerant is indirectly transferred to the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium. Furthermore, the first heat transfer medium flow path section 22 and the second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 are positioned adjacent to each other so that the heat of the first heat generating element 64 is transferred to the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium. Details of the combined heat exchanger 20 will be described later.

[0036] The first heat transfer medium is the fluid flowing through the first heat transfer medium circuit 60. The first heat transfer medium is a liquid-phase fluid that does not undergo a phase change as it flows through the first heat transfer medium circuit 60. For example, the first heat transfer medium may be the same liquid as the high-temperature side heat transfer medium or an antifreeze liquid.

[0037] The first heat transfer circuit 60 includes in-vehicle equipment such as an inverter (INV) and a transaxle (T / A) as the first heat generating element 64. The first heat transfer circuit 60 is a circuit for adjusting the temperature of in-vehicle equipment using the first heat transfer fluid and for absorbing heat from the outside using the first heat transfer fluid. The first heat transfer circuit 60 is provided with a first circulation pump 61, a first reserve tank 62, a low-temperature side radiator 63, and a first heat generating element 64.

[0038] The first circulation pump 61 circulates the first heat transfer medium within the first heat transfer medium circuit 60 by drawing it in and sending it toward the composite heat exchanger 20. The first circulation pump 61 is an electric pump driven by power supplied from the battery BT. The first circulation pump 61 also functions as an adjustment means for adjusting the flow rate of the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium circuit 60.

[0039] The first reserve tank 62 is a tank for storing excess first heat transfer fluid. The first reserve tank 62 is located between the first circulation pump 61 and the first heat generating element 64.

[0040] The low-temperature side radiator 63 is connected to the outlet side of the first heat transfer medium in the combined heat exchanger 20. The low-temperature side radiator 63 absorbs heat from the outside air by exchanging heat between the first heat transfer medium, after it has passed through the combined heat exchanger 20, and the outside air outside the vehicle compartment. The low-temperature side radiator 63 is located, for example, together with the high-temperature side radiator 53, on the front side in the direction of vehicle travel. The high-temperature side radiator 53 and the low-temperature side radiator 63 are arranged in series in this order in the direction of outside air flow. The high-temperature side radiator 53 and the low-temperature side radiator 63 are connected to each other in a heat transfer manner by common heat transfer fins (not shown).

[0041] The first heat-generating element 64 is a heat-generating device such as an inverter (INV) or a transaxle (T / A). The first heat-generating element 64 is maintained at an appropriate temperature by dissipating heat to the first heat transfer medium. In other words, the first heat transfer medium circuit 60 absorbs heat from the first heat-generating element 64 via the first heat transfer medium. Note that the in-vehicle equipment constituting the first heat-generating element 64 may differ from those described above.

[0042] The second heat transfer medium is the fluid flowing through the second heat transfer medium circuit 70. The second heat transfer medium is a liquid-phase fluid that does not undergo a phase change as it flows through the second heat transfer medium circuit 70. For example, the second heat transfer medium is a liquid (e.g., oil) with higher electrical insulation properties than the first heat transfer medium. Depending on the type of battery BT, leakage current to the second heat transfer medium may be a concern, but because the second heat transfer medium is a liquid with high electrical insulation properties, leakage current through the second heat transfer medium is suppressed.

[0043] The second heat transfer circuit 70 is configured as a circuit independent of the first heat transfer circuit 60. The second heat transfer circuit 70 includes multiple heat-generating elements such as a battery BT and a motor generator MG as a second heat-generating element 73. The second heat transfer circuit 70 is a circuit for adjusting the temperature of the heat-generating elements, the battery BT and the motor generator MG, using the second heat transfer fluid. The second heat transfer circuit 70 is equipped with a second circulation pump 71, a second reserve tank 72, a second heat-generating element 73, and a flow path switching valve 74.

[0044] The second circulation pump 71 circulates the first heat transfer medium within the second heat transfer medium circuit 70 by drawing in the second heat transfer medium and sending it toward the battery BT. The second circulation pump 71 is an electric pump driven by power supplied from the battery BT. The second circulation pump 71 also functions as an adjustment means to adjust the flow rate of the second heat transfer medium flowing through the second heat transfer medium circuit 70.

[0045] The second reserve tank 72 is a tank for storing excess second heat transfer fluid. The second reserve tank 72 is located between the second circulation pump 71 and the flow path switching valve 74.

[0046] The second heat-generating element 73 is a heat-generating device such as a battery BT or a motor generator MG. The second heat-generating element 73 is maintained at an appropriate temperature by dissipating heat to the second heat transfer medium or by absorbing heat from the second heat transfer medium. The motor generator MG is arranged in parallel with the second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 in the second heat transfer medium circuit 70. Note that the in-vehicle equipment constituting the second heat-generating element 73 may differ from those described above.

[0047] The flow path switching valve 74 is a three-way valve that switches the flow path of the second heat transfer medium. The flow path switching valve 74 switches the flow path of the second heat transfer medium sent from the second circulation pump 71 between a flow path that goes from battery BT to the second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 of the combined heat exchanger 20, and a flow path that goes from battery BT to motor generator MG. The operation of the flow path switching valve 74 is controlled by a control signal output from the control unit 100. The second heat transfer medium circuit 70 is configured such that, with the flow path switching valve 74 provided, heat from the motor generator MG can be transferred to battery BT via the second heat transfer medium. Alternatively, the second heat transfer medium circuit 70 may be provided with a flow rate control valve instead of the flow path switching valve 74. In this case, the flow rate control valve can be used to adjust the flow rate of the second heat transfer medium flowing to the motor generator MG4 and the flow rate of the second heat transfer medium flowing to the combined heat exchanger 20 to an appropriate amount.

[0048] Next, the details of the combined heat exchanger 20 will be explained with reference to Figures 2 and 3. The arrows indicating up and down in Figures 2 and 3 indicate the vertical direction Dg when the combined heat exchanger 20 is mounted on a vehicle.

[0049] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the composite heat exchanger 20 is configured as a plate-stacked heat exchanger. The composite heat exchanger 20 is formed by stacking and joining a large number of plate-shaped members 24. The composite heat exchanger 20 is mounted on the vehicle in a position where the stacking direction Dst of the numerous plate-shaped members 24 intersects with the vertical direction Dg.

[0050] The numerous plate-like members 24 are elongated, roughly rectangular plate materials. Each plate-like member 24 is constructed by cladding both sides of a metal core made of an aluminum alloy or the like with brazing material. The core of each plate-like member 24 has a sacrificial layer formed on at least one side. The sacrificial layer is made of an aluminum alloy containing a predetermined proportion of a material that is electrically less noble than the core (for example, Zn). With this configuration, the sacrificial layer corrodes preferentially to the core, making it difficult for the core to corrode. As a result, the corrosion resistance of the composite heat exchanger 20 is improved.

[0051] Each plate-shaped member 24 has an overhang at its outer edge that protrudes to one side in the lamination direction Dst. Multiple plate-shaped members 24 are joined together by brazing at their overhangs when they are stacked on top of each other.

[0052] A number of plate-shaped members 24 are joined together in a stacked state to form a refrigerant flow path 21 through which the refrigerant flows, a first heat transfer medium flow path 22 through which the first heat transfer medium flows, and a second heat transfer medium flow path 23 through which the second heat transfer medium flows.

[0053] The refrigerant flow path section 21 has a plurality of refrigerant flow paths 211 formed between adjacent plate-shaped members 24, a refrigerant distribution section 212 that distributes refrigerant to the plurality of refrigerant flow paths 211, and a refrigerant collection section 213 that collects the refrigerant that has passed through the plurality of refrigerant flow paths 211. The plurality of refrigerant flow paths 211 are heat exchange sections that exchange heat between the refrigerant and the first heat transfer medium, and extend along the plate surface of the plate-shaped member 24. The refrigerant distribution section 212 and the refrigerant collection section 213 are formed by joining together substantially cylindrical cylindrical sections provided on the plate-shaped member 24. The refrigerant distribution section 212 and the refrigerant collection section 213 extend in the stacking direction Dst.

[0054] In the refrigerant flow path section 21, a refrigerant distribution section 212 is formed above the refrigerant flow path 211, and a refrigerant collection section 213 is formed below the refrigerant flow path 211. In this way, the refrigerant flow path section 21 is configured so that the refrigerant flows downward.

[0055] Specifically, the refrigerant flow path section 21 is composed of plate-shaped members 24 located on the other side of the stacking direction Dst among a number of plate-shaped members 24. The refrigerant flow path section 21 is positioned adjacent to the first heat medium flow path section 22 so that the heat of the refrigerant is directly transferred to the first heat medium. The refrigerant flow path section 21 is positioned so that the entire refrigerant flow path 211, which is the heat exchange portion, is in thermal contact with the first heat medium flow path section 22.

[0056] The second heat transfer medium flow channel section 23 includes a plurality of second heat transfer medium flow channels 231 formed between adjacent plate-shaped members 24, a second heat transfer medium distribution section 232 that distributes the second heat transfer medium to the second heat transfer medium flow channels 231, and a second heat transfer medium collection section 233 that collects the second heat transfer medium that has passed through the second heat transfer medium flow channels 231.

[0057] Multiple second heat transfer fluid channels 231 are heat exchange sections that exchange heat between the second heat transfer fluid and the first heat transfer fluid, and extend along the plate surface of the plate-shaped member 24. The second heat transfer fluid distribution section 232 and the second heat transfer fluid collection section 233 are formed by joining together substantially cylindrical tubular sections provided on the plate-shaped member 24. The second heat transfer fluid distribution section 232 and the second heat transfer fluid collection section 233 extend in the stacking direction Dst.

[0058] The second heat transfer medium flow channel 23 has a second heat transfer medium distribution section 232 formed below the second heat transfer medium flow channel 231, and a second heat transfer medium collection section 233 formed above the second heat transfer medium flow channel 231. In this way, the second heat transfer medium flow channel 23 is configured so that the second heat transfer medium flows upward.

[0059] Specifically, the second heat transfer medium flow channel 23 is composed of plate-shaped members 24 located on one side in the stacking direction Dst among a number of plate-shaped members 24. The second heat transfer medium flow channel 23 is positioned adjacent to the first heat transfer medium flow channel 22 so that the heat of the refrigerant is indirectly transferred through the first heat transfer medium. The second heat transfer medium flow channel 23 is positioned so that the entire second heat transfer medium flow channel 231, which is the heat exchange portion, is in thermal contact with the first heat transfer medium flow channel 22.

[0060] The first heat transfer medium flow channel section 22 has a plurality of first heat transfer medium flow channels 221 formed between adjacent plate-shaped members 24, a tank section 222 for distributing the first heat transfer medium to the plurality of first heat transfer medium flow channels 221 and for collecting the refrigerant that has passed through the plurality of first heat transfer medium flow channels 221.

[0061] Multiple first heat transfer fluid channels 221 are heat exchange sections that exchange heat between the first heat transfer fluid and a refrigerant or second heat transfer fluid, and extend along the plate surface of the plate-shaped member 24. The tank section 222 is formed by joining together substantially cylindrical tubular sections provided on the plate-shaped member 24. The tank section 222 extends in the stacking direction Dst.

[0062] The first heat transfer medium flow path section 22 includes a first heat exchange section 22A that exchanges heat between the first heat transfer medium and the refrigerant, and a second heat exchange section 22B that exchanges heat between the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium. The first heat transfer medium flow path section 22 is configured such that the first heat transfer medium flows in the order of the first heat exchange section 22A and then the second heat exchange section 22B.

[0063] The first heat exchange section 22A has first heat transfer fluid passages 221 and refrigerant passages 211 arranged alternately. The first heat transfer fluid passages 221 that make up the first heat exchange section 22A are configured so that the first heat transfer fluid flows upward. As a result, the refrigerant passage section 21 and the first heat transfer fluid passage section 22 have opposing flows between the refrigerant and the first heat transfer fluid.

[0064] The second heat exchange section 22B has a first heat transfer medium channel 221 and a second heat transfer medium channel 231 arranged alternately. The first heat transfer medium channel 221, which constitutes the second heat exchange section 22B, is configured so that the first heat transfer medium flows downward. As a result, in the first heat transfer medium channel section 22 and the second heat transfer medium channel section 23, the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium flow in opposing directions.

[0065] In the first heat transfer medium flow channel 22, the flow direction of the first heat transfer medium in the first heat exchange section 22A is opposite to the flow direction of the first heat transfer medium in the second heat exchange section 22B. In other words, the first heat transfer medium flow channel 22 has a structure in which the flow of the first heat transfer medium makes a U-turn.

[0066] In this embodiment, the combined heat exchanger 20 has a refrigerant flowing downward through the refrigerant flow path 21 and a second heat transfer medium flowing upward through the second heat transfer medium flow path 23. As a result, the refrigerant and the second heat transfer medium flow in the refrigerant flow path 21 and the second heat transfer medium flow path 23 are in opposing flow.

[0067] The heat exchange system 1, including the composite heat exchanger 20 configured in this way, is equipped with a control unit 100 for controlling various components, as shown in Figure 1. The control unit 100 consists of a microcomputer including a processor and memory, and its peripheral circuits. The control unit 100 performs various calculations and processes based on the control program stored in the memory. The memory of the control unit 100 is composed of a non-transitional physical storage medium.

[0068] The output side of the control unit 100 is connected to the compressor 11, the first pressure reducing valve 15, the second pressure reducing valve 18, the high-temperature side pump 51, the electric heater 52, the high-temperature side switching valve 55, the first circulation pump 61, the second circulation pump 71, the flow path switching valve 74, and the like.

[0069] The heat exchange system 1 can change the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path section 21, the flow rate of the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium flow path section 22, and the flow rate of the second heat transfer medium flowing through the second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 by changing the operation of the second pressure reducing valve 18, each circulation pump 61, 71, and the flow path switching valve 74. In this embodiment, the second pressure reducing valve 18, each circulation pump 61, 71, and the flow path switching valve 74 constitute a flow rate adjustment section that adjusts the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path section 21, the flow rate of the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium flow path section 22, and the flow rate of the second heat transfer medium flowing through the second heat transfer medium flow path section 23.

[0070] Although not shown in the diagram, the input side of the control unit 100 is connected to a group of sensors for air conditioning control and a group of sensors for equipment temperature control. In addition, various operation switches are connected to the input side of the control unit 100, and the operation signals of these operation switches are input to it.

[0071] The various control switches include the air conditioning switch and the room temperature adjustment switch. The air conditioning switch sets whether or not to cool the air using the air conditioning unit 40. The room temperature adjustment switch sets the desired temperature inside the vehicle.

[0072] The control unit 100 switches the operating mode of the heat exchange system 1 based on the sensor outputs of the sensor group for air conditioning control and the sensor group for equipment temperature control, as well as the operation signals of various operation switches.

[0073] The control unit 100 calculates, for example, the target outlet temperature of the conditioned air blown into the vehicle interior from the air conditioning unit 40, and switches the operating mode of the heat exchange system 1 to one of the following: cooling mode, heating mode, or dehumidifying heating mode, based on the target outlet temperature, etc.

[0074] The following explains how the cooling mode, heating mode, and dehumidifying heating mode work.

[0075] [Cooling mode] When the conditions for executing the cooling mode are met, the control unit 100 determines control signals to be output to various devices connected to the control unit 100, based on the target air outlet temperature, the sensor outputs of various sensor groups, etc.

[0076] The control unit 100, for example, drives the compressor 11, controls the first pressure reducing valve 15 to a throttled state, and controls the second pressure reducing valve 18 to a fully closed state. The control signal output to the first pressure reducing valve 15 is determined by the control unit 100 so that the superheat level on the refrigerant outlet side of the air conditioning evaporator 16 reaches a predetermined first target superheat level. The control unit 100 also drives the high-temperature pump 51 and controls the high-temperature switching valve 55 so that the high-temperature heat transfer medium flows to the high-temperature radiator 53.

[0077] In cooling mode, the refrigeration cycle 10 involves the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 flowing into the condenser 12. The refrigerant flowing into the condenser 12 dissipates heat to the high-temperature heat transfer medium flowing through the high-temperature circuit 50. This cools and condenses the refrigerant flowing through the condenser 12. The high-temperature heat transfer medium also dissipates heat to the outside air as it passes through the high-temperature radiator 53.

[0078] After passing through the condenser 12, the refrigerant is separated into gas and liquid phases in the liquid receiving section 13, and the excess liquid phase refrigerant in the cycle is stored inside the liquid receiving section 13. The liquid phase refrigerant stored in the liquid receiving section 13 is supercooled in the subcooling section 14 by exchanging heat with the high-temperature heat transfer medium before passing through the condenser 12.

[0079] The liquid-phase refrigerant that has passed through the supercooling section 14 is depressurized by the first pressure reducing valve 15. The refrigerant depressurized by the first pressure reducing valve 15 flows into the air conditioning evaporator 16, where it absorbs heat from the air being blown into the passenger compartment and evaporates. This cools the air being blown into the passenger compartment to the desired temperature. The refrigerant that has passed through the air conditioning evaporator 16 then flows to the suction side of the compressor 11 and is compressed again by the compressor 11.

[0080] As described above, in cooling mode, the refrigerant is exchanged with the air being blown into the vehicle interior by the air conditioning evaporator 16, thereby cooling the air being blown into the vehicle interior. This achieves cooling of the vehicle interior.

[0081] [Cooling of equipment in cooling mode] Here, when the conditions for cooling at least a portion of each heat-generating element 64, 73 are met in cooling mode, the control unit 100 drives at least one of the first circulation pump 61 and the second circulation pump 71, and controls the second pressure reducing valve 18 to a throttled state.

[0082] For example, when the conditions for cooling the first heat-generating element 64 are met, the control unit 100 stops the second circulation pump 71, drives the first circulation pump 61, and controls the second pressure reducing valve 18 to a throttled state. In this case, a portion of the refrigerant that has passed through the subcooling section 14 flows into the second pressure reducing valve 18 and is depressurized. The refrigerant depressurized by the second pressure reducing valve 18 absorbs heat from the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium flow path 22 in the refrigerant flow path section 21 of the combined heat exchanger 20 and evaporates. As a result, the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium circuit 60 is cooled. Then, the first heat-generating element 64 is cooled as the first heat transfer medium cooled in the combined heat exchanger 20 circulates through the first heat transfer medium circuit 60.

[0083] [Battery cooling in cooling mode] Furthermore, for example, when the battery cooling condition for cooling the battery BT of the second heat-generating element 73 is met, the control unit 100 drives the circulation pumps 61 and 71 and controls the second pressure reducing valve 18 to a throttled state. Also, as shown in Figure 4, the control unit 100 controls the flow path switching valve 74 so that the second heat transfer medium sent from the second circulation pump 71 flows in the order of battery BT → second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 of the composite heat exchanger 20. In addition, the control unit 100 controls the first circulation pump 61 so that the flow rate of the first heat transfer medium flowing through the composite heat exchanger 20 increases compared to before the battery cooling condition was met.

[0084] In this case, a portion of the refrigerant that has passed through the supercooling section 14 flows into the second pressure reducing valve 18 and is depressurized. The refrigerant depressurized in the second pressure reducing valve 18 absorbs heat from the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium flow path 22 in the refrigerant flow path section 21 of the combined heat exchanger 20 and evaporates. In addition, in the combined heat exchanger 20, the second heat transfer medium is cooled by heat exchange between the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium. As a result, the second heat transfer medium cooled in the combined heat exchanger 20 circulates through the second heat transfer medium circuit 70, thereby cooling the battery BT of the second heat generating element 73.

[0085] [Battery overheating in cooling mode] On the other hand, when the cooling mode is activated and the battery heating condition is met for heating the battery BT of the second heat-generating element 73, the control unit 100 heats the battery BT using the heat of the first heat transfer medium. The control unit 100 drives the circulation pumps 61 and 71, and controls the second pressure reducing valve 18 to a small throttle opening or fully closed state so that the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path section 21 of the combined heat exchanger 20 decreases. In addition, as shown in Figure 5, the control unit 100 controls the flow path switching valve 74 so that the second heat transfer medium sent from the second circulation pump 71 flows in the order of battery BT → second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 of the combined heat exchanger 20.

[0086] In this case, the first heat transfer medium, which has been heated by receiving heat from the first heat-generating element 64, flows into the first heat transfer medium flow path 22 of the combined heat exchanger 20. Since the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 21 is small, heat exchange between the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium is dominant in the combined heat exchanger 20. Therefore, the first heat transfer medium that has flowed into the first heat transfer medium flow path 22 dissipates heat through heat exchange with the second heat transfer medium flowing through the second heat transfer medium flow path 23. In other words, the second heat transfer medium flowing through the second heat transfer medium flow path 23 is heated by receiving heat from the first heat transfer medium. As a result, the second heat transfer medium, which has been heated in the combined heat exchanger 20, circulates through the second heat transfer medium circuit 70, heating the battery BT of the second heat-generating element 73.

[0087] [Heating mode] When the conditions for executing the heating mode are met, the control unit 100 determines control signals to be output to the various devices connected to the control unit 100, based on the target discharge temperature, the sensor outputs of the various sensor groups, etc.

[0088] The control unit 100, for example, drives the compressor 11, controls the first pressure reducing valve 15 to a fully closed state, and controls the second pressure reducing valve 18 to a throttled state. Regarding the control signal output to the second pressure reducing valve 18, the control unit 100 determines that the degree of superheating on the refrigerant outlet side of the composite heat exchanger 20 reaches a predetermined second target degree of superheating. The control unit 100 also drives the high-temperature pump 51 and controls the high-temperature switching valve 55 so that the high-temperature heat transfer medium flows to the heater core 54. Furthermore, the control unit 100 drives the first circulation pump 61 so that the first heat transfer medium flows to the low-temperature radiator 63.

[0089] In heating mode, the refrigeration cycle 10 involves the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 flowing into the condenser 12. The refrigerant flowing into the condenser 12 dissipates heat to the high-temperature heat transfer medium flowing through the high-temperature circuit 50. This cools and condenses the refrigerant flowing through the condenser 12. The high-temperature heat transfer medium then dissipates heat to the air blown into the vehicle interior via the heater core 54. This heats the air blown into the vehicle interior.

[0090] After passing through the condenser 12, the refrigerant is separated into gas and liquid phases in the liquid receiving section 13, and the excess liquid phase refrigerant in the cycle is stored inside the liquid receiving section 13. The liquid phase refrigerant stored in the liquid receiving section 13 is supercooled in the subcooling section 14 by exchanging heat with the high-temperature heat transfer medium before passing through the condenser 12.

[0091] The liquid-phase refrigerant that has passed through the supercooling section 14 is depressurized by the second pressure reducing valve 18. The refrigerant depressurized by the second pressure reducing valve 18 flows into the refrigerant flow path section 21 of the combined heat exchanger 20, absorbs heat from the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium flow path section 22, and evaporates. The refrigerant that has passed through the combined heat exchanger 20 then flows to the suction side of the compressor 11 and is compressed again by the compressor 11.

[0092] Here, the first heat transfer medium that has passed through the first heat transfer medium flow path 22 of the combined heat exchanger 20 absorbs heat from the outside air as it passes through the low-temperature side radiator 63. Therefore, the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 21 of the combined heat exchanger 20 absorbs heat from the outside air via the first heat transfer medium.

[0093] Furthermore, as the first heat transfer medium passes through the first heat-generating element 64, it also absorbs heat from the first heat-generating element 64. In this case, the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 21 of the combined heat exchanger 20 absorbs heat from the first heat-generating element 64 via the first heat transfer medium.

[0094] As described above, in heating mode, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 is released to the high-temperature heat transfer medium in the condenser 12 and the subcooling section 14, and the high-temperature heat transfer medium in the high-temperature circuit 50 is released to the air blown into the vehicle interior by the heater core 54, thereby heating the air blown into the vehicle interior. This achieves heating of the vehicle interior.

[0095] In heating mode, the first heat transfer medium flowing through the low-temperature radiator 63 absorbs heat from the outside air, which can cause frost to form on the low-temperature radiator 63. When frost forms on the low-temperature radiator 63, heat exchange between the first heat transfer medium and the outside air is restricted.

[0096] In contrast, the low-temperature side radiator 63 in this embodiment is connected to the high-temperature side radiator 53 via common heat transfer fins, allowing for heat transfer. Therefore, for example, when the vehicle is stopped after running the heating mode, the heat remaining in the high-temperature side heat transfer medium of the high-temperature side circuit 50 can be used to defrost the low-temperature side radiator 63.

[0097] [Battery cooling during heating mode] Furthermore, when the battery cooling condition is met in heating mode, which requires cooling the battery BT of the second heat-generating element 73, the control unit 100 drives the second circulation pump 71. The control unit 100 also controls the flow path switching valve 74 so that the second heat transfer medium sent from the second circulation pump 71 flows in the order of battery BT → second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 of the composite heat exchanger 20. In addition, the control unit 100 controls the first circulation pump 61 so that the flow rate of the first heat transfer medium flowing through the composite heat exchanger 20 increases compared to before the battery cooling condition was met.

[0098] In this case, the refrigerant, which has been depressurized by the second pressure reducing valve 18, absorbs heat from the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium flow path 22 in the refrigerant flow path 21 of the combined heat exchanger 20 and evaporates. In addition, in the combined heat exchanger 20, the second heat transfer medium is cooled by heat exchange between the first and second heat transfer mediums. As a result, the second heat transfer medium cooled in the combined heat exchanger 20 circulates through the second heat transfer medium circuit 70, thereby cooling the battery BT of the second heat generating element 73.

[0099] [Battery heating in heating mode] On the other hand, when the battery heating condition for heating the battery BT of the second heat-generating element 73 is met in heating mode, the control unit 100 heats the battery BT. As mentioned above, in heating mode, the combined heat exchanger 20 releases heat from the first heat transfer medium to the refrigerant. For this reason, in heating mode, it is conceivable that it may be difficult to sufficiently heat the battery BT using the heat of the first heat transfer medium.

[0100] Taking this into consideration, in heating mode, the control unit 100 heats the battery BT without using the heat from the first heat transfer medium. The control unit 100 drives the circulation pumps 61 and 71, and controls the second pressure reducing valve 18 to a throttled state. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the control unit 100 controls the flow path switching valve 74 so that the second heat transfer medium sent from the second circulation pump 71 flows in the order of battery BT → motor generator MG.

[0101] In this case, the second heat transfer medium, which has been heated by the motor generator MG, can be cooled by the battery BT. That is, the battery BT of the second heat-generating element 73 is heated by the second heat transfer medium, which has been heated by the motor generator MG.

[0102] Here, if the temperature of the first heat transfer medium after heat exchange with the refrigerant in the combined heat exchanger 20 is higher than the temperature of the battery BT, then battery heating using the heat of the first heat transfer medium becomes possible. In this case, battery heating using the heat of the first heat transfer medium may be performed, similar to the cooling mode. However, if the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the combined heat exchanger 20 is reduced in heating mode, the amount of heat absorbed by the refrigerant in the combined heat exchanger 20 will decrease. Therefore, in heating mode, it is desirable to control the second pressure reducing valve 18 so that the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the combined heat exchanger 20 does not decrease.

[0103] [Dehumidifying and heating mode] When the conditions for executing the dehumidifying heating mode are met, the control unit 100 determines control signals to be output to the various devices connected to the control unit 100, based on the target discharge temperature, the sensor outputs of various sensor groups, etc.

[0104] The control unit 100, for example, drives the compressor 11, controls the first pressure reducing valve 15 to a throttled state, and controls the second pressure reducing valve 18 to a fully closed state. The control signal output to the first pressure reducing valve 15 is determined by the control unit 100 so that the superheating level on the refrigerant outlet side of the air conditioning evaporator 16 reaches a predetermined third target superheating level. The control unit 100 also drives the high-temperature pump 51 and controls the high-temperature switching valve 55 so that the high-temperature heat transfer medium flows to the heater core 54.

[0105] In dehumidifying heating mode, the refrigeration cycle 10 involves the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 flowing into the condenser 12. The refrigerant flowing into the condenser 12 dissipates heat to the high-temperature heat transfer medium flowing through the high-temperature circuit 50. This cools and condenses the refrigerant flowing through the condenser 12. The high-temperature heat transfer medium then dissipates heat to the air blown into the vehicle interior via the heater core 54. This heats the air blown into the vehicle interior.

[0106] After passing through the condenser 12, the refrigerant is separated into gas and liquid phases in the liquid receiving section 13, and the excess liquid phase refrigerant in the cycle is stored inside the liquid receiving section 13. The liquid phase refrigerant stored in the liquid receiving section 13 is supercooled in the subcooling section 14 by exchanging heat with the high-temperature heat transfer medium before passing through the condenser 12.

[0107] The liquid-phase refrigerant that has passed through the supercooling section 14 is depressurized by the second pressure reducing valve 18. The refrigerant that has been depressurized by the first pressure reducing valve 15 flows into the air conditioning evaporator 16, where it absorbs heat from the air before it is heated by the heater core 54 and evaporates. This dehumidifies the air that is blown into the passenger compartment. The refrigerant that has passed through the air conditioning evaporator 16 then flows to the suction side of the compressor 11 and is compressed again by the compressor 11.

[0108] As described above, in dehumidifying heating mode, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 is transferred to the high-temperature heat transfer medium in the condenser 12 and the subcooling section 14, and the high-temperature heat transfer medium in the high-temperature circuit 50 is transferred to the air blown into the vehicle interior by the heater core 54. In addition, in dehumidifying heating mode, the refrigerant, which has been depressurized by the first pressure reducing valve 15, is evaporated by heat exchange with the air blown into the vehicle interior in the air conditioning evaporator 16. As a result, the air dehumidified in the air conditioning evaporator 16 can be heated in the heater core 54 and blown into the vehicle interior.

[0109] [Equipment cooling during dehumidifying heating mode] In this case, when the dehumidifying heating mode is in operation, if the conditions for cooling at least a portion of each heat-generating element 64, 73 are met, the control unit 100 drives at least one of the first circulation pump 61 and the second circulation pump 71, and controls the second pressure reducing valve 18 to a throttled state.

[0110] For example, when the conditions for cooling the first heat-generating element 64 are met, the control unit 100 stops the second circulation pump 71, drives the first circulation pump 61, and controls the second pressure reducing valve 18 to a throttled state. In this case, a portion of the refrigerant that has passed through the subcooling section 14 flows into the second pressure reducing valve 18 and is depressurized. The refrigerant depressurized by the second pressure reducing valve 18 absorbs heat from the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium flow path 22 in the refrigerant flow path section 21 of the combined heat exchanger 20 and evaporates. As a result, the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium circuit 60 is cooled. Then, the first heat-generating element 64 is cooled as the first heat transfer medium cooled in the combined heat exchanger 20 circulates through the first heat transfer medium circuit 60.

[0111] Furthermore, for example, when the battery cooling condition is met for cooling the battery BT of the second heat-generating element 73, the control unit 100 drives the circulation pumps 61 and 71 and controls the second pressure reducing valve 18 to a throttled state. The control unit 100 also controls the flow path switching valve 74 so that the second heat transfer medium sent from the second circulation pump 71 flows in the order of battery BT → second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 of the composite heat exchanger 20. In addition, the control unit 100 controls the first circulation pump 61 so that the flow rate of the first heat transfer medium flowing through the composite heat exchanger 20 increases compared to before the battery cooling condition was met.

[0112] In this case, a portion of the refrigerant that has passed through the supercooling section 14 flows into the second pressure reducing valve 18 and is depressurized. The refrigerant depressurized in the second pressure reducing valve 18 absorbs heat from the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium flow path 22 in the refrigerant flow path section 21 of the combined heat exchanger 20 and evaporates. In addition, in the combined heat exchanger 20, the second heat transfer medium is cooled by heat exchange between the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium. As a result, the second heat transfer medium cooled in the combined heat exchanger 20 circulates through the second heat transfer medium circuit 70, thereby cooling the battery BT of the second heat generating element 73.

[0113] [Battery heating during dehumidifying heating mode] On the other hand, when the dehumidifying heating mode is activated and the battery heating condition for heating the battery BT of the second heat-generating element 73 is met, the control unit 100 heats the battery BT using the heat of the first heat transfer medium, similar to the cooling mode. The control unit 100 drives the circulation pumps 61 and 71, and controls the second pressure reducing valve 18 to a small throttle opening or fully closed state so that the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path section 21 of the combined heat exchanger 20 decreases. The control unit 100 also controls the flow path switching valve 74 so that the second heat transfer medium sent from the second circulation pump 71 flows in the order of battery BT → second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 of the combined heat exchanger 20.

[0114] In this case, the first heat transfer medium, which has been heated by receiving heat from the first heat-generating element 64, flows into the first heat transfer medium flow path 22 of the combined heat exchanger 20. The first heat transfer medium that has flowed into the first heat transfer medium flow path 22 dissipates heat through heat exchange with the second heat transfer medium flowing through the second heat transfer medium flow path 23. As a result, the second heat transfer medium flowing through the second heat transfer medium flow path 23 receives heat from the first heat transfer medium and is heated. Then, the second heat transfer medium, which has been heated in the combined heat exchanger 20, circulates through the second heat transfer medium circuit 70, thereby heating the battery BT of the second heat-generating element 73.

[0115] The heat exchange system 1 described above includes a combined heat exchanger 20 that exchanges heat between a refrigerant circulating in a refrigeration cycle 10, a first heat transfer medium flowing through a first heat transfer medium circuit 60 including a first heat-generating element 64, and a second heat transfer medium flowing through a second heat transfer medium circuit 70 including a second heat-generating element 73. The combined heat exchanger 20 includes a refrigerant flow path section 21 through which the refrigerant flows, a first heat transfer medium flow path section 22 through which the first heat transfer medium flows, and a second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 through which the second heat transfer medium flows. The refrigerant flow path section 21, the first heat transfer medium flow path section 22, and the second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 are arranged so that the heat from the refrigerant is transferred to both the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium.

[0116] The combined heat exchanger 20 of this disclosure allows for the heat exchange of three types of fluids, a refrigerant, a first heat transfer medium, and a second heat transfer medium, in a single heat exchanger. Therefore, it is possible to supply heat from the refrigerant to the first and second heat transfer mediums while suppressing the complexity of the cycle configuration of the refrigeration cycle 10. The combined heat exchanger 20 of this disclosure enables cost reduction and miniaturization. In addition, the compact cycle configuration and circuit configuration enable heat loss reduction.

[0117] Furthermore, the composite heat exchanger 20 of this embodiment includes the following features.

[0118] (1) The first heat transfer medium is a liquid-phase fluid that does not undergo a phase change when flowing through the first heat transfer medium circuit 60. The first heat transfer medium flow path section 22 is positioned adjacent to the refrigerant flow path section 21 so that the heat of the refrigerant is directly transferred to the first heat transfer medium. The second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 is positioned adjacent to the first heat transfer medium flow path section 22 so that the heat of the refrigerant is indirectly transferred to the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium. In this way, if the structure is designed to transfer the heat of the refrigerant to the first heat transfer medium, which is a liquid-phase fluid with a large heat capacity, or to transfer the heat of the refrigerant to the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium, the heat of the refrigerant can be appropriately supplied to both the first and second heat transfer mediums.

[0119] (2) The first heat transfer medium flow path section 22 and the second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 are arranged adjacent to each other so that the heat from the first heat-generating element 64 is transferred to the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium. With this arrangement, it is possible to adjust the temperature of the second heat-generating element 73 not only by using the heat from the refrigerant but also by using the heat from the first heat-generating element 64. This cannot be achieved by adding a heat exchanger for heat exchange between the refrigerant and the first heat transfer medium and a heat exchanger for heat exchange between the refrigerant and the second heat transfer medium to the refrigeration cycle 10, and is an effect unique to this invention.

[0120] (3) The refrigeration cycle 10 includes a compressor 11 that compresses and discharges a refrigerant, a condenser 12 and a subcooling section 14 that dissipate heat from the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11, and a second pressure reducing valve 18 that reduces the pressure of the refrigerant that has passed through the subcooling section 14. The refrigerant flow path section 21 constitutes an evaporation section that evaporates the refrigerant that has been reduced in pressure by the second pressure reducing valve 18. The refrigerant flow path section 21 is configured so that the cold energy of the refrigerant is transferred to both the first heat medium and the second heat medium. This makes it possible to appropriately cool the first heat-generating element 64 and the second heat-generating element 73 by absorbing heat from the first heat medium and the second heat medium through the latent heat of vaporization of the refrigerant.

[0121] (4) The first heat transfer medium circuit 60 is provided with a low-temperature side radiator 63 that exchanges heat between the first heat transfer medium and the outside air. This allows heat from the outside air and the first heat-generating element 64 to be transferred to the refrigerant via the first heat transfer medium, and enables the refrigeration cycle 10 to function as a heat pump cycle that absorbs heat from the outside air, etc.

[0122] (5) The second heat-generating element 73 includes a battery BT as a heat-generating element. With this, the temperature of the battery BT can be adjusted by utilizing the heat of the refrigerant or the heat of the first heat transfer medium.

[0123] (6) The second heat-generating element 73 includes multiple heat-generating elements such as a battery BT and a motor generator MG. The second heat transfer medium circuit 70 is configured to transfer heat from some of the multiple heat-generating elements to the other heat-generating elements via the second heat transfer medium. As a result, the second heat transfer medium circuit 70 can use the heat from some of the multiple heat-generating elements to adjust the temperature of the other heat-generating elements.

[0124] Specifically, the second heat transfer medium circuit 70 is provided with a flow path switching valve 74 for switching between a flow path that directs the second heat transfer medium, sent from the second circulation pump 71, to the battery BT → second heat transfer medium flow path section 23, and a flow path that directs the second heat transfer medium, sent from the second circulation pump 71, to the battery BT → motor generator MG. As a result, the second heat transfer medium circuit 70 is capable of adjusting the temperature of the battery BT not only by utilizing the heat of the refrigerant and the heat of the first heat transfer medium, but also by utilizing the heat of a heat-generating element such as the motor generator MG.

[0125] (7) The second heat transfer medium is made of a material with higher electrical insulation properties than the first heat transfer medium. This suppresses leakage current from the second heat-generating element 73 via the second heat transfer medium, so that the temperature of the battery BT and other components contained in the second heat-generating element 73 can be safely adjusted via the second heat transfer medium.

[0126] (8) The refrigerant flow path section 21 is adjacent to the first heat transfer medium flow path section 22 so that the heat of the refrigerant is directly transferred to the first heat transfer medium, and the entire heat exchange portion of the refrigerant flow path section 21 is arranged to be in thermal contact with the first heat transfer medium flow path section 22. This makes it possible to promote heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path section 21 and the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium flow path section 22.

[0127] In this embodiment, the refrigerant flow path section 21 is configured as an evaporation section for evaporating the refrigerant. Its structure promotes heat exchange between the refrigerant and the first heat transfer medium, making it easier to evaporate the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path section 21. As a result, liquid backflow to the compressor 11 is suppressed, protecting the compressor 11.

[0128] (9) The first heat transfer fluid flow path section 22 has a first heat exchange section 22A that exchanges heat between the first heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant, and a second heat exchange section 22B that exchanges heat between the first heat transfer fluid and the second heat transfer fluid, and is configured so that the first heat transfer fluid flows in the order of the first heat exchange section 22A and the second heat exchange section 22B. With this configuration, the entire amount of the first heat transfer fluid flows through both the first heat exchange section 22A and the second heat exchange section 22B. As a result, the amount of heat exchange between the refrigerant and the first heat transfer fluid in the first heat exchange section 22A and the amount of heat exchange between the first heat transfer fluid and the second heat transfer fluid in the second heat exchange section 22B can be sufficiently secured.

[0129] (10) The refrigerant contains refrigerant oil. The refrigerant flow path section 21 is configured so that the refrigerant flows downward. This prevents the refrigerant oil from accumulating in the combined heat exchanger 20. As a result, the sliding parts of the compressor 11 can be lubricated by the refrigerant oil, thereby protecting the compressor 11.

[0130] (11) The refrigerant flow path section 21 and the first heat transfer fluid flow path section 22 are arranged so that the refrigerant and the first heat transfer fluid flow in opposite directions. Furthermore, the first heat transfer fluid flow path section 22 and the second heat transfer fluid flow path section 23 are arranged so that the first heat transfer fluid and the second heat transfer fluid flow in opposite directions. This ensures that a temperature difference is maintained between the refrigerant and the first heat transfer fluid, and between the first heat transfer fluid and the second heat transfer fluid, thereby enabling proper heat exchange between the refrigerant, the first heat transfer fluid, and the second heat transfer fluid.

[0131] (12) In addition to the combined heat exchanger 20, the heat exchange system 1 includes a flow rate adjustment unit that adjusts the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 21, the flow rate of the first heat medium flowing through the first heat medium flow path 22, and the flow rate of the second heat medium flowing through the second heat medium flow path 23. The refrigerant flow path 21, the first heat medium flow path 22, and the second heat medium flow path 23 are arranged so that the heat of the refrigerant is transferred to both the first and second heat mediums. With this, a single heat exchanger can adjust the flow rates of three types of fluids, the refrigerant, the first heat medium, and the second heat medium, and allow them to exchange heat with each other. Therefore, the heat of the refrigerant can be supplied to the first and second heat mediums while suppressing the complexity of the cycle configuration of the refrigeration cycle 10.

[0132] (13) The first heat transfer medium flow path section 22 is positioned adjacent to the refrigerant flow path section 21 so that the heat of the refrigerant is directly transferred to the first heat transfer medium. The second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 is positioned adjacent to the first heat transfer medium flow path section 22 so that the heat of the refrigerant is indirectly transferred to the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium. When the flow rate adjustment section enters an operating mode in which heat exchange occurs between the refrigerant and the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium, it increases the flow rate of the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium flow path section 22. This ensures sufficient heat exchange between the refrigerant and the first heat transfer medium and between the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium. This contributes to improving the heat transfer efficiency in the combined heat exchanger 20.

[0133] When the heat exchange system 1 enters an operating mode in which it uses the cold energy of the refrigerant to cool the second heat-generating element 73, the control unit 100 increases the discharge capacity of the first heat medium in the first circulation pump 61, thereby increasing the flow rate of the first heat medium flowing through the first heat medium flow path 22. This makes it easier for the cold energy of the refrigerant to be transferred to the second heat-generating element 73 via the first and second heat mediums, thereby enabling proper cooling of the second heat-generating element 73.

[0134] (14) The first heat transfer medium flow path section 22 and the second heat transfer medium flow path section 23 are arranged adjacent to each other so that the heat from the first heat-generating element 64 is transferred to the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium. When the flow rate adjustment section enters an operating mode in which the heat from the first heat-generating element 64 is transferred to the second heat transfer medium, the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path section 21 is reduced. In this manner, the heat from the first heat-generating element 64 can be appropriately transferred to the second heat transfer medium while suppressing heat exchange between the first heat transfer medium and the refrigerant. This contributes to improving the heat transfer efficiency in the combined heat exchanger 20.

[0135] When the heat exchange system 1 enters an operating mode in which it uses the heat of the first heat transfer medium to heat the second heat-generating element 73, the control unit 100 controls the second pressure reducing valve 18 to a small throttle opening or to a fully closed state, thereby reducing the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 21. As a result, the heat of the first heat transfer medium is more easily transferred to the second heat transfer medium rather than the refrigerant, so that the second heat-generating element 73 can be heated appropriately.

[0136] (Other embodiments) While representative embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above and can be modified in various ways, for example, as follows.

[0137] The air conditioning evaporator 16 of the refrigeration cycle 10 described above is configured to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the air supplied to the vehicle interior, but it is not limited to this configuration. For example, it may be configured to exchange heat between the refrigerant and a low-temperature heat transfer medium that exchanges heat with the air supplied to the vehicle interior in the cooler core. The refrigerant used in the refrigeration cycle 10 may be something other than HFO-1234yf. The first pressure reducing valve 15 and the air conditioning evaporator 16 in the refrigeration cycle 10 are not essential. The liquid receiving section 13 and the subcooling section 14 in the refrigeration cycle 10 are not essential. The refrigeration cycle 10 may have an accumulator for storing liquid-phase refrigerant on the refrigerant suction side of the compressor 11. Each pressure reducing valve 15, 18 may not be an electrically operated variable throttle with a fully closing function, but rather, for example, a temperature-controlled expansion valve that can adjust the degree of superheating of the refrigerant at the evaporator outlet.

[0138] In the high-temperature side circuit 50 described above, the high-temperature side radiator 53 and the heater core 54 are connected in parallel in the flow of the high-temperature side heat transfer medium. However, the circuit is not limited to this configuration, and for example, the high-temperature side radiator 53 and the heater core 54 may be connected in series in the flow of the high-temperature side heat transfer medium.

[0139] The high-temperature heat transfer medium flowing through the high-temperature circuit 50 may consist of a fluid other than a liquid containing ethylene glycol or an antifreeze liquid. The electric heater 52 in the high-temperature circuit 50 is not essential.

[0140] The first heat transfer medium circuit 60 described above is exemplified as including an inverter INV and a transaxle T / A as the first heat generating element 64, but it may also include other heat generating equipment (e.g., an ECU). The first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium circuit 60 may be composed of a fluid other than a liquid containing ethylene glycol or an antifreeze liquid. The first heat transfer medium may be, for example, the same as the refrigerant flowing through the refrigeration cycle 10, or the same as the second heat transfer medium flowing through the second heat transfer medium circuit 70.

[0141] Here, it is desirable that the high-temperature side radiator 53 and the low-temperature side radiator 63 are connected to each other by common heat transfer fins so that heat can be transferred between them, but this is not required. Note that the low-temperature side radiator 63 of the first heat transfer medium circuit 60 is not essential.

[0142] The second heat transfer medium circuit 70 described above is exemplified as including a battery BT and a motor generator MG as the second heat generating element 73, but it may also include other heat generating equipment (e.g., an ECU). The second heat transfer medium flowing through the second heat transfer medium circuit 70 is preferably one with high electrical insulation properties, but is not limited to this. The second heat transfer medium may be, for example, the same as the refrigerant flowing through the refrigeration cycle 10, or the same as the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium circuit 60.

[0143] The composite heat exchanger 20 described above is exemplified as a plate-laminated type heat exchanger composed of a large number of plate-shaped members 24 stacked together, but it is not limited to this, and may be configured as a multi-tube type heat exchanger having a shell and a large number of heat transfer tubes, for example.

[0144] The combined heat exchanger 20 is preferably structured such that, as in the above-described embodiment, the first heat medium and the refrigerant directly exchange heat, the first heat medium and the second heat medium directly exchange heat, and the refrigerant and the second heat medium indirectly exchange heat via the first heat medium, but is not limited to this. For example, the combined heat exchanger 20 may be structured such that the first heat medium and the second heat medium directly exchange heat, the second heat medium and the refrigerant directly exchange heat, and the first heat medium and the refrigerant indirectly exchange heat via the second heat medium.

[0145] The refrigerant flow path section 21 of the combined heat exchanger 20 is configured as an evaporation section that evaporates the refrigerant reduced in pressure by the second pressure reducing valve 18, but is not limited to this, and may also be configured as a condensation section that condenses the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11. It is desirable that the entire heat exchange portion of the refrigerant flow path section 21 of the combined heat exchanger 20 be in thermal contact with the first heat transfer medium flow path section 22, but is not required. It is desirable that the refrigerant flow path section 21 be configured so that the refrigerant flows downward, but is not limited to this. The refrigerant flow path section 21 may be configured so that the refrigerant flows downward at least in the portion connected to the refrigerant outlet. In addition, the refrigerant flow path section 21 may be configured so that the refrigerant flows upward or sideways.

[0146] The combined heat exchanger 20 is preferably configured such that the refrigerant and the first heat transfer medium flow in opposite directions, but is not limited to this, and may be configured such that the refrigerant and the first heat transfer medium flow in parallel or in a direct alternating current. Furthermore, the combined heat exchanger 20 is preferably configured such that the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium flow in opposite directions, but is not limited to this, and may be configured such that the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium flow in parallel or in a direct alternating current.

[0147] As described in the above-described embodiment, it is desirable that the heat exchange system 1 allows for arbitrary adjustment of the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 21, the flow rate of the first heat medium flowing through the first heat medium flow path 22, and the flow rate of the second heat medium flowing through the second heat medium flow path 23, but it is not limited to this. The heat exchange system 1 may be configured such that at least one of the flow rates of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 21, the flow rate of the first heat medium flowing through the first heat medium flow path 22, and the flow rate of the second heat medium flowing through the second heat medium flow path 23 cannot be arbitrarily adjusted.

[0148] As described in the above embodiment, it is desirable that the heat exchange system 1 increases the flow rate of the first heat medium flowing through the first heat medium flow path 22 when it enters an operating mode in which it exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the second heat medium via the first heat medium, but it is not required to do so. Also, it is desirable that the heat exchange system 1 decreases the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 21 when it enters an operating mode in which it transfers the heat of the first heat generating element 64 to the second heat medium, but it is not required to do so.

[0149] In the above-described embodiment, a composite heat exchanger 20 was illustrated as being applied to a heat exchange system 1 for a vehicle. However, the composite heat exchanger 20 is not limited to systems for mobile devices, but can also be applied to stationary systems or portable systems, for example.

[0150] In the embodiments described above, it goes without saying that the elements constituting the embodiments are not necessarily essential, except in cases where they are explicitly stated to be essential or where they are clearly considered essential in principle.

[0151] In the embodiments described above, if numerical values ​​such as the number, numerical values, quantities, or ranges of the components of the embodiment are mentioned, the embodiment is not limited to those specific numbers unless explicitly stated as particularly essential or clearly limited to a specific number in principle.

[0152] In the embodiments described above, when referring to the shape, positional relationships, etc. of the components, the definition is not limited to those shapes, positional relationships, etc., unless otherwise specifically stated or when the definition is fundamentally limited to a particular shape, positional relationship, etc.

[0153] The control unit and its method of this disclosure may be implemented in a dedicated computer provided by configuring a processor and memory programmed to perform one or more functions embodied by a computer program. The control unit and its method of this disclosure may be implemented in a dedicated computer provided by configuring a processor by one or more dedicated hardware logic circuits. The control unit and its method of this disclosure may be implemented in one or more dedicated computers configured by a combination of a processor and memory programmed to perform one or more functions and a processor configured by one or more hardware logic circuits. The computer program may also be stored as instructions executed by the computer on a computer-readable non-transitional tangible recording medium. [Explanation of symbols]

[0154] 1. Heat exchange system 10 Refrigeration Cycle 20 Combined heat exchanger 21 Refrigerant flow path section 22 First heat transfer fluid channel section 23 Second heat transfer fluid channel section 60 1st heat carrier circuit 64. First exothermic element 70 Second heat carrier circuit 73 Second exothermic element

Claims

1. A composite heat exchanger that exchanges heat between a refrigerant circulating in a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle (10), a first heat transfer medium flowing through a first heat transfer medium circuit (60) including a first heat-generating element (64), and a second heat transfer medium flowing through a second heat transfer medium circuit (70) including a second heat-generating element (73), The refrigerant flow path section (21) through which the refrigerant flows, The first heat transfer medium flow channel (22) through which the first heat transfer medium flows, The system comprises a second heat transfer medium flow path section (23) through which the second heat transfer medium flows, The refrigerant flow path, the first heat transfer medium flow path, and the second heat transfer medium flow path are arranged such that the heat of the refrigerant is transferred to both the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium. The first heat transfer medium is a liquid-phase fluid that does not undergo a phase change when flowing through the first heat transfer medium circuit. The first heat transfer medium flow path is arranged adjacent to the refrigerant flow path so that the heat of the refrigerant is directly transferred to the first heat transfer medium. A composite heat exchanger in which the second heat transfer medium flow path is arranged adjacent to the first heat transfer medium flow path such that the heat of the refrigerant is indirectly transferred to the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium.

2. A composite heat exchanger that exchanges heat between a refrigerant circulating in a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle (10), a first heat transfer medium flowing through a first heat transfer medium circuit (60) including a first heat-generating element (64), and a second heat transfer medium flowing through a second heat transfer medium circuit (70) including a second heat-generating element (73), The refrigerant flow path section (21) through which the refrigerant flows, The first heat transfer medium flow channel (22) through which the first heat transfer medium flows, The system comprises a second heat transfer medium flow path section (23) through which the second heat transfer medium flows, The refrigerant flow path, the first heat transfer medium flow path, and the second heat transfer medium flow path are arranged such that the heat of the refrigerant is transferred to both the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium. A composite heat exchanger in which the second heat-generating element includes a battery (BT).

3. A composite heat exchanger that exchanges heat between a refrigerant circulating in a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle (10), a first heat transfer medium flowing through a first heat transfer medium circuit (60) including a first heat-generating element (64), and a second heat transfer medium flowing through a second heat transfer medium circuit (70) including a second heat-generating element (73), The refrigerant flow path section (21) through which the refrigerant flows, The first heat transfer medium flow channel (22) through which the first heat transfer medium flows, The system comprises a second heat transfer medium flow path section (23) through which the second heat transfer medium flows, The refrigerant flow path, the first heat transfer medium flow path, and the second heat transfer medium flow path are arranged such that the heat of the refrigerant is transferred to both the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium. The second heating element includes multiple heating elements (BT, MG), The second heat transfer medium circuit is configured to transfer heat from some of the multiple heat-generating elements to other heat-generating elements via the second heat transfer medium, and is a composite heat exchanger.

4. A composite heat exchanger that exchanges heat between a refrigerant circulating in a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle (10), a first heat transfer medium flowing through a first heat transfer medium circuit (60) including a first heat-generating element (64), and a second heat transfer medium flowing through a second heat transfer medium circuit (70) including a second heat-generating element (73), The refrigerant flow path section (21) through which the refrigerant flows, The first heat transfer medium flow channel (22) through which the first heat transfer medium flows, The system comprises a second heat transfer medium flow path section (23) through which the second heat transfer medium flows, The refrigerant flow path, the first heat transfer medium flow path, and the second heat transfer medium flow path are arranged such that the heat of the refrigerant is transferred to both the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium. A composite heat exchanger in which the second heat transfer medium has higher electrical insulation properties than the first heat transfer medium.

5. A composite heat exchanger that exchanges heat between a refrigerant circulating in a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle (10), a first heat transfer medium flowing through a first heat transfer medium circuit (60) including a first heat-generating element (64), and a second heat transfer medium flowing through a second heat transfer medium circuit (70) including a second heat-generating element (73), The refrigerant flow path section (21) through which the refrigerant flows, The first heat transfer medium flow channel (22) through which the first heat transfer medium flows, The system comprises a second heat transfer medium flow path section (23) through which the second heat transfer medium flows, The refrigerant flow path, the first heat transfer medium flow path, and the second heat transfer medium flow path are arranged such that the heat of the refrigerant is transferred to both the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium. The first heat transfer medium flow path includes a first heat exchange section (22A) for exchanging heat between the first heat transfer medium and the refrigerant, and a second heat exchange section (22B) for exchanging heat between the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium, and is configured such that the first heat transfer medium flows in the order of the first heat exchange section and the second heat exchange section, in a composite heat exchanger.

6. The composite heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first heat transfer medium flow channel and the second heat transfer medium flow channel are arranged adjacent to each other so that heat from the first heat-generating element is transferred to the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium.

7. The refrigeration cycle includes a compressor (11) that compresses and discharges the refrigerant, radiators (12, 14) that dissipate heat from the refrigerant discharged from the compressor, and a pressure reducing unit (18) that reduces the pressure of the refrigerant that has passed through the radiators. The composite heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the refrigerant flow path section constitutes an evaporation section for evaporating the refrigerant that has been depressurized in the depressurization section, and the cold energy of the refrigerant is transferred to both the first heat medium and the second heat medium.

8. The composite heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first heat transfer medium circuit is provided with a radiator (63) for exchanging heat between the first heat transfer medium and the outside air.

9. The composite heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the refrigerant flow path is adjacent to the first heat medium flow path so that the heat of the refrigerant is directly transferred to the first heat medium, and the entire heat exchange portion in the refrigerant flow path is arranged to be in thermal contact with the first heat medium flow path.

10. The aforementioned refrigerant contains refrigerant oil. The composite heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the refrigerant flow path is configured such that the refrigerant flows downward.

11. The refrigerant flow path and the first heat transfer medium flow path are arranged such that the refrigerant and the first heat transfer medium flow in opposite directions. The composite heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first heat transfer medium flow channel and the second heat transfer medium flow channel are arranged such that the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium flow in opposite directions.

12. A heat exchange system that exchanges heat between a refrigerant circulating in a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle (10), a first heat transfer medium flowing through a first heat transfer medium circuit (60) including a first heat-generating element (64), and a second heat transfer medium flowing through a second heat transfer medium circuit (70) including a second heat-generating element (73), A composite heat exchanger (20) comprising a refrigerant flow path (21) through which the refrigerant flows, a first heat transfer medium flow path (22) through which the first heat transfer medium flows, and a second heat transfer medium flow path (23) through which the second heat transfer medium flows, The system includes flow rate adjustment units (18, 61, 71, 74) that adjust the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path, the flow rate of the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium flow path, and the flow rate of the second heat transfer medium flowing through the second heat transfer medium flow path. The refrigerant flow path, the first heat transfer medium flow path, and the second heat transfer medium flow path are arranged such that the heat of the refrigerant is transferred to both the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium. The first heat transfer medium flow path is arranged adjacent to the refrigerant flow path so that the heat of the refrigerant is directly transferred to the first heat transfer medium. The second heat transfer medium flow path is arranged adjacent to the first heat transfer medium flow path such that the heat of the refrigerant is indirectly transferred to the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium. The flow rate adjustment unit increases the flow rate of the first heat medium flowing through the first heat medium flow path when the system enters an operating mode in which heat is exchanged between the refrigerant and the second heat medium via the first heat medium.

13. A heat exchange system that exchanges heat between a refrigerant circulating in a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle (10), a first heat transfer medium flowing through a first heat transfer medium circuit (60) including a first heat-generating element (64), and a second heat transfer medium flowing through a second heat transfer medium circuit (70) including a second heat-generating element (73), A composite heat exchanger (20) comprising a refrigerant flow path (21) through which the refrigerant flows, a first heat transfer medium flow path (22) through which the first heat transfer medium flows, and a second heat transfer medium flow path (23) through which the second heat transfer medium flows, The system includes flow rate adjustment units (18, 61, 71, 74) that adjust the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path, the flow rate of the first heat transfer medium flowing through the first heat transfer medium flow path, and the flow rate of the second heat transfer medium flowing through the second heat transfer medium flow path. The refrigerant flow path, the first heat transfer medium flow path, and the second heat transfer medium flow path are arranged such that the heat of the refrigerant is transferred to both the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium. The first heat transfer medium channel and the second heat transfer medium channel are arranged adjacent to each other such that heat from the first heat generating element is transferred to the second heat transfer medium via the first heat transfer medium. The flow rate adjustment unit is a heat exchange system that, when in an operating mode that transfers heat from the first heat-generating element to the second heat transfer medium, reduces the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path.

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