Heat exchanger arrangement for securing to an appliance wall

Abstract

The invention relates to a heat exchanger arrangement (10) for securing to an appliance wall, comprising a housing (12), there being formed in the housing a main flow path (18) in which a liquid heat exchanger (20) is arranged, the main flow path (18) also having arranged in it an air fan (16) which guides the air flow over the liquid heat exchanger (20). The invention is characterized in that there is provided an overpressure flap (50) which, in the event of an overpressure, permits an opening in front of the liquid heat exchanger (20) and in front of the air fan (16), and hence forms a bypass to the main flow path (18).

Description

[0001] This patent application is the national phase entry of PCT / EP2020 / 074956, international application filing date Sep. 7, 2020, which claims the benefit and priority of and to German patent application no. 10 2019 124 005.0, filed Sep. 6, 2019.

[0002] PCT / EP2020 / 074956, international application filing date Sep. 7, 2020 and German patent application no. 10 2019 124 005.0, filed Sep. 6, 2019 are incorporated herein by reference hereto in their entireties.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The invention relates to a heat exchanger arrangement for attachment to the wall of an appliance.

[0004] It is known that the indoor climate is affected, especially at certain points, by the temperature input from appliances located in a room.

[0005] DE 20 2016 105 077 U1 discloses a heat exchanger arrangement for appliances, in particular laboratory equipment. As disclosed in this specification, a hose is used to connect heat exchangers to an exhaust area of a laboratory apparatus in order to cool down the exhaust air thus introduced into the room. A similar design is also disclosed in DE 41 11 333 A1, in which the exhaust air of an appliance is discharged via a duct system and, after it has been cooled down, is reintroduced into the room.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] It is the object of the invention to provide a heat exchanger arrangement that is of a compact design and can, in particular, be easily retrofitted so as to prevent the room temperature from being thermally charged by the warm exhaust air exiting the appliance, in particular a laboratory apparatus.

[0007] This object is accomplished by the features of claim 1.

[0008] The dependent claims relate to advantageous further embodiments of the invention.

[0009] According to the invention, the heat exchanger arrangement comprises a housing that has a main flow path formed therein in which a liquid heat exchanger is arranged. In a known manner, the liquid heat exchanger has an inlet for the cooling fluid and an outlet for the cooling fluid heated by the exhaust air. Preferably, the heated cooling fluid is cooled down outside of the laboratory room. Furthermore, an air conveyor is arranged in the main flow path, which air conveyor acts to pass the air flow through the liquid heat exchanger. In addition, an overpressure flap is provided to allow opening of the main flow path—in the direction of flow—upstream of the heat exchanger and upstream of the air conveyor in the event of overpressure in the main flow path. By means of the overpressure flap, a bypass is formed from the main flow path, which makes it possible to bypass the air conveyor and the liquid heat exchanger. This positive pressure setting will ensure that the exhaust air from the appliance is safely discharged into the room even if the air conveyor fails, thus allowing decentralized use directly on the appliance, since even in the event of a failure of the air conveyor, heat buildup in the appliance can be reliably avoided, and the appliance can be operated in the same way as it would be operated without the heat exchanger arrangement being turned on.

[0010] In addition, fastening means are provided to secure the heat exchanger to the wall of the appliance. The fastening means and the housing are designed in such a way that one heat exchanger arrangement each is assigned to an air outlet area and / or an air inlet area of a laboratory apparatus.

[0011] This will minimize the amounts of heat to be processed by each heat exchanger even if an appliance has a plurality of air discharge areas. As a result, cooling by means of the liquid heat exchanger will only require a minimum amount of energy. The formation of condensation water during cooling can thus be prevented to the greatest extent possible.

[0012] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a drip tray may be provided which is adapted to absorb condensation water formed on the liquid heat exchanger, with an air guide element being furthermore provided to cause air to be branched off upstream of the liquid heat exchanger and to be passed over the drip tray, resulting in any moisture in the drip tray to be absorbed by the air flow and released back into the room air.

[0013] This creates a means of decentralized cooling of the exhaust air from the appliance in a room, which can be retrofitted to existing equipment, and which can also be used in critical environments, since the solution described above will not affect the humidity of the air.

[0014] Preferably, the housing has fastening means with which the housing can be detachably fastened to the wall of an appliance without the use of tools. This eliminates the need for re-certification of the overall appliance when used with the heat exchanger arrangement.

[0015] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the fastening means are at least partially formed as hooks. Such hooks can be suspended in inspection openings as are often provided on laboratory apparatus.

[0016] The fastening means may also comprise fastening means that are designed as Velcro elements. This allows the heat exchanger arrangement to be easily attached or removed as needed.

[0017] The air guide element is preferably formed from a metal sheet with perforations made therein, which metal sheet is set to be inclined with respect to the main flow path, so as to achieve an improved distribution of the air flow. Preferably, the drip tray may be designed such that, when mounted, it will be disposed underneath the liquid cooler. This makes it very easy to collect any dripping water that may be present.

[0018] The drip tray may have an air baffle in the direction of the outlet of the heat exchanger arrangement, which baffle in particular terminates downstream of the outlet, so that the air flow directed over the drip tray will be recombined with the main air flow.

[0019] A heat exchanger arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the openings and the main flow path and the air conveyor are matched to one another in such a way that a volume flow will be directed over the drip tray that is less than 20% of the volume flow of the main flow path. In this way, any condensation water that may be present can be reliably absorbed by the room air, thus ensuring that the exhaust air is cooled down to the greatest possible extent.

[0020] The overpressure flap is preferably set to open at a pressure that corresponds to the dynamic pressure when the air conveyor is not in operation. This ensures that exhaust air can be removed reliably via the overpressure flap even in the event of an appliance failure.

[0021] The overpressure flap is designed in particular as a flap that is adapted to be rotated about an axis and has its inflow surface and its weight chosen such that it will be opened automatically by the incoming air at the desired overpressure, but will provide substantial sealing in operation.

[0022] The overpressure flap preferably rests on an air outlet plate which is arranged diagonally opposite the main flow path, so that under the influence of the weight force, the overpressure flap will cover the air outlet plate.

[0023] Furthermore, the invention relates to an arrangement for the decentralized cooling of room air comprising at least one heat exchanger arrangement of the type described above, a liquid cooler connected to the heat exchanger arrangement via a connecting line.

[0024] In particular, the air conveyor and the liquid heat exchanger are arranged such that the liquid heat exchanger is disposed on the suction side of the air conveyor. This results in a compact design as regards depth, which is advantageous for attachment to an existing laboratory apparatus,

[0025] Furthermore, the invention relates to a cooling system comprising at least one, in particular several, heat exchanger arrangement(s) of the type specified above, a cooling unit for cooling a cooling fluid conducted through the liquid heat exchanger, and a connecting line for connecting the liquid heat exchanger to the heat exchanger arrangement, wherein the at least one heat exchanger arrangement is located in a room, wherein the cooling unit discharges the warm exhaust air to outside the room, in particular the cooling unit is located outside the room.

[0026] More specifically, the connecting line comprises at least one fluid conduct for conducting the cooling fluid and at least one connection terminal having connecting pieces for connection to the liquid heat exchanger of the heat exchanger arrangement. As a result, a liquid heat exchanger of a heat exchanger arrangement according to the invention can be connected to the at least one connection terminal as required. The connection pieces preferably have check valves so that the liquid heat exchangers can be easily connected and disconnected without affecting operation. Preferably, the connection pieces are designed as quick-release hydraulic connectors.

[0027] The connecting line can be a cooling circuit that may already be present in a laboratory, to which the liquid heat exchangers of the heat exchanger arrangements are connected. Thus, using existing infrastructure, the energy efficiency of the room cooling can be significantly increased compared to conventional cooling.

[0028] The connecting line furthermore preferably comprises a supply line and a return line, which lines are connected to the cooling unit via the connection terminal in such a way that, where multiple heat exchanger arrangements are connected to the connecting line, multiple liquid heat exchangers are connected in parallel, with each heat exchanger arrangement being assigned a connection terminal. This has the advantage that all connected heat exchanger arrangements have essentially the same flow temperature.

[0029] In an embodiment of the invention, multiple heat exchanger arrangements are disposed in a room and connected via connection terminals to the cooling unit, which is located outside the room containing the heat exchanger arrangements. Furthermore, a temperature sensor is arranged in the room in which the heat exchanger arrangements are located, which sensor measures the room temperature and transmits the detected temperature to the controller for the cooling unit.

[0030] Preferably, a humidity sensor, in particular a hygrometer, can be provided in addition to the temperature sensor.

[0031] The controller for the cooling unit is set in such a way that the flow temperature is set to a temperature that is greater than or equal to the dew point. At 60% humidity, the flow temperature is no more than 8° C. lower than the room temperature of about 24° C. In this way, the cooling capacity of a plurality of decentralized heat exchanger arrangements can be easily adjusted centrally. This ensures that the exhaust air from the appliance will only be cooled to such an extent that the formation of condensate is minimal.

[0032] The heat energy recovered from the cooling unit can preferably be fed into a heating circuit in a heat-recovering manner, or otherwise used for energy recovery.

[0033] Preferably, the connecting line further comprises a base terminal in which the temperature sensor is accommodated, which is connected to a controller of the cooling unit via the base terminal.

[0034] The base terminal can also have a connection for the input of a power supply which can be used to supply power to the connection terminals in order to centrally supply power to the air conveyors, in particular those designed as electric fans.

[0035] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the connection terminals may also include a power connector for connection to a preceding and / or a subsequent connection terminal or base terminal. In particular, the connection terminals then have electrical connections for connection to the air conveyor, especially the electric fans.

[0036] The base terminal may include adjustment means used to influence the power supply in such a way that the air conveying performance of the connected air conveyors can be adjusted.

[0037] This allows the air supply flow of all the heat exchanger arrangements to be adjusted centrally in a simple way and to be adapted to the exhaust air conditions of the appliance and the flow temperature of the cooling fluid.

[0038] The heat exchanger arrangements are preferably of identical design.

[0039] Additional advantages, features and possible applications of the present invention will be apparent from the description which follows, in which reference is made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings.

[0040] Throughout the description, the claims and the drawing, those terms and associated reference signs are used as are listed in the List of Reference Signs below.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] In the drawings,

[0042] FIG. 1 is a perspective rear view of the functional components of a heat exchanger arrangement according to the invention;

[0043] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an overpressure flap;

[0044] FIG. 3a is a schematic sectional view of a heat exchanger arrangement according to the invention, in its operational state;

[0045] FIG. 3b is a schematic sectional view of a heat exchanger arrangement according to the invention in the event of a failure;

[0046] FIG. 4 is a cooling system according to the invention; and

[0047] FIG. 5 is a connection terminal according to the invention.

[0048] FIG. 1 is a perspective rear view of the functional components of a heat exchanger arrangement 10 according to the invention.DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0049] The heat exchanger arrangement 10 includes a housing 12 having a frame 14 that forms the air inlet of the heat exchanger arrangement 10. Via fastening means, not shown in this view, the heat exchanger arrangement 10 can be detachably fastened to an appliance (not shown), in particular a laboratory apparatus, in particular without the use of tools. Preferably, once mounted, the frame 14 encloses an exhaust opening of the laboratory apparatus.

[0050] The air through the frame 14 is conveyed by an air conveyor 16, which in the present case is formed by two individual fans 16a, 16b arranged side by side, through a liquid heat exchanger 20 located upstream of the air conveyor 16 as seen in the direction of flow. The liquid heat exchanger 20 is surrounded by a wall, so that a main flow path 18 (cf. FIG. 3a) of the air extends through the liquid heat exchanger 20.

[0051] The liquid heat exchanger 20 has an inlet connection and an outlet connection for the cooling fluid.

[0052] Upstream of the main flow path 18 is an air outlet 30, which in operation is closed by an overpressure flap (not shown in FIG. 1). The overpressure flap 50 is illustrated in more detail in FIG. 2.

[0053] A drip tray 40 is arranged underneath the liquid heat exchanger 20 which serves to collect any condensate that forms during cooling. Upstream of the main flow path 18, another air guide element 42 is provided which causes a portion of the exhaust air to be branched off and directed over the drip tray 40. The air guide element 42 is formed by a slotted metal plate that extends at an angle with respect to the main flow path 18. This causes warm exhaust air to be branched off in order to release any condensate collected in the drip tray 40 to the room air, so as to prevent the continuous formation of moisture during cooling.

[0054] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an overpressure flap 50 in its open state, which flap, when closed, rests on and seals the air outlet 30. In the simplest form, the overpressure flap 50 is a plastic plate / film having a solid joint. This provides sufficient sensitivity for opening in the event of a malfunction.

[0055] FIG. 3a is a schematic sectional view of a heat exchanger arrangement 10 according to the invention, which is connected to a laboratory apparatus 60 shown only schematically. The laboratory apparatus 60 includes a perforated plate 62 having an air outlet region through which warm exhaust air is blown out of the laboratory apparatus.

[0056] For attachment purposes, the heat exchanger arrangement 10 includes fastening means in the form of hooks 54 which are adapted to be suspended in inspection or handle openings of the perforated plate 62. This allows the heat exchanger arrangement 10 to be easily arranged behind the laboratory apparatus 60 as needed.

[0057] The view of FIG. 3a shows the heat exchanger arrangement 10 in its operating position. The division of the exhaust air flow from the laboratory apparatus 60 is mainly done via the main flow path 18—with the overpressure flap 50 closed, in which the air is cooled by the liquid heat exchanger 20 and thus discharged into the room at a temperature close to the room temperature.

[0058] To recover any moisture that may be generated due to condensation on the heat exchanger, the air guide element 42 branches of part of the exhaust air upstream of the main flow path 18. The air guide element 42 may be configured such that the opening cross-section is fixed or adjustable.

[0059] FIG. 3b is a schematic sectional view of a heat exchanger arrangement 10 according to the invention in the event of a failure, i.e. failure of the air conveyor 16. To ensure operational safety, the exhaust air from the laboratory apparatus 60 then flows out of the heat exchanger arrangement through the air outlet 30 in a largely unhindered way, with the overpressure flap 50 being opened only by the air flow.

[0060] This eliminates the need to control the overpressure flap 50 and always ensures reliable removal of the warm exhaust air from the appliance, even in the event of a failure.

[0061] The view of FIG. 4 shows a cooling system 130 according to the invention that comprises three heat exchanger arrangements 70a, 70b, 70c according to the invention which are suspended from three exhaust outlets of a laboratory apparatus 72 and are detachable therefrom without the use of tools. The heat exchanger arrangements 70a, 70b, 70c each include a liquid heat exchanger 74a. 74b, 74c, each of which is connected to a cooling unit 100 located outside of the room 120 via a connecting line 80. The connecting line 80 includes two hose lines 82a, 82b in which connection terminals 84a, 84b, 84c are installed to enable the liquid heat exchangers 74a, 74b, 74c to be fluidically connected to the cooling unit 100. A base terminal 86 is furthermore provided, which includes a temperature sensor 88 for sensing the room temperature. The temperature sensor 88 is connected to a controller 90 of the cooling unit 100. The controller 90 is designed such that the flow temperature of the cooling fluid is 8° C. lower than the room temperature.

[0062] The base terminal 86 is also connected to a power supply 110 that is distributed to the connection terminals 84a, 84b, 84c via the base terminal 86. The connection terminals 84a, 84b, 84c have power connections which can be used to connect the electric fans 76a, 76b, 76c to the power supply 110. Alliteratively, the power supply can also be part of the cooling unit, in which case the power supply to the fans can be used for a decentralized verification of whether the cooling unit is in operation. This can preferably be done using at least one LED that is preferably integrated in the base terminal 86.

[0063] This is a simple way of adjusting the behavior of the decentralized heat exchanger arrangements 70a, 70b, 70c via a base terminal 86 in the connecting line 80 and the cooling unit 100, which will then effect the necessary cooling of the exhaust air of the laboratory apparatus 72.

[0064] FIG. 5 is an exemplary view of a connection terminal 200 according to the invention. The connection terminal 200 has a fluid connection 202 for connecting the flow line on the side of the cooling unit and a connection 206 for further connection of the flow line to another connection terminal.

[0065] A connecting piece 216 in the form of a quick-release connector branches of between the connection 202 and the connection 206 for connection to the fluid cooler. Similarly, a return side is provided with the connections 204, 208 and the connecting piece 218. In addition, the terminal 200 includes a power supply input 214, a power supply output 212, and a connecting terminal 210, which connecting terminal 210 can be used to operate the electric fan.

[0066] One heat exchanger arrangement each can be connected to each such connecting terminal 200. The connecting terminals 200 can be accommodated in in a connecting line and thus be flexibly routed within a room, and a heat exchanger arrangement 70a, 70b, 700 can be connected to the respective connecting terminals 200 as required. These connecting terminals 200 may also be inserted into an existing connecting line as needed.LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS10 heat exchanger arrangement

[0068] 12 valve body

[0069] 14 frame

[0070] 16 air conveyor

[0071] 18 main flow path

[0072] 20 liquid heat exchanger

[0073] 30 air outlet

[0074] 40 drip tray

[0075] 42 air guide element

[0076] 50 overpressure flap

[0077] 54 hooks

[0078] 60 laboratory apparatus

[0079] 62 perforated plate

[0080] 70a,b,c heat exchanger arrangements

[0081] 72 laboratory apparatus

[0082] 74a,b,c liquid heat exchanger

[0083] 76a,b,c electric fan

[0084] 80 connecting line

[0085] 82a,b hose line

[0086] 84a,b,c connection terminals

[0087] 86 base terminal

[0088] 88 temperature sensor

[0089] 90 controller

[0090] 100 cooling unit

[0091] 110 power supply

[0092] 120 room

[0093] 130 cooling system

[0094] 200 connection terminal

[0095] 202 fluid connection

[0096] 204 connection

[0097] 206 connection

[0098] 208 connection

[0099] 210 connection terminal

[0100] 212 power supply output

[0101] 214 power supply input

[0102] 216 connection piece

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0049]The heat exchanger arrangement 10 includes a housing 12 having a frame 14 that forms the air inlet of the heat exchanger arrangement 10. Via fastening means, not shown in this view, the heat exchanger arrangement 10 can be detachably fastened to an appliance (not shown), in particular a laboratory apparatus, in particular without the use of tools. Preferably, once mounted, the frame 14 encloses an exhaust opening of the laboratory apparatus.

[0050]The air through the frame 14 is conveyed by an air conveyor 16, which in the present case is formed by two individual fans 16a, 16b arranged side by side, through a liquid heat exchanger 20 located upstream of the air conveyor 16 as seen in the direction of flow. The liquid heat exchanger 20 is surrounded by a wall, so that a main flow path 18 (cf. FIG. 3a) of the air extends through the liquid heat exchanger 20.

[0051]The liquid heat exchanger 20 has an inlet connection and an outlet connection for the cooling fluid.

[0052]Upstream of ...

[0001] This patent application is the national phase entry of PCT / EP2020 / 074956, international application filing date Sep. 7, 2020, which claims the benefit and priority of and to German patent application no. 10 2019 124 005.0, filed Sep. 6, 2019.

[0002] PCT / EP2020 / 074956, international application filing date Sep. 7, 2020 and German patent application no. 10 2019 124 005.0, filed Sep. 6, 2019 are incorporated herein by reference hereto in their entireties.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The invention relates to a heat exchanger arrangement for attachment to the wall of an appliance.

[0004] It is known that the indoor climate is affected, especially at certain points, by the temperature input from appliances located in a room.

[0005] DE 20 2016 105 077 U1 discloses a heat exchanger arrangement for appliances, in particular laboratory equipment. As disclosed in this specification, a hose is used to connect heat exchangers to an exhaust area of a laboratory apparatus in order to cool down the exhaust air thus introduced into the room. A similar design is also disclosed in DE 41 11 333 A1, in which the exhaust air of an appliance is discharged via a duct system and, after it has been cooled down, is reintroduced into the room.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] It is the object of the invention to provide a heat exchanger arrangement that is of a compact design and can, in particular, be easily retrofitted so as to prevent the room temperature from being thermally charged by the warm exhaust air exiting the appliance, in particular a laboratory apparatus.

[0007] This object is accomplished by the features of claim 1.

[0008] The dependent claims relate to advantageous further embodiments of the invention.

[0009] According to the invention, the heat exchanger arrangement comprises a housing that has a main flow path formed therein in which a liquid heat exchanger is arranged. In a known manner, the liquid heat exchanger has an inlet for the cooling fluid and an outlet for the cooling fluid heated by the exhaust air. Preferably, the heated cooling fluid is cooled down outside of the laboratory room. Furthermore, an air conveyor is arranged in the main flow path, which air conveyor acts to pass the air flow through the liquid heat exchanger. In addition, an overpressure flap is provided to allow opening of the main flow path—in the direction of flow—upstream of the heat exchanger and upstream of the air conveyor in the event of overpressure in the main flow path. By means of the overpressure flap, a bypass is formed from the main flow path, which makes it possible to bypass the air conveyor and the liquid heat exchanger. This positive pressure setting will ensure that the exhaust air from the appliance is safely discharged into the room even if the air conveyor fails, thus allowing decentralized use directly on the appliance, since even in the event of a failure of the air conveyor, heat buildup in the appliance can be reliably avoided, and the appliance can be operated in the same way as it would be operated without the heat exchanger arrangement being turned on.

[0010] In addition, fastening means are provided to secure the heat exchanger to the wall of the appliance. The fastening means and the housing are designed in such a way that one heat exchanger arrangement each is assigned to an air outlet area and / or an air inlet area of a laboratory apparatus.

[0011] This will minimize the amounts of heat to be processed by each heat exchanger even if an appliance has a plurality of air discharge areas. As a result, cooling by means of the liquid heat exchanger will only require a minimum amount of energy. The formation of condensation water during cooling can thus be prevented to the greatest extent possible.

[0012] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a drip tray may be provided which is adapted to absorb condensation water formed on the liquid heat exchanger, with an air guide element being furthermore provided to cause air to be branched off upstream of the liquid heat exchanger and to be passed over the drip tray, resulting in any moisture in the drip tray to be absorbed by the air flow and released back into the room air.

[0013] This creates a means of decentralized cooling of the exhaust air from the appliance in a room, which can be retrofitted to existing equipment, and which can also be used in critical environments, since the solution described above will not affect the humidity of the air.

[0014] Preferably, the housing has fastening means with which the housing can be detachably fastened to the wall of an appliance without the use of tools. This eliminates the need for re-certification of the overall appliance when used with the heat exchanger arrangement.

[0015] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the fastening means are at least partially formed as hooks. Such hooks can be suspended in inspection openings as are often provided on laboratory apparatus.

[0016] The fastening means may also comprise fastening means that are designed as Velcro elements. This allows the heat exchanger arrangement to be easily attached or removed as needed.

[0017] The air guide element is preferably formed from a metal sheet with perforations made therein, which metal sheet is set to be inclined with respect to the main flow path, so as to achieve an improved distribution of the air flow. Preferably, the drip tray may be designed such that, when mounted, it will be disposed underneath the liquid cooler. This makes it very easy to collect any dripping water that may be present.

[0018] The drip tray may have an air baffle in the direction of the outlet of the heat exchanger arrangement, which baffle in particular terminates downstream of the outlet, so that the air flow directed over the drip tray will be recombined with the main air flow.

[0019] A heat exchanger arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the openings and the main flow path and the air conveyor are matched to one another in such a way that a volume flow will be directed over the drip tray that is less than 20% of the volume flow of the main flow path. In this way, any condensation water that may be present can be reliably absorbed by the room air, thus ensuring that the exhaust air is cooled down to the greatest possible extent.

[0020] The overpressure flap is preferably set to open at a pressure that corresponds to the dynamic pressure when the air conveyor is not in operation. This ensures that exhaust air can be removed reliably via the overpressure flap even in the event of an appliance failure.

[0021] The overpressure flap is designed in particular as a flap that is adapted to be rotated about an axis and has its inflow surface and its weight chosen such that it will be opened automatically by the incoming air at the desired overpressure, but will provide substantial sealing in operation.

[0022] The overpressure flap preferably rests on an air outlet plate which is arranged diagonally opposite the main flow path, so that under the influence of the weight force, the overpressure flap will cover the air outlet plate.

[0023] Furthermore, the invention relates to an arrangement for the decentralized cooling of room air comprising at least one heat exchanger arrangement of the type described above, a liquid cooler connected to the heat exchanger arrangement via a connecting line.

[0024] In particular, the air conveyor and the liquid heat exchanger are arranged such that the liquid heat exchanger is disposed on the suction side of the air conveyor. This results in a compact design as regards depth, which is advantageous for attachment to an existing laboratory apparatus,

[0025] Furthermore, the invention relates to a cooling system comprising at least one, in particular several, heat exchanger arrangement(s) of the type specified above, a cooling unit for cooling a cooling fluid conducted through the liquid heat exchanger, and a connecting line for connecting the liquid heat exchanger to the heat exchanger arrangement, wherein the at least one heat exchanger arrangement is located in a room, wherein the cooling unit discharges the warm exhaust air to outside the room, in particular the cooling unit is located outside the room.

[0026] More specifically, the connecting line comprises at least one fluid conduct for conducting the cooling fluid and at least one connection terminal having connecting pieces for connection to the liquid heat exchanger of the heat exchanger arrangement. As a result, a liquid heat exchanger of a heat exchanger arrangement according to the invention can be connected to the at least one connection terminal as required. The connection pieces preferably have check valves so that the liquid heat exchangers can be easily connected and disconnected without affecting operation. Preferably, the connection pieces are designed as quick-release hydraulic connectors.

[0027] The connecting line can be a cooling circuit that may already be present in a laboratory, to which the liquid heat exchangers of the heat exchanger arrangements are connected. Thus, using existing infrastructure, the energy efficiency of the room cooling can be significantly increased compared to conventional cooling.

[0028] The connecting line furthermore preferably comprises a supply line and a return line, which lines are connected to the cooling unit via the connection terminal in such a way that, where multiple heat exchanger arrangements are connected to the connecting line, multiple liquid heat exchangers are connected in parallel, with each heat exchanger arrangement being assigned a connection terminal. This has the advantage that all connected heat exchanger arrangements have essentially the same flow temperature.

[0029] In an embodiment of the invention, multiple heat exchanger arrangements are disposed in a room and connected via connection terminals to the cooling unit, which is located outside the room containing the heat exchanger arrangements. Furthermore, a temperature sensor is arranged in the room in which the heat exchanger arrangements are located, which sensor measures the room temperature and transmits the detected temperature to the controller for the cooling unit.

[0030] Preferably, a humidity sensor, in particular a hygrometer, can be provided in addition to the temperature sensor.

[0031] The controller for the cooling unit is set in such a way that the flow temperature is set to a temperature that is greater than or equal to the dew point. At 60% humidity, the flow temperature is no more than 8° C. lower than the room temperature of about 24° C. In this way, the cooling capacity of a plurality of decentralized heat exchanger arrangements can be easily adjusted centrally. This ensures that the exhaust air from the appliance will only be cooled to such an extent that the formation of condensate is minimal.

[0032] The heat energy recovered from the cooling unit can preferably be fed into a heating circuit in a heat-recovering manner, or otherwise used for energy recovery.

[0033] Preferably, the connecting line further comprises a base terminal in which the temperature sensor is accommodated, which is connected to a controller of the cooling unit via the base terminal.

[0034] The base terminal can also have a connection for the input of a power supply which can be used to supply power to the connection terminals in order to centrally supply power to the air conveyors, in particular those designed as electric fans.

[0035] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the connection terminals may also include a power connector for connection to a preceding and / or a subsequent connection terminal or base terminal. In particular, the connection terminals then have electrical connections for connection to the air conveyor, especially the electric fans.

[0036] The base terminal may include adjustment means used to influence the power supply in such a way that the air conveying performance of the connected air conveyors can be adjusted.

[0037] This allows the air supply flow of all the heat exchanger arrangements to be adjusted centrally in a simple way and to be adapted to the exhaust air conditions of the appliance and the flow temperature of the cooling fluid.

[0038] The heat exchanger arrangements are preferably of identical design.

[0039] Additional advantages, features and possible applications of the present invention will be apparent from the description which follows, in which reference is made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings.

[0040] Throughout the description, the claims and the drawing, those terms and associated reference signs are used as are listed in the List of Reference Signs below.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] In the drawings,

[0042] FIG. 1 is a perspective rear view of the functional components of a heat exchanger arrangement according to the invention;

[0043] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an overpressure flap;

[0044] FIG. 3a is a schematic sectional view of a heat exchanger arrangement according to the invention, in its operational state;

[0045] FIG. 3b is a schematic sectional view of a heat exchanger arrangement according to the invention in the event of a failure;

[0046] FIG. 4 is a cooling system according to the invention; and

[0047] FIG. 5 is a connection terminal according to the invention.

[0048] FIG. 1 is a perspective rear view of the functional components of a heat exchanger arrangement 10 according to the invention.DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0049] The heat exchanger arrangement 10 includes a housing 12 having a frame 14 that forms the air inlet of the heat exchanger arrangement 10. Via fastening means, not shown in this view, the heat exchanger arrangement 10 can be detachably fastened to an appliance (not shown), in particular a laboratory apparatus, in particular without the use of tools. Preferably, once mounted, the frame 14 encloses an exhaust opening of the laboratory apparatus.

[0050] The air through the frame 14 is conveyed by an air conveyor 16, which in the present case is formed by two individual fans 16a, 16b arranged side by side, through a liquid heat exchanger 20 located upstream of the air conveyor 16 as seen in the direction of flow. The liquid heat exchanger 20 is surrounded by a wall, so that a main flow path 18 (cf. FIG. 3a) of the air extends through the liquid heat exchanger 20.

[0051] The liquid heat exchanger 20 has an inlet connection and an outlet connection for the cooling fluid.

[0052] Upstream of the main flow path 18 is an air outlet 30, which in operation is closed by an overpressure flap (not shown in FIG. 1). The overpressure flap 50 is illustrated in more detail in FIG. 2.

[0053] A drip tray 40 is arranged underneath the liquid heat exchanger 20 which serves to collect any condensate that forms during cooling. Upstream of the main flow path 18, another air guide element 42 is provided which causes a portion of the exhaust air to be branched off and directed over the drip tray 40. The air guide element 42 is formed by a slotted metal plate that extends at an angle with respect to the main flow path 18. This causes warm exhaust air to be branched off in order to release any condensate collected in the drip tray 40 to the room air, so as to prevent the continuous formation of moisture during cooling.

[0054] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an overpressure flap 50 in its open state, which flap, when closed, rests on and seals the air outlet 30. In the simplest form, the overpressure flap 50 is a plastic plate / film having a solid joint. This provides sufficient sensitivity for opening in the event of a malfunction.

[0055] FIG. 3a is a schematic sectional view of a heat exchanger arrangement 10 according to the invention, which is connected to a laboratory apparatus 60 shown only schematically. The laboratory apparatus 60 includes a perforated plate 62 having an air outlet region through which warm exhaust air is blown out of the laboratory apparatus.

[0056] For attachment purposes, the heat exchanger arrangement 10 includes fastening means in the form of hooks 54 which are adapted to be suspended in inspection or handle openings of the perforated plate 62. This allows the heat exchanger arrangement 10 to be easily arranged behind the laboratory apparatus 60 as needed.

[0057] The view of FIG. 3a shows the heat exchanger arrangement 10 in its operating position. The division of the exhaust air flow from the laboratory apparatus 60 is mainly done via the main flow path 18—with the overpressure flap 50 closed, in which the air is cooled by the liquid heat exchanger 20 and thus discharged into the room at a temperature close to the room temperature.

[0058] To recover any moisture that may be generated due to condensation on the heat exchanger, the air guide element 42 branches of part of the exhaust air upstream of the main flow path 18. The air guide element 42 may be configured such that the opening cross-section is fixed or adjustable.

[0059] FIG. 3b is a schematic sectional view of a heat exchanger arrangement 10 according to the invention in the event of a failure, i.e. failure of the air conveyor 16. To ensure operational safety, the exhaust air from the laboratory apparatus 60 then flows out of the heat exchanger arrangement through the air outlet 30 in a largely unhindered way, with the overpressure flap 50 being opened only by the air flow.

[0060] This eliminates the need to control the overpressure flap 50 and always ensures reliable removal of the warm exhaust air from the appliance, even in the event of a failure.

[0061] The view of FIG. 4 shows a cooling system 130 according to the invention that comprises three heat exchanger arrangements 70a, 70b, 70c according to the invention which are suspended from three exhaust outlets of a laboratory apparatus 72 and are detachable therefrom without the use of tools. The heat exchanger arrangements 70a, 70b, 70c each include a liquid heat exchanger 74a. 74b, 74c, each of which is connected to a cooling unit 100 located outside of the room 120 via a connecting line 80. The connecting line 80 includes two hose lines 82a, 82b in which connection terminals 84a, 84b, 84c are installed to enable the liquid heat exchangers 74a, 74b, 74c to be fluidically connected to the cooling unit 100. A base terminal 86 is furthermore provided, which includes a temperature sensor 88 for sensing the room temperature. The temperature sensor 88 is connected to a controller 90 of the cooling unit 100. The controller 90 is designed such that the flow temperature of the cooling fluid is 8° C. lower than the room temperature.

[0062] The base terminal 86 is also connected to a power supply 110 that is distributed to the connection terminals 84a, 84b, 84c via the base terminal 86. The connection terminals 84a, 84b, 84c have power connections which can be used to connect the electric fans 76a, 76b, 76c to the power supply 110. Alliteratively, the power supply can also be part of the cooling unit, in which case the power supply to the fans can be used for a decentralized verification of whether the cooling unit is in operation. This can preferably be done using at least one LED that is preferably integrated in the base terminal 86.

[0063] This is a simple way of adjusting the behavior of the decentralized heat exchanger arrangements 70a, 70b, 70c via a base terminal 86 in the connecting line 80 and the cooling unit 100, which will then effect the necessary cooling of the exhaust air of the laboratory apparatus 72.

[0064] FIG. 5 is an exemplary view of a connection terminal 200 according to the invention. The connection terminal 200 has a fluid connection 202 for connecting the flow line on the side of the cooling unit and a connection 206 for further connection of the flow line to another connection terminal.

[0065] A connecting piece 216 in the form of a quick-release connector branches of between the connection 202 and the connection 206 for connection to the fluid cooler. Similarly, a return side is provided with the connections 204, 208 and the connecting piece 218. In addition, the terminal 200 includes a power supply input 214, a power supply output 212, and a connecting terminal 210, which connecting terminal 210 can be used to operate the electric fan.

[0066] One heat exchanger arrangement each can be connected to each such connecting terminal 200. The connecting terminals 200 can be accommodated in in a connecting line and thus be flexibly routed within a room, and a heat exchanger arrangement 70a, 70b, 700 can be connected to the respective connecting terminals 200 as required. These connecting terminals 200 may also be inserted into an existing connecting line as needed.LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS10 heat exchanger arrangement

[0068] 12 valve body

[0069] 14 frame

[0070] 16 air conveyor

[0071] 18 main flow path

[0072] 20 liquid heat exchanger

[0073] 30 air outlet

[0074] 40 drip tray

[0075] 42 air guide element

[0076] 50 overpressure flap

[0077] 54 hooks

[0078] 60 laboratory apparatus

[0079] 62 perforated plate

[0080] 70a,b,c heat exchanger arrangements

[0081] 72 laboratory apparatus

[0082] 74a,b,c liquid heat exchanger

[0083] 76a,b,c electric fan

[0084] 80 connecting line

[0085] 82a,b hose line

[0086] 84a,b,c connection terminals

[0087] 86 base terminal

[0088] 88 temperature sensor

[0089] 90 controller

[0090] 100 cooling unit

[0091] 110 power supply

[0092] 120 room

[0093] 130 cooling system

[0094] 200 connection terminal

[0095] 202 fluid connection

[0096] 204 connection

[0097] 206 connection

[0098] 208 connection

[0099] 210 connection terminal

[0100] 212 power supply output

[0101] 214 power supply input

[0102] 216 connection piece

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0049]The heat exchanger arrangement 10 includes a housing 12 having a frame 14 that forms the air inlet of the heat exchanger arrangement 10. Via fastening means, not shown in this view, the heat exchanger arrangement 10 can be detachably fastened to an appliance (not shown), in particular a laboratory apparatus, in particular without the use of tools. Preferably, once mounted, the frame 14 encloses an exhaust opening of the laboratory apparatus.

[0050]The air through the frame 14 is conveyed by an air conveyor 16, which in the present case is formed by two individual fans 16a, 16b arranged side by side, through a liquid heat exchanger 20 located upstream of the air conveyor 16 as seen in the direction of flow. The liquid heat exchanger 20 is surrounded by a wall, so that a main flow path 18 (cf. FIG. 3a) of the air extends through the liquid heat exchanger 20.

[0051]The liquid heat exchanger 20 has an inlet connection and an outlet connection for the cooling fluid.

[0052]Upstream of ...

Claims

1-18. (canceled)19. A heat exchanger arrangement (10) for attachment to an appliance wall, comprising: a housing (12), which housing (12) has a main flow path (18) formed therein in which a liquid heat exchanger (20) is arranged, wherein an air conveyor (16) is furthermore arranged in said main flow path (18), which air conveyor (16) acts to pass the air flow through said liquid heat exchanger (20), characterized in that an overpressure flap (50) is provided which, in the event of overpressure, allows an opening upstream of said liquid heat exchanger (20) and upstream of said air conveyor (16) and thus forms a bypass from said main flow path (18).

20. The heat exchanger arrangement as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that a drip tray (40) is provided which is adapted to absorb condensation water formed on the liquid heat exchanger (20), with an air guide element (42) being furthermore provided to cause air to be branched off upstream of said liquid heat exchanger (20) and to be passed over said drip tray (40), resulting in any moisture in the drip tray (40) to be absorbed by the air flow.

21. The heat exchanger arrangement as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that said housing (12) includes fastening means (54) with which said housing (12) can be releasably fastened to an appliance wall without the use of tools.

22. The heat exchanger arrangement as claimed in claim 21, characterized in that said fastening means comprise hooks (54).

23. The heat exchanger arrangement as claimed in claim 21, characterized in that said fastening means comprise Velcro elements.

24. The heat exchanger arrangement as claimed in claim 19, characterized in that said air guide element (42) is a sheet metal with openings.

25. The heat exchanger arrangement as claimed in claim 19, characterized in that said openings and said main flow path (18) and said air conveyor (16) are matched to one another in such a way that a volume flow will be directed over the drip tray (42) that is less than 20% of the volume flow of said main flow path (18).

26. The heat exchanger arrangement as claimed in claim 19, characterized in that said overpressure flap (50) will open at a pressure that corresponds to the dynamic pressure prevailing when the air conveyor (16) is not in operation.

27. The heat exchanger arrangement as claimed in claim 19, characterized in that said air conveyor (16) and said liquid heat exchanger (20) are arranged such that said liquid heat exchanger (20) is disposed on the suction side of said air conveyor (16).

28. A cooling system comprising the heat exchanger arrangement as claimed in claim 19, further including a cooler unit (100) for cooling the cooling fluid passed through the liquid heat exchanger (74a, 74b, 74c) and a connecting line (80) for connecting said liquid heat exchanger (74a, 74b, 74c) to said heat exchanger arrangement (10).

29. The cooling system as claimed in claim 28, characterized in that said connecting line (80) comprises at least one fluid conduit (82a, 82b) for conducting the cooling fluid, with connection terminals (84a, 84b, 84c) that include connecting pieces for connection to said liquid heat exchanger (74a, 74b, 74c) of said heat exchanger arrangement (10) being connected to said fluid conduct (82a, 82b).

30. The cooling system as claimed in claim 29, characterized in that said connecting line (80) comprises a supply line (82a) and a return line (82b), which lines are connected to said cooling unit (100), said connection terminals (84a, 84b, 84c) being designed in such a manner that a plurality of liquid heat exchangers (74a, 74b, 74c) is connected in parallel, with each heat exchanger arrangement (70a, 70b, 70c) being assigned a connection terminal (84a, 84b, 8ac).

31. The cooling system as claimed in claim 30, characterized in that a plurality of heat exchanger arrangements (70a, 70b, 70c) is arranged in a room (120) and is connected to said cooling unit via connection terminals (202, 204, 206, 208), which cooling unit discharges the exhaust air to the outside of the room, or which is located in particular outside the room (120) that contains said heat exchanger arrangements (70a, 70b, 70c), wherein a temperature sensor (88) is arranged in said room, which sensor measures the room temperature and transmits it to the controller (90) for said cooling unit (100).

32. The cooling system as claimed in claim 31, characterized in that a humidity sensor is provided in said room (120).

33. The cooling system as claimed in claim 31, characterized in that said connecting line (80) comprises a base terminal (86) which houses said temperature sensor (88) and / or said humidity sensor, which sensor is connected to a controller (90) of said cooling unit (100) via said base terminal (86).

34. The cooling system as claimed in claim 33, characterized in that said base terminal (86) has a connection for the input of a power supply (110).

35. The cooling system as claimed in claim 34, characterized in that said connection terminal (200) has a power connection (212, 214) for connection to a preceding and / or a subsequent connection terminal (200) or base terminal (86).

36. The cooling system as claimed in claim 35, characterized in that said connection terminal (200) has electrical connections (210) for connection to said air conveyor (16, 76a, 76b, 76c).

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