Heat exchanger and air conditioner comprising same

Abstract

The heat exchanger and the air conditioner comprising same may comprise: a header including a first header and a second header detachably coupled to the first header, the header forming an outlet chamber configured to contain a refrigerant; and a heat-exchange tube connected to the first header and configured such that a refrigerant passes through the heat-exchange tube and exchanges heat with external air. The heat exchanger may include an outlet pipe inserted into a hole that communicates with the outlet chamber through the second header, coupled to the second header by brazing, and configured to discharge the refrigerant from the outlet chamber to the outside while communicating with the outlet chamber. The outlet pipe includes a first outlet pipe disposed in the outlet chamber and a second outlet pipe extending outwards from the first outlet pipe. The first outlet pipe includes an engaging protrusion protruding from the outer surface of the first outlet pipe in the radial direction of the first outlet pipe, the engaging protrusion being configured to prevent the first outlet pipe from moving out of the outlet chamber.

Description

Heat exchanger and air conditioner including same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heat exchanger capable of increasing space utilization and an air conditioner including the same.

[0002] In general, a heat exchanger is a device that exchanges heat between refrigerant and outside air by having tubes through which refrigerant flows and exchanges heat with outside air, heat exchange fins that contact the tubes to expand the heat dissipation area, and headers that connect both ends of the tubes.

[0003] The heat exchanger may comprise an evaporator or a condenser, a compressor for compressing refrigerant, and an expansion valve for expanding the refrigerant, forming a refrigeration cycle device.

[0004] The heat exchanger may include an inlet pipe through which external refrigerant flows in, and an outlet pipe through which the refrigerant is discharged to the outside. The inlet pipe and outlet pipe are connected to a header, and can supply refrigerant to the tubes or receive refrigerant from the tubes.

[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a heat exchanger with improved space utilization and an air conditioner including the same.

[0006] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a heat exchanger including a structure for more effectively connecting a pipe through which refrigerant flows and a header, and an air conditioner including the same.

[0007] A heat exchanger according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include a header including a first header and a second header detachably coupled to the first header, the header forming an outlet chamber for receiving a refrigerant. The heat exchanger may include a heat exchange tube connected to the first header, the heat exchange tube configured to allow the refrigerant to pass through the heat exchange tube and exchange heat with outside air. The heat exchanger may include an outlet pipe inserted into a hole penetrating the second header and communicating with the outlet chamber, brazed to the second header, communicating with the outlet chamber, and configured to discharge the refrigerant within the outlet chamber. The outlet pipe may include a first outlet pipe disposed in the outlet chamber and a second outlet pipe extending externally from the first outlet pipe. The first outlet pipe may include a catch that protrudes radially from an outer surface of the first outlet pipe to prevent the first outlet pipe from being separated from the outlet chamber.

[0008] A heat exchanger according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include a header forming an inlet chamber configured to receive an inflowing refrigerant and an outlet chamber configured to receive an exhausted refrigerant. The heat exchanger may include a heat exchange tube connected to the header, the heat exchange tube configured to allow the refrigerant to pass through the heat exchange tube and exchange heat with outside air. The heat exchanger may include an inlet pipe communicating with the inlet chamber and configured to supply refrigerant to the inlet chamber, and an outlet pipe connected to the header by brazing, inserted into a hole penetrating the header and communicating with the outlet chamber, and configured to exhaust the refrigerant inside the outlet chamber. The outlet pipe may include a first outlet pipe disposed in the outlet chamber and a second outlet pipe extending to the outside from the first outlet pipe. The first outlet pipe may include a catch that protrudes radially from an outer surface of the first outlet pipe to prevent the first outlet pipe from being separated from the outlet chamber.

[0009] An air conditioner according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing having an intake port configured to intake air and an exhaust port configured to exhaust heat-exchanged air. The air conditioner may include a heat exchanger disposed inside the housing and configured to exchange heat with the intake air. The air conditioner may include a fan configured to be driven to exhaust the heat-exchanged air to the outside. The heat exchanger may include a first header and a second header that are detachably coupled to each other. The heat exchanger may include a header forming an outlet chamber that receives a refrigerant. The heat exchanger may include a heat exchange tube connected to the first header, the heat exchange tube configured to allow the refrigerant to pass through the heat exchange tube and exchange heat with outside air. The heat exchanger may include an outlet pipe inserted into a hole penetrating the second header and communicating with the outlet chamber, joined to the second header by brazing, communicating with the outlet chamber, and configured to exhaust the refrigerant inside the outlet chamber. The outlet pipe may include a first outlet pipe disposed in the outlet chamber and a second outlet pipe extending outward from the first outlet pipe. The first outlet pipe may include a catch that protrudes radially from an outer surface of the first outlet pipe to prevent the first outlet pipe from being separated from the outlet chamber.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a heat exchanger according to various embodiments.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating some of a plurality of heat exchange tubes and an upper header in a heat exchanger according to various embodiments.

[0013] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the upper header in FIG. 3 according to various embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 3 according to various embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the BB' line of FIG. 3, looking down from above, according to various embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating some of the plurality of heat exchange tubes and the lower header in a heat exchanger according to various embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the lower header in FIG. 7 according to various embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a view looking up from below along the CC' cutting line of FIG. 7 according to various embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the DD' line of FIG. 7 according to various embodiments.

[0020] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of area A of FIG. 10 according to various embodiments.

[0021] FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing an outlet pipe, a second header, and a covering in a heat exchanger according to various embodiments.

[0022] FIG. 13 is a partially exploded perspective view showing an outlet pipe, a second header, and a covering in a heat exchanger according to various embodiments.

[0023] FIG. 14 is a side view of FIG. 13 according to various embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating the upper surface of FIG. 13 according to various embodiments.

[0025] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 12 according to various embodiments.

[0026] FIG. 17 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a catch member is formed in the first outlet pipe in FIG. 16 according to various embodiments.

[0027] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 12 according to various embodiments.

[0028] FIG. 19 is a drawing showing a pair of flat portions processed to be inclined in FIG. 18 according to various embodiments.

[0029] FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating an outlet pipe, an inlet pipe, a second header, and a covering in a heat exchanger according to one embodiment according to various embodiments.

[0030] FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of FIG. 20 according to various embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 22 is a partially exploded perspective view illustrating the exploded view of FIG. 20 from a different angle according to various embodiments.

[0032] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line E-E' of FIG. 22, combining the configurations of FIG. 22 according to various embodiments.

[0033] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0034] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0035] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0036] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0037] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0038] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0039] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0040] The terms "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0041] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0042] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0043] An air conditioner according to various embodiments is a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling, or heating in an air-conditioned space (hereinafter referred to as “indoor”), and may refer to a device having at least one of these functions.

[0044] In one embodiment, an air conditioner may include a heat pump device to perform a cooling function or a heating function. The heat pump device may include a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant circulates along a compressor, a first heat exchanger, an expansion device, and a second heat exchanger. Components of the heat pump device may be housed in a single housing forming the exterior of the air conditioner, such as a window air conditioner or a portable air conditioner. On the other hand, some components of the heat pump device may be housed separately in multiple housings forming a single air conditioner, such as a wall-mounted air conditioner, a stand-alone air conditioner, and a system air conditioner.

[0045] An air conditioner including a plurality of housings may include at least one outdoor unit installed outdoors and at least one indoor unit installed indoors. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit and one indoor unit are connected via a refrigerant pipe. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units are connected via a plurality of refrigerant pipes.

[0046] The outdoor unit can be electrically connected to the indoor unit. For example, information (or commands) for controlling the air conditioner can be input through an input interface provided on the outdoor or indoor unit, and the outdoor and indoor units can operate simultaneously or sequentially in response to user input.

[0047] The air conditioner may include an outdoor heat exchanger provided in the outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger provided in the indoor unit, and a refrigerant pipe connecting the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0048] An outdoor heat exchanger can utilize a phase change (e.g., evaporation or condensation) of the refrigerant to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the outdoor air. For example, while the refrigerant condenses in the outdoor heat exchanger, it releases heat to the outdoor air, and while the refrigerant flowing in the outdoor heat exchanger evaporates, it absorbs heat from the outdoor air.

[0049] Indoor units are installed indoors. For example, indoor units can be categorized into ceiling-mounted, stand-alone, and wall-mounted types depending on their placement. For example, ceiling-mounted indoor units can be categorized into four-way, one-way, and duct-type indoor units depending on how air is discharged.

[0050] Similarly, an indoor heat exchanger can utilize the phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation) to exchange heat between the refrigerant and indoor air. For example, while the refrigerant evaporates in the indoor unit, the refrigerant can absorb heat from the indoor air. The cooled indoor air can then be blown through the cooled indoor heat exchanger, thereby cooling the room. Furthermore, while the refrigerant condenses in the indoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant can release heat to the indoor air. By blowing the heated indoor air through the high-temperature indoor heat exchanger, the room can be heated.

[0051] That is, the air conditioner performs a cooling or heating function through a phase change process of the refrigerant circulating between the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger. To circulate the refrigerant, the air conditioner may include a compressor that compresses the refrigerant. The compressor can suck in refrigerant gas through the suction port and compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor can discharge the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant gas through the discharge port. The compressor may be placed inside the outdoor unit.

[0052] The refrigerant may circulate through the refrigerant pipes in the order of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an indoor heat exchanger, or in the order of a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0053] For example, if an air conditioner has one outdoor unit and one indoor unit directly connected through a refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant may be arranged to circulate between one outdoor unit and one indoor unit through the refrigerant pipe.

[0054] For example, in an air conditioner, if one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant can flow to multiple indoor units via refrigerant pipes branching from the outdoor unit. The refrigerant discharged from the multiple indoor units can be combined and circulated to the outdoor unit. For example, multiple indoor units can be directly connected in parallel to a single outdoor unit via separate refrigerant pipes.

[0055] Multiple indoor units can operate independently, each according to a user-defined operating mode. That is, some indoor units can operate in cooling mode, while others operate in heating mode. In this case, the refrigerant can be selectively introduced into each indoor unit at high or low pressure along a designated circulation path via a flow-through valve, described in more detail below, and then discharged to the outdoor unit for circulation.

[0056] For example, when an air conditioner has two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units connected through multiple refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant discharged from the multiple outdoor units may merge and flow through a single refrigerant pipe, then branch off again at some point and flow into multiple indoor units.

[0057] Multiple outdoor units may be operated, or at least some may not be operated, depending on the operating load of the multiple indoor units. In this case, the refrigerant may be introduced into the outdoor unit, which is selectively operated, through a flow switching valve and circulated therein. The air conditioner may include an expansion device to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the heat exchanger. For example, the expansion device may be located within the indoor unit, the outdoor unit, or both.

[0058] An expansion device can, for example, utilize a throttling effect to lower the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. The expansion device may include an orifice capable of reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path. Refrigerant passing through the orifice may experience a decrease in temperature and pressure.

[0059] The expansion device may be implemented as, for example, an electronic expansion valve capable of controlling the opening ratio (the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path when partially open to the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path when fully open). Depending on the opening ratio of the electronic expansion valve, the amount of refrigerant passing through the expansion device can be controlled.

[0060] The air conditioner may further include a flow diverter valve positioned along the refrigerant circulation path. The flow diverter valve may include, for example, a four-way valve. The flow diverter valve may determine the refrigerant circulation path depending on the indoor unit's operating mode (e.g., cooling operation or heating operation). The flow diverter valve may be connected to the discharge port of the compressor.

[0061] The air conditioner may include an accumulator. The accumulator may be connected to the suction port of the compressor. The accumulator may receive low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant vaporized in an indoor heat exchanger or an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0062] The accumulator can separate the refrigerant liquid from the refrigerant gas when a refrigerant mixture of refrigerant liquid and refrigerant gas is introduced, and provide the refrigerant gas from which the refrigerant liquid has been separated to the compressor.

[0063] An outdoor fan may be installed near the outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor fan may blow outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger to promote heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air.

[0064] The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include at least one sensor. For example, the sensor of the outdoor unit may be provided as an environmental sensor. The outdoor unit sensor may be positioned at any location inside or outside the outdoor unit. For example, the outdoor unit sensor may include a temperature sensor for detecting the air temperature around the outdoor unit, a humidity sensor for detecting the air humidity around the outdoor unit, a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting the refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit, or a refrigerant pressure sensor for detecting the refrigerant pressure of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

[0065] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may be configured to receive a control signal from a control unit of an indoor unit of the air conditioner, which will be described in more detail below. The outdoor unit may control the operation of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, a flow switching valve, an accumulator, or an outdoor fan based on the control signal received through the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit may transmit a sensing value detected by an outdoor unit sensor to the control unit of the indoor unit through the outdoor unit communication unit.

[0066] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a housing, a blower for circulating air into or out of the housing, and an indoor heat exchanger for exchanging heat with air flowing into the interior of the housing.

[0067] The housing may include an intake port through which indoor air may be drawn into the interior of the housing.

[0068] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a filter that is provided to filter foreign substances in the air that flows into the housing through the intake port.

[0069] The housing may include an exhaust port. Air flowing within the housing may be discharged to the exterior of the housing through the exhaust port.

[0070] The housing of the indoor unit may be provided with an airflow guide that guides the direction of air discharged through the exhaust port. For example, the airflow guide may include blades positioned above the exhaust port. For example, the airflow guide may include an auxiliary fan for controlling the exhaust airflow. However, the airflow guide is not limited thereto and may be omitted.

[0071] An indoor heat exchanger and a blower may be provided inside the housing of the indoor unit, which are arranged on a path connecting the intake and exhaust ports.

[0072] Blowers may include indoor fans and fan motors. For example, indoor fans may include axial fans, diffusion fans, crossflow fans, and centrifugal fans.

[0073] An indoor heat exchanger may be positioned between the blower and the exhaust, or between the intake and the blower. The indoor heat exchanger may absorb heat from air drawn in through the intake or transfer heat to the air drawn in through the intake. The indoor heat exchanger may include heat exchange tubes through which refrigerant flows, and heat exchange fins in contact with the heat exchange tubes to increase the heat transfer surface area.

[0074] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a drain tray positioned below the indoor heat exchanger to collect condensate generated in the indoor heat exchanger. The condensate collected in the drain tray may be drained to the outside through a drain hose. The drain tray may be provided to support the indoor heat exchanger.

[0075] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an input interface. The input interface may include any type of user input means, including buttons, switches, a touch screen, and / or a touch pad. The user can directly input setting data (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operating mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, outlet selection settings, and / or air flow settings) through the input interface.

[0076] The input interface may also be connected to an external input device. For example, the input interface may be electrically connected to a wired remote controller. The wired remote controller may be installed at a specific location in an indoor space (e.g., a portion of a wall). A user may input configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner by operating the wired remote controller. Electrical signals corresponding to the configuration data obtained through the wired remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface. In addition, the input interface may include an infrared sensor. A user may remotely input configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner using a wireless remote controller. The configuration data input through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

[0077] Additionally, the input interface may include a microphone. A user's voice command may be acquired through the microphone. The microphone may convert the user's voice command into an electrical signal and transmit the converted electrical signal to an indoor unit control unit. The indoor unit control unit may control components of the air conditioner to execute a function corresponding to the user's voice command. Setting data acquired through the input interface (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operation mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, outlet selection settings, and / or air volume settings) may be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit, which will be described in more detail below. In one example, the setting data acquired through the input interface may be transmitted externally, i.e., to an outdoor unit or a server, through an indoor unit communication unit, which will be described in more detail below.

[0078] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a power module. The power module may be connected to an external power source to supply power to the components of the indoor unit.

[0079] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an indoor unit sensor. The indoor unit sensor may be an environmental sensor positioned in a space inside or outside the housing. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include one or more temperature sensors and / or humidity sensors positioned in a predetermined space inside or outside the housing of the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting a refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include respective refrigerant temperature sensors for detecting the inlet, middle, and / or outlet temperatures of the refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor heat exchanger.

[0080] For example, each environmental information detected by an indoor unit sensor can be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit, which will be described in more detail below, or transmitted externally through the indoor unit communication unit, which will be described in more detail below.

[0081] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit communication unit. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one antenna for wireless communication with other devices. The outdoor unit may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may also include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module.

[0082] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0083] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0084] The indoor unit communication unit can communicate with external devices such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances through a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the air conditioner or user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The air conditioner or user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit control unit that controls components of the indoor unit, including a blower, etc. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit control unit that controls components of the outdoor unit, including a compressor, etc. The indoor unit control unit can communicate with the outdoor unit control unit through the indoor unit communication unit and the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit can transmit control signals generated by the outdoor unit control unit to the indoor unit communication unit, or transmit control signals transmitted from the indoor unit communication unit to the outdoor unit control unit. In other words, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit can communicate bidirectionally. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit can transmit and receive various signals generated during the operation of the air conditioner.

[0085] The outdoor unit control unit can be electrically connected to components of the outdoor unit and can control the operation of each component. For example, the outdoor unit control unit can adjust the frequency of the compressor and control the flow switching valve to change the circulation direction of the refrigerant. The outdoor unit control unit can adjust the rotation speed of the outdoor fan. In addition, the outdoor unit control unit can generate a control signal to adjust the opening degree of the expansion valve. Under the control of the outdoor unit control unit, the refrigerant can circulate along a refrigerant circulation circuit including the compressor, the flow switching valve, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion valve, and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0086] The various temperature sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected temperatures to the outdoor unit control unit and / or the indoor unit control unit. For example, the humidity sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected humidity to the outdoor unit control unit and / or the indoor unit control unit.

[0087] The indoor unit control unit can obtain user input from a user device, including a mobile device, via the indoor unit communication unit, and can obtain user input directly through the input interface or via a remote controller. The indoor unit control unit can control components of the indoor unit, including a blower, in response to the received user input. The indoor unit control unit can transmit information regarding the received user input to the outdoor unit control unit of the outdoor unit.

[0088] The outdoor unit control unit can control the components of the outdoor unit, including the compressor, based on information regarding user input received from the indoor unit. For example, when a control signal corresponding to a user input for selecting an operation mode, such as cooling operation, heating operation, ventilation operation, defrosting operation, or dehumidification operation, is received from the indoor unit, the outdoor unit control unit can control the components of the outdoor unit so that the air conditioner performs an operation corresponding to the selected operation mode.

[0089] The outdoor unit control unit and the indoor unit control unit may each include a processor and a memory. The indoor unit control unit may include at least one first processor and at least one first memory, and the outdoor unit control unit may include at least one second processor and at least one second memory.

[0090] The memory can store / remember various information necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. The memory can store instructions, applications, data, and / or programs necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. For example, the memory can store various programs for cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and / or defrosting operations of the air conditioner. The memory can include volatile memory, such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory can include nonvolatile memory, such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), for storing data for a long period of time.

[0091] The processor may include various processing circuits and generate control signals for controlling the operation of the air conditioner based on instructions, applications, data, and / or programs stored in memory. The processor, as hardware, may include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor may process data according to programs and / or instructions provided from memory and generate control signals based on the processing results. The memory and processor may be implemented as a single control circuit or as multiple circuits.

[0092] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an output interface. The output interface is electrically connected to the indoor unit control unit and can output information related to the operation of the air conditioner under the control of the indoor unit control unit. For example, information such as an operating mode selected by a user input, wind direction, wind volume, and temperature may be output. Additionally, the output interface may output sensing information obtained from an indoor unit sensor or an outdoor unit sensor, as well as warning / error messages.

[0093] The output interface may include a display and a speaker. The speaker, as an audio device, can output various sounds. The display may display information input by the user or information provided to the user using various graphic elements. For example, operation information of an air conditioner may be displayed as at least an image or text. The display may also include an indicator that provides specific information. The display may include a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), a light emitting diode panel (LED), an organic light emitting diode panel (OLED), a micro LED panel, and / or a plurality of LEDs.

[0094] Hereinafter, a heat exchanger and an air conditioner including the same according to various embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

[0095] Fig. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of an air conditioner according to various embodiments. Fig. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a heat exchanger according to various embodiments.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the air conditioner (1) can suck in outside air (S) through an intake port. The air conditioner (1) can include a heat exchanger (2) configured to exchange heat with the sucked outside air.

[0097] The air conditioner (1) may include a housing. The heat exchanger (2) may be disposed internally within the housing.

[0098] The air conditioner (1) can discharge air to the outside (S) through an outlet. The air conditioner (1) can include a fan that can be driven to discharge air to the outside (S). The air conditioner (1) can discharge heat-exchanged air to the outside (S).

[0099] A heat exchanger (2) may be provided to exchange heat with air. The heat exchanger (2) may include a heat exchange tube (10) through which a refrigerant that exchanges heat with the sucked external (S) air flows, an upper header (300) and a lower header (100) which are provided to be in communication with the heat exchange tube (10), respectively. A plurality of heat exchange tubes (10) may be provided.

[0100] The heat exchanger (2) may include an inlet pipe (20) connected to the lower header (100). For example, when the air conditioner (1) is operated in a heating cycle, refrigerant may flow out to an expansion device outside the heat exchanger (2) through the inlet pipe (20). For example, when the air conditioner (1) is operated in a cooling cycle, refrigerant may flow into the lower header (100) through the inlet pipe (20).

[0101] The heat exchanger (2) may include an outlet pipe (200) connected to the lower header (100). For example, when the air conditioner (1) is operated in a heating cycle, refrigerant may be introduced into the lower header (100) through the outlet pipe (200). For example, when the air conditioner (1) is operated in a cooling cycle, refrigerant inside the lower header (100) may be discharged to the compressor through the outlet pipe (200).

[0102] For example, when the air conditioner (1) is in operation of the heating cycle, high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant can be introduced into the lower header (100) through the outlet pipe (200).

[0103] The introduced refrigerant passes through the heat exchange tube (10) and exchanges heat with the outside (S) air, thereby changing to a low temperature. The low-temperature refrigerant is condensed, and the condensed refrigerant can be discharged from the header to the expansion device through the inlet pipe (20). In other words, the heat exchanger (2) can function as a condenser during the heating cycle.

[0104] For example, when the air conditioner (1) is operating the cooling cycle, low-temperature, low-pressure liquid or gaseous refrigerant that has passed through the expansion valve can be introduced into the lower header (100) through the inlet pipe (20). The refrigerant introduced into the inlet pipe (20) can change to a high temperature by passing through the heat exchange tube (10) and exchanging heat with the outside (S) air. The refrigerant that has changed to a high temperature is expanded, and the expanded refrigerant can be discharged from the header to the compressor through the outlet pipe (200). That is, during the cooling cycle, the heat exchanger (2) can perform the role of an evaporator.

[0105] For convenience of explanation, the following description assumes that the heat exchanger of one embodiment of the present invention functions as an evaporator. However, as previously discussed, it is obvious that the heat exchanger can also function as a condenser.

[0106] For example, the heat exchange tube (10) may have a plurality of microchannels formed therein to allow refrigerant to flow. For example, the shape of the heat exchange tube (10) may include a roughly hollow cylindrical shape. For example, the heat exchange tube (10) may be provided so that its cross-section forms a roughly oval shape.

[0107] For example, the heat exchange tubes (10) may be arranged in two rows, a front row and a rear row. For example, the front row arranged on the front (+X direction) side may be defined and referred to as the first row, and the rear row arranged on the rear (-X direction) side may be defined and referred to as the second row. For example, the heat exchange tubes (10) may be arranged in the vertical direction (+-Z direction). For example, the heat exchange tubes (10) may be extruded and formed from aluminum.

[0108] Although not shown in the drawing, heat exchange fins that contact the tubes may be arranged between the heat exchange tubes (10) to increase the heat transfer area with the external (S) air, and the heat exchange fins may be arranged to contact the heat exchange tubes (10).

[0109] The heat exchange fins may be provided in various known forms, such as corrugated fins, and may have louvers to improve heat transfer and drainage performance. The heat exchange fins may be formed of aluminum and joined to the heat exchange tube (10) through, for example, a brazing process.

[0110] For example, the brazing process may include a method of joining base metals having a melting point higher than a certain temperature by placing a filler metal having a melting point lower than the melting point at the joining area of ​​the base metals and heating the filler metal to the temperature to melt the filler metal, thereby joining the base metals. As will be described later, in the present embodiment, a header and an outlet pipe are used as base metals, and soldering is used as a filler metal, so that the header and the outlet pipe can be joined through a brazing process. This will be described in more detail below.

[0111] The specific structure and shape of the heat exchange tube (10) described above are merely examples, and the heat exchange tube (10) may be provided in various structures and shapes through which refrigerant can flow.

[0112] The upper header (300) and the lower header (100) may be positioned so as to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. For example, the upper header (300) may be positioned higher (in the +Z direction) than the lower header (100).

[0113] A plurality of heat exchange tubes (10) can be arranged in the space formed between the upper header (300) and the lower head.

[0114] Each end of the plurality of heat exchange tubes (10) facing upward (in the +Z direction) may be connected to the upper header (300). Each internal space of the plurality of heat exchange tubes (10) may be provided to communicate with the interior of the upper header (300). Accordingly, the refrigerant flowing in each of the plurality of heat exchange tubes (10) may flow into the interior of the upper header (300).

[0115] Each of the ends of the plurality of heat exchange tubes (10) facing downward (-Z direction) may be connected to the lower header (100). Each internal space of the plurality of heat exchange tubes (10) may be provided to communicate with the interior of the lower header (100). Accordingly, the refrigerant flowing in each of the plurality of heat exchange tubes (10) may flow into the interior of the lower header (100).

[0116] Refrigerant can be supplied from an expansion device (not shown) to an inlet pipe (20). The refrigerant supplied to the inlet pipe (20) can flow into a lower header (100) connected to the inlet pipe (20). The refrigerant supplied to the lower header (100) can flow to an upper header (300) through a plurality of heat exchange tubes (10). Thereafter, the refrigerant that has completed heat exchange with air and flowed to the lower header (100) can be discharged back to the compressor (not shown) through an outlet pipe (200).

[0117] For example, the lower header (100) may be integrally joined to the inlet pipe (20) and the outlet pipe (200) by a brazing process. For example, for the brazing process, the lower header (100) may include at least one of the inlet pipe (20) and the outlet pipe (200) as a clad material.

[0118] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating some of a plurality of heat exchange tubes and an upper header in a heat exchanger according to various embodiments. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the upper header in FIG. 3 according to various embodiments. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 3 according to various embodiments. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' of FIG. 3 according to various embodiments, looking down from above (in the +Z direction).

[0119] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, 5 and 6 (which may also be referred to as FIGS. 3 to 6), the upper header (300) of the heat exchanger (2) may include an upper body (310) and an upper cover (320) detachably coupled to the upper body (310). Hereinafter, a plurality of heat exchange tubes (10) communicating with the upper header (300) will be briefly described as a first tube (11), a second tube (12), a third tube (13) and a fourth tube (14) for convenience of explanation.

[0120] The upper body (310) may include an upper body housing (311) forming an outer shape, a first row (3111) of the upper body forming a front (+X direction) side of the upper body (310) as a part of the upper body housing (311), a second row (3115) of the upper body forming a rear (-X direction) side of the upper body (310) as another part of the upper body housing (311), and an upper body bulkhead (3112) formed between the first row (3111) of the upper body and the second row (3115) of the upper body as another part of the upper body housing (311) and formed to extend downward (-Z direction).

[0121] The upper body housing (311) may be formed to extend in the left-right direction (+-Y). For example, the first row (3111) of the upper body and the second row (3115) of the upper body may be formed to be convex toward the upper side (+Z direction). The upper body bulkhead (3112) may also be formed to extend in the left-right direction.

[0122] When the upper body (310) is combined with the upper cover (320), the first row (3111) of the upper body and the upper body bulkhead (3112) can form a first upper chamber (312a) together with the upper cover (320). In other words, the first upper chamber (312a) can be defined as a space surrounded by the first row (3111) of the upper body, the upper body bulkhead (3112), and the upper cover (320). As will be described in more detail below, a portion of the upper cover chamber (R) formed by the upper cover housing (321) can also be defined as the first upper chamber (312a).

[0123] The upper body (310) may include first row header holes (341, 343) defined by both ends of the first upper chamber (312a). The first row header holes (341, 343) may be formed to communicate with the outside (S). As will be described later, the first row header holes (341, 343) may be closed from the outside (S) by a partition baffle, so that the refrigerant may flow stably in the first upper chamber (312a).

[0124] When the upper body (310) is coupled with the upper cover (320), the second row (3115) of the upper body and the upper body bulkhead (3112) can form a second upper chamber (312b) together with the upper cover (320). In other words, the second upper chamber (312b) can be defined as a space surrounded by the second row (3115) of the upper body, the upper body bulkhead (3112), and the upper cover (320). As will be described in more detail below, another part of the upper cover chamber (R) formed by the upper cover housing (321) can be defined as the second upper chamber (312b).

[0125] The upper body bulkhead (3112) can partition a first upper chamber (312a) and a second upper chamber (312b).

[0126] The upper body (310) may include second row header holes (342, 344) defined by both ends of the second upper chamber (312b). The second row header holes (342, 344) may be formed to communicate with the outside (S). As will be described later, the second row header holes (342, 344) may be closed from the outside (S) by a partition baffle, so that the refrigerant may flow stably in the second upper chamber (312b).

[0127] The upper body (310) may include an upper body joining rib (3114) formed on an upper body bulkhead (3112). The upper body joining rib (3114) may be formed to protrude downward (in the -Z direction) (on the -Z side) from the upper body bulkhead (3112).

[0128] The upper body joining rib (3114) may be formed to extend in the longitudinal direction (+-Y direction) of the upper body joining rib (3112) along the upper body bulkhead (3112). The upper body (310) and the upper cover (320) may be joined to each other by the upper body joining rib (3114) being inserted into the upper cover joining groove (323) of the upper cover (320) (described in more detail below).

[0129] The upper cover (320) may include an upper cover housing (321) forming an outer shape, and an upper cover lower surface (3211) forming a lower surface as a part of the upper cover housing (321). The upper cover housing (321) may be formed to extend in the left-right direction (+-Y).

[0130] The upper cover (320) may include a first row (3212) of the upper cover extending upward (in the +Z direction) from one end of the upper cover lower surface (3211) facing forward (in the +X direction) as another part of the upper cover housing (321).

[0131] The upper cover (320) may include a second row (3213) of the upper cover extending upward (in the +Z direction) from the other end of the lower surface (3211) of the upper cover facing rearward (in the -X direction) as another part of the upper cover housing (321).

[0132] The internal space surrounded by the upper cover (3211), the first row (3212) of the upper cover, and the second row (3213) of the upper cover can be defined as an upper cover chamber (R). The upper cover chamber (R) can include upper cover holes (341, 342, 343, 344) provided so that both ends are in communication with the outside (S).

[0133] When the upper body (310) and the upper cover (320) are combined, the upper cover holes (341, 342, 343, 344) can be defined as first-row header holes (341, 343) and second-row header holes (342, 344). In other words, both ends of a part of the upper cover chamber (R) forming the first row on the front (+X direction) side can be defined as first-row header holes (341, 343), and both ends of the remaining part of the upper cover chamber (R) forming the second row on the rear (-X direction) side can be defined as second-row header holes (342, 344).

[0134] The upper cover (320) may include an upper tube hole (322) formed on the lower surface of the upper cover (3211). The upper tube hole (322) may be provided in multiple numbers. When a plurality of heat exchange tubes (10) are coupled to the upper header (300), the plurality of upper tube holes (322) may be in communication with the interior of the plurality of heat exchange tubes (10).

[0135] Some of the plurality of upper tube holes (322) may include first row upper tube holes (322a) arranged along the longitudinal direction of the upper cover (320) in the first row (3212) of the upper cover. Some of the remaining plurality of upper tube holes (322) may include second row upper tube holes (322b) arranged along the longitudinal direction of the upper cover (320) in the second row (3213) of the upper cover.

[0136] For example, the first tube (11) may be coupled to communicate with one of the first row upper tube holes (322a). For example, the second tube (12) may be coupled to communicate with another of the first row upper tube holes (322a).

[0137] For example, the first tube (11) may be arranged to supply refrigerant from the lower header (100) to the first upper chamber (312a) of the upper header (300). For example, the second tube (12) may be arranged to recover refrigerant from the first upper chamber (312a) of the upper header (300) to the lower header (100).

[0138] For example, the refrigerant supplied to the first upper chamber (312a) through the first tube (11) can flow to the second tube (12) within the first upper chamber (312a) and be recovered to the lower header (100). For example, the refrigerant supplied to the second upper chamber (312b) through the third tube (13) can flow to the fourth tube (14) within the second upper chamber (312b) and be recovered to the lower header (100).

[0139] For example, the third tube (13) may be coupled to communicate with one of the second row upper tube holes (322b). For example, the fourth tube (14) may be coupled to communicate with another of the second row upper tube holes (322b). For example, the third tube (13) may be arranged to supply refrigerant from the lower header (100) to the second upper chamber (312b) of the upper header (300). For example, the fourth tube (14) may be arranged to recover refrigerant from the second upper chamber (312b) of the upper header (300) to the lower header (100).

[0140] The upper cover (320) may include an upper cover joining groove (323) extending along the longitudinal direction of the upper cover (320) on the upper cover lower surface (3211). For example, the upper cover joining groove (323) may include a groove formed on the inner surface of the upper cover lower surface (3211). The upper body joining rib (3114) of the upper body (310) may be inserted into the upper cover joining groove (323) of the upper cover (320), and thereby the upper body (310) and the upper cover (320) may be joined to each other.

[0141] The upper header (300) may include a partition baffle (331, 332, 333, 334) disposed at the upper portion. The partition baffle (331, 332, 333, 334) may include a plurality of partition baffles (331, 332, 333, 334). The partition baffles (331, 332, 333, 334) may be disposed between the upper body (310) and the upper cover (320) when the upper body (310) and the upper cover (320) are coupled. When the upper body (310) and the upper cover (320) are coupled, the partition baffles (331, 332, 333, 334) may be coupled with the upper body (310) and the upper cover (320).

[0142] Some of the plurality of compartment baffles (331, 333, 334) may be arranged at both ends of the first upper chamber (312a) to close the first row header holes (341, 343). By having some of the plurality of compartment baffles (331, 333) close the first row header holes (341, 343), the first upper chamber (312a) may be isolated from the outside (S). Accordingly, the refrigerant may flow stably within the first upper chamber (312a).

[0143] Among the plurality of compartment baffles (331, 332, 333, 334), other portions (332, 334) may be arranged at both ends of the second upper chamber (312b) to close the second row header holes (342, 344). By having other portions (332, 334) of the plurality of compartment baffles close the second row header holes (342, 344), the second upper chamber (312b) can be isolated from the outside (S). Therefore, the refrigerant can flow stably within the second upper chamber (312b).

[0144] FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a portion of a plurality of heat exchange tubes and a lower header in a heat exchanger according to various embodiments. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the lower header in FIG. 7 according to various embodiments. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a view looking up from below (in the -Z direction) along the CC' section line of FIG. 7 according to various embodiments.

[0145] Referring to FIGS. 7, 8 and 9 (which may also be referred to as FIGS. 7 to 9), the lower header (100) of the heat exchanger (2) may include a lower body (120) and a lower cover (110) that is detachably coupled to the lower body (120). The lower cover (110) may be referred to as a first header (110), and the lower body (120) may be referred to as a second header (120). Hereinafter, the lower cover (110) will be referred to as a first header (110), and the lower body (120) will be referred to as a second header (120).

[0146] The second header (120) may include a second header housing (121) forming an outer shape, a first row (1211) of second headers forming a front (+X direction) side of the second header (120) as a part of the second header housing (121), a second row (1213) of second headers forming a rear (-X direction) side of the second header (120) as another part of the second header housing (121), and a second header bulkhead (1212) formed between the first row (1211) of the second header and the second row (1213) of the second header as another part of the second header housing (121) and extending upward (+Z direction).

[0147] The second header housing (121) may be formed to extend in the left-right direction (+-Y direction). For example, the first row (1211) of the second header and the second row (1213) of the second header may be formed to be convex toward the bottom (-Z direction). The second header bulkhead (1212) may also be formed to extend in the left-right direction (+-Y direction).

[0148] When the second header (120) is combined with the first header (110), the first row (1211) of the second header and the second header bulkhead (1212) can form an inlet chamber (123a) and a first lower chamber (123b) together with the first header (110).

[0149] In other words, the inlet chamber (123a) and the first lower chamber (123b) can be defined as a space surrounded by the first row (1211) of the second header, the bulkhead of the second header (120), and the first header (110). As will be described in more detail below, a part of the chamber of the first header (110) formed by the first header housing (111) can also be defined as the inlet chamber (123a) and the first lower chamber (123b).

[0150] When the second header (120) is combined with the first header (110), the second row (1213) of the second header and the second header bulkhead (1212) can form a second lower chamber (123c) and an outlet chamber (123d) together with the first header (110).

[0151] In other words, the second lower chamber (123c) and the outlet chamber (123d) may be defined as a space surrounded by the second row (1213) of the second header, the second header bulkhead (1212), and the first header (110). As will be described in more detail below, another part of the chamber of the first header (110) formed by the first header housing (111) may be defined as the second lower chamber (123c) and the outlet chamber (123d).

[0152] The second header bulkhead (1212) can partition the inlet chamber (123a) and the first lower chamber (123b) from the second lower chamber (123c) and the outlet chamber (123d).

[0153] The second header bulkhead (1212) may include a second header bulkhead hole (1215). The second header bulkhead hole (1215) may be formed at a position where the first lower chamber (123b) and the second lower chamber (123c) communicate with each other. The second header bulkhead hole (1215) may be formed at a position where the inlet chamber (123a) and the outlet chamber (123d) do not communicate with each other. Therefore, the refrigerant flowing in the first lower chamber (123b) may pass through the second header bulkhead hole (1215) and flow into the second lower chamber (123c).

[0154] The second header (120) may include a second header joining rib (1214) formed on the second header bulkhead (1212). The second header joining rib (1214) may be formed to protrude upward (in the +Z direction) from the second header bulkhead (1212).

[0155] The second header joining rib (1214) can extend in the longitudinal direction of the second header bulkhead (1212) along the second header bulkhead (1212). By inserting the second header joining rib (1214) into the first header joining groove (143) of the first header (110) (described in more detail below), the second header (120) and the first header (110) can be joined to each other.

[0156] In the first row (1211) of the second header, a compartment baffle joining groove (122a, 122c, 122e) to which a compartment baffle (131, 133, 135) can be joined can be formed. The compartment baffle joining groove (122a, 122c, 122e) can include a plurality of compartment baffle joining grooves (122a, 122c, 122e).

[0157] For example, the partition baffle joining grooves (122a, 122c, 122e) may be formed at one end of the first row (1211) of the second header, at the other end of the first row (1211) of the second header, and at positions between the one end and the other end of the first row (1211) of the second header (122a, 122c, 122e, respectively). Accordingly, the partition baffles (131, 133, 135) may be spaced apart from each other and joined to the first row (1211) of the second header.

[0158] For example, a space formed by a partition baffle (133) coupled to one end of the first row (1211) of the second header and a partition baffle (135) positioned between one end and the other end of the first row (1211) of the second header may be defined as an inlet chamber (123a).

[0159] For example, a space formed by a partition baffle (131) coupled to the other end of the first row (1211) of the second header and a partition baffle (135) positioned between one end and the other end of the first row of the second header (120) being spaced apart from each other can be defined as a first lower chamber (123b).

[0160] A second row (1213) of the second header may be formed with compartment baffle joining grooves (122b, 122d, 122f) that can be joined to compartment baffles (132, 134, 136). The compartment baffle joining grooves (122b, 122d, 122f) may include a plurality of compartment baffle joining grooves (122b, 122d, 122f).

[0161] For example, the partition baffle joining grooves (122b, 122d, 122f) may be formed at one end of the second row (1213) of the second header, at the other end of the second row (1213) of the second header, and at positions between one end and the other end of the second row (1213) of the second header (122d, 122b, 122f, respectively). Accordingly, the partition baffles (132, 134, 136) may be spaced apart from each other in the second row (1213) of the second header and joined to the second row (1213) of the second header.

[0162] For example, a space formed by a partition baffle (134) coupled to one end of the second row (1213) of the second header and a partition baffle (136) positioned between one end and the other end of the second row (1213) of the second header may be defined as an outlet chamber (123d).

[0163] For example, the space formed by the partition baffle (132) coupled to the other end of the second row (1213) of the second header and the partition baffle (136) positioned between one end and the other end of the second row of the second header (120) may be defined as a second lower chamber (123c).

[0164] The second header bulkhead (1212) is arranged to partition the inlet chamber (123a) and the first lower chamber (123b) from the second lower chamber (123c) and the outlet chamber (123d), so that as a result, the inlet chamber (123a), the first lower chamber (123b), the second lower chamber (123c), and the outlet chamber (123d) can be partitioned from each other.

[0165] The first header (110) may include a first header joining groove (143) formed so that a second header joining rib (1214) of the second header (120) can be inserted therein. By inserting the second header joining rib (1214) into the first header joining groove (143), the second header (120) and the first header (110) can be joined to each other.

[0166] The first header (110) may include a lower tube hole (141) formed on the upper surface (1114) of the first header. The lower tube hole (141) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple lower tube holes (141) may be provided to penetrate the first header (110) and communicate with an internal space formed by combining the first header (110) and the second header (120).

[0167] When a plurality of heat exchange tubes (10) are coupled to the lower header (100), a plurality of lower tube holes (141) can be connected to the inside of the plurality of heat exchange tubes (10).

[0168] Some of the plurality of lower tube holes (141) may include first row lower tube holes (141) arranged along the longitudinal direction of the first header (110) in the first row (1111) of the first header. Some of the remaining plurality of lower tube holes (141) may include second row lower tube holes (141) arranged along the longitudinal direction of the first header (110) in the second row (1113) of the first header.

[0169] For example, the first tube (11) may be coupled to the first header (110) so as to communicate with the first row lower tube hole (141) that is in communication with the inlet chamber (123a) among the first row lower tube holes (141). For example, the second tube (12) may be coupled to the first header (110) so as to communicate with the first row lower tube hole (141) that is in communication with the first lower chamber (123b) among the first row lower tube holes (141).

[0170] For example, the third tube (13) may be coupled to the first header (110) so as to communicate with the second-row lower tube hole (141) that is in communication with the second lower chamber (123c) among the second-row lower tube holes (141). For example, the fourth tube (14) may be coupled to the first header (110) so as to communicate with the second-row lower tube hole (141) that is in communication with the outlet chamber (123d) among the first-row lower tube holes (141).

[0171] The first header (110) may include an inlet pipe insertion hole (142) into which an inlet pipe (20) is inserted. For example, the inlet pipe insertion hole (142) may be formed in the first row (1111) of the first header so as to communicate with the inlet chamber (123a). The inlet pipe (20) may be inserted into the inlet pipe insertion hole (142) to supply refrigerant to the inlet chamber (123a).

[0172] The second header (120) may include a hole (140) into which an outlet pipe (200) is inserted. For example, the hole (140) may be formed through the second header housing (121) to communicate with the outlet chamber (123d).

[0173] For example, a hole (140) may be formed in the second row (1213) of the second header to communicate with the outlet chamber (123d). For example, the hole (140) may be formed on the lower surface of the second row (1213) of the second header. An outlet pipe (200) may be inserted into the hole (140) to communicate with the outlet chamber (123d).

[0174] The heat exchanger (2) may include a solder ring (also referred to as a covering) (150) provided to cover the inner boundary portion (b1) formed by the inner surface (1231a) of the second header where the hole (140) is formed and the outer surface of the outlet pipe (200). The solder ring (150) can prevent the refrigerant contained in the outlet chamber (123d) from leaking to the outside (S) through the penetration surface (b3) of the hole (140) and from leaking to the outside (S) directly through the hole (140) without passing through the outlet pipe (200). A detailed description of the solder ring (150) will be described later.

[0175] Below, the refrigerant flow in the heat exchanger (2) is briefly examined.

[0176] The inlet pipe (20) can supply refrigerant to the inlet chamber (123a) of the lower header (100) (Fa). The supplied refrigerant can be supplied from the inlet chamber (123a) to the first tube (11) and exchange heat with air (F1).

[0177] The refrigerant flowing in the first tube (11) can flow into the first upper chamber (312a) of the upper header (300). The refrigerant flowing into the first upper chamber (312a) can be transferred to the second tube (12) (F12) and flow into the first lower chamber (123b) of the lower header (100) (F2).

[0178] The refrigerant flowing into the first lower chamber (123b) can flow into the second lower chamber (123c) through the second header bulkhead hole (1215) (Fb). The refrigerant flowing into the second lower chamber (123c) can flow into the second upper chamber (312b) of the upper header (300) through the third tube (13) (F3).

[0179] Thereafter, the refrigerant flows in the second upper chamber (312b) (F34) and can move to the outlet chamber (123d) of the lower header (100) through the fourth tube (14) (F4). The refrigerant moved to the outlet chamber (123d) can be discharged to the compressor of the heat exchanger (2) through the outlet pipe (200) (Fc).

[0180] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line DD' of FIG. 7 according to various embodiments. FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of area A of FIG. 10 according to various embodiments. FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating an outlet pipe, a second header, and soldering in a heat exchanger according to various embodiments. FIG. 13 is a partial exploded view illustrating an outlet pipe, a second header, and soldering in a heat exchanger according to various embodiments. FIG. 14 is a side view of FIG. 13 according to various embodiments. FIG. 15 is a top view of FIG. 13 according to various embodiments.

[0181] Referring to FIGS. 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 (which may also be referred to as FIGS. 10 to 15), the outlet pipe (200) may include an outlet pipe body (210) forming an outer shape. The outlet pipe (200) may include an inlet hole (221) formed at one end of the outlet pipe (200) to allow refrigerant to flow into the outlet pipe (200) flow path (222).

[0182] The hole (140) can be formed to penetrate the second header (120). For example, it can be expressed that the hole (140) is formed in a space surrounded by a penetration surface (b3) formed by penetrating the second header (120).

[0183] The outlet pipe (200) may be coupled to the second header (120) such that the outlet body passes through the hole (140) and the inlet hole (221) communicates with the outlet chamber (123d). For example, since the hole (140) may be formed on the lower surface of the second header (120), the outlet pipe (200) may include a bent shape to be inserted into the hole (140).

[0184] The outlet pipe (200) may include a first outlet pipe (200A) positioned so as to be located inside the outlet chamber (123d), and a second outlet pipe (200B) extending from the first outlet pipe (200A).

[0185] For example, the second outlet pipe (200B) may mean a portion of the outlet pipe (200) other than the first outlet pipe (200A).

[0186] For example, the first outlet pipe (200A) located inside the outlet chamber (123d) may mean a part of the outlet pipe (200) that is placed inside the outlet chamber (123d) without contacting the penetration surface (b3).

[0187] For example, the second outlet pipe (200B) other than the first outlet pipe (200A) may mean another part of the outlet pipe (200) that is in contact with the penetration surface (b3) and the remaining part of the outlet pipe (200) that is arranged to extend to the outside (S) from the first outlet pipe (200A).

[0188] For example, the outlet pipe (200) may be formed to have a cross-section that is approximately oval in shape.

[0189] The first outlet pipe (200A) may include a pair of flat portions (214) and a pair of curved portions (213) connecting the pair of flat portions (214) to each other.

[0190] A pair of planar portions (214) may include a first planar portion (214a) and a second planar portion (214b) formed to be spaced apart from the first planar portion (214a). The outlet pipe (200) may be coupled to the second header (120) such that the planar portions (214) extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the second header (120).

[0191] The curved portion (213) may include a first curved portion (213a) provided to connect each end of a pair of flat portions (214), and a second curved portion (213b) provided to connect each end of a pair of flat portions (214). For example, the pair of curved portions (213) may be formed to be convex in the radial direction of the cross-section of the outlet pipe (200).

[0192] A pair of flat portions (214) and a pair of curved portions (213) can be connected to each other to form an inlet hole (221). For example, an end of the flat portion (214) or an end of the curved portion (213) can be arranged to face the first header (110).

[0193] As previously discussed, the inner surface (1231a) of the second header and the outer surface of the first outlet pipe (200A) may be in contact with each other to form an inner boundary portion (b1). For example, the inner boundary portion (b1) may refer to an upper (+Z direction) end of the penetration surface (b3).

[0194] The outer surface of the second header (120) and the outer surface of the second outlet pipe (200B) may be in contact with each other to form an outer boundary portion (b2). For example, the outer boundary portion (b2) may refer to one end of the lower side (-Z direction) of the penetration surface (b3).

[0195] The soldering (150) may be arranged to cover the inner boundary (b1). The soldering (150) may include a pair of long side portions (152) and a pair of curved portions (151) connecting the pair of long side portions (152) to each other.

[0196] A pair of long sides (152) may include a first long side (152a) and a second long side (152b) formed to be spaced apart from the first long side (152a). The soldering (150) may be arranged in the outlet chamber (123d) such that the long sides extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the second header (120).

[0197] The curved portion (151) may include a first curved portion (151a) provided to connect each end of a pair of long side portions (152), and a second curved portion (151b) provided to connect each end of a pair of long side portions (152).

[0198] The soldering (150) may be arranged along the outer surface of the first outlet pipe (200A). The soldering (150) may be arranged to cover a portion of the outer surface of the first outlet pipe (200A).

[0199] For example, the soldering (150) can be inserted into a boundary groove (G) formed by the inner surface (1231a) of the second header and the outer surface of the first outlet pipe (200A).

[0200] For example, the soldering (150) may be placed in the outlet chamber (123d) so as to be in contact with the inner surface (1231a) of the second header and the outer surface of the first outlet pipe (200A) at the same time. For example, the soldering (150) may be placed so that the first long side portion (152a) is in contact with the first flat side portion (214a) of the first outlet pipe (200A) and the inner surface (1231a) of the second header, and the second long side portion (152b) is in contact with the second flat side portion (214b) and the inner surface (1231a) of the second header.

[0201] For example, the soldering (150) can be arranged so that the first curved portion (151a) contacts the first curved portion (213a) of the first outlet pipe (200A) and the inner surface (1231a) of the second header, and the second curved portion (151b) contacts the second curved portion (213b) of the first outlet pipe (200A) and the inner surface (1231a) of the second header.

[0202] For example, soldering (150) may include a filler metal. As previously discussed, the second header (120) and the outlet pipe (200) may be joined by a brazing process.

[0203] In the brazing process, the base materials and the filler metal may be simultaneously heated to join the base materials through melting and solidification of the filler metal. In this case, the soldering (150) may function as the filler metal. Accordingly, the melting point of the soldering (150) may be set lower than the melting points of the second header (120) and the outlet pipe (200).

[0204] In one embodiment of the present invention, the second header (120), outlet pipe (200), and soldering (150) may be first placed for brazing connection, and then a separate caulking process may be performed to form a stud (241) before heating them. A detailed description of the caulking process will be provided below.

[0205] Since the soldering (150) is arranged to cover the inner boundary (b1), the phenomenon of the refrigerant contained in the outlet chamber (123d) leaking to the outside (S) through the penetration surface (b3) of the hole (140) and the phenomenon of the refrigerant leaking to the outside (S) directly through the hole (140) without passing through the outlet pipe (200) can be prevented / reduced.

[0206] The second outlet pipe (200B) can extend from the first outlet pipe (200A) to the outside (S) through the hole (140).

[0207] The second outlet pipe (200B) may include a lead (230) formed to cover the outer boundary (b2). The lead (230) may be formed along the outer surface of the second outlet pipe (200B). The lead (230) may be formed to protrude radially from the outer surface of the second outlet pipe (200B).

[0208] One side (232) of the lead facing the second header (120) can be arranged to cover the outer boundary (b2) on the outside of the second header (120). One side (232) of the lead facing the second header (120) can come into contact with the lower surface of the second header (120) where the outer boundary (b2) is formed.

[0209] Since the outer boundary (b2) is covered by the lead (230), it is possible to additionally prevent / block the phenomenon of the refrigerant contained in the outlet chamber (123d) leaking to the outside (S) through the penetration surface (b3) of the hole (140) and the phenomenon of leaking to the outside (S) directly through the hole (140) without passing through the outlet pipe (200).

[0210] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 12 according to various embodiments. Fig. 17 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a catch member is formed on the first outlet pipe in Fig. 16 according to various embodiments.

[0211] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, as previously discussed, the second header (120) and the outlet pipe (200) can be joined through a brazing process using soldering (150) as a filler material.

[0212] The first outlet pipe (200A) may include a catch (241) protruding in the radial direction of the first outlet pipe (200A) from the outer surface of the first outlet pipe (200A).

[0213] More specifically, when the first outlet pipe (200A) is placed inside the outlet chamber (123d) through the hole (140) for the brazing process and the inner boundary (b1) is covered by soldering (150), a caulking process can be performed to form a stud (241) in the first outlet pipe (200A).

[0214] For example, the caulking process may be a process in which a force is applied in the radial direction of the first outlet pipe (200A) to a portion of the first outlet pipe (200A) so that the first outlet pipe (200A) is deformed to form a stumbling block (241).

[0215] For example, the catch (241) may be formed to protrude in a direction (+-Y direction) parallel to the direction in which the second header (120) extends. For example, the catch (241) may include a plurality of catches (241a, 241b). The plurality of catches (241a, 241b) may be arranged to face each other. The plurality of catches (241a, 241b) may be formed to be arranged together on an extension line parallel to the direction in which the second header (120) extends.

[0216] Through the caulking process, the maximum length in the direction in which the second header (120) of the first outlet pipe (200A) extends can be greater than the length in the direction in which the second header (120) of the hole (140) extends.

[0217] The maximum length in the direction in which the second header (120) of the first outlet pipe (200A) extends may refer to the length from one end of one of the plurality of studs (241a, 241b) to the other end. Accordingly, the first outlet pipe (200A) is prevented or inhibited from being separated from the outlet chamber (123d), so that the brazing process can be performed stably.

[0218] For example, the soldering (150) may be positioned closer to the inner surface (1231a) of the second header than the stud (241). In other words, the soldering (150) may be positioned between the hole (140) and the stud (241).

[0219] The length of the second header (120) of the soldering (150) in the direction of extension may be less than the maximum length of the second header (120) of the first outlet pipe (200A) in the direction of extension. Accordingly, the soldering (150) can stably cover the inner boundary (b1) without being separated from the first outlet pipe (200A). Therefore, the brazing process can be stably performed.

[0220] For example, a stumbling block (241) may be formed on a curved portion (213) of the first outlet pipe (200A). A plurality of stumbling blocks (241a, 241b) may be formed on each of a pair of curved portions (213).

[0221] When the catch (241) is formed on the curved portion (213) through a caulking process, the curved portion (213) may include inclined surfaces (213a', 213b') that are formed to be inclined as the catch (241) protrudes. In other words, the curved portion (213) may include inclined surfaces (213a', 213b') that extend from a boundary line formed by the contact between the curved portion (213) and the inner surface (1231a) of the second header toward the catch (241).

[0222] Since the stumbling block (241) is formed to protrude in the radial direction of the first outlet pipe (200A) from above (+Z direction) the soldering (150), the inclined surfaces (213a', 213b') can be formed to be inclined in the direction toward the soldering (150).

[0223] Through this, the soldering (150) can be pressed and supported toward the inner surface (1231a) of the second header by being pressed against the inclined slope (213a', 213b'). Accordingly, the soldering (150) may not be separated from the inner surface (1231a) of the second header, and the soldering (150) may not be separated from the first outlet pipe (200A).

[0224] For example, the stumbling block (241) can be formed on the curved portion (213) at a height where the flat portion (214) and the inner surface (1231a) of the second header come into contact with one end of the first outlet pipe (200A) facing the outlet chamber (123d).

[0225] Since the second row (1213) of the second header includes a convex shape toward the lower side (-Z direction) (see FIGS. 14 and 16), the curved portion (151) of the soldering (150) may be inclined toward the lower side (-Z direction) to cover the hole (140) formed in the second row (1213) of the second header and may be positioned lower (-Z direction) than the long side portion (152).

[0226] In addition, since the catch (241) is formed on the curved portion (213) of the first outlet pipe (200A) that is arranged to come into contact with the curved portion (151), the position of the curved portion (213) where the catch (241) is formed can be positioned higher (in the +Z direction) than the position of the inner boundary portion (b1) formed by the curved portion (213) and the inner surface (1231a) of the second header. Accordingly, since the catch (241) is formed higher (in the +Z direction) than the soldering (150) that covers the inner boundary portion (b1), the soldering (150) can be effectively prevented or suppressed from being separated from the first outlet pipe (200A).

[0227] Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 12 according to various embodiments. Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a pair of flat portions processed to be inclined in Fig. 18 according to various embodiments.

[0228] Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, a pair of flat portions (214) may be formed to be inclined in the outward direction of the first outlet pipe (200A), respectively. For example, a pair of flat portions (214) may be formed to be bent in the outward direction of the first outlet pipe (200A).

[0229] When a catch (241) is formed by caulking on a pair of curved portions (213), the flat portions (214) can receive a tensile force in the direction toward each curved portion (213). In addition, when heating for the brazing process is started while the flat portions (214) are receiving a tensile force, the flat portions (214) may be damaged. At this time, if the flat portions (214) are deformed to be inclined in the outer direction of the first outlet pipe (200A), the above-mentioned damage phenomenon can be prevented and / or reduced.

[0230] In addition, since the flat portions (214) are inclined toward the outside of the first outlet pipe (200A), the phenomenon of soldering (150) coming off can be more effectively prevented or suppressed.

[0231] Afterwards, the outlet pipe (200), the second header (120), and the soldering (150) are heated through a brazing process to stably connect the outlet pipe (200) and the second header (120).

[0232] For example, in one embodiment of the present invention, a space for arranging a separate coupling block for coupling the outlet pipe (200) and the second header (120) is not required, so a heat exchanger (2) with increased space utilization can be provided.

[0233] FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating an outlet pipe, an inlet pipe, a second header, and soldering in a heat exchanger according to various embodiments. FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of FIG. 20 according to various embodiments. FIG. 22 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating the exploded view of FIG. 20 from a different angle according to various embodiments. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the components of FIG. 22 combined according to various embodiments and taken along the E-E' line of FIG. 22. In the following, descriptions of contents overlapping with the above contents may not be repeated.

[0234] Referring to FIGS. 20, 21, 22 and 23 (which may also be referred to as FIGS. 20 to 23), the outlet pipe (400) can be coupled with the second header (520).

[0235] The second header (520) may include a first through hole (540a) formed to open toward the front. The first header (510) may include a second through hole (540b) formed to open toward the front.

[0236] When the first header (510) and the second header (520) are combined, the first through hole (540a) and the second through hole (540b) can be connected to each other to form a through hole (540). The through hole (540) can be formed to be connected to the inlet chamber (523a).

[0237] An outlet pipe (400) can be inserted into the interior of the lower header (500) through a through hole (540).

[0238] As will be described in more detail below, the outlet pipe (400) inserted through the through hole (540) can pass through the inlet chamber (523a) without being in communication with the inlet chamber (523a). The outlet pipe (400) can pass through the hole (560) formed in the second header bulkhead (5212) so that one end where the inlet hole (440) is formed is in communication with the outlet chamber (523d). In conclusion, the interior of the outlet pipe (400) can be in communication with the outlet chamber (523d).

[0239] The first header (510) may include a first lead (5115) provided to cover the outer circumference of the second through hole (540b). In other words, the first lead (5115) may be formed to cover a first boundary formed by the outer surface of the second outlet pipe (400B) disposed outside the first header (510) and the inner surface of the first header (510).

[0240] The second header may include a second lead (5211a) provided to cover the outer periphery of the first through hole (540a). In other words, the second lead (5211a) may be formed to cover a second boundary formed by the outer surface of the second outlet pipe (400B) disposed externally and the inner surface of the second header (520).

[0241] When the first header (510) and the second header (520) are coupled, the first lead (5115) and the second lead (5211a) can be connected to each other to form leads (5115, 5211a). When the first header (510) and the second header (520) are coupled, the first boundary portion and the second boundary portion can be connected to each other to form a boundary portion that is the outer periphery of the through hole (540). The boundary portion can be formed on each outer surface of the first header (510) and the second header (520).

[0242] When the first header (510) and the second header (520) are coupled, the leads (5115, 5211a) may be arranged to cover the outer circumference of the through hole (540). When the outlet pipe (400) is coupled to the lower header (500), the leads (5115, 5211a) may be arranged to surround the outer circumference of the outlet pipe (400). In other words, the leads (5115, 5211a) may be formed to cover the boundary formed by the outer surface of the second outlet pipe (400B) arranged externally and the inner surface of the second header (520). Accordingly, the phenomenon of the refrigerant flowing in the inlet chamber (20) leaking to the outside through the through hole (540) can be prevented and / or reduced.

[0243] The second header bulkhead (also referred to as a bulkhead) (5212) may include a hole (560) that communicates the inlet chamber (523a) and the outlet chamber (523d). An outlet pipe (400) may be inserted into the hole (560) through the inlet chamber (523a) to communicate with the outlet chamber (523d).

[0244] The hole (560) may include a first groove (561) formed on one side (5212a) of the partition wall (5212) facing the outlet chamber (523d). The hole (560) may include a second groove (562) formed on the other side (5212b) of the partition wall (5212). The other side (5212b) of the partition wall (5212) may refer to one side (5212b) of the partition wall (5212) facing the inlet chamber (523a).

[0245] The first groove (561) and the second groove (562) can be connected to each other to form a hole (560).

[0246] For example, the outer diameter of the second groove (562) may be provided to be larger than the outer diameter of the first groove (561). Accordingly, the through-surface formed in the partition wall (5212) to surround the outside of the hole (560) may be formed to be bent at the point where the first groove (561) and the second groove (562) are in communication. That is, the partition wall (5212) may include a bent portion formed at the point where the first groove (561) and the second groove (562) are in communication.

[0247] The soldering (550) can be inserted into the bend. The soldering (550) can be arranged along the outer circumference of the second outlet pipe (400B).

[0248] The outlet pipe (400) may include a pipe lead (430). For example, the pipe lead (430) may be formed to extend radially from the outer surface of the second outlet pipe (400B) to the second outlet pipe (400B). The pipe lead (430) may be formed along the outer circumference of the second outlet pipe (400B).

[0249] The pipe lead (430) may be positioned to contact one surface (5212b) of the second header bulkhead (5212) facing the inlet chamber (523a). As previously discussed, one surface (5212b) of the second header bulkhead (5212) facing the inlet chamber (523a) may be the other surface of the second header bulkhead (5212) facing the outlet chamber (523d).

[0250] In other words, the pipe lead (430) can be formed to cover the bulkhead boundary (5212c) formed by the outer surface of the second outlet pipe (400B) and the other surface (5212b) of the bulkhead.

[0251] Since the pipe lead (430) covers the bulkhead boundary (5212c), the phenomenon of the refrigerant flowing in the outlet chamber (523d) leaking through the hole (560) rather than through the outlet pipe (400) can be prevented and / or reduced. In addition, the soldering (550) can be stably accommodated in the bending portion.

[0252] The first outlet pipe (400A) may include a catch (441) formed on a curved portion (413) and formed to protrude in the radial direction of the first outlet pipe (400A). In addition, the flat portion (414) of the first outlet pipe (400A) may be formed to be inclined in the radial direction of the first outlet pipe (400A) (414a', 414b). Accordingly, the first outlet pipe (400A) can be prevented or suppressed from being separated from the outlet chamber (523d), and the brazing process can be stably performed.

[0253] That is, in one embodiment of the present invention, a space for arranging a separate coupling block for coupling the outlet pipe (400) and the second header (520) is not required, so a heat exchanger (3) with increased space utilization can be provided.

[0254] A heat exchanger according to an exemplary embodiment may include a header including a first header and a second header detachably coupled to the first header, the header forming an outlet chamber for receiving a refrigerant. The heat exchanger may include a heat exchange tube connected to the first header, the heat exchange tube configured to allow the refrigerant to pass through the heat exchange tube and exchange heat with outside air. The heat exchanger may include an outlet pipe inserted into a hole penetrating the second header and communicating with the outlet chamber, brazed to the second header, communicating with the outlet chamber, and configured to discharge the refrigerant within the outlet chamber. The outlet pipe may include a first outlet pipe disposed in the outlet chamber and a second outlet pipe extending externally from the first outlet pipe. The first outlet pipe may include a catch that protrudes radially from an outer surface of the first outlet pipe to prevent movement of the first outlet pipe away from the outlet chamber.

[0255] The above heat exchanger may further include a solder ring covering an inner boundary formed by contact between the inner surface of the second header forming the hole and the outer surface of the first outlet pipe.

[0256] The soldering is placed in the outlet chamber and can contact the inner surface of the second header and the outer surface of the first outlet pipe.

[0257] The soldering may be arranged adjacent to the inner surface of the second header rather than the stud.

[0258] The first outlet pipe may include a pair of flat portions extending in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the second header. The first outlet pipe may include a curved portion connecting the pair of flat portions to each other. The catch may be formed on the curved portion.

[0259] The above-mentioned stumbling block may be formed on the curved portion at a height where the flat portion and the inner surface of the second header come into contact with one end of the first outlet pipe facing the outlet chamber.

[0260] The above-mentioned curved portion may further include an inclined surface extending from a boundary line formed by contact between the curved portion and the inner surface of the second header toward the catch. The soldering may be supported on the inclined surface so as not to be separated from the inner surface of the second header.

[0261] The above pair of flat portions may be formed to be inclined in the outer direction of the first outlet pipe.

[0262] The above soldering may include a filler metal.

[0263] The outlet pipe may include a second outlet pipe extending outward from the first outlet pipe and passing through the hole. The second outlet pipe may include a lead covering an outer boundary formed by contact between an outer surface of the second header forming the hole and an outer surface of the second outlet pipe.

[0264] The lead may be formed to protrude radially from the outer surface of the second header. One side of the lead facing the second header may be in contact with the outer surface of the second header and may cover the outer boundary portion on the outside of the second header.

[0265] The second header may include a partition wall in which the hole is formed, and may include a partition wall protruding from the inner surface of the second header toward the first header so as to divide the interior of the header into the outlet chamber and a chamber other than the outlet chamber. The second outlet pipe may extend from the first outlet pipe to the outside through a chamber other than the outlet chamber.

[0266] The hole may include a first groove formed on one surface of the partition wall facing the outlet chamber. The hole may include a second groove formed on the other surface of the partition wall, communicating with the first groove, and having a larger radius than the first groove. The heat exchanger may further include a solder ring inserted into a bend formed by the first groove and the second groove.

[0267] The second outlet pipe may include a lead covering a partition wall boundary formed by the contact between the other surface of the partition wall forming the hole (560) and the outer surface of the second outlet pipe.

[0268] The first header may include a first lead that covers a first boundary formed by contact between an outer surface of the second outlet pipe disposed externally and an inner surface of the first header. The second header may include a second lead that covers a second boundary formed by contact between an outer surface of the second outlet pipe disposed externally and an inner surface of the second header. By combining the first header and the second header, the first lead and the second lead may be connected to each other.

[0269] A heat exchanger according to one embodiment includes a header forming an inlet chamber configured to receive refrigerant to be introduced and an outlet chamber configured to receive refrigerant to be discharged to the outside. The heat exchanger (2) includes a heat exchange tube connected to the header (100) and configured to allow refrigerant to pass through the heat exchange tube and exchange heat with outside air. The heat exchanger includes an inlet pipe configured to communicate with the inlet chamber and supply refrigerant to the inlet chamber, and an outlet pipe connected to the header by brazing, inserted into a hole penetrating the header and communicating with the outlet chamber, and configured to discharge refrigerant inside the outlet chamber. The outlet pipe includes a first outlet pipe disposed in the outlet chamber and a second outlet pipe extending to the outside from the first outlet pipe. The first outlet pipe includes a catch that protrudes radially from the outer surface of the first outlet pipe to prevent movement of the first outlet pipe away from the outlet chamber.

[0270] The heat exchanger may further include a solder ring that covers an inner boundary formed by contact between the inner surface of the header forming the hole and the outer surface of the first outlet pipe. The solder ring may be positioned in the outlet chamber so as to be in contact with the inner surface of the header and the outer surface of the first outlet pipe.

[0271] The header may include a partition wall in which the hole is formed, which may protrude from the inner surface of the header to divide the interior of the header into the inlet chamber and the outlet chamber. The second outlet pipe may extend to the outside from the first outlet pipe communicating with the outlet chamber through the inlet chamber.

[0272] The header may include a first header and a second header detachably coupled to the first header. The first header may include a first lead covering a first boundary formed by contact between an outer surface of the second outlet pipe disposed externally and an inner surface of the first header. The second header may include a second lead covering a second boundary formed by contact between an outer surface of the second outlet pipe disposed externally and an inner surface of the second header. The first header and the second header may be coupled such that the first lead may be connected to the second lead.

[0273] An air conditioner according to an exemplary embodiment may include a housing having an intake port configured to suck in air and an exhaust port configured to discharge heat-exchanged air. The air conditioner may include a heat exchanger disposed inside the housing and configured to exchange heat with the sucked air. The air conditioner may include a fan configured to be driven to discharge the heat-exchanged air to the outside. The heat exchanger may include a first header and a second header detachably coupled to the first header. The heat exchanger may include a header forming an outlet chamber that receives a refrigerant. The heat exchanger may include a heat exchange tube connected to the first header, the heat exchange tube configured to allow the refrigerant to pass through the heat exchange tube and exchange heat with outside air. The heat exchanger includes an outlet pipe inserted into a hole penetrating the second header and communicating with the outlet chamber, joined to the second header by brazing, communicating with the outlet chamber, and configured to discharge the refrigerant from the outlet chamber to the outside. The outlet pipe includes a first outlet pipe disposed in the outlet chamber and a second outlet pipe extending outward from the first outlet pipe. The first outlet pipe includes a catch that protrudes radially from an outer surface of the first outlet pipe to prevent movement of the outlet pipe away from the outlet chamber.

[0274] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a separate connecting block or the like for connecting an outlet pipe to a header may not be included, thereby increasing space utilization.

[0275] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the outlet pipe may include a stud, thereby preventing or suppressing the phenomenon of the outlet pipe being detached from the header during the brazing process, thereby enabling the brazing process to be performed stably.

[0276] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the flat portion of the outlet pipe is formed to be inclined toward the outside of the outlet pipe, thereby preventing / reducing a phenomenon in which one end of the flat portion is damaged during the brazing process.

[0277] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the phenomenon of soldering deviating from the inner boundary formed by the inner surface of the second header and the outer surface of the outlet pipe by the stud can be prevented / suppressed, thereby sealing the hole more effectively.

[0278] While the present disclosure has been illustrated and described with reference to various exemplary embodiments, it will be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described exemplary embodiments, but that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the true spirit and full scope of the present disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents. Furthermore, it will be understood that any of the embodiment(s) described herein may be used in conjunction with any other embodiment(s) described herein.

Claims

1. A header including a first header and a second header detachably connected to the first header, the header forming an outlet chamber for receiving a refrigerant; A heat exchange tube connected to the first header, the heat exchange tube configured to allow refrigerant to pass through the heat exchange tube and exchange heat with outside air; and An outlet pipe is inserted into a hole penetrating the second header and communicating with the outlet chamber, is joined to the second header by brazing, is communicated with the outlet chamber, and is configured to discharge refrigerant inside the outlet chamber; The above outlet pipe includes a first outlet pipe arranged in the outlet chamber and a second outlet pipe extending externally from the first outlet pipe, A heat exchanger wherein the first outlet pipe includes a catcher protruding radially from an outer surface of the first outlet pipe to prevent movement of the first outlet pipe away from the outlet chamber.

2. In paragraph 1, A heat exchanger further comprising a solder ring covering an inner boundary formed by contact between the inner surface of the second header forming the hole and the outer surface of the first outlet pipe.

3. In paragraph 2, The heat exchanger in which the above soldering is placed in the outlet chamber and in contact with the inner surface of the second header and the outer surface of the first outlet pipe.

4. In paragraph 3, A heat exchanger in which the above soldering is arranged adjacent to the inner surface of the second header rather than the above stud.

5. In paragraph 2, The above first outlet pipe, A pair of flat portions extending in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the second header, and Including a curved portion connecting the above pair of flat portions, The above-mentioned stumbling block is a heat exchanger formed on the above-mentioned curved portion.

6. In paragraph 5, The above-mentioned stumbling block is a heat exchanger formed on the curved portion at a height where the inner surface of the second header and the flat portion come into contact with one end of the first outlet pipe facing the outlet chamber.

7. In paragraph 6, The above curved portion further includes an inclined surface extending from a boundary line formed by contact between the inside surface of the above curved portion and the second header toward the stumbling block, A heat exchanger in which the above soldering is supported on the inclined surface and is not separated from the inner surface of the second header.

8. In paragraph 5, A heat exchanger in which the above pair of flat sections are each formed to be inclined in the outer direction of the first outlet pipe.

9. In paragraph 3, The above soldering is a heat exchanger including a filler metal.

10. In paragraph 2, The above outlet pipe includes a second outlet pipe extending externally from the first outlet pipe and passing through the hole, A heat exchanger in which the second outlet pipe includes a lead covering an outer boundary formed by contact between an outer surface of the second header forming the hole and an outer surface of the second outlet pipe.

11. In paragraph 10, The above lead is formed to protrude in the radial direction of the second header from the outer surface of the second header, A heat exchanger in which one side of the lead facing the second header is in contact with the outer surface of the second header so as to cover the outer boundary portion on the outer side of the second header.

12. In paragraph 10, The second header includes a partition wall in which the hole is formed, and a partition wall protruding from the inner surface of the second header toward the first header to divide the interior of the header into the outlet chamber and a chamber other than the outlet chamber. A heat exchanger in which the second outlet pipe extends to the outside from the first outlet pipe through a chamber other than the outlet chamber.

13. In paragraph 12, The above hall is, A first groove formed on one side of the bulkhead facing the outlet chamber, and A second groove formed on the other surface of the bulkhead and communicating with the first groove and having a larger radius than the first groove, A heat exchanger further comprising: a soldering member inserted into a bend formed by the first groove and the second groove; 14. In paragraph 12, A heat exchanger in which the second outlet pipe includes a lead covering a partition boundary formed by contact between the other surface of the partition forming the hole and the outer surface of the second outlet pipe.

15. In paragraph 12, The first header includes a first lead covering a first boundary formed by contact between the outer surface of the second outlet pipe disposed externally and the inner surface of the first header, The second header includes a second lead covering a second boundary formed by contact between the outer surface of the second outlet pipe disposed externally and the inner surface of the second header, A heat exchanger in which the first lead and the second lead are connected to each other based on the first header and the second header being coupled.

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