Heat exchanger system

Abstract

The invention relates to a heat exchanger system comprising a heat exchanger element (1) or multiple heat exchanger elements (1) which are fluidically connected to one another, wherein: each heat exchanger element (1) comprises fluid-conducting channels (4); a respective heat exchanger element (1) is formed by a stack of at least two overlapping film elements (2, 3); the film elements (2, 3) are formed from plastic material or plastic composite material, and all channels (4) of the heat exchanger element (1) are formed between two neighbouring film elements (2, 3), which are integrally connected in connection regions (5) and which surround the channels (4); the film elements lying on top of one another can be pulled apart from one another in the non-connected regions by the entering fluid, and the heat exchanger elements can be extended in the stacking direction of the stacked film elements.

Description

[0001] Heat exchanger system

[0002] The invention relates to a heat exchanger system comprising a heat exchanger element or several heat exchanger elements in fluid communication with one another, wherein each heat exchanger element comprises fluid-carrying channels.

[0003] Systems of this type are well-known in the art and are typically used for heating or cooling entire premises or parts thereof. Other applications include industrial processes for temperature control of fluids. Usually, a medium to be cooled, located outside a heat exchanger element of the system, is tempered by heat exchange with a medium, often water, circulating within the heat exchanger element. However, other media, such as glycol, can also be used in the heat exchanger element.

[0004] In the channels of a heat exchanger element or a system formed therefrom according to the invention, at least in the channels participating in the heat exchange, fluid is at least conveyed and guided during intended operation. For example, ordinary tubular radiators / convectors in a building form heat exchanger elements of such a system and, together with the supply and return pipes, constitute a complete system. Partial surface areas of underfloor, wall, or ceiling heating also form a heat exchanger element of such a system. Such systems regularly share the common feature of being constructed from a multitude of individual pipes or pipe sections, often made of metal or plastic pipes.

[0005] Such well-known systems suffer from the problem that the amount of medium within the system is very large. Furthermore, a considerable mass often surrounds the walls of the fluid-carrying channels. This makes such systems frequently very sluggish, which hinders their ability to respond quickly to changes in requirements. Additionally, individual heat exchanger elements in such systems, with their current designs, are often very heavy and therefore difficult to handle during initial installation.

[0006] It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a heat exchanger system of the type mentioned above which overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages, in particular which is easy to install and has reduced inertia compared to the prior art, especially through comparatively small filling quantities in each heat exchanger element and through low mass with which the liquid medium is surrounded.

[0007] According to the invention, this problem is solved by forming a heat exchanger element by means of a stack of at least two overlapping foil elements and by forming all channels of the heat exchanger element between two adjacent foil elements which are materially bonded in connection areas which define the channels.

[0008] In the simplest case, such a stack can therefore have exactly two foil elements, but it can also include more than two foil elements, in particular three or more foil elements, which opens up the possibility of forming channels in different levels of the stack.

[0009] In the invention, the course of each channel is defined by the course of two connection areas that have the channel between them. Connection areas can be formed, for example, by joining two stacked foil elements in the stacking direction, preferably by a material bond, e.g., by gluing or welding. All channels of a heat exchanger element according to the invention are preferably formed entirely by the material of the foil elements. In particular, these are bounded in the stacking direction by the respective upper and lower foils and perpendicular to them by connection areas formed between the foil elements.

[0010] The invention thus offers the advantage that heat exchanger elements are pre-assembled by a stack of at least two foil elements and that the heat exchanger system can be formed in a simple way by fluid-technical connection of such heat exchanger elements.

[0011] The foil elements are preferably made of a plastic or plastic composite material, and are particularly flexible. This makes the heat exchanger elements themselves very lightweight. In particular, this allows them to be easily processed in their unfilled state.

[0012] In particular, the heat exchanger elements of the system, when unfilled, are essentially only as thick as the stack of connected foil elements. The thickness of a heat exchanger element is preferably less than 5 millimeters, more preferably less than 2 millimeters, and even more preferably less than 1 millimeter. Only when filled do the respective heat exchanger elements increase in size in the stacking direction of the stacked foil elements, because the penetrating liquid forces the overlapping foil elements apart in the unconnected areas, in particular where at least one of the foil elements has a bulge in a forced-apart area.

[0013] Preferably, such a bulge in a foil element is formed in the filled state by a curved foil area stretched between the connection areas, which is unstretched in the unfilled state, in particular which, depending on the embodiment, lies wavy or smooth between two adjacent connection areas in the unfilled state.

[0014] In an embodiment in which a channel with two opposing bulges is formed, it is preferably provided that, in the unfilled state, the film area of ​​each film element forming the subsequent bulge between the connection areas of the adjacent film elements is unstretched, in particular lying flat. During filling, due to the flexibility of the film elements, the formation of the bulges and the resulting stretching of the film areas allow the connection areas to move towards each other. Filling thus causes such a heat exchanger element to thicken in the stacking direction while simultaneously shortening it in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction, and in particular also perpendicular to the direction of the connection areas or in the direction of the spacing of the connection areas.

[0015] In an embodiment in which one of the foil elements is fixed, e.g. by attachment to an element that is rigid compared to the foil element, such as a building material panel, it is not possible to shorten the distance between two connection areas that define a channel.

[0016] In the spacing direction between two connection areas defining a channel, in such a design, the foil element that is not fixed preferably has a foil area that is longer in this spacing direction than the distance between the connection areas, in particular whereby, in the unfilled state, a waviness can result in this unfixed foil element between two connection areas, which is eliminated in the filled state by stretching of the foil area and formation of a bulge only in the unfixed foil element.

[0017] In contrast, state-of-the-art heat exchanger elements have the same dimensions in both the filled and unfilled states.

[0018] Preferably, the heat exchanger elements of the system are foldable and / or coilable when empty. This makes the heat exchanger elements of the invention very lightweight and space-saving to store and easy to transport. Logistical effort is also reduced, for example, because the heat exchanger elements can be sent via simple mail, whereas conventional heat exchanger elements of existing systems require freight forwarding.

[0019] Preferably, the foil elements surrounding a channel have the same thickness across their entire surface, in particular a thickness that corresponds to the thickness of the respective foil element in the stacking direction. Specifically, each foil element has the same thickness in the area where it connects to an adjacent foil element and also in the area where it is compressed.

[0020] A wall surrounding the channel, extending between two adjacent connection areas surrounding the channel, and in particular extending in a curved shape when filled, is thus formed by a foil area that is spatially displaced by the filling, in particular displaced from a plane in which the connections surrounding a channel are arranged.

[0021] Each film element is preferably a film element without cutouts or material removal, in particular one whose surface is unprocessed, and especially one that has a uniform thickness (considered in the stacking direction) across its entire surface. A film element is further preferably a planar element, preferably a flexible element, with an extent in two directions, each of which is many times greater than the thickness (especially when considered in the stacking direction).

[0022] In one embodiment, the invention can also provide that a plurality of heat exchanger elements are connected to one another in a strip of a film stack. This allows a heat exchanger element to be detached from the strip as needed, further configured if necessary, and put into use. It is particularly advantageous if several heat exchanger elements within a strip are also fluidically connected to one another. In this way, a system or even a subsystem of a system can be formed directly by a certain number of such strip-connected heat exchanger elements, without the need for separate connections between the individual heat exchanger elements.

[0023] However, the invention may preferably also provide that each heat exchanger element forms a separate unit, which may be connected to other heat exchanger elements to form a system.

[0024] It can be provided, for example, that the liquid volume of a filled heat exchanger element of the system is less than 1 liter, preferably less than 500 milliliters, and more preferably less than 350 milliliters, particularly per square meter of heat exchanger element surface. Preferably, the individual heat exchanger elements of the system have a surface area of ​​less than 1 square meter. By connecting several heat exchanger elements of this type in series, large system surfaces can be created with a small amount of liquid. A heat exchanger system according to the invention is therefore significantly less sluggish than previous systems with considerably larger quantities of liquid.The invention provides that in at least one heat exchanger element, preferably in all heat exchanger elements, a respective channel is formed by opposing surface areas of two opposing foil elements between two adjacent connection areas of the foil elements.

[0025] In one possible preferred embodiment, for example, it is provided that each channel, particularly during fluid filling, is bounded by opposing curvatures of the film areas, which are formed with at least essentially the same curvature height in each of the two film elements, in particular whereby the heat exchanger element is formed at least essentially mirror-symmetrical around a central plane when the stack consists of only two film elements.

[0026] In another possible preferred embodiment, it is provided that at least one channel, preferably each respective channel, particularly in the case of fluid filling, is bounded by opposing curvatures of the film areas, wherein the curvature height in the film elements is different.

[0027] Yet another possible, preferred embodiment provides that at least one channel, preferably each individual channel, is bordered by a flat and a curved film section, particularly during fluid filling. The latter can be ensured in particular if the flat film section is stabilized against bulging that occurs during filling.

[0028] The three aforementioned versions can each be provided as alternatives, but also in any combination with each other.

[0029] In a structurally preferred embodiment, it is provided that in each heat exchanger element the liquid-carrying channels comprise at least one supply channel and at least one return channel, between which liquid-carrying exchange channels extend.

[0030] Preferably, the exchange channels form an exchange field in which the exchange channels are preferably parallel and linearly extended and further preferably arranged equidistantly. However, it is also possible for the exchange channels to have an arbitrary extent, in particular a curved extent.

[0031] Preferably, the flow channel and the return channel are arranged parallel to each other at a distance, preferably each in a (different) edge region of the heat exchanger element.

[0032] It can also be provided that the supply channel and the return channel are arranged linearly one behind the other, preferably in the same edge region of the heat exchanger element. The exchange channels can thus preferably extend with a first exchange channel section between the supply channel and a manifold channel, and with a second exchange channel section between the manifold channel and the return channel. Preferably, the manifold channel and the serial arrangement of supply and return channels are arranged parallel to each other. Furthermore, preferably, the manifold channel is arranged in an edge region of the heat exchanger element that is opposite the edge region in which the serial arrangement of supply and return channels is located. The manifold channel and the serial arrangement of supply and return channels are thus located in different edge regions.

[0033] A preferred embodiment may provide that in at least a subset of all heat exchanger elements, preferably in each respective heat exchanger element, a supply line and a return line are formed, in particular which are arranged parallel to each other in opposing edge regions, which run perpendicular to the edge region in which the supply and / or return channel is arranged, wherein the supply channel is connected to the supply line and the return channel is connected to the return line.

[0034] Preferably, such supply and return lines are provided to connect several heat exchanger elements in series by coupling the respective supply and return lines, ensuring that their exchange channels, or the exchange fields formed by the exchange channels, are traversed by fluid in parallel from the supply side to the return side. This preferably allows the total exchange surface of the system to be increased in a simple manner, and avoids the need for external connections to the individual heat exchanger elements. A system consisting of several heat exchanger elements can thus be easily connected to a supply and return line of a heating or cooling system. All further fluid distribution is then preferably carried out exclusively through channels formed within the heat exchanger elements.

[0035] In all possible embodiments of the invention, it is preferably provided that the exchange channels have a smaller internal cross-section than the supply and / or return channels. Preferably, the exchange channels have a cross-section of less than 10 mm, more preferably less than 6 mm. Preferably, the supply and / or return channels, and in particular also the supply lines and / or return lines, have a cross-section of less than 25 mm, more preferably less than 20 mm.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the invention provides that at least one exchange channel, preferably each exchange channel of a heat exchanger element, opens into the supply and / or return channel with a direction of extension deviating from its predominant extension and / or with a curvature, preferably at least substantially tangentially, and / or that a guide element is arranged in an area surrounding the connection of an exchange channel with a supply and / or return channel.

[0037] Such a guiding element can preferably be formed by one of the walls of the exchange channel, which is extended into the supply or return channel.

[0038] These described possibilities of the invention enable a reduction of the flow resistance during the change of flow direction in the transition area between an exchange channel and an adjacent supply and / or return channel.

[0039] A further preferred development provides that each heat exchanger element, at least a subset of all heat exchanger elements, in particular each respective heat exchanger element, has a first connecting element which opens into a supply side of the channels, in particular which opens into a supply line and / or a supply channel to which exchange channels are connected, and has a second connecting element which opens into a return side of the channels, in particular which opens into a return line and / or return channel to which exchange channels are connected.

[0040] This demonstrates that adjacent heat exchanger elements of a system can be connected on the supply and return sides by means of these connectors, in particular that the fluid is conveyed on the supply and return sides through a respective heat exchanger element to the next connected heat exchanger element via supply and return lines, and especially that the supply and return channels internal to each heat exchanger element are connected to the respective lines within the heat exchanger element. The invention can also include further connector elements that open into channels, e.g., for the selective introduction or discharge of fluid.

[0041] A preferred embodiment provides that each heat exchanger element has at least one valve element, preferably in a supply and / or return line, and in particular that each heat exchanger element has at least one valve element.

[0042] Preferably, a valve element provides the possibility to close, open, or regulate the flow rate of a supply and / or return line of one of the heat exchanger elements of a system, in particular so that all downstream heat exchanger elements in the system can be isolated from the system by closing the valve or integrated into the system by opening it, or their power output can be regulated by controlling the mass flow. Individual system sections can thus be controlled.

[0043] In the aforementioned embodiments, it is preferably provided that all connecting elements and / or the at least one valve element are sealed between two overlapping film elements of the stack. Such a seal can be achieved, for example, by a material-bonded connection of a wall area of ​​such an element to the film elements, e.g., by gluing or welding.

[0044] A preferred embodiment of the invention provides that at least one heat exchanger element has at least one opening, preferably several openings, penetrating all the foil elements of the stack, wherein, in the circumferential direction around each opening, all foil elements are bonded together in a connecting edge. The connecting edge ensures that no liquid guided in channels can escape at the opening. One opening can be provided, for example, to allow any element, such as cables or structural components, to pass through a heat exchanger element. Multiple openings can be provided, for example, to allow a heat exchanger element to be attached to a structural component, for example, by mortar / adhesive that penetrates the heat exchanger element at the locations of the openings. This also prevents a heat exchanger element from acting as a separating layer within a structure.

[0045] A further development preferably provides that a connecting ring with partial interruptions is formed around a connecting edge of at least one opening at a distance from the connecting edge in two adjacent film elements, in which the adjacent film elements are partially connected. Between the connecting edge and the connecting ring, an annular channel is formed, open radially outwards at the interruptions. Channels formed at the locations of the interruptions between the film elements open into and out of the annular channel. In this way, a fluid can be guided around the opening in the channels by means of the annular channel.

[0046] A preferred embodiment, which can be combined with all possible configurations, provides that in at least one heat exchanger element, preferably in all heat exchanger elements, a foil element located on the outside of the foil stack carries a functional layer. Such a functional layer can be formed, for example, by an adhesive layer, in particular a peelable adhesive layer. By means of such an adhesive layer, the heat exchanger element can be easily and securely attached to another component.

[0047] Such a functional layer can, for example, also be formed by a building material panel, in particular a gypsum plasterboard panel, or a metal plate, especially one that is bonded to the heat exchanger element. It can be provided that the building material panel bears markings on the side facing away from the heat exchanger element, indicating to the installer where screws may be inserted through the panel for fastening purposes. Such marked locations preferably correspond to the locations of the aforementioned openings in the heat exchanger element.

[0048] A preferred embodiment provides that at least one heat exchanger element, preferably all heat exchanger elements, comprises liquid-carrying and at least one gas-carrying channel, preferably gas-carrying channels, wherein the liquid-carrying channels and the at least one gas-carrying channel are formed between the same two adjacent film elements in the film stack, and / or the liquid-carrying channels are formed between two film elements of a first pair of film elements and the at least one gas-carrying channel is formed between two film elements of a second pair of film elements, in particular the at least one gas-carrying channel is formed between a further film and the liquid-carrying film pair.

[0049] The channels that transport the different media can therefore be formed in the same plane of the film stack, but also in different planes of the film stack.

[0050] This design makes it possible to perform air conditioning in addition to temperature control using a liquid, or to introduce a process gas in an industrial application.

[0051] A preferred further development provides that the at least one gas-carrying channel(s), in particular a gas-carrying supply channel from which gas-carrying channels branch off, has a connector which is sealed between two foil elements which delimit the at least one gas-carrying channel(s) and the at least one gas-carrying channel(s) have at least one vent opening in one of the foil elements along its course and / or at the end region.

[0052] For example, air can be centrally blown into the respective heat exchanger element on the supply side, whereby the air can be distributed through the gas-carrying channels in the heat exchanger element and can be blown out to the environment through at least one exhaust opening. Thus, a heat exchanger system according to the invention can be used not only for temperature control of rooms, but also for room ventilation.

[0053] In other applications, the outgoing air can also be used to create turbulence in a liquid within a storage tank into which the heat exchanger elements are suspended.

[0054] A further development, which can be combined with all possible embodiments, provides that at least one heat exchanger element, preferably all heat exchanger elements, comprise at least one auxiliary channel, in particular one that has no connection to a liquid-carrying and / or gas-carrying channel. Such an auxiliary channel can, for example, comprise a ballast mass, e.g., to ensure that a heat exchanger element suspended in a liquid to be tempered maintains a predetermined position.

[0055] An auxiliary channel can, for example, also include a signal line and / or power supply line, e.g., for controlling controllable components integrated into a heat exchanger element, such as a previously mentioned valve element. Preferably, an auxiliary channel is arranged in an edge region of a heat exchanger element. Of several channels arranged in an edge region, the auxiliary channel preferably forms the outermost channel.

[0056] In all possible embodiments of the invention, at least one of the following properties is realized in a single foil element; in particular, the invention has several of the following properties simultaneously in any combination in a single foil element: a. The thickness of a single foil element is less than 500 micrometers, preferably less than 250 micrometers, more preferably less than 150 micrometers, and more preferably less than 100 micrometers. A foil element is thus a planar element with an extent in two directions, each of which is many times greater than the thickness, in particular at least by a factor of 100, preferably at least by a factor of 1000, more preferably at least by a factor of 5000, and more preferably at least by a factor of 10000. b.a. The material of a foil element is oxygen-impermeable or has an oxygen-impermeable barrier layer, in particular made of ethylene-vinyl alcohol or of metal (e.g., aluminum), within a non-oxygen-impermeable material; c. The material of a foil element comprises or consists of a plastic, in particular polyethylene terephthalate (PET), in particular it is formed by a composite of several foil layers, in particular of PET and HDPE; d. The material of a foil element is a mixture of plastic and particles whose thermal conductivity is greater than that of the plastic.

[0057] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained with reference to the figures.

[0058] Figure 1 shows an example of a single heat exchanger element 1 of a heat exchanger system according to the invention. It comprises two foil elements 2, 3 which are arranged stacked one above the other in the direction of the thickness of the foil elements 2, 3 or a stacking direction, in particular with their respective large surfaces lying parallel to each other.

[0059] Figure 2A shows a first possible cross-section of the heat exchanger element 1 of Figure 1 in the section plane AA in a state in which the heat exchanger element 1 is filled with a liquid, e.g., water. In this embodiment of Figure 2, each of the channels 4 is formed by opposing surface areas of two opposing foil elements 2, 3 between two adjacent connection areas 5 of the foil elements 2, 3. Figure 2 and also Figure 4 for section BB show that each channel 4, in the filled state, is bounded by opposing bulges of the foil areas, which are formed with at least substantially the same bulge height in each of the two foil elements 2, 3. In particular, this results in the heat exchanger element being formed at least substantially mirror-symmetrical about a central plane E when the stack consists of only two foil elements 2, 3.The curvature heights can also vary (not shown).

[0060] Figure 2B, in contrast, shows a section of the foil elements 2, 3 with two adjacent channels 4, in which the foil elements 2, 3 are shown comparatively in their filled and unfilled states. In the unfilled state shown above, the foil elements 2, 3 lie unstretched, but essentially flat, in the area of ​​a channel 4 to be formed between two connecting areas 5 that define the channel. The distance between foil element 2 and foil element 3 is exaggerated for clarity only.

[0061] In the filled state shown below, the previously unstretched and preferably smoothly overlapping surface areas between the connection areas 5 are curved and stretched. As a result, the distance A2 between the connection areas 5 in the filled state is smaller than the distance A1 in the unfilled state.

[0062] A heat exchanger element with channels 4 formed between opposing curved surface areas thus becomes thicker in the stacking direction and shorter perpendicular to it, at least in the area of ​​each channel, particularly in the plane in which the connecting areas lie.

[0063] Figure 3A shows a second possible cross-section of the heat exchanger element 1 of Figure 1 in the section plane AA in a state in which the heat exchanger element 1 is filled with a liquid, e.g., water. In this embodiment of Figure 3, each of the channels 4 is formed by opposing surface areas of two opposing foil elements 2, 3 between two adjacent connection areas 5 of the foil elements 2, 3, wherein at least one channel, here preferably at least the exchange channels 4c, or preferably each respective channel, is bounded by a flat and a curved foil area, the flat area being arranged at the bottom.

[0064] The flat structure can be stabilized, for example, by laminating / gluing the flat foil area, or the entire foil element 3 encompassing it, onto a flat surface or a flat building element 6, e.g., a building material panel, which is shown hatched in Figure 3A and is optional. Such an element 6 can be described as rigid or stiffer / more stable compared to the foil element 3 and thus fixes it in place.

[0065] The flat design can also be achieved by forming the flat foil area in a foil element 3, which is thicker and therefore more stable than the other foil element 2.

[0066] Here, the design can provide that the length of the film area between the connection areas 5 in the unfixed / unstabilized film element 2, in which the curvature is formed, is greater than the distance between the connection areas 5. As a result, the film area lies unstretched and, in particular, corrugated between the connection areas 5 when unfilled.

[0067] Figure 3B, a section of Figure 3A, shows on the left a state without filling and on the right a state with filling. On the left, the foil area of ​​foil element 2, which partially surrounds the channel 4 between the connection areas 5, is shown unstretched and wavy, specifically without curvature. The distance between foil element 2 and foil element 3 is exaggerated for clarity.

[0068] The profile after filling, with a stretched, curved film area between the connection areas 5, is shown on the right in Figure 3B. In both states, the distance between the connection areas 5 is the same, particularly since it is fixed by the element 6.

[0069] The channel configurations in Figures 2 and 3 can be provided alternatively to each other, but also in combination.

[0070] All channels 4 formed in the heat exchanger element 1 are bounded in the stacking direction / thickness direction of the foil elements 2, 3 by the upper foil element 2 and the lower foil element 3, and laterally, i.e., in directions parallel to the plane of the foil elements 2, 3, by connections 5 between the foil elements 2, 3, which are preferably material-bonded, e.g., by bonding or welding the foil elements 2, 3. Welding can be carried out in all possible ways, e.g., thermally by irradiation, e.g., with laser radiation, or by pressing on a heated punch or applying energy, e.g.,

[0071] Ultrasonic energy transferring stamp onto the area to be bonded. The foil elements 2, 3 are preferably made of a plastic, in particular one that is itself oxygen-impermeable or has been treated to become oxygen-impermeable, e.g. by an integrated barrier layer or other composite structure.

[0072] Figures 1 to 4 show that the heat exchanger element 1 comprises several types of channels 4. These are a supply channel 4a, a return channel 4b, and exchange channels 4c, which extend between the supply channel 4a and the return channel 4b and form an exchange field. The supply channel 4a extends along an upper edge of the heat exchanger element 1, and the return channel 4b extends along the opposite lower edge of the heat exchanger element 1; thus, these two channels 4a and 4b are parallel to each other. In this example, the exchange channels 4c are oriented perpendicular to the channels 4a and 4b and extend linearly, but according to the invention, they can have any shape, in particular a curved shape. Preferably, in any possible embodiment, the invention provides that a heat exchanger element 1 has at least the aforementioned channels 4a, 4b, and 4c, and optionally also other types of channels.

[0073] Each heat exchanger element 1 is provided with connectors 7 to connect a heat exchanger element 1 to external piping or to connect them to each other. One connector 7 opens into the supply channel 4a on the supply side and another connector 7 opens into the return channel 4b on the return side. Such a connector 7 can have different orientations, e.g., also according to the alternative orientation shown with dashed lines.

[0074] In Figure 1, a channel 8, shown as an optional feature, is formed between the foil elements 2 and 3 at the lower edge of the heat exchanger element 1 and is filled with a ballast. Such a channel 8 is advantageous if, for example, a heat exchanger element 1 is to be suspended in a liquid to be tempered. This channel 8 has no connection to a liquid-filled channel 4 but is completely enclosed between the foil elements 2 and 3.

[0075] Figure 5 shows a further development of the embodiment of Figure 1, in which preferably all other features described for Figures 1 to 4 are also present.

[0076] The further development consists of the exchange channels 4c opening into the supply channel 4a and the return channel 4b at their two end regions via a respective guide element 9. The respective guide element 9 acts to deflect the flow and thus reduces the flow resistance during the transfer of the liquid between the channels. Such a guide element 9 can be designed by extending one of the two wall regions surrounding the exchange channel 4c, which are formed by a connecting region 5 of the foil elements 2, 3, with a curvature, in particular a curvature greater than 90 degrees, into the supply channel 4a or the return channel 4b.

[0077] Figure 6 shows an embodiment with an alternative arrangement of the supply channel 4a, return channel 4b, and exchange channels 4c. Here, the supply channel 4a and the return channel 4b are arranged collinearly one behind the other at the same edge region and are not directly connected fluidically, but again only via the exchange channels 4c. The exchange channels 4c extend with a first exchange channel section 4c1 between the supply channel 4a and a collecting channel 4d, and with a second exchange channel section 4c2 between the collecting channel 4d and the return channel 4b. The collecting channel 4d and the sequential arrangement of the supply channel 4a and return channel 4b are arranged parallel to each other, with the collecting channel 4d being located in an edge region of the heat exchanger element 1 that is opposite the edge region in which the sequential arrangement of the supply channel 4a and return channel 4b is located.Furthermore, the embodiment of Figure 6 may preferably also exhibit some or all of the features of Figures 1 to 5.

[0078] Figure 7 shows further developed features of the embodiment according to Figure 5, which can also be combined with all other embodiments shown in the remaining figures. Here, the heat exchanger element 1 has an opening 10 that passes through all foil elements 2, 3. The opening 10 is surrounded by an annular connecting edge 11 in which all foil elements 2, 3 of the heat exchanger element 1 are connected, so that none of the channels 4 have a connection to the outside. The connecting edge 11 is surrounded at a distance on the outside by a connecting ring 12 having interruptions, wherein an annular channel 13, open radially outwards at the interruptions, is formed between the connecting edge 11 and the connecting ring 12, with exchange channels 4c formed at the locations of the interruptions between the foil elements 2, 3 opening into and out of the annular channel 13, so that the opening 10 can be circumscribed by flow.Any other element can be passed through such an opening 10 through a heat exchanger element.

[0079] Figures 8, 9, and 10 show, in different views, an alternative embodiment of a heat exchanger element 1, in which, in addition to the features described for Figures 1, 2, and 4, further channel types are provided. The guide elements 9, openings 10, or auxiliary channels 8, and other optional features described for the other figures, can preferably also be provided here. Here, the channels preferably have, as shown in Figure 9, curved surface areas of the foil elements on both sides.

[0080] This heat exchanger element 1 has a supply line 4e and a return line 4f, through which supply-side fluid and return-side fluid can be passed through the heat exchanger element 1 to an adjacent heat exchanger element 1 upstream and / or downstream, which is connected to the lines 4e, 4f via the connectors 7, as shown in Figure 11 as a system formed in this way with, for example, three heat exchanger elements connected in series via the lines 4e and 4f.

[0081] 1.

[0082] Due to this series connection of the heat exchanger elements 1, their exchange channels 4, or rather the exchange fields formed by these exchange channels, are connected in parallel, because the respective supply channels 4a are connected to the respective supply line 4e and the respective return channels 4b are connected to the respective return line 4f. In this way, larger exchange surfaces can be achieved very easily without the need for external piping of the heat exchanger elements 1.

[0083] Figures 12 and 13 show, from different perspectives, a further development of the embodiment according to Figures 8 to 10, which can also be interconnected as shown in Figure 11. Alternatively, the channels shown here are from Figure 13 with a flat and a curved surface area of ​​the foil elements.

[0084] 2, 3 are designed as shown in Figure 3. However, a design like that in Figure 9 is also possible.

[0085] The further development consists of providing additional auxiliary channels 8 parallel to the strands 4e and 4f, in which cables 14 are routed. This allows electrical signals or energy to be transmitted through the heat exchanger elements 1. Preferably, the auxiliary channels 8 are located furthest outwards in the edge region of the heat exchanger elements 1. Cable-carrying auxiliary channels can also be provided in all other configurations.

[0086] Figures 14 to 16 show, in various views, an embodiment in which, in addition to liquid-carrying channels 4, gas-carrying channels 14 (e.g., air-carrying channels 14) are also provided in a heat exchanger element 1. Here, the liquid-carrying channels 4 are formed between two foil elements 2, 3 of a first pair of foil elements, and the gas-carrying channels 14 are formed between two foil elements 2, 17 of a second pair of foil elements. A connector 15 for supplying gas / air into an air supply channel 18 is provided between the foil elements 2, 17. This air supply channel 18 is formed between the same foil elements 2, 17, and the gas-carrying channels 14 branch off from it. All gas-carrying channels terminate in a discharge opening 16 through which the gas / air can be discharged into the vicinity of the heat exchanger element 1. The discharge opening extends through the foil elements 2, 3.

[0087] Any dimensions shown in the figures are to be understood as examples and do not limit the embodiment shown to the dimensions given.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Heat exchanger system comprising one heat exchanger element (1) or several heat exchanger elements (1) connected to one another in fluid communication, wherein each heat exchanger element (1) comprises fluid-carrying channels (4), characterized in that each heat exchanger element (1) is formed by a stack of at least two overlapping foil elements (2, 3), wherein the foil elements (2, 3) are made of plastic material or plastic composite material, and all channels (4) of the heat exchanger element (1) are formed between two adjacent foil elements (2, 3) which are materially bonded in connection areas (5) which define the channels (4) define, wherein the overlapping foil elements can be forced apart in the unconnected areas by penetrating liquid and the heat exchanger elements can be enlarged in the stacking direction of the stacked foil elements.

2. System according to claim 1, characterized in that in at least one heat exchanger element (1), preferably in all heat exchanger elements (1), a respective channel (4) is formed by opposing surface areas of two opposing foil elements (2, 3) between two adjacent connection areas. (5) of the foil elements (2, 3) is formed, wherein a. at least one channel (4), preferably each respective channel (4), is bounded by opposing bulges of the foil areas, which are formed with at least substantially the same bulge height in each of the two foil elements (2, 3), in particular whereby the heat exchanger element (1) is formed at least substantially mirror-symmetrical around a central plane (E) when the stack is formed from only two foil elements (2, 3), and / or b. at least one channel (4), preferably each respective channel (4), is bounded by opposing curvatures of the foil areas, wherein the curvature height in the foil elements (2, 3) is different, and / or c. at least one channel (4), preferably each respective channel (4), is bounded by a flat and a curved foil area.

3. System according to claim 2, characterized in that a bulge in a foil element (2, 3) is formed in the filled state by a curved foil area stretched between the connection areas (5), which is unstretched in the unfilled state, in particular which is wavy or smooth in the unfilled state between two adjacent connection areas (5).

4. System according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that a. in a heat exchanger element in which a channel (4) with two opposing bulges is formed, in the unfilled state the film area forming the subsequent bulge of a respective film element (2, 3) between the connection areas (5) of the adjacent film elements (2, 3) is unstretched, in particular lying flat, and when filled, the connection areas (5) can be moved towards each other by forming the bulges and thereby stretching the film areas, in particular wherein filling causes a thickening of the heat exchanger element (1) in the stacking direction with simultaneous shortening in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction, and / or b.in a heat exchanger element in which a channel (4) is bounded by a flat and a curved foil area, in particular wherein the foil element (3) is fixed with the flat foil area, preferably by attachment to an element (6) that is rigid compared to the foil element, in the unfilled state the foil area of ​​the foil element (2) that forms the subsequent curvature. between the connection areas (5) of the adjacent foil elements (2, 3) is unstretched and in the spacing direction between two connection areas (5) enclosing the channel (4) is longer than the distance between the connection areas (5), in particular wherein in the unfilled state the foil area is wavy and lies between the two connection areas (5), and the curvature can be formed by filling while maintaining the distance between the connection areas (5).

5. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in a respective heat exchanger element (1) the liquid-carrying channels (4) comprise at least one supply channel (4a) and at least one return channel (4b), between which liquid-carrying exchange channels (4c) extend, in particular wherein a. the supply channel (4a) and the return channel (4b) are arranged parallel to each other at a distance, preferably each arranged in an edge region of the heat exchanger element (1), or b.the supply channel (4a) and the return channel (4b) are arranged linearly one behind the other, preferably in the same edge region of the heat exchanger element (1), in particular wherein the exchange channels extend with a first exchange channel section (4c1) between the supply channel (4a) and a collecting channel (4d) and with a second exchange channel section (4c2) between the collecting channel (4d) and the return channel (4b), preferably wherein the collecting channel (4d) and the series arrangement of supply and return channels are arranged parallel to each other, further preferably wherein the collecting channel (4d) is arranged in an edge region of the heat exchanger element (1) which is opposite the edge region in which the series arrangement of supply channel (4a) and return channel (4b) is located. preferably wherein in at least a subnumber of all heat exchanger elements (1), preferably in each respective heat exchanger element (1) a supply line (4e) and a return line (4f) are formed, in particular which are arranged parallel to each other in opposing edge regions, which run perpendicular to the edge region in which the supply and / or return channel (4a, 4b) is arranged, wherein the supply channel (4a) is connected to the supply line (4e) and the return channel (4b) is connected to the return line (4f).

6. System according to claim 5, characterized in that the exchange channels (4c) have a smaller internal cross-section than the supply and / or return channels (4a, 4b) and / or supply and / or return lines (4e, 4f), preferably wherein the exchange channels (4c) have a cross-section of less than 10 mm, preferably less than e mm, further preferably wherein the supply and / or return channels (4a, 4b) and / or supply and / or return lines (4e, 4f) have a cross-section of less than 25 mm, preferably less than 20 mm.

7. System according to one of the preceding claims 5 or 6, characterized in that at least one exchange channel (4c), preferably each exchange channel (4c) of a heat exchanger element (1), opens into the supply and / or return channel (4a, 4b) with a direction of extension deviating from its predominant extension, and / or with a curvature, preferably at least substantially tangential, and / or that a guide element (9) is arranged in an area surrounding the connection of an exchange channel (4c) with a supply and / or return channel (4a, 4b).

8. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each heat exchanger element (1) has at least a subset of all heat exchanger elements (1), in particular each respective heat exchanger element (1) a. a first connecting element (7) which opens into a supply side of the channels (4), in particular which opens into a supply line (4e) and / or a supply channel (4a) to which exchange channels (4c) are connected, and b. has a second connector element (7) which opens into a return side of the channels (4), in particular which opens into a return line (4f) and / or return channel (4b) to which exchange channels (4c) are connected, c. in particular has further connector elements which open into channels, d. in particular has at least one valve element, preferably in a supply and / or return line (4e, 4f), wherein all connector elements (7) and / or the at least one valve element are sealed between two overlapping foil elements (2, 3) of the stack.

9. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one heat exchanger element (1 ) has at least one opening (10) penetrating all film elements (2, 3) of the stack, preferably several openings (10), wherein in the circumferential direction around a respective opening (10) all film elements (2, 3 ) are connected to each other in a connecting edge (11 ) in a materially bonded manner.

10. System according to claim 9, characterized in that a connecting ring (12) having partial interruptions is formed around a connecting edge (11) of at least one opening (10) at a distance from the connecting edge (11) in two adjacent film elements (2, 3), in which the adjacent film elements (2, 3) are partially connected, wherein an annular channel (13) open radially outwards at the interruptions is formed between the connecting edge (11) and the connecting ring (12), wherein channels (4c) formed at the locations of the interruptions between the film elements (2, 3) open into and out of the annular channel (13).

11. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in at least one heat exchanger element (1), preferably in all heat exchanger elements (1), a foil element (2, 3) located on the outside of the foil stack carries a functional layer, in particular wherein the functional layer is formed by: a. an adhesive layer, in particular a peelable foil-coated adhesive layer, preferably by means of which the heat exchanger element can be attached to another component, and / or b. a building material panel (6), in particular a gypsum plasterboard panel.

12. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one heat exchanger element (1), preferably all heat exchanger elements, comprises liquid-carrying and at least one gas-carrying channel (14, 18), preferably gas-carrying channels (14, 18), wherein a. the liquid-carrying channels (4) and the at least one gas-carrying channel (14) are formed between the same two adjacent film elements (2, 3) in the film stack, and / or b. the liquid-carrying channels (4) are formed between two film elements (2, 3) of a first pair of film elements and the at least one gas-carrying channel (14, 18) is formed between two film elements (2, 17) of a second pair of film elements.

13. System according to claim 12, characterized in that the at least one gas-carrying channel(s) (14, 18) has / has a connector (15) on the upstream side, in particular a gas-carrying upstream channel (18) from which gas-carrying channels (14) branch off, which is sealed between two foil elements (2, 17) that delimit the at least one gas-carrying channel(s) (14, 18) and the at least one gas-carrying channel(s) (14, 18) along its / their course and / or at the end region have at least one blow-out opening (16) in one of the foil elements (2, 3).

14. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one heat exchanger element (1), preferably all heat exchanger elements (1), comprise at least one auxiliary channel (8), in particular one which has no connection to a liquid-carrying and / or gas-carrying channel (4, 14, 18), wherein an auxiliary channel (8) a. comprises a ballast mass and / or b. comprises at least one signal line (14) and / or power supply line (14), and / or preferably wherein an auxiliary channel (8) is arranged in an edge region of a heat exchanger element (1), in particular of several channels (4, 8) arranged in the edge region, it forms the outermost one.

15. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the film elements (2, 3) of the heat exchanger elements (1) have one or more of the following properties: a. the thickness is less than 500 micrometers, preferably less than 250 micrometers, more preferably less than 150 micrometers, more preferably less than 100 micrometers; b. the material is oxygen-impermeable or has an oxygen-impermeable barrier layer, in particular of ethylene vinyl alcohol or of metal, within a non-oxygen-impermeable material; c. the material comprises a plastic, in particular polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or consists thereof, in particular it is formed by a composite of several film layers, in particular of PET and PE-HD; d. the material is a mixture of plastic and particles whose thermal conductivity is greater than that of the plastic.

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