Four-way valve structure, refrigerant circulation loop and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system

Abstract

The present application discloses a four-way valve structure, a refrigerant circulation loop and a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. The four-way valve structure comprises a valve body, four connector pipes, matching pipes, and adapter pipes; the valve body is provided with four valve ports; the four connector pipes are arranged in one-to-one correspondence with the four valve ports; the connector pipes are made of stainless steel; each connector pipe comprises a first connector end portion and a second connector end portion, and the first connector end portion is configured to be connected to the valve body; each matching pipe has a first matching end portion; each adapter pipe has a first adapter end portion and a second adapter end portion; the first adapter end portion is inserted into the second adapter end portion, and the second adapter end portion is inserted into the first matching end portion, so as to communicate the corresponding connector pipe with the corresponding matching pipe; and the material of the adapter pipes is one of copper, a copper alloy, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

Description

A four-way valve structure, refrigerant circulation loop and HVAC system

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 2024118136654, filed on December 10, 2024, entitled "A Four-Way Valve Structure, Refrigerant Circulation Loop and Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning System"; and priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 2024230461805, filed on December 10, 2024, entitled "A Four-Way Valve Structure, Refrigerant Circulation Loop and Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning System". Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of air conditioning component technology, and in particular to a four-way valve structure, a refrigerant circulation loop, and a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. Background Technology

[0003] A refrigerant circulation loop typically includes refrigeration components and a piping system. These components are connected by the piping system to form a loop for the flow and circulation of heat exchange media such as refrigerant. A four-way valve is a valve in the refrigerant circulation loop used to change the flow direction of the heat exchange media.

[0004] The applicant discovered that in the relevant technology, when welding four-way valves with components such as oil separators to achieve the assembly of the whole machine, the large size of the whole machine makes it difficult to place it in a high-temperature furnace for furnace welding. In order to control the cost of raw materials, the connector pipe of the four-way valve is usually made of stainless steel. However, due to the limitations of the stainless steel pipe material, it is difficult to achieve stable welding by manual welding when welding the piping and connector pipe. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a four-way valve structure, a refrigerant circulation loop, and a heating and ventilation system, which connects the connector pipe on the valve body to the piping through an adapter pipe made of a specific material, thereby enabling stable welding of the valve body to other components.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides a four-way valve structure, comprising:

[0007] The valve body has four valve ports;

[0008] Four connector tubes are provided, each corresponding to one of the four valve ports. The connector tubes are made of stainless steel and include a first connector end and a second connector end. The first connector end is configured to connect to the valve body.

[0009] Piping, the piping having a first mating end; and,

[0010] The adapter pipe has a first adapter end and a second adapter end, the first adapter end being inserted into the second connector end, and the second adapter end being inserted into the first mating end to connect the connector pipe and the piping. The adapter pipe is made of one of copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy.

[0011] In some embodiments, the second connector end is inserted into the first adapter end.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first adapter end is inserted into the second connector end.

[0013] In some embodiments, the second connector end overlaps the first mating end radially.

[0014] In some embodiments, the second connector end does not overlap with the first mating end in the radial direction.

[0015] In some embodiments, the connector tube is a straight tube.

[0016] In some embodiments, the connector tube includes a first DC section, a first transition section, and a second DC section connected in sequence. The first DC section has the first connector end, and the second DC section has the second connector end. The inner diameter of the first DC section is greater than or less than the inner diameter of the second DC section.

[0017] In some embodiments, the second adapter end is inserted into the first mating end.

[0018] In some embodiments, the first mating end is inserted into the second adapter end.

[0019] In some embodiments, the piping is a straight pipe.

[0020] In some embodiments, the piping includes a third DC section, a second transition section, and a fourth DC section connected in sequence, the third DC section having the first mating end, and the inner diameter of the third DC section being greater than or less than the inner diameter of the fourth DC section.

[0021] In some embodiments, the piping is made of copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy.

[0022] In some embodiments, the adapter is made of the same material as the piping or has the same main components.

[0023] In some embodiments, the adapter pipe is integrally formed.

[0024] In some embodiments, the transfer pipe is a straight pipe.

[0025] In some embodiments, the adapter includes a fifth DC section, a third transition section, and a sixth DC section connected in sequence. The fifth DC section has the first adapter end, the sixth DC section has the second adapter end, and the inner diameter of the fifth DC section is greater than or less than the inner diameter of the sixth DC section.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first adapter end and the second connector end are welded together with a first solder, and the second adapter end and the first mating end are welded together with a second solder, wherein the melting point of the first solder is greater than the melting point of the second solder.

[0027] In some embodiments, the piping is made of stainless steel.

[0028] In some embodiments, the adapter pipe includes a first connecting pipe and a second connecting pipe, wherein a first end of the first connecting pipe is the first adapter end, a first end of the second connecting pipe is the second adapter end, and a second end of the first connecting pipe is inserted into a second end of the second connecting pipe.

[0029] In some embodiments, the first connecting pipe is a straight pipe.

[0030] In some embodiments, the first connecting pipe includes a first DC connecting segment, a first transition connecting segment, and a second DC connecting segment connected in sequence. The first end of the first DC connecting segment is the first adapter end, and the second DC connecting segment is inserted into the second end of the second connecting pipe. The inner diameter of the first DC connecting segment is greater than or less than the inner diameter of the second DC connecting segment.

[0031] In some embodiments, the second connecting pipe is a straight pipe.

[0032] In some embodiments, the second connecting pipe includes a third DC connecting segment, a second transition connecting segment, and a fourth DC connecting segment connected in sequence. The third DC connecting segment is inserted into the second end of the first connecting pipe, and the fourth DC connecting segment has the second transition end. The inner diameter of the third DC connecting segment is greater than or less than the inner diameter of the fourth DC connecting segment.

[0033] In some embodiments, the first end of the first connecting pipe is welded to the second connector end by a third solder, the second end of the first connecting pipe is welded to the second end of the second connecting pipe by a fourth solder, and the first end of the second connecting pipe is welded to the first mating end by a fifth solder.

[0034] In some embodiments, the melting point of the third solder and the melting point of the fifth solder are both greater than the melting point of the fourth solder.

[0035] In some embodiments, the solder used to weld the first adapter end and the second connector end is formed by melting a weld ring embedded in the first adapter end or the second connector end.

[0036] In some embodiments, the solder used to weld the second adapter end and the first mating end is formed by melting a solder ring embedded in the second adapter end or the first mating end.

[0037] In some embodiments, a first radial gap is provided between the first adapter end and the second connector end in the radial direction of the first adapter end, which is configured to allow solder to flow in.

[0038] In some embodiments, a second radial gap is provided between the second adapter end and the first mating end in the radial direction of the second adapter end, which is configured to allow solder to flow in.

[0039] In some embodiments, the first adapter end or the second connector end is provided with a textured structure located in the first radial gap.

[0040] In some embodiments, the second adapter end or the first mating end is provided with a textured structure located in the second radial gap.

[0041] In some embodiments, the first adapter end and the first connector end are welded using an in-furnace welding process or a high-frequency welding process.

[0042] In some embodiments, the insertion length between the first adapter end and the first connector end is L1, where L1 ≥ 10 mm.

[0043] In some embodiments, the weld penetration depth between the first adapter end and the first joint end is L2, where L1≥L2≥0.8*L1.

[0044] In some embodiments, the insertion length between the second adapter end and the first mating end is L3, where 15 mm ≤ L2 ≤ 20 mm.

[0045] In some embodiments, the four-way valve structure further includes a first connector, a first end of which is inserted into the valve port and connected to the valve body, and a second end of which is welded to the first connector end of the connector tube. The first connector and the connector tube are made of the same material or have the same main components.

[0046] In some embodiments, the four-way valve structure further includes a second connector, the piping has a second mating end, a first end of the second connector is welded to the second mating end, and the second connector is made of the same material as the piping or the same material as its main components.

[0047] In some embodiments, the four-way valve structure further includes a first connector and a second connector, wherein a first end of the first connector is inserted into the valve port and connected to the valve body, and a second end of the first connector is welded to the first connector end of the connector pipe, wherein the first connector and the connector pipe are made of the same material or have the same main component material; the piping has a second mating end, wherein a first end of the second connector is welded to the second mating end, and the second connector and the piping are made of the same material or have the same main component material.

[0048] In some embodiments, the second end of the first connector is inserted into or mated with the first connector end of the connector tube.

[0049] In some embodiments, the first end of the second connector is inserted into or mated with the second mating end.

[0050] Secondly, this application also provides a refrigerant circulation loop, including an oil separator, a gas-liquid separator, a heat exchanger, a piping assembly, and a four-way valve structure as described in any one of the above embodiments; wherein, the inlet of the four valve ports is connected to the oil separator through the piping assembly, the first outlet of the four valve ports is connected to the gas-liquid separator through the piping assembly, the second outlet of the four valve ports is connected to the heat exchanger through the piping assembly, and the third outlet of the four valve ports is connected to the indoor unit through the piping assembly.

[0051] Thirdly, this application also provides a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, including an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, wherein the outdoor unit includes a refrigerant circulation loop as described in any of the above embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0052] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0053] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the valve body, connector pipe and adapter pipe in one embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the connector pipe, piping and adapter pipe in one embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the joint pipe and adapter pipe in one embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 4 is a structural schematic diagram of the connector pipe, piping and adapter pipe in another embodiment of this application;

[0057] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the transfer pipe and piping structure in one embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the transfer pipe and piping structure in another embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the transfer pipe and piping structure in another embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the transfer pipe and piping structure in another embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the joint pipe, piping and adapter pipe in another embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 10 is a structural schematic diagram of the connector pipe, piping and adapter pipe in another embodiment of this application;

[0063] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the joint pipe and adapter pipe in another embodiment of this application;

[0064] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the joint pipe and adapter pipe in another embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first connector, connector pipe, piping, adapter pipe and the second connector in one embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the refrigerant circulation loop in one embodiment of this application;

[0067] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system according to an embodiment of this application.

[0068] Reference numerals: 10. Four-way valve structure; 11. Valve body; 111. Valve port; 12. Connector pipe; 121. First connector end; 122. Second connector end; 123. First direct current section; 124. First transition section; 125. Second direct current section; 13. Piping; 131. First mating end; 132. Second mating end; 133. Third direct current section; 134. Second transition section; 135. Fourth direct current section; 14. Adapter pipe; 141. First adapter end; 142. Second adapter end; 143. Fifth direct current section; 144. Third transition section; 145, Sixth DC section; 146, First connecting pipe; 146a, First DC connection section; 146b, First transition connection section; 146c, Second DC connection section; 147, Second connecting pipe; 147a, Third DC connection section; 147b, Second transition connection section; 147c, Fourth DC connection section; 15, First connector; 16, Second connector; 17, Welding ring; 20, Outdoor unit; 21, Oil separator; 22, Gas-liquid separator; 23, Heat exchanger; 24, Piping assembly; 30, Indoor unit. Detailed Implementation

[0069] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0070] Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments of this application can be combined with each other, but only if they are based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or cannot be implemented, it should be considered that such combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this application.

[0071] This application provides a four-way valve structure, a refrigerant circulation loop, and a heating and ventilation system to solve the problem in related technologies where the four-way valve is welded to components such as an oil separator to achieve the purpose of assembling the whole machine. However, due to the large size of the whole machine, it is difficult to place it in a high-temperature furnace for furnace welding. In order to control the cost of raw materials, the connector pipe of the four-way valve is usually made of stainless steel. However, due to the limitations of stainless steel pipe, it is difficult to achieve stable welding by hand when welding the piping and connector pipe.

[0072] This application provides a four-way valve structure, a refrigerant circulation loop, and a heating and ventilation system to solve the problem in related technologies where the four-way valve is welded to components such as an oil separator to achieve the purpose of assembling the whole machine. However, due to the large size of the whole machine, it is difficult to place it in a high-temperature furnace for furnace welding. In order to control the cost of raw materials, the connector pipe of the four-way valve is usually made of stainless steel. However, due to the limitations of stainless steel pipe, it is difficult to achieve stable welding by hand when welding the piping and connector pipe.

[0073] In a first aspect, this application provides a four-way valve structure 10, which is configured to change the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the refrigerant circulation loop, as shown in Figures 1 and 2. The four-way valve structure 10 includes a valve body 11, four connector pipes 12, piping 13, and adapter pipe 14.

[0074] The valve body 11 has four valve ports 111, one of which is the inlet port 111, and the other three are outlet ports 111. The working principle of the four-way valve has been disclosed in related technologies and will not be elaborated here. Four connector pipes 12 are provided one-to-one with the four valve ports 111. The connector pipes 12 are made of stainless steel and include a first connector end 121 and a second connector end 122. The first connector end 121 is configured to connect to the valve body 11. The piping 13 has a first mating end 131. The adapter pipe 14 has a first adapter end 141 and a second adapter end 142. The first adapter end 141 is inserted into the second connector end 122, and the second adapter end 142 is inserted into the first mating end 131 to connect the connector pipe 12 and the piping 13. The adapter pipe 14 is made of copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy. It is understandable that the four connector pipes 12 are respectively connected to the four piping pipes 13 through the four adapter pipes 14. The piping pipes 13 are the fittings in the piping system, so that the valve body 11 can be connected to other devices in the refrigerant circulation loop through the piping pipes 13.

[0075] It should be noted that before the complete assembly, the valve body 11 and oil separator 21 in the refrigerant circulation loop are relatively small in size. In this application, when welding the valve body 11 and oil separator 21 (as shown in Figure 14) and other components through the piping 13, if the material of the piping 13 is copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy, the first connecting end 141 of the connecting pipe 14 and the second connecting end 122 of the connector pipe 12 can be welded first using a furnace welding process or a high-frequency welding process, and then the components can be further welded together. The second adapter end 142 of the adapter pipe 14 is welded to the first mating end 131 of the piping 13. Since welding copper pipe to copper pipe, copper pipe to aluminum pipe, copper alloy to aluminum pipe, copper alloy to aluminum alloy, and copper alloy pipe to aluminum pipe is more convenient, the second adapter end 142 and the first mating end 131 can be stably welded by manual welding methods such as manual brazing or manual fusion welding, so that the connection between the connector pipe 12 and the piping 13 can be realized, making the connection between the connector pipe 12 and the piping 13 more convenient and stable.

[0076] When the material of the piping 13 is stainless steel, the first adapter end 141 of the adapter pipe 14 and the second connector end 122 of the connector pipe 12 can be welded using a furnace welding process or a high-frequency welding process. Then, the second adapter end 142 can be welded to the first mating end 131. Subsequently, the first adapter end 141 and the second adapter end 142 of the adapter pipe 14 can be stably welded using manual brazing or manual fusion welding, thus achieving the connection between the connector pipe 12 and the piping 13. In addition, the two ends of the adapter pipe 14 (i.e., the first adapter end 141 and the second adapter end 142) are connected to the second connector end 122 and the first mating end 131 respectively by plugging, so that the two ends of the adapter pipe 14 overlap the second connector end 122 and the first mating end 131 in the radial direction. This allows for a greater thickness at the connection between the two ends of the adapter pipe 14, thereby increasing the strength of the connection between the two ends of the adapter pipe 14 and improving the reliability of the connection between the adapter pipe 14 and the connector pipe 12 and the piping 13.

[0077] When the valve body 11 is also made of stainless steel, the first connector end 121 can be welded to the valve body 11 using a furnace brazing process or a high-frequency welding process. In a high-temperature environment, the furnace contains hydrogen or hydrogen from the decomposition of ammonia. Hydrogen is a reducing gas that can reduce the oxide film on the outside of the steel pipe, which is beneficial for the wetting of the solder and enables the diffusion of the solder between stainless steel and copper (or copper alloys, aluminum, aluminum alloys). In addition, furnace brazing can control the temperature and welding time in different areas of the furnace, and can quickly cool down the sensitized area to prevent the formation of intergranular corrosion, thus ensuring the proper bonding between the steel pipe and the steel... Pipes (or copper pipes, aluminum pipes, etc.) can be brazed in the furnace to ensure the welding stability of the joint pipe 12 to the valve body 11, the adapter pipe 14 to the joint pipe 12, and the piping 13. The welding temperature parameters for furnace brazing are 800 degrees to 1082 degrees (this temperature is the actual surface temperature of the product to be welded in the furnace). Of course, the welding temperature parameters for furnace brazing can also be selected according to actual needs. If high-frequency welding is used, flux can be applied to the area to be welded before welding. The flux facilitates solder wetting. Water cooling after high-frequency welding can also prevent the formation of intergranular corrosion. For manual brazing, flame welding or high-frequency welding technology can be selected, and for manual fusion welding, argon arc welding technology can be selected.

[0078] As shown in Figure 2, in some embodiments, the insertion length between the first adapter end 141 and the first connector end 121 is L1, and the weld penetration depth between the first adapter end 141 and the first connector end 121 is L2, where L1 ≥ 10 mm and L1 ≥ L2 ≥ 0.8 * L1. It can be understood that L1 is the overlap length between the first adapter end 141 and the first connector end 121, and L2 is the weld length between the first adapter end 141 and the first connector end 121. Designing L2 to be sufficiently long ensures the weld stability between the first adapter end 141 and the first connector end 121, and designing L1 to be sufficiently long ensures that the first adapter end 141 and the first connector end 121 have sufficient weld length. L1 can be 10 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, or other values, and L2 can be 0.8 times, 0.85 times, 0.9 times, or other multiples of L1.

[0079] In some embodiments, the insertion length between the second adapter end 142 and the first mating end 131 is L3, where 15 mm ≤ L2 ≤ 20 mm, ensuring sufficient overlap between the second adapter end 142 and the first mating end 131 to guarantee welding stability. L3 can be 15 mm, 16 mm, 17.5 mm, 20 mm, or other values.

[0080] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG2, the second connector end 122 is inserted into the first adapter end 141. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG3, the first adapter end 141 is inserted into the second connector end 122, thereby realizing the insertion of the first adapter end 141 and the second connector end 122. The insertion length of the first adapter end 141 and the second connector end 122 is the length of the overlapping portion of the first adapter end 141 and the second connector end 122.

[0081] In some embodiments, the second connector end 122 and the first mating end 131 may overlap radially (as shown in FIG4) or not overlap (as shown in FIG2). It is understandable that when the second connector end 122 and the first mating end 131 overlap radially, the overlap of the second connector end 122, the first adapter end 141, and the first mating end 131 allows for a greater thickness at the connection of the first adapter end 141, thereby further improving the connection reliability between the adapter pipe 14, the connector pipe 12, and the piping 13, and shortening the overall length of the connector pipe 12, piping 13, and adapter pipe 14. When the second connector end 122 and the first mating end 131 do not overlap radially, taking the insertion of the second connector end 122 into the first adapter end 141 and the insertion of the second adapter end 142 into the first mating end 131 in Figure 2 as an example, the first mating end 131 only needs to be large enough to accommodate the second adapter end 142. The pipe diameter design of the first mating end 131 does not need to consider the pipe diameter of the second connector end 122, allowing the pipe diameter of the first mating end 131 to be designed to be smaller, thereby reducing the material used in the first mating end 131 and lowering production costs.

[0082] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG2, the connector tube 12 is a straight tube, that is, the diameter of the connector tube 12 is the same everywhere, so that the connector tube 12 does not need to be deformed such as flaring or shrinking, thereby making the manufacturing of the connector tube 12 simpler. In other embodiments, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the connector tube 12 includes a first DC section 123, a first transition section 124, and a second DC section 125 connected in sequence. The first DC section 123 has a first connector end 121, and the second DC section 125 has a second connector end 122. The inner diameter of the first DC section 123 is greater than or less than the inner diameter of the second DC section 125. It is understood that the inner diameter of the second DC section 125 is different from the inner diameter of the first DC section 123. The first transition section 124 is a variable diameter section between the second DC section 125 and the first DC section 123. The first transition section 124 is set at an angle to both the first DC section 123 and the second DC section 125. The first transition section 124 can be a sloped structure or an arc structure. When the inner diameter of the first DC section 123 is greater than that of the second DC section 125, the transition section 124 is used. When the inner diameter of the first DC section 123 is smaller than that of the second DC section 125 (as shown in Figure 4), the inner diameter of the first transition section 124 gradually decreases from the end near the first DC section 123 to the end near the second DC section 125. The diameter of the second connector end 122 is smaller, making it easier to insert the second connector end 122 into the first adapter end 141. Of course, the first adapter end 141 can also be inserted into the first adapter end 141 at this time. When the inner diameter of the first DC section 123 is smaller than that of the second DC section 125, the inner diameter of the first transition section 124 gradually increases from the end near the first DC section 123 to the end near the second DC section 125. The inner diameter of the second connector end 122 is larger, making it easier to insert the first adapter end 141 into the second connector end 122. Of course, the second connector end 122 can also be inserted into the first adapter end 141 at this time. Among them, the first DC section 123, the first transition section 124 and the second DC section 125 can be manufactured as a single piece to reduce the seams on the surface of the connector tube 12 and improve the overall structural strength of the connector tube 12.

[0083] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG5, the second adapter end 142 is inserted into the first mating end 131. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG6, the first mating end 131 is inserted into the second adapter end 142, thereby realizing the insertion of the second adapter end 142 and the first mating end 131. The insertion length of the second adapter end 142 and the first mating end 131 is the length of the overlapping portion of the second adapter end 142 and the first mating end 131.

[0084] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG5, the conduit 13 is a straight pipe, that is, the diameter of the conduit 13 is the same everywhere, so that the conduit 13 does not need to be deformed such as flaring or shrinking, thereby simplifying the manufacturing of the conduit 13. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG2 and FIG6, the conduit 13 includes a third DC section 133, a second transition section 134 and a fourth DC section 135 connected in sequence. The third DC section 133 has a first mating end 131, and the inner diameter of the third DC section 133 is greater than or less than the inner diameter of the fourth DC section 135. Understandably, the inner diameter of the fourth DC section 135 is different from that of the third DC section 133. The second transition section 134 can be a sloping or curved structure. When the inner diameter of the third DC section 133 is smaller than that of the fourth DC section 135 (as shown in Figure 6), the inner diameter of the second transition section 134 gradually decreases from the end closer to the third DC section 133 to the end closer to the fourth DC section 135. The smaller diameter of the first mating end 131 makes it easier to insert the first mating end 131 into the second adapter end 142. Of course, At this time, the second adapter end 142 can also be inserted into the first mating end 131. When the inner diameter of the third DC section 133 is larger than the inner diameter of the fourth DC section 135 (as shown in Figure 2), the inner diameter of the second transition section 134 gradually increases from the end closer to the third DC section 133 to the end closer to the fourth DC section 135. The inner diameter of the first mating end 131 is larger, making it easier for the second adapter end 142 to be inserted into the first mating end 131. Of course, at this time, the first mating end 131 can also be inserted into the second adapter end 142. Among them, the third DC section 133, the second transition section 134 and the fourth DC section 135 can be manufactured as a single piece to reduce the seams on the surface of the connector tube 12 and improve the overall structural strength of the connector tube 12.

[0085] As shown in Figures 2 and 5 to 8, in some embodiments of this application, the material of pipe 13 is copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy, and the material of adapter pipe 14 is the same as or has the same main component as pipe 13, that is, the material of adapter pipe 14 is copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy. The main component of pipe 13 refers to the material with the highest mass fraction among the materials forming pipe 13. For example, if the material with the highest mass fraction among the materials forming pipe 13 is copper, then the main component of pipe 13 is copper. Copper pipes, aluminum pipes, and other pipe materials have good weldability, allowing for stable welding of the first mating end 131 of pipe 13 to the second adapter end 142 of adapter pipe 14 by manual brazing or manual fusion welding. In some embodiments, when the material of pipe 13 is copper or copper alloy, the material of pipe 13 can be deoxidized phosphor bronze, pure copper, a copper alloy formed from deoxidized phosphor bronze, or a copper alloy formed from pure copper.

[0086] Furthermore, the adapter pipe 14 is integrally formed, that is, the adapter pipe 14 is a single integrally formed pipe. The first adapter end 141 and the second adapter end 142 of the adapter pipe 14 are integrally formed, which can reduce the seams on the surface of the adapter pipe 14 and improve the overall structural strength of the adapter pipe 14. When welding to form the four-way valve structure 10, the first adapter end 141 of the adapter pipe 14 can be welded first by furnace welding or high frequency welding. Then, the second adapter end 142 of the adapter pipe 14 can be welded to the first mating end 131 of the piping 13 by manual brazing or manual fusion welding.

[0087] In some embodiments, the first adapter end 141 and the second connector end 122 are welded together using a first solder, and the second adapter end 142 and the first mating end 131 are welded together using a second solder. The melting point of the first solder is greater than that of the second solder. It is understood that when forming the four-way valve structure 10, the first adapter end 141 and the second connector end 122 can be welded together first using the first solder, and then the second adapter end 142 and the first mating end 131 can be welded together using the second solder. Because the melting point of the first solder is greater than that of the second solder, the weld formed by the first solder will not melt when the temperature reaches its melting point when welding the second adapter end 142 and the first mating end 131. The first solder can be a copper solder with a high melting point, and the second solder can be an inexpensive phosphor bronze solder or a tin-copper solder, etc., with a lower melting point.

[0088] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG7, the adapter pipe 14 is a straight pipe, that is, the pipe diameter is the same at all points of the adapter pipe 14, so that the adapter pipe 14 does not need to be deformed such as flaring or shrinking, thereby simplifying the manufacturing of the adapter pipe 14. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG5 and FIG8, the adapter pipe 14 includes a fifth DC section 143, a third transition section 144, and a sixth DC section 145 connected in sequence. The fifth DC section 143 has a first transition end 141, and the sixth DC section 145 has a second transition end 142. The inner diameter of the fifth DC section 143 is greater than or less than the inner diameter of the sixth DC section 145. Understandably, the inner diameter of the fifth DC section 143 is different from that of the sixth DC section 145. The third transition section 144 is a variable diameter section between the fifth DC section 143 and the sixth DC section 145. When the inner diameter of the fifth DC section 143 is larger than that of the sixth DC section 145 (as shown in Figure 8), the inner diameter of the third transition section 144 gradually decreases from the end closer to the fifth DC section 143 to the end closer to the sixth DC section 145. The smaller diameter of the second adapter end 142 makes it easier to insert the second adapter end 142 into the first mating end 131. Of course, the first mating end 131 can also be inserted into the second adapter end 144 at this time. 2. When the inner diameter of the fifth DC section 143 is smaller than the inner diameter of the sixth DC section 145 (as shown in Figure 5), the inner diameter of the third transition section 144 gradually increases from the end closer to the fifth DC section 143 to the end closer to the sixth DC section 145. The inner diameter of the first adapter end 141 is smaller, and the inner diameter of the second adapter end 142 is larger, making it easier to insert the first adapter end 141 into the second connector end 122, and easier to insert the first mating end 131 into the second adapter end 142. Of course, at this time, the second connector end 122 can also be inserted into the first adapter end 141, and the second adapter end 142 can be inserted into the first mating end 131. Among them, the fifth DC section 143, the third transition section 144, and the sixth DC section 145 can be integrally molded to reduce the seams on the surface of the adapter pipe 14 and improve the overall structural strength of the adapter pipe 14.

[0089] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, in some embodiments of this application, the material of the piping 13 is stainless steel. It is understood that stainless steel is less expensive than copper and aluminum, effectively reducing the cost of the piping 13. Furthermore, stainless steel has advantages such as good structural strength and resistance to deformation, which can improve connection stability and resistance to vibration stress. Stainless steel also has good corrosion resistance, effectively resisting the erosion of heat exchange media in environments with frequent heat exchange. When the piping 13 is made of stainless steel, it can be formed from Fe, Cr, and Ni elements. The addition of Cr and Ni elements gives the stainless steel a lower pitting corrosion potential, lower pitting corrosion weight loss, and a lower martensitic transformation temperature, making it more difficult for the stainless steel to undergo martensitic phase transformation during processing. This results in stronger resistance to pitting corrosion and stress corrosion, allowing for direct flame welding without annealing.

[0090] In some embodiments, the adapter pipe 14 includes a first connecting pipe 146 and a second connecting pipe 147. The first end of the first connecting pipe 146 is a first adapter end 141, and the first end of the second connecting pipe 147 is a second adapter end 142. The second end of the first connecting pipe 146 is inserted into the second end of the second connecting pipe 147. That is, the adapter pipe 14 is formed by splicing the two connecting pipes, the first connecting pipe 146 and the second connecting pipe 147. When welding to form the four-way valve structure 10, the first connecting pipe 146 can be welded to the connector pipe 12 by a furnace welding process or a high-frequency welding process, and the second connecting pipe 147 can be welded to the piping 13 by a furnace welding process or a high-frequency welding process. Then, the first connecting pipe 146 and the second connecting pipe 147 can be welded by manual brazing or manual fusion welding.

[0091] In some embodiments, the first end of the first connecting pipe 146 is welded to the second connector end 122 using a third solder, the second end of the first connecting pipe 146 is welded to the second end of the second connecting pipe 147 using a fourth solder, and the first end of the second connecting pipe 147 is welded to the first mating end 131 using a fifth solder. The melting points of the third and fifth solders are both greater than the melting point of the fourth solder. It is understood that when welding to form the four-way valve structure 10, the first connecting pipe 146 can be first welded to the connector pipe 12 using the third solder, and the second connecting pipe 147 can be welded to the piping 13 using the fifth solder. Subsequently, the first connecting pipe 146 and the second connecting pipe 147 can be welded using the fourth solder. Because the melting points of the third and fifth solders are greater than the melting point of the fourth solder, the weld formed by the third and fifth solders will not melt when the temperature reaches its melting point during the welding of the first connecting pipe 146 and the second connecting pipe 147. Among them, the melting point of the third solder can be greater than or equal to the melting point of the fifth solder. The third and fifth solders can be copper solders with higher melting points, and the fourth solder can be copper solders, or inexpensive phosphorus copper solders or tin copper solders with lower melting points, etc.

[0092] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG10, the first connecting pipe 146 is a straight pipe, that is, the diameter of the first connecting pipe 146 is the same everywhere, so that the first connecting pipe 146 does not need to be deformed such as flaring or shrinking, thereby making the manufacturing of the first connecting pipe 146 simpler. In some other embodiments, as shown in FIG9, the first connecting pipe 146 includes a first DC connecting section 146a, a first transition connecting section 146b, and a second DC connecting section 146c connected in sequence. The first end of the first DC connecting section 146a is a first adapter end 141. The second DC connecting section 146c is inserted into the second end of the second connecting pipe 147. The inner diameter of the first DC connecting section 146a is greater than or less than the inner diameter of the second DC connecting section 146c, making it easier to insert the first DC connecting section 146a of the first connecting pipe 146 into the second connector end 122 and to insert the second DC connecting section 146c into the second connecting pipe 147. Alternatively, the second DC connecting section 146c can be inserted into the second end of the second connecting pipe 147 (as shown in FIG10), or the second end of the second connecting pipe 147 can be inserted into the second DC connecting section 146c.

[0093] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG10, the second connecting pipe 147 is a straight pipe, that is, the diameter of the second connecting pipe 147 is the same everywhere, so that the second connecting pipe 147 does not need to be deformed such as flaring or shrinking, thereby making the manufacturing of the second connecting pipe 147 simpler. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG9, the second connecting pipe 147 includes a third DC connecting section 147a, a second transition connecting section 147b, and a fourth DC connecting section 147c connected in sequence. The third DC connecting section 147a is inserted into the second end of the first connecting pipe 146. The fourth DC connecting section 147c has a second transition end 142. The inner diameter of the third DC connecting section 147a is greater than or less than the inner diameter of the fourth DC connecting section 147c, making it easier to insert the third DC connecting section 147a of the second connecting pipe 147 into the first connecting pipe 146 and to insert the fourth DC connecting section 147c into the piping 13. Alternatively, the third DC connecting section 147a can be inserted into the second end of the first connecting pipe 146, or the second end of the first connecting pipe 146 can be inserted into the third DC connecting section 147a (as shown in FIG10).

[0094] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG11, the solder for welding the first adapter end 141 and the second connector end 122 is formed by melting a welding ring 17 embedded in the first adapter end 141 or the second connector end 122. It is understood that before welding the first adapter end 141 and the second connector end 122, a welding ring 17 is first embedded in the first adapter end 141 or the second connector end 122. Then, the first adapter end 141 and the second connector end 122 are heated, and the welding ring 17 melts to form solder after reaching its melting point. The weld formed after the solder cools welds the first adapter end 141 and the second connector end 122, making the welding of the first adapter end 141 and the second connector end 122 more convenient. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG12, the solder for welding the first adapter end 141 and the second connector end 122 can also be formed by melting a welding ring 17 disposed at the port of the first adapter end 141 or the port of the second connector end 122.

[0095] In some embodiments, the solder for welding the second adapter end 142 and the first mating end 131 is formed by melting a solder ring 17 embedded in the second adapter end 142 or the first mating end 131. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG12, the solder for welding the second adapter end 142 and the first mating end 131 may also be formed by melting a solder ring 17 disposed at the port of the second adapter end 142 or the port of the first mating end 131.

[0096] In some embodiments, a first radial gap is provided between the first adapter end 141 and the second connector end 122 in the radial direction of the first adapter end 141 to allow solder to flow in. The first radial gap can provide flow space for molten solder, which can increase the solder spreading length and thus improve the welding effect between the first adapter end 141 and the second connector end 122. In some embodiments, a second radial gap is provided between the second adapter end 142 and the first mating end 131 in the radial direction of the second adapter end 142 to allow solder to flow in. The second radial gap can also provide flow space for molten solder.

[0097] In some embodiments, the first adapter end 141 or the second connector end 122 is provided with a textured structure located in the first radial gap. The textured structure can be formed on the first adapter end 141 and / or the second connector end 122. Taking the insertion of the first adapter end 141 into the second connector end 122 as an example, the textured structure can be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the first adapter end 141 and / or the inner wall surface of the second connector end 122. The textured structure can improve the roughness of the connection surface between the first adapter end 141 and the second connector end 122, thereby providing capillary action for the solder, allowing the solder to flow along the textured structure, thereby further increasing the solder spreading length and thus improving the welding effect. The textured structure can be a brushed structure or a knurled structure, or other structures that can improve surface roughness.

[0098] In some embodiments, the second adapter end 142 or the first mating end 131 is provided with a textured structure located in the second radial gap.

[0099] As shown in Figure 13, in some embodiments, the four-way valve structure 10 further includes a first connector 15. The first end of the first connector 15 is inserted into the valve port 111 and connected to the valve body 11. The second end of the first connector 15 is welded to the first connector end 121 of the connector tube 12. The first connector 15 and the connector tube 12 are made of the same material or have the same main components. That is, the material or main material of the first connector 15 is stainless steel. The connector tube 12 can be welded to the first connector 15 by a furnace welding process or a high-frequency welding process, thereby realizing the connection with the valve body 11.

[0100] The second end of the first connector 15 can be inserted into or butt-jointed with the first connector end 121 of the connector tube 12. Insertion of the second end of the first connector 15 into the first connector end 121 means that the second end of the first connector 15 is inserted into the first connector end 121, or the first connector end 121 is inserted into the second end of the first connector 15. The insertion welding of the second end of the first connector 15 and the first connector end 121 can be achieved by using a furnace welding process or a high-frequency welding process. Butt-jointing of the second end of the first connector 15 with the first connector end 121 means that the end face of the second end of the first connector 15 is attached to the end face of the first connector end 121, and the gap between the end face of the second end of the first connector 15 and the end face of the first connector end 121 is welded by welding. The butt welding of the second end of the first connector 15 and the first connector end 121 can be achieved by using a resistance welding process, manual brazing, or manual fusion welding process.

[0101] In some embodiments, the four-way valve structure 10 further includes a second connector 16, the piping 13 has a second mating end 132, the first end of the second connector 16 is welded to the second mating end 132, thereby realizing the connection with devices such as the oil separator 21, and the second connector 16 is made of the same material as the piping 13 or the same material as the main component.

[0102] Wherein, the first end of the second connector 16 is inserted into or butted with the second mating end 132. When the material of the pipe 13 is copper, copper alloy, aluminum or aluminum alloy, the insertion welding of the first end of the second connector 16 and the second mating end 132 can be achieved by manual brazing or manual fusion welding, and the butt welding of the first end of the second connector 16 and the second mating end 132 can be achieved by resistance welding, manual brazing or manual fusion welding. When the material of the pipe 13 is stainless steel, the insertion welding of the first end of the second connector 16 and the second mating end 132 can be achieved by furnace welding or high frequency welding, and the butt welding of the first end of the second connector 16 and the second mating end 132 can be achieved by resistance welding, manual brazing or manual fusion welding.

[0103] In some embodiments, the centerlines of the connector pipe 12, the piping 13, and the adapter pipe 14 coincide, so that the connector pipe 12, the piping 13, and the adapter pipe 14 can be coaxially arranged, making it easier to connect the two ends of the adapter pipe 14 to the connector pipe 12 and the piping 13.

[0104] Secondly, based on the above-mentioned four-way valve structure 10, this application also provides a refrigerant circulation loop, as shown in FIG14. The four-way valve structure 10 includes an oil separator 21, a gas-liquid separator 22, a heat exchanger 23, a piping assembly 24, and a four-way valve structure 10 as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0105] Among them, the inlet of the four valve ports 111 is connected to the oil separator 21 through the piping assembly 24, the first outlet of the four valve ports 111 is connected to the gas-liquid separator 22 through the piping assembly 24, the second outlet of the four valve ports 111 is connected to the heat exchanger 23 through the piping assembly 24, and the third outlet of the four valve ports 111 is connected to the indoor unit 30 through the piping assembly 24.

[0106] Thirdly, based on the above-mentioned refrigerant circulation loop, this application also provides a heating and ventilation system, as shown in FIG15. The heating and ventilation system includes an outdoor unit 20 and an indoor unit 30. The outdoor unit 20 includes a refrigerant circulation loop as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0107] In the accompanying drawings of this embodiment, the same or similar reference numerals correspond to the same or similar components. In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, they are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, the terms used to describe positional relationships in the accompanying drawings are only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting this patent. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0108] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A four-way valve structure, wherein, include: The valve body has four valve ports; Four connector tubes are provided, each corresponding to one of the four valve ports. The connector tubes are made of stainless steel and include a first connector end and a second connector end. The first connector end is configured to connect to the valve body. Piping, the piping having a first mating end; and, The adapter pipe has a first adapter end and a second adapter end, the first adapter end being inserted into the second connector end, and the second adapter end being inserted into the first mating end to connect the connector pipe and the piping. The adapter pipe is made of one of copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy.

2. The four-way valve structure according to claim 1, wherein, The second connector end is inserted into the first adapter end; or, the first adapter end is inserted into the second connector end.

3. The four-way valve structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The second connector end may or may not overlap with the first mating end in the radial direction.

4. The four-way valve structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The connector pipe is a straight pipe; or... The connector tube includes a first DC section, a first transition section, and a second DC section connected in sequence. The first DC section has the first connector end, and the second DC section has the second connector end. The inner diameter of the first DC section is greater than or less than the inner diameter of the second DC section.

5. The four-way valve structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The second adapter end is inserted into the first mating end, or the first mating end is inserted into the second adapter end.

6. The four-way valve structure according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The piping is in the form of straight pipes; or... The piping includes a third DC section, a second transition section, and a fourth DC section connected in sequence. The third DC section has the first mating end, and the inner diameter of the third DC section is greater than or less than the inner diameter of the fourth DC section.

7. The four-way valve structure according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The piping is made of copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy, and the adapter pipe is made of the same material as the piping or has the same main components.

8. The four-way valve structure according to claim 7, wherein, The transfer pipe is integrally molded.

9. The four-way valve structure according to claim 8, wherein, The transfer pipe is a straight pipe; or... The adapter pipe includes a fifth DC section, a third transition section, and a sixth DC section connected in sequence. The fifth DC section has the first adapter end, and the sixth DC section has the second adapter end. The inner diameter of the fifth DC section is greater than or less than the inner diameter of the sixth DC section.

10. The four-way valve structure according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, The first adapter end and the second connector end are welded together with a first solder, and the second adapter end and the first mating end are welded together with a second solder. The melting point of the first solder is greater than that of the second solder.

11. The four-way valve structure according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The piping is made of stainless steel.

12. The four-way valve structure according to claim 11, wherein, The adapter pipe includes a first connecting pipe and a second connecting pipe. The first end of the first connecting pipe is the first adapter end, the first end of the second connecting pipe is the second adapter end, and the second end of the first connecting pipe is inserted into the second end of the second connecting pipe.

13. The four-way valve structure according to claim 12, wherein, The first connecting pipe is a straight pipe; or, The first connecting tube includes a first DC connecting section, a first transition connecting section and a second DC connecting section connected in sequence. The first end of the first DC connecting section is the first adapter end. The second DC connecting section is inserted into the second end of the second connecting tube. The inner diameter of the first DC connecting section is greater than or less than the inner diameter of the second DC connecting section.

14. The four-way valve structure according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, The second connecting pipe is a straight pipe; or, The second connecting pipe includes a third DC connecting section, a second transition connecting section and a fourth DC connecting section connected in sequence. The third DC connecting section is inserted into the second end of the first connecting pipe. The fourth DC connecting section has the second transition end. The inner diameter of the third DC connecting section is greater than or less than the inner diameter of the fourth DC connecting section.

15. The four-way valve structure according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein, The first end of the first connecting pipe is welded to the end of the second connector by a third solder, the second end of the first connecting pipe is welded to the second end of the second connecting pipe by a fourth solder, and the first end of the second connecting pipe is welded to the first mating end by a fifth solder. The melting point of the third solder and the melting point of the fifth solder are both greater than the melting point of the fourth solder.

16. The four-way valve structure according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein, The solder used to weld the first adapter end and the second connector end is formed by melting a solder ring embedded in either the first adapter end or the second connector end; and / or, The solder used to weld the second adapter end and the first mating end is formed by melting a solder ring embedded in the second adapter end or the first mating end.

17. The four-way valve structure according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein, In the radial direction of the first adapter end, a first radial gap is provided between the first adapter end and the second connector end to allow solder to flow in; And / or, In the radial direction of the second adapter end, a second radial gap is provided between the second adapter end and the first mating end to allow solder to flow in.

18. The four-way valve structure according to claim 17, wherein, The first adapter end or the second connector end is provided with a textured structure located in the first radial gap; and / or, The second adapter end or the first mating end is provided with a textured structure located in the second radial gap.

19. The four-way valve structure according to any one of claims 1 to 183, wherein, The first adapter end and the first connector end are welded using an in-furnace welding process or a high-frequency welding process.

20. The four-way valve structure according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein, The insertion length between the first adapter end and the first connector end is L1, and the welding penetration depth between the first adapter end and the first connector end is L2, where L1≥10 mm and L1≥L2≥0.8*L1.

21. The four-way valve structure according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein, The insertion length between the second adapter end and the first mating end is L3, 15 mm ≤ L2 ≤ 20 mm.

22. The four-way valve structure according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein, The four-way valve structure also includes: A first connector, wherein a first end of the first connector is inserted into the valve port and connected to the valve body, and a second end of the first connector is welded to the first connector end of the connector tube; the first connector and the connector tube are made of the same material or have the same main components; and / or The second connector has a second mating end, the first end of the second connector is welded to the second mating end, and the second connector is made of the same material as the pipe or the same material as its main components.

23. The four-way valve structure according to claim 22, wherein, The second end of the first connector is inserted into or mated with the first connector end of the connector tube; and / or, The first end of the second connector is inserted into or mated with the second mating end.

24. A refrigerant circulation loop, wherein, It includes an oil separator, a gas-liquid separator, a heat exchanger, a piping assembly, and a four-way valve structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 23; The inlet of the four valve ports is connected to the oil separator via a piping assembly, the first outlet of the four valve ports is connected to the gas-liquid separator via a piping assembly, the second outlet of the four valve ports is connected to the heat exchanger via a piping assembly, and the third outlet of the four valve ports is connected to the indoor unit via a piping assembly.

25. A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, wherein, It includes an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, wherein the outdoor unit includes the refrigerant circulation loop as described in claim 24.

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