Heat exchanger

Abstract

The present invention provides a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is provided. In one embodiment, the heat exchanger comprises: a first heat exchanger which is formed by stacking plate-shaped heat exchangers, and in which a refrigerant flows; a receiver-drier which communicates with the first heat exchanger so as to separate gas and liquid of the refrigerant introduced from the first heat exchanger and return same to the first heat exchanger; and a refrigerant block for connecting the first heat exchanger and the receiver-drier, wherein the refrigerant block can have, therein, a separation structure for separating a flow path of the refrigerant flowing from the first heat exchanger to the receiver-drier and a flow path of the refrigerant discharged from the receiver-drier to the first heat exchanger.

Description

heat exchanger

[0001] The present invention relates to a heat exchanger mounted on an electric vehicle, and more specifically, to a heat exchanger comprising a connection structure between a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between a high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant and cooling water and a receiver dryer.

[0002]

[0003] Electric vehicles require a compact design, and designs that allow for the modular assembly of various components are becoming increasingly important. When combining various in-vehicle components, particularly those including heat exchangers, into a single package, optimization of placement, size, and connection methods is required. This enables improved space efficiency and promotes increased productivity and cost reduction. However, issues that may arise at the connection points of these components are becoming a significant challenge that needs to be addressed.

[0004] The receiver dryer is a critical component in refrigerant systems, responsible for storing refrigerant, separating the refrigerant from its gas and liquid phases, and removing moisture. Commonly used in automotive cooling or air conditioning systems, the receiver dryer enhances system stability by removing moisture and impurities contained within the refrigerant as it condenses and turns into a liquid state, and by separating the mixture of gas and liquid.

[0005] Generally, receiver dryers are connected to heat exchangers, such as water-cooled or air-cooled condensers, to control refrigerant flow and optimize its condition. Water-cooled condensers play a role in lowering the temperature and reducing the pressure of the refrigerant during the process where high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant condenses into a liquid state through heat exchange with cooling water. In this process, the receiver dryer facilitates the smooth flow of the refrigerant, converted into a liquid state, within the system by separating the gas and liquid phases and removing impurities.

[0006] However, when the receiver dryer and the heat exchanger are connected and interconnected, the large volume of the connecting piping used reduces the efficiency of refrigerant flow within the heat exchanger and increases the size and weight of the overall system. For example, if the piping for moving refrigerant from the heat exchanger to the receiver dryer and the piping for moving refrigerant from the receiver dryer to the heat exchanger exist separately, the volume and surface area occupied by the pipes within the heat exchanger are large, reducing the heat exchange surface area. Consequently, there is a problem with reduced heat exchange efficiency.

[0007]

[0008] The present invention was devised to solve the problems described above, and has one objective of providing a heat exchanger capable of preventing refrigerant leakage by minimizing the connection between the receiver dryer and the heat exchanger.

[0009] In addition, one objective is to provide a heat exchanger that minimizes the reduction in the heat exchange surface area of ​​the heat exchanger by minimizing the connection between the receiver dryer and the heat exchanger.

[0010] The problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0011]

[0012] A heat exchanger is provided as a technical means to achieve the above-mentioned technical problem. In one embodiment, the heat exchanger comprises: a first heat exchanger formed by stacking plate-shaped heat exchangers and having a refrigerant flowing inside; a receiver dryer communicating with the first heat exchanger and separating the gas and liquid of the refrigerant introduced from the first heat exchanger and transferring it back to the first heat exchanger; and a refrigerant block connecting the first heat exchanger and the receiver dryer, wherein the refrigerant block may have a separation structure inside that separates the flow paths of the refrigerant introduced from the first heat exchanger to the receiver dryer and the refrigerant discharged from the receiver dryer to the first heat exchanger.

[0013] In addition, in one embodiment, the heat exchanger comprises: a first heat exchanger formed by stacking plate-shaped heat exchangers and having a refrigerant flowing inside; a receiver dryer communicating with the first heat exchanger and separating the gas and liquid of the refrigerant introduced from the first heat exchanger and transferring it to an external space; and a refrigerant block connecting the first heat exchanger and the receiver dryer, wherein the refrigerant block may have a separation structure inside that separates the flow paths of the refrigerant introduced from the first heat exchanger to the receiver dryer and the refrigerant discharged from the receiver dryer to the external space.

[0014]

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention as described above, there is an advantage of preventing performance degradation due to refrigerant leakage by minimizing connections between parts.

[0016] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of preventing increased component replacement costs due to refrigerant leakage problems and improving the reliability of the system.

[0017] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of minimizing the reduction in the heat exchange area of ​​the heat exchanger by minimizing the connection between the dryer and the heat exchanger.

[0018] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0019]

[0020] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the heat exchange section of Figure 1.

[0022] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a-a' in Figure 2.

[0023] FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a double piping structure according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger of FIG. 5 of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the double piping structure of Figure 7.

[0028]

[0029] A heat exchanger is provided as a technical means to achieve the above-mentioned technical problem. In one embodiment, the heat exchanger comprises: a first heat exchanger formed by stacking plate-shaped heat exchangers and having a refrigerant flowing inside; a receiver dryer communicating with the first heat exchanger and separating the gas and liquid of the refrigerant introduced from the first heat exchanger and transferring it back to the first heat exchanger; and a refrigerant block connecting the first heat exchanger and the receiver dryer, wherein the refrigerant block may have a separation structure inside that separates the flow paths of the refrigerant introduced from the first heat exchanger to the receiver dryer and the refrigerant discharged from the receiver dryer to the first heat exchanger.

[0030] In one embodiment, the separation structure may include a first pipe through which refrigerant flowing from a first heat exchanger to a receiver dryer flows; and a second pipe through which refrigerant flowing out from a receiver dryer to a first heat exchanger flows.

[0031] In one embodiment, either the first pipe or the second pipe may be provided with a structure inserted into the inner side of the other.

[0032] In one embodiment, the first heat exchanger includes a first refrigerant flow path for transferring refrigerant from the first heat exchanger to a receiver dryer; a second refrigerant flow path for receiving refrigerant from the receiver dryer to the first heat exchanger; a first region in which the first refrigerant flow path is disposed and the refrigerant is condensed; and a second region in which the second refrigerant flow path is disposed and the refrigerant is subcooled, and the first pipe may be provided to be in communication with the first region and the second pipe may be provided to be in communication with the second region.

[0033] In one embodiment, a first refrigerant inlet is formed on the upper side of a first region to introduce refrigerant into a first refrigerant flow path, and a first refrigerant outlet is formed on the upper side of a second region to discharge refrigerant from a second refrigerant flow path to the outside of a first heat exchanger.

[0034] In one embodiment, when viewed from a first direction in which plate-shaped heat exchangers are stacked,

[0035] The receiver dryer, the first area, and the second area can be arranged in that order.

[0036] In one embodiment, when viewed from a first direction in which plate-shaped heat exchangers are stacked, they may be arranged in the order of a receiver dryer, a second region, and a first region.

[0037] In one embodiment, the first pipe may be provided to extend upward from the center of the lowest part of the receiver dryer.

[0038] In one embodiment, the second pipe may be provided adjacent to the center of the lowest part of the receiver dryer.

[0039] In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a second heat exchanger connected to and coupled with a first heat exchanger, wherein the second heat exchanger comprises: a first temperature refrigerant path through which a first refrigerant of a first temperature introduced from the first heat exchanger flows; and a second temperature refrigerant path through which a second refrigerant of a second temperature lower than the first temperature flows; and the first temperature refrigerant path and the second temperature refrigerant path may form a heat exchange section that is positioned adjacent to a location where heat exchange between the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant is possible in a portion of the section.

[0040] In one embodiment, the second heat exchanger may have a first temperature refrigerant inlet formed on one side through which a first refrigerant from the first heat exchanger flows in, and on the other side, a first temperature refrigerant outlet through which the first refrigerant flows out, a second temperature refrigerant inlet through which a second refrigerant flows in and out, and a second temperature refrigerant outlet formed therein.

[0041] In one embodiment, the heat exchange amount of the first heat exchanger may be provided to be greater than the heat exchange amount of the second heat exchanger.

[0042] In one embodiment, the stacking surfaces of the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are each provided to face each other with the same area, and in the direction in which the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are stacked, the height may be provided in the order of the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

[0043] In one embodiment, the first heat exchanger is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between a first refrigerant at high temperature and high pressure and cooling water, and the second heat exchanger may be an internal heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the first refrigerant and a second refrigerant at low temperature and low pressure.

[0044] In one embodiment, the first heat exchanger is provided as a condenser that condenses the refrigerant into a low-temperature liquid state through heat exchange between the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant and the cooling water, and the second heat exchanger may be provided as a double heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between refrigerants in separate flow paths.

[0045] In addition, in one embodiment, the heat exchanger comprises: a first heat exchanger formed by stacking plate-shaped heat exchangers and having a refrigerant flowing inside; a receiver dryer communicating with the first heat exchanger and separating the gas and liquid of the refrigerant introduced from the first heat exchanger and transferring it to an external space; and a refrigerant block connecting the first heat exchanger and the receiver dryer, wherein the refrigerant block may have a separation structure inside that separates the flow paths of the refrigerant introduced from the first heat exchanger to the receiver dryer and the refrigerant discharged from the receiver dryer to the external space.

[0046] In one embodiment, the separation structure may include a first pipe through which refrigerant flowing from a first heat exchanger to a receiver dryer flows; and a second pipe through which refrigerant flowing from the receiver dryer to an external space flows.

[0047] In one embodiment, either the first pipe or the second pipe may be provided with a structure inserted into the inner side of the other.

[0048] In one embodiment, the second pipe may be provided to communicate with the outside space across the interior of the first heat exchanger.

[0049] In one embodiment, the external space may be provided to face the receiver dryer with the first heat exchanger at its center.

[0050]

[0051] Embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the attached drawings to enable those skilled in the art to easily implement the invention. However, the present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, in order to clearly explain the present invention in the drawings, parts unrelated to the explanation have been omitted, and similar parts throughout the specification are denoted by similar reference numerals.

[0052] Throughout the entire specification, when a part is described as being "connected" to another part, this includes not only cases where they are "directly connected," but also cases where they are connected with other elements in between.

[0053] Throughout this specification, when a component is described as being located “on” another component, this includes not only cases where a component is in contact with another component, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0054] Throughout this specification, when a part is described as "comprising" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components. Throughout this specification, terms of degree such as "about," "substantially," etc., are used to mean at or near the stated value when inherent manufacturing and material tolerances are presented in the said meaning, and are used to prevent unscrupulous infringers from unfairly exploiting the disclosure in which precise or absolute values ​​are mentioned to aid in understanding this specification. Throughout this specification, terms of degree such as "step of" or "step of" do not mean "step for."

[0055] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings and the contents described below. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein and may be embodied in other forms. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals indicate the same components.

[0056] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings and the contents described below. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein and may be embodied in other forms. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals indicate the same components.

[0057]

[0058] [1st Example]

[0059]

[0060] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a heat exchanger (1000) according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a heat exchanger (300) of a heat exchanger (1000) according to an embodiment of the present invention (in FIG. 2, the shape of the plate is omitted to briefly show the fluid flow inside the heat exchanger (1000)).

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the heat exchanger (1000) has a first plate (100), a second plate (200), a receiver dryer (315), and a heat exchange section (300). The first plate (100) and the second plate (200) form the outermost part of the heat exchanger (1000), and a heat exchange section (300) is provided between them. The heat exchange section (300) includes a first heat exchanger (310).

[0062] In one example, the heat exchanger (300) is provided in the form of a plate heat exchanger in which a plurality of plates are stacked. Between plates having a certain thickness, a space formed by combining the plates is provided as a flow path through which fluid can flow, allowing refrigerant and cooling water to flow inside the plate heat exchanger. In one example, the plate heat exchanger is formed by stacking a plurality of flat plates and is configured to include a core in which a heat exchange medium flows and exchanges heat in each plate. Refrigerant or cooling water may flow as a heat exchange medium inside the core, and the core may be configured to allow the refrigerant and cooling water to flow alternately between the stacked plates. The plates may be formed in a rectangular shape, and the rectangular shape may be a rectangular shape in which the length is longer in one direction. Additionally, if necessary, a through hole may be formed at a predetermined location on the plate in a certain area, and a plurality of plates having through holes at the same location may be combined to form a flow path. In the case of a plate heat exchanger, a multi-layer structure can be used to increase the heat transfer area while minimizing the overall size.

[0063]

[0064] In one example, the first heat exchanger (310) is a heat exchanger in which a high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant exchanges heat with cooling water. The refrigerant introduced into the first heat exchanger (310) in a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous state releases heat from a superheated state through heat exchange with cooling water, and the temperature of the refrigerant is lowered and the pressure is reduced, causing it to condense into a liquid state. The first heat exchanger (310) condenses the refrigerant through this process and converts the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant into a liquid, making it suitable for refrigerant circulation. In this process, the cooling water is introduced at a relatively low temperature, absorbs the heat of the refrigerant, and the temperature of the cooling water rises. The main purpose of the first heat exchanger (310) is to remove the superheat of the refrigerant and condense it to maintain the temperature of the refrigerant at an appropriate level.

[0065] In one example, the first heat exchanger (310) is provided as a water-cooled condenser. Alternatively, the first heat exchanger (310) may be provided as any one of a water-cooled condenser, a chiller, or a water-cooled evaporator. On the first plate (100), a first refrigerant inlet (111) for refrigerant to flow into the first heat exchanger (310), a first cooling water inlet (121) for cooling water to flow in and out, and a first cooling water outlet (122) are formed. In the example described above, the first cooling water inlet (121) and the first cooling water outlet (122) are formed on the first plate (100); however, the first cooling water inlet (121) and the first cooling water outlet (122) may be formed on the second plate (200). In one example, the first cooling water inlet (121) and the first cooling water outlet (122) are provided in an upward and downward direction relative to each other. If necessary, the first cooling water inlet (121) may be provided above the first cooling water outlet (122), or the first cooling water inlet (121) may be provided below the first cooling water outlet (122). A first refrigerant outlet (231) is formed on the second plate (200).

[0066] The first heat exchanger (310) includes a first region (311), a second region (312), a first cooling water path (314), and a first refrigerant path (3111) and a second refrigerant path (3121). The first heat exchanger (310) is in communication with a first cooling water inlet (121), a first cooling water outlet (122) formed on a first plate (100), a first refrigerant inlet (111), and a first refrigerant outlet (231) formed on a second plate (100).

[0067] In one example, the first cooling water inlet (121), the first cooling water outlet (122), and the first refrigerant inlet (111) are connected to the first area (311). In one example, the first area (311), the second area (312), and the receiver dryer (315) are connected, and the receiver dryer (315), the first area (311), and the second area (312) are arranged sequentially.

[0068] The first refrigerant flow path (3111) is provided in the first area (311) and forms a refrigerant flow path connecting the first refrigerant inlet (111) and the receiver dryer (315). The second refrigerant flow path (3121) is provided in the second area (312) and forms a refrigerant flow path connecting the receiver dryer (315) and the first refrigerant outlet (231).

[0069] The first cooling water path (314) forms a cooling water path connecting the first cooling water inlet (121) and the first cooling water outlet (122). The cooling water moves inside the first heat exchanger (310) by the force of a pump or the like and performs heat exchange with the refrigerant. For example, the first cooling water path (314) performs heat exchange with the first refrigerant path (3111). Alternatively, the first cooling water path (314) performs heat exchange with the first refrigerant path (3111) and the second refrigerant path (3121).

[0070] In the first region (311), superheat removal and condensation of the refrigerant are performed, in the second region (312), subcooling of the refrigerant is performed, and in the receiver dryer (315), gas-liquid separation of the refrigerant is performed and foreign substances are removed. In one example, the refrigerant may be stored in the receiver dryer (315).

[0071] In the first region (311), heat is removed from the superheated refrigerant that has entered in a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous state. The superheated refrigerant releases excess heat through heat exchange with the cooling water before entering the condensation process. At this time, since the cooling water maintains a relatively low temperature, the cooling water absorbs the excess heat of the refrigerant, causing the temperature of the refrigerant to decrease and drop to an appropriate temperature. The refrigerant that has undergone the superheat removal process continues to transfer heat to the cooling water and condenses into a liquid. Through the superheat removal and condensation processes, the refrigerant changes from a high-temperature, high-pressure gas into a relatively low-temperature liquid.

[0072] The refrigerant passing through the first region (311) flows into the receiver dryer (315). In one example, the first refrigerant flows into the first region (311) from the upper part of the first heat exchanger (310) through the first refrigerant inlet (111), and the first region (311) and the receiver dryer (315) are connected at the lower part of the first region (311).

[0073] In one example, the receiver dryer (315) may be provided in a structure separable from the first region (311) and the second region (312). In one example, the receiver dryer (315) may be mounted on the first plate (100) so as to be in communication with the first region (311). That is, the receiver dryer (315) may be provided outside the first heat exchanger (310). In one example, the receiver dryer (315) may be provided in a position facing the second region (312) with respect to the first region (311).

[0074] In one example, the receiver dryer (315) may be provided with a structure (3151) including a desiccant and a filter inside. The refrigerant introduced into the receiver dryer (315) has moisture removed by the desiccant and the like, and impurities removed by the filter.

[0075] The refrigerant passing through the receiver dryer (315) flows into the first heat exchanger (310) through the lower part of the second region (312). In the second region (312), the refrigerant moves to the upper part of the second region (312) adjacent to the cooling water flow path, and the refrigerant is subcooled to a liquid state. Subcooling refers to the process in which the refrigerant is cooled to a temperature lower than its condensation point.

[0076]

[0077] In one example, the first heat exchanger (310) and the receiver dryer (315) are connected by a refrigerant block (350). In one example, a separation structure (400) may be provided inside the refrigerant block (350). In one example, the separation structure (400) is provided to separate the flow paths of the refrigerant flowing in from the first heat exchanger (310) and the refrigerant flowing out to the first heat exchanger (310). In one example, the separation structure (400) may include a pipe shape. In one example, the separation structure (400) may be provided as a double piping structure. In one example, the separation structure (400) includes a first pipe (410) and a second pipe (420). FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 at a-a'.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the first pipe (410) is in communication with the first refrigerant flow path (3111) and includes a first channel (411) inside. The second pipe (420) is in communication with the second refrigerant flow path (3121) and includes a second channel (412) inside.

[0079] The refrigerant flowing from the first heat exchanger (310) into the receiver dryer (315) through the first refrigerant flow path (3111) and the refrigerant transferred from the receiver dryer (315) to the first heat exchanger (310) through the second refrigerant flow path (3121) flow independently of each other within the separation structure (400).

[0080] The core cross-sectional area of ​​the heat exchanger (300) is the area where the refrigerant and the cooling water come into contact within the heat exchanger (300), and it has a significant effect on the heat transfer efficiency. As the first heat exchanger (310) and the receiver dryer (315) are connected by a separation structure (400), the core cross-sectional area can be prevented from being reduced by arranging two flow paths within a single pipe. That is, the separation structure (400) saves space within the heat exchanger (300) and prevents a decrease in the efficiency of heat exchange of the heat exchanger (300).

[0081] In the first region, the refrigerant in the first refrigerant path (3111) is condensed and then flows into the receiver dryer (315) through the first channel (411) formed in the first pipe (410). The refrigerant flowing into the receiver dryer (315) undergoes a process of gas-liquid separation and removal of foreign substances. Afterward, the refrigerant flows into the second region through the second channel (412) in the second pipe (420). In the second region, the refrigerant undergoes a subcooling process.

[0082] In one example, either the first pipe (410) or the second pipe (420) is provided in a structure inserted into the inner side of the other. In one example, the second pipe (420) is inserted into the first pipe (410), and the first channel (411) may be formed by a combination of the outer surface of the second pipe (420) and the inner surface of the first pipe (410). In one example, the first pipe (410) is provided to be in communication with a first area, and the second pipe (420) is provided to be in communication with a second area.

[0083] If necessary, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first channel (411) may be provided smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second channel (412). Alternatively, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first channel (411) may be provided larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second channel (412).

[0084] In one example, the first pipe (410) and the second pipe (420) have a structure that separates from the separation structure (400) at the bottom of the receiver dryer. In one example, the first pipe (410) and the second pipe (420) are provided adjacently at the bottom of the receiver dryer (315). Since the first pipe (410) and the second pipe (420) are provided adjacently at the bottom of the receiver dryer (315), the refrigerant can move upward from the bottom of the receiver dryer (315), then flow downward again from the top, and move to the second area through the second pipe (420).

[0085] In one example, the first pipe (410) is provided to extend upward from the center of the lowest end of the receiver dryer (315). Accordingly, the refrigerant moves from the bottom of the receiver dryer (315) upward. Subsequently, the refrigerant collected at the top of the receiver dryer moves downward and moves to a second area through the second pipe (420). In one example, the second pipe (420) is provided adjacent to the center of the lowest end of the receiver dryer (315).

[0086] In the example described above, the second pipe (420) is described as being inserted into the first pipe (410). However, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the first pipe (410) is inserted into the second pipe (420), and the second channel (412) can be formed by the combination of the outer surface of the first pipe (410) and the inner surface of the second pipe (420).

[0087] In the example described above, the receiver dryer (315), the first area (311), and the second area (312) are described as being arranged sequentially when viewed from the first direction. However, alternatively, the receiver dryer (315), the second area (312), and the first area (311) may be arranged sequentially when viewed from the first direction.

[0088]

[0089] [2nd Example]

[0090]

[0091] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a heat exchanger (1000a) according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger (300a) of FIG. 5 of the present invention (for the sake of explanation, the plate-shaped heat exchanger is omitted from the internal view of the second heat exchanger (320a) of FIG. 5 and the internal flow path configuration is shown clearly).

[0092] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the heat exchanger (1000a) has a first plate (100a), a second plate (200a), a receiver dryer (315a), and a heat exchange section (300a). The first plate (100a) and the second plate (200a) form the outermost part of the heat exchanger (1000a), and a heat exchange section (300a) is provided between them. The heat exchange section (300a) includes a first heat exchanger (310a), a second heat exchanger (320a), and a third heat exchanger (330a). In one example, the heat exchange section (300a) is provided as a single unit.

[0093] In one example, the first heat exchanger (310a) is the same heat exchanger as the first heat exchanger (310) provided in the first embodiment. In one example, the second heat exchanger (320a) is an internal heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between two refrigerants having different temperatures. For example, the second heat exchanger (320a) is an internal heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between a first refrigerant at high temperature and high pressure and a second refrigerant at low temperature and low pressure.

[0094] In the second heat exchanger (320a), a high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant (refrigerant introduced from the first heat exchanger (310a)) and a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant (refrigerant introduced from outside the heat exchanger (300a) or from an additional heat exchanger provided to the heat exchanger (300a)) exchange heat with each other. The second heat exchanger (320a) serves to resolve the temperature difference between the two refrigerants through heat exchange between them. In this process, the high-temperature refrigerant releases heat, and the low-temperature refrigerant absorbs heat to equalize their temperatures. The second heat exchanger (320a) balances the temperature of the refrigerants and helps in the efficient operation of the refrigerants within the system. Therefore, the second heat exchanger (320a) serves as an important internal heat exchanger responsible for heat exchange between the two refrigerants, maintains the refrigerant state stably, and maximizes the performance of the entire system through efficient heat exchange.

[0095] In one example, the first heat exchanger (310a) is provided as a water-cooled condenser. In one example, the second heat exchanger (320a) is provided as a double heat exchanger.

[0096] The second heat exchanger (320a) includes a first temperature refrigerant path (3201a) through which a first refrigerant of a first temperature introduced from the first heat exchanger (310a) flows, and a second temperature refrigerant path (3202a) through which a second refrigerant of a second temperature flows. In one example, the first temperature is provided higher than the second temperature. In one example, as described above, the first refrigerant is provided at a high temperature and high pressure, and the second refrigerant is provided at a relatively low temperature and low pressure compared to the first refrigerant.

[0097] The first temperature refrigerant path (3201a) and the second temperature refrigerant path (3202a) form a heat exchange section (E) that is positioned adjacent to a location where heat exchange between the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant is possible in a portion of the section. In the heat exchange section (E), heat exchange is performed between the first refrigerant at a high temperature and high pressure and the second refrigerant at a low temperature and low pressure.

[0098] In one example, the first plate (100a) is coupled to the first heat exchanger (310a) and has a first refrigerant inlet (111a) for introducing a first refrigerant into the first heat exchanger (310a), a first cooling water inlet (121a) and a first cooling water outlet (122a) for cooling water to flow in and out of the first heat exchanger (310a). In one example, the second plate (200a) is coupled to the second heat exchanger (320a) and has a second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a), a second temperature refrigerant outlet (3211a), and a first temperature refrigerant outlet (231a) for discharging the first refrigerant to the outside of the heat exchanger (300a).

[0099] The second heat exchanger (320a) has a first temperature refrigerant inlet (3111a) formed on one side through which the first refrigerant from the first heat exchanger (310a) flows in, and on the other side, a first temperature refrigerant outlet (231a), a second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a), and a second temperature refrigerant outlet (3211a) are formed through which the first refrigerant flows out.

[0100] When viewed from the first direction (X) where the plates are stacked, the first temperature refrigerant inlet (3111a) and the first temperature refrigerant outlet (231a) are arranged outside the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a) and the second temperature refrigerant outlet (3211a).

[0101] In one example, in the first direction (X), the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a) may be located above the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a). Alternatively, in the first direction (X), the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a) may be located below the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a). In one example, in the first direction (X), the first temperature refrigerant inlet (3111a) may be located above the first temperature refrigerant outlet (231a). Alternatively, in the first direction (X), the first temperature refrigerant inlet (3111a) may be located below the first temperature refrigerant outlet (231a). In one example, in the first direction (X), the first temperature refrigerant inlet (3111a), the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a), the second temperature refrigerant outlet (3211a), and the first refrigerant outlet (231a) may be arranged sequentially from top to bottom.

[0102] In one example, the heat exchanger (1000a) is provided in the form of a plate heat exchanger in which a plurality of plates are stacked. Between the plates having a certain thickness, the space formed by the combination of the plates is provided as a flow path through which fluid can flow, so that refrigerant and cooling water can flow inside the plate heat exchanger. In one example, the plate heat exchanger is formed by stacking a plurality of flat plates and is configured to include a core in which a heat exchange medium flows through each plate and exchanges heat. Refrigerant or cooling water can flow as a heat exchange medium inside the core, and the core can be configured so that the refrigerant and cooling water flow alternately between the stacked plates. The plates can be formed in a square shape, and the square shape can be a rectangular shape in which the length is longer in one direction.

[0103] In addition, if necessary, a through hole is formed at a specific location on the plate in a certain area, and a plurality of plates having through holes at the same location can be combined to form a flow path.

[0104] The first heat exchanger (310a) and the second heat exchanger (320a) may be provided with a structure to prevent the fluid in each heat exchange area from crossing over into each other's areas. Additionally, a structure may be provided to allow the fluid to move between each other's areas only in necessary areas.

[0105] In the case of a plate heat exchanger, a multi-layer structure can be used to increase the heat transfer area while minimizing the overall size. In one example, the heat exchanger (300a) is formed as a single unit. In one example, the first heat exchanger (310a) and the second heat exchanger (320a) are both provided as a single unit in which multiple plates of the same shape are stacked.

[0106] When the heat exchanger (1000a) is provided as a single unit in which each heat exchange section (300a) is integrated into a plate-shaped structure, vertical and horizontal arrangement of the heat exchange system (2000a) within the vehicle becomes possible, thereby greatly improving space efficiency. Additionally, maintenance becomes easier. It is easy to replace plates of the same shape, the entire unit can be inspected at once in the event of a problem, and inspection and repair of sealing parts to resolve leakage or refrigerant leak issues become easier.

[0107] In one example, the heat exchanger (300a) may be manufactured by brazing. Alternatively, the heat exchanger (300a) may be joined by welding, bonding, clamping, snap-fit, etc.

[0108] In one example, the heat exchange volume of the heat exchanger (300a) is provided larger in the order of the first heat exchanger (310a) and the second heat exchanger (320a). In one example, the size of the heat exchanger (300a) is provided larger in the order of the first heat exchanger (310a) and the second heat exchanger (320a). For example, the volume and total cross-sectional area are provided larger in the order of the first heat exchanger (310a) and the second heat exchanger (320a).

[0109] The stacking surfaces of the first heat exchanger (310a) and the second heat exchanger (320a) are provided to face each other, having the same area. In one example, the stacking surfaces of the first heat exchanger (310a) and the second heat exchanger (320a) are provided to have the same shape and cross-sectional area. In the first direction in which the first heat exchanger (310a) and the second heat exchanger (320a) are stacked, the height may be provided higher in the order of the first heat exchanger (310a) and the second heat exchanger (330a).

[0110] The first heat exchanger (310a) is formed with the largest volume and total cross-sectional area to efficiently release a large amount of heat. The second heat exchanger (320a) is responsible for heat exchange between refrigerants and is provided in the smallest size among the three heat exchangers due to a relatively low heat load. This is because, although precision and uniformity are important for heat exchange between refrigerants in the second heat exchanger (320a), a small area is sufficient since it does not handle a large amount of heat like the heat exchange between cooling water and refrigerants.

[0111] In one example, if the surfaces of plates stacked facing each other are referred to as stacking surfaces, the stacking surfaces of the first heat exchanger (310a) and the second heat exchanger (320a) are provided with the same size and shape. Accordingly, the installation space of the heat exchanger (1000a) can be minimized, thereby reducing the size of the entire system and maximizing space efficiency while maintaining structural stability.

[0112]

[0113] [3rd Example]

[0114]

[0115] FIG. 7 shows the appearance of a heat exchanger (1000b) according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the double piping structure (400b) of FIG. 7. In the example described above, it was explained that a first region (311) and a second region (312) are provided inside the first heat exchanger (310b). However, alternatively, the region inside the first heat exchanger (310b) may be provided as a single unit.

[0116] Additionally, the receiver dryer (315b) is connected to the first heat exchanger (310b) and the external space (500) of the first heat exchanger (310b). In one example, the external space (500) may be a heat exchanger. The receiver dryer (315b) is connected to the first heat exchanger (310b) to separate the liquid-gas of the refrigerant introduced from the refrigerant flow path and transfer it to the external space (500) of the first heat exchanger.

[0117] In one example, the double piping structure (400b) connects the first heat exchanger (310b) and the receiver dryer (315b), and also connects the receiver dryer (315b) and the external space (500). In one example, the double piping structure (400b) includes a first pipe (410b) and a second pipe (420b). The first pipe (410b) communicates with the refrigerant flow path inside the first heat exchanger (310b) and includes a first channel (411b) inside. The second pipe (420b) communicates with the receiver dryer (315b) and the external space (500) and includes a second channel (412b) inside.

[0118] In one example, either the first pipe (410b) or the second pipe (420b) is provided in a structure inserted into the inner side of the other. In one example, the second pipe (420b) is inserted into the first pipe (410b), and the first channel (411b) can be formed by a combination of the outer surface of the second pipe (420b) and the inner surface of the first pipe (410b).

[0119] Alternatively, the first pipe (410b) may be inserted into the second pipe (420b), and the second channel (412b) may be formed by a combination of the outer surface of the first pipe (410b) and the inner surface of the second pipe (420b).

[0120] In one example, the second pipe (420b) may be provided to communicate with the external space (500) across the interior of the first heat exchanger (310b). In one example, the external space (500) may be provided to face the receiver dryer (315b) centered on the first heat exchanger (310b).

[0121] In the example described above, each path has been given a name, but this is for the convenience of explanation only and does not imply that each path is formed as a separate entity. Each path may be formed as a separate entity and connected, or it may be formed by bending a single pipe.

[0122] The present invention provides an integrated heat exchanger comprising stacked plate heat exchangers. The heat exchanger offers the advantages of simplified packaging, optimized combination and arrangement of heat exchangers, simplified installation, and significantly improved space efficiency. Additionally, the integrated unit offers the advantages of increased ease of installation and maintenance, and reduced volume and weight of the entire system.

[0123] In addition, there is an advantage in that each heat exchanger can be combined to improve air conditioning and cooling performance.

[0124] In addition, in the integrated heat exchanger unit, each heat exchanger component can be connected through a single sealing system, which has the advantage of reducing the possibility of refrigerant leakage at the connection points.

[0125] In addition, the present invention provides a heat exchange limiting structure for an internal heat exchanger. It has the advantage of being able to derive optimal performance of the heat exchanger by appropriately adjusting the heat exchange performance of the internal heat exchanger.

[0126] In addition, the present invention provides a double-pipe structure for the connection between the receiver dryer and the heat exchanger, thereby having the effect of preventing the heat exchange area of ​​the heat exchanger from being reduced.

Claims

1. A first heat exchanger formed by stacking plate-shaped heat exchangers and having a refrigerant flowing inside; A receiver dryer communicating with the first heat exchanger and separating the gas and liquid of the refrigerant introduced from the first heat exchanger and transferring it back to the first heat exchanger; and It includes a refrigerant block connecting the first heat exchanger and the receiver dryer, The above refrigerant block is, A heat exchanger having a separation structure that separates the flow paths of the refrigerant flowing from the first heat exchanger to the receiver dryer and the refrigerant flowing out from the receiver dryer to the first heat exchanger.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above separation structure is, A first pipe through which refrigerant flowing from the first heat exchanger to the receiver dryer flows; A heat exchanger comprising a second pipe through which refrigerant flowing from the receiver dryer to the first heat exchanger flows.

3. In Paragraph 2, A heat exchanger provided with a structure in which either of the first pipe and the second pipe is inserted into the inner side of the other.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above-mentioned first heat exchanger is, A first refrigerant flow path for transferring refrigerant from the first heat exchanger to the receiver dryer; A second refrigerant flow path that receives refrigerant from the receiver dryer to the first heat exchanger; A first region in which the first refrigerant flow path is arranged internally and the refrigerant is condensed; The above-mentioned second refrigerant flow path is arranged internally and includes a second region where the refrigerant is subcooled, and The above-mentioned first pipe is in communication with the above-mentioned first area, and The above second pipe is a heat exchanger provided to communicate with the above second area.

5. In Paragraph 4, A first refrigerant inlet is formed on the upper side of the first region to introduce refrigerant into the first refrigerant flow path, and A heat exchanger having a first refrigerant outlet formed on the upper side of the second region to discharge refrigerant from the second refrigerant flow path to the outside of the first heat exchanger.

6. In Paragraph 4, When viewed from a first direction in which the above-mentioned plate-shaped heat exchangers are stacked, A heat exchanger arranged in the order of the receiver dryer, the first region, and the second region.

7. In Paragraph 4, When viewed from a first direction in which the above-mentioned plate-shaped heat exchangers are stacked, A heat exchanger arranged in the order of the receiver dryer, the second region, and the first region.

8. In Paragraph 2, The above-mentioned first pipe is, A heat exchanger provided to extend upward from the center of the lowest part of the above receiver dryer.

9. In Paragraph 2, The above second pipe is, A heat exchanger provided adjacent to the center of the lowest part of the above receiver dryer.

10. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a second heat exchanger that is in communication with and coupled to the first heat exchanger, and The above second heat exchanger is, A first temperature refrigerant path through which a first refrigerant of a first temperature introduced from the first heat exchanger flows; and It includes a second temperature refrigerant path through which a second refrigerant with a second temperature lower than a first temperature flows; and A heat exchanger in which the first temperature refrigerant path and the second temperature refrigerant path form a heat exchange section that is positioned adjacent to a location where heat exchange between the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant is possible in a portion of the section.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above second heat exchanger is, A first temperature refrigerant inlet is formed on one surface through which the first refrigerant from the first heat exchanger flows in, and A heat exchanger having a first temperature refrigerant outlet through which the first refrigerant flows out, a second temperature refrigerant inlet through which the second refrigerant flows in and out, and a second temperature refrigerant outlet formed on the other surface.

12. In Paragraph 10, A heat exchanger in which the heat exchange amount of the first heat exchanger is provided to be greater than the heat exchange amount of the second heat exchanger.

13. In Paragraph 12, Each of the stacked surfaces of the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger is provided to face each other with the same area, and A heat exchanger provided such that, in the direction in which the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are stacked, the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are provided with higher heights in that order.

14. In Paragraph 10, The above-mentioned first heat exchanger is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat with the first refrigerant at high temperature and high pressure and the cooling water, and The above second heat exchanger is a heat exchanger that is an internal heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the above first refrigerant and the second refrigerant of low temperature and low pressure.

15. In Paragraph 10, The first heat exchanger above is provided as a condenser that condenses the refrigerant into a low-temperature liquid state through heat exchange between the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant and the cooling water, and A heat exchanger in which the second heat exchanger is provided as a double heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between refrigerants in separate flow paths.

16. A first heat exchanger formed by stacking plate-shaped heat exchangers and having a refrigerant flowing inside; A receiver dryer communicating with the first heat exchanger and separating the gas and liquid of the refrigerant introduced from the first heat exchanger and transferring it to an external space; and It includes a refrigerant block connecting the first heat exchanger and the receiver dryer, The above refrigerant block is, A heat exchanger having a separation structure that separates the flow paths of the refrigerant flowing from the first heat exchanger to the receiver dryer and the refrigerant flowing out from the receiver dryer to the external space.

17. In Paragraph 16, The above separation structure is, A first pipe through which refrigerant flowing from the first heat exchanger to the receiver dryer flows; A heat exchanger comprising a second pipe through which refrigerant flowing from the receiver dryer to the external space flows.

18. In Paragraph 17, A heat exchanger provided with a structure in which either of the first pipe and the second pipe is inserted into the inner side of the other.

19. In Paragraph 17, The above second pipe is, A heat exchanger provided to communicate with the external space across the interior of the first heat exchanger.

20. In Paragraph 19, The above external space is, A heat exchanger provided to face the receiver dryer with the first heat exchanger as the center.

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