Integrated heat exchanger

Abstract

The present invention provides an integrated heat exchanger. In one embodiment, the integrated heat exchanger comprises a heat exchange unit provided as a single unit in which plate-shaped heat exchangers are stacked, the heat exchange unit comprising: a first heat exchanger; a second heat exchanger communicating with and coupled to the first heat exchanger, wherein the second heat exchanger may comprise: a first temperature refrigerant path through which a first refrigerant having a first temperature introduced from the first heat exchanger flows; a second temperature refrigerant path through which a second refrigerant having a second temperature flows; a heat exchange section provided to enable heat exchange between the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant between a virtual first plane through which the first temperature refrigerant path passes and a virtual second plane through which the second temperature refrigerant path passes; and a heat-exchange restriction structure provided on the first plane such that the second temperature refrigerant path does not pass through the first plane and provided on the second plane such that the first temperature refrigerant path does not pass through the second plane.

Description

Integrated heat exchanger

[0001] The present invention relates to an integrated heat exchanger mounted on an electric vehicle, and more specifically, to an integrated heat exchanger comprising an internal heat exchanger that exchanges heat between a high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant and a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant.

[0002] Electric vehicles require a compact design, and designs that allow for the modular assembly of various components are becoming increasingly important. In particular, when combining various in-vehicle components—especially those including heat exchangers—into a single package, optimization of placement, size, and connection methods is essential. This enables the maximization of vehicle space efficiency and promotes productivity and cost reduction.

[0003] However, problems that may arise at the connection points of these components are becoming a significant challenge that needs to be addressed. In particular, refrigerant leaks at pipe connections and sealing points can lead to system performance degradation and efficiency issues. This can cause consumer dissatisfaction and, furthermore, result in increased component replacement costs.

[0004] Furthermore, conventional heat exchanger systems generally improve cooling performance by facilitating heat exchange between high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerants and low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerants. However, excessive heat exchange performance can cause rapid changes in refrigerant temperature and pressure, negatively impacting system efficiency. Excessive heat exchange raises the compressor inlet temperature, which can lead to issues with compressor durability. Additionally, unnecessary heat exchange between refrigerants causes system imbalance, ultimately resulting in reduced compressor efficiency and system instability. Therefore, it is crucial to limit the heat exchanger's performance to an appropriate level to maintain system stability and efficiency.

[0005] Furthermore, refrigerant accumulation can occur in the flow paths located at the corners of the heat exchanger. When refrigerant accumulates in a specific area, the heat exchange efficiency of that region decreases, negatively impacting the cooling performance of the entire system. This refrigerant accumulation not only further degrades the performance of the heat exchanger but also hinders the flow of refrigerant, thereby reducing system efficiency. Consequently, smooth refrigerant circulation may not occur, leading to a decline in the overall performance of the heat exchanger.

[0006] The present invention was devised to solve the problems described above, and has one objective of providing an integrated heat exchanger that minimizes connections between parts and solves the problem of refrigerant leakage in the sealing part, thereby preventing performance degradation due to refrigerant leakage.

[0007] In addition, the present invention has one objective of providing an integrated heat exchanger that can prevent increased component replacement costs due to refrigerant leakage problems and improve system reliability.

[0008] In addition, the present invention has one objective of providing an integrated heat exchanger capable of maintaining the stability and efficiency of the system by limiting the performance of the internal heat exchanger to an appropriate level.

[0009] In addition, the present invention has one objective of providing an integrated heat exchanger with high thermal efficiency by preventing the accumulation of refrigerant in the corner portions within 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] An integrated heat exchanger is provided as a technical means for achieving the above-mentioned technical problem. In one embodiment, the integrated heat exchanger comprises a heat exchange section provided as a single unit in which plate-shaped heat exchangers are stacked, wherein the heat exchange section comprises: a first heat exchanger; and a second heat exchanger connected to and coupled with the first heat exchanger; and the second heat exchanger may include: a first temperature refrigerant path through which a first refrigerant of a first temperature introduced from the first heat exchanger flows; a second temperature refrigerant path through which a second refrigerant of a second temperature flows; a heat exchange section provided to enable heat exchange between the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant between a virtual first surface through which the first temperature refrigerant path passes and a virtual second surface through which the second temperature refrigerant path passes; and a heat exchange limiting structure provided on the first surface so that the second temperature refrigerant path does not pass through the first surface and provided on the second surface so that the first temperature refrigerant path does not pass through the second surface.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention as described above, there is an advantage of minimizing connections between parts and solving the problem of refrigerant leakage in the sealing part, thereby preventing performance degradation due to refrigerant leakage.

[0013] 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.

[0014] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of maintaining the stability and efficiency of the system by limiting the performance of the internal heat exchanger to an appropriate level.

[0015] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of increasing thermal efficiency by preventing the refrigerant from accumulating in a specific area.

[0016] 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.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an integrated heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger of FIG. 1 in the first direction (x).

[0019] Figure 3 is a pressure-enthalpy diagram of a heat exchanger.

[0020] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view in the first direction (x) showing the second heat exchanger and the third heat exchanger of FIG. 2.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view in the second direction (y) of a third heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIGS. 6a and FIGS. 6b are drawings showing a heat exchange limiting structure according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the heat exchange limiting structure of Figure 6a or Figure 6b.

[0024] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a bypass path according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an integrated heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger of FIG. 9 in the first direction (x).

[0027] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the second heat exchanger of FIG. 9 in the second direction (y).

[0028] An integrated heat exchanger is provided as a technical means for achieving the above-mentioned technical problem. In one embodiment, the integrated heat exchanger comprises a heat exchange section provided as a single unit in which plate-shaped heat exchangers are stacked, wherein the heat exchange section comprises: a first heat exchanger; and a second heat exchanger connected to and coupled with the first heat exchanger; and the second heat exchanger may include: a first temperature refrigerant path through which a first refrigerant of a first temperature introduced from the first heat exchanger flows; a second temperature refrigerant path through which a second refrigerant of a second temperature flows; a heat exchange section provided to enable heat exchange between the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant between a virtual first surface through which the first temperature refrigerant path passes and a virtual second surface through which the second temperature refrigerant path passes; and a heat exchange limiting structure provided on the first surface so that the second temperature refrigerant path does not pass through the first surface and provided on the second surface so that the first temperature refrigerant path does not pass through the second surface.

[0029] In one embodiment, the heat exchange limiting structure may be provided such that adjacent plates located on a first surface in an area corresponding to a second temperature refrigerant path come into contact with each other, and adjacent plates located on a second surface in an area corresponding to a first temperature refrigerant path come into contact with each other.

[0030] In one embodiment, the heat exchange limiting structure includes a first plate; and a second plate that is folded so that a portion of the portion contacts the first plate, and the first plate and the second plate may be provided alternately.

[0031] In one embodiment, the heat exchange limiting structure may include a block provided between adjacent plates located on a first surface in an area corresponding to a second temperature refrigerant path and between adjacent plates located on a second surface in an area corresponding to a first temperature refrigerant path.

[0032] In one embodiment, the first surface may be provided at a position corresponding to a second temperature refrigerant inlet through which the second refrigerant flows into the second heat exchanger, and the second surface may be provided at a position corresponding to a first temperature refrigerant outlet through which the refrigerant of the first temperature flows out of the second heat exchanger.

[0033] In one embodiment, the first temperature may be provided higher than the second temperature.

[0034] In one embodiment, the first temperature refrigerant path may be longer than the second temperature refrigerant path.

[0035] In one embodiment, when viewed from a first direction in which the plates are stacked, the first temperature refrigerant path and the second temperature refrigerant path may be provided in a diagonal direction.

[0036] In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a first plate and a second plate coupled to a heat exchanger with the heat exchanger in between, wherein the first plate is coupled to the first heat exchanger and has a first refrigerant inlet for introducing a first refrigerant into the first heat exchanger, a first cooling water inlet for flowing in and out of the first heat exchanger, and a first cooling water outlet formed therein, and the second plate is coupled to the second heat exchanger and has a second temperature refrigerant inlet and a second temperature refrigerant outlet for flowing in and out of the second heat exchanger, and a first refrigerant outlet for discharging the first refrigerant to the outside of the heat exchanger formed therein, and the second plate can be coupled to the second heat exchanger.

[0037] In one embodiment, the movement directions of the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant in the heat exchange section may be provided parallel.

[0038] In one embodiment, the movement directions of the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant in the heat exchange section may be provided in opposite directions.

[0039] In one embodiment, the heat exchanger further includes a third heat exchanger coupled to a second heat exchanger and supplying a second refrigerant to the second heat exchanger, and having a second refrigerant inlet and a second refrigerant outlet for the second refrigerant to flow in and out of the interior, and a first refrigerant outlet for the first refrigerant to flow out to the outside, and the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the third heat exchanger may be connected in series.

[0040] In one embodiment, the first surface may be provided at a position corresponding to the second refrigerant outlet, and the second surface may be provided at a position corresponding to the first refrigerant outlet.

[0041] In one embodiment, a bypass path may be further included to prevent heat exchange from occurring within the third heat exchanger when the refrigerant flows out from the third heat exchanger to the outside of the heat exchange section after passing through the heat exchange section.

[0042] In one embodiment, the heat exchange volume of the heat exchange section may be provided in the order of the first heat exchanger, the third heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger.

[0043] In one embodiment, the stacking surfaces of the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the third heat exchanger are each provided to face each other with the same area, and in the direction in which the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the third heat exchanger are stacked, the height may be provided in the order of the first heat exchanger, the third heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger.

[0044] In one embodiment, the apparatus further includes a first plate and a second plate coupled to a heat exchanger with the heat exchanger in between, wherein the first plate is coupled to the first heat exchanger and has a first refrigerant inlet for introducing a first refrigerant into the first heat exchanger, a first cooling water inlet for flowing in and out of the first heat exchanger, and a first cooling water outlet formed therein, and the second plate is coupled to the first heat exchanger and has a second refrigerant inlet and a second refrigerant outlet communicating with the first refrigerant inlet, and a second cooling water inlet and a second cooling water outlet formed therein for flowing in and out of the third heat exchanger, and the second plate can be coupled to the third heat exchanger.

[0045] In one embodiment, the first heat exchanger is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the first refrigerant on the high-temperature side and the cooling water, the third heat exchanger is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the second refrigerant on the low-temperature side and the cooling water, and the second heat exchanger may be an internal heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant.

[0046] 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 gaseous refrigerant on the high-temperature side and the cooling water, the second heat exchanger is provided as a double heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between refrigerants in separate flow paths, and the third heat exchanger can be provided as a chiller that lowers the temperature of the cooling water through heat exchange between the refrigerant on the low-temperature side and the cooling water.

[0047] 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.

[0048] Throughout this 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 "electrically connected" with other elements interposed between them.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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."

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] Below, the cross-sectional view of the integrated heat exchanger (1000) has been simplified to show the configuration excluding the internal fluid flow.

[0054]

[0055] [1st Example]

[0056] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an integrated 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 an integrated heat exchanger (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the integrated heat exchanger (1000) has a first plate (100), a second plate (200), a receiver dryer (315), and a heat exchanger (300). The first plate (100) and the second plate (200) form the outermost part of the integrated heat exchanger (1000), and a heat exchanger (300) is provided between them. The heat exchanger (300) includes a first heat exchanger (310), a second heat exchanger (320), and a third heat exchanger (330). The heat exchanger (300) is provided as a single unit.

[0058] In one example, the first heat exchanger (310) is a heat exchanger in which a first refrigerant of high temperature and high pressure exchanges heat with cooling water. In one example, the third heat exchanger (330) is a heat exchanger in which a second refrigerant of low temperature and low pressure exchanges heat with cooling water. In one example, the second heat exchanger (320) is an internal heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the refrigerants of the first heat exchanger (310) and the third heat exchanger (330). That is, the second heat exchanger (320) is an internal heat exchanger that exchanges heat between a first refrigerant of high temperature and high pressure and a second refrigerant of low temperature and low pressure.

[0059] In one example, the first heat exchanger (310) is a heat exchanger in which a refrigerant in a high-temperature, high-pressure state exchanges heat with cooling water. In the first heat exchanger (310), the refrigerant introduced 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 heat from 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.

[0060] The third heat exchanger (330) is a heat exchanger in which a refrigerant in a low-temperature, low-pressure state exchanges heat with the cooling water. In the third heat exchanger (330), the refrigerant in a low-temperature, low-pressure state absorbs heat through heat exchange with the cooling water, and the refrigerant vaporizes. As the refrigerant exchanges heat with the cooling water, the temperature of the refrigerant rises, and the temperature of the cooling water decreases. The main role of the third heat exchanger (330) is to vaporize the refrigerant and support the cooling water in effectively absorbing heat generated in the system so that the refrigerant can continue to be cooled. The third heat exchanger (330) plays an important role in increasing the cooling efficiency within the system.

[0061] The second heat exchanger (320) is an internal heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the refrigerants that have completed heat exchange in the first heat exchanger (310) and the third heat exchanger (330), respectively. Inside the second heat exchanger (320), the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant (refrigerant from the first heat exchanger (310)) and the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant (refrigerant from the third heat exchanger (330)) exchange heat with each other. The second heat exchanger (320) 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 (320) balances the temperature of the refrigerants and helps the efficient operation of the refrigerants within the system. Therefore, the second heat exchanger (320) 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.

[0062] In one example, the first heat exchanger (310) is provided as a water-cooled condenser. In one example, the second heat exchanger (320) is provided as a double heat exchanger. In one example, the third heat exchanger (330) is provided as a chiller. Alternatively, the third heat exchanger (330) may be provided as a water-cooled evaporator. In one example, the third heat exchanger (330) may be provided as either a chiller or a water-cooled evaporator, provided as a plurality of chillers, provided as a plurality of water-cooled evaporators, or provided as a combination of a chiller and a water-cooled evaporator.

[0063] In the first plate (100), a first refrigerant inlet (111) into which refrigerant flows, a first cooling water inlet (121) into which cooling water flows in and out, and a first cooling water outlet (122) are formed. 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).

[0064] In the second plate (200), a second refrigerant inlet (213), a third refrigerant inlet (215), a first refrigerant outlet (231), a second refrigerant outlet (212), and a second cooling water inlet (221) and a second cooling water outlet (222) through which cooling water flows in and out are formed. In one example, the second cooling water inlet (221) and the second cooling water outlet (222) are provided in an upward and downward direction relative to each other. If necessary, the second cooling water inlet (221) may be provided above the second cooling water outlet (222), or the second cooling water inlet (221) may be provided below the second cooling water outlet (222).

[0065] In one example, the integrated heat exchanger (1000) 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] The first heat exchanger (310), the second heat exchanger (320), and the third heat exchanger (330) 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.

[0068] 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 (300) is formed as a single unit. In one example, the first heat exchanger (310), the second heat exchanger (320), and the third heat exchanger (330) are all provided as a single unit in which multiple plates of the same shape are stacked.

[0069] When the integrated heat exchanger (1000) is provided as a single unit in which each heat exchanger (300) is integrated into a plate-shaped structure, the vertical and horizontal arrangement of the heat exchange system (2000) within the vehicle is possible, thereby greatly improving space efficiency. In addition, 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 it is easy to inspect and repair sealing parts to resolve leakage or refrigerant leakage issues.

[0070] In one example, the heat exchanger (300) may be manufactured by brazing. Alternatively, the heat exchanger (300) may be joined by welding, bonding, clamping, snap-fit, etc.

[0071] In one example, the first heat exchanger (310), the second heat exchanger (320), and the third heat exchanger (330) are connected in series with each other.

[0072] In one example, the first heat exchanger (310) and the third heat exchanger (330) are positioned at the outermost edge, and the second heat exchanger (320) is positioned between the first heat exchanger (310) and the third heat exchanger (330). However, alternatively, the first heat exchanger (310) and the second heat exchanger (320) may be positioned at the outermost edge, and the third heat exchanger (330) may be positioned between the first heat exchanger (310) and the second heat exchanger (320).

[0073] Primary cooling is performed in the first heat exchanger (310), and then cooling is completed through the second heat exchanger (320) and the third heat exchanger (330). The plates provided in the integrated heat exchanger (1000) are designed to be joined together, but each heat exchanger (300) can operate independently within the system.

[0074] In one example, the heat exchange volume of the heat exchanger (300) is provided in the order of the first heat exchanger (310), the third heat exchanger (330), and the second heat exchanger (320). In one example, the size of the heat exchanger (300) is provided in the order of the first heat exchanger (310), the third heat exchanger (330), and the second heat exchanger (320). For example, the volume and total cross-sectional area are provided in the order of the first heat exchanger (310), the third heat exchanger (330), and the second heat exchanger (320).

[0075] The stacked surfaces of the first heat exchanger (310), the second heat exchanger (320), and the third heat exchanger (330) are each provided to face each other with the same area. In one example, the stacked surfaces of the first heat exchanger (310), the second heat exchanger (320), and the third heat exchanger (330) are all provided to have the same shape and cross-sectional area. In the direction in which the first heat exchanger (310), the second heat exchanger (320), and the third heat exchanger (330) are stacked, the height may be provided in the order of the first heat exchanger (310), the third heat exchanger (320), and the second heat exchanger (330).

[0076] The first heat exchanger (310) is formed with the largest volume and total cross-sectional area to efficiently release a large amount of heat. The third heat exchanger (330) primarily performs the role of removing a large amount of heat through heat exchange between the coolant and the refrigerant. Since the coolant carries a large amount of heat and requires a relatively large heat exchange surface area to cool it efficiently, and the third heat exchanger (330) is designed to handle the main heat source within the vehicle, a high heat exchange capacity is required. Accordingly, the size of the third heat exchanger (330) may be larger than that of the second heat exchanger (320). The second heat exchanger (320) is responsible for heat exchange between the refrigerants and is provided with the smallest size among the three heat exchangers because the heat load is relatively low. This is because, although precision and uniformity are important for heat exchange between the refrigerants in the second heat exchanger (320), a small surface area is sufficient since it does not handle a large amount of heat like the heat exchange between the coolant and the refrigerant.

[0077] 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 (310), the second heat exchanger (320), and the third heat exchanger (330) are all provided with the same size and shape. Accordingly, the installation space of the integrated heat exchanger (1000) can be minimized, thereby reducing the size of the entire system and maximizing space efficiency while maintaining structural stability.

[0078] Hereinafter, the 'path' may be provided as a space formed by a combination of pipes capable of forming a flow path for cooling water or refrigerant, or a stacked surface of a plate heat exchanger.

[0079] In one embodiment, the 'path' is a space formed by a combination of the stacked surfaces of a plate heat exchanger. The arrows shown in the drawings are intended to indicate the direction of fluid movement and do not imply a space or area through which the fluid flows. Furthermore, the terms "folded" or "U-shaped" are intended to describe the fluid flow or direction, and do not imply that the fluid is supplied to a pipe of this shape.

[0080] In one example, the first heat exchanger (310) is provided as a water-cooled condenser. In the first heat exchanger (310), the refrigerant releases heat and condenses. The first heat exchanger (310) changes the state of the refrigerant through heat exchange between the refrigerant and the cooling water, and the refrigerant undergoes physical changes of superheat removal, condensation, and subcooling in a specific area.

[0081] Cooling water flows in and out of the first heat exchanger (310) through the first cooling water inlet (121) and the first cooling water outlet (122), and a first refrigerant at a first temperature flows into the first heat exchanger (310) through the first refrigerant inlet (111). In one example, the first temperature is provided at a temperature relatively higher than the second temperature of the second refrigerant described later. In one example, the first refrigerant inlet (111) may be located at a position corresponding to the upper part. Alternatively, the first refrigerant inlet (111) may be provided at another location on the first plate (100) as needed.

[0082] Cooling water flows inside the first heat exchanger (310) by the force of a pump or the like and performs heat exchange with the refrigerant. The refrigerant moves from top to bottom inside the first heat exchanger (310). Since the refrigerant moves downward along gravity, the energy required for the refrigerant flow is minimized. In one example, the first cooling water inlet (121) and the first cooling water outlet (122) are arranged so that the direction of movement of the cooling water and the refrigerant are opposite, thereby allowing counter-flow heat exchange between the cooling water and the refrigerant. Alternatively, the direction of movement of the cooling water and the refrigerant may be arranged parallel to allow for parallel-flow heat exchange between the cooling water and the refrigerant.

[0083] The first heat exchanger (310) includes a first cooling water path (314) and a first refrigerant path (313).

[0084] The first cooling water path (314) forms a cooling water flow path connecting the first cooling water inlet (121) and the first cooling water outlet (122). In one example, the first cooling water inlet (121) and the first cooling water outlet (122) are formed on one side of the first heat exchanger (310), and the cooling water flowing in through the first cooling water inlet (121) extends to an area adjacent to the other side facing the first heat exchanger (310). Subsequently, the first cooling water path (314) is bent at the corner of the other side and extends in a straight line to the facing corner. Subsequently, the first cooling water path (314) is bent to follow the inner circumference of the first heat exchanger (310) and discharged to the outside of the heat exchanger (300) through the first cooling water outlet (122).

[0085] The first refrigerant path (313) forms a refrigerant flow path connecting the first refrigerant inlet (111) and the second heat exchanger (320). In one example, the first heat exchanger (310) is connected to a receiver dryer (315). In one example, the first refrigerant path (313) may have a shape that is bent in multiple areas so as to form a path for the refrigerant to return from the first heat exchanger (310) through the receiver dryer (315) back to the first heat exchanger (310). In one example, the first refrigerant path (313) is located adjacent to the first cooling water path (314) and is arranged along the inner and outer edges of the first cooling water path (314). The first refrigerant path (313) and the first cooling water path (314) are adjacent, and the first refrigerant path (313) is provided to surround the first cooling water path (314) so ​​that heat exchange between the refrigerant and the cooling water is facilitated.

[0086] Superheat removal and condensation of the first refrigerant at high temperature and high pressure are performed by the first refrigerant path (313) within the first heat exchanger (310). In one example, subcooling of the first refrigerant is additionally performed within the first heat exchanger (310). In the receiver dryer (315), gas-liquid separation of the first refrigerant is performed and foreign substances are removed. In one example, the receiver dryer (315) may not be provided as necessary.

[0087] In the first heat exchanger (310), 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.

[0088] The refrigerant that has passed through a portion of the first heat exchanger (310) flows into the receiver dryer (315). In one example, the first refrigerant flows into the upper part of the first heat exchanger (310) through the first refrigerant inlet (111), and the first heat exchanger (310) and the receiver dryer (315) are connected at the lower part of the first heat exchanger (310).

[0089] In one example, the receiver dryer (315) may be provided in a structure that is separable from the first heat exchanger (310). Alternatively, the receiver dryer (315) may be provided integrally with the first heat exchanger (310). In one example, the receiver dryer (315) may be mounted on the first plate (100) to communicate with the first heat exchanger (310). 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 heat exchanger (320).

[0090] In one example, the receiver dryer (315) may include a desiccant and a filter. The refrigerant introduced into the receiver dryer (315) has moisture removed by the desiccant and the like, and impurities removed by the filter.

[0091] The refrigerant that has passed through the receiver dryer (315) flows back into the first heat exchanger (310) through the lower part of the first heat exchanger (310). Inside the first heat exchanger (310), the refrigerant moves upward, 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. Afterward, the first refrigerant flows into the second heat exchanger (320).

[0092] Inside the second heat exchanger (320) and the third heat exchanger (330), a second refrigerant path (323), a third refrigerant path (335), and a fourth refrigerant path (337) are provided.

[0093] The third heat exchanger (330) is connected to the second refrigerant inlet (213), the third refrigerant inlet (215), the first refrigerant outlet (231), the second refrigerant outlet (212), and the second cooling water inlet (221) and second cooling water outlet (222) through which cooling water flows in and out. In one example, the path of the cooling water flowing in and out through the second cooling water inlet (221) and the second cooling water outlet (222) is provided within the third heat exchanger (330). For example, the cooling water flows within the third heat exchanger (330) and does not flow into the second heat exchanger (320).

[0094] In one example, the second refrigerant inlet (213) is connected to either the first evaporator (not shown) or the second evaporator (not shown) described later, the third refrigerant inlet (213) is connected to the other of the first evaporator (not shown) or the second evaporator (not shown) described later, and the second refrigerant outlet (212) is connected to a compressor. In one example, the first refrigerant outlet (231) is in communication with a thermal expansion valve. Additionally, the second cooling water inlet (221) and the second cooling water outlet (222) are in communication with a reservoir in which cooling water is stored, described later.

[0095] In one example, the second refrigerant path (323) is a path connecting the first heat exchanger (310) and the first refrigerant outlet (231), provided so that the first refrigerant, which is at a high temperature and high pressure, can exchange heat through the second heat exchanger (320) and the third heat exchanger (330). In one example, the second refrigerant path (323) extends from one side of the first heat exchanger (310) across the second heat exchanger (320) and the third heat exchanger (330) to the outside of the heat exchange section (300). For example, the second refrigerant path (323) is connected to the first refrigerant path (313).

[0096] In one example, the second refrigerant path (323) is connected to the first heat exchanger (310), and one side of the path extends from the upper part of the first heat exchanger (310) to the second heat exchanger (320). Inside the second heat exchanger (320), the path is bent downwards and extends downwards, and is bent again to finally lead to the first refrigerant outlet (231) formed in the third heat exchanger (330).

[0097] After the first refrigerant, which is of high temperature and high pressure, releases heat in the first heat exchanger (310) and condenses into a liquid, it moves to the second heat exchanger (320) through the second refrigerant path (323). In the second heat exchanger (320), heat exchange between the refrigerants takes place, and the first refrigerant, which is of high temperature, releases heat to the second refrigerant, which is of low temperature, while the second refrigerant, which is of low temperature, absorbs heat and its temperature rises. In this process, the first refrigerant, which is of high temperature and high pressure, lowers its temperature as it passes through the second heat exchanger (320), and the second refrigerant, which is of low temperature, absorbs heat and its temperature rises. Afterward, the second refrigerant path (323) leads to the third heat exchanger (330).

[0098] In one example, a third refrigerant path (335) is provided to connect a second refrigerant inlet (213) and a second refrigerant outlet (212), and a second refrigerant at low temperature and low pressure exchanges heat as it passes through a third heat exchanger (330) and a second heat exchanger (320). The second refrigerant inlet (213) supplies refrigerant into the third heat exchanger (330) from a first evaporator (not shown) or a second evaporator (not shown). In one example, the second refrigerant inlet (213) may be connected to a first evaporator (not shown).

[0099] The second refrigerant introduced through the second refrigerant inlet (213) is a gaseous refrigerant in a low-pressure, low-temperature state, and is introduced into the third heat exchanger (330) in a vaporized state after absorbing heat in the first evaporator (not shown).

[0100] In one example, the third refrigerant path (335) extends in a straight line from the bottom of the third heat exchanger (330) to one side of the second heat exchanger (320), and from the said side of the second heat exchanger (320), the path bends upward and extends upward, and then bends again to finally lead to the second refrigerant outlet (212) formed in the third heat exchanger (330). The refrigerant exiting through the second refrigerant outlet (212) is delivered to the compressor. In one example, an expansion device may be provided at the downstream end of the first refrigerant outlet (231).

[0101] The third heat exchanger (330) is a device that performs heat exchange between the cooling water and the second refrigerant and is responsible for lowering the temperature of the cooling water within the system. To this end, the third heat exchanger (330) is provided with a second cooling water path (334) through which cooling water flows inside, through a second cooling water inlet (221) and a second cooling water outlet (222) through which cooling water flows in and out. In one example, the second cooling water path (334) is provided within the third heat exchanger (330) but not within the second heat exchanger (320).

[0102] In one example, the fourth refrigerant path (337) is provided to connect the third refrigerant inlet (215) and the third refrigerant path (335). That is, the refrigerant introduced into the third heat exchanger (330) through the third refrigerant inlet (215) is combined with the third refrigerant path (335) through the fourth refrigerant path (337). The third refrigerant inlet (215) supplies refrigerant into the third heat exchanger (330) from the first evaporator (not shown) or the second evaporator (not shown), which will be described later. In one example, the third refrigerant inlet (215) may be connected to the second evaporator (not shown). The refrigerant introduced through the third refrigerant inlet (215) is an ideal refrigerant in a low-pressure, low-temperature state, and the refrigerant that has absorbed heat in the second evaporator (not shown) and then vaporized is introduced into the third heat exchanger (330).

[0103] A second evaporator (not shown) may be an additional evaporator provided to distribute the load of a first evaporator (not shown). In one example, the second evaporator (not shown) may be connected in parallel or in series with a third heat exchanger (330). In one example, the second evaporator (not shown) may be additionally installed between the first evaporator (not shown) and the third heat exchanger (330) or in a separate section of the third heat exchanger (330). This allows for more flexible control of the refrigerant flow and enables the appropriate supply of the cooling capacity required by the system.

[0104] In one example, the fourth refrigerant path (337) is formed by the refrigerant introduced through the third refrigerant inlet (215) located above the third heat exchanger (330) and is connected in a straight line, and the path is bent at one side of the third heat exchanger (330) and connected to the third refrigerant path (335) by being connected downward.

[0105] In the third heat exchanger (330), heat exchange between the cooling water and the second refrigerant takes place. The second refrigerant, which is at a low temperature and low pressure, absorbs heat from the cooling water, and the cooling water releases heat to raise the temperature of the refrigerant. During this process, the refrigerant vaporizes, and as its temperature rises, it moves to the second heat exchanger (320). In the third refrigerant path (335) and the fourth refrigerant path (337), the refrigerant vaporizes and the temperature of the refrigerant is properly managed through heat exchange with the cooling water. That is, the cooling water flowing inside the third heat exchanger (330) helps the process of raising the temperature of the refrigerant and vaporizing it in the third refrigerant path (335) and the fourth refrigerant path (337) to facilitate heat exchange in the second heat exchanger (320).

[0106] In one example, the junction point of the third refrigerant path (335) and the fourth refrigerant path (337) may be provided within the section where the third refrigerant path (335) extends in a straight line from the bottom of the third heat exchanger (330) to one side of the second heat exchanger (320). In one example, the junction point of the third refrigerant path (335) and the fourth refrigerant path (337) may be provided at the front end of the heat exchange section (E) between the second refrigerant path (323) and the third refrigerant path (335). That is, the third refrigerant path (335) and the second refrigerant path (323) are provided to perform heat exchange after the refrigerants of the third refrigerant path (335) and the fourth refrigerant path (337) are joined.

[0107] Depending on the needs, the second evaporator (not shown) and the fourth refrigerant path (337) may not be provided.

[0108] In one example, heat exchange occurs between the refrigerant flowing in the second refrigerant path (323) and the refrigerant flowing in the third refrigerant path (335) within the second heat exchanger (320). To this end, the second refrigerant path (323) and the third refrigerant path (335) are provided so that some areas overlap. For example, the section where the second refrigerant path (323) and the third refrigerant path (335) overlap is the heat exchange section (E). Here, the meaning of overlap is that when viewed from one direction, the second refrigerant path (323) and the third refrigerant path (335) overlap, but the refrigerant provided in each second refrigerant path (323) and the refrigerant provided in the third refrigerant path (335) are not mixed. It means that the two paths are placed adjacent to each other and are positioned at a distance where heat exchange can occur between them.

[0109] In one example, the flow directions of the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant in the heat exchange section (E) may be provided to be the same. That is, the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant may exchange heat while forming parallel flow. Alternatively, the flow directions of the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant in the heat exchange section (E) may be provided to be opposite. That is, the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant may exchange heat while forming counter-flow.

[0110] In one example, a heat exchange limiting structure is provided within the heat exchanger (300). The heat exchange limiting structure is provided to prevent unnecessary heat exchange.

[0111] In one example, the heat exchange limiting structure is a structure that limits the amount of heat exchange between the first refrigerant at high temperature and high pressure and the second refrigerant at low temperature and low pressure within the second heat exchanger (320).

[0112] Figure 3 is a pressure-enthalpy diagram of a heat exchanger. In Figure 3, the refrigerant is R1234yf. This is the trademark name for the chemical HFO-1234yf, a fluorocarbon compound used as a refrigerant, which is primarily used in automotive air conditioning systems.

[0113] In one example, the second heat exchanger (320) is called an internal heat exchanger (IHX). FIG. 3 shows sections of the high pressure / high temperature side and the low pressure / low temperature side. The high pressure / high temperature side is connected to the compressor outlet, and the low pressure / low temperature side is connected to the compressor inlet.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 3, it can be seen that the system provided with an internal heat exchanger has improved cooling performance compared to the existing system. The role of the second heat exchanger (320) is to improve cooling performance by increasing the enthalpy difference of the evaporator through heat exchange between the high-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant that has passed through the condenser and the low-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant that has passed through the evaporator.

[0115] In terms of performance, if the performance of the second heat exchanger (320) is excessive, the compressor inlet temperature increases, causing the compressor discharge temperature to rise, which may result in problems with the compressor's durability. Therefore, it is important for the second heat exchanger (320) to maintain an appropriate level of performance. The heat exchange limiting structure enables the performance of the second heat exchanger (320) to be maintained at an appropriate level.

[0116] In one example, the heat exchange limiting structure controls the length of the heat exchange section (E) between the second refrigerant path (323) and the third refrigerant path (335) within the second heat exchanger (320).

[0117] FIG. 4 is a first direction (x) cross-sectional view showing the second heat exchanger (320) and the third heat exchanger (330) of FIG. 2.

[0118] In one example, the second heat exchanger (320) includes a first temperature refrigerant path (3201) through which a first refrigerant of a first temperature introduced from the first heat exchanger (310) flows, and a second temperature refrigerant path (3202) 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.

[0119] In one example, the first temperature refrigerant path (3201) constitutes part or all of the second temperature refrigerant path (323), and the second temperature refrigerant path (3202) constitutes part or all of the third refrigerant path (335).

[0120] In one example, the first temperature refrigerant path (3201) is a path located within the second heat exchanger (320) of the second temperature refrigerant path (323), and the second temperature refrigerant path (3202) is a path located within the second heat exchanger (320) of the third refrigerant path (335).

[0121] The first temperature refrigerant path (3201) and the second temperature refrigerant path (3202) 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.

[0122] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view in the first direction (x) of a second heat exchanger (320) and a third heat exchanger (330) according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view in the second direction (y) of a third heat exchanger (330) according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6a and FIG. 6b are cross-sectional views in the first direction (x) of a second heat exchanger (320) and a third heat exchanger (330) according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively. FIG. 6a shows a heat exchange limiting structure (600) formed on a second surface (S2), and FIG. 6b shows a heat exchange limiting structure (600) formed on a first surface (S1).

[0123] In one example, a second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212) and a second temperature refrigerant outlet (3211) for inleting and outleting a second refrigerant into a second heat exchanger (320) are provided at a height corresponding to the second refrigerant inlet (213) and the second refrigerant outlet (212), respectively. For example, when the direction in which the plates of the heat exchanger (300) are stacked is referred to as the first direction (X) (see FIG. 1), when looking at the second plate (200) from the first direction (X), the positions of the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212) and the second refrigerant inlet (213) coincide, and the positions of the second temperature refrigerant outlet (3211) and the second refrigerant outlet (212) coincide.

[0124] In one example, a heat exchange limiting structure (600) is provided within the second heat exchanger. In one example, the length (EL) of the heat exchange section is determined by the position of the heat exchange limiting structure (600).

[0125] Alternatively, the length (EL) of the heat exchange section is determined by the interval corresponding to the height difference between the first temperature refrigerant outlet (231) through which the second refrigerant flows in from the third heat exchanger (330) and the second temperature refrigerant outlet (3211) through which the second temperature refrigerant flows out. In one example, the length is measured as the interval (height) between lines extending from the center of each inlet and outlet. For example, the length (EL) of the heat exchange section can be determined by the distance (height difference) between a straight line in the y direction passing through the center of the first temperature refrigerant outlet (231) and a straight line in the y direction passing through the center of the second temperature refrigerant outlet (3211).

[0126] In one example, the heat exchange limiting structure (600) may be provided at a location corresponding to the first temperature refrigerant outlet (231) and the second temperature refrigerant outlet (3211) through which the second temperature refrigerant is discharged. Alternatively, the locations of the heat exchange limiting structure (600), the first temperature refrigerant outlet (231), and the second temperature refrigerant outlet (3211) through which the second temperature refrigerant is discharged may not correspond.

[0127] In one example, a heat exchange limiting structure (600) is provided on a virtual first surface (S1) and a second surface (S2) (see FIG. 4 and FIG. 6a). For example, the first surface (S1) and the second surface (S2) are provided on the XY plane of FIG. 1. In one example, the virtual first surface (S1) and the second surface (S2) are provided to face each other within a second heat exchanger. For example, the first surface (S1) and the second surface (S2) are surfaces provided in a direction perpendicular to the surface on which the plate-shaped heat exchangers are stacked. In one example, a heat exchange section (E) is defined between the first surface (S1) and the second surface (S2).

[0128] In one example, a heat exchange limiting structure (600) is provided on the first surface (S1) so that the second temperature refrigerant path (3202) does not pass through the first surface (S1), and is also provided on the second surface (S2) so that the first temperature refrigerant path (3201) does not pass through the second surface (S2). This is to ensure that the first temperature refrigerant path (3201) and the second temperature refrigerant path (3202) flow through the heat exchange section (E) without accumulating in areas such as corners or edges within the heat exchange section (300).

[0129] In one example, the first surface (S1) may correspond to the second refrigerant outlet (212), and the second surface (S2) may correspond to the first refrigerant outlet (231). In one example, when the first temperature refrigerant path is directed downward within the second heat exchanger (320), the first surface (S1) is provided to correspond to the bottom of the first refrigerant outlet (231). In one example, when the second temperature refrigerant path is directed upward within the second heat exchanger (320), the second surface (S2) is provided to correspond to the top of the second refrigerant outlet (212). This is to allow each refrigerant to flow smoothly along the refrigerant path to each outlet.

[0130] The refrigerant on the high-temperature side flows along the second refrigerant path (323) through the first heat exchanger (310), the second heat exchanger (320), and the third heat exchanger (330) to the outside of the heat exchange section (300). Referring to FIG. 6a, the refrigerant on the high-temperature side is not flowed downward below the second surface (S2) by the heat exchange limiting structure (600) and is discharged through the first refrigerant outlet (231).

[0131] Additionally, the refrigerant on the low-temperature side flows along the third refrigerant path (335), starting from the third heat exchanger (330), passing through the second heat exchanger (320), and returning to the third heat exchanger (330) to flow outside the heat exchange section (300). Referring to FIG. 6b, the refrigerant on the low-temperature side is not flowed upward above the first surface (S1) by the heat exchange limiting structure (600) and is discharged through the second refrigerant outlet (212).

[0132] In one example, the heat exchange limiting structure (600) is provided such that adjacent plates located on the first surface (S1) in the area corresponding to the second temperature refrigerant path (3202) are in contact with each other, and adjacent plates located on the second surface (S2) in the area corresponding to the first temperature refrigerant path (3201) are in contact with each other.

[0133] FIG. 7 shows the appearance of a heat exchange limiting structure (600) according to one embodiment of the present invention. In one example, the heat exchange limiting structure (600) includes a first plate (601) and a second plate (602) provided alternately. The first plate (601) is provided flat, and the second plate (602) is folded so that a portion of it contacts the first plate (601). The second plate (602) is folded so that it contacts the first plate (601) to prevent the flow of refrigerant.

[0134] Alternatively, the heat exchange limiting structure (600) may include a block provided between adjacent plates located on the first surface (S1) in an area corresponding to the second temperature refrigerant path (3202) and between adjacent plates located on the second surface (S2) in an area corresponding to the first temperature refrigerant path (3201).

[0135] In one example, the heat exchange limiting structure (600) includes a bypass path (L). The bypass path (L) is provided so that when the refrigerant flowing into the third heat exchanger (330) through the second heat exchanger (320) exits the third heat exchanger (330) and flows out to the outside, it does not undergo heat exchange within the third heat exchanger (330). That is, the bypass path (L) is provided so that the refrigerant passing through the heat exchange section (E) within the second heat exchanger (320) does not undergo heat exchange within the third heat exchanger (330).

[0136] In one example, the bypass channel includes a first bypass channel (L1) and a second bypass channel (L2) (see FIG. 6b). FIG. 8 shows the shape of a bypass channel (L) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0137] The first bypass path (L1) is intended to prevent the refrigerant inside the second refrigerant path (323) provided within the third heat exchanger (330) from exchanging heat with the outside of the second refrigerant path (323).

[0138] High temperature and high pressure refrigerant flows from the first heat exchanger (310) to the second heat exchanger (320) through the first refrigerant path (313), flows from the second heat exchanger (320) to the third heat exchanger (330) through the second refrigerant path (323), and exits to the outside of the heat exchange section (300) through the first refrigerant outlet (231).

[0139] At this time, a bypass structure is applied to the second refrigerant path (323) located within the third heat exchanger (330) to avoid heat exchange. As shown in FIG. 8, through holes (H) formed in plates (101, 101') placed facing each other are continuously formed at corresponding positions to form the second refrigerant path (323). Then, in the area where the bypass path (L1) is to be formed, the plates (101, 101') are bent so as to come into contact around the through holes (H) so that the through holes (H) are sealed.

[0140] For example, one of the plates (101, 101') placed facing each other is called the first plate (101) and the other plate is called the second plate (101').

[0141] The first plate (101) has a first bend portion (1010) at one end that is bent, and the first bend portion (1010) is bent at a first point (1011) and a second point (1012). In one example, the first bend portion (1010) is bent in a direction perpendicular to the first plate (101) at the first point (1011) and then bent again in a direction parallel to the first plate (101) at the second point (1012).

[0142] The second plate (101') has a second bend (1010') at a position corresponding to the first bend (1010) of the first plate (101), and the second bend (1010') is bent at a second-1 point (1011'), a second-2 point (1012'), a second-3 point (1013'), and a second-4 point (1014'). In one example, the second bend (1010') contacts the first bend (1010) in the area connecting the second-2 point (1012') and the second-3 point (1013'). The end of the first bend (1010) and the end of the second bend (1010') are provided to contact each other for a predetermined length. The end of the first bend (1010) and the end of the second bend (1010') come into contact to form the edge of the through hole (H), and the area connecting the second-2 point (1012') and the second-3 point (1013') of the second bend (1010') comes into contact with the first bend (1010), thereby forming an contact area between the first plate and the second plate. In the contact area, the two plates are in contact with each other, forming a bypass structure that restricts the path through which the refrigerant passes to avoid heat exchange. As a result, a path is created that allows the second refrigerant path (323) to flow within the third heat exchanger (330) without heat exchange.

[0143] In the example described above, adjacent plates (101, 101') are bent to meet at the outside of the through hole (H) to form a bypass channel (L). However, alternatively, a different structure may be applied that can prevent the outflow of fluid within the through hole (H) by placing it between adjacent plates (101, 101') in the perimeter area of ​​the through hole (H). For example, a structure may be inserted between adjacent plates (101, 101') in the perimeter area of ​​the through hole (H). Alternatively, one of the adjacent plates (101, 101') may be provided with a shape such as having an embossing structure so that the adjacent plates (101, 101') meet at the perimeter of the through hole (H).

[0144] In one example, the first bypass path (L1) may be formed over the entire area of ​​the second refrigerant path (323) provided within the third heat exchanger (330). Alternatively, it may be formed over a portion of the second refrigerant path (323) provided within the third heat exchanger (330).

[0145] The first bypass path (L1) prevents the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant from undergoing unnecessary heat exchange, thereby managing the refrigerant's temperature so that it does not drop unnecessarily. It is highly likely that the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant has already released a significant amount of heat and is in a condensed state in the first heat exchanger (310). Therefore, since the refrigerant's temperature adjustment is already complete, there may be no need to further absorb or release heat from the refrigerant.

[0146] The second bypass path (L2) is intended to prevent heat exchange between the refrigerant inside the third refrigerant path (335) provided within the third heat exchanger (330) and the outside of the third refrigerant path (335).

[0147] The low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant introduced into the third heat exchanger (330) flows into the second heat exchanger (320) through the third refrigerant path (335) to exchange heat with the second refrigerant path (323), and then flows back into the third heat exchanger (330) and exits to the outside of the heat exchange section (300) through the second refrigerant outlet (212).

[0148] At this time, a bypass structure is applied to avoid heat exchange in the area past the heat exchange section (E) between the second refrigerant path (323) and the third refrigerant path (335) within the third heat exchanger (330).

[0149] For example, forming a third refrigerant path (335) within a third heat exchanger (330) may be the same as the structure of FIG. 8 described above.

[0150] In one example, the second bypass path (L2) may be formed over the entire area of ​​the third refrigerant path (335) provided within the third heat exchanger (330). Alternatively, it may be formed over a portion of the third refrigerant path (35) provided within the third heat exchanger (330).

[0151] The second bypass path (L2) prevents the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant from undergoing unnecessary heat exchange, thereby managing the refrigerant temperature to prevent it from rising excessively. This increases system efficiency and optimizes overall cooling performance.

[0152] The refrigerant passing through the heat exchange section (E) enters the bypass path (L) by means of the heat exchange limiting structure (600). Accordingly, this has the effect of preventing the accumulation of refrigerant and preventing unnecessary heat exchange.

[0153] The present invention prevents excessive heat exchange by appropriately limiting the length (EL) of the heat exchange section, thereby preventing a rise in the temperature of the refrigerant or excessive vaporization. If the length (EL) of the heat exchange section becomes too long, the temperature difference between the refrigerants may be excessively reduced, which may result in inefficient heat exchange. Conversely, if the heat exchange section (E) is too short, the temperature difference of the refrigerants cannot be fully utilized, which may lead to a decrease in performance. Accordingly, to achieve the desired cooling performance, the length of the second temperature refrigerant path (3202) is adjusted by controlling the distance between the second refrigerant inlet (213) and the second refrigerant outlet (212) when arranging the second refrigerant inlet (213) and the second refrigerant outlet (212). Accordingly, the length of the heat exchange section (E) is adjusted to achieve appropriate cooling performance.

[0154] In one example, within the second heat exchanger (320), the path of the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant may be provided longer than the path of the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant. In one example, outside the heat exchange section (E), the path of the first refrigerant may be provided longer than the path of the second refrigerant. For instance, the first temperature refrigerant path (3201) is provided longer than the second temperature refrigerant path (3202). This is because the second refrigerant, which has a lower temperature, is more likely to experience a greater pressure drop compared to the first refrigerant. As the second refrigerant enters the compressor inlet in a low-temperature, low-pressure state, if the length of the path is increased, the pressure of the second refrigerant becomes even lower, which may reduce the suction efficiency of the second refrigerant. That is, if the length of the second temperature refrigerant path (3202) is increased, the temperature and pressure of the second refrigerant decrease, causing a greater pressure drop and potentially reducing cooling performance. Accordingly, the path of the first refrigerant, which is relatively high temperature and high pressure, is provided to be longer than the path of the second refrigerant, which is relatively low temperature and low pressure.

[0155] In addition, within the heat exchange limiting structure (600), the flow of refrigerant is prevented, thereby preventing the refrigerant from accumulating in any space within the heat exchanger. By preventing accumulation, the refrigerant can flow smoothly within the heat exchanger, thereby maintaining efficient heat exchange continuously. Furthermore, by preventing fluid accumulation, unnecessary pressure rise is prevented, and the overall performance of the heat exchanger can be improved. These structural characteristics increase the efficiency of the heat exchanger and enable stable operation over a long period.

[0156]

[0157] [2nd Example]

[0158]

[0159] In the example described above, it was explained that a first heat exchanger (310), a second heat exchanger (320), and a third heat exchanger (330) are provided in the heat exchange section (300). However, alternatively, only the first heat exchanger (310a) and the second heat exchanger (320a) may be provided in the heat exchange section (300a).

[0160] Hereinafter, a second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11. FIGS. 9 to 11 show the appearance of an integrated heat exchanger (1000a) according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an integrated heat exchanger (1000a) according to a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view in the first direction (x) of the heat exchanger (300a) of FIG. 9, and FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view in the second direction (y) of the second heat exchanger (320a) of FIG. 9.

[0161] In one example, the heat exchanger (300a) includes a first heat exchanger (310a) and a second heat exchanger (320a). The first heat exchanger (310a) and the second heat exchanger (320a) correspond to the first heat exchanger (310) and the second heat exchanger (320) described above, respectively.

[0162] 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.

[0163] 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.

[0164] In one example, the integrated heat exchanger includes a first plate (100a) and a second plate (200a) coupled to the heat exchange section (300a) with the heat exchange section (300a) in between.

[0165] 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).

[0166] 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.

[0167] 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).

[0168] In one example, in the first direction (X), the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a) may be located above the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3211a). Alternatively, in the first direction (X), the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a) may be located below the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3211a). 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.

[0169] In one example, when viewed from a first direction (X) where the plates are stacked, the first temperature refrigerant path (3201a) and the second temperature refrigerant path (3202a) may be provided diagonally. When the paths are arranged diagonally, the length of the paths becomes longer than when arranged horizontally or vertically. This increases the heat exchange area and can increase the heat exchange efficiency.

[0170] In one example, when viewed from a first direction (X) where the plates are stacked, the first temperature refrigerant inlet (3111a) and the first temperature refrigerant outlet (231a) may be provided diagonally. When the path is arranged diagonally, the length of the path becomes longer than when arranged horizontally or vertically. This increases the heat exchange area and can increase the heat exchange efficiency.

[0171] In one example, a heat exchange limiting structure (600a) is provided within the second heat exchanger. In one example, the length (EL) of the heat exchange section is determined by the position of the heat exchange limiting structure (600a).

[0172] Alternatively, the length (EL) of the heat exchange section may be determined by the distance between the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a) into which the second refrigerant is introduced and the second temperature refrigerant outlet (3211a) into which the second temperature refrigerant is discharged. For example, the length (EL) of the heat exchange section may be determined by the distance (height difference) between a straight line in the y direction passing through the center of the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a) and a straight line in the y direction passing through the center of the second temperature refrigerant outlet (3211a).

[0173] The method for adjusting the length (EL) of the heat exchange section is the same as that of the first embodiment described above. In one example, the first temperature refrigerant path (3201a) may be provided longer than the second temperature refrigerant path (3202a).

[0174]

[0175] In one example, the heat exchange limiting structure (600a) may be provided at a location corresponding to a second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a) into which the second refrigerant is introduced and a second temperature refrigerant outlet (3211a) into which the second temperature refrigerant is discharged. Alternatively, the locations of the heat exchange limiting structure (600a), the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a) into which the second refrigerant is introduced, and the second temperature refrigerant outlet (3211a) into which the second temperature refrigerant is discharged may not correspond.

[0176] In one example, a heat exchange limiting structure (600a) is provided on a virtual first surface (S1) and a second surface (S2). The shape of the heat exchange limiting structure (600a) provided in the second embodiment is not shown in the drawings, but is identical to that of the first embodiment.

[0177] For example, the first surface (S1) and the second surface (S2) are provided on the XY plane of FIG. 9. In one example, the imaginary first surface (S1) and the second surface (S2) are provided to face each other within the second heat exchanger. For example, the first surface (S1) and the second surface (S2) are surfaces provided in a direction perpendicular to the surface on which the plate-shaped heat exchangers are stacked. In one example, the heat exchange section (E) is defined between the first surface (S1) and the second surface (S2).

[0178] In one example, a heat exchange limiting structure (600a) is provided on the first surface (S1) so that the second temperature refrigerant path (3202a) does not pass through the first surface (S1), and is also provided on the second surface (S2) so that the first temperature refrigerant path (3201a) does not pass through the second surface (S2). This is to ensure that the first temperature refrigerant path (3201a) and the second temperature refrigerant path (3202a) flow through the heat exchange section (E) without accumulating in areas such as corners or edges within the heat exchange section (300).

[0179] In one example, the first surface (S1) may correspond to the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a), and the second surface (S2) may correspond to the first refrigerant outlet (231a). In one example, when the first temperature refrigerant path (3201a) is directed downward within the second heat exchanger (320), the first surface (S1) is provided to correspond to the bottom of the first refrigerant outlet (231). In one example, when the second temperature refrigerant path (3202a) is directed downward within the second heat exchanger (320), the second surface (S2) is provided to correspond to the upper side of the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a). This is to allow each refrigerant to flow smoothly into each inlet along the refrigerant path and into each outlet.

[0180] The refrigerant on the high-temperature side flows along the first temperature refrigerant path (3201a) through the second heat exchanger (320) to the outside of the heat exchange section (300). The refrigerant on the high-temperature side is not allowed to flow downward below the second surface (S2) by the heat exchange limiting structure (600a) and is discharged through the first refrigerant outlet (231a).

[0181] Additionally, the low-temperature refrigerant flows along the second temperature refrigerant path (3202a), exchanges heat with the high-temperature refrigerant inside the second heat exchanger (320a), and then flows to the outside of the heat exchange section (300). The low-temperature refrigerant is introduced into the second temperature refrigerant inlet (3212a), and then, due to the heat exchange limiting structure (600a), does not flow upward above the first surface (S1), moves within the second heat exchanger (320a), and is discharged through the second temperature refrigerant outlet (3211a).

[0182] 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.

[0183] The present invention provides an integrated heat exchanger comprising stacked plate heat exchangers. The integrated 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.

[0184] In addition, there is an advantage in that each heat exchanger can be combined to improve air conditioning and cooling performance.

[0185] 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.

[0186] In addition, the present invention provides a heat exchange limiting structure for an internal heat exchanger. There is an advantage in that the optimal performance of an integrated heat exchanger can be derived by appropriately adjusting the heat exchange performance of the internal heat exchanger.

[0187] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are intended only to illustrate, not to limit, the technical scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the technical scope of the present invention includes not only each disclosed embodiment but also combinations of the disclosed embodiments, and furthermore, the scope of the technical scope of the present invention is not limited by such embodiments. In addition, a person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains can make numerous changes and modifications to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims, and all such appropriate changes and modifications should be deemed to fall within the scope of the present invention as equivalents.

Claims

1. An integrated heat exchanger comprising a heat exchanger provided as a single unit in which plate-shaped heat exchangers are stacked, The above heat exchanger is, First heat exchanger; A second heat exchanger communicating with and coupled to the first heat exchanger; comprising 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; A second temperature refrigerant path through which a second refrigerant of a second temperature flows; A heat exchange section provided to enable heat exchange between the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant between a virtual first surface through which the first temperature refrigerant path passes and a virtual second surface through which the second temperature refrigerant path passes; and An integrated heat exchanger comprising a heat exchange limiting structure provided on the first surface so that the second temperature refrigerant path does not pass through the first surface, and provided on the second surface so that the first temperature refrigerant path does not pass through the second surface.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above heat exchange limiting structure is, Adjacent plates located on the first surface in the area corresponding to the second temperature refrigerant path come into contact with each other, and An integrated heat exchanger provided such that adjacent plates located on the second surface are in contact with each other in an area corresponding to the first temperature refrigerant path.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above heat exchange limiting structure is, 1st edition; It includes a second plate that is folded so that a portion of it contacts the first plate, and An integrated heat exchanger in which the first plate and the second plate are provided alternately.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above heat exchange limiting structure is, An integrated heat exchanger comprising a block provided between adjacent plates located on the first surface in an area corresponding to the second temperature refrigerant path and between adjacent plates located on the second surface in an area corresponding to the first temperature refrigerant path.

5. In Paragraph 1, An integrated heat exchanger, wherein the first surface is provided at a position corresponding to a second temperature refrigerant inlet through which the second refrigerant flows into the second heat exchanger, and the second surface is provided at a position corresponding to a first temperature refrigerant outlet through which the first temperature refrigerant flows out of the second heat exchanger.

6. In Paragraph 1, An integrated heat exchanger in which the first temperature is provided higher than the second temperature.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above first temperature refrigerant path is, An integrated heat exchanger provided longer than the second temperature refrigerant path.

8. In Paragraph 7, When viewed from the first direction in which the above plates are stacked, An integrated heat exchanger in which the first temperature refrigerant path and the second temperature refrigerant path are provided diagonally.

9. In Paragraph 7, It further includes a first plate and a second plate coupled to the heat exchanger with the heat exchanger in between, and The first plate above is, A first refrigerant inlet for introducing the first refrigerant into the first heat exchanger, a first cooling water inlet and a first cooling water outlet for flowing in and out of the first heat exchanger, are formed and coupled to the first heat exchanger. The second plate above is, An integrated heat exchanger coupled to the second heat exchanger, wherein a second temperature refrigerant inlet and a second temperature refrigerant outlet are formed for the second refrigerant to flow in and out of the second heat exchanger, and a first refrigerant outlet is formed for the first refrigerant to flow out to the outside of the heat exchanger.

10. In Paragraph 1, An integrated heat exchanger in which the movement directions of the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant in the heat exchange section are provided parallel.

11. In Paragraph 1, An integrated heat exchanger in which the movement directions of the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant in the heat exchange section are provided in opposite directions.

12. In Paragraph 1, The above heat exchanger is, It further includes a third heat exchanger coupled to the second heat exchanger and supplying the second refrigerant to the second heat exchanger, and having a second refrigerant inlet and a second refrigerant outlet for the second refrigerant to flow in and out of the interior, and a first refrigerant outlet for the first refrigerant to flow out to the outside. An integrated heat exchanger in which the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the third heat exchanger are connected in series.

13. In Paragraph 12, An integrated heat exchanger, wherein the first surface is provided at a position corresponding to the second refrigerant outlet and the second surface is provided at a position corresponding to the first refrigerant outlet.

14. In Paragraph 12, An integrated heat exchanger further comprising a bypass path that prevents heat exchange from taking place within the third heat exchanger when the refrigerant flowing out from the third heat exchanger to the outside of the heat exchange section passes through the heat exchange section.

15. In Paragraph 12, The heat exchange amount of the above heat exchange section is, An integrated heat exchanger provided in the order of the first heat exchanger, the third heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger.

16. In Paragraph 15, Each of the stacked surfaces of the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the third heat exchanger is provided to face each other with the same area, and An integrated heat exchanger provided with a height increasing in the order of the first heat exchanger, the third heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger in a stacked direction of the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the third heat exchanger.

17. In Paragraph 12, It further includes a first plate and a second plate coupled to the heat exchanger with the heat exchanger in between, and The first plate above is, A first refrigerant inlet for introducing a first refrigerant into the first heat exchanger, a first cooling water inlet and a first cooling water outlet for flowing in and out of the first heat exchanger, are formed and coupled to the first heat exchanger. The second plate above is, An integrated heat exchanger having a second refrigerant inlet and a second refrigerant outlet communicating with the first refrigerant inlet, a second cooling water inlet and a second cooling water outlet for cooling water to flow in and out of the third heat exchanger, and coupled with the third heat exchanger.

18. In any one of paragraphs 12 through 17, The above first heat exchanger is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat with the first refrigerant on the high-temperature side and the cooling water, and The above third heat exchanger is a heat exchanger in which the second refrigerant on the low-temperature side exchanges heat with the cooling water, and The above second heat exchanger is an integrated heat exchanger that is an internal heat exchanger for heat exchange between the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant.

19. In Paragraph 18, 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 gaseous refrigerant on the high-temperature side and the cooling water, and The above second heat exchanger is provided as a double heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between refrigerants in separate flow paths, and The above third heat exchanger is an integrated heat exchanger provided as a chiller that lowers the temperature of the cooling water through heat exchange between the refrigerant on the low-temperature side and the cooling water.

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