Connection Module for Flexible Refrigeration Cycle Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigeration cycle systems face limitations in versatility and space efficiency due to the fixed arrangement of components and refrigerant pipes, particularly when integrating expansion valves and heat exchangers.
Innovation Solution
A connection module with a body containing a refrigerant flow path that includes high-temperature-side and low-temperature-side flow paths, allowing for flexible connection of various components and supporting different configurations of the refrigeration cycle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If components are fixedly arranged and connected by refrigerant pipes, then the system structure is simple, but the versatility for different refrigeration cycle configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connection module is designed with multiple connection ports (first through fourth connection ports) that can connect to different components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, expansion valve) in various configurations. The module can support both series and parallel connections of heat exchangers, allowing the same module to adapt to different refrigeration cycle arrangements without requiring custom piping for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The refrigeration system is divided into modular components: the connection module serves as a centralized hub that separates the complex piping logic from the individual components. By segmenting the system into a control module (connection module) and functional components (heat exchangers, expansion valve), the system gains flexibility while maintaining simplicity in individual component design.
2Volume of moving object
If expansion valve and heat exchanger are integrated, then space is saved, but the arrangement of components and connection pipes becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connection module acts as an intermediary between the expansion valve and heat exchangers, providing a centralized connection point that allows these components to be positioned flexibly within the vehicle. Instead of directly integrating components or using fixed piping, the connection module mediates the connections, enabling space-efficient layout while maintaining arrangement flexibility for different refrigeration cycle configurations.
3Ease of manufacture
If refrigerant pipes are used to connect components, then installation is simple, but space efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple connection ports and refrigerant flow paths are merged into a single integrated connection module. This consolidation reduces the total length and number of refrigerant pipes required, as the module provides centralized connections for multiple components. The merging of connection functions into one module improves space efficiency while maintaining installation simplicity through standardized connection points.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The connection module enables various configurations of the refrigeration cycle, enhances space efficiency by aggregating refrigerant flow within the module, and suppresses heat transfer between different temperature paths, maintaining the coefficient of performance of the refrigeration cycle.
Implementation Method 1
suppresses heat transfer between different temperature paths
Data Source
AI summary
A plurality of components of a refrigeration cycle are connected to a connection module. The connection module includes a body having a refrigerant flow path that constitutes a part of a refrigerant flow path in the refrigeration cycle. The refrigerant flow path includes a high-temperature-side flow path and a low-temperature-side flow path. The high-temperature-side flow path has a connection port to which a high-temperature-side component of the plurality of components, through which a high-pressure refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle flows, is connectable. The low-temperature-side flow path has a connection port to which a low-temperature-side component of the plurality of components, through which a refrigerant having a lower temperature than the high-pressure refrigerant flows, is connectable.