Ejector-receiver refrigeration circuit with valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current air conditioning circuits for automobile vehicles face complexities in component arrangement and piping, making it difficult to achieve efficient operation and compact packaging, especially with the inclusion of an ejector, which is not widely used due to its complex configuration requirements.
Innovation Solution
A compact system integrating an ejector, valve, dryer, and receiver within a single container, featuring an internal heat exchanger with a phase separation function, where the refrigerant is processed through various lines and valves to facilitate efficient refrigerant flow and separation, allowing for a more efficient and compact arrangement of air conditioning components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If multiple components (ejector, valve, dryer, receiver) are integrated into a single container, then system packaging size is reduced and arrangement is simplified, but device complexity increases due to internal component arrangement and piping requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple AC components (ejector, valve, dryer, receiver) into a single integrated container, merging their functions while reducing overall packaging volume. The container houses all components in a unified structure with internal piping connections, eliminating the need for separate mounting locations and external piping between components.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiver is positioned at least partially within the heat exchanger device, creating a nested configuration where one component is housed inside another. This nesting arrangement maximizes space utilization within the container and reduces the overall volume required for the integrated system.
2Productivity
If an ejector is included in the refrigeration system, then operational efficiency is improved, but piping and arrangement constraints increase system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The ejector is integrated within the container along with other components, merging its function into the unified system structure. This integration simplifies the overall arrangement by eliminating external piping connections and mounting the ejector in close proximity to the components it interacts with.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated container serves as an intermediary structure that facilitates the complex piping and flow control requirements of the ejector system. By providing a unified housing with internal connections, the container mediates the complexity of ejector integration while maintaining operational efficiency.
3Ease of manufacture
If components are arranged in a compact configuration within a single container, then ease of installation and arrangement is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple components into a single integrated container, the patent simplifies installation procedures. The container is installed as one unit rather than requiring separate mounting of multiple components, reducing installation complexity despite the precision required for internal component arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The components are pre-positioned and integrated into the container during manufacturing, performing the complex positioning work beforehand. This preliminary action during fabrication ensures precise component placement while simplifying field installation, as the integrated unit requires no complex on-site assembly.
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
This configuration reduces system packaging size and enhances efficiency by integrating multiple functions within a single container, improving the overall performance and simplifying the arrangement of air conditioning components in vehicle engine compartments.
Implementation Method 1
An internal heat exchanger (IHX) device is positioned within the container
Implementation Method 2
A refrigerant phase separator function is positioned within the container in communication with the ejector and receiving the refrigerant discharged from the ejector for separation into each of a refrigerant gas and a refrigerant liquid
Data Source
AI summary
An automobile vehicle refrigeration system combined ejector-receiver includes a container. An internal heat exchanger (IHX) is positioned entirely within the container. The IHX includes a canister. A receiver and dryer is located entirely within the container and is positioned at least partially within the canister defining a cavity between the receiver and dryer and the canister to receive a refrigerant. An ejector is positioned within the container. An ejector feed line is in communication with the cavity between the receiver and dryer and the canister, the ejector feed line receiving the refrigerant after discharge from the cavity for flow into the ejector. A refrigerant phase separator is positioned within the container. The refrigerant phase separator receives the refrigerant after discharge from the ejector for separation into each of a refrigerant gas and a refrigerant liquid.