Thermal conditioning module with accumulation device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current heat treatment systems in vehicles face challenges in compactness and efficiency due to the need for separate accumulation devices and extensive piping, which can lead to damage from refrigerant fluid circulation in liquid state to compression devices.
Innovation Solution
A heat treatment module integrating a first and second heat exchanger with an internal heat exchanger and an accumulation device, where the accumulation device is positioned on a platform within the module, allowing for compact design and preventing liquid refrigerant from reaching compression devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the accumulation device is installed separately from the heat treatment module, then the heat treatment module can be simpler in structure, but the overall system occupies more space and requires additional piping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the accumulation device with the heat treatment module by placing it on the evaporator, creating an integrated assembly. This merging eliminates the need for separate installation and reduces overall system space requirements while maintaining the functional independence of the accumulation device.
Solution Approach 2:
The evaporator structure serves dual functions: as a heat exchange component and as a mounting platform for the accumulation device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional structural elements and minimizes system complexity.
2Volume of moving object
If the accumulation device is integrated into the heat treatment module, then the system becomes more compact and piping is reduced, but the internal arrangement becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The accumulation device is nested on top of the evaporator, utilizing the vertical space above the heat exchange component. This nesting arrangement allows both components to coexist in a compact configuration without interfering with each other's function, minimizing the overall footprint while maintaining simple internal arrangements.
3Productivity
If liquid refrigerant circulates to the compression device, then the refrigeration cycle can continue, but the compression device may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The accumulation device is positioned to intercept liquid refrigerant before it can reach the compression device. By performing the separation action preliminarily in the refrigerant circulation path, the system prevents liquid slugging while maintaining continuous operation of the refrigeration cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The evaporator acts as an intermediary structure that facilitates the separation of liquid and gaseous refrigerant. The accumulation device mounted on the evaporator uses this intermediary position to capture liquid refrigerant and prevent it from entering the compression device, thereby protecting the system while maintaining circulation.
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 integrated design enhances compactness, optimizes thermal performance, and protects compression devices by containing refrigerant fluid in the liquid state, preventing damage and eliminating the need for external accumulation devices and piping.
Implementation Method 1
the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger both being configured to bring about an exchange of heat between a refrigerant fluid and a heat transfer liquid
Implementation Method 2
the heat transfer liquid can condense the refrigerant fluid
Implementation Method 3
the internal heat exchanger being configured to bring about an exchange of heat between the refrigerant fluid, which is subjected to two different temperature levels in the heat treatment system
Implementation Method 4
The accumulation device therefore makes it possible to contain the refrigerant fluid in the liquid state in order that it does not continue to circulate to the compression device
Data Source
AI summary
A heat treatment module for a heat treatment system of a vehicle is disclosed. The heat treatment module includes a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, and an internal heat exchanger. The first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger both are configured to bring about an exchange of heat between a refrigerant fluid and a heat transfer liquid. The internal heat exchanger is configured to bring about an exchanger of heat between the refrigerant fluid, which is subjected to two different temperature levels in the heat treatment system. The heat treatment module includes an accumulation device configured to contain the refrigerant fluid. The internal heat exchanger includes a platform on which the accumulation device is disposed.