Integrated Evaporator Heat Exchanger for Refrigerant Superheat Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing vapor compression cycles, such as those used in air conditioning and refrigeration, have inefficiencies due to the separate internal heat exchanger and evaporator configuration, which limits the utilization of refrigerant cooling capacity and results in suboptimal compressor performance and system durability.
Innovation Solution
An integrated evaporator unit with an internal heat exchanger that utilizes the remaining cooling capacity of the refrigerant exiting from the evaporator, featuring a high pressure and low pressure flow passage configuration, a thermostatic expansion device, and a temperature sensing element to control refrigerant phase and superheat, enhancing the vapor compression cycle's efficiency and packaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the internal heat exchanger is disposed apart from the evaporator, then the refrigerant can absorb heat from the ambient atmosphere, but the internal heat exchanger cannot utilize the cooling capability of the refrigerant exiting from the evaporator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the internal heat exchanger and evaporator into a single integrated assembly, allowing the refrigerant to directly transfer cooling capability from the evaporator outlet to the internal heat exchanger inlet without external heat absorption, thereby maximizing cooling utilization while simplifying system configuration
2Loss of energy
If the internal heat exchanger and evaporator are integrated into one assembly, then the cooling capability is maximized, but the system requires more precise manufacturing and assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The internal heat exchanger and evaporator are integrated into a single assembly with standardized connection interfaces, allowing the refrigerant channels to be closely coupled for maximum heat transfer while using modular design to simplify manufacturing and assembly processes
3Volume of moving object
If the refrigerant flow passages are optimized for compactness, then the system size is reduced, but the flow dynamics become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested flow passage configuration where high-pressure and low-pressure refrigerant channels are arranged in concentric or interleaved patterns within the integrated assembly, maximizing heat transfer surface area while minimizing overall system volume and maintaining manageable flow dynamics
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 improves the overall efficiency of the vapor compression cycle by maximizing the use of refrigerant cooling capacity, stabilizing refrigerant flow, and extending compressor life, while reducing refrigerant charge and system complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the high pressure flow passage 6 is located next to the low pressure flow passage 14, such that refrigerant passing through the high pressure flow passage 6 expels heat that is absorbed by refrigerant passing through the low pressure flow passage 14
Implementation Method 2
refrigerant passing through the low pressure flow passage 14
Data Source
AI summary
An evaporator unit comprising an evaporator, an internal heat exchanger defining a high pressure flow passage and a low pressure flow passage, an expansion device connected downstream of the high pressure flow passage of the internal heat exchanger and upstream of the evaporator. The internal heat exchanger is attached to the evaporator. With the above structure, the internal heat exchanger can utilize the remaining cooling capability of the refrigerant exiting from the evaporator for its greatest benefit.