Integrated Receiver-Evaporator Layout to Cut Refrigeration Height
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquid recirculation refrigeration systems face challenges due to the need for a net positive suction head and high material costs, particularly when the heat exchanger is located above the receiver and pump, creating an objectionable height and increased expenses compared to traditional vapor compression systems.
Innovation Solution
The refrigeration system integrates a primary circuit with an evaporator and a secondary circuit having a receiver, where the first refrigerant in the evaporator is in a heat exchange relationship with the second refrigerant within the receiver, potentially eliminating the need for a separate heat exchanger and reducing component count, thus simplifying construction and reducing material costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the heat exchanger is located above the receiver and pump to facilitate gravity feed and 100% liquid return, then the refrigeration system achieves effective heat exchange and liquid return, but the overall height becomes objectionable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the heat exchanger and receiver into a single integrated component, eliminating the need for separate heat exchanger and receiver assemblies. This merging allows the heat exchanger to be positioned within the receiver structure, reducing the overall vertical height while maintaining the heat exchange function and liquid return capability through the integrated design
2Reliability
If a separate heat exchanger is provided above the receiver, then effective heat exchange between refrigerants is achieved, but material costs increase compared to traditional vapor compression systems
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchanger and receiver are merged into a single integrated component, eliminating the need for separate heat exchanger assembly and reducing material costs. The integrated design uses the receiver structure itself to perform heat exchange functions, reducing overall material requirements and manufacturing complexity while maintaining effective heat transfer between the first and second refrigerants
Solution Approach 2:
The receiver is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both a storage vessel for the second refrigerant and as a heat exchanger for transferring heat to the first refrigerant. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated separate components, reducing material costs while maintaining effective heat exchange capability
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 the overall height and material costs, simplifies assembly, and decreases the refrigerant charge required, while maintaining effective heat exchange and refrigeration performance.
Implementation Method 1
the first refrigerant within the receiver is in a heat exchange relationship with the second refrigerant within the evaporator
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigeration system includes a first circuit configured to circulate a first refrigerant. The first circuit includes an evaporator. The refrigeration system also includes a second circuit configured to circulate a second refrigerant. The second circuit includes a receiver associated with the evaporator such that the second refrigerant within the receiver is in a heat exchange relationship with the first refrigerant within the evaporator.