Layered Microchannel Heat Exchanger for Flexible Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional heat exchangers with microchannels face limitations in efficient heat exchange and installation flexibility due to restricted fluid flow orientation, leading to performance deterioration and space constraints.
Innovation Solution
A heat exchanger design featuring alternating layers of microchannels with distribution members that allow for uniform fluid distribution and independent flow paths, enabling flexible installation orientations and efficient heat exchange by evaporating a liquid in one layer and condensing a gas in the other, while reducing the need for thick end plates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional heat exchangers with microchannels are used, then heat exchange capability is provided, but installation flexibility is limited due to restricted fluid flow orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchanger is divided into multiple alternating layers (first layers and second layers) with first flow channels and second flow channels respectively. Each layer can be independently configured with microchannels, allowing the fluid flow paths to be segmented and oriented in different directions within each layer while maintaining overall heat exchange functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-plane flow orientation to multi-dimensional flow paths by alternating layers with different channel orientations. The first layers and second layers are arranged alternately with their flow channels extending in different directions, enabling three-dimensional fluid distribution and eliminating the restriction of single-directional flow
2Productivity
If uniform fluid distribution is achieved through distribution members, then heat exchange efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution members are integrated within the existing layer structure of the heat exchanger. The first distribution members are incorporated into the first layers and second distribution members into the second layers, merging the distribution function with the heat exchange layers rather than adding separate complex distribution systems
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution members serve multiple functions: they distribute fluid uniformly across the microchannels, provide structural support for the layer assembly, and facilitate the alternating layer configuration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components
3Adaptability or versatility
If alternating layers with independent flow paths are used, then installation freedom is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchanger is manufactured as separate first layers and second layers that can be produced independently using the same or similar processes. Each layer type is segmented and designed to be assembled alternately, simplifying the manufacturing of individual components while enabling flexible final assembly configurations
Solution Approach 2:
Both first layers and second layers use the same basic structure of microchannels and distribution members, differing only in flow channel orientation. This homogeneity in design approach allows for standardized manufacturing processes and simplifies production while maintaining the alternating layer configuration
4Productivity
If microchannels with dimensions of 10-1000 μm are used, then heat exchange performance is improved, but space constraints and weight issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchanger uses thin layered structures with microchannels formed within each layer. The alternating first and second layers create a compact, thin-profiled heat exchanger that maintains high heat exchange performance through the microchannels while minimizing overall weight and space requirements
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 design enhances installation freedom, maintains performance across orientations, and achieves space savings and weight reduction by optimizing fluid flow and heat exchange efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the heat exchanger (100) comprises a distribution member (40, 50) in one or each of the first and second liquid transport pores (111, 112), the distribution member (40, 50) being for uniformly distributing a fluid containing a liquid as an evaporation source to the plurality of first layers (10) and/or the plurality of second layers (20)
Implementation Method 2
performing liquid evaporation in either one of the plurality of first flow channels (12) of the first layers (10) or the second flow channels (22) of the second layers (20)
Implementation Method 3
performing gas condensation in the other one of the plurality of first flow channels (12) of the first layers (10) or the second flow channels (22) of the second layers (20)
Implementation Method 4
heat exchange being carried out by performing liquid evaporation in either one of the plurality of first flow channels (12) of the first layers (10) or the second flow channels (22) of the second layers (20) and performing gas condensation in the other one
Data Source
AI summary
A heat exchanger includes: first layers each including first flow channels that are microchannels; and second layers each including second flow channels that are microchannels. The first layers and the second layers constitute a lamination. Heat is exchanged by performing either of: liquid evaporation in the first flow channels and gas condensation in the second flow channels, or liquid evaporation in the second flow channels and gas condensation in the first flow channels. The lamination includes: a first liquid transport pore that is in fluid communication with the first flow channels; and a second liquid transport pore that is in fluid communication with the second flow channels.