Multi-Pass Heat Exchanger Layout With Same-Side Inlet and Outlet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-pass heat exchangers face challenges in positioning the inlet and outlet parts at the same side due to the need for additional bypass flow paths, which complicates modularization and increases weight and manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A heat exchanger design that includes a core part with stacked heat exchange plates, an isolation flow part, and partition parts to create multiple flow paths, allowing the inlet and outlet to be positioned at the same side, with features like blocking and baffle parts to divide internal spaces and form separate flow paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multi-pass flow paths are formed by disposing baffle plates in the core part to improve heat exchange performance, then heat exchange performance is improved, but the inlet part and outlet part must be disposed at different sides which complicates modularization and increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a bypass flow path that extends in the stacking direction (third dimension) of the heat exchange plates, rather than only in the planar direction. This dimensional change allows the heat exchange medium to traverse from one side to the other side through the stacking direction, enabling multi-pass flow while keeping inlet and outlet parts at opposite sides, thus resolving the contradiction between heat exchange performance and inlet-outlet positioning complexity
2Productivity
If inlet part and outlet part are disposed at different sides to enable multi-pass flow, then multi-pass flow is achieved, but additional bypass flow paths are required which increases manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The bypass flow path is merged with the existing heat exchange plates by forming it as an integrated structure during the stacking process. The bypass flow path utilizes the same plate structure and stacking methodology as the main heat exchange paths, eliminating the need for separate bypass components and reducing manufacturing complexity while achieving multi-pass flow capability
3Adaptability or versatility
If inlet part and outlet part are disposed at the same side for modularization, then modularization is enabled, but additional bypass flow paths must be formed which increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchanger is segmented into multiple independent flow paths (first pass, second pass, third pass) that can be independently configured. Each pass is formed by specific arrangements of heat exchange plates and bypass structures, allowing modular design where each segment can be independently manufactured and assembled, thus enabling modularization while managing bypass flow path complexity
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
Improves heat exchange performance, enhances mountability with modular components, reduces costs and weight, and simplifies manufacturing by allowing the inlet and outlet to be positioned at the same side.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of heat exchange plates may be stacked to form a plurality of flow paths through which a heat exchange medium flows
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a multi-pass heat exchanger, in which a plurality of heat exchange plates may be stacked to form a plurality of flow paths through which a heat exchange medium flows, and an inlet part, through which the heat exchange medium is introduced, and an outlet part, through which the heat exchange medium is discharged, may be positioned at the same side, thereby improving mountability, workability, and the like with modularized components such as manifolds.