Refrigeration device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigeration devices require complex flow path switching mechanisms with two four-way switching valves to perform multiple operations, which can be cumbersome and prone to issues with high-pressure refrigerants like carbon dioxide.
Innovation Solution
A refrigeration device with a bridge circuit that includes four flow paths and four valves, allowing for adjustable flow rate and pressure control, simplifying the switching mechanism and reducing the impact of differential pressures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two four-way switching valves are used to enable multiple operations, then the refrigeration device can perform cooling, heating, heat recovery, and residual heat operations, but the flow path switching mechanism becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the flow path switching function into multiple independent three-way valves instead of using two complex four-way switching valves. Each three-way valve handles a specific flow path segment, making the overall system simpler while maintaining the ability to perform multiple operations including cooling, heating, heat recovery, and residual heat operations
Solution Approach 2:
The three-way valves are designed to perform multiple functions within a single component. Each three-way valve can switch between different flow paths and work in combination with other valves to enable various operation modes, reducing the total number of valves needed while maintaining system versatility
2Productivity
If high-pressure refrigerant is used to improve cooling efficiency, then the refrigeration effect is enhanced, but noise and potential pipe damage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates damping structures and gradual pressure transition designs in the flow path switching mechanism. These features cushion the impact of high-pressure refrigerant before it enters the system, reducing noise and preventing pipe damage while maintaining cooling efficiency through controlled pressure management
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
Enables efficient and reliable operation across various modes, including cooling and heating, while minimizing noise and potential pipe damage from high-pressure refrigerants, and allows for simplified circuit configuration.
Implementation Method 1
a compression unit (30)... compressed refrigerant radiates heat
Implementation Method 2
compressed refrigerant radiates heat (condenses) in the outdoor heat exchanger
Implementation Method 3
evaporates in the refrigeration-facility heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A flow path switching mechanism (70) includes first to fourth flow paths (71, 72, 73, 74) and opening and closing mechanisms (V1, V2, V3, V4, 75, 76) that can each open and close a corresponding one of the flow paths (71, 72, 73, 74). A first connection point (C1) connecting an inflow portion of the first flow path (71) and an inflow portion of the second flow path (72) is connected to a discharge portion of a compression unit (30). A second connection point (C2) connecting an outflow portion of the first flow path (71) and an inflow portion of the third flow path (73) is connected to a gas-side end of a heat source heat exchanger (22). A third connection point (C3) connecting an outflow portion of the second flow path (72) and an inflow portion of the fourth flow path (74) is connected to a gas-side end of a second utilization heat exchanger (85, 93). A fourth connection point (C4) connecting an outflow portion of the third flow path (73) and an outflow portion of the fourth flow path (74), and a gas-side end of a first utilization heat exchanger (83) are connected to a suction portion of the compression unit (30).