Three-Pipe Receiver Design for Multi-Mode Heat Pump Refrigerant Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional two-pipe receivers in heat pump systems with multiple units cannot function effectively in various operating modes, leading to refrigerant dead zones and inefficiencies, as they are limited in connecting between multiple units and thermal cycles.
Innovation Solution
A three-pipe receiver structure that connects to multiple load units and a cold and heat source unit, allowing refrigerant to flow through the receiver in various modes by using check valves to control fluid flow, enabling the system to operate in multiple configurations without forming dead zones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional two-pipe receiver is used, then the structure is simple, but the receiver cannot function in all operating modes and forms dead zones
Solution Approach 1:
The receiver is divided into multiple cavities (first cavity and second cavity) separated by a partition plate, with each cavity having independent piping connections. This segmentation allows different portions of the receiver to serve different functions in different operating modes, eliminating dead zones while maintaining structural organization
Solution Approach 2:
The receiver structure is designed to perform multiple functions across different operating modes by providing multiple pipe connections (first pipe, second pipe, third pipe) that can be configured for various refrigerant flow patterns. The same receiver structure serves as refrigerant storage, transfer, and circulation component depending on the operational mode
2Adaptability or versatility
If a three-pipe receiver structure is implemented, then the receiver can function in multiple modes, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receiver structure nests multiple functional elements within a single housing: multiple cavities are arranged inside the receiver housing, with partition plates creating nested compartments. The piping system is similarly nested with multiple pipes routed through the receiver structure, allowing complex functionality within a compact form factor
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple piping functions are merged into a single receiver component. The first pipe, second pipe, and third pipe are all integrated into the same receiver housing with connections to different cavities, combining what could have been separate components into one unified receiver assembly
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
The three-pipe receiver design allows the system to function in multiple operating modes, ensuring refrigerant is effectively stored and released across different load units and heat source configurations, enhancing operational efficiency and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
the first pipe, the second pipe and the third pipe enter the cavity of the receiver from the top of the receiver and extend to the bottom of the receiver
Implementation Method 2
the receiver can store excess refrigerant during the heating cycle and release refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle
Implementation Method 3
a first check valve and a second check valve are provided on the third pipe, and the first check valve and the second check valve only allow fluid to flow from the first pipe to the second pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A receiver, a receiver assembly and a heat pump system. The receiver includes a first pipe, a second pipe and a third pipe leading to the cavity of the receiver, wherein the first pipe, the second pipe and the third pipe connect to a first load unit, a second load unit and a cold and heat source unit, respectively.