Patent Application
20160084548
This application is based on Japanese Patent Applications No. 2013-100488 filed on May 10, 2013, and No. 2013-149757 filed on Jul. 18, 2013, the disclosure of which are incorporated herein by reference.
The present disclosure relates to a refrigerant evaporator for cooling fluid to be cooled by evaporating refrigerant by absorbing heat from the fluid to be cooled.
Patent Literatures 1 and 2 indicate refrigerant evaporators. The refrigerant evaporator evaporates a refrigerant flowing inside by absorbing heat from fluid to be cooled flowing outside, e.g., air. As a result, the refrigerant evaporator functions as a heat exchanger for cooling which cools the fluid to be cooled. Disclosed refrigerant evaporators have a first evaporative portion and a second evaporating portion which are arranged on an upstream side and a downstream side with respect to a flowing direction of the fluid in a series manner. Each evaporating portion has a core part configured by stacking a plurality of tubes, and a pair of tank parts connected to the both ends of the plurality of tubes. The core part of the first evaporating portion is partitioned in a width direction, i.e., in a right-and-left direction. In addition, the core part of the second evaporating portion is also partitioned in the width direction, i.e., the right-and-left direction.
The refrigerant evaporators disclosed in Patent Literatures 1 and 2 has an interchange part which is disposed in a communicating portion for flowing the refrigerant from the downstream first evaporating portion to the upstream second evaporating portion and interchanges the refrigerant in the right-and-left direction. The interchange part is provided by two communicating portions. One communicating portion leads the refrigerant flowing out from one side part, e.g., a right side part, of the first evaporating portion to the other side part, e.g., a left side part, of the second evaporating portion. In addition, the other one communicating portion leads the refrigerant flowing out from the other side part, e.g., a left side part, of the first evaporating portion, to the one side part, e.g., a right side part, of the second evaporating portion. The interchange part may also be called as a cross-flow passage. This structure is effective to suppress unevenness of a temperature distribution in the refrigerant evaporator. This structure is also effective to suppress the unevenness of a temperature distribution of external fluid.
In the refrigerant evaporator disclosed in Patent Literature 1, it is configured to interchange the refrigerant flow in a width direction, i.e., in the right-and-left direction, of the core part, when the refrigerant passed through the core part of the first evaporating portion to the core part of the second evaporating portion through one side tank part of the evaporating portions and a pair of communicating portions which connect the tank parts. That is, the refrigerant evaporator is configured to make the refrigerant flowing in one side of the core part of the first evaporating portion in the width direction flows into the other side of the core part of the second evaporating portion in the width direction by using one communicating portion, and to make the refrigerant flowing in the other side of the core part of the first evaporating portion in the width direction flows into the one side of the core part of the second evaporating portion in the width direction by using one communicating portion among a pair of communicating portions.
Patent Literature 1: JP4124136B
Patent Literature 2: JP2013-96653A
Here, the refrigerant evaporator disclosed in Patent Literature 1 has only one of the communicating portion which makes the refrigerant flowing in one side of the core part of the first evaporating portion in the width direction flows into the other side of the core part of the second evaporating portion in the width direction, and only one of the communicating portion which makes the refrigerant flowing in the other side of the core part of the first evaporating portion in the width direction flows into one side of the core part of the second evaporating portion in the width direction, respectively.
Accordingly, the pressure loss of the refrigerant increases in proportion to a length of a distance between the refrigerant inlet, which is a connecting portion to the communicating portion in the tank part, and the end of the tube. A refrigerant amount flowing into the tube decreases. As a result, in this core part, a liquid phase refrigerant is unevenly distributed, and unevenness on the temperature distribution may arise in the flowing air which passes the refrigerant evaporator.
In the structure of the conventional technique, unevenness on distribution of a gas component and a liquid component of the refrigerant may be created in the interchange part. For example, the gas component and the liquid component of the refrigerant may be separated in the interchange part. Such unevenness of the refrigerant component distribution in the interchange part may create unevenness of the refrigerant distribution which is not desirable in the core part in the downstream of refrigerant flow, i.e., the core part of the second evaporating portion. Such unevenness of the refrigerant distribution may give the temperature distribution which is not desirable to external fluid. In the above viewpoint, or in the other viewpoint not mentioned above, further improvement of the refrigerant evaporator is still demanded.
It is one of objects of the invention to provide an improved refrigerant evaporator.
The invention is created based on the above point, and has an object to provide a refrigerant evaporator which can suppress lowering of a distribution of the refrigerant.
It is another object of the invention to provide a refrigerant evaporator which can suppress separation of the refrigerant components in an interchange part.
The present invention employs the following technical means, in order to attain the above-mentioned object. The symbols in the parenthesis indicated in the above section and the claim merely show correspondence relations with concrete elements described in embodiments later mentioned as one example, and are not intended to limit the technical scope of this disclosure.
One of an invention disclosed here provides a refrigerant evaporator. The refrigerant evaporator performs heat exchange between a fluid to be cooled flowing outside and a refrigerant. The refrigerant evaporator has a first evaporating portion (20) and a second evaporating portion (10) arranged in series to a flow direction of the fluid to be cooled. The first evaporating portion and the second evaporating portion respectively include: a core part (11, 21) for heat exchange formed by stacking a plurality of tubes (111, 211, 11c, 21c) in which a refrigerant flows; and a pair of tank parts (12, 13, 22, 23) which are connected with both ends of the plurality of tubes, and perform collecting and distribution of the refrigerant flowing through the plurality of tubes. The core part (21) in the first evaporating portion has a first core part (21a) configured by a group of some tubes among the plurality of tubes, and a second core part (21b) configured by a group of remaining tubes. The core part (11) in the second evaporating portion has a third core part (11a) configured by a group of tubes opposing at least a part of the first core part (21a) in a flow direction of the fluid to be cooled among the plurality of tubes, and a fourth core part (11b) configured by a group of tubes opposing at least a part of the second core part (21b) in a flow direction of the fluid to be cooled. One tank part among a pair of tank parts in the first evaporating portion is configured to include a first collecting part (23a) which collects the refrigerant from the first core part, and a second collecting part (23b) which collects the refrigerant from the second core part. One tank part (13) among a pair of tank parts in the second evaporating portion is configured to include a first distribution part (13a) which distributes the refrigerant to the third core part, and a second distribution part (13b) which distributes the refrigerant to the fourth core part. The first evaporating portion and the second evaporating portion are connected through a refrigerant inter change part (30) having a first communicating portion (31a, 32b, 33a) which leads the refrigerant in the first collecting part to the second distribution part and a second communicating portion (31b, 32a, 33b) which leads the refrigerant in the second collecting part to the first distribution part. The first distribution part is connected with the second communicating portion and is disposed with a refrigerant inlet (14a) which makes the refrigerant from the second collecting part flows into the first distribution part. The second collecting part is connected with the second communicating portion and is disposed with a refrigerant outlet (24b) which makes the refrigerant in the second collecting part flows out to the first distribution part. The refrigerant outlet (24b) and the refrigerant inlet (14a) are different in numbers.
According to this, the refrigerant outlet (24b) which makes the refrigerant in the second collecting part (23b) flows out to the first distribution part (13a), and the refrigerant inlet (14a) which make the refrigerant from the second collecting part (23b) flows into the first distribution part (13a) are different in numbers thereof. Therefore, the refrigerant passage through which flows out from the second collecting part (23b) and flows into the first distribution part 13a branches therein. Accordingly, since the pressure loss of the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant passage can be reduced, it becomes possible to suppress that a liquid phase refrigerant is distributed in the third core part (11a) in a leaning manner. Therefore, it becomes possible to suppress lowering of the cooling capability of the fluid in the refrigerant evaporator.
One of an invention disclosed here provides a refrigerant evaporator. The refrigerant evaporator performs heat exchange between a fluid to be cooled flowing outside and a refrigerant. The refrigerant evaporator comprises a first evaporating portion (20) and a second evaporating portion (10) arranged in series to a flow direction of the fluid to be cooled. The first evaporating portion and the second evaporating portion respectively include: a core part (11, 21) for heat exchange formed by stacking a plurality of tubes (111, 211, 11c, 21c) in which a refrigerant flows; and a pair of tank parts (12, 13, 22, 23) which are connected with both ends of the plurality of tubes, and perform collecting and distribution of the refrigerant flowing through the plurality of tubes. The core part (21) in the first evaporating portion has a first core part (21a) configured by a group of some tubes among the plurality of tubes, and a second core part (21b) configured by a group of remaining tubes. The core part (11) in the second evaporating portion has a third core part (11a) configured by a group of tubes opposing at least a part of the first core part in a flow direction of the fluid to be cooled among the plurality of tubes, and a fourth core part (11b) configured by a group of tubes opposing at least a part of the second core part in a flow direction of the fluid to be cooled. One tank part among a pair of tank parts in the first evaporating portion is configured to include a first collecting part (23a) which collects the refrigerant from the first core part, and a second collecting part (23b) which collects the refrigerant from the second core part. One tank part (13) among a pair of tank parts in the second evaporating portion is configured to include a first distribution part (13a) which distributes the refrigerant to the third core part, and a second distribution part (13b) which distributes the refrigerant to the fourth core part. The first evaporating portion and the second evaporating portion are connected through a refrigerant inter change part (30) having a first communicating portion (31a, 32b, 33a) which leads the refrigerant in the first collecting part to the second distribution part and a second communicating portion (31b, 32a, 33b) which leads the refrigerant in the second collecting part to the first distribution part. The first distribution part is connected with the second communicating portion and is disposed with a plurality of refrigerant inlet (14a) which makes the refrigerant from the second collecting part flows into the first distribution part.
According to this, two or more refrigerant inlet (14a) which makes the refrigerant from the second core part (21b) flows into the first distribution part (13a) is disposed in the first distribution part (13a). As a result, as compared with a case where one first refrigerant inlet (14a) is disposed, it is possible to shorten a distance between an end of the tube most distanced from the first refrigerant inlet (14a) and the first refrigerant inlet (14a).
An amount of the refrigerant flowing into the tube is increased, as the distance of the first refrigerant inlet (14a) and the end of the tube becomes short. Accordingly, as compared with a case where one refrigerant inlet (14a) is disposed, a refrigerant amount flowing into the tube is increased by shortening a distance between an end of the tube most distanced from the first refrigerant inlet (14a) and the first refrigerant inlet (14a). Accordingly, since it is possible to suppress a leaning of the refrigerant amount flowing into each tube, it becomes possible to suppress that a liquid phase refrigerant is distributed in the third core part (11a) in a leaning manner. Therefore, it becomes possible to suppress lowering of the cooling capability of the fluid in the refrigerant evaporator.
One of an invention disclosed here provides a refrigerant evaporator. An invention is characterized by comprising: a plurality of upstream core parts (11a, 11b) arranged at an upstream side of the fluid to be cooled; a plurality of downstream core parts (21a, 21b) arranged at an downstream side of the fluid to be cooled; and a shifting communication part (30, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630) which communicates the upstream core part and the downstream core part which are positioned in positions not overlap at least partially with respect to a flow direction (X) of the fluid to be cooled, and makes the refrigerant flows them in an order, wherein the shifting communication part has a twisting part (35c, 235c, 335d, 335e, 435f, 635g) for making the refrigerant flows while swirling.
According to this structure, refrigerant flows while swirling by the twisting portion. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce separation of refrigerant components at the shifting communication part disposed between the upstream core part and the downstream core part.
Embodiments of the present disclosure are explained referring to drawings. In the embodiments, the same parts and components as those in each embodiment are indicated with the same reference numbers and the same descriptions will not be reiterated. In a case that only a part of component is described, the other embodiments previously described may be applied to the other parts of components. In a consecutive embodiment, a correspondence is shown by using a similar reference symbol in which only hundred and more digits differ to indicate a part corresponding to a matter described in the previous embodiment, and the same description may not be repeated.
The first embodiment is described with reference to
As known in this field, the refrigeration cycle has a compressor, a radiator (condenser), an expansion valve, etc. which are not illustrated. In this embodiment, the refrigeration cycle is configured as a receiver cycle which arranges the receiver between the condenser and the expansion valve. In addition, a refrigeration-machine-oil for lubricating the compressor is mixed in the refrigerant for the refrigeration cycle. A part of the refrigeration machine oil circulates the cycle with the refrigerant.
In
As shown in the drawing, the refrigerant evaporator 1 has two evaporating portions 10 and 20. Two evaporating portions 10 and 20 are arranged in series at an upstream side and a downstream side with respect to a flow direction of air, i.e., a flow direction X of the fluid to be cooled. An air upstream evaporating portion 10 arranged at the upstream side of the air flow direction X is also called as an upper evaporating portion 10 or a windward side evaporating portion 10. The upstream evaporating portion 10 is also called as a second evaporating portion 10. Hereafter, the upstream evaporating portion 10 is called as the AU evaporating portion 10. The air downstream evaporating portion 20 arranged at the downstream side of the air flowing direction X is also called as a downstream evaporating portion 20 or a leeward side evaporating portion 20. The downstream evaporating portion 20 is also called as a first evaporating portion 20. Hereafter, the downstream evaporating portion 20 is called as an AD evaporating portion 20.
The fundamental structure of the AU evaporating portion 10 and the AD evaporating portion 20 is the same. The AU evaporating portion 10 has a core part 11 for heat exchange and a pair of tank parts 12 and 13 arranged at an up-and-down both sides of the core part 11. The AD evaporating portion 20 has a core part 21 for heat exchange, and a pair of tank parts 22 and 23 arranged at an up-and-down both sides of the core part 21.
The core part for heat exchange in the AU evaporating portion 10 is called an AU core part 11. The core part for heat exchange in the AD evaporating portion 20 is called an AD core part 21. Among a pair of tank parts 12 and 13 in the AU evaporating portion 10, the tank part arranged on the up side is called a first AU tank part 12 and the tank part arranged on the lower side is called a second AU tank part 13. Similarly, among a pair of tank parts 22 and 23 in the AD evaporating portion 20, the tank part arranged on the up side is called a first AD tank part 22 and the tank part arranged on the lower side is called a second AD tank part 23.
Each one of the AU core part 11 and the AD core part 21 of this embodiment is configured by a stacked member in which a plurality of tubes 111 and 211 extended in an up-and-down direction and the fins 112 and 212 joined between adjacent tubes 111 and 211 are stacked alternately. A stacking direction in the stacked member of the plurality of tubes 111 and 211 and the plurality of fins 112 and 212 is hereafter called as a tube stacking direction.
Here, the AU core part 11 has the first AU core part, i.e., a first upstream core part, 11a which is configured by a group of some tubes among the plurality of tubes 111, and the second AU core part, i.e., a second upstream core part, 11b which is configured by a group of remaining tubes. The first AU core part 11a provides a third core part. The second AU core part 11b provides a fourth core part.
When viewing the AU core part 11 from the flow direction of flowing air, the first AU core part 11a is configured by a group of tubes existing on the right side in the tube stacking direction, and the second AU core part 11b is configured by a group of tubes existing on the left side in the tube stacking direction.
The AD core part 21 has the first AD core part, i.e., a first downstream core part, 21a which is configured by a group of some tubes among the plurality of tubes 211, and the second AD core part, i.e., a second downstream core part, 21b which is configured by a group of remaining tubes. The first AD core part 21a provides a first core part. The second AD core part 21b provides a second core part.
When viewing the AD core part 21 from the flow direction of flowing air, the first AD core part 21a is configured by a group of tubes existing on the right side in the tube stacking direction, and the second AD core part 21b is configured by a group of tubes existing on the left side in the tube stacking direction. When viewing from the flow direction of flowing air, the first AU core part 11a and first AD core part 21a are arranged to overlap each other, i.e., to oppose, and the second AU core part 11b and the second AD core part 21b are arranged to overlap each other, i.e., to oppose.
Each tube 111 and 211 are formed with a refrigerant passage in which the refrigerant flows, and are configured by a flat tube which has a cross sectional shape formed in a flat shape extending along the flow direction of flowing air.
The tubes 111 of the AU core part 11 is connected with the first AU tank part 12 at one end side (upper end side) in the longitudinal direction, and is also connected with the second AU tank part 13 at the other end side (lower end side) in the longitudinal direction. The tubes 211 of the AD core part 21 is connected with the first AD tank part 22 at one end side (upper end side) in the longitudinal direction, and is also connected with the second AD tank part 23 at the other end side (lower end side) in the longitudinal direction.
Each fin 112 and 212 are corrugate fins which are formed by bending a thin plate material into a wave form, and is joined to a flat outer surface on the tubes 111 and 211, and provides a heat exchange facilitating member for increasing a heat transfer area between the flowing air and the refrigerant.
Side plates 113 and 213 which reinforce each core parts 11 and 12 are disposed on both ends of the tube stacking direction on the stacking member of the tubes 111 and 211 and the fins 112 and 212. Side plates 113 and 213 are joined to the fins 112 and 212 arranged on the most outside in the tube stacking direction.
The first AU tank part 12 is configured by a cylindrical member which has one end side, i.e., the left side end when viewing from the flowing direction of air, being closed, and the other end, i.e., the right side end when viewing from the flowing direction of air, being formed with the refrigerant outlet part 12a for leading the refrigerant out to the intake side of the compressor from the tank inside. Through holes, not shown, in which one end side, i.e., the upper end, of the tubes 111 are inserted, are formed on a bottom part of the first AU tank part 12. That is, the first AU tank part 12 is configured so that an interior space thereof communicates with the tubes 111 of the AU core part 11 respectively, and functions as a collecting part which gathers the refrigerant from the core parts 11a and 11b of the AU core part 11.
The first AD tank part 22 is configured by a cylindrical member which has one end closed and the other end which is formed with a refrigerant inlet 22a for introducing the low pressure refrigerant decompressed by the expansion valve, not shown, into the tank inside. Through holes, not shown, in which one end side, i.e., the upper end, of the tubes 211 are inserted, are formed on a bottom part of the first AD tank part 22. That is, the first AD tank part 22 is configured so that an interior space thereof communicates with the tubes 211 of the AD core part 21 respectively, and functions as a distribution part which distributes the refrigerant to the core parts 21a and 21b of the AD core part 21.
The second AU tank part 13 is configured by a cylindrical member with closed both ends. Through holes, not shown, in which the other end side, i.e., the lower end, of the tubes 111 are inserted, are formed on a top part of the second AU tank part 13. That is, the second AU tank part 13 is configured so that the interior space thereof communicates with each tube 111.
A partition member 131 is arranged in a center position in the longitudinal direction in an inside of the second AU tank part 13. The tank inside space is partitioned into a space to which the tubes 111 forming the first AU core part 11a are communicated, and a space to which the tubes 111 forming the second AU core part 11b are communicated.
Here, among the inside of the second AU tank part 13, a space communicated with the tubes 111 forming the first AU core part 11a forms a first distribution part 13a which distributes the refrigerant to the first AU core part 11a, and a space communicated with the tubes 111 forming the second AU core part 11b forms a second distribution part 13b which distributes the refrigerant to the second AU core part 11b.
The second AD tank part 23 is configured by a cylindrical member with closed both ends. Through holes, not shown, in which the other end side, i.e., the lower end, of the tubes 211 are inserted, are formed on a top part of the second AD tank part 23. That is, the second AD tank part 23 is configured so that the interior space thereof communicates with each tube 211.
A partition member 231 is arranged in a center position in the longitudinal direction in an inside of the second AD tank part 23. The tank inside space is partitioned into a space to which the tubes 211 forming the first AD core part 21a are communicated, and a space to which the tubes 211 forming the second AD core part 21b are communicated.
Here, among the inside of the second AD tank part 23, a space communicated with the tubes 211 forming the first AD core part 21a forms a first collecting part 23a which collects the refrigerant from the first AD core part 21a, and a space communicated with the tubes 211 forming the second AD core part 21b forms a second collecting part 23b which collects the refrigerant from the second AD core part 21b.
The second AU tank part 13 and the second AD tank part 23 are connected through a refrigerant interchange part 30 each other. The refrigerant interchange part 30 is configured to lead the refrigerant in the first collecting part 23a in the second AD tank part 23 to the second distribution part 13b in the second AU tank part 13, and to lead the refrigerant in the second collecting part 23b in the second AD tank part 23 to the first distribution part 13a in the second AU tank part 13. That is, the refrigerant interchange part 30 is configured to interchange the refrigerant flows in a core width direction in the core parts 11 and 21.
The refrigerant interchange part 30 is configured to have a pair of collecting part connecting members 31a and 31b which is connected with the first and second collecting parts 23a and 23b in the second AD tank part 23, two pairs of distribution part connecting members 32a and 32b connected with each distribution parts 13a and 13b in the second AU tank part 13, and a middle tank part 33 connected with the pair of collecting part connecting members 31a and 31b and the two pairs of distribution part connecting members 32a and 32b, respectively.
Each of the pair of collecting part connecting members 31a and 31b is made of a cylindrical member in which a refrigerant flow passage where the refrigerant flows is formed, one end side thereof is connected with the second AD tank part 23, and the other end side thereof is connected with the middle tank part 33.
The first collecting part connecting member 31a providing one of the pair of collecting part connecting members 31a and 31b is connected to the second AD tank part 23 to communicate with the first collecting part 23a at one end side, and is connected to the middle tank part 33 to communicate with a first refrigerant flow passage 33a, which will be mentioned later, in the middle tank part 33 at the other end side.
The second collecting part connecting member 31b providing the other one is connected to the second AD tank part 23 to communicate with the second collecting part 23b at one end side, and is connected to the middle tank part 33 to communicate with a second refrigerant flow passage 33b, which will be mentioned later, in the middle tank part 33 at the other end side.
In this embodiment, the one end side of the first collecting part connecting member 31a is connected to a position near the partition member 231 among the first collecting parts 23a, and the one end side of the second collecting part connecting member 31b is connected to a position near the closed end of the second AD tank part 23 among the second collecting parts 23b.
Each of two pairs of distribution part connecting members 32a and 32b is made of a cylindrical member in which a refrigerant flow passage where the refrigerant flows is formed, one end side thereof is connected with the second AU tank part 13, and the other end side thereof is connected with the middle tank part 33.
Each of two first distribution part connecting members 32a providing one of two pairs of distribution part connecting members 32a and 32b is connected to the second AU tank part 13 to communicate with the first distribution part 13a at one end side, and is connected to the middle tank part 33 to communicate with a second refrigerant flow passage 33b, which will be mentioned later, in the middle tank part 33 at the other end side. That is, each of two first distribution part connecting members 32a is communicated with the above-mentioned second collecting part connecting member 31b through the second refrigerant flow passage 33b of the middle tank part 33.
Each of the second distribution part connecting member 32b providing the other one is connected to the second AU tank part 13 to communicate with the second distribution part 13b at one end side, and is connected to the middle tank part 33 to communicate with a first refrigerant flow passage 33a, which will be mentioned later, in the middle tank part 33 at the other end side. That is, each of two second distribution part connecting members 32b is communicated with the above-mentioned first collecting part connecting member 31a through the first refrigerant flow passage 33a of the middle tank part 33.
One end side of one first distribution part connecting member 32a among two first distribution part connecting members 32a is connected to an end of the first distribution part 13a on a near side to the refrigerant outlet part 12a in the tube stacking direction. In addition, the one end side of the other one of the first distribution part connecting member 32a is connected to an end of the first distribution part 13a on a far side from the refrigerant outlet part 12a in the tube stacking direction.
One end side of one second distribution part connecting member 32b among two second distribution part connecting members 32b is connected to an end of the second distribution part 13b on a near side to the refrigerant outlet part 12a in the tube stacking direction. In addition, the one end side of the other one of the second distribution part connecting member 32b is connected to an end of the second distribution part 13b on a far side from the refrigerant outlet part 12a in the tube stacking direction.
The second AD tank part 23 is connected with the first collecting part connecting member 31a, and is connected with the first refrigerant outlet 24a which makes the refrigerant from the first collecting part 23a flows out to the first collecting part connecting member 31a, and is connected with the second collecting part connecting member 31b, and is formed with the second refrigerant outlet 24b which makes the refrigerant flows out from the second collecting part 23b to the second collecting part connecting member 31b.
As shown in
One first refrigerant inlet 14a among two first refrigerant inlets 14a is disposed on an end of the first distribution part 13a on a near side to the refrigerant outlet part 12a in the tube stacking direction. The other one first refrigerant inlet 14a is disposed on an end of the first distribution part 13a on a far side from the refrigerant outlet part 12a in the tube stacking direction.
One second refrigerant inlet 14b among two second refrigerant inlets 14b is disposed on an end of the second distribution part 13b on a near side to the refrigerant outlet part 12a in the tube stacking direction. The other one second refrigerant inlet 14b is disposed on an end of the second distribution part 13b on a far side from the refrigerant outlet part 12a in the tube stacking direction.
Returning to
Thus, it is possible to achieve an advantage of reducing size by arranging the part of the middle tank part 33 not to overlap with the second AU tank part 13 and the second AD tank part 23. Specifically, in the flow direction X of the flowing air, the first evaporating portion 10 and the second evaporating portion 20 can be arranged in a closely arranged configuration. Therefore, it is possible to suppress increase of size of the refrigerant evaporator 1 caused by disposing the middle tank part 33.
As shown in
The first refrigerant flow passage 33a configures the refrigerant flow passage which leads the refrigerant from the first collecting part connecting member 31a to the second distribution part connecting member 32b. On the other hand, the second refrigerant flow passage 33b configures the refrigerant flow passage which leads the refrigerant from the second collecting part connecting member 31b to the first distribution part connecting member 32a.
Here, the first collecting part connecting member 31a, the second distribution part connecting member 32b, and the first refrigerant flow passage 33a in the middle tank part 33 configure the first communicating portion in this embodiment. In addition, the second collecting part connecting member 31b, the first distribution part connecting member 32a, and the second refrigerant flow passage 33b in the middle tank part 33 configure the second communicating portion.
Next, flow of the refrigerant in the refrigerant evaporator 1 according to this embodiment is explained by using
As shown in
The refrigerant descended in the first AD core part 21a flows into the first collecting part 23a of the second AD tank part 23 as shown by an arrow symbol D. On the other hand, the refrigerant descended in the second AD core part 21b flows into the second collecting part 23b of the second AD tank part 23 as shown by an arrow symbol E.
The refrigerant entered into the first collecting part 23a flows into the first refrigerant flow passage 33a of the middle tank part 33 through the first collecting part connecting member 31a as shown by an arrow symbol F. In addition, the refrigerant entered into the second collecting part 23b flows into the second refrigerant flow passage 33b of the middle tank part 33 through the second collecting part connecting member 31b as shown by an arrow symbol G.
The refrigerant entered into the first refrigerant flow passage 33a flows into the second distribution part 13b of the second AU tank part 13 through two second distribution part connecting members 32b as shown by an arrow symbol H1 and the arrow symbol H2. In addition, the refrigerant entered into the second refrigerant flow passage 33b flows into the first distribution part 13a of the second AU tank part 13 through two first distribution part connecting members 32a as shown by an arrow symbols L1 and L2.
The refrigerant entered into the second distribution part 13b of the second AU tank part 13 flows upwardly in the second AU core part 11b of the AU core part 11 as shown by an arrow symbol J. On the other hand, the refrigerant entered into the first distribution part 13a goes up the first AU core part 11a of the AU core part 11 as shown by an arrow symbol K.
The refrigerant which went up the second AU core part 11b and the refrigerant which went up the first AU core part 11a flow into an tank inside of the first AU tank part 12 as shown by arrow symbols L and M respectively, and are led from the refrigerant outlet part 12a formed on one end of the first AU tank part 12 to an intake side of the compressor, not shown, as shown by an arrow symbol N.
In the above mentioned refrigerant evaporator 1 according to the embodiment, two or more first refrigerant inlets 14a which make the refrigerant from the second AU core part 21b flow into the first distribution part 13a are disposed on the first distribution part 13a. Accordingly, as compared with a case where one first refrigerant inlet 14a is disposed, it is possible to shorten a distance between an end of the tube 111 most distanced from the first refrigerant inlet 14a and the first refrigerant inlet 14a.
As mentioned above, a pressure loss of the refrigerant is lowered and an amount of the refrigerant flowing into the tube 111 is increased, as the distance of the first refrigerant inlet 14a and the end of the tube 111 becomes short. Accordingly, as compared with a refrigerant evaporator where one first refrigerant inlet 14a is disposed, in a case of the refrigerant evaporator 1 according to this embodiment, since the distance between the first refrigerant inlet 14a and the end of the tube 111 mostly distanced from the first refrigerant inlet 14a becomes short, the refrigerant amount flowing into the tube 111 is increased.
Thereby, it is possible to suppress a leaning of the refrigerant amount flowing into each of the tubes 111 forming the first AU core part 11a, therefore it becomes possible to suppress distribution in which a liquid phase refrigerant is distributed in a leaning manner within the first AU core part 11a. Therefore, it becomes possible to suppress lowering of the cooling capability of the fluid at the refrigerant evaporator 1.
Specifically, in this embodiment, two first refrigerant inlets 14a are arranged on one side and the other side of the centerline C in the stacking direction of the tubes 111 in the first distribution part 13a as shown in
In detail, two first refrigerant inlets 14a are disposed on an end of the first distribution part 13a on a near side to the refrigerant outlet part 12a in the tube stacking direction, and on an end of the first distribution part 13a on a far side from the refrigerant outlet part 12a in the tube stacking direction, respectively.
In other words, an inter-refrigerant-inlet-distance La and an inter-refrigerant-inlet-distance Lb are substantially equal to each other. An inter-refrigerant-inlet-distance is a distance to a refrigerant inlet 14a arranged most closely among two first refrigerant inlets 14a from the plurality of tubes 111 for the first AU core part 11a. The inter-refrigerant-inlet-distance La is obtained at the tube 111a at which the inter-refrigerant inlet distance becomes the maximum to one of the refrigerant inlet 14a, i.e., the left side on the drawing, among two first refrigerant inlets 14a. The inter-refrigerant-inlet-distance Lb is obtained at the tube 111b at which the inter-refrigerant-inlet-distance becomes the maximum to the other one of the refrigerant inlet 14a, i.e., the right side on the drawing.
Thereby, it is possible to further decrease a leaning of the refrigerant amount flowing into each of the tubes 111 forming the first AU core part 11a, therefore it becomes possible to surely suppress distribution in which a liquid phase refrigerant is distributed in a leaning manner within the first AU core part 11a.
In addition, in this embodiment, the first distribution part connecting member 32a and the second distribution part connecting members 32b are disposed as a multiple of two pairs. Comparing with the refrigerant evaporator 1 in which each connecting members 32a and 32b are disposed as a single pair, it is possible to reduce the mass flow rate of the refrigerant per unit areal in the distribution part connecting members 32a and 32b, respectively. Accordingly, since the refrigerant pressure loss in each distribution part connecting members 32a and 32b is reduced, it becomes possible to improve the cooling capability of the fluid to be cooled.
By the way, in a case of the refrigerant evaporator 1 formed with a single first refrigerant inlet 14a, a flow velocity of the refrigerant entered from the first refrigerant inlet 14a is increased, and it becomes easy to be influenced by the inertia force of flow. Accordingly, as a refrigerant amount increases, a refrigerant amount flowing to the far side from the first refrigerant inlet 14a increases, therefore, a leaning of distribution of the liquid phase refrigerant becomes great.
Contrary, in this embodiment, the number of the first refrigerant inlets 14a, i.e., two, is increased to the number of the second refrigerant outlets 24b, i.e., one, as shown in
Here, among a plurality of tubes 111 which form the first AU core part 11a, the tube arranged at the furthest position from the refrigerant outlet part 12a is called as an outlet furthest tube 111f. In this case, in this embodiment, as shown in
Thereby, since it is possible to suppress a leaning of the pressure loss of the refrigerant in each refrigerant passage from the first refrigerant inlet 14a to the refrigerant outlet part 12a through each tube 111, it becomes possible to suppress worsening of refrigerant distribution.
In addition, in this embodiment, two second refrigerant inlets 14b are also arranged in a similar manner to an arrangement for the first refrigerant inlet 14a, i.e., are also arranged on an end of the first distribution part 13a on a near side to the refrigerant outlet part 12a in the tube stacking direction, and on an end of the first distribution part 13a on a far side from the refrigerant outlet part 12a in the tube stacking direction. Accordingly, it becomes possible to suppress distribution in which a liquid phase refrigerant is distributed in a leaning manner within the second AU core part 11b too, similar to the first AU core part 11a.
The second embodiment of this invention is explained with reference to
As shown in
Here, among a plurality of tubes 111 forming the first AU core part 11a, a tube 111 most distanced from the first refrigerant inlet 14a is called a furthest tube 111g, and a tube 111 nearest to the first refrigerant inlet 14a is called a nearest tube 111h. In addition, among a plurality of tubes 111 forming the first AU core part 11a, a tube arranged on a nearest position to the refrigerant outlet part 12a is called an outlet nearest tube 111e.
In this embodiment, two first inlets 14a are arranged so that distances between the first refrigerant inlet 14a and all the tubes 111 forming the first AU core part 11 are almost equal. Specifically, two first inlets 14a are arranged in positions to satisfy a relationship La<=Lb<=La+Ld, where a distance from the nearest tube 111h to the first refrigerant inlet 14a is La, a distance from the furthest tube 111g to the first refrigerant inlet 14a is Lb, and a length of a part located in the inside of the first distribution part 13a of the nearest tube 111h is Ld.
According to this, since it is possible to shorten the maximum value of the refrigerant inlet distance of the tube 111 forming the first AU core part 11a, it is possible to reduce a leaning of the pressure loss of the refrigerant flowing into each tube 111. Accordingly, it becomes possible to suppress that a liquid phase refrigerant is distributed in a leaning manner in the first AU core part 11a.
In addition, in this embodiment, the inter-refrigerant-inlet-distance Le at the outlet nearest tube 111e is longer than the inter-refrigerant-inlet-distances at the tubes 111 except for the outlet nearest tube 111e among a plurality of tubes 111 forming the first AU core part 11a.
Thereby, since it is possible to suppress a leaning of the pressure loss of the refrigerant in each refrigerant passage from the first refrigerant inlet 14a to the refrigerant outlet part 12a through each tube 111, it becomes possible to suppress worsening of refrigerant distribution.
In this embodiment, two second inlets 14b are also arranged similar to the first inlets 14a, i.e., are arranged so that distances between the second refrigerant inlet 14b and all the tubes 111 forming the second AU core part 11b are almost equal. Accordingly, it becomes possible to suppress distribution in which a liquid phase refrigerant is distributed in a leaning manner within the second AU core part 11b too, similar to the first AU core part 11a.
The third embodiment of the invention is explained reference to
As shown in
According to this embodiment, since the refrigerant entering from two first refrigerant inlets 14a is spread when it passes the throttle plate 15 in the first distribution part 13a, the distribution of the refrigerant in the first distribution part 13a can be improved. Accordingly, it becomes possible to suppress that a liquid phase refrigerant is distributed in a leaning manner in the first AU core part 11a.
In addition, in this embodiment, two second refrigerant inlets 14b are also arranged in a similar arrangement to the first refrigerant inlets 14a, i.e., are arranged on one side, right side on the drawing, to the center line C in the stacking direction of the tubes 111 in the second distribution part 13b. Further, a throttle plate 15 is arranged on the other side, on the drawing, to the center line C in the second distribution part 13b too. Accordingly, it becomes possible to suppress distribution in which a liquid phase refrigerant is distributed in a leaning manner within the second AU core part 11b too, similar to the first AU core part 11a.
The fourth embodiment for practicing the invention is explained referring to the drawings. The refrigerant evaporator 1 is disposed in the vehicle air-conditioner which adjusts the temperature of a vehicle compartment. The refrigerant evaporator 1 is a heat exchanger for cooling the air supplied to the compartment. The refrigerant evaporator 1 is a low-pressure side heat exchanger in the vapor compressing type refrigeration cycle. The refrigerant evaporator 1 evaporates the refrigerant, i.e., a liquid phase refrigerant, by absorbing heat from the air supplied to the compartment. The air supplied to the compartment is a fluid to be cooled flowing outside of the refrigerant evaporator 1.
The refrigerant evaporator 1 is one of components of the refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration cycle may have components which are not illustrated, such as a compressor, a condenser, and an expansion device. For example, the refrigeration cycle is a receiver cycle which has a receiver between the condenser and the expansion device.
In
As shown in the drawing, the refrigerant evaporator 1 has two evaporating portions 10 and 20. Two evaporating portions 10 and 20 are arranged in series at an upstream side and a downstream side with respect to a flow direction of air, i.e., a flow direction X of the fluid to be cooled. An evaporating portion 10 arranged at the upstream side of the air flow direction X is also called as a windward side evaporating portion 10. Hereafter, the windward side evaporating portion 10 is called as an AU evaporating portion 10. The evaporating portion 20 arranged at the downstream side of the air flowing direction X is called as a leeward side evaporating portion 20. Hereafter, the downstream evaporating portion 20 is called as an AD evaporating portion 20.
Two evaporating portions 10 and 20 are arranged on an upstream side and a downstream side with respect to a flow direction of the refrigerant. The refrigerant flows through the AU evaporating portion 10, after flowing through the AD evaporating portion 20. When viewing it about the refrigerant flow direction, the AD evaporating portion 20 is called a first evaporating portion, and the AU evaporating portion 10 is called a second evaporating portion. Since the AD evaporating portion 20 is arranged on the upstream about the refrigerant flow direction, it may be also called as a refrigerant upstream evaporating portion 20. Since the AU evaporating portion 10 is arranged on the downstream about the refrigerant flow direction, it may be also called as a refrigerant downstream evaporating portion 10. By using the refrigerant evaporator 1, a counter-flow-heat-exchanger in which the refrigerant flow direction and the air flow direction are in opposite as a whole is provided.
The fundamental structure of the AU evaporating portion 10 and the AD evaporating portion 20 is the same. The AU evaporating portion 10 has a core part 11 for heat exchange and a pair of tank parts 12 and 13 arranged on both ends of the core part 11. The AD evaporating portion 20 has a core part 21 for heat exchange and a pair of tank parts 22 and 23 arranged on both ends of the core part 21.
The core part 11 in the AU evaporating portion 10 is called as an AU core part 11. The core part 21 in the AD evaporating portion 20 is called as an AD core part 21. A pair of tank parts 12 and 13 in the AU evaporating portion 10 has a first AU tank part 12 arranged on the up side and a second AU tank part 13 arranged on the lower side. Similarly, a pair of tank parts 22 and 23 in the AD evaporating portion 20 has a first AD tank part 22 arranged on the up side and a second AD tank part 23 arranged on the lower side.
The AU core part 11 and the AD core part 21 have a plurality of tubes 11c and 21c and a plurality of fins 11d and 21d. The AU core part 11 and the AD core part 21 are configured by stacked member in which the plurality of tubes 11c and 21c and the plurality of fins 11d and 21d are stacked alternately. The plurality of tubes 11c communicate between a pair of tank parts 12 and 13. The plurality of tubes 21c communicate between a pair of tank parts 22 and 23. In the drawing, the plurality of tubes 11c and 21c extend a top-and-bottom direction. The plurality of fins 11d and 21d are arranged between adjacent tubes 11c and 21c, and are joined to them. In the following description, a stacking direction of the plurality of tubes 11c and 21c and the plurality of fins 11d and 21d in the stacked member is called a tube stacking direction.
The AU core part 11 has the first AU core part 11a and the second AU core part 11b. The first AU core part 11a is configured by a part of the plurality of tubes 11c. The first AU core part 11a is configured by a group of tubes 11c arranged along a line to form a single row. The second AU core part 11b is configured by a remaining part of the plurality of tubes 11c. The second AU core part 11b is configured by a group of tubes 11c arranged along a line to form a single row. The first AU core part 11a and the second AU core part 11b are aligned in the tube stacking direction. The first AU core part 11a is configured by a group of tubes arranged on the right side in the tube stacking direction when viewing it along the air flow direction X. The second AU core part 11b is configured by a group of tubes arranged on the left side of the tube stacking direction when viewing it along the air flow direction X. The first AU core part 11a is arranged closer to a refrigerant outlet 12a of the tank part 12 than the second AU core part 11b.
The tank part 12 is a last collecting tank positioned on the most downstream on the refrigerant flow within the refrigerant evaporator 1. The tank part 12 is a collecting part which is disposed on a downstream end of the refrigerant of the plurality of tubes 11c forming the AU core part 11, and collects the refrigerant passed the AU core part 11. The tank part 12 provides an outlet collecting part which has a refrigerant outlet 12a on the downstream end in the flow direction of the refrigerant.
The AD core part 21 has the first AD core part 21a and the second AD core part 21b. The first AD core part 21a is configured by a part of the plurality of tubes 21c. The first AD core part 21a is configured by a group of tubes 21c arranged along a line to form a single row. The second AD core part 21b is configured by a remaining part of the plurality of tubes 21c. The second AD core part 21b is configured by a group of tubes 21c arranged along a line to form a single row. The first AD core part 21a and the second AD core part 21b are aligned in the tube stacking direction. The first AD core part 21a is configured by a group of tubes arranged on the right side in the tube stacking direction, when viewing it along the air flow direction X. The second AD core part 21b is configured by a group of tubes arranged on the left side in the tube stacking direction, when viewing it along the air flow direction X. The first AD core part 21a is arranged closer to a refrigerant inlet 22a of the tank part 22 than the second AD core part 21b.
The tank part 22 is a first distribution tank positioned on the most upstream on the refrigerant flow within the refrigerant evaporator 1. The tank part 22 is disposed on the upstream end of the refrigerant of the plurality of tubes 11c forming the AD core part 21. The tank part 22 is a distribution part which distributes the refrigerant to the plurality of tubes 21c forming the AD core part 21. The tank part 22 provides an inlet distribution part which has a refrigerant inlet 22a on the upstream end in the flow direction of the refrigerant.
The first AD core part 21a is also called as a first core part. The second AD core part 21b is also called as a second core part. The first AU core part 11a is also called as a third core part. The second AU core part 11b is also called as a fourth core part.
The AU core part 11 and the AD core part 21 are arranged to overlap each other with respect to the air flow direction X. In other words, the AU core part 11 and the AD core part 21 opposes with respect to the air flow direction X. The first AU core part 11a and the first AD core part 21a are arranged to overlap each other with respect to the air flow direction X. In other words, the first AU core part 11a and the first AD core part 21a opposes with respect to the air flow direction X. The second AU core part 11b and the second AD core part 21b are arranged to overlap each other with respect to the air flow direction X. In other words, the second AU core part 11b and the second AD core part 21b opposes with respect to the air flow direction X.
Each of the plurality of tubes 11c and 21c defines and forms a passage which flow the refrigerant therein. Each of the plurality of tubes 11c and 21c is a flat tube. Each of the plurality of tubes 11c and 21c is arranged so that a flat cross section extends along the air flow direction X.
The tubes 11c of the AU core part 11 are connected with the first AU tank part 12 at one ends, i.e., at upper ends, in the longitudinal direction, and are also connected with the second AU tank part 13 at the other ends, i.e., at lower ends, in the longitudinal direction. The second AU tank part 13 provides a distribution part which distributes the refrigerant to the plurality of tubes 11c.
The tubes 21c of the AD core part 21 are connected with the first AD tank part 22 at one ends, i.e., at upper ends, in the longitudinal direction, and are also connected with the second AD tank part 23 at the other ends, i.e., at lower ends, in the longitudinal direction. The second AD tank part 23 provides a collecting part which collects the refrigerant from the plurality of tubes 21c.
Each of the plurality of fins 11d and 21d are joined to flat outer surfaces on the tubes 11c and 21c, and configures a heat exchange facilitating member for increasing a heat transfer area to the air. Each of the plurality of fins 11d and 21d is a corrugate fin. Each of the plurality of fins 11d and 21d is formed by bending a thin plate material into a wave shape.
Side plates 11e and 21e, which reinforce each of the core parts 11 and 12, are disposed on both ends of the stacking member of the tubes 11c and 21c and the fins 11d and 21d in the tube stacking direction. The side plates 11e and 21e are joined to the fins 11d and 21d arranged on the most outside in the tube stacking direction.
The first AU tank part 12 is configured by a cylindrical member. One end of the first AU tank part 12, i.e., the left end on a view along the air flow direction X is closed. The first AU tank part 12 has a refrigerant outlet 12a on the other end, i.e., the right end on a view along the air flow direction X. The refrigerant outlet 12a leads the refrigerant to an intake side of the compressor not illustrated from the inside of the tank. A plurality of through holes into which the one ends of the plurality of tubes 11c are inserted and joined are formed on a bottom of the first AU tank part 12 in the drawing. That is, the first AU tank part 12 is configured so that the inside chamber thereof communicates with the plurality of tubes 11c for the AU core part 11. The first AU tank part 12 works as a collecting part for collecting the refrigerant from the plurality of tubes 11c for the AU core part 11.
The first AD tank part 22 is configured by a cylindrical member. One end of the first AD tank part 22 is closed. The first AD tank part 22 has a refrigerant inlet 22a on the other end. The refrigerant inlet 22a introduces the low pressure refrigerant decompressed by the expansion valve not illustrated. A plurality of through holes into which the one ends of the plurality of tubes 21c are inserted and joined are formed on a bottom of the first AD tank part 22 in the drawing. That is, the first AD tank part 22 is configured so that the inside chamber thereof communicates with the plurality of tubes 21c for the AD core part 21. The first AD tank part 22 works as a distribution part for distributing the refrigerant to the plurality of tubes 21c for the AD core part 21.
The second AU tank part 13 is configured by a cylindrical member with closed both ends. A plurality of through holes into which the other ends of the plurality of tubes 11c are inserted and joined are formed on a top of the second AU tank part 13. That is, the second AU tank part 13 is configured so that the interior chamber thereof communicates with the plurality of tubes 11c. The second AU tank part 13 works as a distribution part for distributing the refrigerant to the plurality of tubes 11c for the AU core part 11.
A partition member 13c is arranged within an inside of the second AU tank part 13 at a center position in the longitudinal direction. The partition member 13c partitions an interior space of the second AU tank part 13 into the first distribution part 13a and the second distribution part 13b. The first distribution part 13a is a chamber which is communicated with the plurality of tubes 11c forming the first AU core part 11a. The first distribution part 13a supplies the refrigerant to the first AU core part 11a. The first distribution part 13a distributes the refrigerant to the plurality of tubes 11c forming the first AU core part 11a. The second distribution part 13b is a chamber which is communicated with the plurality of tubes 11c forming the second AU core part 11b. The second distribution part 13b supplies the refrigerant to the second AU core part 11b. The second distribution part 13b is a chamber which is communicated with the plurality of tubes 11c forming the second AU core part 11b. Therefore, the first distribution part 13a and the second distribution part 13b configure a continuous distribution tank part 13.
The second AD tank part 23 is configured by a cylindrical member with closed both ends. A plurality of through holes into which the one ends of the plurality of tubes 21c are inserted and joined are formed on a top of the second AD tank part 23. That is, the second AD tank part 23 is configured so that the interior chamber thereof communicates with the plurality of tubes 21c.
A partition member 23c is arranged within an inside of the second AD tank part 23 at a center position in the longitudinal direction. The partition member 23c partitions an interior space of the second AD tank part 23 into the first collecting part 23a and the second collecting part 23b. The first collecting part 23a is a chamber which is communicated with the plurality of tubes 21c forming the first AD core part 21a. The first collecting part 23a collects the refrigerant from the plurality of tubes 21c forming the first AD core part 21a. The second collecting part 23b is a chamber which is communicated with the plurality of tubes 21c forming the second AD core part 21b. The second collecting part 23b is a chamber which is communicated with the plurality of tubes 21c forming the second AD core part 21b. The second AD tank part 23 works as a collecting part which collects independently the refrigerant in the first AD core part 21a, and the refrigerants in the second AD core part 21b. Therefore, the first collecting part 23a and the second collecting part 23b configure a continuous collecting tank part 23.
Between the second AU tank part 13 and the second AD tank part 23 is connected through an interchange part 30. The interchange part 30 leads the refrigerant in the first collecting part 23a in the second AD tank part 23 to the second distribution part 13b in the second AU tank part 13. The interchange part 30 leads the refrigerant in the second collecting part 23b in the second AD tank part 23 to the first distribution part 13a in the second AU tank part 13.
That is, the interchange part 30 swaps the refrigerant flows so that the refrigerant passed through one part of the AD core part 21 flows through the other part of the AU core part 11. The one part of the AD core part 21 and the other part of the AU core part 11 do not overlap with respect to the air flow direction X. In other words, the interchange part 30 swaps the refrigerant flowing towards the second AU tank part 13 from the second AD tank part 23 crosses to the air flow direction X. That is, the interchange part 30 is configured to interchange the refrigerant flows in a core width direction in the core part 11 and the core part 21. The interchange part 30 provides a shifting communication part 30 which communicates two core parts which are positioned on positions not to overlap at least partially with respect to the air flow direction X, i.e., on different positions. The shifting communication part 30 communicates the upstream core parts 11a and 11b and the downstream core parts 21a and 21b which are positioned on positions not to overlap at least partially with respect to the flow direction X of the fluid to be cooled, and makes the refrigerant flows in an order thereof. The shifting communication part 30 forms the first passage 33a which communicates the first collecting part 23a and the second distribution part 13b, and the second passage 33b which communicates the second collecting part 23b and the first distribution part 13a.
The interchange part 30 provides the first communicating passage which guides the refrigerant passed through the first AD core part 21a to the second AU core part 11b, and the second communicating passage which guides the refrigerant passed through the second AD core part 21b to the first AU core part 11a. The first communicating passage and the second communicating passage cross.
Specifically, the interchange part 30 has the collecting part communicating portions 31a and 31b, the distribution part communicating portions 32a and 32b, and the middle tank part 33. The plurality of communicating portions 31a, 31b, 32a, and 32b may be provided by a cylindrical member in which a passage for passing the refrigerant is formed, or openings formed on the tank parts 23 and 33 and joined in a face-to-face manner.
The first collecting part communicating portion 31a communicates between the first collecting parts 23a in the second AD tank part 23 and the middle tank parts 33. The first collecting part communicating portion 31a is communicated to a first passage 33a in the middle tank part 33 mentioned later. At least one first collecting part communicating portion 31a is disposed between the first collecting part 23a and the first passage 33a.
The second collecting part communicating portion 31b communicates between the second collecting parts 23b in the second AD tank part 23 and the middle tank parts 33. The second collecting part communicating portion 31b is communicated to a second passage 33b within the middle tank part 33 mentioned later. At least one second collecting part communicating portion 31b is disposed between the second collecting part 23b and the second passage 33b.
The first distribution part communicating portion 32a communicates between the first distribution parts 13a in the second AU tank part 13 and the middle tank parts 33. The first distribution part communicating portion 32a is communicated to a second passage 33b in the middle tank part 33 mentioned later. At least one first distribution part communicating portion 32a is disposed between the first distribution part 13a and the second passage 33b.
The second distribution part communicating portion 32b communicates between the second distribution parts 13b in the second AU tank part 13 and the middle tank parts 33. The second distribution part communicating portion 32b is communicated to a first passage 33a in the middle tank part 33 mentioned later. At least one second distribution part communicating portion 32b is disposed between the second distribution part 13b and the first passage 33a.
The middle tank part 33 is connected with a plurality of collecting part communicating portions 31a and 31b and a plurality of distribution part communicating portions 32a and 32b. The plurality of collecting part communicating portions 31a and 31b provide inlets of the refrigerant in the interchange part 30. The plurality of distribution part communicating portions 32a and 32b provide outlets of the refrigerant in the interchange part 30. The interchange part 30 has a crossing passage in an inside thereof. The wall surface defining the passage gradually changes to swirl in a spiral manner along the flow direction of the refrigerant.
The middle tank part 33 has a cylindrical member 34 having closed both ends. The middle tank part 33 is arranged between the second AU tank part 13 and the second AD tank part 23. The middle tank part 33, when viewing it along the flow direction X of air, is arranged so that a one part of the middle tank part 33, i.e., an upper side part in the drawing overlaps with the second AU tank part 13 and the second AD tank part 23. The middle tank part 33, when viewing it along the flow direction X of air, is arranged so that the other part of the middle tank part 33, i.e., a lower side part in the drawing does not overlap with the second AU tank part 13 and the second AD tank part 23. In other words, the middle tank part 33 is arranged between the tank part 23 for collecting the refrigerant and the tank part 13 for distributing the refrigerant, and is arranged to overlap with the collecting tank part 23 and the distribution tank part 13 along the flow direction X of air. According to this structure, it is possible to decrease size of the collecting tank part 23, the distribution tank part 13, and the middle tank part 33.
This structure makes it possible to arrange the first evaporating portion 10 and the second evaporating portion 20 in a close relation with respect to the flow direction X of air. As a result, it is possible to suppress increase of size of the refrigerant evaporator 1 caused by disposing the middle tank part 33.
The middle tank part 33 is explained based on
As shown in
The partition member 35 is a plate shaped member and has a twisting part. The partition member 35 has a configuration where a plate member is spirally twisted around a center axis in a longitudinal direction of the plate member. As a result, the partition member 35 has a twisted configuration in which a front surface 35a and a back surface 35b alternately appear. The partition member 35 has at least one twisting part 35c. The partition member 35 is twisted at the twisting part 35c. In the illustrated example, the partition member 35 has a plurality of twisting parts 35c. One twisting part 35c is given by a twisting for 180 degrees angle to invert the front surface 35a and the back surface 35b. One twisting part 35c is formed with a twisting angle which is gradually twisted over a predetermined range in the longitudinal direction of the partition member 35. In the illustrated example, the partition member 35 is formed with a plurality of twisting parts 35c continuously arranged. As a result, the edge extended in the longitudinal direction of the partition member 35 extends spirally.
The first passage 33a and the second passage 33b extend in the longitudinal direction of the middle tank part 33 within the middle tank part 33. The first passage 33a and the second passage 33b extend in a spiral manner along about an axis of the longitudinal direction of the middle tank part 33. As a result, along with the longitudinal direction of the middle tank part 33, the first passage 33a and the second passage 33b appear alternately on the outside surface of the middle tank part 33.
The first passage 33a provides a passage which leads the refrigerant from the first collecting part connecting member 31a to the second distribution part connecting member 32b. The second passage 33b provides a passage which leads the refrigerant from the second collecting part connecting member 31b to the first distribution part connecting member 32a.
The first passage 33a in the first collecting part communicating portion 31a, the second distribution part communicating portion 32b, and the middle tank part 33 configures a first communicating portion. The first collecting part communicating portion 31a provides an inlet of the refrigerant in the first communicating portion. The second distribution part communicating portion 32b provides an outlet of the refrigerant in the first communicating portion.
The second passage 33b in the second collecting part communicating portion 31b, the first distribution part communicating portion 32a, and the middle tank part 33 configures a second communicating portion. The second collecting part communicating portion 31b provides an inlet of the refrigerant in the second communicating portion. The first distribution part communicating portion 32a provides an outlet of the refrigerant in the second communicating portion.
The first passage 33a and the second passage 33b are twisted in a spiral manner along the longitudinal direction of the middle tank part 33, i.e., along the flow direction of the refrigerant. In other words, the wall surface which defines the first passage 33a and the second passage 33b gradually changes in a spiral shape. In another viewpoint, the wall surface which defines the first passage 33a and the second passage 33b inclines along the flow direction of the refrigerant, and gradually changes to be inverted along the flow direction.
A low pressure refrigerant decompressed by the expansion valve, not illustrated, is supplied to the refrigerant evaporator 1, as shown to
No matter the refrigerant evaporator 1 is installed in any attitude, the swirling flow of the refrigerant in the interchange part 30 is acquired. Accordingly, component separation of the refrigerant is suppressed, without depending on the installation attitude of the refrigerant evaporator 1. When the refrigerant evaporator 1 is installed to place the interchange part 30 on the bottom of the refrigerant evaporator 1 as shown in the drawing, since the first and the second passages 33a and 33b formed in a spiral shape stir the refrigerant, it is advantageous in order to suppress accumulation of the liquid component.
The refrigerant flows into the second distribution part 13b through the second distribution part communicating portion 32b from the first passage 33a. The refrigerant flows into the first distribution part 13a through the first distribution part communicating portion 32a from the second passage 33b. The refrigerant goes up the second AU core part 11b from the second distribution part 13b. The refrigerant goes up the first AU core part 11a from the first distribution part 13a. The refrigerant flows into the inside of the first AU tank part 12 from the second AU core part 11b. The refrigerant flows into the inside of the first AU tank part 12 from the first AU core part 11a. Therefore, the refrigerant is unified into one flow within the first AU tank part 12 which is the last collecting tank. The refrigerant flows out to the outside of the refrigerant evaporator 1 from the outlet 12a formed on one end of the first AU tank part 12. Then, the refrigerant is supplied to the intake side of the compressor not illustrated.
According to this embodiment, the twisting part 35c makes the refrigerant to flow in a swirling manner. At the interchange part 30, the refrigerant flows while swirling. Accordingly, separation of refrigerant components in the interchange part 30 is suppressed. As a result, unevenness of a refrigerant component distribution in the AU core part 11 is suppressed. Further, unevenness of the temperature distribution in the AU core part 11 is suppressed.
This embodiment is one of modifications based on a basic form provided by the preceding embodiment. In the preceding embodiment, the partition member 35 with the plurality of twisting part 35c is used. Alternatively, in this embodiment, a partition member 235 illustrated in
The partition member 235 has one twisting part 235c on a center portion. The twisting part 235c gives a 180 degrees twisting so that a front surface 235a and a back surface 235b are reversed. According to this structure, the first passage 33a and the second passage 33b are interchanged at the twisting part 235c. According to this structure, a half of the first passage 33a is positioned to oppose with the first collecting part 23a. A remaining half of the first passage 33a is positioned to oppose the second distribution part 13b. Similarly, a half of the second passage 33b is positioned to oppose the second collecting part 23b. A remaining half of the second passage 33b is positioned to oppose the first distribution part 13a.
According to this structure, the partition member 235 has the twisting part 235c on a center of the first passage 33a. Therefore, it is possible to swirl the refrigerant within the first passage 33a. Similarly, on a center of the second passage 33b, the partition member 235 has the twisting part 235c. Therefore, it is possible to swirl the refrigerant within the second passage 33b.
This embodiment is one of modifications based on a basic form provided by the preceding embodiment. The preceding embodiment uses the partition member 35 which has the twisting part 35c for 180 degrees. Alternatively, in this embodiment, a partition member 335 illustrated in
The partition member 335 has a twisting part 335d for 90 degrees on a center thereof. The partition part 335 also has a twisting part 335e for 90 degrees on one end portion thereof. The twisting part 335e is located on an end portion of the middle tank part 33. As a result, the first passage 333a is positioned to oppose to the second AU core part 11b, i.e., the second distribution part 13b, only at the end of the middle tank part 33. In other words, the first passage 333a and the second distribution part 13b are positioned to be able to communicate with each other only at an end portion distanced from the inlet 22a.
A communicating passage is disposed between the first collecting part 23a and the first passage 333a. A communicating passage is disposed between the second collecting part 23b and the second passage 333b. A communicating passage is disposed between the first distribution part 13a and the second passage 333b. A communicating passage is disposed between the second distribution part 13b and the first passage 333a.
In
In
This embodiment is one of modifications based on a basic form provided by the preceding embodiment. In this embodiment, a partition member 435 shown in
The partition member 435 has a plurality of twisting parts 435f. The plurality of twisting parts 435f are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the partition member 435 in a distributed manner. The partition member 435 has the twisting parts 435f, which are twisted for a predetermined angle and are disposed on a plurality of different positions in the longitudinal direction. Positions of the twisting parts 435f and a twisting angle are set to obtain a predetermined mixing effect of the refrigerant components.
This embodiment is one of modifications based on a basic form provided by the preceding embodiment. In the above-mentioned embodiments, two passages are defined and formed within the middle tank part 33. Alternatively, in this embodiment, a partition member 535 partitions an inside of the cylindrical member 34 into three or more passages 533a, 533b, 533c, and 533d.
In
According to this structure, the core parts 11 and 21 are partitioned into three or more. Specifically, the AD core part 21 is partitioned into four, and the AU core part 11 is partitioned into four.
Such structure makes it possible to flow the refrigerant in different sections in the core parts 11 and 21, i.e., the sections which does not overlap along a flow direction of air. Three or more sections enable a choice of various combinations.
For example, either of the combinations illustrated in
A position of the twisting part, a number of the twisting parts, and a twist angle of the twisting part are set so that the partition member 535 provides the selected communicating relationship. According to such structure, it is possible to provide a desirable refrigerant distribution in the AU core part 11 partitioned into a plurality of sections which are three or more.
Alternative of this embodiment, in order to provide three passages, a partition member with a cross section of Y shape which provides three partitions may be used. Similarly, a partition member which provides many partition by a cross section, such as a cross section providing five partitions, or a cross section providing six partitions, e.g., * shape may be used.
This embodiment is one of modifications based on a basic form provided by the preceding embodiment. The preceding embodiments use a plate shaped partition members. Alternatively, as shown in
In this embodiment, the interchange part 30 has the middle tank part 33. The middle tank part 33 has a cylindrical member 634 and a grooved pipe 635 arranged in the cylindrical member 634. The grooved pipe 635 disposed in an inside of the cylindrical member 34 provides a partition member.
The grooved pipe 635 has a single line groove 635g which extends spirally on a cylindrical wall surface thereof. A spirally extending ridge 635h is formed between the groove 635g and the groove 635g. The ridge 635h is in contact with an inner surface of the cylindrical member. The groove 635g is formed by deforming the wall of the grooved pipe 635. Therefore, the groove 635g is formed on an outer surface of the grooved pipe 635. A spiral inwardly protruding ridge corresponding to the groove 635g is formed on an inner surface of the grooved pipe 635. The groove 635g is formed with a predetermined pitch in order to easily form communications to the collecting parts 23a and 23b and the distributing parts 13a and 13b.
The grooved pipe 635 provides a first passage 633a therein. The grooved pipe 635 provides the second passage 633b by the groove 635g. For example, the first collecting part 23a and the second distribution part 13b are communicated by the first passage 633a. This communication can be provided with an opening or tubing which penetrates the cylindrical member 634 and the grooved pipe 635. The second collecting part 23b and the first distribution part 13a may be communicated by the second passage 633b. This communication can be provided with an opening or tubing which penetrates only the cylindrical member 634.
The groove 635g provides the twisting part in the passage formed between the cylindrical member 34 and the spiral tube 635 by the groove 635g itself. Further, the groove 635g provides the twisting part in the passage within the spiral tubes 635 by projecting into the spiral tube 635.
According to this structure, the refrigerant flowing through the first passage 633a flows while swirling by an inwardly projecting ridge in a spiral manner. Accordingly, separation of the refrigerant components within the first passage 633a suppressed. In addition, the refrigerant flowing through the second passage 633b flows through the inside of the groove 635g which extends spirally, and flows in a swirling manner. Accordingly, separation of refrigerant components in the second passage 633b is suppressed.
Alternative to this embodiment, a grooved pipe which has multiple lines, such as three lines or four lines, of grooves may be used.
The present invention may be modified in various ways as mentioned below within a range which do not deviate from the meaning of the present invention, and may be without being limited to above-mentioned embodiment.
(1) In the above-mentioned embodiments, examples which have two first refrigerant inlets 14a with respect to a single second refrigerant outlet 24b are explained. However, the above does not limit, any number may be disposed, as long as there are more first refrigerant inlets 14a than the number of the second refrigerant outlets 24b.
(2) In the above-mentioned embodiments, examples, which has the second refrigerant inlet 14b arranged like the first refrigerant inlet 14a, are explained. However, the above does not limit, a single second refrigerant inlet 14b may be disposed. Two or more second refrigerant inlets 14b and a single first refrigerant inlet 14a may be disposed.
(3) In the above mentioned embodiments, the refrigerant evaporator 1 in which, when viewing from the air flow direction, the first AU core part 11a and the first AD core part 21a are arranged to overlap, and the second AU core part 11b and the second AD core part 21b are arranged to overlap is explained, however, the above does not limit. As a refrigerant evaporator 1, it may be arranged so that, when viewing from the air flow direction, at least a part of the first AU core part 11a and the first AD core part overlap, or at least a part of the second AU core part 11b and the second AD core part overlap.
(4) Although it is desirable to arrange the AU evaporating portion 10 on the upstream side in the air flow direction X rather than the AD evaporating portion 20 in the refrigerant evaporator 1, the above does not limit, the AU evaporating portion 10 may be arranged on the downstream side in the air flow direction X rather than the AD evaporating portion 20.
(5) Although, in the above mentioned embodiments, an example in which each core parts 11 and 21 are configured by a plurality of tubes 111 and 211 and fins 112 and 212 are explained, the above does not limit, each core part 11 and 21 may be configured by only the plurality of tubes 111 and 211. In addition, in a case that each core part 11 and 21 is configured by the plurality of tubes 111 and 211 and fins 112 and 212, it is not restricted to the corrugate fin, and a plate fin may be used for the fins 112 and 212.
(6) Although above-mentioned embodiments are explained about an example which applies the refrigerant evaporator 1 to the refrigeration cycle of the vehicle air-conditioner, it may be applied to the refrigeration cycle used for a water heater etc., for example.
In the preceding embodiments, the refrigerant evaporator 1 has two core parts divided into two layers along the flow direction of the fluid to be cooled. Alternatively, between two core parts arranged in two layer arrangement, a part of or all of fins and/or tubes may be arranged over the two layers. Although, a part where two layers cannot be classified clearly may be created partially, it is still possible to find an upstream core part and a downstream core part within the refrigerant evaporator 1. In addition, a cool storage member may be disposed alternative to or in addition to a part of the fins.
In the preceding embodiments, the refrigerant evaporator 1 is provided by a tank and tube type heat exchanger. Alternatively, the refrigerant evaporator 1 may be provided by the drawn cup type heat exchanger.
Although, in the preceding embodiments, the upstream core part and the downstream core part are communicated only through the middle tank part 33, in addition to the above, a communicating passage which does not pass through the middle tank 33, e.g., a communicating passage between the tank 13b and the tank 23b may be additionally disposed.
In the preceding embodiments, the refrigerant evaporator 1 has the inlet and the outlet on the end of the tank part. Alternatively or additionally, an inlet and/or an outlet may be disposed on a middle part of the tank, e.g., on a center part.
In the preceding embodiments, the partition member 35 and similar ones are disposed over the overall length of the cylindrical member 34, and partition the inside of the cylindrical member 34 into a plurality of chambers over the overall length of the longitudinal direction. Alternatively, the partition member may be disposed only in a part of the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical member 34. A twisting part may be disposed on this partition member too.
The present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments, and the present disclosure may be practiced in various modified embodiments. The present disclosure is not limited to the above combination, and disclosed technical means can be practiced independently or in various combinations. Each embodiment can have an additional part. The part of each embodiment may be omitted. Part of embodiment may be replaced or combined with the part of the other embodiment. The configurations, functions, and advantages of the above-mentioned embodiment are just examples. The technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the descriptions and the drawings. Some extent of the disclosure may be shown by the scope of claim, and also includes the changes, which is equal to and within the same range of the scope of claim.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013-100488 | May 2013 | JP | national |
| 2013-149757 | Jul 2013 | JP | national |
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/JP2014/002459 | 5/9/2014 | WO | 00 |
