US20080184732A1 - Evaporator, in Particular for an Air-Conditioning System of a Motor Vehicle - Google Patents
Evaporator, in Particular for an Air-Conditioning System of a Motor Vehicle Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20080184732A1 US20080184732A1 US11/795,217 US79521706A US2008184732A1 US 20080184732 A1 US20080184732 A1 US 20080184732A1 US 79521706 A US79521706 A US 79521706A US 2008184732 A1 US2008184732 A1 US 2008184732A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- evaporator
- cooling
- cooling element
- evaporator according
- coolant
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F3/00—Plate-like or laminated elements; Assemblies of plate-like or laminated elements
- F28F3/12—Elements constructed in the shape of a hollow panel, e.g. with channels
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60H—ARRANGEMENTS OF HEATING, COOLING, VENTILATING OR OTHER AIR-TREATING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PASSENGER OR GOODS SPACES OF VEHICLES
- B60H1/00—Heating, cooling or ventilating [HVAC] devices
- B60H1/00271—HVAC devices specially adapted for particular vehicle parts or components and being connected to the vehicle HVAC unit
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60H—ARRANGEMENTS OF HEATING, COOLING, VENTILATING OR OTHER AIR-TREATING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PASSENGER OR GOODS SPACES OF VEHICLES
- B60H1/00—Heating, cooling or ventilating [HVAC] devices
- B60H1/00642—Control systems or circuits; Control members or indication devices for heating, cooling or ventilating devices
- B60H1/00814—Control systems or circuits characterised by their output, for controlling particular components of the heating, cooling or ventilating installation
- B60H1/00878—Control systems or circuits characterised by their output, for controlling particular components of the heating, cooling or ventilating installation the components being temperature regulating devices
- B60H1/00885—Controlling the flow of heating or cooling liquid, e.g. valves or pumps
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25B—REFRIGERATION MACHINES, PLANTS OR SYSTEMS; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS
- F25B39/00—Evaporators; Condensers
- F25B39/02—Evaporators
- F25B39/022—Evaporators with plate-like or laminated elements
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D1/00—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators
- F28D1/02—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators with heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid
- F28D1/04—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators with heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid with tubular conduits
- F28D1/0408—Multi-circuit heat exchangers, e.g. integrating different heat exchange sections in the same unit or heat exchangers for more than two fluids
- F28D1/0461—Combination of different types of heat exchanger, e.g. radiator combined with tube-and-shell heat exchanger; Arrangement of conduits for heat exchange between at least two media and for heat exchange between at least one medium and the large body of fluid
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D1/00—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators
- F28D1/02—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators with heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid
- F28D1/04—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators with heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid with tubular conduits
- F28D1/053—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators with heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid with tubular conduits the conduits being straight
- F28D1/0535—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators with heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid with tubular conduits the conduits being straight the conduits having a non-circular cross-section
- F28D1/05366—Assemblies of conduits connected to common headers, e.g. core type radiators
- F28D1/05391—Assemblies of conduits connected to common headers, e.g. core type radiators with multiple rows of conduits or with multi-channel conduits combined with a particular flow pattern, e.g. multi-row multi-stage radiators
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D7/00—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary tubular conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall
- F28D7/0008—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary tubular conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall the conduits for one medium being in heat conductive contact with the conduits for the other medium
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60H—ARRANGEMENTS OF HEATING, COOLING, VENTILATING OR OTHER AIR-TREATING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PASSENGER OR GOODS SPACES OF VEHICLES
- B60H1/00—Heating, cooling or ventilating [HVAC] devices
- B60H1/00271—HVAC devices specially adapted for particular vehicle parts or components and being connected to the vehicle HVAC unit
- B60H2001/00307—Component temperature regulation using a liquid flow
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60H—ARRANGEMENTS OF HEATING, COOLING, VENTILATING OR OTHER AIR-TREATING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PASSENGER OR GOODS SPACES OF VEHICLES
- B60H1/00—Heating, cooling or ventilating [HVAC] devices
- B60H1/00507—Details, e.g. mounting arrangements, desaeration devices
- B60H2001/00614—Cooling of electronic units in air stream
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60H—ARRANGEMENTS OF HEATING, COOLING, VENTILATING OR OTHER AIR-TREATING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PASSENGER OR GOODS SPACES OF VEHICLES
- B60H1/00—Heating, cooling or ventilating [HVAC] devices
- B60H1/00642—Control systems or circuits; Control members or indication devices for heating, cooling or ventilating devices
- B60H1/00814—Control systems or circuits characterised by their output, for controlling particular components of the heating, cooling or ventilating installation
- B60H1/00878—Control systems or circuits characterised by their output, for controlling particular components of the heating, cooling or ventilating installation the components being temperature regulating devices
- B60H2001/00949—Control systems or circuits characterised by their output, for controlling particular components of the heating, cooling or ventilating installation the components being temperature regulating devices comprising additional heating/cooling sources, e.g. second evaporator
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25B—REFRIGERATION MACHINES, PLANTS OR SYSTEMS; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS
- F25B2309/00—Gas cycle refrigeration machines
- F25B2309/06—Compression machines, plants or systems characterised by the refrigerant being carbon dioxide
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25B—REFRIGERATION MACHINES, PLANTS OR SYSTEMS; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS
- F25B25/00—Machines, plants or systems, using a combination of modes of operation covered by two or more of the groups F25B1/00 - F25B23/00
- F25B25/005—Machines, plants or systems, using a combination of modes of operation covered by two or more of the groups F25B1/00 - F25B23/00 using primary and secondary systems
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25B—REFRIGERATION MACHINES, PLANTS OR SYSTEMS; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS
- F25B9/00—Compression machines, plants or systems, in which the refrigerant is air or other gas of low boiling point
- F25B9/002—Compression machines, plants or systems, in which the refrigerant is air or other gas of low boiling point characterised by the refrigerant
- F25B9/008—Compression machines, plants or systems, in which the refrigerant is air or other gas of low boiling point characterised by the refrigerant the refrigerant being carbon dioxide
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D21/00—Heat-exchange apparatus not covered by any of the groups F28D1/00 - F28D20/00
- F28D2021/0019—Other heat exchangers for particular applications; Heat exchange systems not otherwise provided for
- F28D2021/0028—Other heat exchangers for particular applications; Heat exchange systems not otherwise provided for for cooling heat generating elements, e.g. for cooling electronic components or electric devices
- F28D2021/0031—Radiators for recooling a coolant of cooling systems
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D21/00—Heat-exchange apparatus not covered by any of the groups F28D1/00 - F28D20/00
- F28D2021/0019—Other heat exchangers for particular applications; Heat exchange systems not otherwise provided for
- F28D2021/008—Other heat exchangers for particular applications; Heat exchange systems not otherwise provided for for vehicles
- F28D2021/0085—Evaporators
Definitions
- the invention relates to an evaporator, especially for an air-conditioning system of a motor vehicle.
- Evaporators for motor vehicle air-conditioning systems are known in various constructions as mechanically joined round tube systems and also perforated flat tube, plate, or tray heat exchangers.
- a perforated, double-row flat-tube evaporator is known through DE 198 26 881 A1 by the applicant, wherein corrugated fins are arranged between the flat tubes which are impinged upon by surrounding air that is cooled in the evaporator and fed into the inner compartment of the vehicle.
- the evaporator is embedded in a refrigerant circuit of the air-conditioning system and carries a flow of refrigerant (R134a).
- a perforated tray evaporator is known, for example, from DE 198 14 050, wherein corrugated fins that can be impinged upon by surrounding air are also arranged here between the trays.
- the evaporator is arranged in an air-conditioning device within an air channel.
- a cooling device for increasing the cooling effect, a cooling device is proposed in DE 41 31 739 A1 having a hollow space that carries a flow of cooling fluid for heat transfer.
- the hollow space has turbulence inserts for increasing the heat transfer and is connected to the electronic unit via a base plate in a heat conductive way.
- a similar cooling device for electronic components is proposed by the applicant in DE 199 11 205 A1, wherein a hollow space carries a flow of a liquid coolant that is removed from and fed back to a coolant radiator of a motor vehicle cooling circuit.
- a cooling device for electronic components wherein the components are connected directly to a coolant radiator of a motor vehicle in a heat-conductive connection, for example, arranged on the side parts or the coolant box of the radiator.
- the heat to be discharged thus flows directly into the coolant of the radiator via heat conduction.
- a disadvantage in the known proposals mentioned above is that the heat that can be discharged is limited by the existing temperature of the coolant, whether it is an air flow or a liquid flow.
- both the cooling air flow and also a coolant flow removed from the coolant radiator have a relatively high temperature.
- the cooling power is also limited.
- the task of the present invention is to create a device for cooling loads generating heat, especially in a motor vehicle and preferably for electronic components, which allows a higher cooling power.
- an evaporator especially in a motor vehicle air-conditioning system, is used for cooling purposes, and at least one cooling element is implemented in the evaporator that can carry a coolant flow.
- the cooling element is located in heat-conductive contact with the evaporator, especially with its flow channels guiding the refrigerant, so that the heat absorbed by the coolant can be released to the refrigerant, which has a relatively low temperature in the evaporator.
- the cooling element is connected to a cooling circuit, a so-called secondary circuit, guiding the coolant that absorbs heat from loads to be cooled and transports it to the evaporator, which acts as a heat sink.
- the evaporator itself is not changed in its operation, thus there is also no intervention in the refrigerant circuit of the air-conditioning system.
- any type of evaporator is possible as a heat sink for the cooling according to the invention, but preferably flat tube, plate, or tray evaporators are used that offer smooth surfaces for connection to the cooling element according to the invention. Soldering the cooling element to parts of the evaporator, whereby an especially good heat transfer is achieved, is advantageous.
- the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator is arbitrary, i.e., either a conventional refrigerant, such as R134a, or an alternative refrigerant, such as R744 (carbon dioxide) can be used.
- CO 2 evaporators also offer good possibilities for integrating at least one cooling element according to the invention.
- the cooling element or elements integrated into the evaporator can carry a flow of coolant, preferably a water-Glysantin mixture, and are connected to a separate cooling circuit, a secondary circuit. Individual loads generating heat, e.g., electronic components, are assigned to this secondary circuit, with the coolant of the secondary circuit being led past these components.
- coolant preferably a water-Glysantin mixture
- Individual loads generating heat e.g., electronic components
- the cooling element according to the invention is preferably constructed as a rectangular tube, i.e., box-shaped, wherein it preferably takes up the space between two adjacent flat tubes, plates, or trays. This space is taken up by a corrugated fin in standard evaporators.
- the cooling element thus takes the place of the corrugated fin and fills its space, wherein—as mentioned—the heat conduction can be increased considerably through soldering.
- the cooling element can also be arranged between two corrugated fins or between a flat tube (tray or plate) and one corrugated fin, and soldered to these parts.
- the cooling element can carry one or more flows, i.e., it can carry a flow of coolant in two or more directions with reversal, whereby the cooling power can be influenced in this way.
- turbulence inserts can be provided that can also be soldered to the walls of the cooling element.
- the cooling element is connected on the coolant side to the secondary circuit via an inlet and outlet port, wherein the coolant can be circulated by a pump.
- the evaporator has at least one cooling element that is connected to at least one outer flat tube with a material fit, especially through soldering, welding, adhesion, etc., and/or especially with a positive fit through clips, screws, etc.
- a side part, especially two side parts, of the evaporator are advantageously eliminated and costs are reduced.
- the width of the cooling element can be selected arbitrarily according to the required cooling power and is not dependent on the modular dimensions of tubes, especially flat tubes, and/or fins, especially corrugated fins.
- the evaporator has at least one first cooling element and at least one second cooling element which can carry a flow, especially advantageously in series.
- the evaporator has at least one first cooling element and at least one second cooling element which can carry a flow in parallel.
- At least one cooling element replaces at least one side part of the evaporator and delimits, in particular, the tube block. Therefore, in an especially advantageous way, at least one part, especially two parts, are eliminated, and thus the costs are advantageously reduced.
- the cooling element is flush with at least one of the collecting tanks in another advantageous construction and is connected, in particular, to at least one of the collecting tanks with a material fit, especially through soldering, welding, adhesion, etc.
- the cooling element does not terminate flush with at least one collecting tank and is not connected to at least one collecting tank.
- At least one cooling element of the evaporator has a width that is independent of at least one modular dimension of at least one tube, especially a flat tube, and/or at least one fin, especially a corrugated fin.
- At least one cooling element of the evaporator has a width that is dependent on at least one modular dimension of at least one tube, especially a flat tube, and/or at least one fin, especially a corrugated fin.
- a cooling device with a secondary circuit that can be alternatively connected to the engine cooling circuit of a motor vehicle or to a heating body arranged in the engine cooling circuit.
- the secondary cooling circuit is redundant in case of a failed air-conditioning system.
- the coolant of the secondary circuit is then cooled in the heating body, through which there is a flow of air.
- the cooling of the electronics can thus be maintained.
- the heating body is connected or disconnected by means of thermostatic valves or electrically controllable multi-port valves.
- a controllable short circuit is provided between the feed and return line of the secondary circuit, whereby condensation can be prevented.
- an additional heat exchanger which is connected to a secondary circuit for cooling loads, especially electronic components, is connected downstream on the air side of the evaporator of a motor vehicle air conditioning system.
- the additional heat exchanger preferably a serpentine heat exchanger, is cooled by the cold air leaving the evaporator and thus acts as a heat sink for the secondary cooling circuit.
- the additional heat exchanger which has a relatively small depth in the direction of air flow, can be installed between the evaporator and heating body of a conventional air-conditioning system, without requiring additional installation space.
- at least one cooling element ( 5 ) which can be cross-flown by a coolant ( 5 ) is connected in a thermally conductive manner to the evaporator ( 1 ) and is connected to a secondary circuit ( 6 ) which acts as a cooler for the consumers, in particular electronic components ( 8 ).
- One object of the present disclosure is to describe an improved evaporator for the air-conditioning system of a motor vehicle.
- FIG. 1 is a refrigerant circuit with an evaporator according to the invention with a secondary circuit.
- FIGS. 2 , 2 a illustrate a flat tube evaporator according to the invention with integrated cooling element.
- FIGS. 3 , 3 a illustrate a flat tube evaporator with two integrated cooling elements.
- FIGS. 4 , 4 a illustrate an evaporator for an alternative refrigerant (CO 2 ) with integrated cooling element.
- FIGS. 5 , 5 a , 5 b , 5 c illustrate a cooling element that can carry double flow.
- FIGS. 6 , 6 a illustrate a cooling element that can carry single flow.
- FIG. 7 a illustrates a cooling element that can carry double flow.
- FIGS. 7 b, c, d illustrate a cooling element that can carry single flow.
- FIGS. 8 a , 8 b , 8 c , 8 d , 8 e illustrate various arrangements of cooling elements in the evaporator.
- FIG. 9 a illustrates a front view of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.
- FIG. 9 b illustrates an isometric representation of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.
- FIG. 9 c illustrates a cooling element that can carry double flow.
- FIG. 10 a illustrates a front view of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.
- FIG. 10 b illustrates an isometric representation of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.
- FIG. 10 c illustrates an isometric representation of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.
- FIG. 10 d illustrates a cooling element that can carry single flow.
- FIG. 11 a illustrates a rear view of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.
- FIG. 11 b illustrates an isometric representation of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.
- FIG. 11 c illustrates a cooling element that can carry single flow.
- FIG. 1 shows a double-row flat tube evaporator 1 , which is connected on the refrigerant side to a refrigerant circuit 2 of a not-shown motor vehicle air-conditioning system.
- a condenser 3 and a compressor in the refrigerant circuit.
- the evaporator 1 corresponds in its construction essentially to the state of the art mentioned above (DE 198 26 881 A1 by the applicant) and carries a flow of conventional refrigerant (R134a).
- the evaporator 1 thus has a block 1 a consisting of non-designated flat tubes and corrugated fins, as well as top and bottom collecting tanks 1 b , 1 c .
- a cooling element 5 is implemented in the evaporator 1 that is connected to a secondary circuit 6 .
- a cooling body 7 which is connected in a heat conductive way to an electronic component 8 to be cooled, is arranged as an example of a load.
- the cooling element 5 , secondary circuit 6 , and cooling body 7 carry a flow of coolant, preferably a liquid coolant, a water-Glysantin mixture, wherein the coolant can be circulated by a not-shown pump.
- the secondary circuit 6 which thus acts as a cooling circuit, other not-shown loads can be arranged that are also cooled by the coolant flow.
- the cooling element 5 outputs the heat absorbed by the coolant to the evaporator or the refrigerant, i.e., the evaporator 1 acts as a heat sink for the cooling circuit 6 .
- the primary function of the evaporator, to cool air for the interior of the vehicle, is not negatively affected by the connection of the secondary circuit 6 . There is also no intervention into the refrigerant circuit 2 .
- FIGS. 2 and 2 a show a flat tube evaporator 10 in a view from the front as well as in a 3D representation.
- the evaporator 10 has flat tubes 10 a , between which there are corrugated fins 10 b that are impinged upon by the surrounding air.
- a cooling element 11 In the middle region of the evaporator 10 between two flat tubes 10 a there is a cooling element 11 that is heat conductively connected, preferably through soldering, to the flat tubes 10 a .
- the cooling element 11 has an inlet port 11 a and an outlet port 11 b for connecting to the secondary or coolant circuit (cf. secondary circuit 6 in FIG. 1 ), not shown here, in its bottom region (in the drawing).
- the flat tube evaporator 10 has a refrigerant connection flange 10 c which is connected on one side to a not-shown refrigerant circuit of the motor vehicle air-conditioning system, and on the other side to the evaporator 10 or its collecting tanks via connection tubes 10 d , 10 e .
- the evaporator 10 carries a flow of air in the direction of the arrow L, which is cooled in the evaporator and is fed to a not-shown passenger compartment of the motor vehicle.
- FIGS. 3 and 3 a show another embodiment of the invention in the form of a flat tube evaporator 20 , in a view from the front and in an oblique representation.
- the construction of the flat tube evaporator 20 corresponds essentially to the construction of the evaporator according to FIGS. 2 and 2 a with the difference that here two cooling elements 21 , 22 are integrated into the evaporator block, i.e., each between two adjacent flat tubes.
- the cooling elements 21 , 22 correspond in their construction to the cooling element 11 according to FIGS. 2 , 2 a , i.e., they also have connection ports 21 a , 21 b and also 22 a , 22 b .
- Both cooling elements 21 , 22 are also connected to the secondary circuit, not shown here. By multiplying the number of cooling elements, the cooling capacity of the secondary circuit is increased accordingly—but at the cost of the secondary-side heat exchange surface area (corrugated fins) of the evaporator.
- FIGS. 4 and 4 a show another embodiment of the invention in the form of an evaporator 30 , in a view from the front and in a 3D representation.
- the evaporator 30 corresponds essentially also to the state of the art and is operated with an alternative refrigerant, CO 2 or R744, which means a pressure-tight construction for the individual evaporator components.
- the evaporator 30 has U-shaped or serpentine-shaped flat tubes 31 (preferably multiple-chamber tubes), between which are arranged corrugated fins, not shown here.
- the evaporator 30 is connected via connection tubes 32 , 33 to a not-shown CO 2 refrigerant circuit of a motor vehicle air-conditioning system, wherein the connection tubes 32 , 33 each transition into a distributor or collection tube 32 ′, 33 ′.
- the distribution of the refrigerant is performed in a collecting tank 34 , which is shown in FIG. 4 a in an exploded view.
- This evaporator type is also known from the state of the art, for example, DE 102 60 030 A1 by the applicant. Other constructions for evaporators operated with CO 2 are known through DE 100 25 362 A1.
- a cooling element 35 is integrated in the evaporator 30 , approximately in the middle region, and arranged between two adjacent flat tubes 31 , i.e., preferably soldered together with the adjacent flat tubes.
- the cooling element 35 has connection ports 35 a , 35 b in its lower region for connection to the secondary circuit mentioned above that serves to cool loads generating heat.
- FIGS. 5 , 5 a , 5 b , 5 c show as an individual part a cooling element 60 that corresponds to the cooling elements 5 , 11 , 21 , 22 , 35 mentioned above.
- the cooling element 60 is also composed of aluminum materials and can thus be soldered to the evaporator.
- the cooling element 60 is formed as a rectangular tube 61 in which a holder frame 62 is inserted that closes the tube 61 on the end.
- the two connection ports 60 a , 60 b are arranged on the narrow side of the rectangular tube 60 .
- FIG. 5 a shows the interior of the rectangular tube 60 , wherein an angled separating wall 63 is arranged between the coolant inlet 60 a and the coolant outlet 60 b .
- the cooling element 60 carries a double flow.
- Flow arrows E for the inflow of the coolant and U for the reversal of the coolant are shown in FIG. 5 c .
- the U-shaped flow channel is filled with a turbulence plate 64 , which is shown in cross section in FIG. 5 c . It can be soldered to the rectangular tube 60 .
- the coolant is preferably a fluid heat carrier, especially a water-Glysantin mixture.
- FIGS. 6 and 6 a show another embodiment of a cooling element 70 that can carry a single flow.
- the cooling element 70 is also constructed as a rectangular tube 71 and has an inlet port 70 a on the narrow side in its bottom region and an outlet port 70 b on the same side in its upper region for connection to the secondary circuit, not shown here.
- the interior, i.e., the flow path of the coolant through the cooling element 70 is shown by means of an inlet-side flow arrow E and an outlet-side flow arrow A.
- a turbulence plate 72 that leaves spaces 73 , 74 free for the distribution and collection of the coolant within the cooling element 70 .
- the turbulence plate 72 Through the turbulence plate 72 , the heat transfer from the coolant to the rectangular tube and thus also to the refrigerant is improved. Compared with the embodiment according to FIGS. 5 to 5 c with a double flow, a smaller coolant-side pressure drop, but also a smaller cooling output is produced for the single flow.
- the turbulence plate 72 instead of the turbulence plate 72 , other means increasing the heat transfer are also possible, e.g., simple internal ribbing.
- FIGS. 7 a , 7 b , 7 c , 7 d show additional embodiments for a cooling element. Identical features are designated with the same reference symbols as in the preceding figures.
- FIG. 7 a corresponds to FIG. 5 b.
- FIG. 7 b shows another embodiment for a cooling element 90 that can carry a single flow.
- the cooling element 90 is also constructed as a rectangular tube and has an inlet port 90 a on the narrow side in its bottom region and an outlet port 90 b in its upper region for connecting to the secondary circuit, not shown here.
- the interior, i.e., the flow path of the coolant through the cooling element 90 is shown by inlet-side flow arrows E and outlet-side flow arrows A.
- a turbulence plate 92 that leaves spaces free for the distribution and collection of the coolant within the cooling element 90 .
- the inlet and outlet ports 90 a , 90 b are arranged on the opposite side.
- FIG. 7 c corresponds to FIG. 6 a.
- FIG. 7 d shows another embodiment for a cooling element 100 that can carry a single flow.
- the cooling element 100 is also constructed as a rectangular tube and has an inlet port 100 a on the narrow side in its lower region and, in contrast to FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 c , has an outlet port 100 b in its upper region on the opposite side of the cooling element 100 for connection to the secondary circuit, not shown here.
- FIGS. 8 a , 8 b , 8 c , 8 d , 8 e show various possibilities for the arrangement or integration of cooling elements in an evaporator. Identical features are designated with the same reference symbols as in the preceding figures.
- a cooling element 80 is arranged between adjacent flat tubes 81 of a double-flow flat tube evaporator.
- the walls of the cooling element 80 contact the flat tubes 81 directly and are preferably soldered to these tubes, which produces an excellent heat transfer.
- the heat released by the coolant in the cooling element 80 flows directly into the flat tubes 81 in which the refrigerant is flowing.
- Corrugated fins 82 which are also soldered to the flat tubes 81 , are arranged on the sides of the flat tubes 81 facing away from the cooling element 80 .
- FIG. 8 b shows another embodiment, two cooling elements 80 that are each arranged between adjacent flat tubes 81 .
- the two cooling elements 80 release their heat on one side to the middle, and on the other side to the two outer, flat tubes 81 .
- FIG. 8 c shows another asymmetric arrangement, wherein the cooling element 80 contacts on one side, i.e., with one broad side, the flat tubes 81 and on the other side, i.e., with the other broad side, corrugated fins 82 . All of the parts are soldered to each other, so that the heat is released from the cooling element 80 on one side into the flat tubes 81 and on the other side via the corrugated fins 82 to the air flowing above, shown by arrows L.
- FIG. 8 d shows another embodiment, wherein the cooling element 80 is arranged directly between adjacent corrugated fins 82 that are in heat-conductive contact with flat tubes 81 on the other side.
- the heat generated by the cooling element 80 flows via heat conduction directly into the corrugated fins 82 and is released on both sides to the surrounding air flowing over the corrugated fins 82 .
- FIG. 8 e shows another embodiment.
- the flat tube evaporator has at least one flat tube 81 , especially several flat tubes 81 , as well as at least one outer flat tube 83 , especially two outer flat tubes.
- the outer flat tube 83 has a first inner side 84 , which is arranged adjacent to a corrugated fin 82 , or in another, not-shown embodiment adjacent to a flat tube 81 .
- the outer flat tube 83 has an essentially parallel second outer side 85 .
- the second outer side 85 of the outer flat tube 83 is connected with a material fit to the cooling element 80 , especially through soldering, welding, adhesion, etc., whereby an excellent heat transfer is produced.
- the heat released from the coolant in the cooling element 80 flows directly into the outer flat tube 83 in which the refrigerant flows.
- Especially advantageous is to replace at least one side part, which delimits, in particular, the tube block to the outside, by the cooling element 80 .
- two side parts, which each delimit the tube block to the outside, are replaced by two cooling elements. In this way, at least one side part is eliminated and the costs are reduced.
- the second outer side 85 of the outer flat tube 83 is connected to the cooling element 80 with a positive fit, especially with a clip connection, screw connection, etc., or with a positive and material fit.
- a cooling element 80 is connected to at least one second outer side 85 of an outer flat tube 83 .
- the flat tube evaporator has two outer flat tubes 83 , one on each outer side.
- Each cooling element 80 is connected to an outer flat tube 83 , especially with a material fit through soldering, welding, adhesion, etc., so that the flat tube evaporator has a total of two cooling elements 80 .
- the flat tube evaporator has more than two cooling elements.
- One cooling element 80 is connected to an outer flat tube, at least one other cooling element 80 , especially several other cooling elements 80 , [these] are arranged between two flat tubes 81 in a first variant or between two corrugated fins 82 in a second variant or between a flat tube and a corrugated fin in a third variant, and connected to these parts or arranged as a combination of the three variants.
- FIG. 9 a shows the front view of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the evaporator block on the outside.
- FIG. 9 b shows the associated isometric representation of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the evaporator block on the outside.
- FIG. 9 c shows the associated cooling element. Identical features are provided with the same reference symbols as in the preceding figures.
- FIGS. 9 a , 9 b show a flat tube evaporator 270 , which is connected on the refrigerant side to a refrigerant circuit 300 of a not-shown motor vehicle air-conditioning system.
- a condenser 280 and a compressor 290 are arranged next to the evaporator 270 .
- the evaporator 270 corresponds in its construction essentially to the state of the art (DE 198 26 881 A1 by the applicant) mentioned above and carries a flow of a conventional refrigerant (R134a).
- R134a conventional refrigerant
- it is operated with an alternative refrigerant CO 2 or R744.
- the evaporator 270 thus has flat tubes 230 and outer flat tubes 220 on undesignated corrugated fins, as well as upper and lower collecting tanks 230 and 320 .
- a block 370 has the flat tube 230 , two outer flat tubes 220 , and also undesignated corrugated fins.
- the block 370 is delimited on two opposing sides by a cooling element 210 .
- At least one cooling element 210 in particular each cooling element 210 , is connected to a secondary circuit 380 .
- the secondary circuit 380 has at least one feed line 350 and at least one return line 360 .
- the secondary circuit has at least one load with at least one cooling body 330 , which is heat-conductively connected to at least one electronic component 340 to be cooled.
- the return line 360 is arranged upstream of the cooling body 330 and is connected to at least one outlet connection 260 of the cooling element 210 .
- the feed line is arranged downstream of the cooling body 330 and is connected to at least one inlet connection 250 of the cooling element 210 .
- the cooling element 210 , secondary circuit 380 , and cooling body 330 carry a coolant, preferably a fluid coolant, especially a water-Glysantin mixture, wherein the coolant can be circulated by a not-shown pump. Other not-shown loads can be arranged, which are likewise cooled by the coolant flow, in the secondary circuit 380 , which thus acts as a cooling circuit.
- the one or more cooling elements 210 transfer the heat absorbed by the coolant to the one or more outer flat tubes 220 and thus to the evaporator 270 and the refrigerant, i.e., the evaporator 270 acts as a heat sink for the cooling circuit 380 .
- the one or more cooling elements 210 are arranged adjacent and especially parallel to the outer flat tube 220 of the evaporator 270 , and in particular are connected to the outer side of the flat tube in a conductive, especially a heat-conductive way and with a material fit, especially through soldering, welding, adhesion, etc., and/or with a positive fit, especially through clips, screws, etc.
- only one cooling element 210 can be connected to an outer flat tube 220 .
- a cooling element is connected to each of the two outer flat tubes 220 , so that at least two cooling elements 210 are connected to the evaporator 270 .
- the width 390 of the cooling element can be designed as larger or smaller according to the required cooling power.
- the width 390 of the cooling element must be adapted to the modular dimensions of the flat tubes or the corrugated fins.
- the width 390 of the cooling element 210 can be steplessly variable.
- the number of cooling elements, and the width 390 according to the cooling power required in the secondary circuit 380 can be assembled as in a modular system.
- the one or more inlet connections 250 and one or more outlet connections 260 are arranged essentially parallel to each other, in the embodiment essentially adjacent to the lower collection tube 320 .
- the cooling element 210 comprises a first outer face 390 , a second outer face 400 , and also a third outer face 410 .
- the cooling element has a fourth outer face, which has essentially the size of the first outer face 390 and which is arranged essentially parallel to this face, a fifth outer face, which has essentially the size of the second outer face 400 and which is arranged essentially parallel to this face, and also another sixth outer face, which has essentially the size of the third outer face 410 and which is arranged essentially parallel to this face.
- the one or more inlet connections 250 and the one or more outlet connections are arranged on at least the first outer face 390 , and/or the second outer face 400 and/or the third outer face 410 and/or the fourth outer face and/or the sixth outer face, wherein the inlet connections 250 and the outlet connections 260 can be arranged on the same outer face of the same cooling element 210 or the inlet connections 250 can be arranged on a different outer face of the same cooling element 210 than the face on which the outlet connections 260 are arranged.
- FIG. 9 c corresponds to FIG. 7 a and shows a section through the cooling element 210 . Identical elements are here designated with the same reference symbols as in the preceding figures.
- the cooling element 210 can also be formed as shown in FIG. 7 b , 7 c , or 7 d.
- FIG. 10 a shows the front view of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.
- FIG. 10 b shows the isometric representation of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.
- FIG. 10 c shows the isometric representation of another embodiment of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.
- FIG. 10 d shows a cooling element that can carry a single flow. Identical features are provided with the same reference symbols as in the preceding figures.
- FIGS. 10 a and 10 b show a cooling element 510 .
- the inlet connection 550 is arranged in the lower region of the cooling element 510 , essentially adjacent to the lower collecting tank 320
- the outlet connection 560 is arranged in the upper region of the cooling element 510 , essentially adjacent to the upper collecting tank 310 .
- a second cooling element 520 has an inlet connection 550 in the upper region of the cooling element 520 , essentially adjacent to the upper collecting tank 310 , and an outlet connection 560 in the lower region of the cooling element 520 , essentially adjacent to the lower collecting tank 320 .
- the secondary cooling circuit 680 has a feed line 650 and a return line 660 .
- the coolant flows through the first cooling element 510 and the second cooling element 520 in series.
- the coolant of the secondary circuit 680 enters into the cooling element 510 on the feed side 650 via the inlet connection 550 , flows through this cooling element, and leaves this cooling element 510 via the outlet connection 560 .
- the coolant then flows via a not-shown line to the inlet connection 550 of the second cooling element 520 , flows through this cooling element, and emerges from the second cooling element 520 via the outlet connection.
- the reverse direction of flow is also possible.
- FIG. 10 c shows another embodiment.
- Two cooling elements 710 of an evaporator 770 each comprise an inlet connection 750 , which is arranged in the lower region of the cooling element 710 essentially adjacent to the lower collecting tank 320 , and an outlet connection 760 , which is arranged in the upper region of the cooling element 710 essentially adjacent to the upper collecting tank 310 .
- the secondary cooling circuit 880 has a feed line 850 and a return line 860 . The coolant flows through the first cooling element 710 and the second cooling element 710 in parallel.
- the coolant of the secondary circuit 880 branches at a not-shown position on the feed side 850 and enters the respective cooling element 710 via the inlet connection 750 , flows through this cooling element, and leaves the respective cooling element 510 [sic; 710 ] via the outlet connection 760 .
- the two discharged coolant flows combine at a not-shown position in the return line 860 .
- the reverse direction of flow is also possible.
- FIG. 10 d corresponds to FIG. 7 c and shows a section through the cooling elements 510 , 520 , 710 .
- Identical elements are here designated with the same reference symbols as in the preceding figures.
- the cooling elements 510 , 520 , 710 can also be formed as shown in FIG. 7 a , 7 b , or 7 d.
- FIG. 11 a shows the rear view of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.
- FIG. 11 b shows an isometric representation of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.
- FIG. 11 c shows a cooling element that can carry a single flow. Identical features are provided with the same reference symbols as in the preceding figures.
- the cooling element 910 has an inlet connection 950 and an outlet connection 960 on the rear side instead of on the front side.
- FIG. 11 c corresponds to FIG. 10 d and shows the cooling element 910 .
- a cooling device is contemplated as another embodiment of the invention consisting of an evaporator that is arranged in a refrigerant circuit of a not-shown motor vehicle, a secondary circuit, and also a radiator that is arranged in the cooling circuit of a not-shown internal combustion engine of the motor vehicle.
- Evaporator, refrigerant circuit, and secondary circuit correspond to the embodiment according to FIG. 1 and the subsequent figures.
- the secondary circuit is used—as described above—for cooling loads generating heat, especially not-shown electronic components, wherein the evaporator is used with at least one cooling element, not shown here, as a heat sink.
- the secondary circuit has a feed line and a return line and is connected via connection lines to the radiator such that this is connected parallel to the not-shown cooling element arranged on the evaporator.
- the cooling circuit of the internal combustion engine (engine cooling circuit) and the secondary circuit both have the same coolant.
- the radiator is connected alternatively, i.e., instead of the cooling element, in the event that the air-conditioning system in the motor vehicle fails, and thus the evaporator is not functional. Activation is realized via not-shown thermostatically or electrically controllable valves in the feed line or return line.
- the radiator which is also part of the not-shown air-conditioning system, is impinged upon by air on the secondary side, so that cooling of the coolant and thus of the secondary circuit can be realized.
- the radiator is thus used as an alternative to the evaporator as a heat sink for the secondary circuit.
- a short-circuit line between the feed line and return line that can be controlled via a not-shown thermostatic valve and that adjusts the temperature of the return line for the purpose of preventing condensation at a certain temperature.
- a cooling device has an evaporator and an additional heat exchanger arranged behind the evaporator in the direction of air flow.
- the evaporator is part of a not-shown motor vehicle air-conditioning system and is connected to a refrigerant circuit.
- the construction of the evaporator corresponds to the state of the art—here a flat tube evaporator whose flat tubes, not shown, carry a flow of refrigerant of the refrigerant circuit, while a flow of air passes through the similarly not-shown fins between the flat tubes.
- the air is thus cooled in the evaporator and encounters the additional heat exchanger, which is preferably formed as a serpentine heat exchanger with a flat tube having multiple reversals, after emerging from the evaporator.
- the serpentine heat exchanger has two connections by means of which it is connected to a secondary circuit that corresponds to the secondary circuits described above and which is used for cooling loads generating heat, especially electronic components in the motor vehicle.
- the additional heat exchanger is cooled by the air cooled in the evaporator and is thus used as a heat sink for the secondary circuit, wherein the evaporator acts indirectly as a heat sink—via the air.
- the additional heat exchanger which has a relatively small depth in the direction of the air flow, is arranged between the evaporator and a heating body that is connected to the cooling circuit of the internal combustion engine.
- the end face of the additional heat exchanger can correspond approximately to the end face of the evaporator.
- the volume flow of the coolant in the additional heat exchanger is relatively small—in this respect connecting the individual tubes in succession, e.g., in the form of the serpentine heat exchanger, is advantageous.
- the additional heat exchanger can be connected mechanically or with a material fit (e.g., through soldering) to the evaporator or to the heating body and thus can be integrated into a standard air-conditioning system.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Thermal Sciences (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Air-Conditioning For Vehicles (AREA)
- Cooling Or The Like Of Electrical Apparatus (AREA)
- Heat-Exchange Devices With Radiators And Conduit Assemblies (AREA)
- Details Of Heat-Exchange And Heat-Transfer (AREA)
Abstract
The invention relates to an evaporator (1), in particular for an air-conditioning system of a motor vehicle, comprising flow channels for a coolant and ribs which can be impinged upon by air and which are arranged on the outside of the flow channels. According to the invention, at least one cooling element (5) which can be cross-flown by a coolant (5) is connected in a thermally conductive manner to the evaporator (1) and is connected to a secondary circuit (6) which acts as a cooler for the consumers, in particular electronic components (8).
Description
- This application is a National Stage filing of International Application PCT/EP2006/000318, filed Jan. 16, 2006, claiming priority to German Application No. 10 2005 002 060.7, filed Jan. 14, 2005 and also claiming priority to German Application No. 10 2005 049 406.4, filed Oct. 13, 2005, entitled “EVAPORATOR, IN PARTICULAR FOR AN AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEM OF A MOTOR VEHICLE”. The subject application claims priority to PCT/EP2006/000318 and to German Application Nos. 10 2005 002 060.7 and 10 2005 049 406.4, and all three references are expressly incorporated by reference herein, in their entirety.
- The invention relates to an evaporator, especially for an air-conditioning system of a motor vehicle.
- Evaporators for motor vehicle air-conditioning systems are known in various constructions as mechanically joined round tube systems and also perforated flat tube, plate, or tray heat exchangers. A perforated, double-row flat-tube evaporator is known through DE 198 26 881 A1 by the applicant, wherein corrugated fins are arranged between the flat tubes which are impinged upon by surrounding air that is cooled in the evaporator and fed into the inner compartment of the vehicle. The evaporator is embedded in a refrigerant circuit of the air-conditioning system and carries a flow of refrigerant (R134a). A perforated tray evaporator is known, for example, from DE 198 14 050, wherein corrugated fins that can be impinged upon by surrounding air are also arranged here between the trays. The evaporator is arranged in an air-conditioning device within an air channel.
- There is a plurality of electronic components or units in the motor vehicle that generate heat and therefore must be cooled. Here, surrounding air is usually used as the coolant. In DE 89 14 525 U1 by the applicant, an electronic component is cooled by the air flow drawn in by a fan, wherein the cover of the fan is formed as a cooling body. Another possibility for cooling electronic components is known by the applicant through DE 37 03 873 A1, wherein a cooling body is made from a base body with a fin package connected with a material fit, upon which cooling air impinges. The cooling body is connected to the electronic unit with its base body in a heat-conductive way.
- Another cooling device, for cooling electronic components through convection, is proposed by the applicant in DE 198 06 978 A1, wherein the cooling body has corrugated fins that are impinged upon by a cooling air flow.
- For increasing the cooling effect, a cooling device is proposed in DE 41 31 739 A1 having a hollow space that carries a flow of cooling fluid for heat transfer. The hollow space has turbulence inserts for increasing the heat transfer and is connected to the electronic unit via a base plate in a heat conductive way.
- A similar cooling device for electronic components is proposed by the applicant in DE 199 11 205 A1, wherein a hollow space carries a flow of a liquid coolant that is removed from and fed back to a coolant radiator of a motor vehicle cooling circuit.
- Finally, in DE 199 11 204 A1 by the applicant, a cooling device for electronic components is proposed wherein the components are connected directly to a coolant radiator of a motor vehicle in a heat-conductive connection, for example, arranged on the side parts or the coolant box of the radiator. The heat to be discharged thus flows directly into the coolant of the radiator via heat conduction.
- A disadvantage in the known proposals mentioned above is that the heat that can be discharged is limited by the existing temperature of the coolant, whether it is an air flow or a liquid flow. In particular, at high outside temperatures, both the cooling air flow and also a coolant flow removed from the coolant radiator have a relatively high temperature. Thus, the cooling power is also limited.
- The task of the present invention is to create a device for cooling loads generating heat, especially in a motor vehicle and preferably for electronic components, which allows a higher cooling power.
- This task is solved as described and claimed herein. According to the invention, an evaporator, especially in a motor vehicle air-conditioning system, is used for cooling purposes, and at least one cooling element is implemented in the evaporator that can carry a coolant flow. The cooling element is located in heat-conductive contact with the evaporator, especially with its flow channels guiding the refrigerant, so that the heat absorbed by the coolant can be released to the refrigerant, which has a relatively low temperature in the evaporator. The cooling element is connected to a cooling circuit, a so-called secondary circuit, guiding the coolant that absorbs heat from loads to be cooled and transports it to the evaporator, which acts as a heat sink. The evaporator itself is not changed in its operation, thus there is also no intervention in the refrigerant circuit of the air-conditioning system. In principle, any type of evaporator is possible as a heat sink for the cooling according to the invention, but preferably flat tube, plate, or tray evaporators are used that offer smooth surfaces for connection to the cooling element according to the invention. Soldering the cooling element to parts of the evaporator, whereby an especially good heat transfer is achieved, is advantageous. Also, the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator is arbitrary, i.e., either a conventional refrigerant, such as R134a, or an alternative refrigerant, such as R744 (carbon dioxide) can be used. CO2 evaporators also offer good possibilities for integrating at least one cooling element according to the invention.
- In one advantageous construction of the invention, the cooling element or elements integrated into the evaporator can carry a flow of coolant, preferably a water-Glysantin mixture, and are connected to a separate cooling circuit, a secondary circuit. Individual loads generating heat, e.g., electronic components, are assigned to this secondary circuit, with the coolant of the secondary circuit being led past these components. Here, cooling bodies known from the state of the art mentioned above can be used. The cooling element according to the invention is preferably constructed as a rectangular tube, i.e., box-shaped, wherein it preferably takes up the space between two adjacent flat tubes, plates, or trays. This space is taken up by a corrugated fin in standard evaporators. The cooling element thus takes the place of the corrugated fin and fills its space, wherein—as mentioned—the heat conduction can be increased considerably through soldering. Alternatively, the cooling element can also be arranged between two corrugated fins or between a flat tube (tray or plate) and one corrugated fin, and soldered to these parts.
- In another advantageous construction of the invention, the cooling element can carry one or more flows, i.e., it can carry a flow of coolant in two or more directions with reversal, whereby the cooling power can be influenced in this way. For increasing the heat transfer, turbulence inserts can be provided that can also be soldered to the walls of the cooling element. The cooling element is connected on the coolant side to the secondary circuit via an inlet and outlet port, wherein the coolant can be circulated by a pump.
- In another construction, the evaporator has at least one cooling element that is connected to at least one outer flat tube with a material fit, especially through soldering, welding, adhesion, etc., and/or especially with a positive fit through clips, screws, etc. In this way, a side part, especially two side parts, of the evaporator are advantageously eliminated and costs are reduced. Advantageously, the width of the cooling element can be selected arbitrarily according to the required cooling power and is not dependent on the modular dimensions of tubes, especially flat tubes, and/or fins, especially corrugated fins.
- In another construction, the evaporator has at least one first cooling element and at least one second cooling element which can carry a flow, especially advantageously in series.
- In another construction, the evaporator has at least one first cooling element and at least one second cooling element which can carry a flow in parallel.
- In another advantageous construction, at least one cooling element replaces at least one side part of the evaporator and delimits, in particular, the tube block. Therefore, in an especially advantageous way, at least one part, especially two parts, are eliminated, and thus the costs are advantageously reduced. The cooling element is flush with at least one of the collecting tanks in another advantageous construction and is connected, in particular, to at least one of the collecting tanks with a material fit, especially through soldering, welding, adhesion, etc. In another advantageous construction, the cooling element does not terminate flush with at least one collecting tank and is not connected to at least one collecting tank.
- In another advantageous construction, at least one cooling element of the evaporator has a width that is independent of at least one modular dimension of at least one tube, especially a flat tube, and/or at least one fin, especially a corrugated fin.
- In another advantageous construction, at least one cooling element of the evaporator has a width that is dependent on at least one modular dimension of at least one tube, especially a flat tube, and/or at least one fin, especially a corrugated fin.
- According to an advantageous improvement of the invention, a cooling device with a secondary circuit is provided that can be alternatively connected to the engine cooling circuit of a motor vehicle or to a heating body arranged in the engine cooling circuit. In this way, the advantage is achieved that the secondary cooling circuit is redundant in case of a failed air-conditioning system. The coolant of the secondary circuit is then cooled in the heating body, through which there is a flow of air. The cooling of the electronics can thus be maintained. In an advantageous construction, the heating body is connected or disconnected by means of thermostatic valves or electrically controllable multi-port valves. In another advantageous construction, a controllable short circuit is provided between the feed and return line of the secondary circuit, whereby condensation can be prevented.
- In another advantageous construction of the invention, an additional heat exchanger, which is connected to a secondary circuit for cooling loads, especially electronic components, is connected downstream on the air side of the evaporator of a motor vehicle air conditioning system. The additional heat exchanger, preferably a serpentine heat exchanger, is cooled by the cold air leaving the evaporator and thus acts as a heat sink for the secondary cooling circuit. Advantageously, the additional heat exchanger, which has a relatively small depth in the direction of air flow, can be installed between the evaporator and heating body of a conventional air-conditioning system, without requiring additional installation space.
- Embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawing and are defined in more detail below.
- An evaporator (1), in particular for an air-conditioning system of a motor vehicle, comprising flow channels for a coolant and ribs which can be impinged upon by air and which are arranged on the outside of the flow channels. According to the invention, at least one cooling element (5) which can be cross-flown by a coolant (5) is connected in a thermally conductive manner to the evaporator (1) and is connected to a secondary circuit (6) which acts as a cooler for the consumers, in particular electronic components (8).
- One object of the present disclosure is to describe an improved evaporator for the air-conditioning system of a motor vehicle.
-
FIG. 1 is a refrigerant circuit with an evaporator according to the invention with a secondary circuit. -
FIGS. 2 , 2 a illustrate a flat tube evaporator according to the invention with integrated cooling element. -
FIGS. 3 , 3 a illustrate a flat tube evaporator with two integrated cooling elements. -
FIGS. 4 , 4 a illustrate an evaporator for an alternative refrigerant (CO2) with integrated cooling element. -
FIGS. 5 , 5 a, 5 b, 5 c illustrate a cooling element that can carry double flow. -
FIGS. 6 , 6 a illustrate a cooling element that can carry single flow. -
FIG. 7 a illustrates a cooling element that can carry double flow. -
FIGS. 7 b, c, d illustrate a cooling element that can carry single flow. -
FIGS. 8 a, 8 b, 8 c, 8 d, 8 e illustrate various arrangements of cooling elements in the evaporator. -
FIG. 9 a illustrates a front view of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block. -
FIG. 9 b illustrates an isometric representation of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block. -
FIG. 9 c illustrates a cooling element that can carry double flow. -
FIG. 10 a illustrates a front view of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block. -
FIG. 10 b illustrates an isometric representation of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block. -
FIG. 10 c illustrates an isometric representation of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block. -
FIG. 10 d illustrates a cooling element that can carry single flow. -
FIG. 11 a illustrates a rear view of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block. -
FIG. 11 b illustrates an isometric representation of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block. -
FIG. 11 c illustrates a cooling element that can carry single flow. - For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device and its use, and such further applications of the principles of the disclosure as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates.
-
FIG. 1 shows a double-rowflat tube evaporator 1, which is connected on the refrigerant side to arefrigerant circuit 2 of a not-shown motor vehicle air-conditioning system. In addition to theevaporator 1, there is acondenser 3 and a compressor in the refrigerant circuit. Theevaporator 1 corresponds in its construction essentially to the state of the art mentioned above (DE 198 26 881 A1 by the applicant) and carries a flow of conventional refrigerant (R134a). Theevaporator 1 thus has a block 1 a consisting of non-designated flat tubes and corrugated fins, as well as top andbottom collecting tanks 1 b, 1 c. In the center region of the block 1 a, acooling element 5 is implemented in theevaporator 1 that is connected to asecondary circuit 6. In thesecondary circuit 6, acooling body 7, which is connected in a heat conductive way to anelectronic component 8 to be cooled, is arranged as an example of a load. Thecooling element 5,secondary circuit 6, and coolingbody 7 carry a flow of coolant, preferably a liquid coolant, a water-Glysantin mixture, wherein the coolant can be circulated by a not-shown pump. In thesecondary circuit 6, which thus acts as a cooling circuit, other not-shown loads can be arranged that are also cooled by the coolant flow. Thecooling element 5 outputs the heat absorbed by the coolant to the evaporator or the refrigerant, i.e., theevaporator 1 acts as a heat sink for thecooling circuit 6. The primary function of the evaporator, to cool air for the interior of the vehicle, is not negatively affected by the connection of thesecondary circuit 6. There is also no intervention into therefrigerant circuit 2. -
FIGS. 2 and 2 a show aflat tube evaporator 10 in a view from the front as well as in a 3D representation. Theevaporator 10 hasflat tubes 10 a, between which there arecorrugated fins 10 b that are impinged upon by the surrounding air. In the middle region of theevaporator 10 between twoflat tubes 10 a there is a cooling element 11 that is heat conductively connected, preferably through soldering, to theflat tubes 10 a. The cooling element 11 has aninlet port 11 a and anoutlet port 11 b for connecting to the secondary or coolant circuit (cf.secondary circuit 6 inFIG. 1 ), not shown here, in its bottom region (in the drawing). Theflat tube evaporator 10 has arefrigerant connection flange 10 c which is connected on one side to a not-shown refrigerant circuit of the motor vehicle air-conditioning system, and on the other side to theevaporator 10 or its collecting tanks viaconnection tubes 10 d, 10 e. The evaporator 10 carries a flow of air in the direction of the arrow L, which is cooled in the evaporator and is fed to a not-shown passenger compartment of the motor vehicle. -
FIGS. 3 and 3 a show another embodiment of the invention in the form of aflat tube evaporator 20, in a view from the front and in an oblique representation. The construction of theflat tube evaporator 20 corresponds essentially to the construction of the evaporator according toFIGS. 2 and 2 a with the difference that here two coolingelements cooling elements FIGS. 2 , 2 a, i.e., they also haveconnection ports elements -
FIGS. 4 and 4 a show another embodiment of the invention in the form of anevaporator 30, in a view from the front and in a 3D representation. Theevaporator 30 corresponds essentially also to the state of the art and is operated with an alternative refrigerant, CO2 or R744, which means a pressure-tight construction for the individual evaporator components. Theevaporator 30 has U-shaped or serpentine-shaped flat tubes 31 (preferably multiple-chamber tubes), between which are arranged corrugated fins, not shown here. Theevaporator 30 is connected viaconnection tubes connection tubes collection tube 32′, 33′. The distribution of the refrigerant is performed in acollecting tank 34, which is shown inFIG. 4 a in an exploded view. This evaporator type is also known from the state of the art, for example,DE 102 60 030 A1 by the applicant. Other constructions for evaporators operated with CO2 are known throughDE 100 25 362 A1. Acooling element 35 is integrated in theevaporator 30, approximately in the middle region, and arranged between two adjacentflat tubes 31, i.e., preferably soldered together with the adjacent flat tubes. Thecooling element 35 hasconnection ports -
FIGS. 5 , 5 a, 5 b, 5 c show as an individual part acooling element 60 that corresponds to thecooling elements cooling element 60 is also composed of aluminum materials and can thus be soldered to the evaporator. Thecooling element 60 is formed as a rectangular tube 61 in which aholder frame 62 is inserted that closes the tube 61 on the end. The twoconnection ports 60 a, 60 b are arranged on the narrow side of therectangular tube 60.FIG. 5 a shows the interior of therectangular tube 60, wherein anangled separating wall 63 is arranged between thecoolant inlet 60 a and the coolant outlet 60 b. Thus there is an approximately U-shaped flow channel between the twoconnection ports 60 a, 60 b, i.e., thecooling element 60 carries a double flow. Flow arrows E for the inflow of the coolant and U for the reversal of the coolant are shown inFIG. 5 c. The U-shaped flow channel is filled with aturbulence plate 64, which is shown in cross section inFIG. 5 c. It can be soldered to therectangular tube 60. There arefree spaces outlet ports 60 a, 60 b for the distribution or collection of the coolant. The coolant is preferably a fluid heat carrier, especially a water-Glysantin mixture. -
FIGS. 6 and 6 a show another embodiment of acooling element 70 that can carry a single flow. Thecooling element 70 is also constructed as arectangular tube 71 and has aninlet port 70 a on the narrow side in its bottom region and anoutlet port 70 b on the same side in its upper region for connection to the secondary circuit, not shown here. InFIG. 6 a, the interior, i.e., the flow path of the coolant through thecooling element 70, is shown by means of an inlet-side flow arrow E and an outlet-side flow arrow A. Between the inlet andoutlet ports turbulence plate 72 that leavesspaces cooling element 70. Through theturbulence plate 72, the heat transfer from the coolant to the rectangular tube and thus also to the refrigerant is improved. Compared with the embodiment according toFIGS. 5 to 5 c with a double flow, a smaller coolant-side pressure drop, but also a smaller cooling output is produced for the single flow. Instead of theturbulence plate 72, other means increasing the heat transfer are also possible, e.g., simple internal ribbing. -
FIGS. 7 a, 7 b, 7 c, 7 d show additional embodiments for a cooling element. Identical features are designated with the same reference symbols as in the preceding figures. -
FIG. 7 a corresponds toFIG. 5 b. -
FIG. 7 b shows another embodiment for a cooling element 90 that can carry a single flow. The cooling element 90 is also constructed as a rectangular tube and has an inlet port 90 a on the narrow side in its bottom region and an outlet port 90 b in its upper region for connecting to the secondary circuit, not shown here. The interior, i.e., the flow path of the coolant through the cooling element 90, is shown by inlet-side flow arrows E and outlet-side flow arrows A. Between the inlet and outlet ports 90 a, 90 b there is aturbulence plate 92 that leaves spaces free for the distribution and collection of the coolant within the cooling element 90. Through theturbulence plate 92, the heat transfer from the coolant to the rectangular tube and thus also to the refrigerant is improved. In comparison withFIG. 5 b, the inlet and outlet ports 90 a, 90 b are arranged on the opposite side. -
FIG. 7 c corresponds toFIG. 6 a. -
FIG. 7 d shows another embodiment for acooling element 100 that can carry a single flow. Thecooling element 100 is also constructed as a rectangular tube and has aninlet port 100 a on the narrow side in its lower region and, in contrast to FIG. 6 andFIG. 7 c, has an outlet port 100 b in its upper region on the opposite side of thecooling element 100 for connection to the secondary circuit, not shown here. -
FIGS. 8 a, 8 b, 8 c, 8 d, 8 e show various possibilities for the arrangement or integration of cooling elements in an evaporator. Identical features are designated with the same reference symbols as in the preceding figures. - In
FIG. 8 a, acooling element 80 is arranged between adjacentflat tubes 81 of a double-flow flat tube evaporator. The walls of thecooling element 80 contact theflat tubes 81 directly and are preferably soldered to these tubes, which produces an excellent heat transfer. The heat released by the coolant in thecooling element 80 flows directly into theflat tubes 81 in which the refrigerant is flowing.Corrugated fins 82, which are also soldered to theflat tubes 81, are arranged on the sides of theflat tubes 81 facing away from thecooling element 80. -
FIG. 8 b shows another embodiment, twocooling elements 80 that are each arranged between adjacentflat tubes 81. The twocooling elements 80 release their heat on one side to the middle, and on the other side to the two outer,flat tubes 81. -
FIG. 8 c shows another asymmetric arrangement, wherein thecooling element 80 contacts on one side, i.e., with one broad side, theflat tubes 81 and on the other side, i.e., with the other broad side,corrugated fins 82. All of the parts are soldered to each other, so that the heat is released from thecooling element 80 on one side into theflat tubes 81 and on the other side via thecorrugated fins 82 to the air flowing above, shown by arrows L. -
FIG. 8 d shows another embodiment, wherein thecooling element 80 is arranged directly between adjacentcorrugated fins 82 that are in heat-conductive contact withflat tubes 81 on the other side. The heat generated by thecooling element 80 flows via heat conduction directly into thecorrugated fins 82 and is released on both sides to the surrounding air flowing over thecorrugated fins 82. -
FIG. 8 e shows another embodiment. The flat tube evaporator has at least oneflat tube 81, especially severalflat tubes 81, as well as at least one outerflat tube 83, especially two outer flat tubes. The outerflat tube 83 has a firstinner side 84, which is arranged adjacent to acorrugated fin 82, or in another, not-shown embodiment adjacent to aflat tube 81. Next to the firstinner side 84, the outerflat tube 83 has an essentially parallel secondouter side 85. The secondouter side 85 of the outerflat tube 83 is connected with a material fit to thecooling element 80, especially through soldering, welding, adhesion, etc., whereby an excellent heat transfer is produced. The heat released from the coolant in thecooling element 80 flows directly into the outerflat tube 83 in which the refrigerant flows. Especially advantageous is to replace at least one side part, which delimits, in particular, the tube block to the outside, by thecooling element 80. In particular, two side parts, which each delimit the tube block to the outside, are replaced by two cooling elements. In this way, at least one side part is eliminated and the costs are reduced. - In another embodiment that is not shown, the second
outer side 85 of the outerflat tube 83 is connected to thecooling element 80 with a positive fit, especially with a clip connection, screw connection, etc., or with a positive and material fit. In the shown construction, acooling element 80 is connected to at least one secondouter side 85 of an outerflat tube 83. - In another embodiment, the flat tube evaporator has two outer
flat tubes 83, one on each outer side. Each coolingelement 80 is connected to an outerflat tube 83, especially with a material fit through soldering, welding, adhesion, etc., so that the flat tube evaporator has a total of twocooling elements 80. - In another not-shown embodiment, the flat tube evaporator has more than two cooling elements. One
cooling element 80 is connected to an outer flat tube, at least oneother cooling element 80, especially severalother cooling elements 80, [these] are arranged between twoflat tubes 81 in a first variant or between twocorrugated fins 82 in a second variant or between a flat tube and a corrugated fin in a third variant, and connected to these parts or arranged as a combination of the three variants. -
FIG. 9 a shows the front view of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the evaporator block on the outside.FIG. 9 b shows the associated isometric representation of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the evaporator block on the outside.FIG. 9 c shows the associated cooling element. Identical features are provided with the same reference symbols as in the preceding figures. -
FIGS. 9 a, 9 b show aflat tube evaporator 270, which is connected on the refrigerant side to arefrigerant circuit 300 of a not-shown motor vehicle air-conditioning system. In the refrigerant circuit, acondenser 280 and acompressor 290 are arranged next to theevaporator 270. Theevaporator 270 corresponds in its construction essentially to the state of the art (DE 198 26 881 A1 by the applicant) mentioned above and carries a flow of a conventional refrigerant (R134a). In addition, in another construction it is operated with an alternative refrigerant CO2 or R744. Theevaporator 270 thus hasflat tubes 230 and outerflat tubes 220 on undesignated corrugated fins, as well as upper andlower collecting tanks block 370 has theflat tube 230, two outerflat tubes 220, and also undesignated corrugated fins. Theblock 370 is delimited on two opposing sides by acooling element 210. At least onecooling element 210, in particular each coolingelement 210, is connected to asecondary circuit 380. Thesecondary circuit 380 has at least onefeed line 350 and at least onereturn line 360. The secondary circuit has at least one load with at least onecooling body 330, which is heat-conductively connected to at least oneelectronic component 340 to be cooled. Thereturn line 360 is arranged upstream of thecooling body 330 and is connected to at least oneoutlet connection 260 of thecooling element 210. The feed line is arranged downstream of thecooling body 330 and is connected to at least oneinlet connection 250 of thecooling element 210. Thecooling element 210,secondary circuit 380, and coolingbody 330 carry a coolant, preferably a fluid coolant, especially a water-Glysantin mixture, wherein the coolant can be circulated by a not-shown pump. Other not-shown loads can be arranged, which are likewise cooled by the coolant flow, in thesecondary circuit 380, which thus acts as a cooling circuit. The one ormore cooling elements 210 transfer the heat absorbed by the coolant to the one or more outerflat tubes 220 and thus to theevaporator 270 and the refrigerant, i.e., theevaporator 270 acts as a heat sink for thecooling circuit 380. The one ormore cooling elements 210 are arranged adjacent and especially parallel to the outerflat tube 220 of theevaporator 270, and in particular are connected to the outer side of the flat tube in a conductive, especially a heat-conductive way and with a material fit, especially through soldering, welding, adhesion, etc., and/or with a positive fit, especially through clips, screws, etc. According to the required cooling power, only onecooling element 210 can be connected to an outerflat tube 220. For a greater required cooling power, a cooling element is connected to each of the two outerflat tubes 220, so that at least two coolingelements 210 are connected to theevaporator 270. In comparison to the construction inFIGS. 1 , 3, 4, thewidth 390 of the cooling element can be designed as larger or smaller according to the required cooling power. InFIGS. 1 , 3, 4 thewidth 390 of the cooling element must be adapted to the modular dimensions of the flat tubes or the corrugated fins. In this embodiment, thewidth 390 of thecooling element 210 can be steplessly variable. With this embodiment, the number of cooling elements, and thewidth 390 according to the cooling power required in thesecondary circuit 380, can be assembled as in a modular system. The one ormore inlet connections 250 and one ormore outlet connections 260 are arranged essentially parallel to each other, in the embodiment essentially adjacent to thelower collection tube 320. Thecooling element 210 comprises a firstouter face 390, a secondouter face 400, and also a thirdouter face 410. In addition, the cooling element has a fourth outer face, which has essentially the size of the firstouter face 390 and which is arranged essentially parallel to this face, a fifth outer face, which has essentially the size of the secondouter face 400 and which is arranged essentially parallel to this face, and also another sixth outer face, which has essentially the size of the thirdouter face 410 and which is arranged essentially parallel to this face. In another embodiment, the one ormore inlet connections 250 and the one or more outlet connections are arranged on at least the firstouter face 390, and/or the secondouter face 400 and/or the thirdouter face 410 and/or the fourth outer face and/or the sixth outer face, wherein theinlet connections 250 and theoutlet connections 260 can be arranged on the same outer face of thesame cooling element 210 or theinlet connections 250 can be arranged on a different outer face of thesame cooling element 210 than the face on which theoutlet connections 260 are arranged.FIG. 9 c corresponds toFIG. 7 a and shows a section through thecooling element 210. Identical elements are here designated with the same reference symbols as in the preceding figures. Thecooling element 210, however, can also be formed as shown inFIG. 7 b, 7 c, or 7 d. -
FIG. 10 a shows the front view of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.FIG. 10 b shows the isometric representation of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.FIG. 10 c shows the isometric representation of another embodiment of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.FIG. 10 d shows a cooling element that can carry a single flow. Identical features are provided with the same reference symbols as in the preceding figures. - In contrast to
FIG. 9 a,FIGS. 10 a and 10 b show acooling element 510. Theinlet connection 550 is arranged in the lower region of thecooling element 510, essentially adjacent to thelower collecting tank 320, and theoutlet connection 560 is arranged in the upper region of thecooling element 510, essentially adjacent to theupper collecting tank 310. Asecond cooling element 520 has aninlet connection 550 in the upper region of thecooling element 520, essentially adjacent to theupper collecting tank 310, and anoutlet connection 560 in the lower region of thecooling element 520, essentially adjacent to thelower collecting tank 320. Thesecondary cooling circuit 680 has afeed line 650 and a return line 660. The coolant flows through thefirst cooling element 510 and thesecond cooling element 520 in series. Here, the coolant of thesecondary circuit 680 enters into thecooling element 510 on thefeed side 650 via theinlet connection 550, flows through this cooling element, and leaves thiscooling element 510 via theoutlet connection 560. The coolant then flows via a not-shown line to theinlet connection 550 of thesecond cooling element 520, flows through this cooling element, and emerges from thesecond cooling element 520 via the outlet connection. However, the reverse direction of flow is also possible. -
FIG. 10 c shows another embodiment. Two coolingelements 710 of anevaporator 770 each comprise aninlet connection 750, which is arranged in the lower region of thecooling element 710 essentially adjacent to thelower collecting tank 320, and anoutlet connection 760, which is arranged in the upper region of thecooling element 710 essentially adjacent to theupper collecting tank 310. Thesecondary cooling circuit 880 has afeed line 850 and areturn line 860. The coolant flows through thefirst cooling element 710 and thesecond cooling element 710 in parallel. Here, the coolant of thesecondary circuit 880 branches at a not-shown position on thefeed side 850 and enters therespective cooling element 710 via theinlet connection 750, flows through this cooling element, and leaves the respective cooling element 510 [sic; 710] via theoutlet connection 760. The two discharged coolant flows combine at a not-shown position in thereturn line 860. However, the reverse direction of flow is also possible. -
FIG. 10 d corresponds toFIG. 7 c and shows a section through thecooling elements cooling elements FIG. 7 a, 7 b, or 7 d. -
FIG. 11 a shows the rear view of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.FIG. 11 b shows an isometric representation of a flat tube evaporator with cooling elements arranged on the outside on the evaporator block.FIG. 11 c shows a cooling element that can carry a single flow. Identical features are provided with the same reference symbols as in the preceding figures. - In contrast to the preceding figures, the cooling element 910 has an
inlet connection 950 and anoutlet connection 960 on the rear side instead of on the front side.FIG. 11 c corresponds toFIG. 10 d and shows the cooling element 910. - Other configurations are conceivable, for example, an arrangement of the cooling elements on the collecting tanks.
- A cooling device is contemplated as another embodiment of the invention consisting of an evaporator that is arranged in a refrigerant circuit of a not-shown motor vehicle, a secondary circuit, and also a radiator that is arranged in the cooling circuit of a not-shown internal combustion engine of the motor vehicle. Evaporator, refrigerant circuit, and secondary circuit correspond to the embodiment according to
FIG. 1 and the subsequent figures. The secondary circuit is used—as described above—for cooling loads generating heat, especially not-shown electronic components, wherein the evaporator is used with at least one cooling element, not shown here, as a heat sink. The secondary circuit has a feed line and a return line and is connected via connection lines to the radiator such that this is connected parallel to the not-shown cooling element arranged on the evaporator. The cooling circuit of the internal combustion engine (engine cooling circuit) and the secondary circuit both have the same coolant. The radiator is connected alternatively, i.e., instead of the cooling element, in the event that the air-conditioning system in the motor vehicle fails, and thus the evaporator is not functional. Activation is realized via not-shown thermostatically or electrically controllable valves in the feed line or return line. The radiator, which is also part of the not-shown air-conditioning system, is impinged upon by air on the secondary side, so that cooling of the coolant and thus of the secondary circuit can be realized. The radiator is thus used as an alternative to the evaporator as a heat sink for the secondary circuit. Advantageously, there can be a short-circuit line between the feed line and return line that can be controlled via a not-shown thermostatic valve and that adjusts the temperature of the return line for the purpose of preventing condensation at a certain temperature. - Also contemplated as another embodiment of the invention, a cooling device has an evaporator and an additional heat exchanger arranged behind the evaporator in the direction of air flow. The evaporator is part of a not-shown motor vehicle air-conditioning system and is connected to a refrigerant circuit. The construction of the evaporator corresponds to the state of the art—here a flat tube evaporator whose flat tubes, not shown, carry a flow of refrigerant of the refrigerant circuit, while a flow of air passes through the similarly not-shown fins between the flat tubes. The air is thus cooled in the evaporator and encounters the additional heat exchanger, which is preferably formed as a serpentine heat exchanger with a flat tube having multiple reversals, after emerging from the evaporator. The serpentine heat exchanger has two connections by means of which it is connected to a secondary circuit that corresponds to the secondary circuits described above and which is used for cooling loads generating heat, especially electronic components in the motor vehicle. The additional heat exchanger is cooled by the air cooled in the evaporator and is thus used as a heat sink for the secondary circuit, wherein the evaporator acts indirectly as a heat sink—via the air. Advantageously, the additional heat exchanger, which has a relatively small depth in the direction of the air flow, is arranged between the evaporator and a heating body that is connected to the cooling circuit of the internal combustion engine. The end face of the additional heat exchanger can correspond approximately to the end face of the evaporator. The volume flow of the coolant in the additional heat exchanger is relatively small—in this respect connecting the individual tubes in succession, e.g., in the form of the serpentine heat exchanger, is advantageous. Thus, a relatively strong cooling effect is also provided. The additional heat exchanger can be connected mechanically or with a material fit (e.g., through soldering) to the evaporator or to the heating body and thus can be integrated into a standard air-conditioning system.
- In particular for the case in which a greater throughput of coolant through the additional heat exchanger is provided, it can also prove useful for several tubes to be arranged into groups in which the coolant flows in a uniform direction. The tubes are then connected by a suitable distribution or collection device to the corresponding coolant connection lines, for example, by known collection tubes. In practice, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 blocks has proven effective. Such a construction especially enables reduction of the flow resistance of the cooling water.
- Obviously, it is also possible—especially in the case of high coolant throughputs—for the coolant to flow in the same direction in all of the tubes of the additional heat exchanger.
- While the preferred embodiment of the invention has been illustrated and described in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected.
Claims (26)
1. An evaporator, especially for an air-conditioning system of a motor vehicle with flow channels for a refrigerant and with fins, arranged outside of the flow channels and that can be impinged upon by air, characterized in that at least one cooling element (5, 11, 21, 210, 510, 520, 710) that can carry a coolant flow is connected in a heat conductive way to the evaporator (1, 10, 20, 270, 570, 770).
2. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the evaporator is constructed as a flat tube evaporator (10, 20, 30, 270, 570, 770) with flat tubes (10 a, 31, 81, 220, 230) and corrugated fins (10 b, 82).
3. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the evaporator is constructed as a plate or tray evaporator.
4. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the refrigerant is R134a or R152.
5. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the refrigerant is R744 (carbon dioxide).
6. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the one or more cooling elements (5, 11, 21, 22, 35, 80) are arranged between two adjacent flat tubes (10 a, 81) or trays or plates.
7. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the one or more cooling elements (5, 11, 21, 22, 35, 80, 210, 510, 520, 710, 910) are connected to at least one flow channel (10 a, 31, 81, 220) with a material fit, especially through soldering, welding, adhesion, etc., or especially with a positive fit through clips, screws, etc.
8. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the cooling element (5, 11, 21, 22, 35, 60, 70, 80) is connected on the coolant side to a separate cooling circuit (secondary circuit 6).
9. The evaporator according to claim 8 , characterized in that the secondary circuit (6) is used for cooling loads generating heat, especially electronic components.
10. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the coolant in the secondary circuit (6) is a mixture of water and Glysantin.
11. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the one or more cooling elements (5, 11, 21, 22, 35, 60, 70, 80, 210, 510, 520, 710, 910) are constructed as rectangular tubes (61, 71) and are arranged between adjacent flow channels (81).
12. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the one or more cooling elements (80) contact the flow channels (81) with both broad sides.
13. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the one or more cooling elements (80) are arranged between a flow channel (81) and a corrugated fin (82).
14. Evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the one or more cooling elements (80) are arranged between two adjacent corrugated fins (82).
15. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the one or more cooling elements (70) can carry a single flow of coolant.
16. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the cooling element (69) can carry a double flow (with reversal U).
17. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the one or more cooling elements (60, 70) have an inlet and an outlet port (60 a, 60 b, 70 a, 70 b) for the coolant.
18. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that turbulence inserts (64, 72) are arranged in the interior of the cooling element (60, 70).
19. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the one or more cooling elements (210, 410, 520, 710, 910) are connected to at least one outer flat tube (220) with a material fit, especially through soldering, welding, adhesion, etc., and/or especially with a positive fit through clips, screws, etc.
20. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that at least one first cooling element (510) and at least one second cooling element (520) can carry a flow in series.
21. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that at least one first cooling element (710) and at least one second cooling element (710) can carry a flow in parallel.
22. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that at least one cooling element (210, 510, 520, 710, 910) replaces at least one side part of the evaporator (270, 570, 770) and in particular delimits the tube block (370).
23. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that a width (390) of the one or more cooling elements (210, 510, 520, 710, 910) is independent of at least one modular dimension of at least one tube, especially a flat tube, and/or at least one fin, especially a corrugated fin.
24. The evaporator according to claim 1 , characterized in that a width (390) of the one or more cooling elements (210, 510, 520, 710, 910) is dependent on at least one modular dimension of at least one tube, especially a flat tube, and/or at least one fin, especially a corrugated fin.
25. A cooling device for cooling loads generating heat, especially in a motor vehicle, characterized by the heat-conductive connection of at least one cooling element that can carry a coolant flow to an evaporator, especially of a motor vehicle air-conditioning system, and the connection of a secondary circuit that can carry a flow of coolant to the one or more cooling elements according to one of the preceding claims.
26. Use of an evaporator, especially of a motor vehicle air-conditioning system, as a heat sink for cooling of loads generating heat.
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
DEDE102005002060.7 | 2005-01-14 | ||
DE102005002060 | 2005-01-14 | ||
DE102005049406 | 2005-10-13 | ||
DEDE102005409406.4 | 2005-10-13 | ||
PCT/EP2006/000318 WO2006074958A2 (en) | 2005-01-14 | 2006-01-16 | Evaporator, in particular for an air-conditioning system of a motor vehicle |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20080184732A1 true US20080184732A1 (en) | 2008-08-07 |
Family
ID=36128369
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/795,217 Abandoned US20080184732A1 (en) | 2005-01-14 | 2006-01-16 | Evaporator, in Particular for an Air-Conditioning System of a Motor Vehicle |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20080184732A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1842019B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2008527306A (en) |
DE (1) | DE102006002194A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2006074958A2 (en) |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20090249810A1 (en) * | 2008-04-02 | 2009-10-08 | Dirk Neumeister | Evaporator |
US20130298588A1 (en) * | 2011-02-04 | 2013-11-14 | Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha | Cooling device |
US20140208793A1 (en) * | 2013-01-30 | 2014-07-31 | Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. | Integrated hot and cold storage systems linked to heat pump |
US20140374408A1 (en) * | 2013-06-19 | 2014-12-25 | Behr Gmbh & Co. Kg | Heat exchanger device and heater |
DE102019107100A1 (en) * | 2019-03-20 | 2020-09-24 | Dr. Ing. H.C. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft | Cooling device for cooling a hot heat transfer fluid in a vehicle |
Families Citing this family (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE102006004414A1 (en) * | 2006-01-31 | 2007-08-02 | Valeo Klimasysteme Gmbh | cooling unit |
DE102007032852A1 (en) * | 2007-02-22 | 2008-08-28 | Johnson Controls Automotive Electronics Gmbh | Cooling system for vehicle components |
DE102008017113A1 (en) * | 2008-04-02 | 2009-10-08 | Behr Gmbh & Co. Kg | Evaporator for use in cooling device of heat source of motor vehicle, has plates whose length to width ratio is not greater than specific value, and refrigerant flows through flow passages in bank after reversal of direction of refrigerant |
DE102010061768A1 (en) * | 2010-11-23 | 2012-05-24 | Behr Gmbh & Co. Kg | Device for cooling a heat source of a motor vehicle |
DE102011107281A1 (en) | 2011-07-15 | 2013-01-17 | Volkswagen Ag | Chiller for cooling heat source of motor vehicle, has refrigerant flow channel whose refrigerant volume is set greater by predetermined factor than coolant volume of coolant flow channel |
JP7146077B2 (en) * | 2019-05-22 | 2022-10-03 | 三菱電機株式会社 | heat exchangers and air conditioners |
CN110230901A (en) * | 2019-05-27 | 2019-09-13 | 广州大学 | A kind of the refrigerant distribution pipe and heat pump system of gas-liquid two-phase common type |
Citations (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3315731A (en) * | 1965-05-04 | 1967-04-25 | Modine Mfg Co | Vehicle air conditioner |
US3907032A (en) * | 1971-04-27 | 1975-09-23 | United Aircraft Prod | Tube and fin heat exchanger |
US4761967A (en) * | 1984-10-11 | 1988-08-09 | Diesel Kiki Kabushiki Kaisha | Car air conditioner with heat storage tank for cooling energy |
US4897712A (en) * | 1987-02-07 | 1990-01-30 | Suddeutsche Kuhlerfabrik Julius Fr. Behr Gmbh & Co. Kg | Heat sink, particulary for the cooling of electronic elements |
US6112543A (en) * | 1998-08-27 | 2000-09-05 | Behr Gmbh & Co. | Device for cooling an interior compartment of a motor vehicle |
US6340053B1 (en) * | 1999-02-05 | 2002-01-22 | Long Manufacturing Ltd. | Self-enclosing heat exchanger with crimped turbulizer |
US20020056546A1 (en) * | 2000-02-02 | 2002-05-16 | York International Corporation | Plate heat exchanger assembly with enhanced heat transfer characteristics |
Family Cites Families (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JPS5718514A (en) * | 1980-07-08 | 1982-01-30 | Nippon Radiator Co Ltd | Air conditioner for automobile |
JPS6192910A (en) * | 1984-10-11 | 1986-05-10 | Diesel Kiki Co Ltd | Air conditioner for vehicle |
JPH04203891A (en) * | 1990-11-30 | 1992-07-24 | Nippondenso Co Ltd | Heat exchanger for both cooling and heating |
DE4209188C2 (en) * | 1992-03-20 | 1994-02-03 | Kulmbacher Klimageraete | Arrangement for air conditioning rooms, in particular the passenger compartment of motor vehicles |
FR2728666A1 (en) * | 1994-12-26 | 1996-06-28 | Valeo Thermique Habitacle | HEAT EXCHANGER WITH THREE REDUCED BULK FLUIDS |
DE19646349B4 (en) * | 1996-11-09 | 2011-08-11 | Behr GmbH & Co. KG, 70469 | Evaporator and vehicle air conditioning system equipped therewith |
JPH10325649A (en) * | 1997-05-27 | 1998-12-08 | Showa Alum Corp | Evaporator |
JP2001001753A (en) * | 1999-06-15 | 2001-01-09 | Bosch Automotive Systems Corp | Regenerative air conditioner for idling-stop vehicle |
FR2796337B1 (en) * | 1999-07-12 | 2005-08-19 | Valeo Climatisation | HEATING-AIR CONDITIONING INSTALLATION FOR MOTOR VEHICLE |
JP2003139478A (en) * | 2001-11-01 | 2003-05-14 | Ee R C:Kk | Heat exchanger |
DE10214965C1 (en) * | 2002-04-04 | 2003-11-20 | Webasto Thermosysteme Gmbh | Heating and/or cooling device for omnibus passenger compartment with reheating circuit supplied via pump operated independent of vehicle IC engine |
JP4158612B2 (en) * | 2003-06-19 | 2008-10-01 | 株式会社デンソー | Vehicle exhaust heat recovery system |
DE10338824A1 (en) * | 2003-08-21 | 2005-03-24 | Behr Gmbh & Co. Kg | air conditioning |
-
2006
- 2006-01-16 US US11/795,217 patent/US20080184732A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2006-01-16 DE DE102006002194A patent/DE102006002194A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2006-01-16 JP JP2007550768A patent/JP2008527306A/en active Pending
- 2006-01-16 WO PCT/EP2006/000318 patent/WO2006074958A2/en active Application Filing
- 2006-01-16 EP EP06706241A patent/EP1842019B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Patent Citations (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3315731A (en) * | 1965-05-04 | 1967-04-25 | Modine Mfg Co | Vehicle air conditioner |
US3907032A (en) * | 1971-04-27 | 1975-09-23 | United Aircraft Prod | Tube and fin heat exchanger |
US4761967A (en) * | 1984-10-11 | 1988-08-09 | Diesel Kiki Kabushiki Kaisha | Car air conditioner with heat storage tank for cooling energy |
US4897712A (en) * | 1987-02-07 | 1990-01-30 | Suddeutsche Kuhlerfabrik Julius Fr. Behr Gmbh & Co. Kg | Heat sink, particulary for the cooling of electronic elements |
US6112543A (en) * | 1998-08-27 | 2000-09-05 | Behr Gmbh & Co. | Device for cooling an interior compartment of a motor vehicle |
US6340053B1 (en) * | 1999-02-05 | 2002-01-22 | Long Manufacturing Ltd. | Self-enclosing heat exchanger with crimped turbulizer |
US20020056546A1 (en) * | 2000-02-02 | 2002-05-16 | York International Corporation | Plate heat exchanger assembly with enhanced heat transfer characteristics |
Cited By (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20090249810A1 (en) * | 2008-04-02 | 2009-10-08 | Dirk Neumeister | Evaporator |
US20130298588A1 (en) * | 2011-02-04 | 2013-11-14 | Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha | Cooling device |
US8893522B2 (en) * | 2011-02-04 | 2014-11-25 | Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha | Cooling device |
US20140208793A1 (en) * | 2013-01-30 | 2014-07-31 | Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. | Integrated hot and cold storage systems linked to heat pump |
US20140374408A1 (en) * | 2013-06-19 | 2014-12-25 | Behr Gmbh & Co. Kg | Heat exchanger device and heater |
US9743464B2 (en) * | 2013-06-19 | 2017-08-22 | Mahle International Gmbh | Heat exchanger device and heater |
DE102019107100A1 (en) * | 2019-03-20 | 2020-09-24 | Dr. Ing. H.C. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft | Cooling device for cooling a hot heat transfer fluid in a vehicle |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2006074958A3 (en) | 2007-04-19 |
EP1842019A2 (en) | 2007-10-10 |
WO2006074958A2 (en) | 2006-07-20 |
EP1842019B1 (en) | 2012-08-08 |
JP2008527306A (en) | 2008-07-24 |
DE102006002194A1 (en) | 2006-08-24 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20080184732A1 (en) | Evaporator, in Particular for an Air-Conditioning System of a Motor Vehicle | |
US7111669B2 (en) | Heat exchanger | |
US7823671B2 (en) | Cooling structure of heat generating member | |
US7753105B2 (en) | Liquid cooled condenser having an integrated heat exchanger | |
US8616012B2 (en) | Evaporator for a refrigeration circuit | |
JP5535742B2 (en) | Heat medium heating device and vehicle air conditioner using the same | |
US20170122669A1 (en) | Stacked heat exchanger | |
US10625572B2 (en) | Heating/cooling module | |
CN101644512A (en) | Heat exchanger | |
US8695689B2 (en) | Heat exchanger, in particular heater for motor vehicles | |
US9115934B2 (en) | Heat exchanger flow limiting baffle | |
EP3722720B1 (en) | Heat exchanger arrangement, method for producing a heat exchanger arrangement and use of a heat exchanger arrangement | |
US20140374072A1 (en) | Kit for a heat exchanger, a heat exchanger core, and heat exchanger | |
US6749007B2 (en) | Compact cooling system with similar flow paths for multiple heat exchangers | |
US10919361B2 (en) | Cooling module for vehicle | |
WO2013084469A1 (en) | Heat exchanger | |
US20080110604A1 (en) | Heat exchanger | |
US20190168582A1 (en) | Multi-temperature transportation refrigeration system | |
US9945614B2 (en) | Heat exchanger with high pressure phase refrigerant channel, low pressure phase refrigerant channel and coolant channel | |
CN111448438A (en) | Heat exchanger | |
JP2014526415A (en) | Multi-layer evaporator for automotive air conditioning circuit | |
JPH11153395A (en) | Integral type heat-exchanger for automobile | |
CN113357936B (en) | Heat exchanger and method for operating a heat exchanger | |
US10449833B2 (en) | Heat exchanger and heat pump system | |
KR20110100002A (en) | With pcm(phase change material) dual evaporator |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: BEHR GMBH & CO. KG, GERMANY Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:HADLER, JENS;KOHL, MICHAEL;SCHMADL, DIETER;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:020993/0558;SIGNING DATES FROM 20070604 TO 20070622 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |