JP7562284B2 - Distributor and heat exchanger unit - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a distributor and a heat exchanger unit.

A distributor is known in which a main pipe is provided upstream of the distributor body through which the fluid passes, and multiple outlet pipes are provided downstream, the main pipe has a distributor provided at the inlet where the fluid flows in, an inner pipe that communicates with the distributor, a partition for forming the same number of distribution passages as the outlet pipes within the inner pipe, and an outer pipe that surrounds the inner pipe and forms a liquid reservoir that communicates with each distribution passage within the inner pipe, and each outlet pipe communicates with a corresponding liquid reservoir in the main pipe (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Patent No. 2730299

A distributor may be constructed that can distribute a fluid to multiple branch pipes by connecting multiple branch pipes to a cylindrical outer pipe. In this case, if the inner diameter of the flow contraction section of at least two of the multiple branch pipes and the insertion length into the outer pipe are made the same, it is not possible to increase the possibility of adjusting the distribution of fluid to multiple branch pipes.

The object of the present invention is to increase the possibility of adjusting the fluid distribution to multiple branch pipes, compared to when the inner diameter of the flow contraction section of at least two of the multiple branch pipes and the insertion length into the outer pipe are the same.

To this end, the present invention provides a distributor that includes a cylindrical outer pipe and a number of branch pipes connected to the outer pipe, and at least two of the branch pipes are configured so that at least one of the inner diameter of the contraction section and the insertion length into the outer pipe is different.

The outer tube may be cylindrical or rectangular.

The distributor may have a protrusion on the inner surface of the outer pipe. In this case, the protrusion may be provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe in the insertion direction of the branch pipe. Also, the protrusion may be provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe at the position where the branch pipe is connected.

The distributor may have a branch pipe on the side opposite to the side connected to the outer pipe of the branch pipe.

The outer tube may be twisted around a longitudinal axis. In this case, the distributor may further include a cylindrical other outer tube and a plurality of other branch tubes connected to the other outer tube, the other outer tube being twisted around an axis, and at least two of the plurality of other branch tubes being configured to have different inner diameters and/or insertion lengths into the other outer tube.

The present invention also provides a distributor that includes a cylindrical outer pipe and a number of branch pipes connected to the outer pipe, and at least two of the branch pipes are configured so that the diameters of the holes provided on either side of the portion inserted into the outer pipe are different.

The present invention also provides a heat exchanger unit that includes a distributor that distributes a fluid passing through the inside, and a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the fluid distributed by the distributor and air, the distributor having a cylindrical outer tube and a plurality of branch tubes connected to the outer tube, and at least two of the plurality of branch tubes are configured so that at least one of the inner diameter of the contraction section and the insertion length into the outer tube is different.

The present invention also provides a heat exchanger unit that includes a distributor that distributes a fluid passing through the inside, and a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the fluid distributed by the distributor and air, the distributor having a cylindrical outer tube and a number of branch tubes connected to the outer tube, and at least two of the multiple branch tubes are configured so that the diameters of the holes provided on either side of the portion inserted into the outer tube are different.

According to the present invention, it is possible to increase the possibility of adjusting the fluid distribution to multiple branch pipes, compared to when the inner diameter of the flow contraction section of at least two of the multiple branch pipes and the insertion length into the outer pipe are the same.

1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a distributor according to a first embodiment of the present invention; 2 is a cross-sectional view of the distributor taken along line AA in FIG. 1. 2 is a diagram showing a modified example of the AA cross section of the distributor in FIG. 1. 13 is a diagram showing the relationship between the wind speed at the height of the refrigerant pipe to which the branch pipe is connected in the heat exchanger and the appropriate refrigerant flow rate to be flowed through the branch pipe, for each branch pipe. FIG. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a distributor according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a distributor according to a third embodiment of the present invention taken along the line AA. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a distributor according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention taken along the line AA. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a distributor according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention taken along the line AA. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a modified example of the AA cross-sectional view of the distributor in the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a distributor according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a distributor according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the distributor in FIG. 10 . FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a distributor according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a bottom view of the distributor in FIG. 12 . FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a heat exchanger unit including a distributor and a heat exchanger in a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[First embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a distributor 1 in a first embodiment. The distributor 1 distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid passing through the inside. As shown in the figure, the distributor 1 includes a cylindrical outer pipe 10, an inlet portion 20 for guiding the refrigerant, which is welded to the upstream end of the outer pipe 10, and a cap portion 30 for blocking the flow of the refrigerant, which is welded to the downstream end of the outer pipe 10. An orifice plate is provided in the inlet portion 20, but is not shown because it cannot be seen from the outside. The distributor 1 also includes a plurality of tee pipes 40 provided in the outer pipe 10, and a plurality of branch pipes 50 that are joined to the outer pipe 10 by being inserted into the plurality of tee pipes 40, and are connected to the refrigerant pipes of a heat exchanger (not shown). Here, the plurality of tee pipes 40 are provided in one outer pipe 10, but this is not limited to this. A plurality of outer tubes 10 may be prepared, and a plurality of tee's 40 may be provided to connect adjacent ones of the plurality of outer tubes 10, the inlet portions 20, and the cap portions 30. In this case, the plurality of outer tubes 10 connected by the plurality of tee's 40 can be regarded as a single "outer tube."

Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the distributor 1 in Figure 1 taken along line A-A. As shown in the figure, a branch pipe 50 is inserted into the outer pipe 10. In the first embodiment, the inner diameter D of the flow contraction section 51 is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 1). In the first embodiment, the insertion length L of the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 1) is different between the multiple branch pipes 50. Note that, although both the inner diameter D of the flow contraction section 51 and the insertion length L of the branch pipe 50 are different between the multiple branch pipes 50, this is not the only option. At least one of the inner diameter D of the flow contraction section 51 and the insertion length L of the branch pipe 50 may be different between at least two of the multiple branch pipes 50.

Figures 3-1(a) and (b) are diagrams showing modified examples of the A-A cross section of the distributor 1 in Figure 1. In Figure 2, a flow contraction section 51 is provided in the branch pipe 50, and its tip is used as the refrigerant inlet, but in Figures 3-1(a) and (b), the branch pipe 50 is not provided with a flow contraction section 51, and the refrigerant inlet is provided on one of the sides of the branch pipe 50. Specifically, in Figure 3-1(a), a front hole 52 is provided on the front side of the branch pipe 50, which serves as the refrigerant inlet. In this case, the diameter of the front hole 52 is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 1). In Figure 3-1(b), side holes 53 and 54 are provided on the side of the branch pipe 50, which serve as the refrigerant inlet. In this case, the diameter of the side holes 53 and 54 is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 1). In this modified example, the insertion length L of the branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 1) is also different. Here, the branch pipes 50 are configured so that both the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53, 54 and the insertion length L of the branch pipes 50 are different, but this is not limited thereto. At least one of the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53, 54 and the insertion length L of the branch pipes 50 may be different between at least two of the branch pipes 50.

In this way, in the first embodiment, the multiple branch pipes 50 have different inner diameters D and insertion lengths L. This makes it possible to adjust the refrigerant distribution and increase the heat exchange capacity.

Next, a specific example will be described in which the inner diameter D of the flow contraction section 51 and the insertion length L of the branch pipe 50 are different among multiple branch pipes 50. Figure 3-2 is a diagram showing the relationship between the air speed at the height of the refrigerant pipe to which the branch pipe 50 is connected in the heat exchanger and the appropriate refrigerant flow rate to be passed through that branch pipe 50, for each branch pipe 50. It can be seen from the diagram that in this heat exchanger, the air speed increases as the height increases, so it is better to increase the refrigerant flow rate. To increase the refrigerant flow rate, the inner diameter D of the flow contraction section 51 should be increased and the insertion length L of the branch pipe 50 should be shortened.

Here, FIG. 3-2 shows, for example, a case where 42 branch pipes 50 are connected to the outer pipe 10 and a refrigerant flows through these 42 branch pipes 50. In this case, for the 42 branch pipes 50, it is preferable to increase the inner diameter D of the contraction section 51 and shorten the insertion length L of the branch pipe 50 for the branch pipe 50 connected to a refrigerant pipe that is higher in the heat exchanger.

In other words, it is preferable to supply a large amount of refrigerant to an area where the wind speed is high because the heat exchange capacity is large, and to supply a small amount of refrigerant to an area where the wind speed is low because the heat exchange capacity is small. For this reason, in this embodiment, the inner diameter D of the flow contraction section 51 and the insertion length L of the branch pipe 50 are made different according to the wind speed distribution, thereby increasing the possibility of adjusting the fluid distribution to the multiple branch pipes 50.

In this example, the refrigerant pipes connected to the branch pipes 50 are arranged in the height direction of the heat exchanger, so the inner diameter D of the contraction section 51 and the insertion length L of the branch pipes 50 are made different depending on the height position of the heat exchanger, but this is not limited to the above.

Focusing on the inner diameter D of the flow contraction section 51, the above configuration can be considered as an example of at least two branch pipes configured so that the inner diameter of the flow contraction section of the branch pipe through which the fluid distributed to the part of the heat exchanger where the air flows faster is larger than the inner diameter of the flow contraction section of the branch pipe through which the fluid distributed to the part of the heat exchanger where the air flows slower is larger.

Furthermore, when focusing on the insertion length L of the branch pipe 50, the above configuration can be considered as an example of a configuration in which at least two branch pipes are configured so that the insertion length into the outer pipe of one of the branch pipes through which the fluid distributed to the part of the heat exchanger where the air flows faster is shorter than the insertion length into the outer pipe of one of the branch pipes through which the fluid distributed to the part of the heat exchanger where the air flows slower is shorter.

[Second embodiment]
4 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the distributor 2 in the second embodiment. The distributor 2 also distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid passing through the inside. As shown in the figure, the distributor 2 includes a cylindrical outer pipe 10, an inlet portion 20 for guiding the refrigerant, which is welded to the upstream end of the outer pipe 10, and a cap portion 30 for blocking the flow of the refrigerant, which is welded to the downstream end of the outer pipe 10. An orifice plate is provided in the inlet portion 20, but is not shown in the figure because it cannot be seen from the outside. The distributor 2 also includes a plurality of branch pipes 50 that are joined to the outer pipe 10 and connected to refrigerant pipes of a heat exchanger (not shown).

The A-A cross-sectional view of the distributor 2 in Figure 4 is the cross-sectional view of Figure 2 with the tee 40 removed. Also in the second embodiment, the inner diameter D of the flow contraction section 51 is configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 4). Also in the second embodiment, the insertion length L is configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 4).

Alternatively, the A-A cross-sectional view of the distributor 2 in Figure 4 is the cross-sectional view of Figures 3-1 (a) and (b) with the tee 40 removed. In this case, the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53 and 54 are configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 4). Also in this case, the insertion length L is configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 4).

In this way, in the second embodiment, the multiple branch pipes 50 have different inner diameters D and insertion lengths L. This makes it possible to adjust the refrigerant distribution and increase the heat exchange capacity.

[Third embodiment]
The overall configuration of the distributor 3 in the third embodiment is the same as that shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 4. The distributor 3 also distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid passing through the inside. However, in the third embodiment, the outer pipe 10 is cylindrical. That is, the distributor 3 includes a cylindrical outer pipe 10, an inlet portion 20 for guiding the refrigerant, which is welded to the upstream end of the outer pipe 10, and a cap portion 30 for blocking the flow of the refrigerant, which is welded to the downstream end of the outer pipe 10. The distributor 3 also includes a plurality of tee pipes 40 provided on the outer pipe 10, and a plurality of branch pipes 50 that are joined to the outer pipe 10 by being inserted into the plurality of tee pipes 40, and are connected to the refrigerant pipes of a heat exchanger (not shown). Alternatively, the distributor 3 includes a plurality of branch pipes 50 that are joined to the outer pipe 10 and are connected to the refrigerant pipes of a heat exchanger (not shown).

Figure 5 is an A-A cross-sectional view of the distributor 3 in the third embodiment. Here, the A-A cross-sectional view is shown when the overall configuration of the distributor 3 is as shown in Figure 1. As shown in the figure, the branch pipe 50 is inserted into the outer pipe 10. Also in the third embodiment, the inner diameter D of the contraction section 51 is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 1). Also in the third embodiment, the insertion length L is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 1). Furthermore, in the third embodiment, a protrusion 11 is provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in the insertion direction of the branch pipe 50. Here, it is desirable that the protrusion 11 and the branch pipe 50 are structured so that the refrigerant inlet of the branch pipe 50 is not blocked (a flow path for the refrigerant is secured) even if the branch pipe 50 comes into contact with the protrusion 11. The protrusions 11 may be provided on the entire inner surface of the outer pipe 10 from the upstream end of the refrigerant to the downstream end of the refrigerant, or may be provided only on the inner surface of the portion of the outer pipe 10 where the branch pipe 50 is inserted.

Figure 5 also shows a modified example in which the branch pipe 50 has the shape shown in Figures 3-1 (a) and (b). In this case, the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53 and 54 are different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 1). Also in this case, the insertion length L is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 1). Furthermore, in this case, too, a protrusion 11 is provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in the insertion direction of the branch pipe 50.

The A-A cross-sectional view when the overall configuration of the distributor 3 is as shown in FIG. 4 is the cross-sectional view of FIG. 5 or its modified example with the tee 40 removed. In this case, too, the inner diameter D of the contraction section 51 is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 4). Alternatively, the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53, 54 are different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 4). Also, in this case, too, the insertion length L is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 4). Furthermore, in this case, too, a protrusion 11 is provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in the insertion direction of the branch pipe 50.

In this way, in the third embodiment, the multiple branch pipes 50 have different inner diameters D and insertion lengths L, and have protrusions 11 on the inner surface in the insertion direction of the branch pipes 50. This makes it possible to adjust the refrigerant distribution and increase the heat exchange capacity. In addition, the protrusions 11 also act as resistance, so providing the protrusions 11 can further reduce the flow rate.

[Fourth embodiment]
The overall configuration of the distributor 4 in the fourth embodiment is the same as that shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 4. The distributor 4 also distributes the refrigerant as an example of a fluid passing through the inside. However, in the fourth embodiment, the outer pipe 10 is a square tube. That is, the distributor 4 includes a plurality of outer pipes 10 each having a square tube shape, an inlet portion 20 for guiding the refrigerant, which is welded to the upstream end of the refrigerant of the outer pipe 10, and a cap portion 30 for blocking the flow of the refrigerant, which is welded to the downstream end of the refrigerant of the outer pipe 10. The distributor 4 also includes a plurality of tee pipes 40 provided on the outer pipe 10, and a plurality of branch pipes 50 that are joined to the outer pipe 10 by being inserted into the plurality of tee pipes 40, and are connected to the refrigerant pipes of a heat exchanger (not shown). Alternatively, the distributor 4 includes a plurality of branch pipes 50 that are joined to the outer pipe 10 and are connected to the refrigerant pipes of a heat exchanger (not shown).

FIG. 6 is an A-A cross-sectional view of the distributor 4 in the fourth embodiment. Here, the overall configuration of the distributor 4 is shown in FIG. 1, and the A-A cross-sectional view is shown when the outer pipe 10 is a square tube. As shown in the figure, the branch pipe 50 is inserted into the outer pipe 10. Also in the fourth embodiment, the inner diameter D of the flow contraction section 51 is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 1). Also in the fourth embodiment, the insertion length L is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 1). Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, a protrusion 12 is provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in the insertion direction of the branch pipe 50. Here, it is preferable that the protrusion 12 and the branch pipe 50 are structured so that the refrigerant inlet of the branch pipe 50 is not blocked (a flow path of the refrigerant is secured) even if the branch pipe 50 contacts the protrusion 12. In addition, the protrusion portion 12 may be provided on the entire inner surface of the outer pipe 10 from the refrigerant upstream end to the refrigerant downstream end, or may be provided only on the inner surface of the portion of the outer pipe 10 where the branch pipe 50 is inserted.

Figure 6 also shows a modified example in which the branch pipe 50 has the shape shown in Figures 3-1 (a) and (b). In this case, the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53 and 54 are different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 1). Also in this case, the insertion length L is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 1). Furthermore, in this case, too, a protrusion 12 is provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in the insertion direction of the branch pipe 50.

The overall configuration of the distributor 4 is shown in FIG. 4, and the A-A cross-sectional view when the outer pipe 10 is a square tube is the cross-sectional view of FIG. 6 or its modified example with the tee 40 removed. In this case, too, the inner diameter D of the contraction section 51 is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 4). Alternatively, the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53, 54 are different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 4). Also, in this case, too, the insertion length L is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 4). Furthermore, in this case, too, a protrusion 12 is provided on the inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in the insertion direction of the branch pipe 50.

In this way, in the fourth embodiment, the multiple branch pipes 50 have different inner diameters D and insertion lengths L, and have protrusions 12 on the inner surface in the insertion direction of the branch pipes 50. This makes it possible to adjust the refrigerant distribution and increase the heat exchange capacity. In addition, the protrusions 12 also act as resistance, so providing the protrusions 12 can further reduce the flow rate.

[Fifth embodiment]
The overall configuration of the distributor 5 in the fifth embodiment is the same as that shown in FIG. 1 or 4. The distributor 5 also distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid passing through the inside. The distributor 5 includes a plurality of cylindrical outer pipes 10, an inlet portion 20 for guiding the refrigerant, which is welded to the upstream end of the outer pipe 10, and a cap portion 30 for blocking the flow of the refrigerant, which is welded to the downstream end of the outer pipe 10. The distributor 5 also includes a plurality of tee pipes 40 provided on the outer pipe 10, and a plurality of branch pipes 50 that are joined to the outer pipe 10 by being inserted into the plurality of tee pipes 40, respectively, and connected to the refrigerant pipes of a heat exchanger (not shown). Alternatively, the distributor 5 includes a plurality of branch pipes 50 that are joined to the outer pipe 10 and connected to the refrigerant pipes of a heat exchanger (not shown).

Figure 7 is an A-A cross-sectional view of the distributor 5 in the fifth embodiment. Here, the A-A cross-sectional view is shown when the overall configuration of the distributor 5 is as shown in Figure 1. As shown in the figure, the branch pipe 50 is inserted into the outer pipe 10. Also in the fifth embodiment, the inner diameter D of the flow contraction section 51 is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 1). Also in the fifth embodiment, the insertion length L is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Figure 1). Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, triangular protrusions 13 are provided on the entire inner surface of the outer pipe 10.

8 is a diagram showing a modified example of the AA cross section of the distributor 5 in the fifth embodiment. In this case as well, the inner diameter D of the flow contraction section 51 is set between a plurality of branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 1).
In this case, too, the insertion length L is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 1). Furthermore, while triangular protrusions 13 are provided on the entire inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in FIG. 7, trapezoidal protrusions 14 are provided on the entire inner surface of the outer pipe 10 in FIG. 8. Alternatively, although not shown, semicircular protrusions similar in shape to protrusions 14 may be provided on the entire inner surface of the outer pipe 10.

In Fig. 7 or Fig. 8, there is also a modified example in which the branch pipe 50 has the shape shown in Fig. 3-1(a) or (b). In this case, the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53, 54 are different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Fig. 1). Also in this case, the insertion length L is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Fig. 1). Furthermore, in this case, too, protrusions such as triangular protrusions 13 and trapezoidal protrusions 14 are provided on the entire inner surface of the outer pipe 10.

The A-A cross-sectional view when the overall configuration of the distributor 5 is as shown in FIG. 4 is the cross-sectional view of FIG. 7 or FIG. 8 or its modified example with the tee 40 removed. In this case, too, the inner diameter D of the contraction section 51 is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 4). Alternatively, the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53, 54 are different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 4). Also, in this case, too, the insertion length L is different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 4). Furthermore, in this case, too, protrusions such as triangular protrusions 13 and trapezoidal protrusions 14 are provided on the entire inner surface of the outer pipe 10.

In this way, in the fifth embodiment, the multiple branch pipes 50 have different inner diameters D and insertion lengths L, and have protrusions such as protrusions 13 and 14 on the entire inner surface. This makes it possible to adjust the refrigerant distribution and increase the heat exchange capacity. In addition, protrusions such as protrusions 13 and 14 also act as resistance, so providing such protrusions can further reduce the flow rate.

Sixth embodiment
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the distributor 6 in the sixth embodiment. The overall configuration of the distributor 6 in the sixth embodiment is basically the same as that in FIG. 1. The distributor 6 also distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid passing through the inside. The distributor 6 includes a cylindrical outer pipe 10, an inlet portion 20 for guiding the refrigerant, which is welded to the refrigerant upstream end of the outer pipe 10, and a cap portion 30 for blocking the flow of the refrigerant, which is welded to the refrigerant downstream end of the outer pipe 10. The distributor 6 also includes a plurality of tee pipes 40 provided on the outer pipe 10, and a plurality of branch pipes 50 that are joined to the outer pipe 10 by being inserted into the plurality of tee pipes 40, and are connected to the refrigerant pipe of a heat exchanger (not shown). However, in the sixth embodiment, a Y branch 55 as an example of a branch pipe is provided on the refrigerant downstream side of the branch pipe 50, that is, on the opposite side to the side of the branch pipe 50 connected to the outer pipe 10.

Alternatively, the overall configuration of the distributor 6 in the sixth embodiment may be basically the same as that in FIG. 4. In this case, the distributor 6 distributes the refrigerant as an example of a fluid passing through the inside. The distributor 6 includes a cylindrical outer pipe 10, an inlet portion 20 for guiding the refrigerant, which is welded to the upstream end of the outer pipe 10, and a cap portion 30 for blocking the flow of the refrigerant, which is welded to the downstream end of the outer pipe 10. The distributor 6 also includes a plurality of branch pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 and connected to the refrigerant pipe of a heat exchanger (not shown). However, in the sixth embodiment, a Y-branch 55 as an example of a branch pipe is provided on the downstream side of the refrigerant of the branch pipe 50, that is, on the opposite side to the side of the branch pipe 50 connected to the outer pipe 10.

The A-A cross-sectional view of the distributor 6 in FIG. 9 is the same as FIG. 2 or FIG. 3-1(a) or (b) when the overall configuration of the distributor 6 is FIG. 1. In the sixth embodiment as well, the inner diameter D of the flow contraction section 51 is configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 1). Alternatively, the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53, 54 are configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 1). Also, in the sixth embodiment as well, the insertion length L is configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 1).

The A-A cross-sectional view of the distributor 6 in FIG. 9 is obtained by removing the tee 40 from the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 or FIG. 3-1(a) or (b) when the overall configuration of the distributor 6 is that of FIG. 4. In this case, too, the inner diameter D of the contraction section 51 is configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 4). Alternatively, the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53 and 54 are configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 4). Also, in this case, too, the insertion length L is configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 4).

In this way, in the sixth embodiment, the multiple branch pipes 50 have different inner diameters D and insertion lengths L, and have a Y-shaped branch 55 on the downstream side of the refrigerant. This makes it possible to adjust not only the refrigerant distribution in the outer pipe 10, but also the refrigerant distribution to the refrigerant pipes of the heat exchanger, thereby increasing the heat exchange capacity.

[Seventh embodiment]
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the distributor 7 in the seventh embodiment. The overall configuration of the distributor 7 in the seventh embodiment is basically the same as that in FIG. 1. The distributor 7 also distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid passing through the inside. As shown in the figure, the distributor 7 includes a cylindrical outer pipe 10, a plurality of tee pipes 40 provided on the outer pipe 10, and a plurality of branch pipes 50 that are joined to the outer pipe 10 by being inserted into the plurality of tee pipes 40, and are connected to a refrigerant pipe of a heat exchanger (not shown). The distributor 7 also includes an inlet portion 20 for guiding the refrigerant, which is welded to the upstream end of the outer pipe 10, and a cap portion 30 for blocking the flow of the refrigerant, which is welded to the downstream end of the outer pipe 10, (not shown). However, in the seventh embodiment, the outer pipe 10 is twisted, for example, spirally around the longitudinal axis of the distributor 7. In the seventh embodiment, the branch pipe 50 may be connected to any position in the longitudinal direction of the twisted outer pipe 10 .

Alternatively, the overall configuration of the distributor 7 in the seventh embodiment may be basically the same as that shown in FIG. 4. In this case, the distributor 7 distributes the refrigerant as an example of a fluid passing through the inside. The distributor 7 includes a cylindrical outer pipe 10, an inlet portion 20 for guiding the refrigerant, which is welded to the upstream end of the outer pipe 10, and a cap portion 30 for blocking the flow of the refrigerant, which is welded to the downstream end of the outer pipe 10. The distributor 7 also includes a plurality of branch pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 and connected to the refrigerant pipes of a heat exchanger (not shown). However, in the seventh embodiment, the outer pipe 10 is twisted, for example, helically around the longitudinal axis of the distributor 7. In addition, in the seventh embodiment, the branch pipes 50 may be connected to any position in the longitudinal direction of the twisted outer pipe 10.

Fig. 11 is a bottom view of the distributor 7 in Fig. 10. If the outer pipe 10 is twisted spirally, as shown in the figure, the portion ₁₀₄ of the outer pipe 10 below the lowest tee ₄₀₃ in Fig. 10 appears to be on the near side, and the portion ₁₀₃ of the outer pipe 10 above the tee ₄₀₃ appears to be on the far side, and these portions appear to overlap.

The A-A cross-sectional view of the distributor 7 in the seventh embodiment is the same as that in FIG. 2 or FIG. 3-1(a) or (b) when the overall configuration of the distributor 7 is based on FIG. 1. In the seventh embodiment as well, the inner diameter D of the flow contraction section 51 is configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (three branch pipes 50 in FIG. 10). Alternatively, the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53 and 54 are configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (three branch pipes 50 in FIG. 10). Also in the seventh embodiment as well, the insertion length L is configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (three branch pipes 50 in FIG. 10).

In addition, the A-A cross-sectional view of the distributor 7 in the seventh embodiment is obtained by removing the tee 40 from the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 or FIG. 3-1(a) or (b) when the overall configuration of the distributor 7 is based on FIG. 4. In this case, too, the inner diameter D of the contraction section 51 is configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (three branch pipes 50 in FIG. 10). Alternatively, the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53 and 54 are configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (three branch pipes 50 in FIG. 10). Also in this case, too, the insertion length L is configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (three branch pipes 50 in FIG. 10).

In this way, in the seventh embodiment, the multiple branch pipes 50 have different inner diameters D and insertion lengths L, and are twisted. This improves the mixing efficiency of the gas phase refrigerant and the liquid phase refrigerant, and allows the refrigerant flow to be adjusted, thereby increasing the heat exchange capacity.

[Eighth embodiment]
12 is a perspective view of the distributor 8 in the eighth embodiment. As shown in the figure, the distributor 8 in the eighth embodiment includes a first distributor 8a to a seventh distributor 8g.

The overall configuration of each of the first distributor 8a to the seventh distributor 8g is basically the same as that shown in FIG. 1. For example, the first distributor 8a will be described. The first distributor 8a also distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid passing through the inside. As shown in the figure, the first distributor 8a includes a cylindrical outer pipe 10a, a plurality of tee pipes 40a provided on the outer pipe 10a, and a plurality of branch pipes 50a that are joined to the outer pipe 10 by being inserted into the plurality of tee pipes 40a, and are connected to a refrigerant pipe of a heat exchanger (not shown). The first distributor 8a also includes an inlet portion 20a for guiding the refrigerant, which is welded to the upstream end of the refrigerant of the outer pipe 10a (not shown), and a cap portion 30a for blocking the flow of the refrigerant, which is welded to the downstream end of the refrigerant of the outer pipe 10a (not shown). However, in the eighth embodiment, the outer pipe 10a is twisted, for example, spirally around the longitudinal axis of the distributor 8. The same is true for the second distributor 8b to the seventh distributor 8g. In this case, each of the outer pipes 10a to 10g is an example of an outer pipe or another outer pipe, and each of the branch pipes 50a to 50g is an example of a branch pipe or another branch pipe. In the eighth embodiment, it is preferable to connect the branch pipes 50a to 50g to the same side (the right side in the figure) of the twisted outer pipes 10a to 10g in the distributor 8. In other words, it is preferable to connect the branch pipes 50a to 50g to positions of the twisted outer pipes 10a to 10g that are aligned in a substantially straight line. This is to connect the branch pipes 50a to 50g from the same direction.

Alternatively, the overall configuration of each of the first distributor 8a to the seventh distributor 8g may be basically the same as that shown in FIG. 4. In this case, for example, the first distributor 8a will be described. The first distributor 8a distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid passing through the inside. The first distributor 8a includes a cylindrical outer pipe 10a, an inlet portion 20a for guiding the refrigerant, which is welded to the upstream end of the outer pipe 10a, and a cap portion 30a for blocking the flow of the refrigerant, which is welded to the downstream end of the outer pipe 10a. The first distributor 8a also includes a plurality of branch pipes 50a joined to the outer pipe 10a and connected to the refrigerant pipes of a heat exchanger (not shown). However, in the eighth embodiment, the outer pipe 10a is twisted, for example, helically around the axis of the distributor 8 in the longitudinal direction. The same is true for the second distributor 8b to the seventh distributor 8g. In this case, each of the outer pipes 10a to 10g is an example of an outer pipe or another outer pipe, and each of the branch pipes 50a to 50g is an example of a branch pipe or another branch pipe. In the eighth embodiment, it is preferable to connect the branch pipes 50a to 50g to the same side (the right side in the figure) of the twisted outer pipes 10a to 10g in the distributor 8. In other words, it is preferable to connect the branch pipes 50a to 50g to positions of the twisted outer pipes 10a to 10g that are aligned in a substantially straight line. This is to connect the branch pipes 50a to 50g from the same direction.

Figure 13 is a bottom view of the distributor 8 in Figure 12. If the outer tubes 10a to 10g are twisted in a spiral shape, as shown in the figure, the parts of the outer tubes 10a to 10g below the lowest cheese 40g in Figure 12 are visible on the near side, but the parts of the outer tubes 10a to 10g above the cheese 40g overlap with these on the far side and are not visible.

In the eighth embodiment, the A-A cross-sectional view of each of the first distributor 8a to the seventh distributor 8g is the same as that of FIG. 2 or FIG. 3-1(a) and (b) when the overall configuration of each of the first distributor 8a to the seventh distributor 8g is based on FIG. 1. For example, in the first distributor 8a, the inner diameter D of the contraction section 51 is different between the multiple branch pipes 50a (three branch pipes 50a in FIG. 12) in the eighth embodiment. Alternatively, the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53 and 54 are different between the multiple branch pipes 50a (three branch pipes 50a in FIG. 12). Also, in the eighth embodiment, the insertion length L is different between the multiple branch pipes 50a (three branch pipes 50a in FIG. 12). The same is true for the second distributor 8b to the seventh distributor 8g.

In addition, the A-A cross-sectional views of the first distributor 8a to the seventh distributor 8g in the eighth embodiment are obtained by removing the tee 40a to 40g from the cross-sectional views of FIG. 2 or FIG. 3-1(a) and (b) when the overall configuration of the first distributor 8a to the seventh distributor 8g is based on FIG. 4. For example, in the first distributor 8a, the inner diameter D of the contraction section 51 is different between the multiple branch pipes 50a (three branch pipes 50a in FIG. 12). Alternatively, the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53 and 54 are different between the multiple branch pipes 50a (three branch pipes 50a in FIG. 12). Also, in this case, the insertion length L is different between the multiple branch pipes 50a (three branch pipes 50a in FIG. 12). The same is true for the second distributor 8b to the seventh distributor 8g.

In this way, in the eighth embodiment, the multiple branch pipes 50 have different inner diameters D and insertion lengths L, and are twisted. This improves the mixing efficiency of the gas phase refrigerant and the liquid phase refrigerant, and allows the refrigerant flow to be adjusted, thereby increasing the heat exchange capacity.

[Ninth embodiment]
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a heat exchanger unit including a distributor 9 and a heat exchanger 60 according to the ninth embodiment.

The overall configuration of the distributor 9 included in the heat exchanger unit in the ninth embodiment is the same as that shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 4. The distributor 9 also distributes a refrigerant as an example of a fluid passing through the inside. The distributor 9 includes a cylindrical outer pipe 10, an inlet portion 20 for guiding the refrigerant, which is welded to the upstream end of the refrigerant of the outer pipe 10, and a cap portion 30 for blocking the flow of the refrigerant, which is welded to the downstream end of the refrigerant of the outer pipe 10. The distributor 9 also includes a plurality of tee pipes 40 provided on the outer pipe 10, and a plurality of branch pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10 by being inserted into the plurality of tee pipes 40. Alternatively, the distributor 9 includes a plurality of branch pipes 50 joined to the outer pipe 10.

The A-A cross-sectional view of the distributor 9 in Fig. 14 is the same as Fig. 2 or Fig. 3-1(a) or (b) when the overall configuration of the distributor 9 is that of Fig. 1. In the ninth embodiment as well, the inner diameter D of the flow contraction section 51 is configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Fig. 1). Alternatively, the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53, 54 are configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Fig. 1). Also in the ninth embodiment as well, the insertion length L is configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in Fig. 1).

The A-A cross-sectional view of the distributor 9 in FIG. 14 is obtained by removing the tee 40 from the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 or FIG. 3-1(a) or (b) when the overall configuration of the distributor 9 is that of FIG. 4. In this case, too, the inner diameter D of the contraction section 51 is configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 4). Alternatively, the diameters of the front hole 52 and the side holes 53 and 54 are configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 4). Also, in this case, too, the insertion length L is configured to be different between the multiple branch pipes 50 (five branch pipes 50 in FIG. 4).

The heat exchanger 60 included in the heat exchanger unit in the ninth embodiment exchanges heat between the refrigerant, which is an example of a fluid distributed by the distributor 9, and air. It has a number of fins 61 arranged at predetermined intervals in the vertical direction, a number of refrigerant pipes 62, which are an example of a number of fluid pipes, arranged in parallel to be inserted into the insertion holes of each fin 61, a header 63 that joins the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant pipes 62, and an external connection pipe 64 that allows the refrigerant to flow out of the heat exchanger 60 from the header 63.

The multiple branch pipes 50 of the distributor 9 are then each connected to multiple refrigerant pipes 62 of the heat exchanger 60.

In this way, in the ninth embodiment, the multiple branch pipes 50 have different inner diameters D and insertion lengths L. This makes it possible to adjust the refrigerant distribution and increase the heat exchange capacity.

1-9...Distributor, 10...Outer pipe, 20...Inlet section, 30...Cap section, 40...Tee, 50...Branch pipe, 60...Heat exchanger

Claims (10)

A cylindrical outer tube;
a plurality of branch pipes connected to the outer pipe;
At least two of the branch pipes among the plurality of branch pipes are configured to have at least one of an inner diameter of a flow contraction portion and an insertion length into the outer pipe different from each other ;
A distributor characterized in that a protrusion is provided only on the inner surface of the outer pipe at a portion where the branch pipe is connected . The distributor according to claim 1, characterized in that the outer tube has a cylindrical shape. The distributor according to claim 1, characterized in that the outer tube has a rectangular cylindrical shape. 2. The distributor according to claim 1 , wherein the projection is provided on an inner surface of the outer pipe in an insertion direction of the branch pipe. The distributor according to claim 1, characterized in that a branch pipe is provided on the side of the branch pipe opposite the side connected to the outer pipe. The distributor of claim 1, characterized in that the outer tube is twisted about a longitudinal axis. Another cylindrical outer tube;
a plurality of other branch pipes connected to the other outer pipe,
the other outer tube is twisted around the axis;
The distributor according to claim 6, characterized in that at least two of the plurality of other branch pipes are configured to have at least one of an inner diameter and an insertion length into the other outer pipe different from each other. A cylindrical outer tube;
a plurality of branch pipes connected to the outer pipe;
At least two of the plurality of branch pipes are configured such that holes provided on any surface of a portion inserted into the outer pipe have different diameters ;
A distributor characterized in that a protrusion is provided only on the inner surface of the outer pipe at a portion where the branch pipe is connected . A distributor that distributes a fluid passing therethrough;
a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the fluid distributed by the distributor and air,
The distributor comprises:
A cylindrical outer tube;
a plurality of branch pipes connected to the outer pipe;
At least two of the branch pipes among the plurality of branch pipes are configured to have at least one of an inner diameter of a flow contraction portion and an insertion length into the outer pipe different from each other ;
A heat exchanger unit, characterized in that a protrusion is provided only on the inner surface of the outer pipe at a portion where the branch pipe is connected . A distributor that distributes a fluid passing therethrough;
a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the fluid distributed by the distributor and air,
The distributor comprises:
A cylindrical outer tube;
a plurality of branch pipes connected to the outer pipe;
At least two of the plurality of branch pipes are configured such that holes provided on any surface of a portion inserted into the outer pipe have different diameters ;
A heat exchanger unit, characterized in that a protrusion is provided only on the inner surface of the outer pipe at a portion where the branch pipe is connected .

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