Heat exchanger

A heat exchanger is disclosed for transferring energy between a first flowing fluid and a second flowing fluid. The heat exchanger comprises a first, second and third tube having an input end and an output end. A primary and a secondary angled couplers join the output end of the first tube to the input end of the second tube and the output end of the second tube to the input end of the third tube respectively. A continuous conduit conveys the second flowing fluid between a conduit input and a conduit output. The continuous conduit has a cross sectional area less than the cross sectional area of the first tube and the third tube for enabling the continuous conduit to be inserted within the first tube and the third tube. The continuous conduit enters a first aperture to extend inside the first tube for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid and the second flowing fluid. The continuous conduit exits from a second aperture of the primary angled coupler to extend outside the second tube. The continuous conduit enters a third aperture of the secondary angled coupler to extend inside the third tube for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid and the second flowing fluid. The continuous conduit exits a fourth aperture to extend outside the third tube.

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Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to thermal energy and more particularly to an improved apparatus for transferring energy between a first flowing fluid and a second flowing fluid.

2. Background of the Invention

Various types of apparatuses have been proposed for transferring thermal energy between two fluids. A heat exchanger is a device used for transferring thermal energy between a first flowing fluid and a second flowing fluid. Heat exchangers are commonly used in refrigeration, air conditioning, space heating, power production and chemical processing. Heat exchangers are designed to maximize the surface area of the wall between the two fluids and minimizing the resistance of the fluid flow through the exchanger. The efficiently of a heat exchanger can also be affected by the addition of fins or corrugations on one or both directions, which increase surface area and may channel fluid flow or induce turbulence. The performance of the heat exchanger may also be affected by the direction of flow of a first flowing fluid and a second flowing fluid.

Although the efficiently of a heat exchanger are important design criteria, the cost of materials, manufacture and maintenance of the heat exchanger also are important considerations before a heat exchanger is utilized. The following U.S. Patents are examples of attempts of the prior art to solve these efficiently and cost issues.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,469,762 to Singh discloses a self-draining decomposition heat exchanger arrangement for a metal-halogen battery system. The arrangement has a decomposition heat exchanger positioned higher than the electrolyte collected in the sump of the electrode stack section of the battery system to allow electrolyte to drain out of the heat exchanger when electrolyte is not being circulated therethrough. The heat exchanger has an inlet portion, an outlet portion, and a central portion that is preferably formed of helically coiled tubing and that preferably slopes continuously downward to promote complete drainage. The arrangement preferably also has vent means connected to the gas space above the sump in the stack section and attached to conduit means between the outlet of the electrolyte pump and inlet of the heat exchanger for improving drainage of the heat exchanger by allowing gas to enter the heat exchanger to replace the electrolyte as it drains therefrom.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,518,663 to Kodali, et al. discloses an improved electrolyte circulation subsystem which reduces and minimizes the effect of parasitic currents in secondary batteries having a plurality of cells connected electrically in series and a common electrolyte in communication with the cells is described. The improved electrolyte circulation subsystem includes means for pumping an electrolyte, and manifold means for conveying electrolyte to a plurality of cells connected electrically in series. The manifold means generally comprises an outer tube formed with an outlet port at each end thereof, and an inner tube concentrically disposed within the outer tube generally along one-half of the outer tube length. The inner tube is in fluid communication with the pumping means at a first end thereof and is in fluid communication with the outer tube at a second end thereof. The inner tube also has means associated with the second end for generally equally diverting the flow of the electrolyte through the inner tube to each of the outlet ports of the outer tube. The electrolyte circulation subsystem also includes a separate conduit means in fluid communication with each of the outlet ports of the outer tube for individually distributing electrolyte from the outlet tube to generally one-half of the cells.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,518,664 to whittlesey, et al. discloses an electrode assembly comprising a first electrode, a pair of second planar electrodes, a generally rectangular frame member for supporting each of the second electrodes substantially along three sides thereof. The rectangular frame member has a pair of spaced inwardly extending channels through which the second electrodes slide into and mask the edges of the second electrodes along the three supported sides, and a laterally displaced integrally formed, inwardly facing elongate channel along an unsupported side of the second electrode which is adjacent to an external face of one of the second electrodes and shaped to receive one side of the first electrode while masking the adjacent second electrode along the unsupported side thereof. A generally elongated frame member couples to the rectangular frame member between the second electrodes along the unsupported edge thereof. Conduit means associated with the elongated frame member conveys fluid to the cavity between the second electrodes.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,571,475 to Rabe discloses an internal bore welding torch assembly and method for use in making remote arc welds inside metal tubes. The torch assembly includes a torch body unit of plastic electrical insulating material, to which is connected the necessary welding services of coolant, shield gas, and electric power. The body unit contains a removable and rotatable welding wand which is made of flexible plastic and has a welding electrode oriented radially at its outer end. For making a weld, such as for repairing a damaged tube, a metal sleeve is first inserted into the tube the flexible welding wand is then inserted into the tube and the radial electrode positioned adjacent an end of the sleeve. The flows of coolant and shield gas are provided through the torch body unit to the wand, and the wand is rotated while making the metal arc welds desired to seal weld the sleeve ends to the tube.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,690,208 to Deck discloses a heat exchanging system for exchanging heat with contaminated water including a housing having a coaxial tube exchanger assembly with return passages in the housing ends for the outer tubes and return tube bends for the inner tubes. A filter at the inlet of the coaxial tube assembly is formed of a number of passages in parallel with right angle bends defined by parallel fins between a bottom plate and transparent top plate. For cleaning there is a pressure chamber, a fill valve and an air valve intermittently activated. There is also a drain valve and a vacuum release valve. Heat exchanger tube is manufactured by rotatably and axially feeding tubing through a repeating impacting pointed power hammer that forms sharp edge craters on the exterior of the tube and sharp peaks on the interior. An impact tool driven by a powered impact hammer strikes the tubing passing through a tube pathway defined by variable direction rollers. A power drive roller has its axis askew to the axis of the tube.

U.S. Patent Application 20050043725 to Duong, et al. discloses a threaded cryostat for a cryosurgical probe system including an outer tube and a hollow elongated threaded element positioned within the outer tube. The threaded element has integral, external threads that extend from on an outer surface thereof. During operation a working fluid is transported in a first direction between a fluid supply line and a distal end of a cryosurgical probe within a first space defined within the threaded element. Working fluid is transported in a second direction between the distal end of the cryosurgical probe and the fluid supply line within a second space defined between the outer tube and the threaded element.

Although the aforementioned prior art have contributed to the development of the art of heat exchangers, none of these prior art patents have solved the needs of this art.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved heat exchanger for transferring thermal energy between a first flowing fluid and a second flowing fluid.

Another object of this invention is to provide an improved heat exchanger wherein the materials used to construct the heat exchanger are inexpensive and easily obtained.

Another object of this invention is to provide an improved heat exchanger wherein the time required to assemble the heat exchanger is reduced.

Another object of this invention is to provide an improved heat exchanger wherein the cost of manufacturing the heat exchanger is reduced.

The foregoing has outlined some of the more pertinent objects of the present invention. These objects should be construed as being merely illustrative of some of the more prominent features and applications of the invention. Many other beneficial results can be obtained by modifying the invention within the scope of the invention. Accordingly other objects in a full understanding of the invention may be had by referring to the summary of the invention, the detailed description describing the preferred embodiment in addition to the scope of the invention defined by the claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A specific embodiment of the present invention is shown in the attached drawings. For the purpose of summarizing the invention, the invention relates to an improved heat exchanger for transferring energy between a first flowing fluid and a second flowing fluid. The heat exchanger comprises a first tube having an input end and an output end. A second tube has an input end and an output end. A primary angled coupler joins the output end of the first tube to the input end of the second tube for creating a first continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid. A third tube has an input end and an output end. A secondary angled coupler joins the output end of the second tube to the input end of the third tube for creating a second continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid. A fourth tube has an input end and an output end. An input angled coupler joins the output end of the fourth tube to the input end of the first tube for creating a third continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid. A fifth tube has an input end and an output end. An initial angled coupler joins the output end of the fifth tube to the input end of the fourth tube for creating a fourth continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid. A subsequent angled coupler is secured on the input end of the fifth tube for inputting the first flowing fluid into the fifth tube. An output angled coupler is secured on the output end of the third tube for outputting the first flowing fluid from the third tube. A first aperture is positioned in the input angled coupler. A second aperture is positioned in the primary angled coupler. A third aperture is positioned in the secondary angled coupler. A fourth aperture is positioned in the output angled coupler. A fifth aperture is positioned in the initial angled coupler. A sixth aperture is positioned in the subsequent angled coupler. A continuous conduit conveys the second flowing fluid between a conduit input and a conduit output. The continuous conduit has a cross sectional area less than a cross sectional area of the first tube, the third tube and the fifth tube for enabling the continuous conduit to be inserted within the first tube, the third tube and the fifth tube. The continuous conduit enters the first aperture to extend inside the first tube for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid and the second flowing fluid. The continuous conduit exits from the second aperture of the primary angled coupler to extend outside the second tube. The continuous conduit enters the third aperture of said secondary angled coupler to extend inside the third tube for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid and the second flowing fluid. The continuous conduit exits the fourth aperture to extend outside the third tube. The continuous conduit enters the fifth aperture of the initial angled coupler to extend inside the fifth tube for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid and the second flowing fluid. The continuous conduit exits the sixth aperture to extend outside the fifth tube.

In a more specific embodiment of the invention, the first tube, second tube, and third tube, the primary angled coupler, secondary angled coupler, input angled coupler and the output angled coupler include a polymeric material. The continuous conduit includes a metallic material. The primary angled coupler, secondary angled coupler, input angled coupler and the output angled coupler includes a ninety degree coupler. The direction of flow of the first flowing fluid in the first tube, second tube and the third tube matches the direction of flow of the second flowing fluid in the continuous conduit. The direction of flow of the first flowing fluid in the fifth tube is opposite to the direction of flow of the second flowing fluid in the continuous conduit.

In one embodiment of the invention, an open reservoir contains the first flowing fluid. The first, second and third tubes and the continuous conduit are positioned within the open reservoir. A first pump is linked to the input orifice of the first tube for propelling the first flowing fluid from the input end of the first tube through the first continuous fluid path and the second continuous fluid path to the output end of the third tube. A compressor is linked to the continuous conduit for propelling the second flowing fluid through the continuous conduit.

In another embodiment of the invention, a closed reservoir contains the first flowing fluid. The first, second and third tubes and the continuous conduit are positioned within the closed reservoir. A first pump is linked to the input orifice of the first tube for propelling the first flowing fluid from the input end of the first tube through the first continuous fluid path and the second continuous fluid path to the output end of the third tube. A compressor is linked to the continuous conduit for propelling the second flowing fluid through the continuous conduit.

The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the more pertinent and important features of the present invention in order that the detailed description that follows may be better understood so that the present contribution to the art can be more fully appreciated. Additional features of the invention will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the invention. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and the specific embodiments disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present invention. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a fuller understanding of the nature and objects of the invention, reference should be made to the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is an elevational view of a first embodiment of the present invention illustrating a heat exchanger transferring energy between a first flowing fluid and a second flowing fluid;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 1 illustrating the heat exchanger positioned within an open reservoir;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 4 with a portion having a sectional view;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 3;

FIG. 7 is a view similar to FIG. 6 with a portion having a sectional view;

FIG. 8 is a view similar to FIG. 2 illustrating the heat exchanger in a horizontal position;

FIG. 9 is a top view of a second embodiment of the present invention illustrating a heat exchanger transferring energy between a first flowing fluid and a second flowing fluid;

FIG. 10 is a side view of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a front view of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is a sectional view along line 12-12 in FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 12; and

FIG. 14 is an ladder electrical diagram for operating the heat exchanger.

Similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the several Figures of the drawings.

DETAILED DISCUSSION

FIGS. 1 thru 8 illustrate a first embodiment of a heat exchanger 2 for transferring energy between a first flowing fluid 4 and a second flowing fluid 6. The heat exchanger 2 includes a first tube 10 having an input end 12 and an output end 14. A second tube 20 has an input end 22 and an output end 24. A primary angled coupler 62 joins the output end 14 of the first tube 10 to the input end 22 of the second tube 20 for creating a first continuous fluid path 70 for the first flowing fluid 4. A third tube 30 has an input end 32 and an output end 34. A secondary angled coupler 64 joins the output end 24 of the second tube 20 to the input end 32 of the third tube 30 for creating a second continuous fluid path 72 for the first flowing fluid 4.

The first tube 10, second tube 20 and the third tube 30 may be constructed from polyethene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), polybutylene, polyethylene, polyvinylidine Difluoride (PVDF), rubber, neoprene, sheet plastic, metal, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or other rigid material. The primary angled coupler 62 and the secondary angled coupler 64 may include a ninety degree coupler 69 constructed from polyethene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), polybutylene, polyethylene, polyvinylidine Difluoride (PVDF), rubber, neoprene, sheet plastic, metal, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or other rigid material. An adhesive may be utilized to secure the primary angled coupler 62 to the output end 14 of the first tube 10 to the input end 22 of the second tube 20 and to secure the secondary angled coupler 64 to the input end 32 of the third tube to the output end 24 of the second tube 20. The adhesive may include a solvent cement such as acrylic adhesive, polyurethane adhesive or other adhesive suited to the tubing and coupling construction.

An input orifice 16 is located at the input end 12 of the first tube 10 for inputting the first flowing fluid 4 into the first tube 10. An output orifice 36 is located at said output end 34 of the third tube 30 for outputting the first flowing fluid 4 from the third tube 30.

A first aperture 80 is positioned relative to the input end 12 of the first tube 10. A second aperture 82 is positioned in the primary angled coupler 62. A third aperture 84 is positioned in the secondary angled coupler 64. A fourth aperture 86 is positioned relative to the output end 34 of the third tube 30. The second aperture 82 and the third aperture 84 may be manufactured by drilling a hole through the primary angled coupler 62 and secondary angled coupler 64 respectively.

A continuous conduit 100 conveys the second flowing fluid 6 between a conduit input 102 and a conduit output 104. The continuous conduit 100 may include a metallic material such as copper, steel, aluminum or other rigid material. The continuous conduit 100 has a cross sectional area less than a cross sectional area of the first tube 10 and the third tube 30 for enabling the continuous conduit 100 to be inserted within the first tube 10 and the third tube 30.

Preferably, the diameter of the first aperture 80, second aperture 82, third aperture 84 and fourth aperture 86 are slightly larger than the outside diameter of the continuous conduit 100 such that the continuous conduit 100 may easily traverse into the respective tubes. The continuous conduit 100 enters the first aperture 80 to extend inside the first tube 10 for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid 4 and the second flowing fluid 6. The continuous conduit 100 exits from the second aperture 82 of the primary angled coupler 62 to extend outside the second tube 20. The continuous conduit 100 enters the third aperture 84 of the secondary angled coupler 64 to extend inside the third tube 30 for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid 4 and the second flowing fluid 6. The continuous conduit 100 exits the fourth aperture 86 to extend outside the third tube 30.

The insertion of the continuous conduit 100 into the first tube 10 for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid 4 and the second flowing fluid 6 constitutes a single pass heat exchanger 114. The insertion of the continuous conduit 100 into the first tube 10 and the second tube 20 for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid 4 and the second flowing fluid 6 constitutes a double pass heat exchanger 116.

An input angled coupler 60 may be secured on the input end 12 of the first tube 10. The first aperture 80 is positioned in the input angled coupler 60. An output angled coupler 66 may be secured on the output end 34 of the third tube 30. The fourth aperture 86 is positioned in the output angled coupler 66. The input angled coupler 60 and the output angled coupler 66 may include a ninety degree coupler 69 constructed from polyethene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), polybutylene, polyethylene, polyvinylidine Difluoride (PVDF), rubber, neoprene, sheet plastic, metal, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or other rigid material. An adhesive may be utilized to secure the input angled coupler 60 to the input end 12 of the first tube 10 and to secure the output angled coupler 66 to the output end 34 of the third tube 30. The adhesive may include a solvent cement such as acrylic adhesive, polyurethane adhesive or other adhesive suited to the tubing and coupling construction.

Preferably, the first aperture 80 and second aperture 82 are aligned with the first tube 10 such that the continuous conduit 100 may traverse directly through the first aperture 80 and second aperture 82 to enter and exit the first tube 10 without bending the continuous conduit 100. Similarly, the third aperture 84 and fourth aperture 86 are aligned with the third tube 30 such that the continuous conduit 100 may traverse directly through the third aperture 84 and fourth aperture 86 to enter and exit the third tube 30 without bending the continuous conduit 100. After the continuous conduit 100 exits from the second aperture 82, the continuous conduit 100 preferably includes an arch contour 106 to redirect the continuous conduit 100 one hundred eighty degrees (180°) permitting the continuous conduit 100 to enter the third aperture 84. The arch contour 106 may be created by a pipe bender or other techniques that provides a uniform contour. The arch contour 106 eliminates the need for return bend couplings that may lead to leaking of the second flowing fluid 6 and further resist the flow of the second flowing fluid 6. Alternatively, the continuous conduit 100 may include a series of trombone shaped metal tubes with return bend couplings.

As seen in FIGS. 1-3 and 8 the output angled coupler 66 of the third tube 30 may be secured to an additional input angled coupler 60 of the first tube 10 to form a plurality of first fluid paths 70 and a plurality of second fluid paths 72. If a plurality of first fluid paths 72 and second fluid paths 72 are linked together, the continuous conduit 100 will also be inserted into the additional first tubes 10 and third tubes 30. By forming multiple first fluid paths 70 and second fluid paths 72, a plurality of double pass heat exchangers 116 may be linked together to form any desired length of the heat exchanger 2. A plurality of separate heat exchangers 2 may also be utilized in parallel wherein each heat exchanger 2 includes separate input angled couplers 60, separate first tubes 10, second tubes 20, third tubes 30 and separate output angled couplers 66. The separate heat exchangers 2 may be linked to a common tube manifold 110 and a common continuous conduit manifold 112.

The heat exchanger 2 is shown having a linear first tube 10, second tube 20 and the third tube 30 with a linear continuous conduit 100 portion extending inside the first 10 and second 20 tubes. In the alternative, the first tube, second 20 and portion of continuous conduit 100 extending inside the first 10 and second 20 tubes may have circular configuration in order to reduce the size of the heat exchanger 2.

A fourth tube 40 has an input end 42 and an output end 44. The input angled coupler 60 joins the output end 44 of the fourth tube 40 to the input end 12 of the first tube 10 for creating a third continuous fluid path 74 for the first flowing fluid 4. A fifth tube 50 has an input end 52 and an output end 54. An initial angled coupler 67 joins the output end 54 of the fifth tube 50 to the input end 42 of the fourth tube 40 for creating a fourth continuous fluid path 76 for the first flowing fluid 4. A subsequent angled coupler 68 is secured on the input end 52 of the fifth tube 50 for inputting the first flowing fluid 4 into the fifth tube 50. A fifth aperture 88 is positioned in the initial angled coupler 67. A sixth aperture 90 is positioned in the subsequent angled coupler 68.

The fourth tube 40 and fifth tube 50 may be constructed from polyethene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), polybutylene, polyethylene, polyvinylidine Difluoride (PVDF), rubber, neoprene, sheet plastic, metal, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or other rigid material. The initial angled coupler 67 and the subsequent angled coupler 68 may include a ninety degree coupler 69 constructed from polyethene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), polybutylene, polyethylene, polyvinylidine Difluoride (PVDF), rubber, neoprene, sheet plastic, metal, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or other rigid material. An adhesive may be utilized to secure the input angled coupler 60 to the output end 42 of the fourth tube 40 to the input end 12 of the first tube 10. An adhesive may also be utilized to secure the initial angled coupler 67 to the output end 54 of the fifth tube 50 to the input end 42 of the fourth tube 40 and the subsequent angled coupler 68 to the input end 52 of the fifth tube 50. The adhesive may include a solvent cement such as acrylic adhesive, polyurethane adhesive or other adhesive suited to the tubing and coupling construction.

The continuous conduit 100 has a cross sectional area less than a cross sectional area of the fifth tube 50 for enabling the continuous conduit 100 to be inserted within the fifth tube 50. Preferably, the diameter of the fifth aperture 88 and sixth aperture 90 are slightly larger than the outside diameter of the continuous conduit 100 such that the continuous conduit 100 may easily traverse into the respective tubes. After the continuous conduit 100 exits the fourth aperture 86 to extend outside the third tube 30, the continuous conduit 100 may enter the fifth aperture 88 of the initial angled coupler 67 to extend inside the fifth tube 50 for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid 4 and the second flowing fluid 6. Thereafter the continuous conduit 100 exits the sixth aperture 90 to extend outside the fifth tube 50. The insertion of the continuous conduit 100 into the fifth tube 50 for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid 4 and the second flowing fluid 6 constitutes a single pass heat exchanger.

Preferably, the fifth aperture 88 and sixth aperture 90 are aligned with the fifth tube 50 such that the continuous conduit 100 may traverse directly through the fifth aperture 88 and sixth aperture 90 to enter and exit the fifth tube 50 without bending the continuous conduit 100. After the continuous conduit 100 exits from the fourth aperture 86, the continuous conduit 100 preferably includes an semi-arch contour 108 to redirect the continuous conduit 100 ninety degrees (90°) such that the continuous conduit 100 may enter the fifth aperture 88 and avoid resistance flow of the second flowing fluid 6.

The direction of flow of the first flowing fluid 4 in the first tube 10, second tube 20 and the third tube 30 preferably match the direction of flow of the second flowing fluid 6 in the continuous conduit 100. The direction of flow of the first flowing fluid 4 in the fifth tube 50 preferably is opposite to the direction of flow of the second flowing fluid 6 in the continuous conduit 100 to function as a super heater or super chiller.

In the first embodiment of the present invention the heat exchanger 2 is positioned within an open reservoir 120 containing the first flowing fluid 4. The open reservoir 120 may include a tank liner 122 for preventing leakage of the first flowing fluid 4 from the open reservoir 120. In addition, the open reservoir 120 may include a tank insulation layer 124 and a top insulation layer 126 to resist the thermal transfer of energy between the first flowing fluid 4 and the exterior. The first tube 10, second tube 20, third tube 30 and the continuous conduit 100 are positioned within the open reservoir 120. A first pump 130 is positioned on the bottom of the open reservoir 120 for propelling the first flowing fluid 4 from the input end 12 of the first tube 10 through the first continuous fluid path 70 and the second continuous fluid path 72 to the output end 34 of the third tube 30. A compressor 162 is linked inline with the continuous conduit 100 for propelling the second flowing fluid 6 through the continuous conduit 100.

Since the diameter of the apertures 80-90 are slightly larger than the outside diameter of the continuous conduit 100, the first flowing fluid 4 that is propelled through angled couplers 60-68 will leach from between the apertures 80-90 and outer wall of the continuous conduit 100. The leaching of the first flowing fluid 4 from the apertures 80-90 is not significant since the heat exchanger 2 is submerged beneath the first flowing fluid 4.

As best seen in FIG. 8 the first pump 130 may be placed within a pump enclosure 139. An inlet end 134 traverses through the pump enclosure 139 and is secured to the fluid input of the first pump 130. An output end 136 also traverses through the pump enclosure 139 and is secured between the fluid output of the first pump 130 and the input end 12 of the first tube 10. The first pump 130 positioned within the pump enclosure 139 assures that only the first flowing fluid 4 located at the top of the open reservoir 120 is propelling through the first continuous fluid path 70 and the second continuous fluid path 72. A first pump union 138 may be positioned within the output end 136 to facilitate removal of the first pump 130 if maintenance or replacement is required.

FIGS. 9 thru 13 illustrate a second embodiment of a heat exchanger 2 for transferring energy between a first flowing fluid 4 and a second flowing fluid 6. The closed reservoir 210 comprises a cylindrical body 212 having a front end 214 and a rear end 216. The cylindrical body 212 includes a first flowing fluid input bore 218 and a first flowing fluid output bore 220 for enabling a continuous tube 219 to enter and exit the closed reservoir 210 respectively. The first 10, second 20 and third 30 tubes and the continuous conduit 100 are positioned within the closed reservoir 210.

The continuous tube 219 is secured to the first tube 10 by the input angled coupler 60. The continuous tube 219 is further secured to the third tube 30 by the output angled coupler 66. The front end 214 of the closed reservoir 210 includes a second flowing fluid input bore 222 and a second flowing fluid output bore 224 for enabling the continuous conduit 100 to enter and exit the closed reservoir 210 respectively.

The closed reservoir 210 may be constructed from polyethene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), polybutylene, polyethylene, polyvinylidine Difluoride (PVDF), rubber, neoprene, sheet plastic, metal, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or other rigid material. The initial angled coupler 67 and the subsequent angled coupler 68 may include a ninety degree coupler 69 constructed from polyethene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), polybutylene, polyethylene, polyvinylidine Difluoride (PVDF), rubber, neoprene, sheet plastic, metal, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or other rigid material.

The first tube 10 has an input end 12 and an output end 14. The second tube 20 has an input end 22 and an output end 24. The primary angled coupler 62 joins the output end 14 of the first tube 10 to the input end 22 of the second tube 20 for creating a first continuous fluid path 70 for the first flowing fluid 4. The third tube 30 has an input end 32 and an output end 34. A secondary angled coupler 64 joins the output end 24 of the second tube 20 to the input end 32 of the third tube 30 for creating a second continuous fluid path 72 for the first flowing fluid 4.

The first tube 10, second tube 20 and the third tube 30 may be constructed from polyethene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), polybutylene, polyethylene, polyvinylidine Difluoride (PVDF), rubber, neoprene, sheet plastic, metal, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or other rigid material. The primary angled coupler 62 and the secondary angled coupler 64 may include a ninety degree coupler 69 constructed from polyethene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), polybutylene, polyethylene, polyvinylidine Difluoride (PVDF), rubber, neoprene, sheet plastic, metal, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or other rigid material. An adhesive may be utilized to secure the primary angled coupler 62 to the output end 14 of the first tube 10 to the input end 22 of the second tube 20 and to secure the secondary angled coupler 64 to the input end 32 of the third tube to the output end 24 of the second tube 20. The adhesive may include a solvent cement such as acrylic adhesive, polyurethane adhesive or other adhesive suited to the tubing and coupling construction.

An input orifice 16 is located at the input end 12 of the first tube 10 for inputting the first flowing fluid 4 into the first tube 10. An output orifice 36 is located at said output end 34 of the third tube 30 for outputting the first flowing fluid 4 from the third tube 30.

A first aperture 80 is positioned relative to the input end 12 of the first tube 10. A second aperture 82 is positioned in the primary angled coupler 62. A third aperture 84 is positioned in the secondary angled coupler 64. A fourth aperture 86 is positioned relative to the output end 34 of the third tube 30. The second aperture 82 and the third aperture 84 may be manufactured by drilling a hole through the primary angled coupler 62 and secondary angled coupler 64 respectively.

The continuous conduit 100 conveys the second flowing fluid 6 between a conduit input 102 and a conduit output 104. The continuous conduit 100 may include a metallic material such as copper, steel, aluminum or other rigid material. The continuous conduit 100 has a cross sectional area less than a cross sectional area of the first tube 10 and the third tube 30 for enabling the continuous conduit 100 to be inserted within the first tube 10 and the third tube 30.

Preferably, the diameter of the first aperture 80, second aperture 82, third aperture 84 and fourth aperture 86 are slightly larger than the outside diameter of the continuous conduit 100 such that the continuous conduit 100 may easily traverse into the respective tubes. The continuous conduit 100 enters the second flowing fluid input bore 222 and the first aperture 80 to extend inside the first tube 10 for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid 4 and the second flowing fluid 6. The continuous conduit 100 exits from the second aperture 82 of the primary angled coupler 62 to extend outside the second tube 20. The continuous conduit 100 enters the third aperture 84 of the secondary angled coupler 64 to extend inside the third tube 30 for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid 4 and the second flowing fluid 6. The continuous conduit 100 exits the fourth aperture 86 to extend outside the third tube 30 and exit the closed reservoir through the second flowing fluid output bore 224.

The input angled coupler 60 and the output angled coupler 66 may include a ninety degree coupler 69 constructed from polyethene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), polybutylene, polyethylene, polyvinylidine Difluoride (PVDF), rubber, neoprene, sheet plastic, metal, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or other rigid material. An adhesive may be utilized to secure the input angled coupler 60 to the input end 12 of the first tube 10 and to secure the output angled coupler 66 to the output end 34 of the third tube 30. The adhesive may include a solvent cement such as acrylic adhesive, polyurethane adhesive or other adhesive suited to the tubing and coupling construction.

A sealant 226 seals the continuous tube 219 to the first flowing fluid input bore 218 and the first flowing fluid output bore 220 for preventing leaching of the first flowing fluid 4 from the closed reservoir 210. The sealant 226 also seals the continuous conduit 100 to the second flowing fluid input bore 222 and the second flowing fluid output bore 224 for preventing leaching of the first flowing fluid 4 from the closed reservoir 210. Since the diameter of the apertures 80-90 are slightly larger than the outside diameter of the continuous conduit 100, the first flowing fluid 4 that is propelled through angled couplers 60-68 will leach from between the apertures 80-90 and outer wall of the continuous conduit 100. The leaching of the first flowing fluid 4 from the apertures 80-90 will fill the closed reservoir 210.

The continuous tube 219 links the first pump 130 to the input orifice 16 of the first tube 10 for propelling the first flowing fluid 4 from the input end 12 of the first tube 10 through the first continuous fluid path 70 and the second continuous fluid path 72 to the output end 34 of the third tube 30. A compressor 162 is linked to the continuous conduit 100 for propelling the second flowing fluid 6 through the continuous conduit 100.

The heat exchanger 2 as shown in FIGS. 1-14 illustrates utilizing the present invention in either a chilled-water split-system to provide air conditioning to a structure or a heat pump split-system to provide heating to a structure. However, the heat exchanger 2 may be utilized for other proposes where thermal energy is needed to transfer between a first flowing fluid 4 and a second flowing fluid 6.

In FIGS. 1-8 and 14 illustrate the first embodiment of the heat exchanger 2 for transferring energy between a first flowing fluid 4 and a second flowing fluid 6. The first flowing fluid 4 may include water 8, brine liquid or other solution. The second flowing fluid may include a refrigerant 9. The open reservoir 120 contains the water 8 or brine liquid wherein the heat exchanger 2 is submerged. Since the heat exchanger 2 is submerged within the water 8 to be cooled or heated, the heat exchanger 2 is not required to be insulated and the requirement for preventing leaching of the water 8 from the first 70, second 72, third 74 and fourth continuous fluid paths is not needed. In addition, the heat exchanger 2 is permitted to expand and contract within the open reservoir 120 upon exposure to various temperatures without damage.

The first 10, second 20 and third 30 tubes and the continuous conduit 100 are positioned within the open reservoir 120. A first water pump 132 is linked to the input orifice 16 of the first tube 10 for propelling the water 8 from the input end 12 of the first tube 10 through the first continuous fluid path 70 and the second continuous fluid path 72 to the output end 34 of the third tube 30. The first water pump 132 may include a submersible utility pump or other liquid pumps.

The heat exchanger 2 utilized in a chilled-water split-system for providing air conditioning to a structure includes a refrigerate system 160 and a chilled water system 180. The refrigerate system 160 comprises a compressor 162, a first plurality of coils 163, an expansion valve 168 and a low pressure switch 172 all linked within the continuous conduit 100. The compressor 162 compresses the refrigerant 9 gas which increases the refrigerant's pressure and temperature. A compressor fan 166 is positioned adjacent to the first plurality of coils 163 to force air over the first plurality of coils 163. The first plurality of coils 163 and compressor fan 166 permit the refrigerant 9 to dissipate the heat to cool the refrigerant 9. As the refrigerant 9 flows through the expansion valve 168, the liquid refrigerant is moved from a high-pressure zone to a low-pressure zone to permit the refrigerant 9 to expand and evaporate making the refrigerant cold. The gas refrigerant 9 flows through the continuous conduit 100 of the heat exchanger 2 to absorb heat.

The first water pump 132 propels water 8 from the input end 12 of the first tube 10 through the first 70, second 72, third 74 and fourth 76 continuous fluid path of the heat exchanger 2. The gas refrigerant 9 absorbs heat from the water 8 which cools the water 8 temperature along the length of the heat exchanger 2. The refrigerant which has absorbed heat may then be further heated by inserting the continuous conduit 100 after exiting the fourth aperture 86 into the fifth aperture 88 of the initial angled coupler 67 to extend the continuous conduit 100 inside the fifth tube 50. By inserting the continuous conduit 100 within the fifth tube 50, the heated refrigerant 9 is further heated by exposing the heated refrigerant 9 to additional water 8 along the length of the fifth tube 50. This additional exposure is referred to as superheating of the refrigerant before the refrigerant 9 is returned to the compressor 162. The output orifice 36 of the third tube 30 may be positioned at the bottom of the open reservoir 120 and the inlet end 134 of the first water pump 132 may be positioned at the top of the open reservoir 120 to take advance of the thermocline between the top water temperature and the bottom water temperature. A first thermometer 202 may be secured at the top of the open reservoir 120 for measuring the temperature of the water 8 at the top of the open reservoir 120. In addition, a second thermometer 204 may be secured at the bottom of the open reservoir 120 for measuring the temperature of the water 8 at the bottom of the open reservoir 120.

Preferably, the refrigerate system 160 is operated during off peak electrical consumption rates such that the water 8 may be chilled for a reduced electric rate. Once the water 8 in the open reservoir 120 has been chilled, the chilled water 8 may be utilized in the chilled water system 180 to provide air conditioning to a structure during peak electrical consumption rates. In most cases the refrigerate system 160 is utilized during the night time hours and the chilled water system 180 is utilized during the day time hours. By operating the refrigerate system 160 during off peak electrical consumption rates and operating the chilled water system 180 during peak electrical consumption rates, the overall cost of cooling the structure is reduced.

The chilled water system 180 includes a second water pump 142, a second plurality of coils 182, a continuous pipe 186 and a chilled water fan 184. A second water pump union 148 may be positioned within the continuous pipe 186 to facilitate removal of the second water pump 142 if maintenance or replacement is required. A cutoff valve 190 and a check valve 192 may also be positioned within the continuous pipe 186 to prevent drainage of the first flowing fluid 4 above the cutoff valve 190 and the check valve 192 if the second water pump union 148 was utilized to remove the second water pump 142. The continuous pipe 186 has an inlet end 194 and an outlet end 196 both positioned within the open reservoir 120. The second plurality of coils 182 are in line with the continuous pipe 186. The second water pump 142 is linked to the inlet end 194 of the continuous pipe 186 for propelling the chilled water 8 through the continuous pipe 186 and through a second plurality of coils 182. The chilled water fan 184 is positioned adjacent to the second plurality of coils 182 to force air over the second plurality of coils 182. As the chilled water fan 184 forces air over the second plurality of coils 182, the heat from the structure is absorbed into the water 8 which cools the structure. The heated water 8 is then returned to the open reservoir 120.

The second water pump 142 may include a submersible utility pump or other liquid pumps. The second water pump 142 is preferably positioned on the bottom of the open reservoir 120 for propelling the water 8 from an inlet end 144 of the continuous pipe 186 to an outlet end 146 of the continuous pipe 186. Preferably, the chilled water system 180 is operated during peak electrical consumption rates such that the chilled water 8 may be utilized to cool the structure in alternative to consuming electrical current during peak rate periods. The first embodiment of the invention could also be utilized as a heat pump split-system to provide heating to a structure by reversing the process of the chilled-water split-system.

In FIGS. 1-5 and 8 the heat exchanger 2 is shown with the first and second continuous fluid paths 70 and 72 having a length of ten (10) feet. The first and second water pumps 140 and 142 have a flow rate of ten (10) gallons per minute. The open reservoir 120 may be characterized as a storage tank for housing the water 8, brine liquid or other solution. The storage tank as shown has a volume of fifteen hundred (1,500) gallons. The refrigerate system 160 as shown includes a two and one half (2½) ton compressor unit. The chilled water system 180 as shown includes a fractional horsepower motor. The above design parameters are sufficient to cool a structure having eighteen hundred (1,800) square feet. It should be understood that the any one or more of the above design parameters may be altered to utilize the first embodiment of the heat exchanger 2.

Similarly to the function and use of the first embodiment of the invention with the open reservoir 120, the second embodiment of the invention may also be utilized in either a chilled-water split-system to provide air conditioning to a structure or a heat pump split-system to provide heating to a structure. The first flowing fluid 4 may include water 8, brine liquid or other solution. The second flowing fluid may include a refrigerant 9. The closed reservoir 210 contains the first flowing fluid. The closed reservoir 210 contains the water 8 or brine liquid wherein the heat exchanger 2 is utilized within the closed reservoir 210. Since the heat exchanger 2 is utilized within the water 8 to be cooled or heated, the heat exchanger 2 is not required to be insulated and the requirement for preventing leaching of the water 8 from the first 70, second 72, third 74 and fourth continuous fluid paths is not needed. In addition, the heat exchanger 2 is permitted to expand and contract within the closed reservoir 210 upon exposure to various temperatures without damage.

The first 10, second 20 and third 30 tubes and the continuous conduit 100 are positioned within the closed reservoir 210. A first water pump 132 is linked to the input orifice 16 of the first tube 10 for propelling the water 8 from the input end 12 of the first tube 10 through the first continuous fluid path 70 and the second continuous fluid path 72 to the output end 34 of the third tube 30. The first water pump 132 may include a submersible utility pump or other liquid pumps. A compressor 162 is linked to the continuous conduit 100 for propelling the refrigerant 10 through the continuous conduit 100 and through a first plurality of coils 163.

FIG. 14 illustrates a condenser/pump electrical circuit 240 for controlling the refrigerate system 160 and a fan coil/pump circuit 250 for controlling the chilled water system 180.

The present disclosure includes that contained in the appended claims as well as that of the foregoing description. Although this invention has been described in its preferred form with a certain degree of particularity, it is understood that the present disclosure of the preferred form has been made only by way of example and that numerous changes in the details of construction and the combination and arrangement of parts may be resorted to without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A heat exchanger for transferring energy between a first flowing fluid and a second flowing fluid, comprising:

a first tube having an input end and an output end;
a second tube having an input end and an output end;
a primary angled coupler joining said output end of said first tube to said input end of said second tube for creating a first continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a third tube having an input end and an output end;
a secondary angled coupler joining said output end of said second tube to said input end of said third tube for creating a second continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
an input orifice located at said input end of said first tube for inputting the first flowing fluid into said first tube;
an output orifice located at said output end of said third tube for outputting the first flowing fluid from said third tube;
a first aperture positioned relative to said input end of said first tube;
a second aperture positioned in said primary angled coupler;
a third aperture positioned in said secondary angled coupler;
a fourth aperture positioned relative to said output end of said third tube;
a continuous conduit for conveying the second flowing fluid between a conduit input and a conduit output;
said continuous conduit having a cross sectional area less than a cross sectional area of said first tube and said third tube for enabling said continuous conduit to be inserted within said first tube and said third tube;
said continuous conduit entering said first aperture to extend inside said first tube for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid and the second flowing fluid;
said continuous conduit exiting from said second aperture of said primary angled coupler to extend outside said second tube;
said continuous conduit entering said third aperture of said secondary angled coupler to extend inside said third tube for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid and the second flowing fluid; and
said continuous conduit exiting said fourth aperture to extend outside said third tube.

2. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 1, wherein said first tube, said second tube and said third tube include a polymeric material.

3. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 1, wherein said continuous conduit includes a metallic material.

4. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 1, wherein said primary angled coupler and said secondary angled coupler include a ninety degree coupler.

5. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 1, wherein said primary angled coupler and said secondary angled coupler include a ninety degree coupler; and

said ninety degree coupler including a polymeric material.

6. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 1, wherein an input angled coupler secured on said input end of said first tube;

an output angled coupler secured on said output end of said third tube;
said first aperture positioned in said input angled coupler; and
said fourth aperture positioned in said output angled coupler.

7. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 1, wherein said primary angled coupler and said secondary angled coupler includes a ninety degree coupler;

an input angled coupler secured on said input end of said first tube;
an output angled coupler secured on said output end of said third tube;
said first aperture positioned in said input angled coupler;
said fourth aperture positioned in said output angled coupler;
said input angled coupler and said output angled coupler include a ninety degree coupler; and
said ninety degree coupler including a polymeric material.

8. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 1, further including a fourth tube having an input end and an output end;

an input angled coupler joining said output end of said fourth tube to said input end of said first tube for creating a third continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a fifth tube having an input end and an output end;
an initial angled coupler joining said output end of said fifth tube to said input end of said fourth tube for creating a fourth continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a subsequent angled coupler secured on said input end of said fifth tube;
a fifth aperture positioned in said initial angled coupler;
a sixth aperture positioned in said subsequent angled coupler;
said continuous conduit after exiting said fourth aperture entering said fifth aperture of said initial angled coupler to extend inside said fifth tube for enabling heat exchange between the first and second flowing fluids; and
said continuous conduit exiting said sixth aperture to extend outside said fifth tube.

9. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 1, further including a fourth tube having an input end and an output end;

an input angled coupler joining said output end of said fourth tube to said input end of said first tube for creating a third continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a fifth tube having an input end and an output end;
an initial angled coupler joining said output end of said fifth tube to said input end of said fourth tube for creating a fourth continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a subsequent angled coupler secured on said input end of said fifth tube;
a fifth aperture positioned in said initial angled coupler;
a sixth aperture positioned in said subsequent angled coupler;
said continuous conduit after exiting said fourth aperture entering said fifth aperture of said initial angled coupler to extend inside said fifth tube for enabling heat exchange between the first and second flowing fluids;
said continuous conduit exiting said sixth aperture to extend outside said fifth tube; and the direction of flow of the first flowing fluid in said fifth tube opposite to the direction of flow of the second flowing fluid in said continuous conduit.

10. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 1, further including a fourth tube having an input end and an output end;

an input angled coupler joining said output end of said fourth tube to said input end of said first tube for creating a third continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a fifth tube having an input end and an output end;
an initial angled coupler joining said output end of said fifth tube to said input end of said fourth tube for creating a fourth continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a subsequent angled coupler secured on said input end of said fifth tube;
a fifth aperture positioned in said initial angled coupler;
a sixth aperture positioned in said subsequent angled coupler;
said continuous conduit after exiting said fourth aperture entering said fifth aperture of said initial angled coupler to extend inside said fifth tube for enabling heat exchange between the first and second flowing fluids;
said continuous conduit exiting said sixth aperture to extend outside said fifth tube;
the direction of flow of the first flowing fluid in said first tube, said second tube and said third tube matching the direction of flow of the second flowing fluid in said continuous conduit; and
the direction of flow of the first flowing fluid in said fifth tube opposite to the direction of flow of the second flowing fluid in said continuous conduit.

11. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 1, further including an open reservoir for containing the first flowing fluid;

said first, second and third tubes and said continuous conduit positioned within said open reservoir;
a first pump linked to said input orifice of said first tube for propelling the first flowing fluid from said input end of said first tube through said first continuous fluid path and said second continuous fluid path to said output end of said third tube; and
a compressor linked to said continuous conduit for propelling the second flowing fluid through said continuous conduit.

12. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 1, further including a closed reservoir for containing the first flowing fluid;

said first, second and third tubes and said continuous conduit positioned within said closed reservoir;
a first pump linked to said input orifice of said first tube for propelling the first flowing fluid from said input end of said first tube through said first continuous fluid path and said second continuous fluid path to said output end of said third tube; and
a compressor linked to said continuous conduit for propelling the second flowing fluid through said continuous conduit.

13. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 1, wherein the first flowing fluid includes water and the second flowing fluid includes a refrigerant;

an open reservoir containing the water;
said first, second and third tubes and said continuous conduit positioned within said open reservoir;
a first water pump linked to said input orifice of said first tube for propelling said water from said input end of said first tube through said first continuous fluid path and said second continuous fluid path to said output end of said third tube;
a compressor linked to said continuous conduit for propelling said refrigerant through said continuous conduit and through a first plurality of coils;
a continuous pipe having an inlet end and an outlet end positioned within said open reservoir; and
a second water pump linked to said inlet end of said continuous pipe for propelling the water through said continuous pipe and through a second plurality of coils.

14. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 1, wherein the first flowing fluid includes water and the second flowing fluid includes a refrigerant;

a closed reservoir for containing the first flowing fluid;
said first, second and third tubes and said continuous conduit positioned within said closed reservoir;
a water pump linked to said input orifice of said first tube for propelling the water from said input end of said first tube through said first continuous fluid path and said second continuous fluid path to said output end of said third tube; and
a compressor linked to said continuous conduit for propelling the refrigerant through said continuous conduit and through a first plurality of coils.

15. A heat exchanger for transferring energy between a first flowing fluid and a second flowing fluid, comprising:

a first tube having an input end and an output end;
a second tube having an input end and an output end;
a primary angled coupler joining said output end of said first tube to said input end of said second tube for creating a first continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a third tube having an input end and an output end;
a secondary angled coupler joining said output end of said second tube to said input end of said third tube for creating a second continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
an input angled coupler secured on said input end of said first tube for inputting the first flowing fluid into said first tube;
an output angled coupler secured on said output end of said third tube for outputting the first flowing fluid from said third tube;
a first aperture positioned in said input angled coupler;
a second aperture positioned in said primary angled coupler;
a third aperture positioned in said secondary angled coupler;
a fourth aperture positioned in said output angled coupler;
a continuous conduit for conveying the second flowing fluid between a conduit input and a conduit output;
said continuous conduit having a cross sectional area less than a cross sectional area of said first tube and said third tube for enabling said continuous conduit to be inserted within said first tube and said third tube;
said continuous conduit entering said first aperture to extend inside said first tube for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid and the second flowing fluid;
said continuous conduit exiting from said second aperture of said primary angled coupler to extend outside said second tube;
said continuous conduit entering said third aperture of said secondary angled coupler to extend inside said third tube for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid and the second flowing fluid; and
said continuous conduit exiting said fourth aperture to extend outside said third tube.

16. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 15, wherein said first tube, said second tube, and said third tube, said primary angled coupler, said secondary angled coupler, input angled coupler and said output angled coupler include a polymeric material.

17. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 15, wherein said continuous conduit includes a metallic material.

18. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 15, wherein said primary angled coupler, said secondary angled coupler, input angled coupler and said output angled coupler include a ninety degree coupler.

19. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 15, further including a fourth tube having an input end and an output end;

said input angled coupler joining said output end of said fourth tube to said input end of said first tube for creating a third continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a fifth tube having an input end and an output end;
an initial angled coupler joining said output end of said fifth tube to said input end of said fourth tube for creating a fourth continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a subsequent angled coupler secured on said input end of said fifth tube;
a fifth aperture positioned in said initial angled coupler;
a sixth aperture positioned in said subsequent angled coupler; and
said continuous conduit after exiting said fourth aperture entering said fifth aperture of said initial angled coupler to extend inside said fifth tube for enabling heat exchange between the first and second flowing fluids; and
said continuous conduit exiting said sixth aperture to extend outside said fifth tube.

20. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 15, further including a fourth tube having an input end and an output end;

said input angled coupler joining said output end of said fourth tube to said input end of said first tube for creating a third continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a fifth tube having an input end and an output end;
an initial angled coupler joining said output end of said fifth tube to said input end of said fourth tube for creating a fourth continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a subsequent angled coupler secured on said input end of said fifth tube;
a fifth aperture positioned in said initial angled coupler;
a sixth aperture positioned in said subsequent angled coupler;
said continuous conduit after exiting said fourth aperture entering said fifth aperture of said initial angled coupler to extend inside said fifth tube for enabling heat exchange between the first and second flowing fluids;
said continuous conduit exiting said sixth aperture to extend outside said fifth tube; and
the direction of flow of the first flowing fluid in said fifth tube opposite to the direction of flow of the second flowing fluid in said continuous conduit.

21. A heat exchanger as set forth in claim 15, further including a fourth tube having an input end and an output end;

said input angled coupler joining said output end of said fourth tube to said input end of said first tube for creating a third continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a fifth tube having an input end and an output end;
an initial angled coupler joining said output end of said fifth tube to said input end of said fourth tube for creating a fourth continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a subsequent angled coupler secured on said input end of said fifth tube;
a fifth aperture positioned in said initial angled coupler;
a sixth aperture positioned in said subsequent angled coupler; and
said continuous conduit after exiting said fourth aperture entering said fifth aperture of said initial angled coupler to extend inside said fifth tube for enabling heat exchange between the first and second flowing fluids;
said continuous conduit exiting said sixth aperture to extend outside said fifth tube;
the direction of flow of the first flowing fluid in said first tube, said second tube and said third tube matching the direction of flow of the second flowing fluid in said continuous conduit; and
the direction of flow of the first flowing fluid in said fifth tube opposite to the direction of flow of the second flowing fluid in said continuous conduit.

22. A heat exchanger for transferring energy between a first flowing fluid and a second flowing fluid, comprising:

a first tube having an input end and an output end;
a second tube having an input end and an output end;
a primary angled coupler joining said output end of said first tube to said input end of said second tube for creating a first continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a third tube having an input end and an output end;
a secondary angled coupler joining said output end of said second tube to said input end of said third tube for creating a second continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a fourth tube having an input end and an output end;
an input angled coupler joining said output end of said fourth tube to said input end of said first tube for creating a third continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
a fifth tube having an input end and an output end;
an initial angled coupler joining said output end of said fifth tube to said input end of said fourth tube for creating a fourth continuous fluid path for the first flowing fluid;
an subsequent angled coupler secured on said input end of said fifth tube for inputting the first flowing fluid into said fifth tube;
an output angled coupler secured on said output end of said third tube for outputting the first flowing fluid from said third tube;
a first aperture positioned in said input angled coupler;
a second aperture positioned in said primary angled coupler;
a third aperture positioned in said secondary angled coupler;
a fourth aperture positioned in said output angled coupler;
a fifth aperture positioned in said initial angled coupler;
a sixth aperture positioned in said subsequent angled coupler;
a continuous conduit for conveying the second flowing fluid between a conduit input and a conduit output;
said continuous conduit having a cross sectional area less than a cross sectional area of said first tube, said third tube and said fifth tube for enabling the continuous conduit to be inserted within said first tube, said third tube and said fifth tube;
said continuous conduit entering said first aperture to extend inside said first tube for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid and the second flowing fluid;
said continuous conduit exiting from said second aperture of said primary angled coupler to extend outside said second tube;
said continuous conduit entering said third aperture of said secondary angled coupler to extend inside said third tube for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid and the second flowing fluid;
said continuous conduit exiting said fourth aperture to extend outside said third tube;
said continuous conduit entering said fifth aperture of said initial angled coupler to extend inside said fifth tube for enabling heat exchange between the first flowing fluid and the second flowing fluid; and
said continuous conduit exiting said sixth aperture to extend outside said fifth tube.
Patent History
Publication number: 20080016901
Type: Application
Filed: Jul 24, 2006
Publication Date: Jan 24, 2008
Inventor: Wilson M. Leary (Tampa, FL)
Application Number: 11/492,174