Indoor unit of air conditioner

Abstract

An indoor unit of an air conditioner is provided with: a casing constituting an outer shell; an indoor heat exchanger provided inside the casing to perform heat exchange between a refrigerant flowing inside and air; and an axial flow fan provided inside the casing to deliver the air to the front, the casing having: a suction port to suck in the air, formed at a position further to the rear than the indoor heat exchanger; a first blow-out port to blow out the air, formed at a position of the lower part of the casing further to the front than the axial flow fan; a second blow-out port to blow out the air, formed at a position of the one side part of the casing further to the front than the axial flow fan; a third blow-out port to blow out the air, formed at a position of the other side part of the casing further to the front than the axial flow fan; and a fourth blow-out port to blow out the air, formed at a position of the upper part of the casing further to the front than the axial flow fan.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the indoor unit of an air conditioner having an axial fan. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, it was known that indoor units of air conditioners housed axial fans inside the casing. In such indoor units, the axial fan's rotation axis extends along the front-rear direction of the casing, thereby blowing air forward. Patent Document 1 discloses an indoor unit with an air outlet formed on the front surface of the casing opposite the axial fan.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-243081

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses an air conditioner whose indoor unit blows air in a concentrated direction. This causes the air, after heat exchange, to concentrate in one area of ​​the room. Therefore, the indoor unit of Patent Document 1 cannot diffuse the heat-exchanged air throughout the room. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and provides an indoor unit of an air conditioner that diffuses the air after heat exchange into the room as a whole.

[0006] The indoor unit of the air conditioner of the present invention comprises: a housing constituting an outer shell; an indoor heat exchanger disposed inside the housing and exchanging heat between refrigerant flowing inside and air; and an axial fan disposed inside the housing and conveying air forward. The housing has: an air intake port formed at a position rearward of the indoor heat exchanger; a first air outlet formed at a lower position of the housing forward of the axial fan; a second air outlet formed at a side position of the housing forward of the axial fan; a third air outlet formed at another side position of the housing forward of the axial fan; and a fourth air outlet formed at an upper position of the housing forward of the axial fan.

[0007] According to the present invention, a first air outlet, a second air outlet, a third air outlet, and a fourth air outlet are respectively formed along the top, bottom, left, and right sides of the housing. Therefore, the indoor unit disperses the heat-exchanged air in all directions. Thus, the indoor unit can diffuse the heat-exchanged air throughout the entire room. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a circuit diagram of the air conditioner 1 according to embodiment 1.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a front view of the indoor unit 3 in embodiment 1.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the indoor unit 3 in embodiment 1.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the indoor unit 3 in embodiment 1.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the indoor unit 3 in Embodiment 1.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a configuration diagram showing the indoor unit 103 of Embodiment 2.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a configuration diagram of the indoor unit 103A of modified example 1 of embodiment 2.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a configuration diagram of the indoor unit 103B of a modified example 2 of embodiment 2.

[0016] Figure 9 This is a front view of the indoor unit 203 according to embodiment 3.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a configuration diagram showing the indoor unit 203 of embodiment 3.

[0018] Figure 11 This is a configuration diagram of the indoor unit 203A of modified example 1 of embodiment 3.

[0019] Figure 12 This is a configuration diagram showing the indoor unit 303 in embodiment 4.

[0020] Figure 13 This is a configuration diagram showing the indoor unit 303 in embodiment 4.

[0021] Figure 14 This is a configuration diagram showing the indoor unit 303 in embodiment 4.

[0022] Figure 15 This is a configuration diagram of the indoor unit 303A of modified example 1 of embodiment 4.

[0023] Figure 16 This is a configuration diagram of the indoor unit 303A of modified example 1 of embodiment 4.

[0024] Figure 17 This is a configuration diagram of the indoor unit 303A of modified example 1 of embodiment 4.

[0025] Figure 18 This is a configuration diagram showing the indoor unit 403 of embodiment 5.

[0026] Figure 19This is a configuration diagram of the indoor unit 403A of modified example 1 of embodiment 5. Detailed Implementation

[0027] Implementation method 1.

[0028] Hereinafter, the indoor unit 3 of the air conditioner 1 according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 This is a circuit diagram showing the air conditioner 1 according to embodiment 1. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the air conditioner 1 includes an outdoor unit 2, an indoor unit 3, and refrigerant piping 4. Additionally, in Figure 1 The example shows one indoor unit 3, but there can be more than two indoor units 3.

[0029] Outdoor unit 2 is located outside the air-conditioned space. Outdoor unit 2 includes: compressor 5, flow path switching valve 6, outdoor heat exchanger 7, outdoor fan 8, and expansion valve 9. Indoor unit 3 is located inside the air-conditioned space, such as indoors. Indoor unit 3 includes indoor heat exchanger 10 and axial fan 11. Refrigerant piping 4 connects compressor 5, flow path switching valve 6, outdoor heat exchanger 7, expansion valve 9, and indoor heat exchanger 10, and contains refrigerant flowing within it. Refrigerant piping 4 and the devices connected to it constitute a refrigerant circuit.

[0030] Compressor 5 draws in refrigerant at low temperature and low pressure, compresses it to a high temperature and high pressure state, and then discharges it. A flow path switching valve 6 switches the direction of refrigerant flow in the refrigerant circuit; for example, it is a four-way valve. An outdoor heat exchanger 7 facilitates heat exchange between the refrigerant and outdoor air; for example, it is a finned tube heat exchanger. The outdoor heat exchanger 7 functions as a condenser during cooling operation and as an evaporator during heating operation. An outdoor fan 8 supplies outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger 7. An expansion valve 9 depressurizes the refrigerant, causing it to expand; for example, it is an electronic expansion valve.

[0031] The indoor heat exchanger 10 exchanges heat between indoor air and refrigerant flowing inside the indoor heat exchanger 10. The indoor heat exchanger 10 is disposed inside the housing 12. An inlet 21 and an outlet 22 are formed in the indoor heat exchanger 10. A refrigerant pipe 4 is connected to the inlet 21 to allow refrigerant to flow into the indoor heat exchanger 10. A refrigerant pipe 4 is connected to the outlet 22 to allow refrigerant to flow out of the indoor heat exchanger 10. The indoor heat exchanger 10 functions as an evaporator during cooling operation and as a condenser during heating operation. An axial fan 11 supplies air to the indoor heat exchanger 10.

[0032] (Refrigeration operation)

[0033] Here, the operation of the air conditioner 1 will be explained. First, the cooling operation will be explained. The air conditioner 1 switches the flow path switching valve 6 to connect the discharge side of the compressor 5 to the outdoor heat exchanger 7, thereby performing cooling operation. During cooling operation, the refrigerant drawn into the compressor 5 is compressed by the compressor 5 and discharged in a high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous state. The high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor 5 flows through the flow path switching valve 6 into the outdoor heat exchanger 7, which functions as a condenser. The refrigerant flowing into the outdoor heat exchanger 7 exchanges heat with the outdoor air supplied by the outdoor fan 8, condensing and liquefying. The liquid refrigerant flows into the expansion valve 9, where it is depressurized and expanded to become a low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant. The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flows into the indoor heat exchanger 10, which functions as an evaporator. The refrigerant flowing into the indoor heat exchanger 10 exchanges heat with the indoor air supplied by the rotation of the axial fan 11, evaporating and vaporizing. At this time, the indoor air is cooled, thereby implementing indoor cooling. Subsequently, the evaporated, low-temperature, and low-pressure gaseous refrigerant is drawn into the compressor 5 through the flow path switching valve 6.

[0034] (Heating operation)

[0035] Next, the heating operation will be explained. Air conditioner 1 operates in heating mode by switching the flow path switching valve 6 to connect the discharge side of compressor 5 to indoor heat exchanger 10. During heating operation, the refrigerant drawn into compressor 5 is compressed by compressor 5 and discharged as a high-temperature, high-pressure gas. The high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from compressor 5 flows through flow path switching valve 6 into indoor heat exchanger 10, which functions as a condenser. The refrigerant flowing into indoor heat exchanger 10 exchanges heat with indoor air supplied by the rotation of axial fan 11, condensing and liquefying. At this time, the indoor air is heated, thus providing indoor heating. The liquid refrigerant flows into expansion valve 9, where it is depressurized and expanded, becoming a low-temperature, low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant. The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flows into outdoor heat exchanger 7, which functions as an evaporator. The refrigerant flowing into outdoor heat exchanger 7 exchanges heat with outdoor air supplied by outdoor fan 8, evaporating and vaporizing. Subsequently, the evaporated, low-temperature, and low-pressure gaseous refrigerant is drawn into the compressor 5 through the flow path switching valve 6.

[0036] (Structure of indoor unit 3)

[0037] Figure 2 This is a front view of the indoor unit 3 according to Embodiment 1. For ease of explanation, Figure 2 The axial fan 11, located inside the housing 12, is shown in dashed lines. Additionally, in Figure 2 The arrows shown in solid lines represent airflow. Figure 3This is a perspective view of the indoor unit 3 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 3 The arrows shown in solid lines represent airflow. Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the indoor unit 3 of Embodiment 1. For ease of explanation, Figure 4 The axial fan 11, fan housing 13, lower part and rear part of housing 12 are shown with dashed lines. Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the indoor unit 3 of Embodiment 1. Figure 5 Show Figure 2 Section AA in the diagram. That is, Figure 5 The image shows a cross-section obtained by cutting the center of the indoor unit 3 vertically. Additionally, in... Figure 5 The arrows shown in solid lines indicate airflow. Indoor unit 3 is a floor-standing indoor unit. (Example:) Figures 2-5 As shown, the indoor unit 3 has an axial fan 11, a housing 12, and a fan housing 13.

[0038] An axial fan 11 is disposed inside the housing 12 in front of the indoor heat exchanger 10, and delivers air forward. The axial fan 11 rotates, thereby creating a negative pressure inside the housing 12. At this time, indoor air is drawn into the housing 12 through the intake port 40 formed in the housing 12 (described later) and delivered to the indoor heat exchanger 10.

[0039] The housing 12 is generally rectangular and forms the outer casing of the indoor unit 3. Alternatively, the housing 12 may be in a shape other than a cuboid. The housing 12 has: a lower surface panel 31, a front surface panel 32, a first side panel 33, a second side panel 34, a rear panel 35, and a top surface panel 36. In addition, an intake port 40, a first exhaust port 42, a second exhaust port 43, a third exhaust port 44, and a fourth exhaust port 45 are formed on the housing 12.

[0040] The lower surface panel 31 is a plate-shaped component that forms the lower surface of the housing 12. The front surface panel 32 extends upward from the front end of the lower surface panel 31 and forms a plate-shaped component that forms the front surface of the housing 12.

[0041] (First side panel 33, second side panel 34)

[0042] The first side panel 33 extends upward from one side of the lower surface panel 31 and forms a plate-like component on one side of the housing 12. The second side panel 34 extends upward from the other side of the lower surface panel 31 and forms a plate-like component on the other side of the housing 12. The second side panel 34 is opposite to the first side panel 33.

[0043] The rear panel 35 extends upward from the rear end of the lower surface panel 31 and forms a plate-like component on the back of the housing 12. The upper surface panel 36 is a plate-like component that forms the upper surface of the housing 12. The upper surface panel 36 is connected to the upper part of the front surface panel 32, the first side panel 33, the second side panel 34, and the rear panel 35, respectively.

[0044] The intake port 40 is an opening formed on the rear panel 35 to draw in air into the housing 12. Alternatively, the intake port 40 can be formed outside the rear panel 35, provided it is located on the housing 12 further rear than the indoor heat exchanger 10.

[0045] The first air outlet 42 is an opening formed covering the lower part of the front surface panel 32 and the front part of the lower surface panel 31. The first air outlet 42 blows air downwards from the housing 12. Alternatively, the first air outlet 42 can be formed only on the lower part of the front surface panel 32 or only on the front part of the lower surface panel 31, provided it is located in a position in front of the axial fan 11 on the housing 12. Furthermore, the first air outlet 42 can also be divided into multiple openings.

[0046] The second air outlet 43 is an opening formed on one side of the front surface panel 32 and the front of the first side panel 33. The second air outlet 43 blows air towards one side of the housing 12. Alternatively, the second air outlet 43 can be formed only on one side of the front surface panel 32 or only on the front of the first side panel 33, provided it is located in a position forward of the housing 12 compared to the axial fan 11. Furthermore, the second air outlet 43 can also be divided into multiple openings.

[0047] The third air outlet 44 is an opening formed on the other side of the front surface panel 32 and the front of the second side panel 34. Air is blown out of the second side panel 34 to the other side of the housing 12. Alternatively, the third air outlet 44 can be formed only on the other side of the front surface panel 32 or only on the front of the second side panel 34, provided it is located in a position in front of the axial fan 11 on the housing 12. Furthermore, the third air outlet 44 can also be divided into multiple openings.

[0048] The fourth air outlet 45 is an opening formed covering the upper part of the front surface panel 32 and the front part of the upper surface panel 36. The fourth air outlet 45 blows air upwards toward the housing 12. Alternatively, the fourth air outlet 45 can be formed only on the upper part of the front surface panel 32 or only on the front part of the upper surface panel 36, provided it is located in a position forward of the housing 12 compared to the axial fan 11. Furthermore, the fourth air outlet 45 can also be divided into multiple openings.

[0049] like Figure 5As shown, the fan housing 13 is a component that houses the axial fan 11. The fan housing 13 is located at the center of the housing 12 in the front-rear direction and is connected to the lower surface panel 31 and the upper surface panel 36.

[0050] According to Embodiment 1, a first air outlet 42, a second air outlet 43, a third air outlet 44, and a fourth air outlet 45 are formed in the housing 12 at the top, bottom, left, and right sides, respectively. Therefore, the indoor unit 3 disperses the heat-exchanged air in all directions. Thus, the indoor unit 3 can diffuse the heat-exchanged air throughout the room, thereby improving comfort.

[0051] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 1, an axial fan 11 is provided in the indoor unit 3. Therefore, the indoor unit 3 consumes less power compared to the case where other types of fans such as cross-flow fans are provided.

[0052] Implementation method 2.

[0053] Figure 6 This is a configuration diagram showing the indoor unit 103 of Embodiment 2. Figure 6 It is equivalent to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a cross-section obtained by cutting the indoor unit 103 at the location of section AA. Additionally, in Figure 6 Arrows shown as solid lines in the diagram represent airflow. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the difference between this embodiment 2 and embodiment 1 is that the front surface panel 132 has a rectifier 151. In this embodiment 2, the same reference numerals are used for the parts that are the same as in embodiment 1, and the description is omitted. The description focuses on the differences from embodiment 1.

[0054] The front surface panel 132 has a flow straightener 151. The flow straightener 151 is a plate-shaped component located inside the housing 12. The flow straightener 151 is a plate-shaped component extending along the edges of the first air outlet 42, the second air outlet 43, the third air outlet 44, and the fourth air outlet 45. The flow straightener 151 is generally rectangular when viewed from the front.

[0055] The lower part of the rectifier 151 is bent in a manner that bulges towards the lower surface panel 31. Therefore, the rectifier 151 guides the air delivered forward from the axial fan 11 to the first outlet 42. One side of the rectifier 151 is bent in a manner that bulges towards the first side panel 33. Therefore, the rectifier 151 guides the air delivered forward from the axial fan 11 to the second outlet 43.

[0056] The other side of the rectifier 151 is bent in a manner that bulges towards the second side panel 34. Therefore, the rectifier 151 guides the air delivered forward from the axial fan 11 to the third outlet 44. The upper part of the rectifier 151 is bent in a manner that bulges towards the upper surface panel 36. Therefore, the rectifier 151 guides the air delivered forward from the axial fan 11 to the fourth outlet 45. Alternatively, the rectifier 151 may also be in the shape of a hemisphere or the like.

[0057] According to this embodiment 2, the front surface panel 132 has a rectifier 151. The upper, lower, one side, and the other side of the rectifier 151 are curved. Therefore, when the air delivered from the axial fan 11 toward the front surface panel 132 flows along the rectifier 151, it does not stagnate at the first outlet 42, the second outlet 43, the third outlet 44, and the fourth outlet 45, thus preventing loss of airflow speed. Therefore, the indoor unit 103 can deliver air to a distance in the indoor space. This further promotes the diffusion of air after heat exchange.

[0058] (Modification 1 of Implementation Method 2)

[0059] Figure 7 This is a configuration diagram of the indoor unit 103A of modified example 1 of embodiment 2. Figure 7 It is equivalent to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a cross-section obtained by cutting the indoor unit 103A at the location of section AA. Additionally, in Figure 7 Arrows shown as solid lines in the diagram represent airflow. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the rectifier 152 is a square pyramid shape that extends at the front and has a apex that protrudes from the rear opposite to the axial fan. The apex of the square pyramid is located on the extension line of the rotation axis of the axial fan 11. Alternatively, the apex of the rectifier 152 may not be located on the extension line of the rotation axis of the axial fan 11. Alternatively, the rectifier 152 may also be conical.

[0060] Air delivered from the axial fan 11 toward the front panel 132 flows along the rectifier 152. That is, the air delivered from the axial fan 11 does not stagnate inside the housing 12, thus preventing loss of airflow. Therefore, the indoor unit 103A is able to deliver air to a distance within the indoor space.

[0061] (Modification 2 of Implementation Method 2)

[0062] Figure 8 This is a configuration diagram of the indoor unit 103B of a modified example 2 of embodiment 2. Figure 8 It is equivalent to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the cross-section obtained by cutting the indoor unit 103B at the location of section AA. Additionally, in Figure 8 Arrows shown as solid lines in the diagram represent airflow. For example... Figure 8 As shown, two axial flow fans 11 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction. Alternatively, three or more axial flow fans 11 may be provided. The rectifier section 153 is in the shape of two square pyramids arranged side by side in the vertical direction. The apex of the upper pyramid is located on the extension line of the rotation axis of the upper axial flow fan 11. The apex of the lower pyramid is located below the extension line of the rotation axis of the lower axial flow fan 11.

[0063] The indoor unit 103B, for example, can individually adjust the speed of each axial fan 11 by means of a control device composed of a CPU, thereby enabling the air volume blown from the fourth outlet 45 to vary independently from the air volume blown from the first outlet 42.

[0064] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, Modification 2 is similar to Modification 1, in that the air delivered from each axial fan 11 toward the front surface panel 132 flows along the rectifier section 153. That is, the air delivered from each axial fan 11 does not stagnate inside the housing 12, thus preventing loss of airflow speed. Therefore, the indoor unit 103B is able to deliver air to a distance within the indoor space.

[0065] Implementation method 3.

[0066] Figure 9 This is a front view showing the indoor unit 203 according to Embodiment 3. Additionally, for ease of explanation, Figure 9 The axial fan 11 and the portion of the partition 214 located inside the housing 12 are shown in dashed lines. Figure 10 This is a configuration diagram showing the indoor unit 203 of embodiment 3. Figure 10 It is equivalent to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the cross-section obtained by cutting the indoor unit 203 at the location of section AA. Figure 10 The arrows shown as solid lines indicate the direction of refrigerant flow in refrigerant pipe 4 during refrigeration operation. Additionally, in Figure 10 The arrows shown by dashed lines indicate the direction of refrigerant flow in refrigerant pipe 4 during heating operation. For example... Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, the difference between this embodiment 3 and embodiment 2 is that the indoor unit 203 has a partition 214. In this embodiment 3, the same reference numerals are used for the parts that are the same as in embodiment 2, and the description is omitted. The description focuses on the differences from embodiment 2.

[0067] The indoor unit 203 has a partition 214. The partition 214 protrudes from approximately the center in the vertical direction toward the rear of the housing 12 at the rear of the rectifier 151. The partition 214 divides the space in front of the axial fan 11 in the vertical direction within the housing 12.

[0068] According to this embodiment 3, the indoor unit 203 has a partition 214. Therefore, the air delivered from the axial fan 11 does not interfere in the vertical direction and does not lose airflow speed. Therefore, the indoor unit 203 of the air conditioner 1 can deliver air to a distance in the indoor space.

[0069] The inlet 21 of the indoor heat exchanger 10 is positioned below the partition 214 when the indoor heat exchanger 10 functions as a condenser and the indoor unit 203 is heating. The outlet 22 of the indoor heat exchanger 10 is positioned above the partition 214 when the indoor heat exchanger 10 functions as a condenser.

[0070] During heating operation, a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows near inlet 21. Therefore, the air passing through the lower part of the indoor heat exchanger 10, where inlet 21 is formed, exchanges heat with the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant, resulting in a higher temperature. Meanwhile, a liquid refrigerant flows near outlet 22. Therefore, the air passing through the upper part of the indoor heat exchanger 10, where outlet 22 is formed, exchanges heat with the liquid refrigerant, resulting in a lower temperature. In other words, the temperature of the air passing through the lower part of the indoor heat exchanger 10 is higher than the temperature of the air passing through the upper part of the indoor heat exchanger 10.

[0071] Here, the indoor unit 203 has a partition 214, so the air passing through the upper part of the indoor heat exchanger 10 and the air passing through the lower part of the indoor heat exchanger 10 are unlikely to intersect after passing through the axial fan 11. Therefore, the air blown out from the first outlet 42 is air that has exchanged heat with the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant, and thus has a higher temperature. In addition, the air blown out from the fourth outlet 45 is air that has exchanged heat with the liquid refrigerant, and thus has a lower temperature, resulting in a smaller temperature difference with the indoor temperature.

[0072] According to Embodiment 3, the inlet 21 of the indoor heat exchanger 10 is positioned below the partition 214 when the indoor heat exchanger 10 functions as a condenser. Normally, during heating operation, the air blown out of the indoor unit is warmer and less dense than the indoor temperature, thus rising. Furthermore, the warmer air blown out from below the indoor unit expands into a wider space before rising. In Embodiment 3, heat exchange occurs with a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant, resulting in warmer air being blown out from the first outlet 42. Therefore, when the indoor heat exchanger 10 functions as a condenser, the indoor unit 203 can deliver warmer air into a wider space compared to the case where the inlet 21 is positioned above the partition 214.

[0073] Furthermore, according to this embodiment 3, the outlet 22 of the indoor heat exchanger 10 is positioned above the partition 214 when the indoor heat exchanger 10 functions as a condenser. The air blown out from the fourth outlet 45 exchanges heat with the liquid refrigerant, thus the temperature difference between the air and the indoor air is smaller. Therefore, the air blown out from the fourth outlet 45 is less likely to rise within the room. Therefore, when the indoor heat exchanger 10 functions as a condenser, the indoor unit 203 can deliver the air blown out from the fourth outlet 45 to a greater distance than when the inlet 21 is positioned above the partition 214.

[0074] Alternatively, the rectifier 151 of this embodiment 3 may also be a quadrangular pyramid shape, which extends in the front and has a apex that protrudes from the rear opposite to the axial fan 11, as in the rectifier 152 of the modified example 1 of embodiment 2.

[0075] (Modification 1 of Implementation Method 3)

[0076] Figure 11 This is a configuration diagram of the indoor unit 203A of modified example 1 of embodiment 3. Figure 11 It is equivalent to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the cross-section obtained by cutting the indoor unit 203A at the location of section AA. (See diagram below.) Figure 11 As shown, multiple axial fans 11 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction. In addition, partitions 214 are located between each axial fan 11.

[0077] According to this modified example, the air supplied from the upper axial fan 11 does not interfere with the air supplied from the lower axial fan 11, thus preventing any loss of airflow speed. Therefore, the indoor unit 203A can deliver air to a distance within the indoor space.

[0078] Alternatively, the rectifier 151 in this embodiment 3 can also be, like the rectifier 153 in the modified example 2 of embodiment 2, in the shape of two square pyramids arranged side by side in the vertical direction.

[0079] Implementation method 4.

[0080] Figure 12 This is a configuration diagram showing the indoor unit 303 in embodiment 4. Figure 12 It is equivalent to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a cross-section obtained by cutting the indoor unit 303 at the location of section AA. Additionally, in Figure 12 The solid-lined arc-shaped arrows indicate the direction of rotation of the lower windshield 316 and the upper windshield 317. (Example) Figure 12As shown, the difference between this embodiment 4 and embodiment 1 is that it has a lower windshield 316 and an upper windshield 317. In this embodiment 4, the same reference numerals are used for the parts that are the same as in embodiment 1, and the description is omitted. The description focuses on the differences from embodiment 1.

[0081] like Figure 12 As shown, the lower and upper portions of the rectifier 351 in this embodiment 4 are not bent. One side and the other side of the rectifier 351 may be bent or not. In addition, even in this embodiment 4, the lower and upper portions of the rectifier 351 may be bent.

[0082] The indoor unit 303 has a lower air deflector 316 and an upper air deflector 317. The lower air deflector 316 is a plate-shaped component that is connected to the lower part of the fan housing 13 and covers the first air outlet 42. The lower air deflector 316 is opened and closed with the lower part of the fan housing 13 as a fulcrum. When the lower air deflector 316 is open, air is blown out from the first air outlet 42. Conversely, when the lower air deflector 316 is closed, air is not blown out from the first air outlet 42.

[0083] The upper windshield 317 is a plate-shaped component connected to the upper part of the fan housing 13 and covering the fourth air outlet 45. The upper windshield 317 opens and closes with the upper part of the fan housing 13 as a fulcrum. When the upper windshield 317 is open, air is blown out from the fourth air outlet 45. Conversely, when the upper windshield 317 is closed, air is not blown out from the fourth air outlet 45. Alternatively, the indoor unit 303 may also have windshields that cover the second air outlet 43 and the third air outlet 44 respectively.

[0084] The front panel 32 has a windshield support portion 361 and a windshield support portion 362. The windshield support portion 361 protrudes toward the rear of the housing 12 and extends opposite to the lower windshield 316. The windshield support portion 361 is a component that contacts the lower windshield 316 when it is closed. The windshield support portion 362 protrudes toward the rear of the housing 12 and extends opposite to the upper windshield 317. The windshield support portion 362 is a component that contacts the upper windshield 317 when it is closed.

[0085] The fan housing 13 has a windshield support portion 371 and a windshield support portion 372. The windshield support portion 371 protrudes from the front surface of the fan housing 13 toward the front of the housing 12 and extends opposite to the lower windshield 316. The windshield support portion 371 is a component that contacts the lower windshield 316 when it is opened. The windshield support portion 372 protrudes from the front surface of the fan housing 13 toward the front of the housing 12 and extends opposite to the upper windshield 317. The windshield support portion 372 is a component that contacts the upper windshield 317 when it is opened.

[0086] Figure 13 This is a configuration diagram showing the indoor unit 303 in embodiment 4. Figure 13 It is equivalent to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a cross-section obtained by cutting the indoor unit 303 at the location of section AA. Additionally, in Figure 13 The arrows, represented by solid lines, indicate the airflow when the fan is blowing upwards. Figure 14 This is a configuration diagram showing the indoor unit 303 in embodiment 4. Figure 14 It is equivalent to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a cross-section obtained by cutting the indoor unit 303 at the location of section AA. Additionally, in Figure 14 The solid-line arrows indicate airflow during downward airflow operation. The indoor unit 303 allows the user to set either upward or downward airflow mode. When upward airflow is selected, the control device closes the lower fan deflector 316 and opens the upper fan deflector 317. Therefore, as... Figure 13 As shown, when the indoor unit 303 is in upward airflow operation, air is not blown out from the first air outlet 42. Therefore, the amount of air blown out from the second air outlet 43, the third air outlet 44, and the fourth air outlet 45 increases. When the downward airflow operation is set, the control device closes the upper air deflector 317 and opens the lower air deflector 316. Therefore, as... Figure 14 As shown, when the indoor unit 303 is operating in a downward airflow mode, it does not blow air out of the fourth air outlet 45. Therefore, the amount of air blown out from the first air outlet 42, the second air outlet 43, and the third air outlet 44 increases.

[0087] In this embodiment 4, the indoor unit 303 has a lower air deflector 316 and an upper air deflector 317. Therefore, by closing the first air outlet 42, the indoor unit 303 can operate in an upward airflow mode, increasing the airflow from the fourth air outlet 45. Conversely, by closing the fourth air outlet 45, the indoor unit 303 can operate in a downward airflow mode, increasing the airflow from the first air outlet 42. In this way, the indoor unit 303 can change the position of the delivered air according to the user's settings. Thus, heat-exchanged air can be delivered to the desired location.

[0088] Alternatively, the rectifier 151 in this embodiment 4 can also be a quadrangular pyramid shape, like the rectifier 152 in the modified example 1 of embodiment 2, which extends in the front and has a apex that protrudes from the rear opposite to the axial fan 11.

[0089] (Modification 1 of Implementation Method 4)

[0090] Figure 15 This is a configuration diagram of the indoor unit 303A of modified example 1 of embodiment 4. Figure 15 It is equivalent to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a cross-section obtained by cutting the indoor unit 303A at the location of section AA. Additionally, in Figure 15 The arc-shaped arrows, used in practice, indicate the direction of rotation of the lower windshield 316, the upper windshield 317, and the inner windshield 320. For example... Figure 15 As shown, the indoor unit 303A has a first plate 318, a second plate 319, and an internal wind deflector 320.

[0091] The first plate 318 connects the inner side surface of the first side panel 33 to the inner side surface of the second side panel 34. That is, the first plate 318 connects the opposing inner sides of the housing 12 to each other. The first plate 318 is opposite to the axial fan 11 disposed below. In addition, the first plate 318 has a windshield support portion 381 at the top. Alternatively, the first plate 318 may have a component equivalent to the rectifier portion 152 in the modified example 1 of embodiment 2.

[0092] The second plate 319 connects the inner side surface of the first side panel 33 to the inner side surface of the second side panel 34. That is, the second plate 319 connects the opposing inner sides of the housing 12 to each other. The second plate 319 is opposite to the axial fan 11 disposed above it. In addition, the second plate 319 is disposed above the first plate 318 with a gap between it and the upper part of the first plate 318. The second plate 319 has a windshield support portion 382 at its lower part. In addition, the second plate 319 may also have a component equivalent to the rectifier portion 152 of the modified example 1 of embodiment 2.

[0093] The inner windshield 320 is a plate-shaped component extending in the left-right direction of the housing 12. The rear of the inner windshield 320 is supported by the fan housing 13, and the front rotates between the upper part of the first plate 318 and the lower part of the second plate 319. When the front of the inner windshield 320 is located below the second plate 319, the amount of air blown out from the fourth outlet 45 increases. When the front of the inner windshield 320 is located above the first plate 318, the amount of air blown out from the first outlet 42 increases. Alternatively, the front of the inner windshield 320 can also be stopped when it is located between the upper part of the first plate 318 and the lower part of the second plate 319.

[0094] Windshield support 381 protrudes upward and extends opposite to the inner windshield 320. When the windshield support 381 contacts the front of the inner windshield 320, it restricts the inner windshield 320 from rotating downward. Windshield support 382 protrudes downward and extends opposite to the inner windshield 320. When the windshield support 382 contacts the front of the inner windshield 320, it restricts the inner windshield 320 from rotating upward.

[0095] Figure 16 This is a configuration diagram of the indoor unit 303A of modified example 1 of embodiment 4. Figure 16It is equivalent to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a cross-section obtained by cutting the indoor unit 303A at the location of section AA. Additionally, in Figure 16 The arrows, represented by solid lines, indicate the airflow when the fan is blowing upwards. Figure 17 This is a configuration diagram of the indoor unit 303A of modified example 1 of embodiment 4. Figure 17 It is equivalent to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a cross-section obtained by cutting the indoor unit 303A at the location of section AA. Additionally, in Figure 17 The arrows, represented by solid lines, indicate the airflow when the fan is blowing downwards. For example... Figure 16 As shown, the internal windshield 320 contacts the windshield support 381 when the indoor unit 303A is in upward airflow operation. Additionally, as... Figure 17 As shown, the internal windshield 320 contacts the windshield support 382 when the indoor unit 303A is in downward airflow operation.

[0096] As described above, the internal air deflector 320 is located on the upper side of the first plate 318 when the indoor unit 303A is operating in upward airflow mode. Therefore, when the indoor unit 303A is operating in upward airflow mode, the air supplied forward from the axial fan 11 flows upward along the internal air deflector 320 and is guided towards the fourth air outlet 45. Furthermore, the internal air deflector 320 is located on the lower side of the second plate 319 when the indoor unit 303A is operating in downward airflow mode. Therefore, when the indoor unit 303A is operating in downward airflow mode, the air supplied forward from the axial fan 11 flows downward along the internal air deflector 320 and is guided towards the first air outlet 42. In this way, the indoor unit 303A rotates the internal air deflector 320, thereby allowing more air to be blown in the set airflow direction.

[0097] Implementation method 5.

[0098] Figure 18 This is a configuration diagram showing the indoor unit 403 of embodiment 5. Figure 18 It is equivalent to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the cross-section obtained by cutting the indoor unit 403 at the location of section AA. Additionally, in Figure 18 Arrows represented by solid lines in the middle indicate airflow. For example... Figure 18 As shown, the difference between Embodiment 5 and Embodiment 2 is that the axial fan 11 is tilted upwards. In Embodiment 5, the same reference numerals are used for the parts that are the same as in Embodiment 2, and the description is omitted. The description focuses on the differences from Embodiment 2.

[0099] The axial fan 11 is tilted upward toward the fourth air outlet 45. Alternatively, the axial fan 11 may also be tilted toward the first air outlet 42, the second air outlet 43, or the third air outlet 44.

[0100] According to this embodiment 5, the axial fan 11 is tilted relative to the vertical direction. Therefore, the indoor unit 403 can increase the airflow in the direction in which the axial fan 11 is tilted. Therefore, the indoor unit 403 can deliver air to a distance in the direction in which the axial fan 11 is tilted.

[0101] Alternatively, the rectifier 151 of this embodiment 5 may also be a quadrangular pyramid shape, like the rectifier 152 of the variant 1 of embodiment 2, which extends in the front and has a apex that protrudes from the rear opposite to the axial fan 11.

[0102] (A variation of implementation method 5)

[0103] Figure 19 This is a configuration diagram of the indoor unit 403A of modified example 1 of embodiment 5. Figure 19 It is equivalent to Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a cross-section obtained by cutting the indoor unit 403A at the location of section AA. Additionally, in Figure 19 Arrows represented by solid lines in the middle indicate airflow. For example... Figure 19 As shown, multiple axial fans 11 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction. In addition, the axial fans 11 arranged at the top are tilted upwards, and the axial fans 11 arranged at the bottom are tilted downwards.

[0104] The air supplied by the axial fan 11 located above does not interfere with the air supplied by the axial fan 11 located below, and the airflow speed is not lost. Therefore, the indoor unit 403A of the air conditioner 1 can deliver air to a distance in the indoor space.

[0105] Alternatively, the rectifier 151 in this embodiment 5 can also be shaped like the rectifier 153 in the modified example 2 of embodiment 2, which is formed by two square pyramids arranged side by side in the vertical direction.

[0106] Furthermore, each axial fan 11 can be configured to rotate up and down or sideways. Additionally, the tilt angle of each axial fan 11 can be adjusted arbitrarily according to the airflow direction set by the user. In the above cases, the indoor unit 403A can also increase the airflow in the direction in which the axial fan 11 is tilted. Therefore, the indoor unit 403A can deliver air to a distance in the direction in which the axial fan 11 is tilted.

[0107] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0108] 1…Air conditioner; 2…Outdoor unit; 3…Indoor unit; 4…Refrigerant piping; 5…Compressor; 6…Flow path switching valve; 7…Outdoor heat exchanger; 8…Outdoor fan; 9…Expansion valve; 10…Indoor heat exchanger; 11…Axial fan; 12…Housing; 13…Fan housing; 21…Inlet; 22…Outlet; 31…Lower surface panel; 32…Front surface panel; 33…First side panel; 34…Second side panel; 35…Rear panel; 36…Upper surface panel; 40…Inlet; 42…First outlet; 43…Second outlet; 44…Third outlet; 45…Fourth outlet; 103…Indoor unit; 103 A…Indoor unit; 103B…Indoor unit; 132…Front surface panel; 151…Rectifier; 152…Rectifier; 153…Rectifier; 203…Indoor unit; 203A…Indoor unit; 214…Separation section; 303…Indoor unit; 303A…Indoor unit; 316…Lower windshield; 317…Upper windshield; 318…First panel; 319…Second panel; 320…Internal windshield; 351…Rectifier; 361…Windshield support; 362…Windshield support; 371…Windshield support; 372…Windshield support; 381…Windshield support; 382…Windshield support; 403…Indoor unit; 403A…Indoor unit.

Claims

1. An indoor unit of an air conditioner, characterized in that, have: The shell, which constitutes the outer shell; An indoor heat exchanger is disposed inside the housing and exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing inside and the air. as well as Multiple axial fans, arranged side-by-side vertically inside the housing, deliver air forward. The first plate connects the opposing inner surfaces of the housing to each other; The second plate connects the opposing inner surfaces of the housing to each other; Fan housing, which accommodates a plurality of the axial fans; and The internal windshield is a plate-shaped structure supported at the rear by the fan housing and extending laterally towards the housing. The housing has: The air intake is located further back than the indoor heat exchanger. The first air outlet is formed in the lower part of the housing, which is forward of the plurality of axial fans; A second air outlet is formed on the side of the housing that is forward of the plurality of axial fans; A third air outlet is formed on the other side of the housing, in front of the plurality of axial fans; as well as A fourth air outlet is formed in the upper part of the housing, forward of the plurality of axial fans. The second plate is configured to have a gap between it and the upper part of the first plate at a position above the first plate. The front part of the internal windshield rotates between the upper part of the first plate and the lower part of the second plate.

2. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also features a front surface panel, which constitutes the front surface. The front surface panel has an air rectifier located inside the housing, which guides air to the first air outlet, the second air outlet, the third air outlet, and the fourth air outlet. The rectifier is a cone shape that extends at the front and has a apex at the rear that protrudes opposite to the axial fan, the apex being located off-center from the extension of the axial fan's axis of rotation.

3. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also has a partition that protrudes from the front surface panel toward the rear of the housing, dividing the space within the housing in the vertical direction that is forward of the axial fan.

4. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 3, characterized in that, The indoor heat exchanger includes an inlet for refrigerant piping to flow into the indoor heat exchanger when the indoor heat exchanger functions as a condenser, and an outlet for refrigerant piping to flow out of the indoor heat exchanger. The inlet is formed at a position lower than the partition. The outlet is formed above the partition.

5. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, It also includes: a lower windshield covering the first air outlet and an upper windshield covering the second air outlet.

6. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The axial fan is tilted relative to the vertical direction.

7. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The axial fan rotates in the up-down direction and laterally.

Images