Flow path conversion device

Abstract

The flow path conversion device of the present invention includes: a housing, comprising a first nozzle, a second nozzle, a plurality of inner outflow pipes, a plurality of inner inflow pipes, and a flow path connection portion, wherein the first nozzle supplies fluid flowing in from an indoor unit, the second nozzle supplies fluid to the indoor unit, the plurality of inner outflow pipes supply fluid supplied from the first nozzle to flow, the plurality of inner inflow pipes supply fluid to flow to the second nozzle, and the flow path connection portion forms a space connecting the plurality of inner outflow pipes and the first nozzle or connecting the plurality of inner inflow pipes and the second nozzle; a valve, rotatably disposed in the space, connecting one of the plurality of inner outflow pipes to the first nozzle, and connecting one of the plurality of inner inflow pipes to the second nozzle; and a motor, disposed on one side of the valve to rotate the valve, wherein the plurality of inner outflow pipes are disposed in the opposite direction to the plurality of inner inflow pipes with respect to the rotation axis of the valve.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to air conditioners, and more specifically, to an air conditioner including a flow path switching device. Background Technology

[0002] An air conditioning system is a device used to maintain the air in a specified space in an optimal state according to its purpose and intended use. An air conditioning system includes a compressor, condenser, expander, and evaporator, and can cool or heat the specified space by driving a refrigeration cycle that performs the compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation processes of a refrigerant.

[0003] Recently, environmental regulations have restricted the types and amounts of refrigerants used in air conditioning units. Furthermore, to ensure safety, such as preventing refrigerant leaks, measures have been implemented to limit the refrigerant flow path within the air conditioning unit and its placement in the indoor space.

[0004] Therefore, a technique was proposed to regulate the temperature of indoor spaces by adding a water flow path, thereby reducing the amount of refrigerant used in air conditioners and removing the refrigerant flow path into the indoor space.

[0005] The existing document JP5236009 discloses an air conditioner that can regulate the temperature of an indoor space by exchanging heat between a refrigerant and water and supplying the heat-exchanged water to a plurality of indoor units.

[0006] Here, valves can be installed to supply water that exchanges heat with the refrigerant to multiple indoor units.

[0007] JP6192706 discloses a flow path switching device for supplying water that has been cooled or heated and flows through two heat exchangers to each of a plurality of indoor units.

[0008] However, the flow path switching device disclosed in the aforementioned document is configured such that the valve disposed inside is relatively long. Furthermore, inside the valve of the flow path switching device, the nozzle for water supplied from the indoor unit and the water piping for water flowing to the heat exchanger are separated from each other. In such a structure, the flow range of the fluid flowing into the valve is increased, thus leading to an increase in the amount of fluid flowing in the fluid piping. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The technical problem to be solved

[0010] The objective of this invention is to provide a flow path switching device that minimizes the amount of fluid flowing in a water pipe by minimizing the space in which the fluid flows within the valve. That is, it prevents heat loss or release during fluid movement by minimizing the area in which the fluid flows outside the heat exchanger.

[0011] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a flow path switching device having a compact structure by compactly arranging a plurality of inner outflow pipes, a plurality of inner inflow pipes, and a plurality of nozzles that form the shape of a flow path switching device.

[0012] The subject matter of this invention is not limited to the subject matter mentioned above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand other subject matters not mentioned from the following description.

[0013] Technical solutions to the problem

[0014] The flow path switching device of the present invention is a device for supplying fluid that has exchanged heat with a heat exchanger disposed in an intermediate device to an indoor unit. By selectively supplying each fluid that has exchanged heat with a plurality of heat exchangers to the indoor unit, the temperature of the indoor space can be regulated.

[0015] The flow path switching device of this invention includes: a housing, comprising a plurality of nozzles, a plurality of internal outflow pipes connected to each of the plurality of nozzles, a plurality of internal inflow pipes, and a flow path connection portion for rotatably configured with a valve; a valve, rotatably configured inside the flow path connection portion; and a motor for rotating the valve.

[0016] To achieve the above objectives, in the flow path switching device, a plurality of the inner outflow pipes are arranged in the opposite direction to the plurality of inner inflow pipes with respect to the rotation axis of the valve, thereby allowing for a compact arrangement of the plurality of inner outflow pipes, the plurality of inner inflow pipes, and the plurality of nozzles forming the shape of a housing.

[0017] Furthermore, the first nozzle is disposed between a plurality of the inner outflow pipes, and the second nozzle is disposed between a plurality of the inner inflow pipes, thereby allowing for a compact arrangement of the plurality of inner outflow pipes, the plurality of inner inflow pipes, and the plurality of nozzles forming the shape of the housing.

[0018] The first nozzle and the second nozzle are configured to extend in opposite directions to each other, perpendicular to the rotation axis of the valve, thereby utilizing the space between the plurality of inflow pipes and the plurality of outflow pipes.

[0019] The plurality of said internal outflow pipes and the plurality of said internal inflow pipes extend in a direction perpendicular to the first nozzle and the second nozzle, and in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the valve, thereby utilizing the space between the plurality of internal inflow pipes and the plurality of internal discharge pipes.

[0020] The valve includes: a guide plate forming an inclined surface between the first nozzle and the second nozzle, and, according to the configuration of the guide plate, conveying fluid flowing from the first nozzle to one of the plurality of inner outlet pipes and conveying fluid flowing from one of the plurality of inner inlet pipes to the second nozzle, thereby minimizing the movement path of fluid within the valve by utilizing the space inside the valve.

[0021] The first nozzle extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the plurality of inner outflow pipes extend, and the second nozzle extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the plurality of inner inflow pipes extend.

[0022] The first nozzle orifice, which connects the first nozzle to the space, and the plurality of outlet holes, which connect each of the plurality of inner outlet pipes to the space, are formed in the same direction. The second nozzle orifice, which connects the second nozzle to the space, and the plurality of inlet holes, which connect each of the plurality of inner inlet pipes to the space, are formed in the same direction. This allows fluid flowing in the first nozzle to be supplied to one of the plurality of inner outlet pipes, and fluid flowing from the plurality of inner inlet pipes to be supplied to the second nozzle.

[0023] The plurality of inner inflow pipes include: a first inner inflow pipe for the flow of fluid after heat exchange with refrigerant through a first heat exchanger; and a second inner inflow pipe for the flow of fluid after heat exchange with refrigerant through a second heat exchanger. The plurality of inner outflow pipes include: a first inner outflow pipe for supplying fluid to the first heat exchanger; and a second inner outflow pipe for supplying fluid to the second heat exchanger. The first inner inflow pipe is configured in the opposite direction to the second inner outflow pipe with respect to the rotation axis of the valve, and the second inner inflow pipe is configured in the opposite direction to the first inner outflow pipe with respect to the rotation axis of the valve, thereby minimizing the space inside the valve and allowing fluid to flow through the first nozzle and the second nozzle.

[0024] The first nozzle is disposed between the first inner outlet pipe and the second inner outlet pipe, and the second nozzle is disposed between the first inner inlet pipe and the second inner inlet pipe, thereby minimizing the shape of the housing.

[0025] The first inflow pipe and the second inflow pipe are respectively formed with a first inflow hole and a second inflow hole that are spatially connected to the flow path connection portion and open in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the valve. The first outflow pipe and the second outflow pipe are respectively formed with a first outflow hole and a second outflow hole that are spatially connected to the flow path connection portion and open in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the valve.

[0026] The first inlet and the second outlet are configured to face each other, so that fluid flowing in the indoor unit can flow into or be supplied to the same heat exchanger.

[0027] The valve includes a guide plate forming an inclined surface between the first nozzle and the second nozzle. When one end of the guide plate is disposed between the first nozzle and the first inner outlet pipe, the other end of the guide plate is disposed between the second nozzle and the first inner inlet pipe. When one end of the guide plate is disposed between the second nozzle and the second inner inlet pipe, the other end of the guide plate is disposed between the first nozzle and the second inner outlet pipe. Thus, fluid selectively flows to one of a plurality of heat exchangers using the guide plate, thereby preventing simultaneous flow with a plurality of heat exchangers.

[0028] The valve includes: a valve body, forming an outer shape, and having a first chamber and a second chamber formed on its inner side; the first chamber being connected to an inner outlet pipe disposed close to the motor and a first nozzle, or connected to an inner inlet pipe disposed close to the motor and a second nozzle; the second chamber being connected to an inner outlet pipe disposed far from the motor and the first nozzle, or connected to an inner inlet pipe disposed far from the motor and the second nozzle; and a guide plate disposed on the inner side of the valve body, separating the first chamber and the second chamber, thereby supplying fluid flowing in the first nozzle to one of a plurality of inner outlet pipes, and supplying fluid flowing from the plurality of inner inlet pipes to the second nozzle.

[0029] The valve body has: a first chamber orifice for connecting the inner outlet pipe or the inner inflow pipe, which is disposed close to the motor, to the first nozzle or the second nozzle; and a second chamber orifice for connecting the inner outlet pipe or the inner inflow pipe, which is disposed far from the motor, to the first nozzle or the second nozzle, such that the first chamber and the second chamber are arranged in opposite directions to each other, thereby supplying fluid flowing in the first nozzle to one of the plurality of inner outlet pipes, and supplying fluid flowing in from the plurality of inner inflow pipes to the second nozzle.

[0030] The first chamber orifice and the second chamber orifice are formed to be the same size and open in different directions from each other.

[0031] When the first chamber orifice faces the first nozzle, the second chamber orifice faces the second nozzle, so that the first chamber and the second chamber can always be connected to nozzles different from each other.

[0032] The first chamber orifice and the second chamber orifice are formed to overlap in the portion where the first nozzle and the second nozzle are configured, thereby minimizing the shape of the valve.

[0033] The guide plate is disposed inside the valve body and connects one end of the first chamber orifice and one end of the second chamber orifice, so that the fluid selectively flows to one of the multiple heat exchangers by means of the guide plate, which can prevent the fluid from flowing simultaneously with the multiple heat exchangers.

[0034] Detailed descriptions of other embodiments are provided in the accompanying drawings.

[0035] Technical effect

[0036] The flow path switching device according to the present invention has one or more of the following effects.

[0037] First, the structure, in which the fluid flowing through the first nozzle is supplied to a plurality of inner outlet pipes via a guide plate, minimizes the range of fluid flow within the valve. Therefore, heat loss of the fluid can be prevented even when no heat exchange occurs.

[0038] Second, by minimizing the shape of the flow path switching device, space can be ensured inside the intermediate device.

[0039] The effects of this invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand other effects not mentioned from the description of the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection relationship between an intermediate device and a plurality of indoor units according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a flow path conversion device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 4 This is a top view of a valve and a motor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Side view.

[0045] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the internal structure of a flow path conversion device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 7It is a perspective view of a flow path switching device equipped with multiple flow path connections, valves, and motors.

[0047] Figures 8a to 8c This is a diagram illustrating the water flow in a flow path conversion device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8a This diagram illustrates the flow of water through the first internal outflow pipe and the first internal inflow pipe, which are connected to the first heat exchanger. Figure 8b This diagram illustrates the flow of water through the second inner outflow pipe and the second inner inflow pipe, which are connected to the second heat exchanger. Figure 8c This is a diagram showing the state of the flow path switching device with the valve closed. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The advantages and features of the present invention, as well as methods of implementing them, will become clear with reference to the following accompanying drawings and detailed description of embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but can be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided only to complete the disclosure of the invention and to fully inform those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. The invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same structural elements.

[0049] Figures 3 to 8c The terms U (up), D (down), Le (left), Ri (right), F (front), and R (back) used to describe the invention are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the invention. Figures 3 to 8c In the flow path conversion device described herein, the first direction (FR), the second direction (UD), and the third direction (Ri-Le) are mutually perpendicular directions, defined as references for illustrating the invention. Of course, different references may be applied if the direction of observation or the references are different.

[0050] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate an air conditioner including a flow path switching device, according to a plurality of embodiments thereof.

[0051] <Overall Structure>

[0052] Reference Figure 1 The air conditioner 1 of this embodiment may include: an outdoor unit 10; a plurality of indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106 connected to the outdoor unit 10 to regulate the temperature of the indoor space; and an intermediate device 20 for heat exchange between the refrigerant circulating in the outdoor unit 10 and the water circulating in the plurality of indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106.

[0053] The air conditioner 1 may include three refrigerant pipes 110, 120, and 130 connecting the outdoor unit 10 and the intermediate unit 20. That is, the outdoor unit 10 and the intermediate unit 20 may have a "three-pipe connection structure". Refrigerant can circulate between the outdoor unit 10 and the intermediate unit 20 through the three refrigerant pipes 110, 120, and 130.

[0054] The three refrigerant pipes 110, 120, and 130 may include: a high-pressure pipe 110 for high-pressure gaseous refrigerant flow; a low-pressure pipe 120 for low-pressure gaseous refrigerant flow; and a liquid pipe 130 for liquid refrigerant flow. The high-pressure pipe 110 may be connected to the discharge side of the compressor 12 located in the outdoor unit 10. The low-pressure pipe 120 may be connected to the suction side of the compressor 12. The liquid pipe 130 may be connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 14 located in the outdoor unit 10.

[0055] The air conditioner 1 may include a plurality of water pipes connecting an intermediate device 20 to each of a plurality of indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106. Each of the indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106 is connected to: a water supply pipe 150, supplying water from the intermediate device 20; and a drain pipe 152, discharging water back to the intermediate device 20. The water pipes include the water supply pipe 150 and the drain pipe 152. The number of water supply pipes 150 and the drain pipe 152 may correspond to the number of indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106.

[0056] Outdoor unit 10 may include a simultaneous cooling and heating outdoor unit. Outdoor unit 10 and intermediate device 20 may be fluidly connected by a first fluid. The first fluid may include refrigerant.

[0057] The outdoor unit 10 may include: a compressor 12 for compressing refrigerant; an outdoor heat exchanger 14 disposed inside the outdoor unit for heat exchange between outside air and refrigerant; and an outdoor unit fan 16 disposed on one side of the outdoor heat exchanger 14 to create airflow towards the outdoor heat exchanger 14. Driven by the outdoor unit fan 16, outside air flows to the outdoor heat exchanger 14, thereby achieving heat exchange between the refrigerant and the air.

[0058] Additionally, the outdoor unit 10 may also include an outdoor expansion valve 18, which expands the refrigerant discharged from or supplied to the outdoor heat exchanger 14.

[0059] The plurality of indoor units 100, 102, 104, 106 may include indoor units that simultaneously cool and heat. Each of the plurality of indoor units 100, 102, 104, 106 and an intermediate device may be fluidly connected by a second fluid. The second fluid may include water.

[0060] Each of the plurality of indoor units 100, 102, 104, 106 may include: an indoor heat exchanger (not shown) disposed inside the indoor units 100, 102, 104, 106 to exchange heat between indoor air and water; and an indoor unit fan (not shown) disposed on one side of the indoor heat exchanger (not shown) to create airflow toward the indoor heat exchanger.

[0061] <Intermediate Device>

[0062] Reference Figure 2 The intermediate device 20 includes: heat exchangers 22 and 24 for heat exchange between refrigerant and water; pumps 26 and 28 for forming water flow in water piping; a plurality of refrigerant valves disposed in refrigerant piping 110, 120, and 130 disposed inside the intermediate device 20 for regulating the flow of refrigerant; and a flow path switching device 30 disposed in water piping disposed inside the intermediate device 20 for regulating the flow of water.

[0063] The intermediate unit 20 is internally equipped with: refrigerant piping 110, 120, 130, connecting the outdoor unit 10 and heat exchangers 22, 24; and water piping, connecting multiple indoor units 100, 102, 104, 106 and heat exchangers 22, 24.

[0064] Reference Figure 2 The refrigerant piping 110, 120, and 130 may include: a high-pressure gas pipe 110 for high-pressure gaseous refrigerant flow; a low-pressure gas pipe 120 for low-pressure gaseous refrigerant flow; and a liquid pipe 130 for liquid refrigerant flow.

[0065] The high-pressure gas pipe 110 may include: a first high-pressure guide pipe 112 connected to a first heat exchanger 22; and a second high-pressure guide pipe 114 connected to a second heat exchanger 24. High-pressure branch points 116 may be formed in the high-pressure gas pipe 110, branching to the first high-pressure guide pipe 112 and the second high-pressure guide pipe 114.

[0066] The low-pressure gas pipe 120 may include: a first low-pressure guide pipe 122 connected to a first heat exchanger 22; and a second low-pressure guide pipe 124 connected to a second heat exchanger 24. The low-pressure gas pipe 120 may have low-pressure branch points 126 branching to the first low-pressure guide pipe 122 and the second low-pressure guide pipe 124.

[0067] The first low-pressure guide pipe 122 and the first high-pressure guide pipe 112 are combined into the first refrigerant pipe 128 and can be connected to the first heat exchanger 22. The second low-pressure guide pipe 124 and the second high-pressure guide pipe 114 are combined into the second refrigerant pipe 129 and can be connected to the second heat exchanger 24.

[0068] The liquid pipe 130 includes: a first liquid guide pipe 132 connected to a first heat exchanger 22; and a second liquid guide pipe 134 connected to a second heat exchanger 24. A liquid pipe branch point 136 may be formed in the liquid pipe 130, branching to the first liquid guide pipe 132 and the second liquid guide pipe 134.

[0069] Reference Figure 2 Multiple refrigerant valves can be used to switch the direction of refrigerant flow by valve operation. Additionally, multiple refrigerant valves can be used to regulate the refrigerant flow rate by valve operation.

[0070] The plurality of refrigerant valves include: high-pressure valves 142a and 142b, respectively disposed on the first high-pressure guide pipe 112 and the second high-pressure guide pipe 114, for opening and closing the first high-pressure guide pipe 112 and the second high-pressure guide pipe 114; low-pressure valves 144a and 144b, respectively disposed on the first low-pressure guide pipe 122 and the second low-pressure guide pipe 124, for opening and closing the first low-pressure guide pipe 122 and the second low-pressure guide pipe 124; and liquid line valves 146a and 146b, respectively disposed on the first liquid guide pipe 132 and the second liquid guide pipe 134, for regulating the flow rate of refrigerant flowing in refrigerant pipes 110, 120, and 130.

[0071] Reference Figure 2 The water piping may include: inflow piping 154, 156, which guide water into heat exchangers 22, 24; and outflow piping 160, 162, which guide water outflow from heat exchangers 22, 24.

[0072] The inflow pipes 154 and 156 can guide the water passing through the indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106 to the heat exchangers 22 and 24. The outflow pipes 160 and 162 can guide the water passing through the heat exchangers 22 and 24 to the indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106.

[0073] The inflow pipes 154 and 156 may include: a first inflow pipe 154 that guides water to the first heat exchanger 22; and a second inflow pipe 156 that guides water to the second heat exchanger 24. The discharge pipes 160 and 162 may include: a first discharge pipe 160 that guides water passing through the first heat exchanger 22 to indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106; and a second discharge pipe 162 that guides water passing through the second heat exchanger 24 to indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106.

[0074] A first inlet pipe 154 may extend to the water inlet of the first heat exchanger 22. A first outlet pipe 160 may extend from the water outlet of the first heat exchanger 22. Similarly, a second inlet pipe 156 may extend to the water inlet of the second heat exchanger 24. A second outlet pipe 162 may extend from the water outlet of the second heat exchanger 24.

[0075] Each of the inflow pipes 154, 156 and the outflow pipes 160, 162 can extend to the flow path switching device 30. Water flowing from the inflow pipes 154, 156 into the water inlet of the heat exchangers 22, 24 can flow through the water outlet of the heat exchangers 22, 24 to the outflow pipes 160, 162 after heat exchange with the refrigerant.

[0076] The water piping may include: a plurality of indoor inlet pipes 170a, 170b, 170c, 170d, guiding water into each of a plurality of indoor units 100, 102, 104, 106; and a plurality of indoor outlet pipes 172a, 172b, 172c, 172d, guiding water out of each of the plurality of indoor units 100, 102, 104, 106.

[0077] A plurality of indoor inflow pipes 170a, 170b, 170c, 170d and a plurality of indoor outflow pipes 172a, 172b, 172c, 172d are respectively connected to the flow path conversion device 30.

[0078] Indoor inflow pipes 170a, 170b, 170c, and 170d may include: a first indoor inflow pipe 170a, connected to the inlet of the first indoor unit 100; a second indoor inflow pipe 170b, connected to the inlet of the second indoor unit 102; a third indoor inflow pipe 170c, connected to the inlet of the third indoor unit 104; and a fourth indoor inflow pipe 170d, connected to the inlet of the fourth indoor unit 106. The first indoor inflow pipe 170a, the second indoor inflow pipe 170b, the third indoor inflow pipe, and the fourth indoor inflow pipe 170d are respectively connected to the flow path conversion device 30.

[0079] The indoor discharge pipes 172a, 172b, 172c, and 172d may include: a first indoor discharge pipe 172a, connected to the outlet of the first indoor unit 100; a second indoor discharge pipe 172b, connected to the outlet of the second indoor unit 102; a third indoor discharge pipe 172c, connected to the outlet of the third indoor unit 104; and a fourth indoor discharge pipe 172d, connected to the outlet of the fourth indoor unit 106. The first indoor discharge pipe 172a, the second indoor discharge pipe 172b, the third indoor discharge pipe, and the fourth indoor discharge pipe 172d are respectively connected to the flow path conversion device 30.

[0080] Reference Figure 2 The heat exchangers 22 and 24 can be configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant flow path and the water flow path. The heat exchangers 22 and 24 may include plate heat exchangers capable of heat exchange between water and refrigerant. The heat exchangers 22 and 24 can be configured to have the refrigerant flow path and the water flow path alternately stacked.

[0081] Heat exchangers 22 and 24 can be multiple, to simultaneously provide cooling and heating to each of the multiple indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106. (Refer to...) Figure 2 The heat exchangers 22 and 24 may include a first heat exchanger 22 and a second heat exchanger 24. The first heat exchanger 22 may be a structure that heats water by exchanging heat with a refrigerant, and the second heat exchanger 24 may be a structure that cools water by exchanging heat with a refrigerant.

[0082] However, this is only one embodiment. It can be a structure in which the first heat exchanger 22 cools the water and the second heat exchanger 24 heats the water, or a structure in which the first heat exchanger 22 and the second heat exchanger 24 alternately cool or heat the water.

[0083] The water flowing in the water pipes can selectively flow into the first heat exchanger 22 or the second heat exchanger 24 and exchange heat with the refrigerant, depending on the operating mode of the indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106.

[0084] Reference Figure 2 Pumps 26 and 28 can provide pressure to direct the water flowing into pipes 154 and 156 toward heat exchangers 22 and 24. Pumps 26 and 28 can be installed in the water pipes to set the flow direction of the second fluid.

[0085] Pumps 26 and 28 may include: a first pump 26 disposed in a first inflow pipe 154; and a second pump 28 disposed in a second inflow pipe 156.

[0086] Pumps 26 and 28 can force the flow of water. If the first pump 26 is driven, the water passing through the first heat exchanger 22 can flow to the plurality of indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106 via the flow path switching device 30. Similarly, if the second pump 28 is driven, the water passing through the second heat exchanger 24 can flow to the plurality of indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106 via the flow path switching device 30.

[0087] <Flow path conversion device>

[0088] The following is for reference Figures 2 to 8c Explanation of flow path conversion device 30.

[0089] Reference Figure 2 The flow path conversion device 30 delivers water flowing through the first heat exchanger 22 or the second heat exchanger 24 to each of the plurality of indoor units 100, 102, 104, 106, and delivers water flowing through each of the plurality of indoor units 100, 102, 104, 106 to the first heat exchanger 22 or the second heat exchanger 24.

[0090] The flow path switching device 30 is connected to the first heat exchanger 22 and the second heat exchanger 24 via inlet pipes 154 and 156 and outlet pipes 160 and 162. The flow path switching device 30 is connected to each of the plurality of indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106 via a plurality of indoor inlet pipes 170a, 170b, 170c, and 170d and a plurality of indoor outlet pipes 172a, 172b, 172c, and 172d.

[0091] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 6 The flow path conversion device 30 includes: a housing 32, including a first nozzle 34, a second nozzle 40, a plurality of inlet pipes 62 and 66, a plurality of outlet pipes 52 and 56, and a flow path connection portion 70. The first nozzle 34 supplies fluid to flow into indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106; the second nozzle 40 supplies fluid to indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106; the plurality of inlet pipes 62 and 66 supply fluid exchanged with heat exchangers 22 and 24; the plurality of outlet pipes 52 and 56 supply fluid from the first nozzle 34 to the outlet pipes 40. Fluid supplied by nozzle 34 is delivered to heat exchangers 22 and 24. The flow path connection 70 forms a space connecting a plurality of inner outflow pipes 52 and 56 and the first nozzle 34, or connecting a plurality of inner inflow pipes 62 and 66 and the second nozzle 40. A valve 80 is rotatably disposed in the space 72 of the flow path connection 70, connecting one of the pipes of the plurality of inner outflow pipes 52 and 56 and the first nozzle 34, and connecting one of the pipes of the plurality of inner inflow pipes 62 and 66 and the second nozzle 40. A motor 99 is disposed on one side of the valve 80 to rotate the valve 80.

[0092] Reference Figure 3 The housing 32 includes a plurality of internal outflow pipes 52, 56 and a plurality of internal inflow pipes 62, 66. (See reference...) Figure 6 Each of the plurality of internal outflow pipes 52, 56 is arranged perpendicular to the rotation axis 96 that rotates the valve 80. Similarly, each of the plurality of internal inflow pipes 62, 66 is arranged perpendicular to the rotation axis 96 that rotates the valve 80. The plurality of internal outflow pipes 52, 56 are arranged in the opposite direction to the plurality of internal inflow pipes 62, 66, with the rotation axis 96 that rotates the valve 80 as a reference.

[0093] Reference Figure 6 The plurality of internal outflow pipes 52, 56 include: a first internal outflow pipe 52 connected to the first heat exchanger 22; and a second internal outflow pipe 56 connected to the second heat exchanger 24. The plurality of internal inflow pipes 62, 66 include: a first internal inflow pipe 62 connected to the first heat exchanger 22; and a second internal inflow pipe 66 connected to the second heat exchanger 24.

[0094] The first inner outflow pipe 52 and the second inner outflow pipe 56 are respectively formed with a first outflow hole 54 and a second outflow hole 58 communicating with the space 72 of the flow path connection portion 70. The first outflow hole 54 and the second outflow hole 58 open in a direction perpendicular to the respective direction of the first inner outflow pipe 52 and the second inner outflow pipe 56.

[0095] The first inflow pipe 62 and the second inflow pipe 66 are respectively provided with a first inflow hole 64 and a second inflow hole 68 that communicate with the space 72 of the flow path connection portion 70. The first inflow hole 64 and the second inflow hole 68 open in a direction perpendicular to the respective direction of the first inflow pipe 62 and the second inflow pipe 66.

[0096] The first inner outlet pipe 52 is connected to the first heat exchanger 22, allowing water heated in the first heat exchanger 22 to flow through. The second inner outlet pipe 56 is connected to the second heat exchanger 24, allowing water cooled in the second heat exchanger 24 to flow through.

[0097] The first inner outflow pipe 52 and the second inner outflow pipe 56 are arranged apart from each other, and the first inner inflow pipe 62 and the second inner inflow pipe 66 are arranged apart from each other.

[0098] Reference Figure 6 The first inner outflow pipe 52 and the second inner outflow pipe 56 are configured in the opposite direction to the first inner inflow pipe 62 and the second inner inflow pipe 66, with reference to the rotation axis 96 that rotates the valve 80. On the other hand, the first inner outflow pipe 52 and the second inner outflow pipe 56 are configured perpendicular to the rotation axis 96 that rotates the valve 80, and the first inner inflow pipe 62 and the second inner inflow pipe 66 are also configured perpendicular to the rotation axis 96 that rotates the valve 80.

[0099] Reference Figure 6 The first inlet hole 64, the second inlet hole 68, the first outlet hole 54, and the second outlet hole 58 each open in a second direction (UD) perpendicular to the first direction FR. The first inlet hole 64 and the second outlet hole 58 are configured to face each other, and the second inlet hole 68 and the first outlet hole 54 are configured to face each other.

[0100] The housing 32 includes: a first nozzle 34 for receiving fluid discharged from indoor units 100, 102, 104, 106 and delivering it to a first internal outflow pipe 52 or a second internal outflow pipe 56; and a second nozzle 40 for delivering fluid supplied from the first internal inflow pipe 62 or the second internal inflow pipe 66 to indoor units 100, 102, 104, 106.

[0101] The first nozzle 34 is connected to indoor discharge pipes 172a, 172b, 172c, and 172d, thereby receiving water discharged from indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106. The first nozzle 34 is also connected to a first internal outflow pipe 52 or a second internal outflow pipe 56, thereby transporting the water discharged from indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106 to a first heat exchanger 22 or a second heat exchanger 24.

[0102] Reference Figure 6 The first nozzle 34 is disposed between the first inner outlet pipe 52 and the second inner outlet pipe 56. The first nozzle 34 extends along a second direction (UD) perpendicular to the third direction (Ri-Le) extending from the first inner outlet pipe 52 and the second inner outlet pipe 56. The first nozzle 34 extends along a second direction (UD) perpendicular to the first direction (FR) formed by the rotation axis 96 of the valve 80.

[0103] A first nozzle hole 36 is formed in the first nozzle 34, which communicates with the space 72 of the flow path connection portion 70.

[0104] The second nozzle 40 can deliver water supplied to the first internal inflow pipe 62 or the second internal inflow pipe 66 to the indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106. The second nozzle 40 is connected to the indoor inflow pipes 170a, 170b, 170c, and 170d, thereby delivering water supplied from the first heat exchanger 22 or the second heat exchanger 24 to the indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106.

[0105] The second nozzle 40 is disposed between the first internal inflow pipe 62 and the second internal inflow pipe 66. The second nozzle 40 extends along a second direction (UD) perpendicular to the third direction (Ri-Le) extending from the first internal inflow pipe 62 and the second internal inflow pipe 66. The second nozzle 40 extends along a second direction (UD) perpendicular to the first direction (FR) formed by the rotation axis 96 of the valve 80.

[0106] A second nozzle hole 42 is formed in the second nozzle 40, which communicates with the space 72 of the flow path connection portion 70.

[0107] The flow path connection 70 forms a space 72 that connects the first nozzle 34 and the first inner outflow pipe 52 or the second inner outflow pipe 56, or connects the second nozzle 40 and the first inner inflow pipe 62 or the second inner inflow pipe 66.

[0108] A space 72 is formed inside the flow path connection portion 70 for the valve 80 to be rotatably configured. Based on the space 72, a first outflow hole 54 and a second outflow hole 58 are formed on the lower side, and a first inflow hole 64 and a second inflow hole 68 are formed on the upper side.

[0109] Reference Figures 4 to 6The valve 80 includes: a valve body 82, which has an outer shape and forms a first chamber 84 and a second chamber 86 on its inner side. The first chamber 84 is connected to an inner outlet pipe 52 and a first nozzle 34 disposed adjacent to the motor 99, or to an inner inlet pipe 66 and a second nozzle 40 disposed adjacent to the motor 99. The second chamber 86 is connected to an inner outlet pipe 56 and a first nozzle 34 disposed at a distance from the motor 99, or to an inner inlet pipe 62 and a second nozzle 40 disposed at a distance from the motor 99. A guide plate 94 is disposed on the inner side of the valve body 82 and separates the first chamber 84 and the second chamber 86.

[0110] The guide plate 94 is disposed between the first nozzle 34 and the second nozzle 40, and forms an inclined surface in the direction in which the first nozzle 34 and the second nozzle 40 extend.

[0111] Reference Figure 5 The valve body 82 has a cylindrical shape and forms a first chamber 84 and a second chamber 86 inside. A guide plate 94 is disposed inside the valve body 82 to separate the first chamber 84 and the second chamber 86.

[0112] A first chamber orifice 88 is formed in the valve body 82, which connects an inner outlet pipe 52 or an inner inflow pipe 66, which is disposed adjacent to the motor 99, to a first nozzle 34 or a second nozzle 40. Depending on the configuration, the first chamber orifice 88 may connect the first nozzle orifice 36 and the first outlet orifice 54, or connect the second nozzle orifice 42 and the second inflow orifice 68. The first chamber orifice 88 is formed from a position communicating with the first inner outlet pipe 52 or the second inner inflow pipe 66, which is disposed close to the motor 99, to a position communicating with the first nozzle 34 or the second nozzle 40.

[0113] Depending on the configuration of valve 80, the first chamber 84 can be connected to the first nozzle 34 and the first internal outflow pipe 52, or it can be connected to the second nozzle 40 and the second internal inflow pipe 66.

[0114] A second chamber orifice 90 is formed in the valve body 82, which connects an inner outlet pipe 56 or an inner inflow pipe 62, which is remotely disposed from the motor 99, to a first nozzle 34 or a second nozzle 40. Depending on the configuration, the first chamber orifice 88 may connect the first nozzle orifice 36 and the second outlet orifice 58, or connect the second nozzle orifice 42 and the first inflow orifice 64. The first chamber orifice 88 is formed from a position communicating with the first inner outlet pipe 52 or the first inner inflow pipe 62, which is remotely disposed from the motor 99, to a position communicating with the first nozzle 34 or the second nozzle 40.

[0115] Depending on the configuration of valve 80, the first chamber 84 can be connected to the first nozzle 34 and the first internal outflow pipe 52 or to the second nozzle 40 and the first internal inflow pipe 62.

[0116] Reference Figure 5 The dimensions of the first chamber hole 88 and the second chamber hole 90 can be made the same. The first chamber hole 88 and the second chamber hole 90 open in different directions. Therefore, when the first chamber hole 88 faces the first nozzle hole 36, the second chamber hole 90 can face the second nozzle hole 42.

[0117] A guide plate 94 is disposed between the first chamber 84 and the second chamber 86. The guide plate 94 is also disposed between the first nozzle 34 and the second nozzle 40. The guide plate 94 is inclined to the direction of water supply to the first nozzle 34, thereby conveying water flowing from the first nozzle 34 to the first inner outlet pipe 52 or the second inner outlet pipe 56. The guide plate 94 is also inclined to the direction of water supply to the second nozzle 40, thereby conveying water flowing from the first inner inlet pipe 62 or the second inner inlet pipe 66 to the second nozzle 40.

[0118] Reference Figure 6 One end 94a of the guide plate 94 can be disposed between the first nozzle 34 and the first inner outlet pipe 52, or between the second nozzle 40 and the second inner inlet pipe 66. The other end 94b of the guide plate 94 can be disposed between the second nozzle 40 and the first inner inlet pipe 62, or between the first nozzle 34 and the second inner outlet pipe 56.

[0119] A second chamber hole 90 is formed in the valve body 82 with reference to one end 94a of the guide plate 94 along the direction in which the first nozzle 34 or the second nozzle 40 is disposed, and a first chamber hole 88 is formed with reference to the other end 94b of the guide plate 94 along the direction in which the first nozzle 34 or the second nozzle 40 is disposed.

[0120] The valve 80 also includes a rotating shaft 96 extending from the end of the valve body 82 toward the direction of the motor 99, connected to the motor 99, and causing the valve body 82 to rotate.

[0121] The motor 99 is located on one side of the valve 80 and is connected to the valve 80 via a rotating shaft 96, which allows the valve 80 to rotate.

[0122] Reference Figure 6 The flow path switching device 30 may further include a valve fixing member 98, which is fixed inside the flow path connection portion 70 of the housing 32 to accommodate a rotating valve 80. The valve fixing member 98 prevents movement of the valve 80 rotating inside the flow path connection portion 70. The valve fixing member 98 may be disposed around the rotation shaft 96 of the valve 80. The valve fixing member 98 may be disposed between the rotation shaft 96 of the valve 80 and the housing 32.

[0123] Reference Figure 7The housing 32 includes a plurality of flow path connection portions 70a, 70b, 70c, and 70d. Each of the plurality of flow path connection portions 70a, 70b, 70c, and 70d is respectively provided with: first nozzles 34a, 34b, 34c, and 34d for water flowing from indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106; and second nozzles 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d for water supplied to indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106.

[0124] Reference Figure 7 The flow path switching device 30 includes: a plurality of valves 80a, 80b, 80c, and 80d disposed inside each of the plurality of flow path connection portions 70a, 70b, 70c, and 70d; and a plurality of motors 99a, 99b, 99c, and 99d connected to each of the plurality of valves 80a, 80b, 80c, and 80d.

[0125] The plurality of flow path connection parts 70a, 70b, 70c, and 70d are respectively connected to each of the plurality of indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106.

[0126] Reference Figure 7 The plurality of flow path connection portions 70a, 70b, 70c, and 70d can be arranged apart along the direction in which the plurality of inflow pipes 62 and 66 and the plurality of outflow pipes 52 and 56 extend. The plurality of flow path connection portions 70a, 70b, 70c, and 70d are arranged apart along a third direction (Ri-Le) perpendicular to the first direction (FR).

[0127] <Operation>

[0128] The following is for reference Figures 8a to 8c This describes the flow of fluid based on the operation of the flow path switching device 30.

[0129] A plurality of valves are configured in the housing 32, each valve being connected to one of the plurality of indoor units. The plurality of indoor units can operate in cooling or heating mode depending on the state of the indoor space or the user's decision. Therefore, each valve can operate in a different direction than the others.

[0130] Reference Figure 8a Valve 80 can connect to the first nozzle 34 and the first internal outlet pipe 52, and to the second nozzle 40 and the first internal inlet pipe 62, thereby connecting an indoor unit and the first heat exchanger 22. At this time, when the first heat exchanger 22 supplies water heated by refrigerant, heated water can be supplied to the indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106.

[0131] Reference Figure 8bValve 80 can be connected to the first nozzle 34 and the second internal outlet pipe 56, and to the second nozzle 40 and the second internal inlet pipe 66, thereby connecting an indoor unit and a second heat exchanger 24. At this time, when the second heat exchanger 24 supplies water cooled by refrigerant, cooling water can be supplied to the indoor units 100, 102, 104, and 106.

[0132] Reference Figure 8c Valve 80 can close the first nozzle 34 and the second nozzle 40. When the corresponding indoor unit is not operating independently, closing the flow path connection through valve 80 can prevent water for heat exchange from flowing to indoor units that do not require heat exchange.

[0133] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and implementations without departing from the spirit of the present invention as claimed in the claims. Such modified embodiments should be understood separately from the technical concept or prospect of the present invention.

Claims

1. A flow path switching device, in, include: The housing includes a first nozzle, a second nozzle, a plurality of inner outflow pipes, a plurality of inner inflow pipes, and a flow path connection portion. The first nozzle supplies fluid to flow into the indoor unit, the second nozzle supplies fluid to the indoor unit, the plurality of inner outflow pipes supply fluid supplied from the first nozzle to flow, the plurality of inner inflow pipes supply fluid to flow to the second nozzle, and the flow path connection portion forms a space connecting the plurality of inner outflow pipes and the first nozzle or connecting the plurality of inner inflow pipes and the second nozzle. A valve, rotatably disposed in the space, connects to one of the plurality of inner outflow pipes and the first nozzle, and connects to one of the plurality of inner inflow pipes and the second nozzle; and A motor, positioned on one side of the valve, rotates the valve. The plurality of said internal outflow pipes are arranged in the opposite direction to the plurality of said internal inflow pipes with respect to the rotation axis of the valve. The first nozzle is disposed among the plurality of the inner outflow tubes. The second nozzle is disposed between the plurality of said inflow pipes. The first nozzle and the second nozzle are configured to extend in opposite directions to each other, perpendicular to the valve's axis of rotation. The plurality of said internal outflow pipes and the plurality of said internal inflow pipes extend in a direction perpendicular to the first nozzle and the second nozzle, and in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the valve. The valve includes: A guide plate forms an inclined surface between the first nozzle and the second nozzle, and, according to the configuration of the guide plate, conveys fluid flowing from the first nozzle to one of the plurality of inner outlet pipes, and conveys fluid flowing from one of the plurality of inner inlet pipes to the second nozzle.

2. The flow path conversion device according to claim 1, wherein, The first nozzle extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the plurality of inner outlet pipes extend. The second nozzle extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the plurality of the inflow pipes extend.

3. The flow path conversion device according to claim 2, wherein, The first nozzle orifice, which allows the first nozzle to communicate with the space, and the plurality of outlet orifices, which allow each of the plurality of inner outlet pipes to communicate with the space, are formed in the same direction. The second nozzle orifice, which allows the second nozzle to communicate with the space, and the plurality of inflow orifices, which allow each of the plurality of inflow pipes to communicate with the space, are formed in the same direction.

4. The flow path conversion device according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of said inflow pipes include: A first internal inflow pipe is used for the flow of fluid that has undergone heat exchange with the refrigerant through the first heat exchanger; and The second internal inflow pipe supplies the fluid that has undergone heat exchange with the refrigerant through the second heat exchanger. The plurality of said internal outflow tubes include: A first inner outlet pipe supplies fluid to the first heat exchanger; and The second inner outlet pipe supplies fluid to the second heat exchanger. The first inflow pipe is configured in the opposite direction to the second outflow pipe with respect to the rotation axis of the valve, and the second inflow pipe is configured in the opposite direction to the first outflow pipe with respect to the rotation axis of the valve.

5. The flow path conversion device according to claim 4, wherein, The first nozzle is positioned between the first inner outlet pipe and the second inner outlet pipe. The second nozzle is disposed between the first inflow pipe and the second inflow pipe.

6. The flow path conversion device according to claim 4, wherein, The first inflow pipe and the second inflow pipe are respectively formed with a first inflow hole and a second inflow hole that are spatially connected to the flow path connection portion and open in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the valve. The first inner outflow pipe and the second inner outflow pipe are respectively formed with a first outflow hole and a second outflow hole that are spatially connected to the flow path connection portion and open in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the valve.

7. The flow path conversion device according to claim 6, wherein, The first inlet and the second outlet are configured to face each other.

8. The flow path conversion device according to claim 4, wherein, The valve includes a guide plate forming an inclined surface between the first nozzle and the second nozzle. When one end of the guide plate is positioned between the first nozzle and the first inner outlet pipe, the other end of the guide plate is positioned between the second nozzle and the first inner inlet pipe. When one end of the guide plate is disposed between the second nozzle and the second inflow pipe, the other end of the guide plate is disposed between the first nozzle and the second outflow pipe.

9. The flow path conversion device according to claim 1, wherein, The valve includes: The valve body has a defined shape and an inner chamber with a first chamber and a second chamber. The first chamber is connected to an inner outlet pipe and a first nozzle arranged close to the motor, or to an inner inlet pipe and a second nozzle arranged close to the motor. The second chamber is connected to an inner outlet pipe and the first nozzle arranged far from the motor, or to an inner inlet pipe and the second nozzle arranged far from the motor. A guide plate is disposed on the inner side of the valve body, separating the first chamber and the second chamber.

10. The flow path conversion device according to claim 9, wherein, The valve body has the following components: The first chamber orifice connects the inner outflow pipe or the inner inflow pipe, which is configured close to the motor, to the first nozzle or the second nozzle. as well as The second chamber orifice connects the inner outflow pipe or the inner inflow pipe, which is disposed at a distance from the motor, to the first nozzle or the second nozzle.

11. The flow path switching device according to claim 10, wherein, The first chamber orifice and the second chamber orifice are formed to the same size and open in different directions from each other. When the first chamber orifice faces the first nozzle, the second chamber orifice faces the second nozzle.

12. The flow path conversion device according to claim 10, wherein, The first chamber orifice and the second chamber orifice are formed to overlap in the portion where the first nozzle and the second nozzle are configured.

13. The flow path conversion device according to claim 10, wherein, The guide plate is disposed on the inner side of the valve body, connecting one end of the first chamber orifice and one end of the second chamber orifice.

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