Outdoor unit of air conditioner

Abstract

An outdoor unit of an air conditioner includes: a heat exchange chamber; a machine chamber; a separator; a control box in the machine chamber for accommodating a printed circuit board; a heat sink for releasing heat from the printed circuit board; and a duct for discharging heat from the radiator to the heat exchange chamber. The duct includes: a duct inlet allowing air to flow therein; a duct outlet for discharging air to the heat exchange chamber; a first flow path extending in a first direction from the duct inlet along the first portion of the heat sink; and a second flow path connecting the first flow path and the duct outlet, a second portion of the heat sink extending in the first direction from the first portion being disposed in the second flow path. A width of the second flow path in the second direction is greater than a width of the first flow path in the second direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the outdoor unit of an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] An air conditioner is a device that uses a cooling cycle to regulate temperature, humidity, airflow, and distribution to conditions suitable for human activity. The main components of the cooling cycle include a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and blower fan.

[0003] Air conditioners can be divided into split-type air conditioners, where the indoor and outdoor units are separate, and window-type air conditioners, where the indoor and outdoor units are installed together in a single casing.

[0004] The outdoor unit of a split-type air conditioner includes an outdoor heat exchanger for exchanging heat with outside air, a compressor for compressing refrigerant, an expansion valve unit for reducing refrigerant pressure, and a blower fan for generating airflow. The outdoor unit also includes a housing that houses the outdoor heat exchanger, expansion valve unit, compressor, and blower fan. Furthermore, a control box is installed inside the housing, which contains printed circuit board assemblies for controlling the air conditioner. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] Embodiments of this disclosure provide an outdoor unit for an air conditioner having an improved structure for improved access to the control box.

[0007] Embodiments of this disclosure provide an outdoor unit for an air conditioner having an improved structure for enhancing the airtightness of the control box.

[0008] Embodiments of this disclosure provide an outdoor unit for an air conditioner having an improved structure for enhancing heat dissipation efficiency.

[0009] Embodiments of this disclosure provide an outdoor unit for an air conditioner, having an improved structure for increasing the efficiency of the product's internal space and miniaturizing the product.

[0010] The technical problems to be solved in this specification are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains will clearly understand from the following description other technical problems not mentioned.

[0011] Technical solution

[0012] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a housing including a heat exchange chamber and a mechanical chamber; a partition configured to separate the heat exchange chamber from the mechanical chamber and including a partition opening; a fan positioned in the heat exchange chamber; a control box positioned in the mechanical chamber and configured to house a printed circuit board; a radiator configured to dissipate heat generated in the printed circuit board to the outside of the control box and extending along a first direction; and a duct configured to dissipate heat transferred from the radiator to the heat exchange chamber. At least a portion of the radiator may be positioned inside the duct. The duct may include a duct inlet configured to introduce air into the interior of the duct, a duct outlet connected to the partition opening and configured to discharge air to the heat exchange chamber, a first flow path extending from the duct inlet along a first portion of the radiator in a first direction, and a second flow path connecting the first flow path to the duct outlet, the first portion being adjacent to the duct inlet, wherein a second portion of the radiator is positioned in the second flow path, the second portion extending from the first portion in the first direction. The width of the second flow path in a second direction different from the first direction may be greater than the width of the first flow path in the second direction.

[0013] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a heat exchange chamber in which a heat exchanger is located; a machinery chamber separated from the heat exchange chamber; a control box located in the machinery chamber and configured to house electronic components; a radiator mounted in the control box; and a conduit, wherein the conduit may include a conduit inlet connected to the machinery chamber, a conduit outlet connected to the heat exchange chamber, and a conduit flow path located between the conduit inlet and the conduit outlet and passing through the radiator. The conduit flow path may include a first flow path and a second flow path, the first flow path extending from the conduit inlet in a first direction and passing through a portion of the radiator adjacent to the conduit inlet, and the second flow path positioned relative to the first flow path in the first direction and passing through another portion of the radiator. The width of the second flow path in a second direction different from the first direction may be greater than the width of the first flow path in the second direction, and the second flow path may extend toward the conduit outlet along a third direction different from the first and second directions.

[0014] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a housing including a heat exchange chamber and a machine chamber; a partition separating the heat exchange chamber and the machine chamber; a fan positioned in the heat exchange chamber; a control box positioned in the machine chamber and configured to house a printed circuit board; a plurality of heat transfer plates extending from a side adjacent to the printed circuit board in a first direction and arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a second direction different from the first direction; and a duct positioned in the machine chamber and connected to the heat exchange chamber via the partition. The duct may include a duct inlet, a duct outlet, and a duct flow path, wherein air is configured to flow into the interior of the duct through the duct inlet, the duct outlet is connected to the partition and configured to discharge air to the heat exchange chamber, and the duct flow path passes through the plurality of heat transfer plates between the duct inlet and the duct outlet. The duct flow path may include a first flow path and a second flow path, the first flow path extending upward from the duct inlet along a portion of the plurality of heat transfer plates adjacent to the duct inlet in a third direction different from the first and second directions, and the second flow path extending along the second direction such that air from the plurality of heat transfer plates is configured to flow toward the duct outlet. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0016] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an example air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0017] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing an example outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0018] Figure 3 It is an exploded perspective view of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various implementation methods;

[0019] Figure 4 This is an enlarged perspective view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0020] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0021] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example partition of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner as viewed from one direction according to various embodiments;

[0022] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing an example control box and ductwork of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0023] Figure 8This is an exploded perspective view showing the first control box and ductwork of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0024] Figure 9 This is an enlarged view of the radiator of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0025] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0026] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0027] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0028] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional perspective view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0029] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0030] Figure 15 This is a partial perspective view showing various components of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments, including a control box, pipes, and partitions.

[0031] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating examples of printed circuit boards housed in the control box of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner in various embodiments;

[0032] Figure 17 This illustrates the through measurement according to various embodiments. Figure 16 A table showing the experimental results obtained based on the temperature of the electronic components; and

[0033] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The various embodiments of this disclosure and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein to a particular embodiment, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives to the corresponding embodiments.

[0035] Similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related parts in conjunction with the description in the accompanying drawings.

[0036] Unless otherwise explicitly stated in the relevant context, the singular form of the noun corresponding to an item may include one or more items.

[0037] In this disclosure, phrases such as “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “at least one of A, B or C” can include any one or all possible combinations of the items listed together in the corresponding phrases.

[0038] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items.

[0039] Terms such as “first,” “second,” or “number one” or “number two” can be used simply to distinguish one component from others without limiting the component in other ways (e.g., importance or order).

[0040] With or without the terms “functionally” or “communically”, one (e.g., first) component is referred to as “connected” or “linked” to another (e.g., second) component. When referred to, either of the components may be connected to the other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or via a third component.

[0041] It should be understood that when the terms “comprising,” “including,” “including…” and / or “containing…” are used in this disclosure, they specify the presence of the stated features, numbers, steps, operations, components, elements or combinations thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, elements or combinations thereof.

[0042] It should be understood that when a component is described as being "connected to," "attached to," "supported by," or "in contact with" another component, it can be directly or indirectly connected to, directly or indirectly attached to, directly or indirectly supported by, or directly or indirectly in contact with the other component. When a component is indirectly connected to, indirectly attached to, indirectly supported by, or indirectly in contact with another component, it can be connected to, attached to, supported by, or in contact with the other component through a third component.

[0043] It will also be understood that when a component is referred to as being "on" or "above" another component, it can be directly on the other component or there may be an intermediate component.

[0044] An air conditioner according to various embodiments may include a device for performing at least one of the following functions in a space to be air-conditioned (hereinafter referred to as "indoor"): air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling, heating, etc.

[0045] According to one embodiment, an air conditioner may include a heat pump for performing a cooling or heating function. The heat pump may include a freezing cycle in which refrigerant circulates along a compressor, a first heat exchanger, an expander, and a second heat exchanger. Components of the heat pump may be housed in a single housing forming the appearance of the air conditioner, and window air conditioners or portable air conditioners may correspond to this type of air conditioner. Some components of the heat pump may be divided and housed in multiple housings forming a single air conditioner, and wall-mounted air conditioners, floor-standing air conditioners, and system air conditioners may correspond to this type of air conditioner.

[0046] An air conditioner comprising multiple housings may include at least one outdoor unit installed outdoors and at least one indoor unit installed indoors. For example, the air conditioner may connect the outdoor unit to the indoor unit via refrigerant lines. For example, the air conditioner may connect the outdoor unit to two or more indoor units via refrigerant lines. For example, the air conditioner may connect two or more outdoor units to two or more indoor units via multiple refrigerant lines.

[0047] The outdoor unit can be electrically connected to the indoor unit. For example, information (or commands) for controlling the air conditioner can be entered through an input interface provided in either the outdoor or indoor unit, and the outdoor and indoor units can operate simultaneously or sequentially in response to user input.

[0048] An air conditioner may include an outdoor heat exchanger provided in an outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger provided in an indoor unit, and refrigerant pipes connecting the outdoor heat exchanger to the indoor heat exchanger.

[0049] An outdoor heat exchanger can utilize the phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation) to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the outside air. For example, when the refrigerant condenses in the indoor heat exchanger, it can dissipate heat to the outside air, and when the refrigerant evaporates as it flows through the outdoor heat exchanger, it can absorb heat from the outside air.

[0050] Indoor units can be installed indoors. For example, indoor units can be categorized by their arrangement method into ceiling-mounted, freestanding, and wall-mounted indoor units. For instance, based on the air exhaust method, ceiling-mounted indoor units can be further divided into four-way, one-way, and ducted indoor units.

[0051] Indoor heat exchangers utilize the phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation) to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the indoor air. For example, when the refrigerant evaporates in the indoor unit, it absorbs heat from the indoor air and cools the indoor space by blowing the cooled indoor air through the cooled indoor heat exchanger. When the refrigerant condenses in the indoor heat exchanger, it dissipates heat to the indoor air and heats the indoor space by blowing the heated indoor air through the high-temperature indoor heat exchanger.

[0052] For example, an air conditioner can perform cooling or heating functions through the phase change process of a refrigerant circulating between an outdoor heat exchanger and an indoor heat exchanger, and for the refrigerant circulation, the air conditioner may include a compressor that compresses the refrigerant. The compressor can draw in refrigerant gas through an inlet and compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor can discharge high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas through an outlet. The compressor can be installed inside the outdoor unit.

[0053] The refrigerant can circulate through the refrigerant pipe in the order of compressor, outdoor heat exchanger, expander and indoor heat exchanger or in the order of compressor, indoor heat exchanger, expander and outdoor heat exchanger.

[0054] For example, in an air conditioner, the outdoor unit can be directly connected to the indoor unit via a refrigerant pipe. In this case, the refrigerant can circulate between the outdoor and indoor units via the refrigerant pipe.

[0055] For example, in an air conditioner, an outdoor unit can be connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes. In this case, refrigerant can flow to multiple indoor units through refrigerant pipes branching off from the outdoor unit. Refrigerant discharged from multiple indoor units can be merged and circulated back to the outdoor unit. Alternatively, multiple indoor units can be connected in parallel with the outdoor unit via separate refrigerant pipes.

[0056] Multiple indoor units can operate independently according to, for example, an operating mode set by the user. For instance, some of the indoor units can operate in cooling mode, while another group can operate in heating mode. In this case, the refrigerant can selectively enter each indoor unit, discharge, and then circulate to the outdoor unit along a circulation flow path specified by a flow path switching valve, which will be described below, under high or low pressure conditions.

[0057] For example, in an air conditioner, two or more outdoor units can be connected to two or more indoor units through multiple refrigerant pipes, and in this case, the refrigerant discharged from multiple outdoor units can merge, flow through a single refrigerant pipe, then branch at some point and enter multiple indoor units.

[0058] Depending on the drive load, which depends on the drive quantity of the multiple indoor units, multiple outdoor units may operate, or at least some of the multiple outdoor units may not operate. In this case, refrigerant may enter and circulate through the outdoor units that are selectively operated via flow path switching valves. The air conditioner may include an expander for reducing the pressure of the refrigerant entering the heat exchanger. For example, the expander may be located inside the indoor units or the outdoor units, or both.

[0059] An expander can use, for example, a throttling effect to reduce the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. An expander may include orifices that reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path. The refrigerant passing through the orifice can experience a reduction in temperature and pressure.

[0060] The expander can be implemented as an electronic expansion valve capable of adjusting the opening rate (the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path of a partially open valve to the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path of a fully open valve). The amount of refrigerant passing through the expander can be controlled based on the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve.

[0061] The air conditioner may further include a flow path switching valve positioned along the refrigerant circulation path. The flow path switching valve may include, for example, a four-way valve. The flow path switching valve can set the refrigerant circulation path according to the drive mode of the indoor unit (e.g., cooling drive or heating drive). The flow path switching valve may be connected to the compressor outlet.

[0062] Air conditioners may include an accumulator. The accumulator can be connected to the compressor inlet. Low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant evaporating from the indoor or outdoor heat exchanger can enter the accumulator.

[0063] When refrigerant, which is a mixture of refrigerant liquid and refrigerant gas, enters the receiver, the receiver can separate the refrigerant liquid from the refrigerant gas and supply the refrigerant gas, which has been separated from the refrigerant liquid, to the compressor.

[0064] An outdoor fan can be placed around the outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor fan blows outside air to the outdoor heat exchanger to promote heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outside air.

[0065] The outdoor unit of an air conditioner may include at least one sensor. For example, the sensor of the outdoor unit may include an environmental sensor. The sensor of the outdoor unit may be located anywhere inside or outside the outdoor unit. For example, the sensor of the outdoor unit may include a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the air around the outdoor unit, a humidity sensor for detecting the humidity of the air around the outdoor unit, a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit, or a refrigerant pressure sensor for detecting the refrigerant pressure of the refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

[0066] The outdoor unit of an air conditioner may include an outdoor unit communicator. The outdoor unit communicator may include various communication circuits and receives control signals from the controller of the indoor unit of the air conditioner, as described below. The outdoor unit may control the operation of the compressor, outdoor heat exchanger, expander, flow path switching valve, receiver, or outdoor fan based on the control signals received via the outdoor unit communicator. The outdoor unit may also transmit sensed values ​​detected by its sensors to the controller of the indoor unit via the outdoor unit communicator.

[0067] An air conditioner’s indoor unit may include a housing, a blower that circulates air in and out of the housing, and an indoor heat exchanger that exchanges heat with the air entering the housing.

[0068] The enclosure may include an inlet. Indoor air can flow into the enclosure through the inlet.

[0069] The indoor unit of an air conditioner may include a filter that filters out foreign objects from the air flowing into the housing through an inlet.

[0070] The housing may include an outlet. Air flowing inside the housing can be discharged to the outside of the housing through the outlet.

[0071] Within the housing of the indoor unit, an airflow guide may be provided to direct the air to be discharged through the outlet. For example, the airflow guide may include blades positioned on the outlet. For example, the airflow guide may include, but is not limited to, an auxiliary fan for regulating the exhaust airflow. However, the airflow guide may be omitted.

[0072] Inside the housing of the indoor unit, the indoor heat exchanger and blower can be positioned on the flow path that connects the inlet to the outlet.

[0073] A blower may include an indoor fan and a fan motor. For example, an indoor fan may include an axial fan, a mixed-flow fan, a cross-flow fan, and a centrifugal fan.

[0074] An indoor heat exchanger can be positioned between a blower and an outlet, or between an inlet and a blower. The indoor heat exchanger can absorb heat from air received through the inlet or transfer heat to air received through the inlet. An indoor heat exchanger may include heat exchange tubes through which refrigerant flows, and heat exchange fins in contact with the heat exchange tubes to increase the heat transfer area.

[0075] The indoor unit of an air conditioner may include a drain pan positioned below the indoor heat exchanger to collect condensate generated within the heat exchanger. The condensate contained in the drain pan can be discharged to the outside via a drain pipe. The drain pan may support the indoor heat exchanger.

[0076] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an input interface. The input interface may include any type of user input device, including buttons, switches, touch screens, and / or touchpads. The user can input setting data (e.g., desired room temperature, drive mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air cleaning, outlet selection settings, and / or airflow settings) through the input interface.

[0077] The input interface can also be connected to an external input device. For example, the input interface can be electrically connected to a wired remote control. The wired remote control can be installed in a location within the indoor space (e.g., part of a wall). The user can input setting data for the operation of the air conditioner by controlling the wired remote control. The electrical signal corresponding to the setting data obtained via the wired remote control can be sent to the input interface. Furthermore, the input interface can include an infrared sensor. The user can remotely input setting data for the operation of the air conditioner using a wireless remote control. The setting data input via the wireless remote control can be sent to the input interface as an infrared signal.

[0078] The input interface may include a microphone. User voice commands can be acquired via the microphone. The microphone can convert the user's voice commands into electrical signals and transmit the converted electrical signals to the indoor unit controller. The indoor unit controller can control the air conditioning components to perform functions corresponding to the user's voice commands. Setting data obtained through the input interface (e.g., desired room temperature, drive mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air cleaning, outlet selection settings, and / or airflow settings) can be transmitted to the indoor unit controller, as described below. According to an example, the setting data obtained through the input interface can be sent to an external device, i.e., an outdoor unit or a server, via an indoor unit communicator described below.

[0079] The indoor unit of an air conditioner may include a power module. The power module can be connected to an external power source to supply power to the components of the indoor unit.

[0080] The indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an indoor unit sensor. The indoor unit sensor may be an environmental sensor located within or outside the housing. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include one or more temperature and / or humidity sensors located within or outside the housing of the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting the refrigerant temperature through refrigerant pipes passing through the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor that detects the temperature at each inlet, intermediate section, and / or outlet of the refrigerant pipes passing through the indoor heat exchanger.

[0081] For example, environmental information detected by the indoor unit sensors can be transmitted to the indoor unit controller (described below) or sent to the outside via the indoor unit communicator (described in more detail below).

[0082] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit communicator. The indoor unit communicator may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module. The indoor unit communicator may include at least one antenna for wireless communication with another device. The outdoor unit may include an outdoor unit communicator. The outdoor unit communicator may also include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0083] Short-range wireless communication modules may include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth communication modules, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication modules, Near Field Communication (NFC) modules, Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN; WiFi) communication modules, Zigbee communication modules, Infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication modules, Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication modules, Ultra Wideband (UWB) communication modules, Ant+ communication modules, and microwave (uWave) communication modules.

[0084] The long-range wireless communication module may include communication modules that perform various long-range communications, and may include a mobile communicator. The mobile communicator may transmit wireless signals to or receive wireless signals from at least one of a base station, external terminal, or server on the mobile communication network.

[0085] The indoor unit communicator can communicate with external devices such as servers, mobile devices, and other household appliances via surrounding access points (APs). The AP can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the air conditioner or user device is connected to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The air conditioner or user device can connect to the server via the WAN. The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit controller that controls components of the indoor unit (including blowers, etc.). The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit controller that controls components of the outdoor unit (including compressors, etc.). The indoor unit controller can communicate with the outdoor unit controller via both the indoor unit communicator and the outdoor unit communicator. The outdoor unit communicator can send control signals generated by the outdoor unit controller to the indoor unit communicator, or transmit control signals sent from the indoor unit communicator to the outdoor unit controller. For example, the outdoor and indoor units can communicate bidirectionally. The outdoor and indoor units can send and receive various signals generated during the operation of the air conditioner.

[0086] The outdoor unit controller can be electrically connected to the components of the outdoor unit and control the operation of each component. For example, the outdoor unit controller can adjust the compressor frequency and control the flow path switching valve to switch the refrigerant circulation direction. The outdoor unit controller can adjust the rotation speed of the outdoor fan. The outdoor unit controller can generate control signals to adjust the opening of the expansion valve. Under the control of the outdoor unit controller, the refrigerant can circulate along the refrigerant circulation loop, which includes the compressor, flow path switching valve, outdoor heat exchanger, expansion valve, and indoor heat exchanger.

[0087] Various temperature sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can each send an electrical signal corresponding to the detected temperature to the outdoor unit controller and / or the indoor unit controller. For example, humidity sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can each send an electrical signal corresponding to the detected humidity to the outdoor unit controller and / or the indoor unit controller.

[0088] The indoor unit controller can acquire user input from user devices, including mobile devices, via an indoor unit communicator, or directly through an input interface or remote control. The indoor unit controller can control components of the indoor unit, including blowers, in response to the received user input. The indoor unit controller can also send information related to the received user input to the outdoor unit controller.

[0089] The outdoor unit controller can control components of the outdoor unit, including the compressor, based on user input received from the indoor unit. For example, based on a control signal received from the indoor unit corresponding to the user input selecting a drive mode (such as cooling drive, heating drive, air blowing drive, defrosting drive, or dehumidification drive), the outdoor unit controller can control the components of the outdoor unit to perform air conditioning operation corresponding to the selected drive mode.

[0090] Each of the outdoor unit controller and the indoor unit controller may include a processor (e.g., at least one processor including processing circuitry) and a memory. The indoor unit controller may include at least one first processor and at least one first memory, and the outdoor unit controller may include at least one second processor and at least one second memory.

[0091] The memory can remember / store various information required for the operation of the air conditioner. The memory can store instructions, applications, data, and / or programs required for the operation of the air conditioner. For example, the memory can store various programs for the cooling drive, heating drive, dehumidification drive, and / or defrosting drive of the air conditioner. The memory can include volatile memory for temporary data storage, such as static random access memory (S-RAM) and dynamic random access memory (D-RAM). Furthermore, the memory can include non-volatile memory for long-term data storage, such as read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), and electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM).

[0092] A processor can generate control signals for controlling the operation of an air conditioner based on instructions, applications, data, and / or programs stored in memory. The processor may include logic and arithmetic circuits as hardware. The processor can process data according to programs and / or instructions provided from memory and generate control signals based on the processing results. The memory and processor can be implemented as a single control circuit or multiple circuits. A processor according to embodiments of this disclosure may include various processing circuits and / or multiple processors. For example, as used herein (including the claims), the term "processor" may include various processing circuits, including at least one processor, wherein one or more of the at least one processor may be configured individually and / or collectively in a distributed manner to perform the various functions described herein. As used herein, when "processor," "at least one processor," and "one or more processors" are described as being configured to perform a number of functions, these terms cover, for example, but not limited to, cases where one processor performs some of the said functions while another(s) processor(s) performs other said functions, and cases where a single processor can perform all of the said functions. Additionally, at least one processor may include, for example, a combination of processors performing various said / disclosed functions in a distributed manner. At least one processor may execute program instructions to implement or perform various functions.

[0093] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an output interface. This output interface can be electrically connected to the indoor unit controller and, under the control of the controller, output information related to the operation of the air conditioner. For example, it can output information selected by user input, such as drive mode, airflow direction, air volume, and temperature. Furthermore, the output interface can output sensing information and warning / error messages obtained from indoor or outdoor unit sensors.

[0094] The output interface may include a display and speakers. Speakers, acting as an audio system, can output various sounds. The display can show information input by the user or information to be provided to the user as various graphic elements. For example, air conditioner operating information can be displayed as at least one of an image or text. Furthermore, the display may include indicators that provide specific information. The display may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light-emitting diode (LED) panel, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) panel, a micro-LED panel, and / or multiple LEDs.

[0095] Various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0096] In the following description, terms such as "upper," "lower," "front," and "rear" are defined based on the accompanying drawings, and the shape and position of components are not limited by these terms. For example, refer to... Figure 2In the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the direction in which each of the outlet grille 180 and the front cover 190 faces can be defined as the forward direction (+X direction), and the opposite direction of the forward direction can be defined as the rearward direction (-X direction). Furthermore, in the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1, the vertical direction in which the top cover 171 faces can be defined as the upward direction (+Z direction), and the opposite direction of the upward direction can be defined as the downward direction (-Z direction). Additionally, in the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1, the direction in which the first side frame 150 is located can be defined as the left direction (-Y direction), and the opposite direction of the left direction can be defined as the right direction (+Y direction).

[0097] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an example air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0098] refer to Figure 1 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the air conditioner 1 may include an indoor unit 20 placed in an indoor space and an outdoor unit 10 placed in an outdoor space.

[0099] To cool the air-conditioned space, air conditioner 1 can absorb heat from inside the air-conditioned space and dissipate the heat to the outside of the air-conditioned space. Furthermore, to heat the air-conditioned space, air conditioner 1 can absorb heat from outside the air-conditioned space and dissipate the heat inside the air-conditioned space.

[0100] Outdoor unit 10 can exchange heat with outside air outside the air-conditioned space. Outdoor unit 10 can utilize the phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation) to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the outside air. For example, outdoor unit 10 can utilize the condensation of the refrigerant to discharge the heat of the refrigerant to the outside air. In addition, outdoor unit 10 can utilize the evaporation of the refrigerant to absorb the heat of the outside air into the refrigerant.

[0101] exist Figure 1 The image shows a single outdoor unit 10; however, the number of outdoor units 10 is not limited to this. Figure 1 The quantity shown. For example, air conditioner 1 may include multiple outdoor units.

[0102] Outdoor unit 10 may include an outdoor heat exchanger 11 for exchanging heat with outside air (see...) Figure 3 ) and compressor 12 that compresses the refrigerant gas (see Figure 3 ).

[0103] The configuration of outdoor unit 10 will be described in detail below.

[0104] The indoor unit 20 can exchange heat with the indoor air inside the air-conditioned space. The indoor unit 20 can utilize a phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation) to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the indoor air. For example, the indoor unit 20 can use the evaporation of the refrigerant to absorb heat from the indoor air into the refrigerant to cool the air-conditioned space. The indoor unit 20 can use the condensation of the refrigerant to release heat from the refrigerant into the indoor air to heat the air-conditioned space.

[0105] The indoor unit 20 may include an indoor heat exchanger that exchanges heat with indoor air, an indoor blower that draws in and blows indoor air through the indoor heat exchanger, and an expansion valve unit that reduces the pressure of the refrigerant and expands the refrigerant.

[0106] exist Figure 1 The image shows a single indoor unit 20; however, the number of indoor units 20 is not limited to this. Figure 1 The quantity shown. For example, air conditioner 1 may include multiple indoor units. Multiple different indoor units may be installed in multiple different air-conditioned spaces.

[0107] In this way, the air conditioner 1 can exchange heat between the refrigerant and the outside air outside the air-conditioned space, and also between the refrigerant and the indoor air inside the air-conditioned space.

[0108] In this configuration, to facilitate the movement of heat between the interior and exterior of the air-conditioned space, the air conditioner 1 may include a connecting pipe 30 for transferring refrigerant between the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10. The connecting pipe 30 allows the refrigerant to move between the exterior and interior of the air-conditioned space. The indoor unit 20 can be connected to the outdoor unit 10 via the connecting pipe 30 for transferring refrigerant.

[0109] The air conditioner 1 described above may be an example of an air conditioner applicable to the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to air conditioner 1. Air conditioners applicable to the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to the present disclosure, as well as components included in the air conditioner such as indoor units, connecting pipes, etc., can be various.

[0110] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 2 to 18 The outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail.

[0111] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing an example outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments. Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner in various implementations.

[0112] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1 may include an outdoor heat exchanger 11 that exchanges heat with the outside air, a compressor 12 that compresses refrigerant, an outdoor fan 13 that draws in outside air and blows outside air through the outdoor heat exchanger 11, and a housing 100 that forms the appearance of the outdoor unit 10.

[0113] The housing 100 can form the appearance of the outdoor unit 10. Various components of the outdoor unit 10, such as the outdoor heat exchanger 11, the compressor 12, the outdoor fan 13, and the control boxes 800 and 900, which will be described below, can be housed inside the housing 100.

[0114] The housing 100 may include inlets 131 and 151 and an outlet 111. Air flows into the housing 100 through inlets 131 and 151 and is discharged through outlet 111. Depending on the rotation of the outdoor fan 13, external air can flow into the housing 100 through inlets 131 and 151, and after heat exchange in the outdoor heat exchanger 11, the external air can be discharged to the outside of the housing 100 through outlet 111.

[0115] The outdoor unit 10 may include a heat exchange chamber R1 formed inside the housing 100. Outside air may flow into the heat exchange chamber R1 and may be exhausted to the outside again. In the heat exchange chamber R1, heat exchange may occur between the outdoor heat exchanger 11 and the air received from the outside. Components such as the outdoor heat exchanger 11 and the outdoor fan 13 may be positioned in the heat exchange chamber R1.

[0116] The outdoor unit 10 may include a mechanical chamber R2 formed inside the housing 100. Components such as the compressor 12, control boxes 800 and 900 (described below) may be located in the mechanical chamber R2.

[0117] Inside the housing 100, the heat exchange chamber R1 can be separated from the machine room R2. The outdoor unit 10 may include a partition 16 separating the heat exchange chamber R1 and the machine room R2. The partition 16 may be positioned between the heat exchange chamber R1 and the machine room R2. For example, the heat exchange chamber R1 and the machine room R2 may be arranged in the left-right direction (Y direction) in the figures, and the partition 16 may extend in the front-back direction (X direction) and the up-down direction (Z direction) in the figures to separate the heat exchange chamber R1 and the machine room R2.

[0118] The partition 16 can be attached to the housing 100. For example, the partition 16 can be attached to the base 172, which will be described below. For example, the partition 16 can be attached to the front frames 110 and 120, which will be described below. However, the partition 16 can be integrated into a component of the housing 100.

[0119] The structure of partition 16 will be described in more detail below.

[0120] For example, housing 100 may have a box shape.

[0121] The following section will describe an example of the structure of housing 100.

[0122] The housing 100 may include a first front frame 110. The first front frame 110 may cover the heat exchange chamber R1 in the forward direction (+X direction). An outlet 111 may be formed in the first front frame 110.

[0123] The housing 100 may include a second front frame 120. The second front frame 120 may cover the machine chamber R2 in the forward direction (+X direction). For example, the second front frame 120 may be formed in a generally flat shape.

[0124] For example, the first front frame 110 and the second front frame 120 can be aligned side by side in the left-right direction (Y direction). The first front frame 110 can be connected to the second front frame 120.

[0125] For example, multiple heat dissipation holes can be formed in the second front frame 120 to connect the machine room R1 with the outside of the outdoor unit 10 to dissipate the internal heat of the machine room R2.

[0126] The housing 100 may include a first rear frame 130. The first rear frame 130 may form part of the rear appearance of the outdoor unit 10. The first rear frame 130 may be positioned in the rearward direction (-X direction) of the heat exchange chamber R1. An inlet 131 may be formed in the first rear frame 130.

[0127] The first rear frame 130 can be opposite to the first front frame 110.

[0128] The housing 100 may include a second rear frame 140. The second rear frame 140 may form another part of the rear appearance of the outdoor unit 10. The second rear frame 140 may cover the machine room R2 in the rearward direction (-X direction) of the machine room R1.

[0129] For example, multiple heat dissipation holes can be formed in the second rear frame 140 to connect the machine room R2 with the outside of the outdoor unit 11 to dissipate the internal heat of the machine room R2.

[0130] The second rear frame 140 can be opposite to the second front frame 120.

[0131] The housing 100 may include a first side frame 150. The first side frame 150 may form the surface of the outdoor unit 10 in the left direction (-Y direction).

[0132] The first side frame 150 can cover the heat exchange chamber R1. The first side frame 150 can cover the heat exchange chamber R1 in the left direction (-Y direction). The inlet 151 can be formed in the first side frame 150.

[0133] The first side frame 150 can be connected to the first front frame 110. The first side frame 150 can be connected to the first rear frame 130.

[0134] For example, the first side frame 150 can extend in the front-rear direction (X direction).

[0135] The housing 100 may include a second side frame 160. The second side frame 160 may form the surface of the outdoor unit 10 in the right direction (+Y direction).

[0136] The second side frame 160 can cover the machine room R2. The second side frame 160 can cover the machine room R2 in the right direction (+Y direction).

[0137] For example, multiple heat dissipation holes can be formed in the second side frame 160 to connect the machine room R2 with the outside of the outdoor unit 10 to dissipate the internal heat of the machine room R2.

[0138] The second side frame 160 can be connected to the second front frame 120. The second side frame 160 can be connected to the second rear frame 140.

[0139] For example, the second side frame 160 can extend in the front-to-back direction (X direction).

[0140] The second side frame 160 can be opposite to the first side frame 150.

[0141] The housing 100 may include a base 172. The base 172 may form the lower surface of the outdoor unit 10. The base 172 may be positioned on one side of the heat exchange chamber R1 and the machine chamber R2 in the downward (-Z direction). The base 172 can support various components of the outdoor unit 10 housed within the housing 100 from below. For example, the base 172 can support components such as the outdoor heat exchanger 11, compressor 12, motor bracket 15, and partition 16 from below.

[0142] The base 172 can be connected to the lower portion of each of the first front frame 110, the second front frame 120, the second rear frame 140, the first side frame 150, and the second side frame 160.

[0143] The base 172 can be formed into a generally flat plate shape.

[0144] The housing 100 may include a top cover 171. The top cover 171 may form the upper surface of the outdoor unit 10.

[0145] The top cover 171 can cover the heat exchange chamber R1 and the mechanical chamber R2 in the upward direction (+Z direction). The top cover 171 can cover the various components of the outdoor unit 10 housed inside the housing 100 from above.

[0146] The top cover 171 can be attached to the upper portion of each of the first front frame 110, the second front frame 120, the second rear frame 140, the first side frame 150, and the second side frame 160.

[0147] The top cover 171 can be formed into a generally flat shape.

[0148] The top cover 171 can be opposite to the base 172.

[0149] The housing 100 may include an outlet grille 180. The outlet grille 180 may cover the first front frame 110 in the forward direction (+X direction). The outlet grille 180 may cover the outlet 111 in the forward direction (+X direction). The outlet grille 180 may be attached to the first front frame 110. The outlet grille 180 may form part of the front appearance of the outdoor unit 10.

[0150] The outlet grille 180 can cover the outlet 111 and has a generally grille shape through which air is discharged from the outlet 11.

[0151] The housing 100 may include a front cover 190. The front cover 190 may cover the second front frame 120 in the forward direction (+X direction). The front cover 190 may be attached to the second front frame 120. The front cover 190 may form another part of the front appearance of the outdoor unit 10.

[0152] For example, the outlet grille 180 and the front cover 190 can be aligned side-by-side in the left-right direction (Y direction). The outlet grille 180 can be attached to the front cover 190.

[0153] Components included in the housing 100 may be detachable from each other. For example, the second front frame 120 may be detachable from the first front frame 110, the second side frame 160, the top cover 171, the base 172, etc. For example, the second side frame 160 may be detachable from the second front frame 120, the second rear frame 140, the top cover 171, the base 172, etc. For example, the top cover 171 may be detachable from the first front frame 110, the second front frame 120, the second rear frame 140, the first side frame 150, and the second side frame 160, etc.

[0154] Therefore, when it is necessary to perform the task of inspecting, replacing or repairing the components inside the outdoor unit 10, the worker can perform the task by disassembling at least one component of the housing 100.

[0155] The configuration of the housing that may be included in the air conditioner according to this disclosure is not limited to the configuration described above.

[0156] The outdoor heat exchanger 11 can exchange heat with the outside air. Refrigerant can flow through the outdoor heat exchanger 11. Heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outside air can occur in the outdoor heat exchanger 11.

[0157] For example, during the cooling operation of air conditioner 1, the high-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant gas can condense in the outdoor heat exchanger 11, and during condensation, the refrigerant can dissipate heat to the outdoor air. During the cooling operation of air conditioner 1, the outdoor heat exchanger 11 can discharge liquid refrigerant.

[0158] During the heating operation of air conditioner 1, low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant liquid can evaporate in outdoor heat exchanger 11, and during refrigerant evaporation, the refrigerant can absorb heat from the outside air. During the heating operation of air conditioner 1, outdoor heat exchanger 11 can discharge refrigerant gas.

[0159] The outdoor heat exchanger 11 can face inlets 131 and 151 in the heat exchange chamber R1.

[0160] The compressor 12 can compress refrigerant gas and discharge high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas. For example, the compressor 12 may include a motor and a compression mechanism, and the compression mechanism can compress the refrigerant gas using the torque of the motor.

[0161] The outdoor unit 10 may include an outdoor fan 13 for circulating air and a fan motor 14 for generating rotational force to rotate the outdoor fan 13.

[0162] For example, the outdoor unit 10 may include a motor bracket 15 that supports the outdoor fan 13 and the fan motor 14. The motor bracket 15 may be positioned in the heat exchange chamber R1.

[0163] For example, outdoor unit 10 may include a plate heat exchanger 21. The plate heat exchanger 21 can exchange heat between refrigerant and water. The plate heat exchanger 21 may be located inside housing 100. For example, the plate heat exchanger 21 may be located inside machine room R2.

[0164] For example, outdoor unit 10 may include a water pipe 23 through which water flows into or out of outdoor unit 10 from the outside. Water pipe 23 may be connected to plate heat exchanger 21. At least a portion of water pipe 23 may be located inside housing 100. For example, at least a portion of water pipe 23 may be located in machinery room R2.

[0165] Water flowing into the outdoor unit 10 from the outside through water pipe 23 can exchange heat with the high-temperature refrigerant in the plate heat exchanger 21. The water can absorb heat from the high-temperature refrigerant in the plate heat exchanger 21 and then be transferred to the outside of the outdoor unit 10 through water pipe 23.

[0166] For example, outdoor unit 10 may include an expansion tank 22. Due to the temperature rise of the water caused by plate heat exchanger 21, the volume of water in water pipe 23 can increase, and in this case, expansion tank 22 can prevent and / or reduce sudden increases in water pressure. Expansion tank 22 may be located inside housing 100. For example, expansion tank 22 may be located in machine room R2.

[0167] Thus, the outdoor unit 10 according to the embodiment may include part of a heating system that supplies hot water by including a plate heat exchanger 21, water pipes 23 and an expansion tank 22.

[0168] However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and in the air conditioner according to the embodiment, the plate heat exchanger, water pipes, and expansion tank can be provided outside the outdoor unit. The air conditioner according to the embodiment may not be equipped with a heating system.

[0169] Outdoor unit 10 may include multiple printed circuit boards (PCBs) 81, 82, and 83 (see example) for driving various components of outdoor unit 10. Figure 4 and Figure 14 Various electronic components can be mounted on multiple PCBs 81, 82, and 83. The outdoor unit 10 may include control boxes 800 and 900 that accommodate multiple PCBs 81, 82, and 83.

[0170] For example, outdoor unit 10 may include a first control box 800. The first control box 800 may be housed inside housing 100. The first control box 800 may be located in machine room R2.

[0171] like Figure 3 As shown, for example, the first control box 800 may be located in the front area of ​​the machine room R2 and covered by the second front frame 120.

[0172] For example, outdoor unit 10 may include a second control box 900. The second control box 900 may be housed inside housing 100. The second control box 900 may be located in machinery room R2.

[0173] like Figure 3 As shown, for example, the second control box 900 can be positioned in the right-side region of the machine room R2 and covered by the second side frame 160.

[0174] Outdoor unit 10 may include conduit 400. Conduit 400 may be connected to control boxes 800 and 900.

[0175] Pipe 400 can be located in the machine room R2. Pipe 400 connects the internal space of the machine room R2 to the heat exchange chamber R1. Pipe 400 can discharge heat generated inside the control boxes 800 and 900 to the heat exchange chamber R1.

[0176] For example, conduit 400 may allow the interior of the first control box 800 to communicate with the heat exchange chamber R1. For example, conduit 400 may allow the interior of the second control box 900 to communicate with the heat exchange chamber R1.

[0177] Driven by the outdoor fan 13, air inside the machine room R2 can flow into the heat exchange chamber R1 via the duct 400 through the suction of the outdoor fan 13. Therefore, refrigerant gas, for example, leaking from internal components of the outdoor unit 10 and flowing into the control boxes 800 and 900, can flow into the heat exchange chamber R1 via the duct 400. Heat generated inside the control boxes 800 and 900 can be discharged into the heat exchange chamber R1 via the duct 400.

[0178] Outdoor unit 10 may include a connecting pipe 500. The connecting pipe 500 can connect the partition 16 to the pipe 400. The connecting pipe 500 can connect the partition 16 and the pipe 400. Therefore, according to the drive of the outdoor fan 13, the internal air of the machine room R2 can flow into the heat exchange chamber R1 sequentially through the pipe 400 and the connecting pipe 500 by the suction of the outdoor fan 13.

[0179] However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the connecting pipe 500 may be integrated into the pipe 400. Alternatively, the pipe 400 may be connected to the partition 16 without the connecting pipe 500.

[0180] The structure of pipe 400 and connecting pipe 500 will be described in more detail below.

[0181] The above configuration of outdoor unit 10 may only be an example of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to this disclosure, and this disclosure is not limited thereto. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to this disclosure may have various structures, as long as outside air flows into the outdoor unit through an inlet and the air is heat-exchanged and then discharged to the outside.

[0182] Figure 4 This is an enlarged perspective view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0183] refer to Figure 4 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1 may include a first control box 800 and a second control box 900.

[0184] Each of the first control box 800 and the second control box 900 can accommodate a PCB (or some PCBs) among a plurality of PCBs provided in the outdoor unit 10.

[0185] For example, outdoor unit 10 may include a first PCB 81, a second PCB 82, and a third PCB 83. Each of the first control box 800 and the second control box 900 may accommodate PCBs (or some PCBs) from the first PCB 81, second PCB 82, and third PCB 83 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 14 ).

[0186] For example, a first PCB 81 can be housed in a first control box 800. For example, a second PCB 82 can be housed in a second control box 900. For example, a third PCB 83 can be housed in a second control box 900.

[0187] The first control box 800 may include a first housing 810. For example, the first housing 810 may accommodate a first PCB 81. The first housing 810 may include a first receiving space 811 to accommodate the first PCB 81.

[0188] One side of the first housing 810 may be open. That is, the first housing 810 may include a first housing opening 810a formed on one side. For example, the first PCB 81 can be inserted into or removed from the first housing 810 through the first housing opening 810a. Workers can access and perform tasks on the first PCB 81 housed inside the first housing 810 through the first housing opening 810a.

[0189] For example, the first housing opening 810a may be formed on one side of the first housing 810 in the forward direction (+X direction). That is, the first housing 810 may be open in the forward direction (+X direction).

[0190] For example, the first housing 810 can be roughly box-shaped.

[0191] The first control box 800 may include a first housing cover 820 detachably coupled to a first housing 810. The first housing cover 820 may be coupled to the first housing 810 to close a first housing opening 810a. The first housing cover 820 may be removed from the first housing 810 to open the first housing opening 810a. For example, the manufacturer of the first control box 800 may insert a first PCB 81 into the first housing 810 and then attach the first housing cover 820 to the first housing 810, thereby covering the internal space of the first housing 810. A worker wishing to inspect the first PCB 81 or replace / repair components inside the first control box 800 can access the first PCB 81 by removing the first housing cover 820 from the first housing 810.

[0192] For example, the first housing cover 820 can be connected to the first housing 810 in the forward direction (+X direction). That is, the first housing cover 820 can cover the first PCB 81 in the forward direction (+X direction).

[0193] For example, the first outer cover 820 can be formed in a generally flat shape.

[0194] In this way, the first PCB 81 inside the first housing 810 can be protected from external impacts, foreign objects, leaked refrigerant gas, etc. by the first housing cover 820. In addition, because the first housing cover 820 can be removed from the first housing 810, workers can access the first PCB 81 as needed.

[0195] The second control box 900 may include a second housing 910. For example, the second housing 910 may accommodate a second PCB 82 and a third PCB 83 (see...). Figure 14 The second housing 910 may include a second receiving space 911 therein for accommodating the second PCB 82 and the third PCB 83.

[0196] One side of the second housing 910 may be open. That is, the second housing 910 may include a second housing opening 910a formed on one side. For example, the second PCB 82 and the third PCB 83 (see Figure 14 It can be inserted into or removed from the second housing 910 through the second housing opening 910a. Workers can access and perform tasks on the second PCB 82 and the third PCB 83 housed inside the second housing 910 through the second housing opening 910a.

[0197] For example, the second housing opening 910a may be formed in one side of the second housing 910 in the right direction (+Y direction). For example, the second housing 910 may be open in the right direction (+Y direction), but is not limited thereto. However, the open side of the second housing 910 may depend on factors such as the position of the second housing 910 within the housing 100.

[0198] For example, the second outer casing 910 can be roughly formed in the shape of a box.

[0199] The second control box 900 may include a second housing cover 920 detachably coupled to the second housing 910. The second housing cover 920 may be coupled to the second housing 910 to close the second housing opening 910a. The second housing cover 920 may be detached from the second housing 910 to open the second housing opening 910a. For example, the manufacturer of the second control box 900 may include a second PCB 82 and a third PCB 83 (see...) Figure 14 The second housing cover 920 is inserted into the second housing 910, and then attached to the second housing 910 to cover the interior space of the second housing 910. Workers who want to inspect the second PCB 82 and the third PCB 83 or replace / repair the components inside the second control box 900 can access the second PCB 82 and the third PCB 83 by removing the second housing cover 920 from the second housing 910.

[0200] For example, the second housing cover 920 can be attached to the right-hand side (+Y direction) of the second housing 910. That is, the second housing cover 920 can cover the second PCB 82 and the third PCB 83 in the right-hand (+Y direction) direction.

[0201] For example, the second outer cover 920 can be formed in a generally flat shape.

[0202] In this way, the second housing cover 920 can protect the second PCB 82 and the third PCB 83 inside the second housing 910 (see...). Figure 14 It is protected from external impacts, foreign objects, leaked refrigerant gas, etc. Furthermore, because the second outer cover 920 can be removed from the second housing 610, workers can access the second PCB 82 and the third PCB 83 as needed.

[0203] The structure of the second control box 900 will be described in more detail below.

[0204] Multiple PCBs 81, 82, and 83 provided in the outdoor unit 10 can supply power to various components of the outdoor unit 10, such as the compressor 12, fan motor 14, plate heat exchanger 21, and expansion tank 22. The multiple PCBs 81, 82, and 83 can control the operation of the various components of the outdoor unit 10, such as the compressor 12, fan motor 14, plate heat exchanger 21, and expansion tank 22. Alternatively, the multiple PCBs 81, 82, and 83 can receive sensing signals from various sensors (not shown) provided in the compressor 12, outdoor heat exchanger 11, etc. The multiple PCBs 81, 82, and 83 can be electrically connected to various components of the outdoor unit 10 via wires.

[0205] For example, the first PCB 81, the second PCB 82, and the third PCB 83 (see...) Figure 14 (This can be electrically connected to various components of the outdoor unit 10 via wires. Alternatively, the first PCB 81, the second PCB 82, and the third PCB 83 (see...) Figure 14 They can be electrically connected to each other via wires. Alternatively, the first PCB 81, the second PCB 82, and the third PCB 83 (see...) Figure 14 It can be electrically connected via wire to a device (not shown) located outside the outdoor unit 10.

[0206] For example, the first PCB 81 can be connected to the second PCB 82 or the third PCB 83 via wires that penetrate the first housing 810 and the second housing 910. For example, the first PCB 81 can be connected to various components of the outdoor unit 10 via wires that penetrate the second housing 910.

[0207] For example, the second PCB 82 can be connected to the first PCB 81 via wires that penetrate the first housing 810 and the second housing 910. For example, the second PCB 82 can be connected to various components of the outdoor unit 10 via wires that penetrate the second housing 910. For example, the second PCB 82 can be connected to the third PCB 83 via wires located inside the second housing 910.

[0208] For example, the second PCB 83 can be connected to the first PCB 81 via wires that penetrate the first housing 810 and the second housing 910. For example, the third PCB 83 can be connected to various components of the outdoor unit 10 via wires that penetrate the second housing 910. For example, the third PCB 83 can be connected to the third PCB 81 via wires located inside the second housing 910.

[0209] For example, the second control box 900 may include a noise filter 930 for reducing noise from the current. For example, the noise filter 930 may be coupled to the second housing 910 in the left direction (-Y direction).

[0210] The outdoor unit 10 may include a wire guide 50. The wire guide 50 may secure / support a portion of the wires connected to the first PCB 81, the second PCB 82, and the third PCB 83. For example, the wire guide 50 may be coupled to and supported by the second control box 900.

[0211] The first control box 800 and the second control box 900 can be supported inside the housing 100.

[0212] For example, the outdoor unit 10 may include a first support frame 60 provided inside the housing 100. For example, the first support frame 60 may support the lower portions of the first control box 800 and the second control box 900. For example, the first support frame 60 may be supported by a base 172.

[0213] For example, the outdoor unit 10 may include a second support frame 70 provided inside the housing 100. For example, the second support frame 70 may support the lower portion of the second control box 900. For example, the second support frame 70 may be supported by a first support frame 60.

[0214] The aforementioned components of the first control box 800 and the second control box 900 may be examples of control boxes included in the outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to the present disclosure and housing the PCB. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0215] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 (It can be called) Figures 2 to 4 As shown, control boxes 800 and 900 can be installed such that housing covers 820 and 920 face the outside of housing 100. In other words, control boxes 800 and 900 can be installed such that housing openings 810a and 910a of housings 810 and 910 face the outside of housing 100.

[0216] For example, the first control box 800 can be installed such that the first housing cover 820 and the first housing opening 810a face the front direction (+X direction) of the outdoor unit 10. The first control box 800 can be installed such that the first housing cover 820 and the first housing opening 810a face the front direction (+X direction) of the housing 100. The first control box 800 can be installed such that the first housing cover 820 and the first housing opening 810a face the second front frame 120. The first control box 800 can be installed such that the first housing cover 820 and the first housing opening 810a are adjacent to the second front frame 120. With this configuration, a worker wishing to access the first PCB 81 can easily access the first PCB 81 inside the first housing 810 by separating the second front frame 120 in the front direction of the outdoor unit 10 and separating the first housing cover 820 from the first housing 810.

[0217] For example, the second control box 900 can be installed such that the second housing cover 910 and the second housing opening 910a face to the right (Y+ direction) of the outdoor unit 10. The second control box 900 can be installed such that the second housing cover 920 and the second housing opening 910a face to the right (+Y direction) of the housing 100. The second control box 900 can be installed such that the second housing cover 920 and the second housing opening 910a face the second side frame 160. The second control box 900 can be installed such that the second housing cover 920 and the second housing opening 910a are adjacent to the second side frame 160. With this configuration, a worker wishing to access the second PCB 82 or the third PCB 83 can easily access the second PCB 82 or the third PCB 83 inside the second housing 910 by separating the second side frame 160 to the left of the outdoor unit 10 and separating the second housing cover 920 from the second housing 910.

[0218] As described above, the air conditioner 1 according to the embodiments of this disclosure can operate using heat exchange that occurs during refrigerant evaporation / condensation. Therefore, many types of refrigerants can be used for the operation of the air conditioner 1.

[0219] However, some types of refrigerants that can be used in air conditioner 1 may contain highly flammable substances. For example, R290 refrigerant, which can be used in the cooling cycle of various types of air conditioners including air conditioner 1 according to the embodiment, is a natural hydrocarbon refrigerant containing propane. R290 refrigerant has the advantage of being an eco-friendly refrigerant with very low ozone depletion potential (ODP) and global warming potential (GWP), but it has the disadvantage of being relatively highly flammable compared to other types of refrigerants.

[0220] Therefore, in the case where a highly flammable type of refrigerant such as R290 is used in the air conditioner 1 according to the embodiment, refrigerant leakage from various components in the outdoor unit 10 (such as the compressor 12, the outdoor heat exchanger 11, or the refrigerant pipes connecting the compressor 12 and the outdoor heat exchanger 11 to each other) may increase the risk of fire. In particular, the possibility of fire may be further increased if the leaked refrigerant enters the control boxes 800 and 900 and various electronic components or wires in the control boxes 800 and 900 are exposed to the refrigerant.

[0221] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, control boxes 800 and 900 can be installed such that housing openings 810a and 910a of housings 810 and 910 face the outside of housing 100, and housing openings 810a and 910a are adjacent to the inner surface of housing 100. This configuration prevents or reduces refrigerant leakage from various components in outdoor unit 10 from flowing into the interior of housings 810 and 910 through housing openings 810a and 910a.

[0222] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the partition of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner as viewed from one direction according to various embodiments. Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing an example control box and ductwork of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments. Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view showing the first control box and ductwork of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0223] refer to Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 (It can be called) Figures 5 to 8 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1 may include a radiator 300.

[0224] The heat sink 300 can dissipate heat generated inside the first control box 800 to the outside of the first control box 800. For example, the heat sink 300 can dissipate heat generated in the first PCB 81 to the outside of the first control box 800. In other words, the heat sink 300 can dissipate heat generated in the first PCB 81 to the outside of the first housing 810.

[0225] Heat sink 300 can be connected to first PCB 81. Heat generated in first PCB 81 can be conducted to heat sink 300. Heat sink 300 can transfer heat to the surrounding air through convection.

[0226] At least a portion of the radiator 300 may be located outside the first control box 800. For example, at least a majority of the radiator 300 may be located outside the first control box 800. With this arrangement, the radiator 300 can effectively transfer heat to the outside air of the first control box 800.

[0227] The radiator 300 can be installed in the first control box 800. For example, the first housing 810 may include a radiator mounting portion 812 in which the radiator 300 is installed. The radiator mounting portion 812 may be formed in one side of the first housing 810.

[0228] For example, the heat sink 300 can be connected to the first PCB 81 by penetrating one side of the first housing 810. Alternatively, the heat sink 300 can be connected to the first PCB 81 by penetrating the heat sink mounting portion 812. The heat sink 300 can penetrate the heat sink mounting portion 812. For example, the heat sink mounting portion 812 may include an opening through which the heat sink 300 passes.

[0229] The radiator 300 can be installed in the side of the first control box 800 opposite to the first housing opening 810a of the first control box 800. The radiator mounting portion 812 can be opposite to the first housing opening 810a.

[0230] As described above, the first control box 800 can be installed inside the machine compartment R2 such that the first housing opening 810a and the first housing cover 820 face the front direction (+X direction) of the housing 100. Therefore, the heat sink 300 can be installed behind the first control box 800 in the -X direction. In other words, the heat sink 300 can be installed behind the first housing 810 in the -X direction. The heat sink mounting portion 812 can be formed on the rear surface of the first housing 810.

[0231] With this structure, the radiator 300 can dissipate heat in the rear direction (-X direction) of the first housing 810.

[0232] The structure of the radiator 300 will be described in more detail below.

[0233] The outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a duct 400.

[0234] The conduit 400 can be located inside the housing 100. For example, the conduit 400 can be located in the machine room R2. The conduit 400 can be connected to the interior space of the machine room R2. For example, the entire conduit 400 can be located in the machine room R2. For example, a large portion of the conduit 400 can be located in the machine room R2, and another portion of the conduit 400 can be located in the heat exchange chamber R1 by penetrating the partition 16.

[0235] The conduit 400 can connect the interior space of the machine room R2 to the heat exchange chamber R1. For example, the conduit 400 can be positioned such that the interior space of the machine room R2 outside the conduit 400 is connected to the heat exchange chamber R1. While driving the outdoor fan 13 of the heat exchange chamber R1, the interior air of the machine room R2 can flow into the heat exchange chamber R1 through the conduit 400.

[0236] The conduit 400 can accommodate the radiator 300. At least a portion of the radiator 300 can be positioned inside the conduit 400. The conduit 400 can cover the radiator 300.

[0237] The conduit 400 can be positioned to one side of the first control box 800. More specifically, the conduit 400 can be positioned relative to the first control box 800 in the direction in which the heat sink 300 is mounted. For example, the conduit 400 can be positioned in the -X direction behind the first control box 800 to accommodate the heat sink 300.

[0238] For example, pipe 400 can be positioned to one side of the second control box 900. Figure 5 As shown, pipe 400 can be positioned to the left (-Y direction) of the second control box 900.

[0239] Driven by the outdoor fan 13 of the heat exchange chamber R1, air flowing from the interior of the machine room R2 to the heat exchange chamber R1 can pass through the radiator 300 and exchange heat with it. In other words, the radiator 300 can exchange heat with the air flowing inside the duct 400. The radiator 300 can receive heat generated inside the first control box 800 and transfer the received heat to the air flowing inside the duct 400.

[0240] Therefore, pipe 400 can discharge heat transferred from radiator 300 to heat exchange chamber R1. Pipe 400 can also discharge refrigerant gas that has leaked into machine compartment R2 to heat exchange chamber R1.

[0241] For example, pipe 400 can be connected to heat exchange chamber R1 via partition 16. Pipe 400 can be connected to partition 16 and connected to heat exchange chamber R1 via a portion connected to partition 16.

[0242] For example, partition 16 may include partition opening 16a. Partition opening 16a can be formed by opening a portion of partition 16. Partition opening 16a can connect heat exchange chamber R1 to machine chamber R2.

[0243] For example, the partition opening 16a can have a shape that penetrates the partition 16 in the horizontal direction (Y direction). Driven by the outdoor fan 13 of the heat exchange chamber R1, air from the machine room R2 can pass through the partition opening 16a in the horizontal direction and flow into the heat exchange chamber R1.

[0244] Pipe 400 can be connected to partition opening 16a. Pipe 400 can be connected to heat exchange chamber R1 through partition opening 16a. The internal space of pipe 400 can be connected to heat exchange chamber R1 through partition opening 16a. That is, driven by the outdoor fan 13 of heat exchange chamber R1, the internal air of machine room R2 can pass through pipe 400 and partition opening 16a and flow into heat exchange chamber R1. The internal air of pipe 400 can be discharged to heat exchange chamber R1 through partition opening 16a.

[0245] The distance between the first control box 800 and the partition 16 can depend on the length of the machine room R2 in the horizontal direction (Y direction). For example, as the length of the machine room R2 in the horizontal direction (Y direction) increases, the distance between the first control box 800 and the partition 16 can increase. In this case, the pipe 400 located to one side of the first control box 800 can be spaced apart from the partition 16 by a predetermined distance.

[0246] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The outdoor unit 10 may include a connecting conduit 500 providing a connection between the conduit 400 and the partition 16. The connecting conduit 500 can connect the conduit 400 to the partition 16. The connecting conduit 500 can extend from the conduit 400 to the partition 16.

[0247] The connecting pipe 500 can be located inside the housing 100. For example, the connecting pipe 500 can be located in the machine room R2. The connecting pipe 500 can connect to the interior space of the machine room R2. For example, the entire connecting pipe 500 can be located in the machine room R2. Alternatively, most of the connecting pipe 500 can be located in the machine room R2, and another portion of the connecting pipe 500 can be located in the heat exchange chamber R1 through the partition 16.

[0248] Connecting conduit 500 can connect the interior of conduit 400 (e.g., conduit flow path 430, which will be described in more detail below) to heat exchange chamber R1. Connecting conduit 500 can exhaust air from the interior of conduit 400 to heat exchange chamber R1. Air from the interior of conduit 400 can be exhausted to heat exchange chamber R1 through connecting conduit 500.

[0249] Connecting pipe 500 can be connected to pipe 400. For example, connecting pipe 500 can be connected to pipe outlet 420, which will be described below. Connecting pipe 500 can be connected to the interior space of pipe 400 through pipe outlet 420.

[0250] For example, connecting pipe 500 may include a connecting pipe inlet 510 connected to pipe 400. Internal air of pipe 400 may flow into connecting pipe 500 through connecting pipe inlet 510. Air discharged from pipe 400 through pipe outlet 420 may flow into connecting pipe 500 through connecting pipe inlet 510.

[0251] For example, the connecting pipe inlet 510 can be formed by opening at least one side of the connecting pipe 500. The connecting pipe inlet 510 can be formed by opening the side of the connecting pipe 500 adjacent to the pipe 400.

[0252] For example, the connecting pipe inlet 510 may have a shape that penetrates one side of the connecting pipe 500 in the horizontal direction (Y direction). Figure 6 As shown, the connecting pipe inlet 510 may have a shape that penetrates the connecting pipe 500 to the right (+Y direction) of the horizontal direction (Y direction). Air discharged from the pipe 400 may pass through the connecting pipe inlet 510 in the horizontal direction (Y direction) and flow into the connecting pipe 500.

[0253] For example, connecting pipe 500 can be connected to pipe 400. For example, pipe 400 may include a connecting pipe connection portion 403 connected to connecting pipe 500. Pipe outlet 420, described below, may be provided in connecting pipe connection portion 403. Connecting pipe connection portion 403 may pass through connecting pipe inlet 510 of connecting pipe 500. Connecting pipe connection portion 403 may pass through connecting pipe inlet 510 to connect to connecting pipe 500. Therefore, at least a portion of connecting pipe connection portion 403 may be located inside connecting pipe 500. This structure can prevent and / or reduce leakage of air discharged from pipe 400 through the space between connecting pipe connection portion 403 and connecting pipe inlet 510.

[0254] For example, the outdoor unit 10 may further include a sealing member (e.g., a seal) 600 for sealing the gap between the connecting pipe connection portion 403 and the connecting pipe inlet 510. For example, the sealing member 600 may be positioned on the outer peripheral surface of the connecting pipe connection portion 403. For example, the sealing member 600 may be positioned along the periphery of the connecting pipe inlet 510. For example, the sealing member 600 may contact the inner surface of the connecting pipe 500 in which the connecting pipe inlet 510 is formed.

[0255] The connecting pipe 500 can be connected to the partition 16. For example, the connecting pipe 500 can be connected to the partition opening 16a. The connecting pipe 500 can be connected to the heat exchange chamber R1 through the partition opening 16a.

[0256] For example, the connecting duct 500 may include a connecting duct outlet 520 connected to the partition 16. The connecting duct outlet 520 may be provided to allow internal air of the connecting duct 500 to be discharged into the heat exchange chamber R1 through the partition 16. The connecting duct outlet 520 may be located at a position corresponding to the partition opening 16a. Internal air of the connecting duct 500 may be discharged into the heat exchange chamber R1 through both the connecting duct outlet 520 and the partition opening 16a.

[0257] For example, the connection pipe outlet 520 can be formed by opening at least one side of the connection pipe 500. The connection pipe outlet 520 can be formed by opening the side of the connection pipe 500 adjacent to the partition 16.

[0258] For example, the connecting pipe outlet 520 may have a shape that penetrates one side of the connecting pipe 500 in the horizontal direction (Y direction). Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the connecting pipe outlet 520 may have a shape that penetrates one side of the connecting pipe 500 in the horizontal direction (Y direction) in the left direction (-Y direction). The internal air of the connecting pipe 500 can be discharged into the heat exchange chamber R1 by passing through the connecting pipe outlet 520 in the horizontal direction (Y direction).

[0259] For example, the connection pipe outlet 520 may have a larger size than the connection pipe inlet 510, but is not limited thereto. However, the size of the connection pipe outlet 520 may be substantially equal to the size of the connection pipe inlet 510, or the size of the connection pipe outlet 520 may be smaller than the size of the connection pipe inlet 510.

[0260] For example, the connecting pipe 500 can be connected to the partition 16. For example, the connecting pipe 500 may include a partition connecting portion 501 having a hook shape, and the partition connecting portion 501 may engage with the partition 16 by passing through a pipe connecting portion 16b formed in the partition 16, but is not limited thereto. However, the connecting pipe 500 may be connected to the partition 16 by various methods.

[0261] The connecting conduit 500 may include a connecting conduit flow path 530 formed within the connecting conduit 500. The connecting conduit flow path 530 may be located between the connecting conduit inlet 510 and the connecting conduit outlet 520. The connecting conduit flow path 530 may extend from the connecting conduit inlet 510 to the connecting conduit outlet 520.

[0262] For example, the dimensions of the connecting pipe flow path 530 can be larger than the dimensions of the connecting pipe inlet 510. For example, the dimensions of the cross-section of the connecting pipe flow path 530 cut in a direction perpendicular to the air flow direction (the cross-section cut in the XZ plane) can be larger than the dimensions of the connecting pipe inlet 510, but are not limited thereto. However, the connecting pipe flow path 530 can have various dimensions.

[0263] With this configuration, driven by the outdoor fan 13 of the heat exchange chamber R1, the internal air of the mechanical chamber R2 can sequentially pass through the pipe 400 and the connecting pipe 500 and flow into the heat exchange chamber R1.

[0264] For example, the connecting pipe 500 can be connected to the first control box 800. For example, the connecting pipe 500 can be connected to the first control box 800 by screws or the like, but is not limited thereto. However, the connecting pipe 500 can be connected to and supported by various components of the outdoor unit 10.

[0265] The above-described configuration of the connecting pipe 500 may be an example of a structure for connecting pipe 400 to partition 16, and this disclosure is not limited thereto. The outdoor unit 10 according to this disclosure may include connecting pipes with various structures. Pipe 400 may be directly connected to partition 16, as referenced below. Figure 15 To be shown and described in more detail.

[0266] The structure of pipe 400 will be described in more detail below.

[0267] Pipe 400 may include a pipe inlet 410 through which air flows into pipe 400. Pipe inlet 410 allows air to flow from the interior space of the machine room R2 outside pipe 400 into the interior of pipe 400. Pipe inlet 410 is configured to introduce air into the interior of the pipe. Pipe inlet 410 is configured to move air into the interior of the pipe.

[0268] Pipe inlet 410 can be formed by opening at least one side of pipe 400. The interior space of machine room R2 can be connected to the interior space of pipe 400 (in particular, pipe flow path 430, which will be described below) through pipe inlet 410.

[0269] For example, such as Figure 7 As shown, a pipe inlet 410 can be provided in the lower portion of the pipe 400. For example, as Figure 7 As shown, the pipe inlet 410 may have a shape that penetrates the lower portion of the pipe 400 in the vertical direction (Z direction). In this case, air from the interior space of the machine room R2 can flow into the interior of the pipe 400 by passing through the pipe inlet 410 in the vertical direction (Z direction).

[0270] Pipe 400 may include pipe outlet 420 through which internal air of pipe 400 is discharged to the outside of pipe 400. Pipe outlet 420 allows internal air of pipe 400 to be discharged into heat exchange chamber R1. In other words, pipe outlet 420 can discharge air into heat exchange chamber R1.

[0271] Pipe outlet 420 can be formed by opening at least one side of pipe 400. Heat exchange chamber R1 can be connected to the interior space of pipe 400 (specifically, pipe flow path 430, which will be described below) through pipe outlet 420.

[0272] For example, pipe outlet 420 can be formed on the side of pipe 400 adjacent to heat exchange chamber R1. For example, as Figure 7 As shown, the pipe outlet 420 can be formed in the left (-Y direction) portion of the pipe 400. For example, as Figure 7 As shown, the pipe outlet 420 may have a shape that penetrates the pipe 400 in the horizontal direction (Y direction) on the side adjacent to the heat exchange chamber R1. In this case, air inside the pipe 400 can flow into the pipe 400 by passing through the pipe outlet 420 in the horizontal direction (Y direction).

[0273] Pipeline 400 may include a pipeline flow path 430. The pipeline flow path 430 may be formed inside pipeline 400. The pipeline flow path 430 may be provided between pipeline inlet 410 and pipeline outlet 420. The pipeline flow path 430 may extend from pipeline inlet 420 to pipeline outlet 420.

[0274] Air can flow inside the duct flow path 430. Driven by the outdoor fan 13 of the heat exchange chamber R1, the air flowing in through the duct inlet 410 can flow along the duct flow path 430 to the duct outlet 420 and be discharged to the outside of the duct 400 through the duct outlet 420.

[0275] The duct flow path 430 can pass through the radiator 300. The radiator 300 can be positioned on the duct flow path 430. Air flowing along the duct flow path 430 can flow along the radiator 300.

[0276] The conduit 400 may cover one side of the first control box 800. For example, the conduit 400 may cover one side of the first housing 810. For example, the conduit 400 may be connected to the side of the first control box 800 where the heat sink 300 is mounted. For example, the conduit 400 may cover the side of the first housing 810 opposite to the side of the first housing 810 where the first housing opening 810a is formed.

[0277] For example, such as Figure 8As shown, when the conduit 400 covers one side of the first control box 800, the conduit flow path 430 can be formed in the space formed between the conduit 400 and the first control box 800. For example, when the conduit 400 covers one side of the first control box 800, the first flow path 431, the second flow path 432, and the third flow path 433, which will be described in more detail below, can be formed in the space formed between the conduit 400 and the first control box 800.

[0278] The conduit 400 can be connected to the first control box 800. The conduit 400 can be connected to one side of the first control box 800. For example, the conduit 400 can be connected to the side of the first control box 800 where the heat sink 300 is mounted. For example, the conduit 400 can be connected to the side of the first housing 810 opposite to the side where the first housing opening 810a is formed. For example, the conduit 400 can be connected to the rearward (-X direction) side of the first control box 800.

[0279] The conduit 400 may include a first control box connection portion 401 connected to the first control box 800. For example, the first control box connection portion 401 may be connected to one side of the first control box 800 in the rearward (-X direction). For example, the first control box connection portion 401 may be connected to one side of the first housing 810 in the rearward (-X direction).

[0280] The first control box connection part 401 can be connected to the first housing 810 by various methods such as screw connection.

[0281] For example, pipe 400 can be connected to the internal space of the first control box 800, i.e., the first receiving space 811. For example, pipe flow path 430 can be connected to the first receiving space 811. Pipe 400 may include a first control box connection hole 401a, which is formed to connect pipe flow path 430 to the first receiving space 811. A first pipe connection hole 813 corresponding to the first control box connection hole 401a can be formed in the first housing 810.

[0282] Because the duct flow path 430 is connected to the first containment space 811, the refrigerant gas flowing into the first containment space 811 driven by the outdoor fan 13 of the heat exchange chamber R1 can be discharged through the duct flow path 430 and flow into the heat exchange chamber R1. Because the duct flow path 430 is connected to the first containment space 811, the internal heat of the first control box 800 can be discharged more efficiently through the duct flow path 430.

[0283] For example, a first control box connection hole 401a may be provided in the first control box connection portion 401 of the conduit 400. The first control box connection hole 401a may have a shape that penetrates the first control box connection portion 401.

[0284] For example, the first pipe connection hole 813 may be formed in one side of the first housing 810 in the rearward direction (-X direction).

[0285] For example, the conduit 400 may cover one side of the second control box 900. For example, the conduit 400 may cover one side of the second housing 910. For example, the conduit 400 may cover the side of the second housing 910 opposite to the other side of the second housing 910 in which the second housing opening 910a is formed.

[0286] For example, such as Figure 8 As shown, because the conduit 400 covers one side of the second control box 900, a conduit flow path 430 can be formed in the space between the conduit 400 and the second control box 900. For example, because the conduit 400 covers one side of the second control box 900, a fourth flow path 434, which will be described in more detail below, can be formed in the space between the conduit 400 and the second control box 900.

[0287] The conduit 400 can be connected to the second control box 900. The conduit 400 can be connected to one side of the second control box 900. For example, the conduit 400 can be connected to the side of the second housing 910 opposite to the side of the second housing 910 in which the second housing opening 910a is formed. For example, the conduit 400 can be connected to the portion of the second control box 900 in the left direction (-Y direction).

[0288] The conduit 400 may include a second control box connection portion 402 that is connected to the second control box 900. For example, the second control box connection portion 402 may be connected to the left (-Y direction) portion of the second control box 900. For example, the second control box connection portion 402 may be connected to the left (-Y direction) portion of the second housing 910.

[0289] The second control box connection part 402 can be connected to the second housing 910 by various methods such as screw connection.

[0290] For example, pipe 400 can be connected to the interior space of the second control box 900, i.e., the second receiving space 911. For example, pipe flow path 430 can be connected to the second receiving space 911. One side of the second control box connection portion 402 covering the second control box 900 can be open. The second housing 910 may include a second pipe connection hole 913 for connecting the pipe flow path 430 to the second receiving space 911 (see...). Figure 12Because the second control box connection portion 402 covers the second pipe connection hole 913, the pipe flow path 430 can be connected to the second receiving space 911.

[0291] Because the duct flow path 430 is connected to the second containment space 911, refrigerant gas flowing into the second containment space 911 driven by the outdoor fan 13 of the heat exchange chamber R1 can be discharged through the duct flow path 430 and flow into the heat exchange chamber R1. Furthermore, because the duct flow path 430 is connected to the second containment space 911, internal heat from the second control box 900 can be discharged through the duct flow path 430.

[0292] For example, the second pipe connection hole 913 (see example) Figure 12 It can be formed in the left (-Y direction) portion of the second housing 910.

[0293] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the radiator of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0294] refer to Figure 9 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the radiator 300 of the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1 can exchange heat with air passing through the radiator 300 in substantially one direction. For example, the radiator 300 can receive heat generated in the first PCB 81 and transfer the heat to the air passing through the radiator 300 in substantially one direction. The flow direction of the air passing through the radiator 300 is defined as a first direction Z. The radiator 300 can extend along the first direction Z. For example, the radiator 300 can extend along the vertical direction Z of the outdoor unit 10.

[0295] For example, the radiator 300 may include multiple heat transfer plates 301. The multiple heat transfer plates 301 may be positioned inside the conduit 400. The multiple heat transfer plates 301 may be covered by the conduit 400. The conduit flow path 430 may pass through the multiple heat transfer plates 301.

[0296] Each of the heat transfer plates 301 can be formed in the shape of a plate made of a material with high thermal conductivity (e.g., metal). Each of the heat transfer plates 301 can transfer internal heat from the first control box 800 to the internal air of the duct 400.

[0297] Each of the heat transfer plates 301 may extend from the side adjacent to the first PCB 81. For example, each of the heat transfer plates 301 may extend from the side adjacent to the first PCB 81 in the second direction X. For example, each of the heat transfer plates 301 may extend from the side adjacent to the first PCB 81 in the rear direction (-X direction).

[0298] Each of the heat transfer plates 301 may extend in a first direction Z. For example, the heat transfer plate 301 may extend in the first direction Z with a longer length. The first direction Z may be approximately orthogonal to the second direction X, and the heat transfer plate 301 extends from the side of the first printed circuit board 81 adjacent to the second direction X.

[0299] Multiple heat transfer plates 301 can be arranged spaced apart from each other along a third direction Y. For example, the direction in which the heat transfer plates 301 extend (a first direction Z or a second direction X) can be substantially orthogonal to the direction in which the multiple heat transfer plates 301 are arranged (a third direction Y).

[0300] However, on the other hand, the first direction Z, the second direction X, and the third direction Y mentioned above may not be orthogonal to each other.

[0301] A heat transfer flow path 302 can be formed between multiple heat transfer plates 301 spaced apart from each other. In other words, the heat transfer flow path 302 can be formed between a pair of adjacent heat transfer plates 301. Air can flow through the heat transfer flow path 302. That is, the multiple heat transfer plates 301 can exchange heat with the air flowing along the heat transfer flow path 302. The heat transfer flow path 302 can form part of the pipe flow path 430.

[0302] The heat transfer flow path 302 can extend along the first direction Z. For example, air flowing along the heat transfer flow path 302 can flow in the first direction Z and exchange heat with the multiple heat transfer plates 301. Air flowing into the heat transfer flow path 302 from one side of the radiator 300 in the first direction Z can flow in the first direction Z to exchange heat with the radiator 300, and escape from the radiator 300 at the other side of the radiator 300 in the first direction Z. For example, as Figure 9 As shown, air passing through the radiator 300 can flow from the lower end of the radiator 300 into the heat transfer flow path 302, flow upward (in the +Z direction) along the heat transfer flow path 302, exchange heat with multiple heat transfer plates 301, and escape from the heat transfer flow path 302 at the upper end of the radiator 300.

[0303] Thus, the radiator 300 may include a plurality of heat transfer plates 301, and the heat transfer area of ​​the radiator 300 may be widened according to the heat transfer flow path 302 formed between the plurality of heat transfer plates 301, thereby improving the heat dissipation efficiency.

[0304] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments. Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments. Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments. Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional perspective view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0305] refer to Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 (It can be called) Figures 10 to 13 The duct flow path 430 formed inside the duct 400 of the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a portion extending in a first direction Z and a portion extending in a second direction Y.

[0306] As described above, the first control box 800 can be positioned such that the first housing opening 810a and the first housing cover 820 face the front direction (+X direction) of the housing 100. Furthermore, the heat sink 300 can be mounted on the rear portion of the first control box 800.

[0307] Similarly, as described above, the second control box 900 can be positioned such that the second housing opening 910a and the second housing cover 920 face the right (+Y direction) of the housing 100. As shown, the second control box 900 can be positioned from the first control box 800 in the right (+Y direction), and the heat sink 300 can be positioned from the second control box 900 in the left (-Y direction). In this case, with the heat sink 300 positioned such that the heat transfer flow path 302 extends in the horizontal (Y direction), the second control box 900 and the heat sink 300 may need to be arranged with sufficient spacing between them in the horizontal (Y direction) direction to ensure space for airflow on one side of the heat transfer flow path 302. Therefore, the length of the machine chamber R2 in the horizontal (Y direction) direction may increase, and the overall product size may increase.

[0308] For the same reason, the radiator 300 can be extended such that the heat transfer flow path 302 extends in the vertical direction (Z direction). In other words, the radiator 300 can allow air to pass through it in the vertical direction (Z direction).

[0309] For various reasons, the radiator 300 can be positioned such that the heat transfer flow path 302 extends in the vertical direction (Z direction).

[0310] Each component of the pipe flow path 430 may have a predetermined width in the front-rear direction (X direction) within the pipe 400. As described above, the heat sink 300 may extend from the side adjacent to the first PCB 81. For example, each of the plurality of heat transfer plates 301 included in the heat sink 300 may extend from the side adjacent to the first PCB 81 in the rearward direction (-X direction). For example, each of the plurality of heat transfer plates 301 may extend in the front-rear direction (X direction). Therefore, the portion of the pipe flow path 430 that at least passes through the plurality of heat transfer plates 301 may have a width in the front-rear direction (X direction) that corresponds to or is greater than the width of each of the plurality of heat transfer plates 301.

[0311] Because the heat exchange chamber R1 and the mechanical chamber R2 are arranged in the horizontal direction (Y direction), air flowing through the radiator 300 in the vertical direction (Z direction) can flow in the horizontal direction (Y direction) and be discharged into the heat exchange chamber R1. Therefore, inside the duct 400, the duct flow path 430 may include a vertical flow path extending in the vertical direction (Z direction) to allow air to pass through the radiator 300 in the vertical direction (Z direction), and a horizontal flow path extending in the horizontal direction (Y direction) to allow air escaping from the radiator 300 to flow towards the heat exchange chamber R1 in the horizontal direction (Y direction).

[0312] In the following text, the direction in which the radiator 300 extends along the heat exchange chamber 302 may be referred to as the first direction Z. In other words, the radiator 300 may be positioned such that air passes through the radiator 300 in the first direction Z. The radiator 300 may extend along the first direction Z. The portion of the duct flow path 430 in which air passes through the radiator 300 in the first direction Z may extend along the first direction Z. As mentioned above, the first direction Z may include, but is not limited to, the vertical direction Z of the outdoor unit 10. The first direction in which the heat transfer flow path 302 of the radiator 300 extends may include a direction inclined relative to the vertical direction of the outdoor unit 10.

[0313] Furthermore, in the following text, the width direction of each component of the pipe flow path 430 inside the pipe 400 may be referred to as the second direction X. The second direction X may differ from the first direction Z through which air passes through the radiator 300. Moreover, the second direction X may be parallel to the direction in which the radiator 300 extends from the side adjacent to the first control box 800 (or the side adjacent to the first PCB 81). In other words, the second direction X may be parallel to the direction in which each of the plurality of heat transfer plates 301 extends from the side adjacent to the first control box 800 (or the side adjacent to the first PCB 81). For example, the second direction X may be orthogonal to the first direction Z through which air passes through the radiator 300. As described above, the second direction X may include, but is not limited to, the front-rear direction X of the outdoor unit 10. However, the second direction, as the width direction of the pipe flow path 430, may be a direction inclined relative to the front-rear direction X of the outdoor unit 10. Additionally, the second direction, as the width direction of the pipe flow path 430, may not be orthogonal to the first direction Z.

[0314] Additionally, in the following text, a portion of the duct flow path 430 extending along it such that the direction in which air escaping from the radiator 300 flows toward the heat exchange chamber R1 can be referred to as the third direction Y. In other words, a portion of the duct flow path 430 may extend along the first direction Z, and another portion of the duct flow path 430 may extend along the third direction Y. The third direction Y may be a direction different from the first direction Z and the second direction X. For example, the third direction Y may be a direction orthogonal to the first direction Z. Furthermore, for example, the third direction Y may be a direction orthogonal to the second direction X. As mentioned above, the third direction (Y direction) may include, but is not limited to, the horizontal direction Y of the outdoor unit 10. However, the third direction along which a portion of the duct flow path 430 extends such that air escaping from the radiator 300 flows toward the heat exchange chamber R1 may include a direction inclined relative to the horizontal direction of the outdoor unit 10. The third direction along which a portion of the duct flow path 430 extends such that air escaping from the radiator 300 flows toward the heat exchange chamber R1 may not be a direction orthogonal to the first direction Z and the second direction X.

[0315] The conduit 400 may include a first flow path 431 extending from the conduit inlet 410. The first flow path 431 may form part of the conduit flow path 430. More specifically, the first flow path 431 may extend from the conduit inlet 410 in a first direction Z. The first flow path 431 may allow air flowing in through the conduit inlet 410 to flow in the first direction Z. For example, the first flow path 431 may allow air flowing in through the conduit inlet 410 to flow upward (in the +Z direction).

[0316] A portion of the radiator 300 may be positioned within a first flow path 431. More specifically, a first portion 310 of the radiator 300 adjacent to the duct inlet 410 may be positioned within the first flow path 431. The first flow path 431 may extend along the first portion 310 of the radiator 300 in a first direction Z. The first flow path 431 may allow air flowing in through the duct inlet 410 to flow along the first portion 310 of the radiator 300.

[0317] For example, the first flow path 431 can extend from a position substantially parallel to one side 300a of the radiator 300 in the first direction Z. In this case, the side 300a of the radiator 300 in the first direction Z can be the side of the radiator 300 adjacent to the pipe inlet 410.

[0318] The conduit 400 may include a second flow path 432 connecting the first flow path 431 to the conduit outlet 420. The second flow path 432 may include a portion of the conduit flow path 430. For example, the second flow path 432 may be positioned relative to the first flow path 431 in a first direction Z. The second flow path 432 may extend toward the conduit outlet 420 along a third direction Y different from the first direction Z. The second flow path 432 may allow air delivered from the first flow path 431 to flow toward the conduit outlet 420 in the third direction Y. For example, the third direction Y along which the second flow path 432 extends may be substantially orthogonal to the first direction Z along which the first flow path 431 extends. For example, the second flow path 432 may extend toward the conduit outlet 420 along a horizontal direction Y, but is not limited thereto. However, the third direction Y along which the second flow path 432 extends may have an angle other than 90 degrees with the first direction Z along which the first flow path 431 extends.

[0319] A portion of the heat sink 300 may be positioned in the second flow path 432. More specifically, a second portion 320 of the heat sink 300 may be positioned in the second flow path 432. The second portion 320 of the heat sink 300 may include a portion extending from the first portion 310 in a first direction Z. For example, the second portion 320 of the heat sink 300 may include a portion extending upward (in the +Z direction) from the first portion 310.

[0320] With this structure, the air flowing into the pipe 400 through the pipe inlet 410 can flow along the first flow path 431 in the first direction Z, exchange heat with the first part 310 of the radiator 300, further flow along the second flow path 432 in the first direction Z, exchange heat with the second part 320 of the radiator 300, and then flow along the second flow path 432 in the third direction Y, and reach the pipe outlet 420.

[0321] Due to the excessive width of the first flow path 431 in the second direction X, air may not be able to adequately reach the second portion 320 of the heat sink 300. For example, because the width of the first flow path 431 in the second direction X is too large compared to the width of the heat sink 300 in the second direction X, air flowing into the first flow path 431 and along the heat transfer flow path 302 of the heat sink 300 may escape from the heat transfer flow path 302 before reaching the second portion 320 of the heat sink 300. Because multiple heat transfer plates 301 extend from the side adjacent to the first PCB 81 in the first direction X, while being spaced apart from each other along the third direction Y, the heat transfer flow path 302 may close at one side 300c in the second direction X adjacent to the first PCB 81 and open at the other side 300d in the opposite direction X. A portion of the air flowing along the heat transfer flow path 302 may escape from the heat transfer flow path 302 through the other side 300d in the second direction X. Therefore, if most of the air flowing along the heat transfer flow path 302 escapes from the heat transfer flow path 302 through the other side 300d in the second direction X without reaching the second part 320 of the radiator 300, heat exchange may not occur effectively in the second part 320 of the radiator 300, and the internal heat of the first control box 80 may not be effectively discharged.

[0322] To address this issue, the width of the first flow path 431 in the second direction X can be similar to, or at least not larger than, the width of the first portion 310 of the radiator 300 in the second direction X. Furthermore, the width of the first flow path 431 in the second direction X can substantially correspond to the width X of the first portion 310 of the radiator 300 in the second direction. Because the width of the first flow path 431 is relatively small, it can effectively prevent / suppress the escape of air flowing along the first portion 310 of the radiator 300 from the first portion 310. Additionally, with the small width of the first flow path 431, the air velocity flowing along the first flow path 431 can be increased, thus allowing the air to effectively reach the second portion 320 of the radiator 300.

[0323] The conduit 400 may include a cover wall 440. The cover wall 440 may cover a first portion 310 of the radiator 310. The cover wall 440 may cover the first portion 310 of the radiator 310 in a second direction X. The cover wall 440 may cover a first flow path 431 in the second direction X. The cover wall 440 may form the first flow path 431. The cover wall 440 may cover the other side 300d of the first portion 310 of the radiator 300 in the second direction X. The cover wall 440 may prevent and / or reduce air escape from the first portion 310 of the radiator 300 and guide air effectively to the second portion 320 of the radiator 300.

[0324] This structure of the first flow path 431 prevents / reduces the escape of air flowing along the radiator 300 from the first portion 310 and effectively directs it toward the second portion 320 of the radiator 300 along the first direction Z. In other words, this structure of the first flow path 431 allows air flowing into the radiator 300 on one side 300a in the first direction Z to flow effectively to the other side 300b of the radiator 300 in the first direction Z.

[0325] The width of the second flow path 432 in the second direction X may be greater than the width of the first flow path 431 in the second direction X. More specifically, the second flow path 432 may include a first portion 432a located on one side of the first flow path 431 in the first direction Z, and a second portion 432b located on one side of the first portion 432a in the second direction X. The first portion 432a of the second flow path 432 may extend from the first flow path 431 in the first direction Z, and the second portion 432b may extend from the first portion 432a in the second direction Z. The second portion 320 of the heat sink 300 may be positioned within the first portion 432a of the second flow path 432. The first portion 432a may be positioned in the first direction Z between the first flow path 431 and the third flow path 433, which will be described below.

[0326] In the first portion 432a of the second flow path 432, most of the air can flow along the first direction Z. However, due to the arrangement of the multiple heat transfer plates 301, it is almost impossible for the air to flow along the third direction Y. Therefore, the second flow path 432 may include a second portion 432b, which has a wider width in the second direction X than the first flow path 431, and the heat transfer plates 301 are not positioned in the second portion 432b, allowing the air to flow in the third direction Y. Thus, the air can flow effectively towards the pipe outlet 420 in the third direction Y. That is, in the first portion 432a of the second flow path 432, heat exchange can occur between the air and the radiator 300, and in the second portion 432b of the second flow path 432, the air escaping from the radiator 300 can flow towards the pipe outlet 420.

[0327] In addition, because the second flow path 432 has a larger width in the second direction X than the first flow path 431, the second flow path 432 can ensure a large flow path area, reduce air flow resistance, and increase air velocity.

[0328] The conduit 400 may include an extension wall 450. The extension wall 450 may extend from the cover wall 440. The extension wall 450 may extend in a direction different from the direction in which the cover wall 440 extends.

[0329] For example, the extension wall 450 may extend in the second direction X from the end of the cover wall 440 opposite to the pipe inlet 410. That is, as shown, the extension wall 450 may extend from the upper end of the cover wall 440 in the rearward direction (-X direction).

[0330] The second flow path 432 can be positioned relative to the extension wall 450 in a first direction (Z direction). For example, a second portion 432b of the second flow path 432 can be positioned relative to the extension wall 450 in the first direction (Z direction). For example, as shown, the extension wall 450 can form the lower surface of the second portion 432b of the second flow path 432.

[0331] This structure of the first flow path 431 and the second flow path 432 can improve the heat transfer efficiency between the radiator 300 and the air, and can also improve the heat dissipation efficiency of the radiator 300.

[0332] For example, the length of the first flow path 431 in the first direction Z can be longer than the length of the second flow path 432 in the first direction Z.

[0333] The first flow path 431 may include a first portion 431a adjacent to the pipe inlet 410 and a second portion 431b located on one side of the first portion 431a in a first direction Z. The second portion 431b of the first flow path 431 may be located between the first portion 431a and the second flow path 432. The second portion 431b of the first flow path 431 may extend from the first portion 431a toward the second flow path 432.

[0334] In this case, the width of the second portion 431b of the first flow path 431 in the second direction X can increase from the first portion 431a toward the second flow path 432. However, the first portion 431a of the first flow path 431 can have a substantially constant width in the second direction X.

[0335] Corresponding to the shape of the first flow path 431, the cover wall 440 may include an inclined portion 442 that extends towards the second flow path 432 in a first direction Z while moving further away from the radiator 300 in a second direction X. The inclined portion 442 may correspond to a second portion 431b of the first flow path 431. The inclined portion 442 may guide airflow such that air flowing along the first flow path 431 flows effectively toward the second portion 432b of the second flow path 432. Conversely, the cover wall 440 may include a flat portion 441 that extends substantially parallel to the first direction Z. For example, the inclined portion 442 may extend in a direction inclined from the flat portion 441 in the first direction Z.

[0336] With this structure of the first flow path 431, air flowing along the first flow path 431 can be guided to the second portion 432b of the second flow path 432. Furthermore, with this structure of the first flow path 431, air can flow smoothly throughout the entire pipe flow path 430, but is not limited thereto.

[0337] However, the first flow path 431 can have a constant width.

[0338] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the conduit 400 may further include a third flow path 433. The third flow path 433 may include a portion of the conduit flow path 430. The third flow path 433 may be provided from the side 300b of the radiator 300 opposite to the conduit inlet 410 in a first direction Z. The third flow path 433 may be formed to the side of the second portion 320 of the radiator 300 in the first direction Z (the side in the upward direction (+Z direction) as shown). The third flow path 433 may be positioned relative to the first portion 432a of the second flow path 432 in the first direction Z. The third flow path 433 may extend from the first portion 432a of the second flow path 432 in the first direction Z.

[0339] Because a third flow path 433 is formed, airflow resistance can be prevented / reduced on the other side 300b of the radiator 300 in the first direction Z, and the air passing through the radiator 300 in the first direction Z can flow more smoothly.

[0340] For example, the length of the first flow path 431 in the first direction Z can be longer than the length of the third flow path 433 in the first direction Z. And, for example, the length of the second flow path 432 in the first direction Z can be longer than the length of the third flow path 433 in the first direction Z.

[0341] The third flow path 433 can extend along a third direction in the Y direction. More specifically, the third flow path 433 can extend along a third direction in the Y direction toward the pipe outlet 420. With this configuration, at least a portion of the air escaping from the radiator 300 in the first direction Z can flow along the third flow path 433 toward the pipe outlet 420.

[0342] The width of the third flow path 433 in the second direction X can be smaller than the width of the second flow path 432 in the second direction X. Therefore, unnecessary air diffusion can be prevented / reduced and air can flow in the third flow path 433 positioned relative to the radiator 300 in the third direction Z.

[0343] The conduit 400 may include a fourth flow path 434 extending from the second control box 900 toward the conduit outlet 420, as will be described below. The fourth flow path 434 may be separated from the second flow paths 432 and 433. In this case, at least a portion of the fourth flow path 434 may be positioned relative to the second flow path 432 in a first direction Z and relative to the third flow path 433 in a second direction X. As shown, at least a portion 434b of the fourth flow path 434 may be positioned relative to a second portion 432b of the second flow path 432 in an upward direction (+Z) and relative to the third flow path 433 in a backward direction (-X). With this configuration, the width of the third flow path 433 in the second direction X can be smaller than the width of the second flow path 432 in the second direction X.

[0344] The third flow path 433 can be connected to the second flow path 432. In this case, a portion of the air in the third flow path 433 can flow toward the second flow path 432. Therefore, a portion of the air flowing from the radiator 300 into the third flow path 433 can flow back into the second flow path 432 and along the second flow path 432, while another portion of the air can flow along the third flow path 433.

[0345] The conduit 400 may include a flow path guide 461 that guides air in the third flow path 433 from the third flow path 433 toward the second flow path 432. The flow path guide 461 may be provided on one side of the third flow path 433. For example, the flow path guide 461 may be provided on one side of the third flow path 433 in the second direction X. As shown, the flow path guide 461 may be provided at the rear portion (-X direction) of the third flow path 433.

[0346] For example, the flow path guide 461 can be tilted such that it becomes closer to the second flow path 432 in the first direction Z as it moves further away from the third flow path 433 in the second direction X. As shown, the flow path guide 461 can be tilted such that it extends in the rear direction (-X) toward the downward direction (-Z).

[0347] For example, the flow path guide 461 may include at least a portion of the flow path partition wall 460, which will be described below.

[0348] With this structure, the width of the third flow path 433 in the second direction X can increase as the third flow path 433 becomes closer to the second flow path 432 in the first direction Z. As shown in the figure, the width of the third flow path 433 in the front-back direction X can be larger at the lower position (-Z direction) of the third flow path 433.

[0349] With this structure, the internal air of the third flow path 433 can flow effectively to the second flow path 432.

[0350] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the conduit 400 may further include a connecting flow path 435. The connecting flow path 435 may include a portion of the conduit flow path 430. The connecting flow path 435 may connect a second flow path 432 to the conduit outlet 420. Furthermore, the connecting flow path 435 may connect a third flow path 433 to the conduit outlet 420. For example, the conduit outlet 420 may be provided at one end of the connecting flow path 435 in a third-direction Y-axis.

[0351] For example, the width of the connecting flow path 435 in the first direction Z can be greater than the width of the second flow path 432 in the first direction Z. For example, the width of the connecting flow path 435 in the first direction Z can be greater than the width of the third flow path 433 in the first direction Z.

[0352] For example, the width of the connecting flow path 435 in the second direction X can be greater than the width of the first flow path 341 in the second direction X. For example, the width of the connecting flow path 435 in the second direction X can be greater than the width of the third flow path 433 in the second direction X. For example, the width of the connecting flow path 435 in the second direction X can substantially correspond to the width of the second flow path 432 in the second direction X.

[0353] For example, the connecting flow path 435 can be formed inside the connecting pipe connection portion 403 described above. The connecting pipe connection portion 403 can be provided along the periphery of the pipe flow path 430.

[0354] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0355] refer to Figure 14 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the duct 400 of the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1 may include a fourth flow path 434. The fourth flow path 434 may be formed inside the duct 400. The fourth flow path 434 may be covered by the duct 400. The fourth flow path 434 may include a portion of the duct flow path 430.

[0356] For example, the fourth flow path 434 can be connected to the second control box 900. The fourth flow path 434 can connect the second control box 900 to the pipe outlet 420. The fourth flow path 434 extends from the second control box 900 toward the pipe outlet 420. The fourth flow path 434 can discharge heat generated inside the second control box 900 through the pipe outlet 420. The fourth flow path 434 can discharge refrigerant gas flowing into the second housing 910 through the pipe outlet 420.

[0357] For example, the fourth flow path 434 can be connected to the second control box 900 through the second pipe connection hole 913.

[0358] For example, the fourth flow path 434 can be connected to the first control box 800. The fourth flow path 434 can be connected to the interior of the first housing 810. The fourth flow path 434 can connect the interior of the first housing 810 to the pipe outlet 420. The fourth flow path 434 can discharge heat generated in the first control box 800 through the pipe outlet 420. The fourth flow path 434 can discharge refrigerant gas flowing into the first housing 810 through the pipe outlet 420.

[0359] For example, the fourth flow path 434 can be connected to the first control box 800 through the first pipe connection hole 813 and the first control box connection hole 401a.

[0360] The fourth flow path 434 may be separated from the first flow path 431, the second flow path 432, and the third flow path 433 described above. In particular, the conduit 400 may include a flow path partition wall 460 that separates the fourth flow path 434 from the second flow path 432 and the third flow path 433.

[0361] For example, the fourth flow path 434 may include a first portion 434a extending along a first direction Z, and a second portion 434b extending from the first portion 434a along a third direction Y. For example, the second portion 434b of the fourth flow path 434 may extend from one end of the first portion 434a of the fourth flow path 434 in the first direction Z. As shown, the second portion 434b of the fourth flow path 434 may extend from the upper end of the first portion 434a of the fourth flow path 434.

[0362] In this configuration, the second portion 434b of the fourth flow path 434 can be positioned relative to the second flow path 432 in the first direction Z. Furthermore, the second portion 434b of the fourth flow path 434 can be positioned relative to the third flow path 433 in the second direction X. The second portion 434b of the fourth flow path 434 can flow parallel to the second flow path 432 and the third flow path 433 along the third direction Y.

[0363] Figure 15 This is a perspective view showing various components of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments, including a control box, ducts, and partitions.

[0364] refer to Figure 15 In the following description of some components of the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, references are made to... Figures 1 to 14 Components of the various example embodiments described will be assigned the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated here.

[0365] refer to Figure 15 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1 may include a duct 400-1. Figure 15 The pipe 400-1 shown can have the same Figures 1 to 14 The structure and characteristics of the pipe 400 shown are so detailed that they will not be repeated here.

[0366] In this case, according to Figure 15 In the illustrated embodiment, pipe 400-1 can be directly connected to partition 16. That is, as... Figure 15 As shown, the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1 may not include the connecting pipe 500.

[0367] Pipe 400-1 can be directly connected to heat exchange chamber R1 through partition opening 16a, and the air flowing along the pipe flow path 430-1 inside pipe 400-1 can be directly discharged into heat exchange chamber R1 through pipe outlet 420-1 of pipe 400-1.

[0368] For example, pipe 400-1 may include a partition connection portion 403 connected to partition 16. The partition connection portion 403-1 may penetrate partition opening 16a. For example, pipe outlet 420-1 may be formed inside partition connection portion 403.

[0369] For example, the outdoor unit 10 may include a sealing member 600-1 for the gap between the sealing partition connection portion 403 and the partition opening 16a.

[0370] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating examples of printed circuit boards housed in the control box of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments. Figure 17 This illustrates the through measurement according to various embodiments. Figure 16 The table shows the experimental results obtained based on the temperature of the electronic components.

[0371] The following will refer to Figure 16 and Figure 17The heat dissipation efficiency according to the shape of the pipe in various embodiments is described in more detail.

[0372] refer to Figure 16 Electronic components P1, P2, and P3 (also referred to as first electronic component P1, second electronic component P2, and third electronic component P3) can be mounted on a first PCB 81 included in the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1. The first PCB 81 on which electronic components P1, P2, and P3 are mounted can be housed in a first control box 800.

[0373] For example, the first electronic component P1 may be mounted on the first PCB 81. For example, the first electronic component P1 may include an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT).

[0374] The second electronic component P2 can be mounted on the first PCB 81. For example, the second electronic component P2 may include an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT).

[0375] The third electronic component P3 can be mounted on the first PCB 81. For example, the third electronic component P3 may include an intelligent power module (IPM).

[0376] For example, the first PCB 81, on which the first electronic component P1, the second electronic component P2 and the third electronic component P3 are mounted, can be configured with the power supply board of the outdoor unit 10.

[0377] However, the types of electronic components P1, P2 and P3 mounted on the first PCB 81 are not limited to this, and the first PCB 81 may include various types of PCB assemblies.

[0378] For example, the first electronic component P1, the second electronic component P2, and the third electronic component P3 can be arranged along the first direction Z. Figure 16 As shown, the first electronic component P1 can be positioned above the second electronic component P2 (in the +Z direction), and the second electronic component P2 can be positioned above the third electronic component P3 (in the +Z direction).

[0379] Reference Figure 17 Three examples are described by measuring the shape of the pipe 400 according to this disclosure (e.g., Figure 17 The experimental results were obtained based on the temperatures T1 of the first electronic component P1, T2 of the second electronic component P2, and T3 of the third electronic component P3 in "Examples of Pipe Shape #1", "Examples of Pipe Shape #2", and "Examples of Pipe Shape #3"). The structure of the pipe flow path 430 can also vary according to the examples of the shape of the pipe 400. In the examples, it is assumed that the heat transfer flow path 302 of the radiator 300 extends along the first direction Z inside the pipe 400.

[0380] As a first example (pipe shape example #1, hereinafter referred to as "pipe 400 of the first shape"), the pipe 400 of the first shape may include a flow path extending from the pipe inlet 410 in a first direction Z and a flow path extending toward the pipe outlet 420 in a third direction Y. Inside the pipe 400 of the first shape, air flowing into the pipe inlet 410 may flow along the first direction Z, exchange heat with the radiator 300, then escape from the radiator 300, flow along the third direction Y, and be discharged into the heat exchange chamber R1 through the pipe outlet 420.

[0381] The first-shaped pipe 400 may not include a first flow path 431 (reference) for forming a relatively narrow width in the second direction X. Figure 10 ) Cover wall 440 (reference) Figure 10 In other words, the first-shaped duct 400 may not include structures for preventing / reducing air escape from the first part 310 of the radiator 300.

[0382] In this case, refer to Figure 17 In the example using the first-shaped pipe 400, the temperature T3 of the third electronic component P3 was measured as a relatively low 76.4 degrees Celsius, while the temperatures T1 of the first electronic component P1 and T2 of the second electronic component P2 were measured as relatively high 86.1 degrees Celsius and 85.0 degrees Celsius, respectively. Therefore, it can be confirmed that in the example using the first-shaped pipe 400, the heat dissipation efficiency of the upper portion of the heat sink 300 is relatively lower than that of the lower portion.

[0383] As a second example (pipe shape example #2, hereinafter referred to as "pipe 400 of the second shape"), the pipe 400 of the second shape may include a first flow path 431 and a second flow path 432. A first portion 310 of the radiator 300 is positioned in the first flow path 431, and the first flow path 431 extends from the pipe inlet 410 in a first direction Z. A second portion 320 of the radiator 300 is positioned in the second flow path 432, and the second flow path 432 is positioned relative to the first flow path 431 in the first direction Z (more specifically, the upward direction (+Z direction)) and extends along a third direction Y toward the pipe outlet 420. In this case, compared with reference to... Figures 1 to 15 Similarly, in the described structure of pipe 400, the width of the first flow path 431 in the second direction X can be smaller than the width of the second flow path 432 in the second direction X. However, compared with the reference... Figures 1 to 15The structure of the pipe 400 described is different. The second-shaped pipe 400 may not include the structure of the third flow path 433 formed on one side of the second part 320 of the radiator 300 in the first direction Z. In other words, in the second-shaped pipe 400, a flow path may not be formed in the other end 300b of the radiator 300 opposite to the end 300a of the radiator 410 facing the pipe inlet 410.

[0384] Inside the second-shaped pipe 400, air flowing into the pipe inlet 410 can flow along a first flow path 431 while exchanging heat with the first portion 310 of the radiator 300. A portion of the air can escape from the radiator 300 and flow along a second flow path 432 in a third-direction Y direction, while another portion of the air can flow to a third flow path 433 and then in a third-direction Y direction. The air flowing along the second flow path 432 or the third flow path 433 can be discharged into the heat exchange chamber R1 through the pipe outlet 420.

[0385] In this case, refer to Figure 17 Compared to the example using the first-shaped pipe 40, in the example using the second-shaped pipe 400, the temperatures T1 of the first electronic component P1 and T2 of the second electronic component P2 were measured to be relatively low at 79.3 degrees Celsius and 78.2 degrees Celsius, respectively. Therefore, it can be confirmed that the heat dissipation efficiency of the upper portion of the heat sink 300 is improved in the example using the second-shaped pipe 400 compared to the example using the first-shaped pipe 40.

[0386] However, reference Figure 17 In the example using the second-shaped pipe 400, the temperature T3 of the third electronic component P3 was measured to be a relatively high temperature of 80.8 degrees Celsius. Therefore, it can be confirmed that in the example using the second-shaped pipe 400, although air flows smoothly from the first portion 310 to the second portion 310 of the heat sink 300, the airflow escaping from the first portion 310 to the outside of the heat sink 300 is blocked, thus the heat dissipation efficiency of the lower portion of the heat sink 300 is relatively reduced.

[0387] As a third example (pipe shape example #3, referred to below as "pipe 400 of the third shape"), pipe 400 of the third shape can have the same characteristics as the reference above. Figures 1 to 15 The pipe 400 described has the same structure. That is, the pipe 400 of the third shape may include a first flow path 431, a second flow path 432 and a third flow path 433.

[0388] In this case, refer to Figure 17Compared to the example using the second-shaped conduit 400, in the example using the third-shaped conduit 400, the temperature T3 of the third electronic component P3 was measured to be a relatively low 77.1 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, compared to the example using the second-shaped conduit 400, in the example using the third-shaped conduit 400, the temperatures T1 of the first electronic component P1 and T2 of the second electronic component P2 were measured to be relatively low 76.6 degrees Celsius and 75.1 degrees Celsius, respectively. Therefore, it can be confirmed that the overall heat dissipation efficiency of the heat sink 300 is further improved in the example using the third-shaped conduit 400 compared to the example using the second-shaped conduit 400.

[0389] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view showing various components of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0390] Reference Figure 18 In the following description of the various components included in the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the reference is made... Figures 1 to 15 Components that are described in the same way will be assigned the same reference numerals, and their descriptions need not be repeated here.

[0391] refer to Figure 18 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 1 may include a radiator 300-1 for dissipating heat generated in the first control box 800. For example, the radiator 300-1 may dissipate heat generated from the first PCB 81 and electronic components mounted thereon.

[0392] Radiator 300-1 can be positioned inside pipe 400. Radiator 300-1 can exchange heat with air flowing along the interior of pipe 400. Radiator 300-1 can also exchange heat with air flowing from pipe inlet 410 towards pipe outlet 420. Radiator 300-1 can dissipate heat transferred from the first control box 800 to the air inside pipe 400, and within pipe 400, air can flow from pipe inlet 410 to pipe outlet 420 and be discharged into heat exchange chamber R1.

[0393] As described above, according to the embodiments of this disclosure, air can flow into the heat transfer flow path of the radiator 300-1 in the first direction Z. The air can exchange heat with the radiator 300-1, and the heat-exchanged air can flow in the third direction Y and be discharged into the heat exchange chamber R1.

[0394] In other words, external air in pipe 400 can flow along the first direction Z and enter the interior of pipe 400 through pipe inlet 410 to reach radiator 300-1. The air can exchange heat with radiator 300-1, and the heat-exchanged air can flow along the third direction Y and be discharged into heat exchange chamber R1 through pipe outlet 420.

[0395] According to embodiments of this disclosure, such as Figure 18 As shown, the radiator 300-1 may include a first portion 310-1 extending along a first direction Z and a second portion 330-1 extending along a third direction Y. The first portion 310-1 of the radiator 300-1 may extend along the first direction Z from one end 300a-1 adjacent to the pipe inlet 410. The second portion 330-1 of the radiator 300-1 may extend along the third direction Y from the other end 300b-1 adjacent to the pipe outlet 420.

[0396] In the first portion 310-1 of the radiator 300-1, air can flow along the first direction Z. Air flowing from one end 300a-1 of the radiator 300-1 to the first portion 310-1 can flow along the first direction Z. The heat transfer path through which the air flows in the first portion 310-1 of the radiator 300-1 can extend along the first direction Z.

[0397] In the second part 330-1 of radiator 300-1, air can flow along a third direction (Y). In the second part 330-1 of radiator 300-1, air can flow along a third direction (Y) and be discharged through the other end 300b-1 of radiator 300-1. The heat transfer flow path through which the air flows in the second part 330-1 of radiator 300-1 can extend along a third direction (Y).

[0398] The radiator 300-1 may include a connecting portion 320-1 that connects the first portion 310-1 to the second portion 330-1. The radiator 300-1 can exchange heat with air that sequentially passes through the first portion 310-1, the connecting portion 320-1, and the second portion 330-1.

[0399] The connecting portion 320-1 of the radiator 300-1 can extend in a direction different from the extending direction of the first portion 310-1 and the second portion 330-1. That is, the connecting portion 320-1 of the radiator 300-1 can change the airflow direction from the first direction Z to the third direction Y.

[0400] For example, the connecting portion 320-1 of the radiator 300-1 may have a curved shape to connect the first portion 310-1 to the second portion 330-1. For example, the connecting portion 320-1 of the radiator 300-1 may have a curved shape.

[0401] The radiator 300-1 may include multiple heat transfer plates. These heat transfer plates may be arranged in a spaced-apart manner. A heat transfer flow path through which air flows may be formed between a pair of adjacent heat transfer plates.

[0402] Each heat transfer plate in the heat transfer plate of the radiator 300-1 may include a portion extending in a first direction Z and a portion extending in a third direction Y. Furthermore, each heat transfer plate in the heat transfer plate of the radiator 300-1 may include a connecting portion that connects the portion extending in the first direction Z to the portion extending in the third direction Y and extends in a direction different from the first direction Z and the third direction Y.

[0403] Similarly, the heat transfer flow path of the radiator 300-1 may include a portion extending in the first direction Z and a portion extending in the third direction Y. Additionally, the heat transfer flow path of the radiator 300-1 may include a connecting portion that connects the portion extending in the first direction Z to the portion extending in the third direction Y and extends in a direction different from both the first direction Z and the third direction Z. In the connecting portion of the heat transfer flow path, the airflow direction can be changed from the first direction Z to the third direction Y.

[0404] Figure 18 An example is shown where the length of the first portion 310-1 of the heat sink 300-1 in the first direction Z is shorter than the length of the second portion 330-1 of the heat sink 300-1 in the third direction Y. However, the length of the first portion 310-1 in the first direction Z may be longer than the length of the second portion 330-1 in the third direction Y, or the length of the first portion 310-1 in the first direction Z may be substantially equal to the length of the second portion 330-1 in the third direction Y.

[0405] like Figure 18 As shown, in order for the heat sink 300-1 to cover a wide area of ​​the rear of the first control box 800 in the -X direction, the spacing between the heat transfer plates in the connecting portion 320-1 of the heat sink 300-1 can be wider than the spacing between the heat transfer plates in other portions, but is not limited thereto. However, multiple heat transfer plates can be arranged at constant intervals throughout the heat sink 300-1.

[0406] The radiator 300-1 can have various shapes depending on the shape of the first control box 800, the shape of the pipe 400, the internal structure of the machine room R2, etc.

[0407] With this configuration, air that has exchanged heat with radiator 300-1 can be discharged into heat exchange chamber R1, and air can flow into radiator 300 in the first direction Z. Therefore, the width of outdoor unit 10 in the third direction Y can be reduced.

[0408] By applying the shape of the radiator 300-1 according to the embodiments of this disclosure, the pipe 400 may not have the complex structure forming the first flow path 431, the second flow path 432, and the third flow path 433 as in the above embodiments, and the flow path structure for discharging heat to the heat exchange chamber R1 can be further simplified. In addition, with the simplified structure of the pipe 400, the machine room R2 can ensure a wider free space.

[0409] Additionally, the heat sink according to the examples of this disclosure can be positioned such that the heat transfer flow path extends in the horizontal direction Y. For example, the heat sink may include a plurality of heat transfer plates extending from the side of the first PCB 81 in the second direction X, the plurality of heat transfer plates may be arranged along the first direction Z, and a heat transfer flow path extending in the third direction Y may be formed between the plurality of heat transfer plates. Air may flow in the third direction Y, exchange heat with the heat sink, and then be discharged into the heat exchange chamber R1. In this case, space may be provided between the heat sink and the second control box 900 through which air flows into the heat sink.

[0410] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a housing including a heat exchange chamber and a mechanical chamber; a partition configured to separate the heat exchange chamber from the mechanical chamber and including a partition opening; a fan positioned in the heat exchange chamber; a control box positioned in the mechanical chamber and configured to house a printed circuit board; a radiator configured to discharge heat generated in the printed circuit board to the outside of the control box and extending along a first direction; and a duct configured to discharge heat transferred from the radiator to the heat exchange chamber. At least a portion of the radiator may be positioned inside the duct. The duct may include a duct inlet configured to introduce / move air into / from the interior of the duct, a duct outlet connected to the partition opening and configured to discharge air to the heat exchange chamber, a first flow path extending from the duct inlet along a first portion of the radiator in a first direction, and a second flow path connecting the first flow path to the duct outlet, wherein the first portion of the radiator is adjacent to the duct inlet, and a second portion of the radiator extending from the first portion of the radiator in the first direction is positioned in the second flow path. The width of the second flow path in a second direction different from the first direction may be greater than the width of the first flow path in the second direction.

[0411] The second flow path can extend toward the pipe outlet along a third direction different from the first and second directions.

[0412] The first, second, and third directions can be orthogonal to each other.

[0413] The conduit may further include a third flow path, which is provided from the side of the radiator opposite to the conduit inlet in the first direction.

[0414] The width of the third flow path in the second direction can be smaller than the width of the second flow path in the second direction.

[0415] The second flow path may include a first portion positioned in a first direction between the first flow path and the third flow path, and a second portion positioned on one side of the first portion of the second flow path in a second direction.

[0416] The conduit may further include a flow path guide configured to guide air within the third flow path from the third flow path toward the second flow path.

[0417] The flow path guide can be tilted to get closer to the second flow path in the first direction and further away from the third flow path in the second direction.

[0418] The third flow path can extend upward toward the pipe outlet from a third party, different from the first and second directions.

[0419] The printed circuit board may include a first printed circuit board, the control box may include a first control box, and the outdoor unit of the air conditioner may further include a second control box, the second control box being positioned in the machine room and configured to house the second printed circuit board. The duct may further include a fourth flow path extending from the second control box toward the duct outlet and separated from the second flow path and the third flow path. At least a portion of the fourth flow path may be positioned relative to the second flow path in a first direction and relative to the third flow path in a second direction.

[0420] The conduit may be further included in a cover wall that covers the first part of the radiator in the second direction.

[0421] The cover wall may include an inclined portion that extends to move closer to the second flow path in a first direction from the first flow path while moving further away from the radiator in a second direction.

[0422] The conduit may further include an extension wall that extends in a second direction from the end of the cover wall opposite to the conduit inlet. The second flow path may be positioned relative to the extension wall in the first direction.

[0423] The conduit may further include a connecting flow path that connects the second flow path to the conduit outlet. The width of the connecting flow path in the first direction may be greater than the width of the second flow path in the first direction.

[0424] The heat sink may include multiple heat transfer plates extending in a second direction from a side adjacent to the printed circuit board. The multiple heat transfer plates may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along a third direction different from the first and second directions. A second flow path may extend along this third direction toward a pipe outlet.

[0425] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a heat exchange chamber including a heat exchanger; a machinery chamber separated from the heat exchange chamber; a control box located in the machinery chamber and configured to house electronic components; a radiator mounted in the control box; and a conduit including a conduit inlet connected to the machinery chamber, a conduit outlet connected to the heat exchange chamber, and a conduit flow path located between the conduit inlet and the conduit outlet and passing through the radiator. The conduit flow path may include a first flow path and a second flow path, the first flow path extending from the conduit inlet in a first direction and passing through a portion of the radiator adjacent to the conduit inlet, and the second flow path positioned relative to the first flow path in the first direction and passing through another portion of the radiator. The width of the second flow path in a second direction different from the first direction may be greater than the width of the first flow path in the second direction, and the second flow path may extend toward the conduit outlet along a third direction different from the first and second directions.

[0426] The duct flow path may further include a third flow path that extends from at least a portion of the second flow path in the opposite direction to the first flow path, and the other portion of the radiator is located within the at least a portion of the second flow path.

[0427] The width of the third flow path in the second direction can increase toward the second flow path in the first direction.

[0428] The first flow path may further include a first portion adjacent to the pipe inlet and a second portion positioned between the first portion and the second flow path, wherein the width of the second portion in the second direction may increase from the first portion toward the second flow path.

[0429] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a housing including a heat exchange chamber and a machine chamber; a partition separating the heat exchange chamber and the machine chamber; a fan positioned in the heat exchange chamber; a control box positioned in the machine chamber and configured to house a printed circuit board; a plurality of heat transfer plates extending from a side adjacent to the printed circuit board in a first direction and arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a second direction different from the first direction; and a duct positioned in the machine chamber and connected to the heat exchange chamber via the partition. The duct may include a duct inlet, a duct outlet, and a duct flow path, wherein air is configured to flow into the interior of the duct through the duct inlet, the duct outlet is connected to the partition and configured to discharge air to the heat exchange chamber, and the duct flow path passes through the plurality of heat transfer plates between the duct inlet and the duct outlet. The duct flow path may include a first flow path and a second flow path, the first flow path extending upward from the duct inlet along a portion of the plurality of heat transfer plates adjacent to the duct inlet in a third direction different from the first and second directions, and the second flow path extending along the second direction such that air from the plurality of heat transfer plates is configured to flow toward the duct outlet.

[0430] According to this disclosure, the accessibility of the control box can be improved by the arrangement of the control box of the outdoor unit of the air conditioner.

[0431] According to this disclosure, the airtightness of the control box can be improved by arranging the outdoor unit of the air conditioner.

[0432] According to this disclosure, the outdoor unit of an air conditioner can improve heat dissipation efficiency by improving the shape and structure (e.g., width) of the duct flow path.

[0433] According to this disclosure, the outdoor unit of an air conditioner can improve the internal space efficiency of the product and achieve miniaturization of the product and control box by adjusting the location of the radiator and the shape of the duct flow path.

[0434] However, the effects of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains from the following description.

[0435] While this disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that these exemplary embodiments are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Those skilled in the art will further understand that various modifications can be made without departing from the true spirit and full scope of this disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents. It will also be understood that any embodiment described herein may be used in conjunction with any other embodiment described herein.

Claims

1. An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, comprising: a housing including a heat exchange chamber and a mechanical chamber; a partition configured to separate the heat exchange chamber from the mechanical chamber and including a partition opening; a fan positioned in the heat exchange chamber; a control box positioned in the mechanical chamber and configured to house a printed circuit board; a heat sink configured to discharge heat generated in the printed circuit board to an outside of the control box and extending in a first direction; and a duct configured to discharge heat transferred from the heat sink to the heat exchange chamber, wherein at least a portion of the heat sink is positioned inside the duct, the duct includes: a duct inlet configured to introduce air into an inside of the duct; a duct outlet connected to the partition opening and configured to discharge air to the heat exchange chamber; a first flow path extending from the duct inlet in the first direction along a first portion of the heat sink adjacent to the duct inlet; and a second flow path connecting the first flow path to the duct outlet, wherein a second portion of the heat sink is positioned in the second flow path and extends from the first portion of the heat sink in the first direction, and a width of the second flow path in a second direction different from the first direction is greater than a width of the first flow path in the second direction. the second flow path extends in a third direction different from the first and second directions toward the duct outlet.

2. The outdoor unit according to claim 1, wherein, the first, second, and third directions are orthogonal to each other.

3. The outdoor unit according to claim 2, wherein the duct further includes a third flow path positioned in the first direction from a side of the heat sink opposite to the duct inlet.

4. The outdoor unit of claim 1, wherein, a width of the third flow path in the second direction is less than the width of the second flow path in the second direction.

5. The outdoor unit according to claim 4, wherein the second flow path includes:

6. The outdoor unit of claim 4, wherein, a first portion positioned in the first direction between the first flow path and the third flow path; and a second portion positioned to a side of the first portion of the second flow path in the second direction. the duct further includes a flow path guide configured to guide air inside the third flow path to flow from the third flow path toward the second flow path.

7. The outdoor unit according to claim 4, wherein, the flow path guide is inclined to be closer to the second flow path in the first direction and farther from the third flow path in the second direction.

8. The outdoor unit according to claim 7, wherein the third flow path extends in a third direction different from the first and second directions toward the duct outlet. 9.The outdoor unit according to claim 4, wherein 10.The outdoor unit of claim 4, wherein the printed circuit board includes a first printed circuit board, the control box includes a first control box, the outdoor unit of the air conditioner further includes a second control box positioned in the mechanical chamber and configured to house a second printed circuit board, ​ The duct further includes a fourth flow path extending from the second control box toward the duct outlet and separated from the second flow path and the third flow path, and At least a portion of the fourth flow path is positioned in the first direction relative to the second flow path and in the second direction relative to the third flow path. 11.The outdoor unit according to claim 1, wherein The duct further includes a cover wall covering the first portion of the heat sink in the second direction. 12.The outdoor unit according to claim 11, wherein The cover wall includes an inclined portion extending to be closer to the second flow path in the first direction while being farther away from the heat sink in the second direction. 13.The outdoor unit according to claim 11, wherein The duct further includes an extension wall extending from an end of the cover wall opposite the duct inlet in the second direction, and The second flow path is positioned in the first direction relative to the extension wall. 14.The outdoor unit according to claim 1, wherein The duct further includes a connection flow path connecting the second flow path to the duct outlet, and A width of the connection flow path in the first direction is greater than a width of the second flow path in the first direction.

15. The outdoor unit of claim 1, wherein, The heat sink includes a plurality of heat transfer plates extending in the second direction from a side adjacent to the printed circuit board, The plurality of heat transfer plates are arranged to be spaced apart from each other along a third direction different from the first direction and the second direction, and The second flow path extends toward the duct outlet along the third direction.

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