Refrigerant flow path module and heat source unit

Abstract

The purpose of the present disclosure is to reduce the size and cost of devices such as a heat source unit housing a shut-off valve. A refrigerant flow path module includes: a flow path main body (31); wherein a first connection port (58a, 57a), a second connection port (52b3), a third connection port (51b3) and a fourth connection port (53b3) to which a first refrigerant pipe (13), a second refrigerant pipe (52a), a third refrigerant pipe (51a) and a fourth refrigerant pipe (53a) are connected, and a first refrigerant flow path (56, 58, 55, 57) communicating with the first connection port (58a, 57a), the second connection port (52b3), the third connection port (51b3) and the fourth connection port (53b3) are formed. A second refrigerant flow path (52b), a third refrigerant flow path (51b), and a fourth refrigerant flow path (53b); and a shutoff valve body (24a, 23a) disposed inside the flow path main body (31) and closing the first refrigerant flow path (56, 58, 55, 57), the shutoff valve body (24a, 23a) being movable between a first position at which the first refrigerant flow path (56, 58, 55, 57) is closed and a second position at which the first refrigerant flow path (56, 58, 55, 57) is opened.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a refrigerant flow path module and a heat source unit. Background Technology

[0002] Air conditioners that regulate indoor temperature and humidity include those comprising an outdoor unit (heat source unit) and an indoor unit (utilization unit) (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The outdoor unit houses a compressor, a four-way reversing valve (flow path switching valve), an outdoor heat exchanger, a shut-off valve, etc., while the indoor unit houses an indoor heat exchanger. These devices are connected via refrigerant piping and form a refrigerant circuit. Existing technical documents Patent documents

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 7436936 Summary of the Invention

[0004] The outdoor unit houses multiple devices, including a compressor, a four-way reversing valve, a shut-off valve, and an outdoor heat exchanger. These devices are connected via refrigerant piping, making it difficult to miniaturize and reduce costs.

[0005] The purpose of this disclosure is to achieve miniaturization and cost reduction of devices such as heat source units with shut-off valves.

[0006] (1) The refrigerant flow path module of this disclosure includes: a flow path body, wherein the flow path body has a first connection port, a second connection port, a third connection port, and a fourth connection port for connecting to a first refrigerant pipe, a second refrigerant pipe, a third refrigerant pipe, and a fourth refrigerant pipe, and a first refrigerant flow path, a second refrigerant flow path, a third refrigerant flow path, and a fourth refrigerant flow path communicating with the first connection port, the second connection port, the third connection port, and the fourth connection port; and A shut-off valve core is disposed inside the flow path body and seals off the first refrigerant flow path. The shut-off valve core can move between a first position that closes the first refrigerant flow path and a second position that opens the first refrigerant flow path.

[0007] Based on the above structure, by incorporating the shut-off valve core into the flow path body of the refrigerant flow path module, structures around the shut-off valve core, such as a dedicated housing for the shut-off valve or refrigerant piping connected to that housing, can be omitted. This enables miniaturization and cost reduction of devices such as heat source units that house the refrigerant flow path module. Furthermore, by concentrating the refrigerant flow path and shut-off valve within the refrigerant flow path module, vibration design and other aspects can be easily implemented.

[0008] (2) Based on (1), it also includes a switching mechanism configured in the main body of the flow path. The switching mechanism can switch between a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the first refrigerant flow path is connected to the second refrigerant flow path, and the fourth refrigerant flow path is connected to the third refrigerant flow path. In the second configuration, the first refrigerant flow path is connected to the third refrigerant flow path, and the fourth refrigerant flow path is connected to the second refrigerant flow path.

[0009] Based on the above structure, by incorporating the shut-off valve core and the switching mechanism that functions as a four-way reversing valve into the refrigerant flow path module, it is possible to further miniaturize and reduce the cost of devices such as heat source units that house the refrigerant flow path module.

[0010] (3) Based on (1) or (2), the flow path body includes: a flow path section formed of synthetic resin, wherein the first refrigerant flow path, the second refrigerant flow path, the third refrigerant flow path, and the fourth refrigerant flow path are formed in the flow path section; and The internal structure is housed in a metal casing that contains the flow path.

[0011] According to the above structure, by using a flow path section made of synthetic resin as the main body, the first to fourth refrigerant flow paths can be easily formed, and the pressure resistance of the flow path section made of synthetic resin can be compensated by a metal shell.

[0012] (4) Based on (1) or (2), the flow path body is formed of a material with aluminum as the main component.

[0013] Based on the above structure, the pressure resistance of the main flow path can be easily ensured.

[0014] (5) In this disclosure, the heat source unit connected to the utilization unit via connecting piping includes any one of the refrigerant flow path modules described in (1) to (4) above. The first connection port is connected to the connecting pipe.

[0015] (6) Based on the heat source unit in (5), the first connection port is formed on the lower surface of the flow path body of the refrigerant flow path module. An operating part for operating the shut-off valve core is provided on the side of the flow path body.

[0016] (7) Based on the heat source units of (5) and (6), an operation part is provided in the flow path body for operating the shut-off valve core from any direction intersecting with the second refrigerant pipe, the third refrigerant pipe and the fourth refrigerant pipe. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the refrigerant circuit of a refrigeration cycle apparatus including the refrigerant flow path module of the first embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 2 This is a top view showing the interior of the heat source unit. Figure 3 This is a front view showing the mechanical compartment of the heat source unit. Figure 4 This is a 3D diagram of the refrigerant flow path module. Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerant flow path module when cut with a horizontal plane. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the refrigerant flow path module at line VI-VI. Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the refrigerant flow path module at line VII-VII. Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the function of the switching mechanism (four-way reversing valve) in the first configuration. Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the function of the switching mechanism (four-way reversing valve) in the second configuration. Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing the valve core of the switching mechanism (four-way directional valve). Figure 11 yes Figure 9 A three-dimensional view of the cross section of the shell at line XI-XI. Figure 12 This is a magnified cross-sectional view of the shut-off valve. Figure 13 This is a perspective view of the valve core of the switching mechanism (four-way reversing valve) in the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. [First Implementation Method] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the refrigerant circuit of a refrigeration cycle apparatus including the flow path switching valve of the first embodiment of this disclosure. The refrigeration cycle unit 10 includes a refrigerant circuit 30 that operates in a vapor compression refrigeration cycle. In this embodiment, the refrigeration cycle unit 10 is an air conditioner. Figure 1As shown, the air conditioner 10 has an outdoor unit (heat source unit) 11 and an indoor unit (utilization unit) 12. The outdoor unit 11 and the indoor unit 12 are connected by connecting pipes 13 and 14, respectively. A refrigerant circuit 30 is formed through the outdoor unit 11, the indoor unit 12, and the connecting pipes 13 and 14. In the outdoor unit 11, shut-off valves 23 and 24 are provided at the connection points of the connecting pipes 13 and 14. In addition, the refrigeration circulation device 10 is not limited to an air conditioner, but can also be a cold storage, a freezer, a water heater, a ventilation device, etc.

[0019] (Structure of the refrigerant circuit) like Figure 1 As shown, the outdoor unit 11 is equipped with a compressor 15, a storage tank 25, an outdoor heat exchanger (heat source heat exchanger; second heat exchanger) 16, an expansion valve 17, and a four-way reversing valve (switching mechanism) 18, which constitute the refrigerant circuit 30. An outdoor fan 19 is also provided in the outdoor unit 11. The indoor unit 12 is equipped with an indoor heat exchanger (utilization heat exchanger; first heat exchanger) 21, which constitutes the refrigerant circuit 30. An indoor fan 22 is also provided in the indoor unit 12. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the four-way reversing valve 18 and the shut-off valves 23, 24, as well as the refrigerant flow paths 51b, 52b, 53b, 55, 56, 57, 58 connected to them, are constituted by a modular or integrated refrigerant flow path module 40. Details of this will be explained later.

[0020] The compressor 15 is, for example, a positive displacement compressor such as a scroll or rotary compressor, and has a built-in compressor motor. The compressor 15 compresses the refrigerant drawn in from the suction pipe 52a and discharges it from the discharge pipe 51a. In the outdoor unit 11, the discharge side of the compressor 15 is connected to port A of the four-way reversing valve 18 via the discharge pipe 51a (which serves as a refrigerant pipe) and the refrigerant flow path 51b within the refrigerant flow path module 40. The suction side of the compressor 15 is connected to port B of the four-way reversing valve 18 via the suction pipe 52a (which serves as a refrigerant pipe) and the refrigerant flow path 52b within the refrigerant flow path module 40. A storage tank 25 is provided midway along the suction pipe 52a.

[0021] The outdoor heat exchanger 16 is composed of a cross-finned finned tube heat exchanger or a microchannel heat exchanger, etc. The gas side of the outdoor heat exchanger 16 is connected to port C of the four-way reversing valve 18 via refrigerant piping 53a and refrigerant flow path 53b within the refrigerant flow path module 40. The liquid side of the outdoor heat exchanger 16 is connected to one end of the expansion valve 17 via refrigerant piping 54.

[0022] The expansion valve 17 is, for example, an electrically operated valve with an adjustable opening. The other end of the expansion valve 17 is connected to the liquid-side shut-off valve 23 via the refrigerant flow path 55 within the refrigerant flow path module 40.

[0023] The indoor heat exchanger 21 is composed of a cross-finned finned tube heat exchanger or a microchannel heat exchanger. The liquid side of the indoor heat exchanger 21 is connected to the liquid side shut-off valve 23 via the liquid side connecting pipe 14 and the refrigerant flow path 57 within the refrigerant flow path module 40. The gas side of the indoor heat exchanger 21 is connected to the gas side shut-off valve 24 via the gas side connecting pipe 13 and the refrigerant flow path 58 within the refrigerant flow path module 40. The gas side shut-off valve 24 is connected to port D of the four-way reversing valve 18 via the refrigerant pipe 56 within the refrigerant flow path module 40.

[0024] The four-way reversing valve 18 switches the flow path to a first configuration where ports A and C are connected to each other and ports B and D are connected to each other. Figure 1 The form shown by the solid line) and the second form where ports A and D are connected and ports B and C are connected. Figure 1 (The shape shown by the dashed line). In the first mode, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 15 flows to the outdoor heat exchanger 16, and in the second mode, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 15 flows to the indoor heat exchanger 21.

[0025] An outdoor fan 19 is positioned near an outdoor heat exchanger 16. The outdoor fan 19 is driven by a motor to rotate and delivers air to the outdoor heat exchanger 16. The refrigerant flowing through the outdoor heat exchanger 16 exchanges heat with the outdoor air delivered by the outdoor fan 19, thereby evaporating or condensing.

[0026] An indoor fan 22 is positioned near an indoor heat exchanger 21. The indoor fan 22 is driven by a motor to rotate and delivers air to the indoor heat exchanger 21. The refrigerant flowing within the indoor heat exchanger 21 exchanges heat with the indoor air delivered by the indoor fan 22, thereby condensing or evaporating.

[0027] When the air conditioner 10 is in cooling operation, the four-way reversing valve 18 is switched to the first mode; when in heating operation, the four-way reversing valve 18 is switched to the second mode. During cooling operation, the gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor 15 flows through the four-way reversing valve 18 into the outdoor heat exchanger 16, which functions as a condenser, and is condensed into liquid refrigerant. This liquid refrigerant is depressurized in the expansion valve 17, becoming a two-phase refrigerant, and flows into the indoor heat exchanger 21, which functions as an evaporator. The two-phase refrigerant exchanges heat with the air supplied by the indoor fan 22, evaporates, and becomes gaseous refrigerant. The air cooled by the heat exchange is supplied to the room. The gaseous refrigerant flowing from the indoor heat exchanger 21 is drawn into the compressor 15 through the four-way reversing valve 18.

[0028] During heating operation, the gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor 15 flows through the four-way reversing valve 18 to the indoor heat exchanger 21, which functions as a condenser. The gaseous refrigerant exchanges heat with the air supplied by the indoor fan 22, condenses, and becomes a liquid refrigerant. The heated air is then supplied to the room. The liquid refrigerant flowing from the indoor heat exchanger 21 is depressurized in the expansion valve 17, becoming a two-phase refrigerant, and flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 16, which functions as an evaporator. The two-phase refrigerant evaporates in the outdoor heat exchanger 16, becoming a gaseous refrigerant. The gaseous refrigerant is then drawn into the compressor 15 through the four-way reversing valve 18.

[0029] (Structure of the outdoor unit) Figure 2 This is a top view showing the interior of the heat source unit. In the following description, it will be referred to as... Figure 2 The direction indicated by the middle arrow X (first direction X) is the left and right direction, and the direction indicated by the arrow Y (second direction) is the front and back direction. The outdoor unit 11 includes a housing 91. The housing 91 is formed in a cuboid shape, and appears rectangular when viewed from above. The interior of the housing 91 is divided into a machine compartment S1 and a heat exchange compartment S2 by a partition wall 92. The machine compartment S1 houses a compressor 15. In addition to the compressor 15, the machine compartment S1 also houses a storage tank 25, a refrigerant flow path module 40, etc.

[0030] The heat exchange chamber S2 of the casing 91 houses an outdoor heat exchanger 16 and an outdoor fan 19. The outdoor heat exchanger 16 is L-shaped when viewed from above. The outdoor heat exchanger 16 is arranged along two adjacent side walls (rear side wall 91a and left side wall 91b) of the casing 91 located on the side of the heat exchange chamber S2. Air intake ports 91a1 and 91b1 are formed on these side walls 91a and 91b. The outdoor fan 19 is positioned opposite another side wall (front side wall) 91c, which is adjacent to the side wall (left side wall) 91b on which the air intake port 91b1 is formed. An air outlet 91c1 is formed on this side wall 91c.

[0031] When the outdoor fan 19 is working, air is drawn into the housing 91 through the air intake ports 91a1 and 91b1 and discharged through the air outlet 91c1. Figure 2 Arrow a indicates the direction of airflow into housing 91.

[0032] Figure 3 This is a front view showing the mechanical compartment of the heat source unit. like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the refrigerant flow path module 40 is disposed in the mechanical compartment S1 within the housing 91 of the outdoor unit 11. Specifically, the refrigerant flow path module 40 is disposed in the mechanical compartment S1 near adjacent side walls (front side wall) 91c and side wall (right side wall) 91d. In other words, the refrigerant flow path module 40 is disposed at the corner between side walls 91c and 91d.

[0033] The refrigerant flow path module 40 is fixed to the housing 91 by mounting members 93 and 94. Mounting member 93 is formed as a strip plate, with one end fixed to the refrigerant flow path module 40 along its length and the other end fixed to the dividing wall 92 of the housing 91. One end of mounting member 94 is fixed to the side wall (right side wall) 91d of the housing 91, and the other end is fixed to the refrigerant flow path module 40. Therefore, the refrigerant flow path module 40 is mounted between the side wall 91d and the dividing wall 92 of the housing 91 in the left-right direction X by mounting members 93 and 94. The refrigerant flow path module 40 is positioned on the right side of the compressor 15 (on the side in the first direction X) and on the front side of the storage tank 25 (on the side in the second direction Y).

[0034] The refrigerant flow path module 40 in this embodiment is rectangular in shape. The upper surface of the refrigerant flow path module 40 is connected to one end of each of the plurality of refrigerant pipes 51a, 52a, and 53a. The other end of the refrigerant pipe (discharge pipe) 51a is connected to the discharge side of the compressor 15. The other end of the refrigerant pipe (suction pipe) 52a is connected to the storage tank 25. The other end of the refrigerant pipe 53a is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 16. The lower surface of the refrigerant flow path module 40 is connected to the connecting pipes 13 and 14, or to one end of other refrigerant pipes connected to the connecting pipes 13 and 14.

[0035] (Refrigerant Flow Module) Figure 4 This is a 3D diagram of the refrigerant flow path module. Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerant flow path module when cut with a horizontal plane. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the refrigerant flow path module at line VI-VI. Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the refrigerant flow path module at line VII-VII. In these figures, a third direction Z, orthogonal to both the first direction X and the second direction Y, is shown. In this embodiment, the first direction X is defined as the left-right direction, the second direction Y as the front-back direction, and the third direction Z as the up-down direction. However, these illustrations are not intended to limit this disclosure and may be modified as appropriate.

[0036] The refrigerant flow path module 40 has a flow path body 31 and valve cores 60, 23a, and 24a constituting various valves 18, 23, and 24. The flow path body 31 is formed in a cuboid shape. The flow path body 31 includes a flow path section 32 and a housing 33. Multiple refrigerant flow paths 51b, 52b, 53b, 55, 56, 57, and 58 are formed in the flow path section 32, as well as multiple hollow sections 31A, 31B, and 31C for housing the valve cores 60, 23a, and 24a.

[0037] The flow path 32 is a rectangular block. The flow path 32 is formed, for example, from a synthetic resin. The flow path 32 is formed by molding using a mold, such as injection molding. Materials for the flow path 32 may include PA66 (polyamide 66), PPS (polyphenylene sulfide), PBT (polybutylene terephthalate), etc. However, the materials and manufacturing methods of the flow path 32 are not limited to those described above.

[0038] Although not shown in the figure, the flow path section 32 of this embodiment is composed of multiple components (segments). For example, the flow path section 32 is segmented at one or more locations in the middle of the left-right direction X, the middle of the up-down direction Z, and / or the middle of the front-back direction Y.

[0039] The housing 33 covers the outer side of the flow path section 32. The housing 33 is a hollow box with a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The housing 33 is made of metal. The housing 33 is formed, for example, of iron, stainless steel, etc. The housing 33 is formed by sheet metal processing, etc. However, the material and manufacturing method of the housing 33 are not particularly limited.

[0040] The housing 33 is composed of multiple components (segments) divided along any face or edge forming a cuboid. After covering the flow path 32 with the multiple segments, the segments are joined together by welding or brazing to form a cuboid box shape. Thus, by covering the flow path 32 with the housing 33, the pressure resistance of the flow path 32 to pressure exerted by the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow paths 51b, 52b, 53b, 55-58 and the refrigerant in the hollow sections 31A-31C can be improved. Furthermore, refrigerant leakage from the flow path 32 to the outside can be suppressed.

[0041] Alternatively, the flow path body 31 can also be entirely made of metal, such as a material with aluminum as the main component. In this case, the interior of the metal flow path body 31 contains holes that form the refrigerant flow path and a hollow portion for housing the valve.

[0042] like Figure 5As shown, the valve core 60 of the four-way directional valve 18 and the valve cores 23a and 24a of the shut-off valves 23 and 24 are housed within the flow path body 31. Specifically, hollow portions 31A, 31B, and 31C are formed in the flow path portion 32 to house each valve core 60, 23a, and 24a. Therefore, the flow path body 31 functions as a common housing for all valve cores 60, 23a, and 24a. More specifically, the flow path portion 32 of the flow path body 31 functions as the inner housing of the valve cores 60, 23a, and 24a, and the housing 33 functions as the outer housing of the valve cores 60, 23a, and 24a.

[0043] (Four-way reversing valve (switching mechanism) 18) The hollow portion 31A of the valve core 60 housing the four-way directional valve 18 is spherical. Multiple ports (openings) A, B, C, and D are formed on the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A. These ports A through D correspond to reference... Figure 1 The ports A through D have been described. In this embodiment, ports A through D are arranged at approximately the same height in the vertical direction. Ports A through D are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the hollow portion 31A. The centers of ports A through D are arranged on the same horizontal plane as the center of the spherical shape of the hollow portion 31A.

[0044] like Figures 5-7 As shown, refrigerant flow paths 51b, 52b, 53b, 56, and 58, which are connected to ports A to D, are formed in the flow path body 31. The refrigerant flow path 51b connected to port A includes a crossflow path 51b1 and a longitudinal flow path 51b2. The crossflow path 51b1 extends horizontally from port A. Specifically, the crossflow path 51b1 extends forward from port A.

[0045] The longitudinal flow path 51b2 extends vertically from the end of the transverse flow path 51b1. Specifically, the longitudinal flow path 51b2 extends upward from the front end of the transverse flow path 51b1. Figure 4 As shown, the upper end of the longitudinal flow path 51b2 opens on the upper surface of the flow path body 31 (housing 33). This opening 51b3 forms a connection port for connecting the refrigerant piping 51a.

[0046] like Figure 5 As shown, the refrigerant flow path 52b connected to port B includes a crossflow path 52b1 and a longitudinal flow path 52b2. The crossflow path 52b1 extends horizontally from port B. Specifically, the crossflow path 52b1 extends diagonally to the right and rear from port B.

[0047] The longitudinal flow path 52b2 extends vertically from the end of the transverse flow path 52b1. Specifically, as... Figure 6 As shown, the longitudinal flow path 52b2 extends upward from the rear end of the transverse flow path 52b1. (As...) Figure 4As shown, the upper end of the longitudinal flow path 52b2 opens on the upper surface of the flow path body 31 (housing 33). This opening 52b3 forms a connection port for connecting the refrigerant piping 52a.

[0048] like Figure 5 As shown, the refrigerant flow path 53b connected to port C includes a crossflow path 53b1 and a longitudinal flow path 53b2. The crossflow path 53b1 extends horizontally from port B. Specifically, the crossflow path 53b1 extends diagonally to the left and rear from port C.

[0049] The longitudinal flow path 53b2 extends vertically from the end of the transverse flow path 53b1. Specifically, the longitudinal flow path 53b2 extends upward from the rear end of the transverse flow path 53b1. The upper end of the longitudinal flow path 53b2 opens on the upper surface of the flow path body 31 (shell 33). Figure 4 As shown, the opening 53b3 forms a connection port for connecting the refrigerant piping 53a.

[0050] like Figure 5 As shown, the refrigerant flow paths 56 and 58 connected to port D include a crossflow path 56 and a longitudinal flow path 58. The crossflow path 56 extends horizontally from port D. Specifically, the crossflow path 56 extends forward from port D.

[0051] The longitudinal flow path 58 extends vertically from the end of the transverse flow path 56. Specifically, as... Figure 6 As shown, the longitudinal flow path 58 extends downward from the front end of the transverse flow path 56. The lower end of the longitudinal flow path 58 opens into the lower surface of the flow path body 31 (housing 33). Figure 4 As shown, the opening 58a forms a connection port for connecting the connecting pipe (refrigerant pipe) 13. The connecting pipe 13 extends downward from the lower surface of the refrigerant flow path module 40.

[0052] Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing the valve core of the switching mechanism (four-way directional valve). The valve core 60 is disposed in the hollow portion 31A of the flow path body 31. The valve core 60 is formed into a spherical shape. The outer diameter of the valve core 60 is formed to be slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A.

[0053] The valve core 60 is made of synthetic resin or metal. The valve core 60 is formed, for example, by injection molding, die casting, or other mold processes. Materials used for the valve core 60 include, for example, synthetic resins such as PA66 (polyamide 66) and PPS (polyphenylene sulfide), aluminum alloys, pure aluminum, and steels such as SUJ2 (high-carbon chromium bearing steel). However, the materials and manufacturing methods of the valve core 60 are not limited to these.

[0054] like Figure 10As shown, the valve core 60 rotates around a predetermined rotation axis C2. In this embodiment, the rotation axis C2 is arranged along the vertical direction Z. The rotation axis C2 of the valve core 60 passes through the center P of the spherical shape of the valve core 60. A drive shaft 66 is arranged on the rotation axis C2. One end (lower end) of the drive shaft 66 is fixed to the valve core 60. The drive shaft 66 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the flow path body 31. Above the flow path body 31, the upper part of the drive shaft 66 is connected to the drive unit 64.

[0055] The drive unit 64 is, for example, an electric motor. The drive unit 64 generates and outputs rotational power. The drive unit 64 employs an electric motor, such as a stepper motor, which can adjust the rotation angle of the drive shaft 66.

[0056] (Specific structure of valve core 60) Figure 10 The diagram shows a reference axis C3 orthogonal to the rotation axis C2 of the valve core 60, and a reference axis C4 orthogonal to both the rotation axis C2 and the reference axis C3. The rotation axis C2, the reference axis C3, and the reference axis C4 are orthogonal to each other at the center P of the spherical shape of the valve core 60.

[0057] A through hole 61 and a recess 62 are formed in the valve core 60. Both the through hole 61 and the recess 62 constitute passageways for the refrigerant. The through hole 61 is a hole that penetrates the valve core 60. In contrast, the recess 62 is formed to create a shape that recesses the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60.

[0058] The through-hole 61 opens at two locations on the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60. One opening 61a of the through-hole 61 is formed on the reference axis C3. The other opening 61b is formed on the reference axis C4. Therefore, as... Figure 5 As shown, the through hole 61 is formed into a roughly L-shaped bend. The two openings 61a and 61b have the same area. The cross-sectional area of ​​the through hole 61 (the area of ​​the section orthogonal to the centerline of the through hole 61; cross-sectional area) is approximately the same as the area of ​​each opening 61a and 61b.

[0059] The recess 62 is formed on the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60 within a range spanning positions G1 and G2 (about 90° around the rotation axis C2), wherein the opening 61a of position G1 relative to one side of the through hole 61 is disposed on the opposite side of the reference axis C3, and the opening 61b of position G2 relative to the other side of the through hole 61 is disposed on the opposite side of the reference axis C4.

[0060] The bottom surface 62a of the recess 62 is a flat surface. This bottom surface 62a is formed across positions G1 and G2. The bottom surface 62a may also be composed of multiple flat surfaces or curved surfaces. The bottom surface 62a of the recess 62 is configured at an angle of approximately 45° with the openings 61a, 61b of the through hole 61.

[0061] The valve core 60, due to the formation of the through hole 61 and the recess 62, is not a complete sphere; it becomes a sphere lacking a portion of the spherical surface (outer surface 60a). This will be explained later. Figure 8 In the diagram, the shape of a complete sphere without any missing parts is represented by an imaginary line L.

[0062] (Flow path switching performed by valve core 60) Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the function of the switching mechanism (four-way reversing valve) in the first configuration. Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the function of the switching mechanism (four-way reversing valve) in the second configuration. In this embodiment, the valve core 60 rotates 90 degrees about the rotation axis C2 to achieve the first configuration (see reference). Figure 8 ) and the second form (refer to) Figure 9 Switch between them.

[0063] exist Figure 8 In the first configuration shown, port B and port D are connected via the through hole 61 of the valve core 60, and port A and port C are connected via the recess 62. Therefore, as Figure 1 As shown by the solid arrow, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 15 flows through the refrigerant piping 51a and the refrigerant flow path 51b into the interior of the four-way reversing valve 18 from port A, and then through the recess 62 (see reference). Figure 8 The refrigerant flows out from port C to the outside of the four-way reversing valve 18, and then through refrigerant flow path 53b and refrigerant piping 53a to be supplied to the outdoor heat exchanger 16. The refrigerant flowing out from the indoor heat exchanger 21 flows through connecting piping 13 and refrigerant flow paths 58 and 56 and flows into the interior of the four-way reversing valve 18 from port D, and through through hole 61 (see reference). Figure 8 The refrigerant flows out from port B to the outside of the four-way reversing valve 18, and then through the refrigerant flow path 52b, refrigerant piping 52a, and storage tank 25 before being drawn into the compressor 15. Thus, the air conditioner 10 can perform refrigeration operation.

[0064] exist Figure 9 In the second configuration shown, port B and port C are connected via the through hole 61 of the valve core 60, and port A and port D are connected via the recess 62. Therefore, as Figure 1 As shown by the dashed arrow, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 15 flows through the refrigerant piping 51a and the refrigerant flow path 51b, and enters the interior of the four-way reversing valve 18 from port A, passing through the recess 62 (see reference). Figure 9The refrigerant flows out from port D to the outside of the four-way reversing valve 18, and then through refrigerant flow paths 56 and 58 and connecting pipe 13 to be supplied to the indoor heat exchanger 21. The refrigerant flowing out from the outdoor heat exchanger 16 flows into the interior of the four-way reversing valve 18 from port C through refrigerant pipe 53a and refrigerant flow path 53b, and passes through through hole 61 (see reference). Figure 9 The refrigerant flows out from port B to the outside of the four-way reversing valve 18, and then through the refrigerant flow path 52b, refrigerant piping 52a, and storage tank 25 before being drawn into the compressor 15. Thus, the air conditioner 10 can perform heating operation.

[0065] The through-hole 61 is always connected to port B, and selectively connected to ports D and C by the valve core 60 rotating 90 degrees around the rotation axis C2. Port B is connected to the suction pipe 52a of the compressor 15 and the refrigerant flow path 52b. Therefore, the through-hole 61, which is always connected to port B, becomes a passage for the flow of "low-pressure refrigerant".

[0066] The recess 62 is always connected to port A, and is selectively connected to ports C and D by the valve core 60 rotating 90 degrees around the rotation axis C2. Port A is connected to the discharge pipe 51a of the compressor 15 and the refrigerant flow path 51b. Therefore, the recess 62, which is always connected to port A, becomes a passage for the flow of "high-pressure refrigerant".

[0067] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 A three-dimensional view of the cross section of the shell at line XI-XI. like Figure 8 , Figure 9 as well as Figure 11 As shown, sealing portions 34a, 34b, 34c, and 34d are integrally formed around each port A to D on the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A of the flow path body 31. The sealing portions 34a to 34d are annular protrusions extending from the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A. The front ends of these sealing portions 34a to 34d contact the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60.

[0068] Specifically, in Figure 8 In the first configuration shown, the sealing portion 34b formed on the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A around the port B contacts the area around the opening 61b of the through hole 61 on the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60. The sealing portion 34d formed on the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A around the port D contacts the area around the opening 61a of the through hole 61 on the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60.

[0069] Therefore, the sealing portions 34b and 34d can prevent low-pressure refrigerant flowing through ports B, D, and through-hole 61 from leaking into the gap between the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60 and the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A. Furthermore, the sealing portions 34b and 34d can prevent refrigerant (high-pressure refrigerant) flowing through ports B, D, and through-hole 61 from entering ports B, D, and through-hole 61. Thus, mixing of low-pressure and high-pressure refrigerant can be prevented.

[0070] In contrast, a portion of the sealing portions 34a and 34c formed on the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A around ports A and C contacts the area around the recess 62 on the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60, while the other portion is located radially outside the recess 62 and does not contact the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60. Therefore, the high-pressure refrigerant flowing through ports A and C and the recess 62 leaks into the gap between the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60 and the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A.

[0071] When high-pressure refrigerant leaks into the gap between the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60 and the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A, the pressure of the high-pressure refrigerant is applied to most of the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60, excluding the through hole 61. Furthermore, the pressure of the high-pressure refrigerant is also applied to the recess 62 through which the high-pressure refrigerant passes. Therefore, the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60 is forcefully pressed against the sealing portions 34b and 34d formed around ports B and D.

[0072] Therefore, the sealing portions 34b and 34d can further suppress the leakage of low-pressure refrigerant flowing through ports B, D, and through hole 61 into the gap between the outer surface 60a of valve core 60 and the inner surface of hollow portion 31A. Furthermore, the sealing portions 34b and 34d can further suppress the flow of high-pressure refrigerant from ports B, D, and through hole 61; in other words, high-pressure refrigerant flowing through ports A, C, and recess 62, as well as high-pressure refrigerant leaking from them, can flow into ports B, D, and through hole 61.

[0073] exist Figure 9 In the second configuration shown, the sealing portion 34b formed on the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A around the port B contacts the area around the opening 61a of the through hole 61 on the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60. The sealing portion 34c formed on the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A around the port C contacts the area around the opening 61b of the through hole 61 on the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60.

[0074] Therefore, the sealing portions 34b and 34c can prevent low-pressure refrigerant flowing through ports B, C, and through-hole 61 from leaking into the gap between the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60 and the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A. Furthermore, the sealing portions 34b and 34c can prevent refrigerant (high-pressure refrigerant) flowing through ports B, C, and through-hole 61 from entering ports B, C, and through-hole 61. Thus, mixing of low-pressure and high-pressure refrigerant can be prevented.

[0075] In contrast, a portion of the sealing portions 34a and 34d formed on the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A around ports A and D contacts the area around the recess 62 on the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60, while the other portion is located radially outside the recess 62 and does not contact the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60. Therefore, refrigerant flowing through ports A and D and the recess 62 leaks into the gap between the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60 and the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A.

[0076] When high-pressure refrigerant leaks into the gap between the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60 and the inner surface of the hollow portion 31A, the pressure of the high-pressure refrigerant is applied to most of the outer surface 60a of the valve core 60, excluding the through hole 61, and to the recess 62 through which the high-pressure refrigerant passes. Therefore, the valve core 60 is forcefully pressed against the sealing portions 34b and 34c formed around ports B and C.

[0077] Therefore, the sealing portions 34b and 34c can further suppress the leakage of low-pressure refrigerant flowing through ports B, C, and through hole 61 into the gap between the outer surface 60a of valve core 60 and the inner surface of hollow portion 31A. Furthermore, the sealing portions 34b and 34c can further suppress the flow of high-pressure refrigerant from ports B, C, and through hole 61; in other words, the high-pressure refrigerant flowing through ports A, D, and recess 62, as well as any high-pressure refrigerant leaking from them, can flow into ports B, C, and through hole 61.

[0078] The sealing portions 34a to 34d are integrally formed with the flow path portion 32. Therefore, compared with the case where the sealing portions 34a to 34d are formed separately from the flow path portion 32, the number of parts can be reduced. Furthermore, when the flow path portion 32 is molded from synthetic resin or the like, the sealing portions 34a to 34d can be easily integrally formed.

[0079] In port A of the four ports A to D, only high-pressure refrigerant flows through it. Therefore, the seal 34a formed around port A is essentially unused. Thus, the seal 34a can also be omitted.

[0080] (Stop valve 24) Figure 12 This is a magnified cross-sectional view of the shut-off valve. like Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, a shut-off valve (gas-side shut-off valve) 24 is provided between the refrigerant flow path 56 and the refrigerant flow path 58 formed in the flow path body 31 (flow path section 32) of the refrigerant flow path module 40. Figure 12 As shown, the valve core (stop valve core) 24a of the shut-off valve 24 is housed in the hollow portion 31C of the flow path portion 32 formed in the flow path body 31. This hollow portion 31C is formed in a cylindrical shape and communicates with the refrigerant flow paths 56 and 58. The axis of the cylindrical shape of the hollow portion 31C is arranged concentrically with the axis of the refrigerant flow path 56. Therefore, the hollow portion 31C extends in a horizontal direction. The upper end of the refrigerant flow path 58 communicates with the lower side of the hollow portion 31C.

[0081] The hollow portion 31C has a cylindrical mounting body 35 on its inner circumference. The mounting body 35 is made of metal, such as stainless steel or iron. A female thread is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the mounting body 35. The mounting body 35 protrudes to the outside of the housing 33 through an opening 33a formed in the housing 33. A male thread 35a is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the mounting body 35 protruding from the housing 33. The mounting body 35 is embedded, for example, during the molding of the flow path portion 32, and becomes integral with the flow path portion 32. Alternatively, the mounting body 35 is joined to the housing 33 by welding or brazing.

[0082] The valve core 24a can be the same valve core used in known gate valves. The valve core 24a is made of metal or synthetic resin. The valve core 24a is cylindrical. A male thread is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the valve core 24a. The valve core 24a is housed within the hollow portion 31C by engaging the male thread on its outer circumferential surface with the female thread formed on the inner circumferential surface of the hollow portion 31C (mount 35).

[0083] A valve seat 31C1 is formed at the boundary between the hollow portion 31C and the refrigerant flow path 56. The outer periphery of one end (rear end) of the valve core 24a can contact the valve seat 31C1. When the valve core 24a is rotated about its axis and moved rearward, and the valve core 24a contacts the valve seat 31C1, the refrigerant flow path 56 is closed. The valve core 24a is operated manually. A hexagonal operating part 24a1 is formed at the other end (front end) of the valve core 24a. A tool such as a hexagonal wrench for rotating the valve core 24a can be inserted into the operating part 24a1.

[0084] A cap nut 36 is installed on the male thread 35a formed on the outer peripheral surface of the mounting body 35. The cap nut 36 is a cover covering the operating part 24a1 of the valve core 24a. The valve core 24a can be operated by removing the cap nut 36 from the male thread 35a.

[0085] As described above, to close the shut-off valve 24, the valve core 24a is rotated to move it in the direction (rearward) towards the refrigerant flow path 56, and one end (terminal) of the valve core 24a contacts the valve seat 31C1. In this embodiment, this position is also referred to as the first position. To open the shut-off valve 24, the valve core 24a is rotated to move it in the direction (forward) away from the refrigerant flow path 56, and one end (terminal) of the valve core 24a moves away from the valve seat 31C1. In this embodiment, this position is also referred to as the second position.

[0086] The valve core 24a can be made of metal or synthetic resin. The valve core 24a is formed of a material with a hardness higher than that of the flow path portion 32 of the flow path body 31, such as brass or stainless steel. Therefore, when the end of the valve core 24a comes into contact with the valve seat 31C1 formed in the synthetic resin flow path portion 32, the valve seat 31C1 can be tightly contacted with the valve core 24a, thereby reliably sealing the flow path 56.

[0087] like Figure 6 As shown, a service port 26 for a shut-off valve 24 is provided in the refrigerant flow path module 40. The service port 26 has a refrigerant flow path 59 formed in the flow path section 32 and a hollow section 31F. The refrigerant flow path 59 extends in the vertical direction. The lower end of the refrigerant flow path 59 communicates with the hollow section 31C of the valve core 24a. Therefore, the refrigerant flow path 58 and the refrigerant flow path 59 are connected via the hollow section 31C.

[0088] The hollow portion 31F is formed in a cylindrical shape and communicates with the upper end of the refrigerant flow path 59. The axis of the cylindrical shape of the hollow portion 31F is arranged concentrically with the axis of the refrigerant flow path 59. The hollow portion 31F has a cylindrical mounting body 37 on its inner periphery. The mounting body 37 is made of metal. The mounting body 37 is formed of stainless steel, copper alloy, etc. The mounting body 37 protrudes to the outside of the housing 33 through an opening 33b formed in the housing 33. In this embodiment, the mounting body 37 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the housing 33. A male thread 37a is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the mounting body 37 protruding from the housing 33.

[0089] A valve core 26a, constituting the valve spool of the service port 26, is inserted and fixed within the mounting body 37. The valve core 26a has an opening and closing pin 26a1. A cap nut 38 is installed on a male thread 37a formed on the outer peripheral surface of the mounting body 37. The cap nut 38 functions as a cover member covering the pin 26a1.

[0090] When the cap nut 38 is removed and the pin 26a1 of the valve core 26a is pressed downwards, the interior of the valve core 26a is connected to the refrigerant flow path 59. The service port 26 can be connected to instruments such as pressure gauges, vacuum pumps, etc.

[0091] (Expansion valve 17) like Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the expansion valve 17 is mounted on the upper surface of the flow path body 31 of the refrigerant flow path module 40. A refrigerant flow path 55 communicating with the expansion valve 17 is formed in the flow path body 31. The refrigerant flow path 55 includes a crossflow path 55a and a longitudinal flow path 55b. The crossflow path 55a extends horizontally. Specifically, the crossflow path 55a extends in a front-to-back direction. The longitudinal flow path 55b extends vertically from the end of the crossflow path 55a. Specifically, the longitudinal flow path 55b extends upward from the rear end of the crossflow path 55a. The upper end of the longitudinal flow path 55b opens on the upper surface of the flow path body 31 (housing 33) and connects to one end of the expansion valve 17. The other end of the expansion valve 17 is connected to a refrigerant piping 54 connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 16.

[0092] The front end of the refrigerant flow path 55 communicates with the refrigerant flow path 57 formed in the flow path body 31. The refrigerant flow path 57 extends vertically, and its upper end connects to the refrigerant flow path 55. The lower end of the refrigerant flow path 57 opens on the lower surface of the flow path body 31 (housing 33). This opening 57a serves as a connection port for connecting to the upper end of the connecting pipe 14.

[0093] (Stop valve 23) like Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, a shut-off valve (liquid-side shut-off valve) 23 is provided between the refrigerant flow path 55 (crossflow path 55a) and the refrigerant flow path 57 in the flow path body 31 (flow path section 32) of the refrigerant flow path module 40. The valve core 23a of this shut-off valve 23 is housed in the hollow section 31B formed in the flow path body 31. The hollow section 31B is formed in a cylindrical shape and communicates with the refrigerant flow paths 55 and 57. The axis of the cylindrical shape of the hollow section 31B is arranged concentrically with the axis of the crossflow path 55a of the refrigerant flow path 55. Therefore, the hollow section 31B extends in the horizontal direction. The upper end of the refrigerant flow path 57 communicates with the lower side of the hollow section 31B.

[0094] The hollow portion 31B has a cylindrical mounting body 45 on its inner circumference. The mounting body 45 is made of metal, such as stainless steel or copper alloy. A male thread is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the mounting body 45. The mounting body 45 protrudes to the outside of the housing 33 through an opening 33c formed in the housing 33. A male thread 45a is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the mounting body 45 protruding from the housing 33. The mounting body 45 is embedded, for example, during the molding of the flow path portion 32, and becomes integral with the flow path portion 32. Alternatively, the mounting body 35 is joined to the housing 33 by welding or brazing.

[0095] The valve core 23a can use the same valve core as that used in known shut-off valves. The valve core 23a is formed in a cylindrical shape. A male thread is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the valve core 23a. The valve core 23a is housed within the hollow portion 31B by engaging the male thread on the outer peripheral surface with the female thread formed on the inner peripheral surface of the hollow portion 31B (mount 45).

[0096] A valve seat 31B1 is formed at the boundary between the hollow portion 31B and the refrigerant flow path 55. The outer periphery of one end (rear end) of the valve core 23a can contact the valve seat 31B1. When the valve core 23a is rotated about its axis and moved rearward, bringing it into contact with the valve seat 31B1, the refrigerant flow path 55 is closed. The valve core 23a is operated manually. An operating portion 23a1 is formed at the other end (front end) of the valve core 23a. The operating portion 23a1 is hexagonal in shape. A tool such as a hexagonal wrench for rotating the valve core 23a can be inserted into the operating portion 23a1.

[0097] A cap nut 46 is installed on the male thread 35a formed on the outer peripheral surface of the mounting body 45. The cap nut 46 is a cover that covers the operating part 23a1 of the valve core 23a. The valve core 23a can be operated by removing the cap nut 46 from the male thread 45a.

[0098] like Figure 7 As shown, a service port 27 for a shut-off valve 23 is provided in the refrigerant flow path module 40. The service port 27 has a refrigerant flow path 69 formed in the flow path section 32 and a hollow section 31E. The refrigerant flow path 69 extends in the vertical direction. The lower end of the refrigerant flow path 69 communicates with the hollow section 31B of the valve core 23a. Therefore, the refrigerant flow path 57 and the refrigerant flow path 69 are connected via the hollow section 31B.

[0099] The hollow portion 31E is formed in a cylindrical shape and communicates with the upper end of the refrigerant flow path 69. The axis of the cylindrical shape of the hollow portion 31E is arranged concentrically with the axis of the refrigerant flow path 69. The hollow portion 31E has a cylindrical mounting body 47 on its inner periphery. The mounting body 47 is made of metal. The mounting body 47 is formed of stainless steel, copper alloy, etc. The mounting body 47 protrudes to the outside of the housing 33 through an opening 33d formed in the housing 33. In this embodiment, the mounting body 37 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the housing 33. A male thread 47a is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the mounting body 47 protruding from the housing 33.

[0100] A valve core 27a, which forms the valve spool of the service port 27, is inserted into the mounting body 47. The valve core 27a has an opening and closing pin 27a1. A cap nut 48 is installed in a detachable manner onto a male thread 47a formed on the outer peripheral surface of the mounting body 47. The cap nut 48 functions as a cover member covering the pin 26a1.

[0101] When the cap nut 48 is removed and the pin 27a1 of the valve core 27a is pressed downwards, the interior of the valve core 27a is connected to the refrigerant flow path 69. The service port 27 can be connected to instruments such as pressure gauges and vacuum pumps.

[0102] [Second Implementation] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of the valve core of the switching mechanism (four-way reversing valve) in the second embodiment. In this embodiment, the valve core 60 of the four-way directional valve (switching mechanism) 18 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The axis of the cylindrical shape of the valve core 60 is the rotation axis C2. The valve core 60 has the same through hole 61 and recess 62 as the valve core 60 in the first embodiment. Although not shown, the hollow portion 31A that houses the valve core 60 is also formed in a cylindrical shape. Except for the valve core 60 and the hollow portion 31A, the structure of the four-way directional valve 18 is the same as that in the first embodiment.

[0103] [Other Implementation Methods] In the switching mechanism 18 described above, the valve core 60 has a through hole 61 forming a passage for low-pressure refrigerant and a recess 62 forming a passage for high-pressure refrigerant. However, it is not limited to this. For example, in the valve core 60, a recess may be formed as a passage for low-pressure refrigerant, and a through hole may be formed as a passage for high-pressure refrigerant. The valve core 60 is not limited to the spherical or cylindrical shape described above, and may also be other known shapes.

[0104] The valve cores 23a and 24a of the shut-off valves 23 and 24 can, for example, be formed into a ball shape like the valve core of the four-way directional valve 18. The operating portions 23a1 and 24a1 of the shut-off valves 23 and 24 are not limited to being located on the front side of the refrigerant flow path module 40, but can also be located on other surfaces (left and right sides, rear side, or upper and lower surfaces). The service ports 27 and 26 of the shut-off valves 23 and 24 are also not limited to being located on the upper surface of the refrigerant flow path module 40, but can also be located on other surfaces (left and right sides, front and rear sides, or lower surface).

[0105] The rotation axis C2 of the valve core 60 of the four-way reversing valve 18 is not limited to being arranged in the vertical direction, but can also be arranged in the horizontal direction. The ports A to D of the four-way reversing valve 18 can also be formed in the upper or lower part of the inner surface of the hollow part 31A. The refrigerant flow paths 51b, 52b, 53b, 56, and 58 communicating with the ports A to D can also extend upward or downward from the ports A to D.

[0106] The refrigerant piping connected to the refrigerant flow path module 40 is not limited to being connected to the upper and lower surfaces of the refrigerant flow path module 40, but can also be connected to other surfaces (left and right sides, front and rear sides). The flow path body 31 of the refrigerant flow path module 40 is not limited to a cuboid shape, but can also be formed into a cylindrical shape, a spherical shape, etc.

[0107] In the above embodiment, the openings 58a, 57a, 51b3, 52b3, and 53b3 formed on the outer surface of the refrigerant flow path module 40 constitute connection ports for connecting refrigerant pipes 13, 14, 51a, 52a, and 53a. However, for example, the connection ports may also be formed by other pipes such as connector pipes installed to the openings.

[0108] In the above embodiment, the switching mechanism 18 is composed of a four-way reversing valve 18. However, for example, multiple refrigerant flow paths in the flow path body 31 can be switched by multiple on / off valves such as solenoid valves.

[0109] In the above embodiment, the refrigerant flow path module 40 includes a shut-off valve 23 and refrigerant flow paths 55 and 57 connected thereto, but may not include them. The expansion valve 17 may also not be directly connected to the refrigerant flow path module 40.

[0110] The refrigerant flow path module 40 can also be built into a device other than the outdoor unit (heat source unit) 11.

[0111] [Effects of the Implementation Method] (1) As Figure 4 As shown, the refrigerant flow path module 40 of the above embodiment includes a first connection port (e.g., openings 58a, 57a), a second connection port (e.g., opening 52b3), a third connection port (e.g., opening 51b3), and a fourth connection port (e.g., opening 53b3) for connecting a first refrigerant pipe (e.g., connecting pipes 13, 14), a second refrigerant pipe (e.g., refrigerant pipe 52a), a third refrigerant pipe (e.g., refrigerant pipe 51a), and a fourth refrigerant pipe (e.g., refrigerant pipe 53a).

[0112] In addition, such as Figures 4-6 As shown, the refrigerant flow path module 40 includes a flow path body 31, in which a first refrigerant flow path (e.g., refrigerant flow paths 56, 58, 55, 57), a second refrigerant flow path (e.g., refrigerant flow path 52b), a third refrigerant flow path (e.g., refrigerant flow path 51b), and a fourth refrigerant flow path (e.g., refrigerant flow path 53b) are formed, which are connected to the first connection port 58a, the second connection port 52b3, the third connection port 51b3, and the fourth connection port 53b3.

[0113] In addition, the refrigerant flow path module 40 includes shut-off valve cores 24a and 23a disposed inside the flow path body 31 and closing the first refrigerant flow paths 56, 58, 55, and 57. The shut-off valve cores 24a and 23a can move between a first position that closes the first refrigerant flow path 56, 58, 55, 57 and a second position that opens the first refrigerant flow path 56, 58, 55, 57.

[0114] Thus, by incorporating the shut-off valve cores 24a and 23a into the flow path body 31 of the refrigerant flow path module 40, structures surrounding the valve cores 24a and 23a, such as dedicated housings for the shut-off valves 24 and 23 or refrigerant piping connected to such housings, can be omitted, thereby enabling miniaturization and cost reduction of the heat source unit 11. Furthermore, by concentrating the refrigerant flow paths 56 and 58 and the shut-off valve cores 24a and 23a (shut-off valves 24 and 23) within the refrigerant flow path module 40, vibration design and other aspects can be easily implemented.

[0115] (2) The refrigerant flow path module 40 described in (1) further includes a switching mechanism (four-way reversing valve) 18 disposed in the flow path body 31. The switching mechanism 18 can switch to Figure 8 The first configuration shown connects the first refrigerant flow paths 56 and 58 with the second refrigerant flow path 52b and connects the fourth refrigerant flow path 53b with the third refrigerant flow path 51b. Figure 9 The second configuration shown connects the first refrigerant flow paths 56 and 58 with the third refrigerant flow path 51b and connects the fourth refrigerant flow path 53b with the second refrigerant flow path 52b.

[0116] According to this structure, by incorporating the shut-off valve core 24a together with the switching mechanism 18, which functions as a four-way reversing valve, into the refrigerant flow path module 40, it is possible to further miniaturize and reduce the cost of the heat source unit 11.

[0117] (3) Based on the refrigerant flow path module 40 of (1) or (2) above, the flow path body 31 includes: a flow path section 32, which is formed of synthetic resin and has formed a first refrigerant flow path 56, 58, 55, 57, a second refrigerant flow path 52b, a third refrigerant flow path 51b and a fourth refrigerant flow path 53b therein; and a metal housing 33 that houses the flow path section 32 inside.

[0118] According to this structure, the first to fourth refrigerant flow paths can be easily formed by using the flow path body 31 made of synthetic resin and the flow path section 32. By including a metal housing 33 that houses the flow path section 32, the housing 33 can compensate for the pressure resistance of the flow path section 32 to the pressure of the refrigerant flowing in the first to fourth refrigerant flow paths.

[0119] (4) Based on the refrigerant flow path module 40 of (1) or (2) above, the flow path body 31 can also be formed of a material with aluminum as the main component. According to this structure, the strength of the flow path body 31 can be improved, and the pressure resistance against refrigerant pressure can be easily ensured.

[0120] (5) The heat source unit (outdoor unit) 11 in the above embodiment is connected to the utilization unit (e.g., indoor unit 12) via connecting pipes 13 and 14. The heat source unit 11 includes the refrigerant flow path module 40 described in any one of (1) to (4) above, and the first connection ports 58a and 57a of the refrigerant flow path module 40 are connected to the connecting pipes 13 and 14. According to this structure, instead of directly connecting the connecting pipes 13 and 14 to the shut-off valve as in conventional heat source units, the refrigerant flow path module 40, which includes shut-off valve cores 24a and 23a, is connected to the connecting pipes 13 and 14. Therefore, the connecting pipes 13 and 14 can be connected to the refrigerant flow paths 58, 56, 55, 57 and other valve cores within the refrigerant flow path module 40 through a compact structure.

[0121] (6) Based on the heat source unit 11 in (5) above, the first connection ports 58a and 57a are formed on the lower surface of the flow path body 31 of the refrigerant flow path module 40, and an operation part 24a1 and 23a1 for operating the shut-off valve cores 24a and 23a are provided on one side (e.g., the front surface) of the flow path body 31. With this structure, the shut-off valve cores 24a and 23a can be easily operated (opened and closed) via the operating parts 24a1 and 23a1.

[0122] (7) Based on the heat source unit 11 of (5) or (6) above, the flow path body 31 is provided with operation parts 24a1 and 23a1 for operating the shut-off valve cores 24a and 23a from any direction intersecting with the second refrigerant pipe 52a, the third refrigerant pipe 51a and the fourth refrigerant pipe 53a. For example, in the refrigerant flow path module 40 of the above embodiment, such as Figure 4 As shown, the second refrigerant pipe 52a, the third refrigerant pipe 51a, and the fourth refrigerant pipe 53, which are connected to the compressor 15 and the outdoor heat exchanger 16, are arranged along the vertical direction Z. The operating parts 24a1 and 23a1 of the shut-off valve cores 24a and 23a can be operated from the direction intersecting with the second refrigerant pipe 52a, the third refrigerant pipe 51a, and the fourth refrigerant pipe 53a, i.e., the front-back direction Y (more specifically, the front). Therefore, it can be ensured that the operability of the shut-off valve cores 24a and 23a is not affected by the second refrigerant pipe 52a, the third refrigerant pipe 51a, and the fourth refrigerant pipe 53a connected to the flow path body 31.

[0123] The embodiments have been described above, but it should be understood that various changes in form and detail can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Symbol Explanation

[0124] 10. Air conditioning unit (refrigeration circulation device); 11 Outdoor Unit (Heat Source Unit); 12 indoor units; 13 Gas-side connecting piping (first refrigerant piping); 14 Liquid-side connecting piping (first refrigerant piping); 18. Four-way directional valve (switching mechanism); 23. Shut-off valve; 23a valve core (shut-off valve core); 23a1 Operations Section; 24. Stop valve; 24a valve core (shut-off valve core); 24a1 Operation Section; 31 flow path main body; 32 flow path part; 33. Shell; 40 Refrigerant Flow Module; 51a Discharge piping (Third refrigerant piping); 51b Refrigerant Flow Path (Third Refrigerant Circuit); 51b3 opening (third connection port); 52a Suction piping (second refrigerant piping); 52b Refrigerant Flow Path (Second Refrigerant Circuit); 52b3 opening (second connection port); 53a refrigerant piping (fourth refrigerant piping); 53b3 opening (fourth connection port); 55 Refrigerant Flow Path (First Refrigerant Circuit); 56. Refrigerant Flow Path (First Refrigerant Circuit); 57. Refrigerant Flow Path (First Refrigerant Circuit); 58. Refrigerant Flow Path (First Refrigerant Circuit); 57a opening (first connection port); 58a opening (first connection port).

Claims

1. A refrigerant flow path module, characterized in that, include: The flow path body (31) has a first connection port (58a, 57a), a second connection port (52b3), a third connection port (51b3), and a fourth connection port (53b3) for connecting to the first refrigerant pipe (13, 14), the second refrigerant pipe (52a), the third refrigerant pipe (51a), and the fourth refrigerant pipe (53a). It also has a first refrigerant flow path (56, 58, 55, 57), a second refrigerant flow path (52b), a third refrigerant flow path (51b), and a fourth refrigerant flow path (53b) communicating with the first connection port (58a, 57a), the second connection port (52b3), the third connection port (51b3), and the fourth connection port (53b3). The shut-off valve cores (24a, 23a) are disposed inside the flow path body (31) and seal off the first refrigerant flow path (56, 58, 55, 57). The shut-off valve cores (24a, 23a) can move between a first position that closes the first refrigerant flow path (56, 58, 55, 57) and a second position that opens the first refrigerant flow path (56, 58, 55, 57).

2. The refrigerant flow path module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigerant flow path module also includes a switching mechanism (18) configured in the flow path body (31). The switching mechanism (18) can switch between a first mode and a second mode, wherein in the first mode, the first refrigerant flow path (56, 58) is connected to the second refrigerant flow path (52b) and the fourth refrigerant flow path (53b) is connected to the third refrigerant flow path (51b). In the second configuration, the first refrigerant flow path (56, 58) is connected to the third refrigerant flow path (51b) and the fourth refrigerant flow path (53b) is connected to the second refrigerant flow path (52b).

3. The refrigerant flow path module according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The flow path body (31) includes: a flow path portion (32) formed of synthetic resin, the flow path portion (32) having a first refrigerant flow path (56, 58, 55, 57), a second refrigerant flow path (52b), a third refrigerant flow path (51b), and a fourth refrigerant flow path (53b); and A metal housing (33) is used to house the flow path section (32).

4. The refrigerant flow path module according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The flow path body (31) is formed of a material with aluminum as the main component.

5. A heat source unit, said heat source unit being connected to a utilization unit (12) via connecting pipes (13, 14), characterized in that, The heat source unit includes the refrigerant flow path module (40) according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The first connection port (58a, 57a) is connected to the connecting pipe (13, 14).

6. The heat source unit according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first connection ports (58a, 57a) are formed on the lower surface of the flow path body (31) of the refrigerant flow path module (40). An operating part (24a1, 23a1) for operating the shut-off valve core (24a, 23) is provided on the side of the flow path body (31).

7. The heat source unit according to claim 5, characterized in that, The flow path body (31) is provided with an operating part (24a1, 23a1) for operating the shut-off valve core (24a, 23a) from any direction intersecting with the second refrigerant pipe (52a), the third refrigerant pipe (51a) and the fourth refrigerant pipe (53a).

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