Cross-flow air conditioner

By setting air inlets and outlets on the front of the air conditioner, combined with the optimized layout of the cross-flow fan and evaporator, the problems of limited air intake and large space occupation of traditional air conditioners are solved, achieving efficient heat exchange and optimized space utilization.

CN121854948APending Publication Date: 2026-04-14GUANGDONG SUNWILL PRECISING PLASITC CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
GUANGDONG SUNWILL PRECISING PLASITC CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-12-26
Publication Date
2026-04-14

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional cross-flow cabinet air conditioners suffer from limited air intake, insufficient air volume, and large space occupation due to their rear air intake design, which affects their operating performance and space utilization, making it difficult to meet the aesthetic needs of modern interior design.

Method used

It adopts a front air intake and dual-side air outlet design, with the air intake and air outlet located on the front of the air conditioner, the cross-flow fan located on the air outlet side, and the evaporator close to the air intake, forming a compact airflow path and eliminating the reliance on the rear space.

Benefits of technology

It achieves smooth air intake and sufficient air volume, reduces space occupation, improves heat exchange efficiency and indoor space utilization, and conforms to modern minimalist aesthetics.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of air conditioners, in particular to a cross-flow air conditioner which comprises a machine shell, a cross-flow fan and an evaporator. An air inlet is formed in the middle of the front face of the machine shell, and an air outlet is formed in the left side and / or the right side of the front face of the machine shell. An air duct is arranged in the machine shell and used for distributing airflow entering from the air inlet to the air outlet; the cross-flow fan is arranged on the left side and / or the right side of the machine shell and is close to the air outlet. The cross-flow fan provides driving force for airflow to enter the machine shell from the air inlet and then flow out of the air outlet. The evaporator is arranged in the machine shell and close to the air inlet, and the evaporator is used for conducting temperature exchange on airflow flowing through the air channel. The air inlet and the air outlet are formed in the front face of the air conditioner, the back of the air conditioner can be directly attached to a wall or integrated with the wall, it can be guaranteed that the air inlet and the air outlet are not blocked, and smooth airflow circulation is guaranteed; the air inlet resistance is obviously reduced, and the air inlet efficiency is improved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of air conditioner technology, and more particularly to a cross-flow air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] As a common temperature control device in large spaces, the operating efficiency and spatial adaptability of cabinet air conditioners have always been a focus of attention in this field. Currently, the mainstream traditional cross-flow cabinet air conditioners on the market generally adopt a structural layout with rear air intake and front air exhaust. The air intake is mainly located on the rear or rear side of the equipment. This design means that when installing the air conditioner, its back must be kept at a certain distance from the indoor wall to maintain basic air intake conditions.

[0003] However, this "rear-intake" design concept has gradually revealed many inherent flaws in practical applications. First and foremost, the most prominent problem lies in its severely limited air intake. When the back of the air conditioner is pressed against or too close to the wall, the effective air intake space between the wall and the equipment's air inlet is significantly compressed, resulting in a narrow airflow channel. This not only increases airflow resistance, leading to increased fan load and operating noise, but more importantly, the obstructed airflow directly results in insufficient circulating air volume required by the heat exchanger, severely affecting the heat exchange efficiency of the evaporator and condenser. Ultimately, this leads to a decline in the overall performance of the air conditioner and a reduction in the coefficient of performance (COP), which is particularly evident under high-temperature or high-load conditions.

[0004] Secondly, this structural design results in high space occupation costs and poor spatial adaptability. To ensure basic air intake requirements and avoid performance degradation due to excessive proximity to the wall, a sufficient gap (usually 150mm to 300mm or even more) must be reserved between the back of the air conditioner and the wall during installation. This "safe distance" undoubtedly encroaches on valuable indoor usable space, making it difficult to effectively utilize corners or wall-adjacent positions, which contradicts the modern residential and office environment's pursuit of "large space, small equipment" and maximizing space utilization. Furthermore, the abrupt gap between the unit and the wall disrupts the overall integrity and aesthetics of the interior space, making it appear visually bulky and failing to align with the current trend of minimalist and integrated modern interior design.

[0005] In summary, existing traditional cabinet air conditioners with a "rear air intake and front air exhaust" structure have significant shortcomings in terms of performance and space utilization. The contradiction between their air intake efficiency and space occupation has become a bottleneck restricting their further development, and optimization and improvement are needed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In response to the problems raised in the background art, the purpose of this invention is to propose a cross-flow air conditioner that solves the problem that the rear air intake design of existing air conditioners relies on the space behind the unit, which can easily lead to obstructed air intake.

[0007] To achieve this objective, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: A cross-flow air conditioner includes a casing, a cross-flow fan, and an evaporator; An air inlet is provided in the central area of ​​the front of the housing, and an air outlet is provided on the left and / or right side of the front of the housing. The air inlet is used for air intake, and the air outlet is used for air exhaust. No air intake or exhaust structures are provided on the back and other sides of the housing. The housing is equipped with an air duct, which is used to divert the airflow entering from the air inlet to the air outlet; The cross-flow fan is located on the left and / or right side of the housing and is close to the air outlet; the cross-flow fan provides driving force for the airflow to enter the housing from the air inlet and then flow out from the air outlet; The evaporator is located inside the housing and near the air inlet. The evaporator is used to exchange temperature with the airflow passing through the air duct.

[0008] Preferably, the number of air inlets is one, the number of air outlets is two, and the number of cross-flow fans is two; The two air outlets are located on the left and right sides of the air inlet, respectively; The two cross-flow fans are respectively located near the two air outlets, and the cross-flow fans are located on the side of the evaporator away from the air inlet.

[0009] Preferably, the housing includes a back cover and a front cover, the front cover being a flat cover that fits over the front of the back cover; The air inlet and the air outlet are located on the front cover, so that the air inlet and the air outlet are on the same plane; The area of ​​the evaporator projected onto the front cover covers the area where the air inlet is located.

[0010] Preferably, the evaporator has a bent structure, and the projection of the evaporator in the vertical direction is V-shaped; The evaporator includes a bent end and two extended ends; The bent end is close to the back shell, one of the extended ends extends forward toward one of the air outlets, and the other extended end extends forward toward the other air outlet. The two extended ends are symmetrically arranged.

[0011] Preferably, the length of the housing is L, and the length of the air inlet is L1; Where L = (1.5~2)L1.

[0012] Preferably, the length of the air outlet is L2; Where L1 = (2~3)L2.

[0013] Preferably, the distance between the front cover and the back cover is the thickness H of the housing, and the diameter of the cross-flow fan is D; Where H = (1.8~2.3)D.

[0014] Preferably, the two extension ends are symmetrically inclined and disposed in the air duct, and the angle between the extension ends and the air inlet is α; Where 30° < α < 45°.

[0015] Preferably, the distance between the edge of the cross-flow fan and the front cover is L3, and the minimum distance between the edge of the cross-flow fan and the evaporator is L4; Among them, L3 > 15mm, L4 > 15mm.

[0016] Preferably, it also includes a water receiving tray, which is disposed inside the housing and located at the bottom of the evaporator.

[0017] Compared with the prior art, one of the above technical solutions has the following beneficial effects: 1. The air inlet and outlet are located on the front of the air conditioner, and the back can be directly attached to the wall or integrated with the wall, which can ensure that the air inlet and outlet are unobstructed and ensure smooth airflow; the air intake resistance is significantly reduced and the air intake efficiency is improved.

[0018] 2. No additional air intake clearance is required for air conditioner installation, effectively reducing the space occupied by the air conditioner, meeting the current user demand for "small size, large space", and improving indoor living aesthetics and spatial comfort. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of an existing air conditioner; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of an air conditioner and a wall according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of an air conditioner and a wall according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a structure according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] The components include: wall 0, casing 1, back cover 11, front cover 12, air inlet 101, air outlet 102, air duct 103, cross-flow fan 2, evaporator 3, bent end 31, extension end 32, and water tray 4. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0022] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0023] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first," "second," and "third" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature.

[0024] It should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they can refer to mechanical connections or electrical connections; they can refer to direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0025] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figures 1 to 4 The technical solution of the present invention will be further illustrated through specific embodiments.

[0026] A cross-flow air conditioner includes a casing 1, a cross-flow fan 2, and an evaporator 3; An air inlet 101 is provided in the central area of ​​the front of the housing 1, and an air outlet 102 is provided on the left and / or right side of the front of the housing 1. The air inlet 101 is used for air intake, and the air outlet 102 is used for air exhaust. No air intake or exhaust structures are provided on the back and other sides of the housing 1. The housing 1 is provided with an air duct 103, which is used to divert the airflow entering from the air inlet 101 to the air outlet 102. The cross-flow fan 2 is disposed on the left and / or right side of the housing 1 and is located near the air outlet 102; the cross-flow fan 2 provides driving force for airflow to enter the housing from the air inlet 101 and then flow out from the air outlet 102. The evaporator 3 is disposed inside the housing 1 and close to the air inlet 101. The evaporator 3 is used to exchange temperature with the airflow passing through the air duct 103.

[0027] This invention, by confining the air inlet 101 to the central area of ​​the front of the casing 1 and providing the air outlet 102 on the left and / or right sides, while explicitly eliminating the need for air inlet and outlet structures on the back and other sides of the casing 1, completely eliminates the need for back and side space from a physical structural perspective. This allows the air conditioner to be installed completely flush against the wall, achieving true "zero-distance" integration and fundamentally solving the problem of traditional rear-inlet designs encroaching on indoor space, perfectly matching the modern home's pursuit of efficient space utilization.

[0028] Specifically, the layout of the air inlet 101 and air outlet 102 can be adjusted according to specific needs. For example, a combination of a single air inlet 101 and a single air outlet 102, or a distribution of multiple air inlets 101 and multiple air outlets 102, can be used to meet the airflow organization requirements in different scenarios. The formation of the air duct 103 depends on the internal space design of the casing 1, and airflow can be guided by setting guide plates or baffles inside the casing 1. The evaporator 3 is positioned near the air inlet 101, either by direct installation or by fixing it with a bracket, to ensure that the air entering the air duct 103 can fully contact the evaporator 3, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency. The cross-flow fan 2 is positioned near the air outlet 102, and its rotation is driven by a motor to provide power for the airflow, ensuring that the air is effectively pushed to the air outlet 102 after passing through the evaporator 3. Thus, air enters the air duct 103 through the air inlet 101, passes through the evaporator 3 and the cross-flow fan 2 in sequence, and is finally discharged from the air outlet 102, completing the cycle from front air intake to exhaust. The airflow path is specifically optimized by combining different air inlets 101 and outlets 102, different shapes of the air duct 103, and different types of cross-flow fans 2. For example, a volute-shaped air duct or the addition of guide vanes can be used to reduce airflow resistance.

[0029] The working principle of the air conditioner of the present invention is as follows: A cross-flow air conditioner achieves a complete airflow path from front air intake to exhaust through the coordinated operation of the casing 1, the cross-flow fan 2, and the evaporator 3. The casing 1 has an air inlet 101 in the central area of ​​its front, while the back and other sides of the casing 1 do not have air intake or exhaust structures. This concentrates both air intake and exhaust on the front of the device, thus avoiding the reliance on rear space in traditional rear-intake designs. An air duct 103 is formed inside the casing 1 between the air inlet 101 and the air outlet 102, guiding airflow from the front air inlet 101 to the air outlet 102, reducing airflow resistance and maintaining path stability.

[0030] In summary, the air conditioner of this invention solves the problems of limited air intake space, insufficient air volume, and large space occupation caused by the rear air intake design of traditional cross-flow air conditioners. The air inlet 101 and air outlet 102 are jointly located on the front of the air conditioner, achieving front airflow management and allowing for stable installation without the need for rear-mounted space. The evaporator 3's proximity to the air inlet 101 optimizes the contact effect between the airflow and the heat exchange components, while the position of the cross-flow fan 2 enhances the airflow's driving force. The overall design forms a self-contained front air intake system, capable of maintaining sufficient air volume and uniform airflow without external space intervention, thereby effectively improving air intake conditions and increasing space utilization.

[0031] Furthermore, the number of air inlets 101 is one, the number of air outlets 102 is two, and the number of cross-flow fans 2 is two; The two air outlets 102 are respectively located on the left and right sides of the air inlet 101; The two cross-flow fans 2 are respectively located close to the two air outlets 102, and the cross-flow fans 2 are located on the side of the evaporator 3 away from the air inlet 101.

[0032] A single air inlet 101 refers to the only entrance that centrally guides airflow into the equipment, ensuring high concentration and uniformity of airflow upon entering the air duct 103. Dual air outlets 102 refer to two independent outlets located on the left and right sides of the air inlet 101, which can be achieved through a symmetrical layout to expand the airflow coverage and avoid localized airflow dead zones. Dual cross-flow fans 2 drive the airflow within the air duct 103 towards themselves and discharge it from the nearest outlet 102. This can be achieved using synchronous or asynchronous drive modes to ensure the stability and independence of the airflow discharged from each outlet 102.

[0033] Specifically, this technical solution fundamentally optimizes the airflow organization path by integrating a symmetrical layout of a single air inlet 101 and dual air outlets 102, combined with a system driven by dual cross-flow fans 2. The single air inlet 101 centrally guides the airflow evenly through the evaporator 3, avoiding the airflow dispersion problem caused by multiple air inlets, thus ensuring sufficient contact between the incoming air and the heat exchange surface. Based on the central position characteristics of the air inlet 101, the dual air outlets 102 allow the outlet airflow to naturally diffuse symmetrically in the horizontal direction, significantly expanding the outlet coverage area and solving the problem of localized airflow dead zones caused by traditional single outlets. The number of dual cross-flow fans 2 strictly corresponds to the number of dual air outlets 102, with each cross-flow fan 2 independently driving one outlet 102, avoiding the problem of unbalanced airflow distribution in the dual-path of a single cross-flow fan, and ensuring the stability of the airflow at each outlet 102. The synergistic relationship between the dual air outlets 102 and the dual cross-flow fans 2 in this technical solution physically isolates the left and right airflow paths, preventing cross-interference of airflow within the paths, resulting in clearer and more efficient airflow organization. Both cross-flow fans 2 are located on the left and right sides of the evaporator and away from the air inlet 101, so that the cross-flow fans 2 symmetrically push the airflow behind the evaporator 3, which uniformly enhances the interaction between the airflow and the heat exchange surface, and improves the overall heat exchange efficiency and the uniformity of indoor temperature distribution.

[0034] Furthermore, the housing 1 includes a back cover 11 and a front cover 12, the front cover 12 being a flat cover that covers the front of the back cover 11; The air inlet 101 and the air outlet 102 are formed on the front cover 12, so that the air inlet 101 and the air outlet 102 are on the same plane; The area of ​​the evaporator 3 projected onto the front cover 12 covers the area where the air inlet 101 is located.

[0035] By using a flat cover as the front cover 12, and placing the air inlet 101 and air outlet 102 on this flat surface, the front of the air conditioner becomes a simple, flat two-dimensional plane. This design physically eliminates the protruding air intake grille or structure found in traditional designs, greatly reducing the overall thickness of the unit and achieving a truly "flat" appearance. Combined with the previously achieved "zero-distance" wall mounting, this solution minimizes the space occupied by the air conditioner in the room.

[0036] Furthermore, by limiting the projected area of ​​the evaporator 3 to cover the entire area where the air inlet 101 is located, this means that all air entering from the air inlet 101 must and can only pass through the heat exchange fins of the evaporator 3. This "full contact" design completely eliminates airflow that has not undergone heat exchange, ensuring that every portion of refrigerant / air entering the equipment undergoes sufficient heat exchange, thereby maximizing the utilization rate of the evaporator 3 and the overall heat exchange efficiency of the unit.

[0037] Specifically, the layout of the air inlet 101 and air outlet 102 on the same plane facilitates a more integrated and direct design of the internal air duct 103. Airflow enters from the front, immediately exchanges heat with the evaporator 3, and is then efficiently guided to the side air outlet 102. This layout allows for a compact arrangement of internal components, resulting in a more refined and reliable overall structure. By integrating the air inlet and outlet onto the same plane cover and defining the projection relationship between the evaporator and the air inlet, this solution further optimizes airflow efficiency, structural compactness, and aesthetic uniformity while achieving ultra-thin air conditioner design and wall-mounted installation.

[0038] To further explain, the casing 1 also includes an air guide structure at the air outlet 102, and the air guide structure is located on the side close to the air inlet 101; on the one hand, the air guide structure is used to adjust the air outlet direction of the air outlet 102; on the other hand, the air guide structure prevents the air outlet from being immediately sucked into the air inlet 101, which helps the airflow to diffuse over a wider range and improve the indoor airflow circulation regulation effect.

[0039] Furthermore, the evaporator 3 has a bent structure, and the projection of the evaporator 3 in the vertical direction is V-shaped; The evaporator 3 includes a bent end 31 and two extended ends 32; The bent end 31 is close to the back shell 11, one of the extended ends 32 extends forward toward one of the air outlets 102, and the other extended end 32 extends forward toward the other air outlet 102. The two extension ends 32 are symmetrically arranged.

[0040] Specifically, the V-shaped evaporator 3 refers to its overall structure having an angled shape in space, designed to optimize airflow distribution and improve heat exchange efficiency. The bent end 31 is the apex of the V-shape; its design near the back shell 11 effectively reduces the space required at the back, thus alleviating the airflow restriction problem caused by wall-mounted installation. The extension ends 32 are the portions extending to both sides from the bent end 31; their design towards the air outlet 102 shortens the airflow path, reduces flow resistance, and ensures efficient airflow discharge. The symmetrical arrangement of the two extension ends 32 is based on the symmetry requirement of the dual air outlets, aiming to achieve even airflow distribution on both sides and avoid excessive or insufficient airflow on one side.

[0041] Specifically, this design utilizes the V-shaped overall configuration of the evaporator 3, combined with the spatial layout of the dual air outlets 102, to allow the evaporator 3 to naturally form a bifurcated guiding structure. This precisely guides the airflow to the left and right air outlets 102, avoiding airflow deviation caused by the evaporator in the duct. The placement of the bent end 31 near the back shell 11, combined with the back shell 11's physical position at the rear of the casing, positions the V-shaped apex near the wall 0. This allows the extension end 32 to fully extend forward, covering a wider air intake range while reducing the need for rear space, alleviating the air intake limitation problem caused by wall-mounted installation in traditional designs. The extension end 32 extends towards the air outlets 102, ensuring that the airflow from the evaporator 3 after heat exchange flows directly to the air outlets 102 along the shortest path, significantly reducing flow resistance and shortening the airflow path. This ensures efficient and uniform airflow discharge, avoiding turbulence and energy loss. In addition, the symmetrical arrangement of the two extension ends 32 ensures the uniform distribution of airflow in the duct according to the symmetry requirements of the left and right air outlets, preventing fluctuations in heat exchange efficiency caused by excessive or insufficient airflow on one side, thereby optimizing the overall indoor airflow circulation and heat exchange performance.

[0042] Furthermore, the length of the housing 1 is L, and the length of the air inlet 101 is L1; Where L = (1.5~2)L1.

[0043] The length L of the housing 1 refers to the lateral extension of the overall outer casing of the equipment. The purpose of introducing this technical feature is to optimize airflow distribution and improve space utilization by defining the proportional relationship between the housing 1 and the air inlet 101.

[0044] Specifically, by setting the ratio between the length L of the casing 1 and the length L1 of the air inlet 101, the problem of airflow uniformity is effectively solved. When the length L of the casing 1 is 1.5 times the length L1 of the air inlet 101, sufficient buffer space is provided for the airflow, reducing the occurrence of local turbulence. When the ratio reaches 2 times, the compactness of the equipment is maintained, while avoiding space waste caused by an excessively long casing. This design not only ensures a smooth transition of airflow when entering the equipment but also significantly improves the heat exchange efficiency of the evaporator 3. At the same time, the design of this ratio range fully considers the need for miniaturization in modern indoor environments, achieving efficient space utilization while ensuring performance. Combined with the planar design of the front cover 12 and the layout of the air duct 103, a complete airflow organization system is formed, thereby achieving dual optimization of airflow uniformity and spatial adaptability.

[0045] Furthermore, the length of the air outlet 102 is L2; Where L1 = (2~3)L2.

[0046] By precisely setting the length ratio between the air inlet 101 and the air outlet 102, the problems of excessively high intake air velocity and insufficient air diffusion at the outlet are effectively alleviated. The length L1 of the air inlet 101, as a key dimension, disperses airflow distribution under fixed airflow conditions, preventing the formation of local high-speed zones, thereby reducing intake air velocity and airflow resistance. The relatively small length L2 of the air outlet 102, through its design, allows airflow to be more concentrated and directed into the indoor space during exhaust, improving the air diffusion range. The specific range of the ratio L1 = (2~3)L2 ensures reasonable control of the intake air velocity and effective expansion of the air diffusion at the outlet, avoiding both insufficient airflow due to excessively low intake air velocity and increased resistance and noise caused by excessively high air velocity. Furthermore, this ratio design can be coordinated with the layout of the cross-flow fan 2 and the evaporator 3 to further optimize airflow distribution and heat exchange efficiency, thereby achieving uniform airflow circulation and efficient heat exchange within the room.

[0047] The above technical solution not only solves the problems of excessively high inlet air velocity and limited outlet air diffusion, but also significantly improves the overall performance of the air conditioner. The longer air inlet 101 effectively disperses airflow, reducing the increase in local resistance caused by concentrated airflow. Simultaneously, the appropriately long outlet 102 ensures more uniform airflow and wider coverage during exhaust. This design is particularly suitable for scenarios requiring extensive airflow coverage, providing a more comfortable indoor environment while ensuring heat exchange efficiency.

[0048] Furthermore, the distance between the front cover 12 and the back cover 11 is the thickness H of the housing 1, and the diameter of the cross-flow fan 2 is D; Where H = (1.8~2.3)D.

[0049] The thickness H of the casing 1 refers to the vertical distance between the front cover 12 and the back cover 11. This parameter not only defines the overall thickness of the equipment but also provides the basic framework for the internal airflow channels and component layout. The diameter D of the cross-flow fan 2 refers to the maximum diameter of the fan's rotation circumference. The introduction of the proportional relationship H = (1.8~2.3)D aims to ensure a precise match between airflow and heat exchange requirements, avoiding energy waste and performance degradation.

[0050] Specifically, a specific proportional relationship is used to address the coordination issue between airflow distribution and heat exchange efficiency. The thickness H of the casing 1 directly affects the achievable range of the heat exchange area of ​​the evaporator 3, while the diameter D of the cross-flow fan 2 is directly related to the airflow output capacity. With a fixed casing thickness H, the fan diameter D is constrained to the range of H / 2.3 to H / 1.8. This fan size optimization mechanism based on casing thickness ensures that the cross-flow fan 2 maintains efficient airflow during operation while dynamically adapting to the heat exchange requirements of the evaporator 3. Furthermore, this proportional relationship also improves airflow utilization efficiency and maintains equipment compactness, thereby effectively solving the problem of reduced cross-flow fan output efficiency or mismatch between airflow and heat exchange area caused by proportional imbalance.

[0051] In summary, by optimizing the thickness of the air conditioner and the size of the cross-flow fan 3, a precise match between air volume and heat exchange requirements was achieved. This not only avoids unnecessary energy consumption caused by excessive air volume, but also prevents the heat exchange efficiency from decreasing due to insufficient air volume, ultimately improving the overall energy efficiency of the air conditioner.

[0052] Furthermore, the two extension ends 32 are respectively symmetrically inclined in the air duct 103, and the angle between the extension ends 32 and the air inlet 101 is α; Where 30° < α < 45°.

[0053] This solution further optimizes the airflow organization and heat exchange efficiency of the dual-side air outlet system by limiting the angle between the extended end 32 and the air inlet 101 in the V-shaped structure of the evaporator 3. It not only adapts to the overall structural design of front air inlet and dual air outlet, but also solves the problems of high airflow resistance and uneven heat exchange that are common in traditional air conditioners, significantly improving the overall operating performance of the air conditioner.

[0054] Specifically, the evaporator 3 covers the air inlet 101 through V-shaped symmetrical extension ends 32. To optimize equipment size and heat exchange requirements, the two extension ends extend forward from the bent end 31 and towards the air outlets 102 at both ends, respectively, and the angle α between the extension ends 32 and the air inlet 101 is limited to between 30° and 45°. If α ≤ 30°, the extension ends 32 will be too close to the air inlet, causing the flow space to narrow after the airflow enters the air duct 103, which can easily form eddies and local airflow congestion, increasing energy loss; if the angle is ≥ 45°, the contact angle between the extension ends 32 and the incoming airflow is too large, causing some airflow to flow directly to the air outlet without fully passing through the heat exchange surface of the evaporator, resulting in insufficient heat exchange and reduced cooling or heating efficiency. The tilt angle within this range allows the airflow entering from the air inlet 101 to flow over the heat exchange surface of the evaporator extension end 32 at a nearly smooth angle. This maximizes the contact area between the airflow and the heat exchange surface while effectively reducing the local resistance caused by airflow impact and avoiding energy waste.

[0055] From the perspective of the symmetrical operation requirements of the air outlet ducts on both sides, this tilt angle and the symmetrical layout of the two extension ends 32 create a synergistic effect. The extension ends 32 on both sides correspond to the left and right air outlet ducts with the same tilt angle, which can ensure that the airflow entering the air outlet ducts on both sides receives consistent flow resistance and heat exchange conditions. This ensures the balanced output of airflow on both sides under the drive of the dual cross-flow fans, keeps the outlet air temperature and air volume on the left and right air outlets consistent, and thus makes the indoor temperature distribution more uniform and improves the comfort of use.

[0056] Meanwhile, this tilt angle adapts to the overall configuration of the V-shaped evaporator 3, helping the airflow to form an efficient guiding path. The extension end 32 extends at this angle towards the air outlet 102, allowing the airflow, after heat exchange in the evaporator 3, to be naturally guided to the air outlet along the tilted trajectory of the extension end 32, further shortening the airflow path and reducing the residence time and energy loss of the airflow within the duct 103. This guiding effect also reduces friction between the airflow and the duct wall, reducing the driving load on the cross-flow fan and lowering operating energy consumption while maintaining the same airflow effect.

[0057] Furthermore, the distance between the edge of the cross-flow fan 2 and the front cover 12 is L3, and the minimum distance between the edge of the cross-flow fan 2 and the evaporator 3 is L4; Among them, L3 > 15mm, L4 > 15mm.

[0058] Specifically, L3 refers to the shortest straight-line distance between the outer edge of the cross-flow fan 2 and the inner surface of the front cover 12, which can be achieved by reserving an appropriate space gap during the design phase. The purpose of setting this distance is to ensure sufficient buffer space in the air intake area, avoiding a sudden increase in airflow velocity and airflow turbulence caused by an excessively small distance, thereby reducing airflow resistance and suppressing operating noise. In practical applications, this distance can be achieved by adjusting the installation position of the cross-flow fan 2 or the shape of the front cover 12.

[0059] L4 refers to the minimum straight-line distance between the outer edge of the cross-flow fan 2 and the surface of the evaporator 3, which can be achieved by optimizing the relative layout between the cross-flow fan 2 and the evaporator 3. The purpose of setting this distance is to maintain a stable airflow channel between the cross-flow fan 2 and the evaporator 3, prevent local airflow blockage caused by insufficient clearance, ensure that the airflow evenly covers the surface of the evaporator 3 for efficient heat exchange, avoid ineffective airflow loss, and improve the overall heat exchange stability.

[0060] Specifically, by precisely controlling the spatial relationship between the cross-flow fan 2 and key components, the performance defects caused by unbalanced airflow layout are effectively solved. The distance L3 from the edge of the cross-flow fan 2 to the front cover 12 is greater than 15mm, ensuring sufficient buffer space in the air intake area. This prevents a sudden increase in airflow velocity and airflow turbulence caused by insufficient distance, thereby reducing airflow resistance and suppressing operating noise. Simultaneously, the minimum distance L4 from the edge of the cross-flow fan 2 to the evaporator 3 is greater than 15mm, maintaining a stable airflow channel between the fan and the evaporator 3. This prevents localized airflow blockage due to insufficient clearance, ensuring even airflow coverage of the evaporator 3 surface for efficient heat exchange, avoiding ineffective airflow loss, and improving overall heat exchange stability. The coordinated setting of these distance parameters not only optimizes the continuity and uniformity of internal airflow but also enhances the operational reliability of the equipment within its compact structure.

[0061] Furthermore, the above-mentioned solution works closely with the overall structure of the aforementioned cross-flow air conditioner. For example, the inclined design of the evaporator 3 further improves heat exchange efficiency, while the reasonable setting of the distance between the cross-flow fan 2, the front cover 12, and the evaporator 3 further optimizes the uniformity and stability of airflow. This design not only solves problems such as excessively high intake air velocity and increased airflow turbulence caused by insufficient distance, but also significantly reduces operating noise and improves heat exchange efficiency and energy utilization efficiency.

[0062] Furthermore, it also includes a water receiving tray 4, which is disposed inside the housing 1 and located at the bottom of the evaporator 3.

[0063] The drip tray 4 is used to collect condensate and can be made of corrosion-resistant materials such as plastic or stainless steel. Its purpose is to ensure that it will not be damaged by condensate corrosion during long-term use. The drip tray 4 is designed to be located inside the casing 1 to ensure that the condensate collection process is completed within a closed space, thus preventing moisture leakage into the indoor environment. Furthermore, the drip tray 4's location at the bottom of the evaporator 3 fully utilizes the natural downward flow of condensate under gravity, allowing water to flow directly into the drip tray and reducing the risk of splashing or leakage.

[0064] Specifically, the addition of a drip tray 4 effectively solves the condensate collection problem. The introduction of the drip tray 4 ensures that the condensate generated during the operation of the evaporator 3 is collected promptly, preventing disorderly accumulation of moisture inside the equipment. The positional relationship between the drip tray 4 and the evaporator 3 is rationally designed to ensure smooth flow of condensate into the drip tray while preventing moisture retention or overflow. Furthermore, the design of the drip tray 4's fit with the interior of the casing 1 further enhances the compactness and reliability of the overall structure, enabling the equipment to maintain good sealing performance while operating efficiently, thus ensuring long-term stable operation. Through the above technical solutions, not only are problems such as internal corrosion and moisture damage to electrical components caused by potential condensate leakage resolved, but the overall layout of the equipment is also optimized, improving the safety and service life of the air conditioner.

[0065] The technical principles of the present invention have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. These descriptions are merely for explaining the principles of the invention and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the invention in any way. Based on this explanation, those skilled in the art can readily conceive of other specific embodiments of the invention without inventive effort, and these embodiments will all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A cross-flow air conditioner, characterized in that: Includes a casing (1), a cross-flow fan (2), and an evaporator (3); An air inlet (101) is provided in the middle area of ​​the front of the housing (1), and an air outlet (102) is provided on the left and / or right side of the front of the housing (1). The air inlet (101) is used for air intake, and the air outlet (102) is used for air exhaust. No air intake and air exhaust structures are provided on the back and other sides of the housing (1). The housing (1) is provided with an air duct (103) inside, which is used to divert the airflow entering through the air inlet (101) to the air outlet (102). The cross-flow fan (2) is located on the left and / or right side of the housing (1) and close to the air outlet (102); the cross-flow fan (2) provides driving force for the airflow to enter the housing from the air inlet (101) and then flow out from the air outlet (102); The evaporator (3) is located inside the housing (1) and close to the air inlet (101). The evaporator (3) is used to exchange temperature with the airflow flowing through the air duct (103).

2. A cross-flow air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that: The number of air inlets (101) is one, the number of air outlets (102) is two, and the number of cross-flow fans (2) is two; The two air outlets (102) are respectively located on the left and right sides of the air inlet (101); The two cross-flow fans (2) are respectively located close to the two air outlets (102), and the cross-flow fans (2) are located on the side of the evaporator (3) away from the air inlet (101).

3. A cross-flow air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that: The housing (1) includes a back shell (11) and a front cover (12), the front cover (12) being a flat cover that covers the front of the back shell (11); The air inlet (101) and the air outlet (102) are opened on the front cover (12) so that the air inlet (101) and the air outlet (102) are on the same plane; The area of ​​the evaporator (3) projected onto the front cover (12) covers the area where the air inlet (101) is located.

4. A cross-flow air conditioner according to claim 3, characterized in that: The evaporator (3) has a bent structure, and the projection of the evaporator (3) in the vertical direction is V-shaped; The evaporator (3) includes a bent end (31) and two extended ends (32). The bent end (31) is close to the back shell (11), one of the extension ends (32) extends forward toward one of the air outlets (102), and the other extension end (32) extends forward toward the other air outlet (102); The two extension ends (32) are symmetrically arranged.

5. A cross-flow air conditioner according to claim 4, characterized in that: The length of the housing (1) is L, and the length of the air inlet (101) is L1; Where L = (1.5~2)L1.

6. A cross-flow air conditioner according to claim 5, characterized in that: The length of the air outlet (102) is L2; Where L1 = (2~3)L2.

7. A cross-flow air conditioner according to claim 4, characterized in that: The distance between the front cover (12) and the back shell (11) is the thickness H of the housing (1), and the diameter of the cross-flow fan (2) is D; Where H = (1.8~2.3)D.

8. A cross-flow air conditioner according to claim 4, characterized in that: The two extension ends (32) are respectively symmetrically inclined in the air duct (103), and the angle between the extension end (32) and the air inlet (101) is α; Where 30° < α < 45°.

9. A cross-flow air conditioner according to claim 8, characterized in that: The distance between the edge of the cross-flow fan (2) and the front cover (12) is L3, and the minimum distance between the edge of the cross-flow fan (2) and the evaporator (3) is L4; Among them, L3 > 15mm, L4 > 15mm.

10. A cross-flow air conditioner according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that: It also includes a water receiving tray (4), which is disposed inside the housing (1) and located at the bottom of the evaporator (3).

Citation Information

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