Air conditioner

Abstract

The utility model discloses an air conditioner. The air conditioner comprises a shell, a heat exchanger, an enclosure piece and a sensor, the heat exchanger is arranged in the shell, the enclosure piece is arranged in the shell, an enclosure space is defined by the enclosure piece, the heat exchanger and the shell, the enclosure space is used for gathering refrigerants leaked in the shell, and the sensor is used for detecting the concentration of the refrigerants in the enclosure space. Therefore, the enclosed space can gather the refrigerant leaked from the interior of the shell, the overflow of the refrigerant is reduced, the timeliness and accuracy of sensor detection are improved, and the safety of the air conditioner is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of household appliances, and in particular to an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, the demand for home heating systems that also incorporate cooling systems is becoming increasingly widespread. With societal development and rising environmental awareness, cooling systems are increasingly using more environmentally friendly refrigerants, such as R454B, which reduces ozone depletion and helps mitigate global warming. However, these new environmentally friendly refrigerants are highly flammable, posing a significant safety hazard should a leak occur. To prevent leaks from reaching explosive concentrations and causing accidents, gas detection sensors are typically used to monitor refrigerant concentrations in the environment. These sensors provide timely alerts when refrigerant concentrations are too high, preventing combustion, explosions, and other accidents caused by leaks. However, in current technologies, refrigerant easily diffuses into the outside air and may not be detected promptly. Utility Model Content

[0003] This utility model provides an air conditioner.

[0004] The air conditioner according to the embodiments of this application includes a housing, a heat exchanger, a baffle, and a sensor. The heat exchanger is disposed inside the housing, the baffle is disposed inside the housing, and the baffle, the heat exchanger, and the housing form an enclosed space. The enclosed space is used to collect refrigerant leaked from inside the housing, and the sensor is used to detect the refrigerant concentration in the enclosed space.

[0005] In this way, the enclosed space can collect the refrigerant leaking inside the casing, reduce refrigerant spillage, improve the timeliness and accuracy of sensor detection, and thus improve the safety of the air conditioner.

[0006] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger includes a side plate and a pipe, the side plate being disposed on at least one side along the length of the heat exchanger, the pipe being disposed on the side plate and extending outward along the length of the heat exchanger, and a retaining member being disposed on the side of the side plate away from the heat exchanger.

[0007] In some embodiments, the enclosure includes a first enclosure, the enclosed space includes a first enclosed space, a slot is formed on the first enclosure, the first enclosure is engaged with the pipe through the slot, and the first enclosure, the heat exchanger, and the shell enclose the first enclosed space.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first enclosure member is provided with at least one pair of limiting blocks, and two of the limiting blocks in the at least one pair of limiting blocks are arranged opposite each other to form a groove, the shape of the groove being adapted to the shape of the pipe.

[0009] In some embodiments, the shape of the first enclosure member is adapted to the shape of the side panel, and the first enclosure member is engaged with a pipe near the edge of the side panel.

[0010] In some embodiments, the housing includes a front frame and a back plate, and the first enclosure, the front frame, the back plate and the side plates form a first enclosed space, within which the sensor is disposed.

[0011] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes a water collection tray disposed inside the housing, the water collection tray being at least partially located within a first enclosed space, the water collection tray being located below the heat exchanger, and a sensor being located below the water collection tray.

[0012] In some embodiments, the enclosure further includes a second enclosure, which, together with the heat exchanger, forms a second enclosed space.

[0013] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes a guide tube extending from a first enclosed space and / or a second enclosed space to the sensor.

[0014] In some embodiments, the housing includes a face frame and a back plate, the face frame and the back plate forming an accommodating space, the heat exchanger extending through the accommodating space along its length, the accommodating space and the first enclosing space and the second enclosing space being arranged side by side along the length of the heat exchanger, and the back plate having a recessed mounting space on the side opposite to the heat exchanger, the sensor being located in the mounting space.

[0015] In some embodiments, the sensor is disposed within a first enclosed space, one end of the guide tube is connected to a second enclosed space, and the other end extends to the sensor.

[0016] In some embodiments, the second enclosure includes a support plate and a sealing gasket. The support plate has an installation opening facing the side plate and an assembly opening away from the side plate. The sealing gasket is assembled at the assembly opening to form a second enclosed space together with the support plate and the side plate.

[0017] In some implementations, the sealing gasket is fitted to the assembly port by an interference snap.

[0018] In some embodiments, a flow guide hole is formed on the sealing gasket or support plate to communicate with the second enclosed space, and the guide tube communicates with the second enclosed space through the flow guide hole.

[0019] In some embodiments, the support plate is provided with a support member for supporting and limiting the pipe.

[0020] In some embodiments, the support member is provided with a receiving cavity whose shape is adapted to the shape of the pipe.

[0021] In some embodiments, the support plate is provided with reinforcing ribs, which connect the support member to the side wall of the support plate.

[0022] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0027] Figure 4 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0028] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first enclosure component according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 6 This is another structural schematic diagram of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0030] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second enclosure component according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0031] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the sealing gasket according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 9 This is a structural schematic diagram of the support plate according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 100, Air conditioner; 10, Housing; 11, Face frame; 12, Back panel; 13, Mounting sheet metal; 14, Water tray; 20, Heat exchanger; 21, Side panel; 22, Pipe; 23, Main body; 24, Input / output pipe; 25, U-shaped pipe; 30, Enclosure component; 31, First enclosure component; 32, Slot; 33, Limiting block; 34, Second enclosure component; 35, Sealing gasket; 36, Flow guide hole; 40, Sensor; 50, Enclosed space; 51, First enclosed space; 52, Second enclosed space; 60, Support plate; 61, Mounting port; 62, Assembly port; 63, Support component; 64, Receiving cavity; 65, Reinforcing rib; 70, Guide pipe; 80, Installation space. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The embodiments of this utility model 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 this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model.

[0035] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship, are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description. They 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, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the stated features. In the description of this utility model, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0036] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows for communication; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0037] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0038] The following disclosure provides many different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of this invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples; such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. In addition, examples of various specific processes and materials are provided in this invention, but those skilled in the art will recognize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0039] See also Figures 1-4 The air conditioner 100 of this application includes a housing 10, a heat exchanger 20, a baffle 30, and a sensor 40. The heat exchanger 20 is disposed inside the housing 10, and the baffle 30 is disposed inside the housing 10. The baffle 30, the heat exchanger 20, and the housing 10 form an enclosed space 50. The enclosed space 50 is used to collect refrigerant leaked inside the housing 10, and the sensor 40 is used to detect the refrigerant concentration inside the enclosed space 50.

[0040] In this way, the enclosed space 50 can collect the refrigerant leaking inside the casing 10, reduce refrigerant overflow, improve the timeliness and accuracy of sensor 40 detection, and thus improve the safety of air conditioner 100.

[0041] Specifically, the air conditioner 100 can be an integrated air conditioning unit or an indoor air conditioning unit. The casing 10 can be the outer shell of the air conditioner 100 that connects to the external environment.

[0042] Taking air conditioner 100 as an indoor unit as an example, heat exchanger 20 can be an evaporator. When airflow passes over the surface of the evaporator, heat exchange occurs to achieve the purpose of cooling. The refrigerant leaking inside the casing 10 includes, but is not limited to, the refrigerant leaking from the heat exchanger 20, and can also be the refrigerant leaking from other components inside the casing 10.

[0043] The enclosure 30, heat exchanger 20, and shell 10 can form an open enclosure space 50 or a closed enclosure space 50.

[0044] Sensor 40 can be either a metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) sensor or a non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) sensor. The MOS sensor operates based on the principle that the resistivity of certain semiconductor materials changes as certain gases react on the semiconductor surface. Therefore, measuring the resistance of the MOS sensor can determine the concentration of refrigerant in the air within the enclosed space 50. The NDIR sensor, on the other hand, is based on spectral analysis. Different gas molecules have unique infrared absorption characteristics: by measuring the infrared absorption along a short transmission path, the NDIR sensor can determine the refrigerant concentration within the enclosed space 50.

[0045] See also Figure 3 In some embodiments, the heat exchanger 20 includes a side plate 21 and a pipe 22. The side plate 21 is disposed on at least one side of the heat exchanger 20 along its length, the pipe 22 is disposed on the side plate 21 and extends outward along the length of the heat exchanger 20, and the enclosure member 30 is disposed on the side of the side plate 21 away from the heat exchanger 20.

[0046] This creates an enclosed space 50 on at least one side of the heat exchanger 20 along its length, allowing for the detection of refrigerant concentration on at least one side of the heat exchanger 20 along its length.

[0047] Specifically, in one embodiment, the heat exchanger 20 includes a body 23, the length direction of the heat exchanger 20 can be the length direction of the body 23, and a side plate 21 is disposed at at least one end of the body 23.

[0048] Pipe 22 can be an input / output pipe 24 or a U-shaped pipe 25, and the input / output pipe 24 and the U-shaped pipe 25 can be located at both ends of the main body 23 respectively. Pipe 22 can be connected to the end face of the main body 23 by welding. During the long-term use of the air conditioner 100, the refrigerant may leak from the connection between pipe 22 and the main body 23, or from other places on pipe 22, or from other piping components on the heat exchanger 20 side.

[0049] The side plate 21 can be disposed on one side of the heat exchanger 20 along its length, so that the enclosure 30 can be disposed on one side of the heat exchanger 20 along its length; the side plate 21 can be disposed on both sides of the heat exchanger 20 along its length, so that the enclosure 30 can be disposed on both sides of the heat exchanger 20 along its length.

[0050] See also Figures 1-5In some embodiments, the enclosure 30 includes a first enclosure 31, the enclosing space 50 includes a first enclosing space 51, the first enclosure 31 has a slot 32 formed thereon, the first enclosure 31 is engaged with the pipe 22 through the slot 32, and the first enclosure 31, the heat exchanger 20 and the shell 10 enclose the first enclosing space 51.

[0051] In this way, the first enclosure component 31 can be detachably snapped onto the pipe 22 through the slot 32, which not only ensures a stable connection but also facilitates easy assembly and disassembly, thereby improving manufacturing efficiency.

[0052] Specifically, the first barrier 31 can be disposed on one side of the input / output pipe 24. The first barrier 31 can be made of materials such as rubber or foam to improve the sealing performance of the first barrier 31 disposed on the input / output pipe 24.

[0053] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 5 In some embodiments, the first enclosure member 31 is provided with at least one pair of limiting blocks 33, and two of the limiting blocks 33 in the at least one pair of limiting blocks 33 are arranged opposite each other to form a groove 32, the shape of the groove 32 being adapted to the shape of the pipe 22.

[0054] Thus, at least one pair of limiting blocks 33 can form at least one slot 32, allowing the first enclosure member 31 to engage with at least one pipe 22 to block refrigerant injection at at least one pipe 22, thereby reducing refrigerant spillage within the first enclosed space 51. The shape of the slot 32 is adapted to the shape of the pipe 22, ensuring a good fit between the first enclosure member 31 and the pipe 22.

[0055] Specifically, the limiting block 33 can be integrally formed with the first enclosure member 31 or it can be formed separately. The shape of the slot 32 can be consistent with the shape of the pipe 22. For example, if the pipe 22 is a circular pipe, then at least two of the limiting blocks 33 in a pair are recessed inward to form an arc shape so that the slot 32 is a circular groove.

[0056] Please see Figure 3 In some embodiments, the shape of the first enclosure 31 is adapted to the shape of the side plate 21, and the first enclosure 31 is engaged with the pipe 22 near the edge of the side plate 21.

[0057] In this way, the first enclosure 31 can enclose all the pipes 22 located on the side plate 21 to reduce the refrigerant from overflowing from the edge of the side plate 21, thereby improving the timeliness and accuracy of the sensor 40 detection.

[0058] Specifically, a limiting block 33 is provided on the inner side of the first enclosure member 31 to form a slot 32. The shape of the outer side of the first enclosure member 31 can be consistent with the shape of the edge of the side plate 21. For example, if the edge of the side plate 21 is arc-shaped, then the outer side of the first enclosure member 31 is arc-shaped; or, for example, if the edge of the side plate 21 is bent, then the outer side of the first enclosure member 31 is bent. The dimensions of the outer side of the first enclosure member 31 can be the same as the dimensions of the edge of the side plate 21.

[0059] See also Figure 3 In some embodiments, the shape of the enclosure 30 is adapted to the shape of the lower half of the side plate 21, and the enclosure 30 is engaged with the pipe 22 located in the lower half of the side plate 21 and near the edge of the side plate 21.

[0060] Since the refrigerant is denser than air, it tends to accumulate downwards under the influence of gravity. Therefore, the enclosure 30 encloses the pipe 22 located in the lower half of the side plate 21, which reduces the refrigerant from overflowing from the edge of the lower half of the side plate 21, thereby improving the timeliness and accuracy of the sensor 40's detection.

[0061] See also Figures 1-3 In some embodiments, the housing 10 includes a face frame 11 and a back plate 12. The first enclosure member 31, the face frame 11, the back plate 12 and the side plate 21 form a first enclosure space 51, and the sensor 40 is disposed in the first enclosure space 51.

[0062] This allows the refrigerant to accumulate in the first enclosed space 51, making it easier for the sensor 40 to accurately detect the refrigerant concentration in the first enclosed space 51.

[0063] Specifically, the faceplate 11 can be a cover structure, and the faceplate 11 and the backplate 12 can be made of materials such as metal or plastic. The faceplate 11 and the backplate 12 can be separate structures. The heat exchanger 20 and the sensor 40 can be installed on the backplate 12 first, and then the faceplate 11 can be installed on the backplate 12 to cover the heat exchanger 20.

[0064] The sensor 40 can be directly mounted on the lower half of the back plate 12, for example, by designing screw holes in the back plate 12 to fix the sensor 40, or by using foam to attach the sensor 40 to the back plate 12. The sensor 40 can also be mounted on the lower half of the back plate 12 via a mounting sheet 13, for example, the sensor 40 is mounted on the mounting sheet 13, which is located on the lower half of the back plate 12.

[0065] See also Figures 1-3 In some embodiments, the air conditioner 100 includes a water tray 14 disposed inside the housing 10, the water tray 14 being at least partially located within the first enclosing space 51, the water tray 14 being disposed below the heat exchanger 20, and the sensor 40 being disposed below the water tray 14.

[0066] Thus, the water tray 14 is located below the heat exchanger 20, and can be used to collect water droplets formed by the condensation of water vapor on or near the evaporator when the air conditioner 100 is cooling. The sensor 40 is located below the water tray 14, which can reduce the influence of the sensor 40 on the water tray 14 while realizing refrigerant detection.

[0067] Specifically, the water receiving tray 14 may be partially or entirely located within the first enclosed space 51. The water receiving tray 14 may be located on one side of the main body 23 or on both sides of the main body 23.

[0068] See also Figure 6 In some embodiments, the enclosure 30 further includes a second enclosure 34, which, together with the heat exchanger 20, forms a second enclosed space 52. This allows the refrigerant to accumulate in the second enclosed space 52, facilitating accurate detection of the refrigerant concentration in the second enclosed space 52 by the sensor 40. The second enclosure 34 may be disposed on one side of the U-shaped tube 25.

[0069] See also Figure 1 and Figure 6 In some embodiments, the air conditioner 100 includes a guide tube 70 that extends from a first enclosing space 51 and / or a second enclosing space 52 to a sensor 40.

[0070] In this way, by guiding the refrigerant through the guide tube 70, the refrigerant can be concentrated, improving the detection accuracy of the sensor 40. At the same time, it allows one sensor 40 to detect the refrigerant concentration within at least one enclosed space 50, improving safety while reducing manufacturing costs and saving installation space.

[0071] Specifically, the guide tube 70 can guide the refrigerant in the first enclosed space 51 to the sensor 40, or guide the refrigerant in the second enclosed space 52 to the sensor 40, or guide the refrigerant in the first enclosed space 51 and the second enclosed space 52 to the sensor 40.

[0072] The sensor 40 can be mounted on the housing 10 or the main body 23 outside the enclosing space 50. The sensor 40 can be mounted at different locations outside the enclosing space 50, improving the ease of installation. The guide tube 70 can be a straight tube or a bent tube. The guide tube 70 can be a round tube or a square tube. The guide tube 70 can be made of materials such as copper or PVC.

[0073] See also Figure 1 and Figure 6In some embodiments, the housing 10 includes a face frame 11 and a back plate 12, the face frame 11 and the back plate 12 forming an accommodating space, the heat exchanger 20 extending through the accommodating space along the length direction, the accommodating space and the first enclosing space 51 and the second enclosing space 52 being arranged side by side along the length direction of the heat exchanger 20, and the back plate 12 having a recessed mounting space 80 on the side away from the heat exchanger 20, the sensor 40 being located in the mounting space 80.

[0074] Thus, the sensor 40 is placed in the installation space 80, so that part of the guide tube 70 is located in the installation space 80, which can protect the guide tube 70, reduce the risk of the guide tube 70 breaking due to external impact, and thus extend the service life of the guide tube 70.

[0075] Specifically, the shape of the accommodating space can be consistent with the shape of the main body 23. For example, if the main body 23 is a cylinder, then the accommodating space is a cylinder. The accommodating space can be located between the first enclosing space 51 and the second enclosing space 52.

[0076] The installation space 80 can be enclosed by the back plate 12, the front frame 11, and the mounting wall. The installation space 80 and the accommodating space can be arranged side by side along the width direction of the heat exchanger 20. The first enclosing space 51 can be directly connected to the installation space 80, and the second enclosing space 52 can be connected to the installation space 80 through the guide pipe 70. The input / output pipe 24 can extend from the first enclosing space 51 to the installation space 80 to connect to the outdoor unit of the air conditioner. The sensor 40 can be installed on the back plate 12 of the installation space 80.

[0077] See also Figure 1 and Figure 6 In some embodiments, the sensor 40 is disposed within the first enclosed space 51, one end of the guide tube 70 is connected to the second enclosed space 52, and the other end extends to the sensor 40.

[0078] Thus, by connecting the first enclosed space 51 and the second enclosed space 52 through the guide tube 70, a sensor 40 can detect the refrigerant concentration in both enclosed spaces 50, which improves safety while reducing manufacturing costs and saving installation space.

[0079] Specifically, the end of the guide tube 70 that connects to the second enclosed space 52 can be higher than the end of the guide tube 70 that extends to the sensor 40, so that the refrigerant can be transferred to the sensor 40 along the guide tube 70 under the action of gravity, thereby improving the refrigerant transfer efficiency.

[0080] See also Figure 6 and Figure 7In some embodiments, the second enclosure 34 includes a support plate 60 and a sealing gasket 35. The support plate 60 has an installation port 61 facing the side plate 21 and an assembly port 62 away from the side plate 21. The sealing gasket 35 is assembled at the assembly port 62 to form a second enclosure space 52 together with the support plate 60 and the side plate 21.

[0081] Thus, the second enclosure 34 can be formed by the support plate 60 and the sealing gasket 35, which can serve as a seal while also supporting the heat exchanger 20.

[0082] Specifically, the support plate 60 can support the heat exchanger 20, and the heat exchanger 20 with the support plate 60 can be installed on the air conditioner 100 through the support plate 60, thereby avoiding the use of additional installation structures.

[0083] The mounting port 61 and assembly port 62 are respectively located on opposite sides of the support plate 60. The shapes of the support plate 60 and the sealing gasket 35 are adapted to the shape of the side plate 21, so that the support plate 60 can better fit with the side plate 21. The sealing gasket 35 is a contoured sealing gasket 35, which can better fit with the support plate 60 and improve the sealing performance of the second enclosing space 52 to a certain extent.

[0084] In some embodiments, the support plate 60 is a plastic support plate 60, and / or the sealing gasket 35 is an elastic gasket.

[0085] Therefore, the support plate 60 is easy to manufacture, and the sealing gasket 35 can fit tightly with the support plate 60 to improve the sealing performance of the second enclosing space 52.

[0086] Specifically, in one embodiment, the support plate 60 is a plastic support plate 60 and the sealing gasket 35 is an elastic gasket. In one embodiment, the support plate 60 is a plastic support plate 60, or the sealing gasket 35 is an elastic gasket.

[0087] The support plate 60 is made of plastic and can be manufactured as a single piece using injection molding, which is simple, efficient, and low-cost. The plastic support plate 60 can also effectively support the heat exchanger 20.

[0088] The sealing gasket 35 is an elastic gasket, allowing for elastic deformation during assembly with the support plate 60. The elastically deformed gasket 35 tends to recover its original shape, and under the constraint of the support plate 60, it can connect more tightly to the support plate 60, thus improving the sealing performance of the second enclosing space 52 to some extent. Optionally, the material of the sealing gasket 35 may include, but is not limited to, rubber or silicone. The sealing gasket 35 may also be a one-piece molded structure.

[0089] In some embodiments, the sealing gasket 35 is fitted to the mounting opening by an interference snap. In this way, the sealing gasket 35 and the support plate 60 can be assembled without screws.

[0090] Specifically, the sealing gasket 35 and the support plate 60 are connected by an interference fit. On the one hand, the interference fit allows for a tighter connection between the sealing gasket 35 and the support plate 60. The amount of interference fit can be determined according to actual needs, and this utility model does not impose a specific limitation on it.

[0091] On the other hand, the snap-fit ​​connection method can fix the gasket 35 and the support plate 60 together, preventing the gasket 35 from separating from the support plate 60 when the air conditioner 100 vibrates due to transportation or installation. In summary, the gasket 35 and the support plate 60 can be assembled together without screws, and both the gasket 35 and the support plate 60 have high manufacturability.

[0092] Optionally, the end of the sealing gasket 35 facing the support plate 60 can be fitted into the assembly port 62 by interference fit, so that the sealing gasket 35 can effectively seal the assembly port 62 and improve the sealing performance of the second enclosing space 52.

[0093] One of the sealing gasket 35 and the support plate 60 is provided with a buckle, and the other is provided with a buckle hole. The buckle is engaged in the buckle hole, thereby fixing the sealing gasket 35 and the support plate 60 by means of buckle.

[0094] Alternatively, in other embodiments, hot melt adhesive can be added to bond the sealing gasket 35 and the support plate 60, or screws can be added to fix and connect the sealing gasket 35 and the support plate 60.

[0095] See also Figure 6 and Figure 8 In some embodiments, a guide hole 36 communicating with the second enclosing space 52 is formed on the sealing gasket 35 or the support plate 60, and the guide tube 70 communicates with the second enclosing space 52 through the guide hole 36.

[0096] Thus, the refrigerant in the second enclosed space 52 can enter the guide tube 70 through the guide hole 36 and be transmitted to the sensor 40, thereby enabling the sensor 40 outside the second enclosed space 52 to detect the refrigerant concentration in the second enclosed space 52.

[0097] Specifically, the shape of the guide hole 36 can be consistent with the shape of the guide tube 70. For example, if the guide tube 70 is a circular tube, then the guide hole 36 is a circular hole. The guide hole 36 can be located at the bottom of the sealing gasket 35 or the support plate 60. In one embodiment, the guide hole 36 is located on the upper part of the sealing gasket 35, which facilitates the installation of the guide tube 70. The guide tube 70 can be a straight tube to minimize its length and the refrigerant transmission path, thereby saving manufacturing costs while improving the detection timeliness of the sensor 40.

[0098] See also Figure 9 In some embodiments, the support plate 60 is provided with a support member 63, which supports and limits the pipe 22. This can improve the stability of the pipe 22.

[0099] Specifically, please combine Figure 9 The pipe 22 is exposed outside the main body 23 and located in the second enclosed space 52. If the air conditioner 100 vibrates due to factors such as transportation or installation, the pipe 22 may also vibrate, which may easily lead to deformation of the pipe 22 or separation from the main body 23.

[0100] The support member 63 can support and limit the pipe 22 within the second enclosed space 52, thereby reducing the vibration of the pipe 22 and improving its stability to a certain extent.

[0101] exist Figure 9 In this configuration, the support member 63 is disposed within the second enclosed space 52 portion of the support plate 60. The support member 63 can connect to the inner wall of the second enclosed space 52 and also acts as a reinforcing rib, improving the structural strength of the support plate 60 and further enhancing the installation stability of the heat exchanger 20.

[0102] See also Figure 9 In some embodiments, the support member 63 is provided with a receiving cavity 64, the shape of which is adapted to the shape of the pipe 22. In this way, the support member 63 provides high stability in limiting the pipe 22.

[0103] Specifically, in Figure 9 In the process, the pipe 22 is U-shaped, and the shape of the receiving cavity 64 is adapted to the external shape of the U-shape. Thus, when the pipe 22 is assembled in the receiving cavity 64, the receiving cavity 64 fits the pipe 22 well, reducing the adverse effects of vibration on the pipe 22 during the use and transportation of the air conditioner 100. This can reduce or avoid the deformation of the pipe 22 and, to a certain extent, ensure the service life of the heat exchanger 20.

[0104] See also Figure 9 In some embodiments, the support plate 60 is provided with reinforcing ribs 65, which connect the support member 63 to the side wall of the support plate 60. Thus, the reinforcing ribs 65 can increase the strength of the support plate 60.

[0105] Specifically, in one embodiment, the support member 63 is used to support and limit the pipe 22, and the support member 63 is provided with a receiving cavity 64. The reinforcing rib 65 can connect the support member 63 and the side wall of the support plate 60, thereby strengthening the support member 63 and effectively supporting and limiting the pipe 22. During the use of the air conditioner 100, the reinforcing rib 65 can prevent the support member 63 from deforming or cracking due to the force of the pipe 22, and improve the strength of the support plate 60 to a certain extent.

[0106] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this utility model. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0107] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An air conditioner, characterized in that, include: case; The heat exchanger is disposed within the housing; A containment component is disposed within the housing, and the containment component, the heat exchanger, and the housing form an enclosed space for collecting refrigerant leaking from the housing. and A sensor is used to detect the refrigerant concentration within the enclosed space.

2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat exchanger includes a side plate and a pipe. The side plate is disposed on at least one side of the heat exchanger along its length. The pipe is disposed on the side plate and extends outward along the length of the heat exchanger. The enclosure is disposed on the side of the side plate away from the heat exchanger.

3. The air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that, The enclosure includes a first enclosure, the enclosed space includes a first enclosed space, the first enclosure has a slot formed thereon, the first enclosure is engaged with the pipe through the slot, and the first enclosure, the heat exchanger and the shell enclose the first enclosed space.

4. The air conditioner according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first enclosure component is provided with at least one pair of limiting blocks, and two of the limiting blocks in the at least one pair of limiting blocks are arranged opposite each other to form a groove, the shape of the groove being adapted to the shape of the pipe.

5. The air conditioner according to claim 3, characterized in that, The shape of the first enclosure member is adapted to the shape of the side plate, and the first enclosure member is engaged with the pipe near the edge of the side plate.

6. The air conditioner according to claim 5, characterized in that, The housing includes a front frame and a back plate. The first enclosure, the front frame, the back plate, and the side plates form the first enclosed space, and the sensor is disposed within the first enclosed space.

7. The air conditioner according to claim 6, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes a water receiving tray disposed inside the housing, the water receiving tray being at least partially located within the first enclosed space, the water receiving tray being disposed below the heat exchanger, and the sensor being disposed below the water receiving tray.

8. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 3-5, characterized in that, The enclosure also includes a second enclosure, which, together with the heat exchanger, forms a second enclosed space.

9. The air conditioner according to claim 8, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes a guide tube that extends from the first enclosed space and / or the second enclosed space to the sensor.

10. The air conditioner according to claim 9, characterized in that, The housing includes a face frame and a back plate, the face frame and the back plate forming an accommodating space, the heat exchanger extending through the accommodating space along its length, the accommodating space being arranged side by side with the first enclosing space and the second enclosing space along the length of the heat exchanger, the back plate having a recessed mounting space on the side away from the heat exchanger, and the sensor being located in the mounting space.

11. The air conditioner according to claim 9, characterized in that, The sensor is disposed within the first enclosed space, and one end of the guide tube is connected to the second enclosed space, while the other end extends to the sensor.

12. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 9-11, characterized in that, The second enclosure component includes a support plate and a sealing gasket. The support plate has an installation opening facing the side plate and an assembly opening away from the side plate. The sealing gasket is assembled at the assembly opening to form the second enclosure space together with the support plate and the side plate.

13. The air conditioner according to claim 12, characterized in that, The sealing gasket is fitted to the assembly port by an interference snap.

14. The air conditioner according to claim 12, characterized in that, The sealing gasket or the support plate has a flow guide hole that communicates with the second enclosed space, and the guide tube communicates with the second enclosed space through the flow guide hole.

15. The air conditioner according to claim 12, characterized in that, The support plate is provided with a support member, which is used to support and limit the pipe.

16. The air conditioner according to claim 15, characterized in that, The support member is provided with a receiving cavity, the shape of which is adapted to the shape of the pipe.

17. The air conditioner according to claim 16, characterized in that, The support plate is provided with reinforcing ribs, which connect the support member to the side wall of the support plate.

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