Outdoor unit with clothes airing function and air conditioner

By adding a clothes-drying structural component to the mesh cover of the outdoor unit of the air conditioner, the heat emitted can be used to dry clothes, solving the problem of wasted thermal energy resources and realizing energy reuse and multi-functionality improvement.

CN223512203UActive Publication Date: 2025-11-04NINGBO AUX ELECTRIC CO LTD +1
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202422902177.2
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-11-27
Publication Date
2025-11-04
Estimated Expiration
2034-11-27

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The heat from the outdoor units of existing air conditioning systems is not recovered or utilized, resulting in a waste of thermal energy resources.

Method used

Adding structural components to the outdoor unit's mesh cover allows for drying clothes, utilizing the heat emitted by the outdoor unit to dry the clothes and thus reusing thermal energy resources.

Benefits of technology

It enables energy reuse, improves energy efficiency, enhances the multifunctionality and practicality of the outdoor unit, and improves the user experience and convenience.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model provides an outdoor unit with a clothes airing function and an air conditioner. The mesh enclosure is mounted on the shell; the structural part is detachably mounted on the mesh enclosure; when the structural part is installed on the mesh enclosure, the structural part is used for airing clothes. The utility model solves the technical problem that heat energy resources are wasted as heat discharged by the outdoor unit is not recovered or utilized in other ways at present. According to the utility model, the structural member is additionally arranged on the mesh enclosure of the outdoor unit and is used for airing clothes, and heat discharged by the outdoor unit is used for drying the clothes, so that the recycling of heat energy resources is realized, and the energy waste is reduced.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and more specifically, to an outdoor unit and air conditioner with a clothes drying function. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, the outdoor unit casing of air conditioning systems is generally round or square, made of plastic, and assembled onto the overall unit. This casing is used to dissipate the heat generated by the unit's energy consumption. A motor-driven fan dissipates the heat outwards, thus cooling the internal components. However, current outdoor units, besides cooling the indoor unit, are not designed with other auxiliary functions. The heat dissipated by the outdoor unit is not recovered or utilized, resulting in a waste of thermal energy resources. Therefore, it is necessary to effectively utilize the heat dissipation from the outdoor unit to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy waste. Utility Model Content

[0003] This invention solves the technical problem of wasted thermal energy resources due to the lack of recovery or other utilization of heat emitted by outdoor units. By adding structural components to the outdoor unit's mesh cover for drying clothes, the heat emitted by the outdoor unit is used for clothes drying, thus realizing the reuse of thermal energy resources and reducing energy waste.

[0004] To solve the above problems, this utility model provides an outdoor unit with a clothes drying function, including: an outer shell; a mesh cover, the mesh cover being installed on the outer shell; and a structural component, the structural component being detachably installed on the mesh cover; wherein, when the structural component is installed on the mesh cover, the structural component is used for drying clothes.

[0005] Compared with existing technologies, the technical effects achieved by adopting this solution are as follows: By adding a clothes-drying function to the outdoor unit, the heat emitted by the outdoor unit can be used for drying clothes, realizing energy reuse and improving energy efficiency. At the same time, the addition of structural components allows for greater versatility of the outdoor unit's functions, enhancing its multifunctionality and practicality.

[0006] In one possible design, the structural component is at least one of a clothes dryer, a drying rack, or a drying tray.

[0007] Compared to existing technologies, the technical advantages of this solution include: structural components can be at least one of a clothes dryer, a drying rack, or a drying tray, enabling the outdoor unit to have multiple functions. Furthermore, users can select different structural components according to their needs, achieving personalized customization and improving product flexibility and applicability. Different functional structural components can be flexibly replaced and installed, making full use of the outdoor unit's space and improving space utilization. In addition, users can switch between different functions as needed, enhancing the user experience and convenience.

[0008] In one possible design, the structural components include a frame, fasteners, and supports. The frame is provided with at least one fastener and at least one support. When the frame is installed on the housing, the fasteners engage with the inside of the mesh cover, and the supports abut against the outside of the mesh cover or the housing.

[0009] Compared with existing technologies, the technical benefits of this solution are as follows: The frame is equipped with fasteners and supports. The fasteners engage with the inside of the mesh cover, while the supports abut against the outside of the mesh cover, making the overall structure more stable and improving the safety of the product. The design of the fasteners and supports makes installation simpler and faster, allowing users to easily complete the installation process and saving installation time and costs.

[0010] In one possible design, the frame is a hollow structure assembled from multiple poles.

[0011] Compared to existing technologies, the technical benefits of this solution are as follows: The hollow structure reduces overall weight compared to a solid structure, making the product lighter and easier to handle and install. The hollow structure also increases the strength and rigidity of the poles, making the frame more stable and durable, and extending the product's lifespan.

[0012] In one possible design, the frame, fastener 32, and support 33 are integrally molded and are made of plastic.

[0013] Compared with existing technologies, the technical advantages of this solution are as follows: One-piece molding improves the structural strength of components and increases their load-bearing capacity. Plastic parts are generally lighter than metal parts, reducing overall weight and making the product more portable, easier to handle, and easier to install. Plastic parts have good corrosion resistance, maintaining stable performance in harsh environments and extending product lifespan. Plastic parts have good insulation properties, preventing short circuits from affecting the frame and improving product safety. Plastic parts are typically cheaper to manufacture, reducing production costs and enhancing product competitiveness. Plastic parts can be manufactured into complex shapes through processes such as injection molding, enabling more diverse designs and increasing product customizability and aesthetics.

[0014] In one possible design, the fastener includes an overlap and a snap fastener, with one end of the overlap connected to the snap fastener and the other end connected to the frame; wherein, when the frame is installed on the shell, the overlap extends through and overlaps the mesh cover, and the snap fastener hooks onto the mesh cover from the inside.

[0015] Compared with existing technologies, the technical effects achieved by this solution are as follows: The design of the overlapping and fastening parts enables a more robust connection, improving the stability and safety between the frame, outer shell, and mesh cover. Simultaneously, it simplifies and speeds up the installation process, reducing installation time and labor costs. The overlapping part extends through and overlaps the mesh cover, while the fastening part hooks onto the inside of the mesh cover, increasing the overall structural stability and reducing the possibility of loosening and swaying.

[0016] In one possible design, the housing includes a shell and a panel, with the panel mounted on the shell; wherein a mesh cover is mounted at the mounting holes of the panel.

[0017] Compared with existing technologies, the technical advantages of this solution are as follows: Installing the mesh cover at the mounting holes of the panel simplifies the assembly process, reducing installation steps and time. Direct installation of the mesh cover onto the panel enhances the stability of the overall structure, reducing the possibility of loosening and wobbling. Simultaneously, it makes maintenance and replacement more convenient, reducing maintenance and time costs.

[0018] In one possible design, a fan is installed inside the housing, with the fan positioned opposite the grille; the fan is used to dissipate heat from inside the housing through the grille.

[0019] Compared to existing technologies, this technical solution achieves the following effects: the fan helps accelerate the circulation of heat within the casing, thus more effectively dissipating heat from the mesh cover and improving heat recovery efficiency. The fan also helps accelerate airflow in the clothes-drying area, improving drying efficiency and allowing clothes to dry faster. With the assistance of the fan, the heat emitted by the outdoor unit can be utilized more effectively, reducing energy waste and achieving energy conservation and environmental protection. This design combines the functions of an outdoor unit with clothes-drying capabilities, demonstrating the multi-functionality of the outdoor unit and enhancing the product's added value and competitiveness.

[0020] In one possible design, the mesh cover is a grid mesh cover.

[0021] Compared with existing technologies, the technical effects achieved by adopting this solution are as follows: the grille design enhances airflow, helping to dissipate heat more quickly and improving heat dissipation efficiency. At the same time, the grille provides more mounting positions for structural components, making disassembly and installation more convenient, effectively saving installation time, reducing installation difficulty, and improving the user experience.

[0022] This utility model also provides an air conditioner, which includes an outdoor unit with a clothes drying function.

[0023] Compared with the prior art, the technical effects achieved by adopting this technical solution are as follows: The air conditioner of this utility model includes the outdoor unit with clothes drying function of any technical solution of this utility model. Therefore, it has all the beneficial effects of the outdoor unit of any technical solution of this utility model, which will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of an outdoor unit with a clothes drying function provided in this embodiment of the utility model. Figure 1 ;

[0025] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of an outdoor unit with a clothes drying function provided in this embodiment of the utility model. Figure 2 ;

[0026] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of an outdoor unit with a clothes drying function provided in this embodiment of the utility model. Figure 3 ;

[0027] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Enlarged view of region A in the middle;

[0028] Figure 5 This is a structural schematic diagram of the structural component provided in an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0029] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0030] 10-Outer shell; 11-Shell; 12-Panel; 13-Fan; 20-Fence; 30-Structural component; 31-Frame; 32-Fastening component; 321-Overlapping part; 322-Fastening part; 33-Supporting component. Detailed Implementation

[0031] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features and advantages of this utility model more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] See Figures 1 to 5 This embodiment provides an outdoor unit with a clothes drying function, including: a housing 10, a mesh cover 20, and a structural component 30. The mesh cover 20 is installed on the housing 10; the structural component 30 is detachably installed on the mesh cover 20; wherein, when the structural component 30 is installed on the mesh cover 20, the structural component 30 is used for drying clothes.

[0033] Specifically, in this embodiment, the mesh cover 20 is detachably installed on the outer casing 10, and the structural component 30 is snapped onto the mesh cover 20. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner absorbs heat from the room by circulating refrigerant and then releases the heat to the outside. During this process, the outdoor unit generates a certain amount of hot air. By adding the structural component 30 to the outdoor unit, when clothes are hung to dry on the structural component 30, the clothes are exposed to this hot air. The temperature and flow rate of the hot air help accelerate the evaporation of moisture from the surface of the clothes, thereby achieving a rapid drying effect.

[0034] In one embodiment of this utility model, the structural component 30 is at least one of a clothes drying rack, a drying rack, or a drying tray.

[0035] Specifically, a clothes dryer is typically a rack structure used to hang clothes and allow them to air dry naturally. Clothes dryers are suitable for drying various types of clothing, including clothes, blankets, and towels. A drying rack is usually a multi-tiered structure, allowing multiple items to be dried simultaneously. Drying racks are suitable for drying small items such as clothes, socks, and underwear, as well as lighter garments. A drying tray is typically a tray-shaped structure, such as a woven drying tray or a round dustpan; drying trays are suitable for drying lighter garments such as underwear and socks.

[0036] In one embodiment of the present invention, the structural component 30 includes a frame 31, a fastening component 32, and a support component 33. The frame 31 is provided with at least one fastening component 32 and at least one support component 33. When the frame 31 is installed on the outer shell 10, the fastening component 32 is engaged with the inner side of the mesh cover 20, and the support component 33 abuts against the outer side of the mesh cover 20 or the outer shell 10.

[0037] Specifically, in this embodiment, the frame 31 is provided with two fastening members 32 and two supporting members 33; the two supporting members 33 are located at both ends of one side of the frame 31, and the two fastening members 32 are located between the two supporting members 33. When the frame 31 is snapped onto the mesh cover 20, the two fastening members 32 are inserted into the mesh cover 20 and hooked onto the mesh cover 20 from the inside; while the two supporting members 33 abut against the mesh cover 20 or the outer shell 10 from the outside. By having the two fastening members 32 hook onto the mesh cover 20 from the inside, the connection between the frame 31 and the mesh cover 20 can be ensured to be more secure and less prone to loosening or falling off. At the same time, the two supporting members 33 abut against the mesh cover 20 or the outer shell 10 from the outside, increasing the stability of the overall structure.

[0038] In one embodiment of this utility model, the frame 31 is a frame assembled from multiple rods and has a hollow structure.

[0039] Specifically, in this embodiment, the rack 31 is a rectangular frame composed of three horizontal bars and six vertical bars, which increases the comprehensiveness of the rack 31 for drying clothes. Various types of clothing can be hung on the horizontal or vertical bars, while shoes or blankets can be placed directly on the rack surface. The three horizontal bars and six vertical bars provide ample hanging positions. The hollow structure increases the strength and rigidity of the bars, making the rack 31 more stable and durable.

[0040] In one embodiment of this utility model, the frame 31, the fastener 32 and the support 33 are integrally formed and are made of plastic.

[0041] Specifically, in this embodiment, the integrally formed frame 31, fastener 32, and support 33 reduce the number of joints, avoiding the problem of reduced structural strength due to weakened joints, and improving the overall strength of the parts. The plastic material helps to reduce the overall weight of the structural component 30, thereby reducing the pressure on the mesh cover 20 and the outer shell 10.

[0042] In one embodiment of the present invention, the fastening member 32 includes an overlapping part 321 and a fastening part 322. One end of the overlapping part 321 is connected to the fastening part 322, and the other end is connected to the frame 31. When the frame 31 is installed on the outer shell 10, the overlapping part 321 passes through and overlaps the mesh cover 20, and the fastening part 322 hooks the mesh cover 20 from the inside.

[0043] Specifically, in this embodiment, the overlapping part 321 and the fastening part 322 are arranged alternately. When the fastening member 32 is inserted and snapped into the mesh cover 20, the overlapping part 321 overlaps the mesh cover 20, and the fastening part 322 hooks into the inside of the mesh cover 20.

[0044] In one embodiment of the present invention, the outer shell 10 includes a housing 11 and a panel 12, the panel 12 being mounted on the housing 11; wherein, the mesh cover 20 is mounted at the mounting hole of the panel 12.

[0045] Specifically, in this embodiment, the outer casing 10 is a rectangular casing, and a panel 12 is installed on one side of the outer casing 10. The panel 12 is provided with a mounting hole for the mesh cover 20 to be installed. The mesh cover 20 is detachably installed at the mounting hole of the panel 12, and the heat inside the outdoor unit is discharged from the mounting hole.

[0046] In one embodiment of the present invention, a fan 13 is installed inside the outer casing 10, and the fan 13 is disposed corresponding to the mesh cover 20; wherein, the fan 13 is used to exhaust heat inside the outer casing 10 from the mesh cover 20.

[0047] Specifically, a fan 13 is installed inside the outer casing 10. The airflow from the fan 13 can effectively expel heat from inside the outer casing 10 through the mesh cover 20. This expelled hot air not only helps maintain ventilation inside the outer casing 10, but also quickly dries clothes on the structural component 30.

[0048] In one embodiment of this utility model, the mesh cover 20 is a grid mesh cover.

[0049] Specifically, a grille cover is an outer cover with a mesh structure, typically used to cover the outdoor unit of an air conditioner. Its main function is to prevent debris, dust, small animals, etc., from entering the interior of the outdoor unit, protecting the air conditioning equipment from the influence of the external environment. It also provides a certain degree of safety protection, preventing accidental contact or injury. The grille cover also helps keep the outdoor unit clean, reducing the frequency of cleaning and maintenance, and extending the service life of the air conditioning equipment. In this embodiment, the grille cover facilitates the installation of structural component 30.

[0050] In one embodiment of this utility model, an air conditioner is also provided, which includes an outdoor unit with a clothes drying function.

[0051] Specifically, the air conditioner of this utility model includes the outdoor unit with clothes drying function of any technical solution of this utility model. Therefore, it has all the beneficial effects of the outdoor unit of any technical solution of this utility model, which will not be repeated here.

[0052] Although the present invention has been disclosed above, it is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can make various modifications and alterations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope defined in the claims.

Claims

1. An outdoor unit with a clothes-drying function, characterized in that, include: Outer shell (10); A mesh cover (20) is installed on the outer shell (10); Structural component (30), which is detachably mounted on the mesh cover (20); When the structural component (30) is installed on the net cover (20), the structural component (30) is used for drying clothes.

2. The outdoor unit with clothes drying function according to claim 1, characterized in that, The structural component (30) is at least one of a clothes dryer, a drying rack, or a drying tray.

3. The outdoor unit with clothes drying function according to claim 1, characterized in that, The structural component (30) includes a frame (31), a fastener (32) and a support (33), wherein the frame (31) is provided with at least one fastener (32) and at least one support (33). When the frame (31) is installed on the outer shell (10), the fastener (32) is snapped into the inner side of the mesh cover (20), and the support (33) abuts against the outer side of the mesh cover (20) or the outer shell (10).

4. The outdoor unit with clothes drying function according to claim 3, characterized in that, The frame (31) is a hollow structure assembled from multiple rods.

5. The outdoor unit with clothes drying function according to claim 3, characterized in that, The frame (31), the fastener (32) and the support (33) are integrally formed and are made of plastic.

6. The outdoor unit with clothes drying function according to claim 3, characterized in that, The fastener (32) includes an overlap (321) and a fastening part (322), one end of the overlap (321) is connected to the fastening part (322), and the other end is connected to the frame (31). When the frame (31) is installed on the outer shell (10), the overlapping part (321) passes through and overlaps the mesh cover (20), and the fastening part (322) hooks the mesh cover (20) from the inside.

7. The outdoor unit with clothes drying function according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer casing (10) includes a housing (11) and a panel (12), the panel (12) being mounted on the housing (11); wherein the mesh cover (20) is mounted at the mounting hole of the panel (12).

8. The outdoor unit with clothes drying function according to claim 1, characterized in that, A fan (13) is installed inside the outer casing (10), and the fan (13) is provided corresponding to the mesh cover (20); wherein, the fan (13) is used to exhaust the heat inside the outer casing (10) from the mesh cover (20).

9. The outdoor unit with clothes drying function according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mesh cover (20) is a grid mesh cover.

10. An air conditioner, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes an outdoor unit with a clothes drying function as described in any one of claims 1-9.