Volute assembly, centrifugal fan and indoor unit

Abstract

The utility model provides a volute assembly, a centrifugal fan and an indoor unit. The volute assembly includes: a fixed volute; a movable volute; and overlapping the sealing assembly. According to the volute assembly, the centrifugal fan and the indoor unit, the lap joint sealing assembly is arranged on the fixed volute and matched with the movable volute in a lap joint mode, the lap joint sealing assembly can seal the connecting position of the movable volute and the fixed volute, the problem of local leakage at the connecting position in the prior art is avoided, and the energy efficiency of the centrifugal fan is guaranteed; in addition, the lap joint sealing assembly can compensate for the coaxiality deviation of the movable volute and the fixed volute, the lap joint sealing assembly extends towards the movable volute to limit movement of the movable volute, and it is guaranteed that the position of the movable volute in the first state or the second state is accurate; and therefore, the working reliability of the volute assembly and the centrifugal fan is ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of air handling equipment technology, and in particular to a volute assembly, a centrifugal fan, and an indoor unit. Background Technology

[0002] With the widespread use of air conditioning, users have placed higher demands on its comfort, especially regarding indoor airflow organization and distribution. Due to the density difference between cold and hot air, to meet higher requirements for indoor comfort, it is necessary to adopt side-discharge of cold air and bottom-discharge of hot air to achieve the effect of "waterfall-like cooling and carpet-like heating." The key to achieving this lies in the design of a variable-direction air outlet fan.

[0003] Centrifugal fans typically consist of an impeller and a volute. The volute concentrates and guides the gas leaving the impeller, further converting some of its kinetic energy into static pressure. The proper design of the volute profile plays a crucial role in the fan's performance.

[0004] Existing variable-direction centrifugal fans include a volute and forward-curving multi-blade centrifugal impellers. The volute consists of a fixed volute and a movable volute. The movable volute can rotate within the fixed volute to shield and open different air outlets on the fixed volute, thereby adjusting the airflow direction of the centrifugal fan. However, due to coaxiality errors in the assembly of the fixed and movable volutes, the fixed volute cannot accurately constrain the position of the movable volute, and localized leakage at the connection point results in significant pressure loss, severely impacting the energy efficiency of the centrifugal fan. Utility Model Content

[0005] To address the technical problem of leakage at the connection between the movable and fixed volutes of centrifugal fans in existing technologies, which affects the energy efficiency of centrifugal fans, a volute assembly, a centrifugal fan, and an indoor unit are provided, which have an overlapping sealing component on the fixed volute that cooperates with the movable volute to ensure a sealing effect.

[0006] A volute assembly, comprising:

[0007] A fixed volute, on which a first air outlet and a second air outlet are formed;

[0008] The movable volute is movably disposed on the fixed volute, and the movable volute has a first state of opening the first air outlet and closing the second air outlet, and a second state of opening the second air outlet and closing the first air outlet.

[0009] An overlapping sealing assembly is disposed on the fixed volute, and when the movable volute is in a first state or a second state, the movable volute overlaps with the overlapping sealing assembly.

[0010] The overlapping sealing assembly includes a first overlapping structure, a second overlapping structure, and a third overlapping structure arranged sequentially on the fixed volute in a counterclockwise direction. When the movable volute is in the first state, the movable volute overlaps with the first overlapping structure and the second overlapping structure; when the movable volute is in the second state, the movable volute overlaps with the first overlapping structure and the third overlapping structure.

[0011] The first overlapping structure, the second overlapping structure, and the portion of the fixed volute between the first overlapping structure and the second overlapping structure together constitute a first diffuser section, and the first air outlet communicates with the interior of the fixed volute through the first diffuser section; and / or, the first overlapping structure, the third overlapping structure, and the portion of the fixed volute between the first overlapping structure and the third overlapping structure together constitute a second diffuser section, and the second air outlet communicates with the interior of the fixed volute through the second diffuser section.

[0012] The movable volute has a first end and a second end. When the movable volute is in the first state, the first end overlaps with the first overlapping structure, and the second end overlaps with the second overlapping structure. When the movable volute is in the second state, the first end overlaps with the third overlapping structure, and the second end overlaps with the first overlapping structure.

[0013] The first overlapping structure has a first windward surface through which airflow passes and a first leeward surface opposite to the first windward surface. When the first end overlaps with the first overlapping structure, the inner wall of the movable volute smoothly transitions with the first windward surface; or, the plane where the first windward surface is located is tangent to the inner wall of the movable volute near the first end.

[0014] The third overlapping structure has a third airflow surface through which airflow passes and a third leeward surface opposite to the third airflow surface. When the first end overlaps with the first overlapping structure, the inner wall of the movable volute smoothly transitions with the third airflow surface; or, the plane where the third airflow surface is located is tangent to the inner wall of the movable volute near the first end.

[0015] The first end bends outward toward the movable volute to form a first clearance step, which engages with the first overlapping structure or with the third overlapping structure.

[0016] The third overlapping structure bends toward the third leeward side to form a third avoidance step, and the third avoidance step overlaps with the first avoidance step.

[0017] The clearance height of the first clearance step is equal to the wall thickness of the fixed volute (1); and / or, the clearance height of the third clearance step is a, and a=d+x, where d is the wall thickness of the fixed volute and x is the wall thickness of the movable volute.

[0018] The first overlapping structure also has a first overlapping end face located between the windward side and the leeward side, the first overlapping end face facing the interior of the fixed volute, and when the second end overlaps with the first overlapping structure, the inner wall of the movable volute smoothly transitions with the first overlapping end face; or, the plane where the first overlapping end face is located is tangent to the inner wall of the movable volute near the second end.

[0019] The second end bends outward toward the movable volute to form a first fitting structure. When the second end overlaps with the first overlapping structure, the first fitting structure fits with the first air passage surface. When the second end overlaps with the second overlapping structure, the first fitting structure fits with the second overlapping structure.

[0020] The fixed volute includes a first volute segment, a second volute segment, and a connecting segment. The first end of the first volute segment forms the first air outlet. The second end of the first volute segment is connected to the second volute segment through the connecting segment. The connecting segment constitutes the second overlapping structure. When the second end overlaps with the second overlapping structure, the first fitting structure and the connecting segment form a side fitting of the inner surface of the fixed volute.

[0021] The angle between the plane containing the side surface of the inner surface of the fixed volute formed by the connecting segment and the plane containing the first air passage surface is equal to the angle between the first air passage surface and the third air passage surface.

[0022] The first avoidance step has a first step plane that fits against the first leeward side, the first fitting structure has a first fitting surface that fits against the first windward side, and the angle between the plane on which the side of the inner surface of the fixed volute is located and the plane on which the first windward side is located is equal to the angle between the plane on which the first step plane is located and the plane on which the first fitting surface is located.

[0023] The first step has a first step plane that fits against the first leeward side, and the first fitting structure has a first fitting surface that fits against the first windward side. The angle between the plane containing the first step plane and the plane containing the first fitting surface is equal to the angle between the first windward side and the third windward side.

[0024] The included angle ranges from 100° to 130°.

[0025] The first air passage surface has an edge A close to the inside of the fixed volute, and the second end has an edge A' connected to the inner wall of the movable volute. When the second end overlaps with the first overlapping structure, edge A and edge A' fit together.

[0026] The first air passage surface has an edge A close to the interior of the fixed volute, and the side of the third clearance step that is in contact with the first clearance step has an edge B close to the interior of the fixed volute. The distance from edge A to the central axis of the fixed volute and the distance from edge B to the central axis of the fixed volute are equal.

[0027] The side of the third clearance step that is in contact with the first clearance step has an edge B close to the inside of the fixed volute. The relationship between the maximum distance R4 from the end face of the first end to the central axis of the fixed volute and the distance R1 from the edge B to the central axis of the fixed volute is: R1-R4=δ, where δ is the rotational deviation.

[0028] The third air passage surface has an edge C close to the interior of the fixed volute. The relationship between the maximum distance R5 from the first clearance step to the central axis of the fixed volute and the distance R2 from the edge C to the central axis of the fixed volute is: R2-R5=δ, where δ is the rotational deviation.

[0029] The relationship between the rotational deviation δ and the wall thickness d of the fixed volute is: 0.5d≤δ≤d.

[0030] The side of the third clearance step that is in contact with the first clearance step has an edge B that is close to the inside of the fixed volute. The relationship between the maximum distance R5 from the first clearance step to the central axis of the fixed volute and the distance R1 from the edge B to the central axis of the fixed volute is R5-R1=s, where s is the overlap distance.

[0031] The side of the connecting segment that forms the inner surface of the fixed volute has an edge D close to the inside of the fixed volute. The relationship between the maximum distance R6 from the first fitting structure to the central axis of the fixed volute and the distance R3 from the edge D to the central axis of the fixed volute is: R6-R3=s, where s is the overlap distance.

[0032] The relationship between the overlap distance s and the wall thickness d of the fixed volute is: 0.5d≤s≤d.

[0033] The air outlet of the first air outlet is parallel to the vertical direction; and / or, the air outlet of the second air outlet is parallel to the horizontal direction.

[0034] When the movable volute is in the first state or the movable volute is in the second state, the movable volute and a portion of the fixed volute form a complete volute-shaped structure.

[0035] A centrifugal fan includes the aforementioned volute assembly.

[0036] An indoor unit includes the aforementioned volute assembly or the aforementioned centrifugal fan.

[0037] The indoor unit also includes a housing, on which a side air outlet and a down air outlet are provided. The air outlet of the first air outlet points towards the down air outlet, and the air outlet of the second air outlet points towards the side air outlet.

[0038] The volute assembly, centrifugal fan, and indoor unit provided by this utility model feature an overlapping sealing component on the fixed volute that overlaps with the movable volute. This overlapping sealing component seals the connection between the movable and fixed volutes, preventing localized leakage issues found in existing technologies and ensuring the energy efficiency of the centrifugal fan. Furthermore, the overlapping sealing component compensates for coaxiality deviations between the movable and fixed volutes. By extending towards the movable volute, the overlapping sealing component limits its movement, ensuring accurate positioning of the movable volute in either the first or second state, thereby guaranteeing the reliability of the volute assembly and the centrifugal fan. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the volute assembly provided in an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0040] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fixed volute of the volute assembly provided in an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0041] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the fixed volute of the volute assembly provided in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0042] Figure 4 Another partial cross-sectional view of the fixing volute of the volute assembly provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0043] Figure 5 Another partial cross-sectional view of the fixing volute of the volute assembly provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0044] Figure 6 Another partial cross-sectional view of the fixing volute of the volute assembly provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0045] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of the movable volute of the volute assembly provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0046] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the movable volute of the volute assembly provided in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0047] Figure 9 A partial cross-sectional view of the movable volute of the volute assembly provided in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0048] Figure 10 Another partial cross-sectional view of the movable volute of the volute assembly provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0049] Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of the movable volute assembly provided in this embodiment of the utility model when the volute is in a first state;

[0050] Figure 12 A partial cross-sectional view of the movable volute assembly provided in this embodiment of the utility model when the movable volute is in a first state;

[0051] Figure 13 Another partial cross-sectional view of the movable volute assembly provided in this embodiment of the present invention in a first state;

[0052] Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the movable volute assembly provided in this embodiment of the utility model when the volute is in a second state;

[0053] Figure 15 Another partial cross-sectional view of the movable volute assembly provided in this embodiment of the present invention in the second state;

[0054] Figure 16 Another partial cross-sectional view of the movable volute assembly provided in this embodiment of the present invention in the second state;

[0055] Figure 17 A schematic diagram showing the rotational deviation and overlap distance of the movable volute assembly in the first state, as provided in this embodiment of the utility model.

[0056] Figure 18 A schematic diagram showing the rotational deviation and overlap distance of the movable volute assembly in the second state, provided in an embodiment of this utility model.

[0057] In the picture:

[0058] 1. Fixed volute; 11. First air outlet; 12. Second air outlet; 2. Movable volute; 3. First overlapping structure; 4. Second overlapping structure; 5. Third overlapping structure; 21. First end; 22. Second end; 31. First windward surface; 32. First leeward surface; 51. Third windward surface; 52. Third leeward surface; 23. First clearance step; 53. Third clearance step; 33. First overlapping end face; 24. First fitting structure; 13. First volute segment; 14. Second volute segment; 15. Connecting segment; 231. First step plane; 241. First fitting surface. Detailed Implementation

[0059] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only for explaining this utility model and are not intended to limit this utility model.

[0060] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0061] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this utility model are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such terms can be used interchangeably where appropriate for the embodiments of the utility model described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0062] It should be noted that in the description of this utility model, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer," which indicate directional or positional relationships, are based on the directional or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These are merely for ease of description and do not indicate or imply that the device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on 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.

[0063] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "setting," and "connection" 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 direct connection, an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or a connection within 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.

[0064] Centrifugal fans typically consist of an impeller and a volute. The volute concentrates and guides the gas leaving the impeller, further converting some of its kinetic energy into static pressure. The rational design of the volute profile plays a crucial role in the fan's performance. Existing variable-direction centrifugal fans include a volute and forward-curving multi-blade centrifugal impellers. The volute consists of a fixed volute and a movable volute. The movable volute can rotate within the fixed volute to shield and open different outlets on the fixed volute, thereby adjusting the centrifugal fan's outlet direction. However, due to coaxiality errors in the assembly of the fixed and movable volutes, the fixed volute cannot accurately constrain the movable volute's position, and localized leakage at the connection results in significant pressure loss, severely impacting the centrifugal fan's energy efficiency. Therefore, this application provides a... Figures 1 to 18 The volute assembly shown includes: a fixed volute 1, on which a first air outlet 11 and a second air outlet 12 are formed; a movable volute 2, which is movably disposed on the fixed volute 1, and the movable volute 2 has a first state in which the first air outlet 11 is opened and the second air outlet 12 is closed, and a second state in which the second air outlet 12 is opened and the first air outlet 11 is closed; and an overlap sealing assembly, which is disposed on the fixed volute 1, and when the movable volute 2 is in the first state or in the second state, the movable volute 2 overlaps and engages with the overlap sealing assembly. An overlapping sealing component is provided on the fixed volute 1 to overlap and cooperate with the movable volute 2. The overlapping sealing component can seal the connection between the movable volute 2 and the fixed volute 1, avoiding the problem of local leakage at the connection in the prior art and ensuring the energy efficiency of the centrifugal fan. Moreover, the overlapping sealing component can also compensate for the coaxiality deviation between the movable volute 2 and the fixed volute 1. By extending the overlapping sealing component towards the movable volute 2, the movement of the movable volute 2 can be limited, ensuring the accurate position of the movable volute 2 in the first state or the second state, thereby ensuring the working reliability of the volute assembly and the centrifugal fan.

[0065] In one embodiment, the overlapping sealing assembly includes a first overlapping structure 3, a second overlapping structure 4, and a third overlapping structure 5 arranged sequentially in a counterclockwise direction on the fixed volute 1. When the movable volute 2 is in the first state, the movable volute 2 overlaps with the first overlapping structure 3 and the second overlapping structure 4; when the movable volute 2 is in the second state, the movable volute 2 overlaps with the first overlapping structure 3 and the third overlapping structure 5. By providing the first overlapping structure 3, the second overlapping structure 4, and the third overlapping structure 5 on the fixed volute 1, the required position of the movable volute 2 in the first state and the required position in the second state can be restricted, ensuring reliable movement of the movable volute 2. Simultaneously, the connection between the movable volute 2 and the fixed volute 1 is changed from a gap in the prior art to an overlapping and sealing fit between the movable volute 2 and the first overlapping structure 3, the second overlapping structure 4, and the third overlapping structure 5, effectively avoiding air leakage at the connection and effectively improving the sealing effect of the volute assembly.

[0066] The first overlapping structure 3, the second overlapping structure 4, and the portion of the fixed volute 1 between the first overlapping structure 3 and the second overlapping structure 4 together constitute a first diffuser section. The first air outlet 11 communicates with the interior of the fixed volute 1 through the first diffuser section. The first diffuser section allows the airflow within the fixed volute 1 to flow smoothly to the first air outlet 11. When the movable volute 2 overlaps with the first overlapping structure 3 and the second overlapping structure 4, the airflow can also smoothly pass through the contact points between the movable volute 2 and the first and second overlapping structures 3 and 4, thereby reducing the wind resistance generated at the connection between the fixed volute 1 and the movable volute 2 and improving the working efficiency of the volute assembly and the centrifugal fan. Similarly, the first overlapping structure 3, the third overlapping structure 5, and the portion of the fixed volute 1 between the first overlapping structure 3 and the third overlapping structure 5 together constitute a second diffuser section. The second air outlet 12 communicates with the interior of the fixed volute 1 through the second diffuser section. The second diffuser section allows the airflow inside the fixed volute 1 to flow smoothly to the second air outlet 12. When the movable volute 2 is engaged with the first overlapping structure 3 and the third overlapping structure 5, the airflow can also pass smoothly through the engagement position of the movable volute 2 with the first overlapping structure 3 and the third overlapping structure 5, thereby reducing the wind resistance generated at the connection between the fixed volute 1 and the movable volute 2 and improving the working efficiency of the volute assembly and the centrifugal fan.

[0067] Specifically, the movable volute 2 has a first end 21 and a second end 22. When the movable volute 2 is in the first state, the first end 21 engages with the first overlapping structure 3, and the second end 22 engages with the second overlapping structure 4. When the movable volute 2 is in the second state, the first end 21 engages with the third overlapping structure 5, and the second end 22 engages with the first overlapping structure 3. The first end 21 of the movable volute 2 moves between the first overlapping structure 3 and the third overlapping structure 5, and the second end 22 moves between the first overlapping structure 3 and the second overlapping structure 4, thereby effectively limiting the movement range of the movable volute 2. When the movable volute 2 switches from the first state to the second state, the movable volute 2 rotates clockwise, and when it switches from the second state to the first state, the movable volute 2 rotates counterclockwise. This ensures reliable airflow guidance and reliable control of the first air outlet 11 and the second air outlet 12, as well as reliable movement of the movable volute 2, thus improving the structural reliability of the volute assembly.

[0068] The first overlapping structure 3 has a first airflow surface 31 through which airflow passes and a first leeward surface 32 opposite to the first airflow surface 31. When the first end 21 overlaps with the first overlapping structure 3, the inner wall of the movable volute 2 smoothly transitions with the first airflow surface 31. By utilizing the smooth transition between the inner wall of the movable volute 2 and the first airflow surface 31, the overlap gap between the inner wall of the movable volute 2 and the first airflow surface 31 is minimized as much as possible, thereby reducing the wind resistance when the airflow passes through the overlap gap. This ensures that the airflow flows smoothly along the inner wall of the movable volute 2 to the first airflow surface 31, and can finally be reliably discharged through the first air outlet 11, improving the air outlet effect of the volute assembly.

[0069] Alternatively, the plane of the first air passage surface 31 is tangent to the inner wall of the movable volute 2 near the first end 21. To avoid structural interference between the movable volute 2 and the first overlapping structure 3 during movement, it is necessary to increase the overlapping gap between the movable volute 2 and the first air passage surface 31. Due to the increase in the overlapping gap, the airflow may flow into the overlapping gap when it flows through the overlapping gap. Therefore, the plane of the first air passage surface 31 is tangent to the inner wall of the movable volute 2. When the airflow flows through the overlapping gap between the movable volute 2 and the first air passage surface 31, the inertia of the airflow can prevent the airflow from flowing into the overlapping gap, thereby effectively reducing the wind resistance caused by the overlapping gap and improving the air outlet effect of the volute assembly.

[0070] The third overlapping structure 5 has a third airflow surface 51 through which airflow passes and a third leeward surface 52 opposite to the third airflow surface 51. When the first end 21 overlaps with the first overlapping structure 3, the inner wall of the movable volute 2 smoothly transitions with the third airflow surface 51. By utilizing the smooth transition between the inner wall of the movable volute 2 and the third airflow surface 51, the overlap gap between the inner wall of the movable volute 2 and the third airflow surface 51 is minimized as much as possible, thereby reducing the wind resistance when the airflow passes through the overlap gap. This ensures that the airflow flows smoothly along the inner wall of the movable volute 2 to the first airflow surface 31, and can finally be reliably discharged through the second air outlet 12, improving the air outlet effect of the volute assembly.

[0071] Alternatively, the plane of the third air passage surface 51 is tangent to the inner wall of the movable volute 2 near the first end 21. To avoid structural interference between the movable volute 2 and the third overlapping structure 5 during movement, it is necessary to increase the overlapping gap between the movable volute 2 and the third air passage surface 51. Due to the increase in the overlapping gap, the airflow may flow into the overlapping gap when it flows through the overlapping gap. Therefore, the plane of the third air passage surface 51 is made tangent to the inner wall of the movable volute 2. When the airflow flows through the overlapping gap between the movable volute 2 and the third air passage surface 51, the inertia of the airflow can prevent the airflow from flowing into the overlapping gap, thereby effectively reducing the wind resistance caused by the overlapping gap and improving the air outlet effect of the volute assembly.

[0072] The first end 21 bends outward to form a first clearance step 23. The first clearance step 23 engages with the first overlapping structure 3 or the third overlapping structure 5. The first clearance step 23 avoids the thickness of the first overlapping structure 3, ensuring a smooth transition or tangential effect between the movable volute 2 and the first air passage surface 31. Simultaneously, the first clearance step 23 increases the length of the first end 21 of the movable volute 2, ensuring the reliability of the overlap between the movable volute 2 and the first overlapping structure 3. Furthermore, the first clearance step 23 seals the overlap gap between the movable volute 2 and the first overlapping structure 3, further reducing leakage and improving the reliability of the volute assembly.

[0073] The second overlapping structure 4 bends towards the third leeward side 52 to form a third clearance step 53, which overlaps with the first clearance step 23. The third clearance step 53 avoids the thickness of the first clearance step 23, ensuring a smooth transition or tangential effect between the movable volute 2 and the third windward side 51. Simultaneously, the third clearance step 53 increases the length of the third overlapping structure 5, ensuring the reliability of the overlap between the movable volute 2 and the third overlapping structure 5. Furthermore, the cooperation between the third clearance step 53 and the first clearance step 23 seals the overlap gap between the movable volute 2 and the third overlapping structure 5, further reducing leakage and improving the reliability of the volute assembly.

[0074] The clearance height of the first clearance step 23 is equal to the wall thickness of the fixed volute (1); and / or, the clearance height of the third clearance step 53 is a, and a=d+x, where d is the wall thickness of the fixed volute 1 and x is the wall thickness of the movable volute 2. Preferably, the wall thickness of the movable volute 2 is equal to the wall thickness of the fixed volute 1, in which case a=2d. Through the size limitation, it is further ensured that the airflow passes through the overlap gap between the movable volute 2 and the first air passage surface 31 and the overlap gap between the movable volute 2 and the third air passage surface 51, so that the movable volute 2 can achieve variable rotation under the allowable rotation deviation, while satisfying the requirements of sealing and smooth airflow.

[0075] The first overlapping structure 3 also has a first overlapping end face 33 located between the first windward surface 31 and the first leeward surface 32. The first overlapping end face 33 faces the interior of the fixed volute 1. When the second end 22 overlaps with the first overlapping structure 3, the inner wall of the movable volute 2 smoothly transitions with the first overlapping end face 33. By utilizing the smooth transition between the inner wall of the movable volute 2 and the first overlapping end face 33, the overlapping gap between the inner wall of the movable volute 2 and the first overlapping end face 33 is minimized as much as possible, thereby reducing the wind resistance when the airflow passes through the overlapping gap. This ensures that the airflow flows smoothly along the inner wall of the movable volute 2 to the first overlapping end face 33, and can finally be reliably discharged through the second air outlet 12, improving the air outlet effect of the volute assembly.

[0076] Alternatively, the plane containing the first overlapping end face 33 is tangent to the inner wall of the movable volute 2 near the second end 22. To avoid structural interference between the movable volute 2 and the first overlapping structure 3 during movement, it is necessary to increase the overlapping gap between the movable volute 2 and the first overlapping end face 33. Due to the increase in the overlapping gap, there is a possibility that the airflow may flow into the overlapping gap when it flows through the overlapping gap. Therefore, the plane containing the first overlapping end face 33 is made tangent to the inner wall of the movable volute 2. When the airflow flows through the overlapping gap between the movable volute 2 and the first overlapping end face 33, the inertia of the airflow can prevent the airflow from flowing into the overlapping gap, thereby effectively reducing the wind resistance caused by the overlapping gap and improving the air outlet effect of the volute assembly.

[0077] The second end 22 is bent outward to form a first fitting structure 24. When the second end 22 overlaps with the first overlapping structure 3, the first fitting structure 24 fits with the first air passage surface 31. By fitting the first fitting structure 24 with the first air passage surface 31, the leakage capacity between the movable volute 2 and the first overlapping structure 3 is effectively reduced, thereby ensuring the working reliability of the volute assembly.

[0078] When the second end 22 overlaps with the second overlapping structure 4, the first fitting structure 24 also fits with the second overlapping structure 4. At this time, the overlapping position of the movable volute 2 and the second overlapping structure 4 also forms a surface-to-surface fitting structure, which can also reduce the leakage capacity of the movable volute 2 and the second overlapping structure 4, thereby ensuring the working reliability of the volute assembly.

[0079] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the fixed volute 1 includes a first volute segment 13, a second volute segment 14, and a connecting segment 15. The first end 21 of the first volute segment 13 forms the first air outlet 11. The second end 22 of the first volute segment 13 is connected to the second volute segment 14 via the connecting segment 15. The connecting segment 15 constitutes the second overlapping structure 4. When the second end 22 overlaps with the second overlapping structure 4, the first fitting structure 24 and the connecting segment 15 form a side-fitting contact on the inner surface of the fixed volute 1. By utilizing the dimensional changes of the first volute segment 13 and the second volute segment 14, the connecting segment 15 can be conveniently set to achieve the formation of the second overlapping structure 4. Simultaneously, the increased size of the first volute segment 13 can make way for the movement of the movable volute 2, avoiding structural interference between the first volute segment 13 and the movable volute 2, and ensuring the reliability of the movement of the movable volute 2.

[0080] Since the movable volute 2 has a fixed structure, the angle between its first end 21 and second end 22 cannot be adjusted. Therefore, the angle between the plane containing the side surface of the inner surface of the fixed volute 1 and the plane containing the first air passage surface 31 is equal to the angle between the first air passage surface 31 and the third air passage surface 51. The movable volute 2 only needs to be rotated by a set angle to reliably switch between the first and second states, ensuring the structural reliability of the volute assembly.

[0081] Similarly, the first abutment step 23 has a first step plane 231 that fits against the first leeward surface 32, and the first fitting structure 24 has a first fitting surface 241 that fits against the first windward surface 31. The angle between the plane containing the side surface of the inner surface of the fixed volute 1 formed by the connecting segment 15 and the plane containing the first windward surface 31 is equal to the angle between the plane containing the first step plane 231 and the plane containing the first fitting surface 241. At this time, the movable volute 2 can reliably overlap with the first overlapping structure 3 and the second overlapping structure 4, thereby ensuring the structural reliability of the volute assembly.

[0082] Similarly, the first abutment step 23 has a first step plane 231 that fits against the first leeward surface 32, and the first fitting structure 24 has a first fitting surface 241 that fits against the first windward surface 31. The angle between the plane containing the first step plane 231 and the plane containing the first fitting surface 241 is equal to the angle between the first windward surface 31 and the third windward surface 51. At this time, the movable volute 2 can reliably overlap with the first overlapping structure 3 and the third overlapping structure 5, thereby ensuring the structural reliability of the volute assembly.

[0083] The included angle ranges from 100° to 130°. Preferably, the included angle is 90°. The included angle range is related to the angle between the air outlet direction of the first air outlet 11 and the air outlet direction of the second air outlet 12. When the indoor unit needs to provide side and bottom airflow, the angle between the air outlet direction of the first air outlet 11 and the air outlet direction of the second air outlet 12 is 90°, and the included angle is also set to 90°.

[0084] Furthermore, the first air-passing surface 31 has an edge A near the interior of the fixed volute 1, and the second end 22 has an edge A' connected to the inner wall of the movable volute 2. When the second end 22 overlaps with the first overlapping structure 3, edges A and A' fit together. That is, when the movable volute 2 is in the second state, the fixed volute 1 and the movable volute 2 can further increase the sealing effect through the fit of edges A and A', while ensuring that the air outlet angle and air outlet direction take into account both the first and second air outlet directions, thereby reducing wind resistance. Preferably, when the processing accuracy of the volute assembly meets the requirements, edges A and A' can be made to overlap each other, further improving the sealing effect and the air guiding effect.

[0085] The first air passage surface 31 has an edge A close to the interior of the fixed volute 1, and the side of the third clearance step 53 that is in contact with the first clearance step 23 has an edge B close to the interior of the fixed volute 1. The distance from the edge A to the central axis of the fixed volute 1 and the distance from the edge B to the central axis of the fixed volute 1 are equal. Since the movable volute 2 rotates around the central axis of the fixed volute 1, and both edges A and B abut against the first end 21 of the movable volute 2, the central axis of the fixed volute 1 is defined as the center line O. The distance from edge A to the central axis of the fixed volute 1 is OA, and the distance from edge B to the central axis of the fixed volute 1 is OB. Setting OA and OB to be equal ensures reliable cooperation between the movable volute 2 and the first and second abutting structures. It also ensures the sealing effect at the connection between the movable volute 2 and the first and second abutting structures. Adjusting the rotational deviation and overlap distance of the movable volute 2 avoids inaccurate positioning and leakage problems caused by dimensional deviations in parts processing and installation, thereby improving the reliability of the volute assembly.

[0086] The side of the third clearance step 53 that is in contact with the first clearance step 23 has an edge B close to the interior of the fixed volute 1. The relationship between the maximum distance R4 from the end face of the first end 21 to the central axis of the fixed volute 1 and the distance R1 from the edge B to the central axis of the fixed volute 1 is: R1-R4=δ, where δ is the rotational deviation. Since the movable volute 2 rotates around the central axis of the fixed volute 1, the end face of the first end 21 actually performs a circular motion. Therefore, the maximum distance R4 from the end face of the first end 21 to the central axis of the fixed volute 1 is the radius of the circle formed when the end face of the first end 21 rotates. When the difference between R1 and R4 is the rotational deviation, even if the movable volute 2 has a rotational deviation, it will not cause structural interference with the second overlapping structure 4, thus preventing the movable volute 2 from reaching the set position of the second state, ensuring the working reliability of the volute assembly.

[0087] Similarly, the third air passage surface 51 has an edge C close to the interior of the fixed volute 1. The relationship between the maximum distance R5 from the first clearance step 23 to the central axis of the fixed volute 1 and the distance R2 from the edge C to the central axis of the fixed volute 1 is: R2-R5=δ, where δ is the rotational deviation. Since the movable volute 2 rotates around the central axis of the fixed volute 1, the end face of the first end 21 actually performs circular motion. Therefore, the maximum distance R5 from the first clearance step 23 to the central axis of the fixed volute 1 is the radius of the circle formed when the first clearance step 23 rotates. When the difference between R2 and R5 is the rotational deviation, even if the movable volute 2 has a rotational deviation, it will not cause structural interference with the third overlapping structure 5, thus preventing the movable volute 2 from reaching the set position of the second state and ensuring the working reliability of the volute assembly.

[0088] Optionally, the relationship between the rotational deviation δ and the wall thickness d of the fixed volute 1 is: 0.5d≤δ≤d.

[0089] The side of the third clearance step 53 that mates with the first clearance step 23 has an edge B close to the interior of the fixed volute 1. The relationship between the maximum distance R5 from the first clearance step 23 to the central axis of the fixed volute 1 and the distance R1 from the edge B to the central axis of the fixed volute 1 is R5 - R1 = s, where s is the overlap distance. Since the first clearance step 23 needs to move relative to the third clearance step 53, by setting the overlap distance, it is ensured that the first clearance step 23 and the third clearance step 53 will not cause structural interference and can overlap well, ensuring that the movable volute 2 can smoothly reach the set position of the second state and ensuring the working reliability of the volute assembly.

[0090] The connecting segment 15 forms a side surface on the inner surface of the fixed volute 1 with an edge D close to the interior of the fixed volute 1. The relationship between the maximum distance R6 from the first fitting structure 24 to the central axis of the fixed volute 1 and the distance R3 from the edge D to the central axis of the fixed volute 1 is: R6 - R3 = s, where s is the overlap distance. Since the first fitting structure 24 needs to move relative to the connecting segment 15, by setting the overlap distance, it is ensured that the first fitting structure 24 and the connecting segment 15 will not cause structural interference and can overlap well, ensuring that the movable volute 2 can smoothly reach the set position of the first state and ensuring the working reliability of the volute assembly.

[0091] Optionally, the relationship between the overlap distance s and the wall thickness d of the fixed volute 1 is: 0.5d≤s≤d.

[0092] In one implementation, the air outlet 11 is parallel to the vertical direction, that is, the air outlet 11 is used to discharge air vertically, so as to achieve the effect of rapid heating of the indoor unit.

[0093] The air outlet 12 is parallel to the horizontal direction, and horizontal air is discharged through the second air outlet 12 to achieve the waterfall-style cooling effect of the indoor unit.

[0094] When the movable volute 2 is in the first state or the movable volute 2 is in the second state, the movable volute 2 and a portion of the fixed volute 1 form a complete volute-shaped structure. This allows the movable volute 2 to adjust the air outlet position without affecting the volute-shaped structure, thus achieving normal air return and outlet.

[0095] A centrifugal fan includes the aforementioned volute assembly.

[0096] An indoor unit includes the aforementioned volute assembly or the aforementioned centrifugal fan.

[0097] The indoor unit also includes a housing, on which a side air vent and a down air vent are provided. The air outlet 11 is directed to the down air vent, and the air outlet 12 is directed to the side air vent. When the indoor unit needs to heat, the movable volute 2 can be switched to the first state, at which time hot air can flow downward quickly through the down air vent to achieve rapid heating. When the indoor unit needs to cool, the movable volute 2 can be switched to the second state, at which time cold air can be blown out horizontally through the side air vent to achieve waterfall-style cooling.

[0098] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementations of this utility model, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of this utility model patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this utility model, and these all fall within the protection scope of this utility model. Therefore, the protection scope of this utility model patent should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A volute assembly, characterized in that: include: A fixed volute (1) is provided, on which a first air outlet (11) and a second air outlet (12) are formed; The movable volute (2) is movably disposed on the fixed volute (1). The movable volute (2) has a first state in which the first air outlet (11) is opened and the second air outlet (12) is closed, and the movable volute (2) has a second state in which the second air outlet (12) is opened and the first air outlet (11) is closed. An overlapping sealing assembly is disposed on the fixed volute (1). When the movable volute (2) is in the first state or in the second state, the movable volute (2) overlaps with the overlapping sealing assembly.

2. The volute assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The overlapping sealing assembly includes a first overlapping structure (3), a second overlapping structure (4), and a third overlapping structure (5) arranged sequentially in a counterclockwise direction on the fixed volute (1). When the movable volute (2) is in the first state, the movable volute (2) overlaps with the first overlapping structure (3) and the second overlapping structure (4); when the movable volute (2) is in the second state, the movable volute (2) overlaps with the first overlapping structure (3) and the third overlapping structure (5).

3. The volute assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first overlapping structure (3) and the second overlapping structure (4), as well as the portion of the fixed volute (1) between the first overlapping structure (3) and the second overlapping structure (4), together constitute a first diffuser section, and the first air outlet (11) communicates with the interior of the fixed volute (1) through the first diffuser section; and / or, the first overlapping structure (3) and the third overlapping structure (5), as well as the portion of the fixed volute (1) between the first overlapping structure (3) and the third overlapping structure (5), together constitute a second diffuser section, and the second air outlet (12) communicates with the interior of the fixed volute (1) through the second diffuser section.

4. The volute assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: The movable volute (2) has a first end (21) and a second end (22) opposite to each other. When the movable volute (2) is in the first state, the first end (21) overlaps with the first overlapping structure (3), and the second end (22) overlaps with the second overlapping structure (4). When the movable volute (2) is in the second state, the first end (21) overlaps with the third overlapping structure (5), and the second end (22) overlaps with the first overlapping structure (3).

5. The volute assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The first overlapping structure (3) has a first windward surface (31) through which airflow flows and a first leeward surface (32) opposite to the first windward surface (31). When the first end (21) overlaps with the first overlapping structure (3), the inner wall of the movable volute (2) smoothly transitions with the first windward surface (31); or, the plane where the first windward surface (31) is located is tangent to the inner wall of the movable volute (2) near the first end (21).

6. The volute assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: The third overlapping structure (5) has a third windward surface (51) through which airflow passes and a third leeward surface (52) opposite to the third windward surface (51). When the first end (21) overlaps with the first overlapping structure (3), the inner wall of the movable volute (2) smoothly transitions with the third windward surface (51); or, the plane where the third windward surface (51) is located is tangent to the inner wall of the movable volute (2) near the first end (21).

7. The volute assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that: The first end (21) bends outward toward the movable volute (2) to form a first clearance step (23), which overlaps with the first overlapping structure (3) or overlaps with the third overlapping structure (5).

8. The volute assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that: The third overlapping structure (5) bends toward the third leeward side (52) to form a third avoidance step (53), and the third avoidance step (53) overlaps with the first avoidance step (23).

9. The volute assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that: The clearance height of the first clearance step (23) is equal to the wall thickness of the fixed volute (1); and / or, the clearance height of the third clearance step (53) is a, and a = d + x, where d is the wall thickness of the fixed volute (1) and x is the wall thickness of the movable volute (2).

10. The volute assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that: The first overlapping structure (3) also has a first overlapping end face (33) located between the first windward surface (31) and the first leeward surface (32), the first overlapping end face (33) facing the interior of the fixed volute (1), and when the second end (22) overlaps with the first overlapping structure (3), the inner wall of the movable volute (2) smoothly transitions with the first overlapping end face (33); or, the plane where the first overlapping end face (33) is located is tangent to the inner wall of the movable volute (2) near the second end (22).

11. The volute assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that: The second end (22) is bent outward to form a first fitting structure (24). When the second end (22) overlaps with the first overlapping structure (3), the first fitting structure (24) fits with the first air passage surface (31). When the second end (22) overlaps with the second overlapping structure (4), the first fitting structure (24) fits with the second overlapping structure (4).

12. The volute assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that: The fixed volute (1) includes a first volute segment (13), a second volute segment (14), and a connecting segment (15). The first end (21) of the first volute segment (13) forms the first air outlet (11). The second end (22) of the first volute segment (13) is connected to the second volute segment (14) through the connecting segment (15). The connecting segment (15) constitutes the second overlapping structure (4). When the second end (22) overlaps with the second overlapping structure (4), the first fitting structure (24) and the connecting segment (15) form the side fitting of the inner surface of the fixed volute (1).

13. The volute assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that: The angle between the plane containing the side surface of the inner surface of the connecting segment (15) and the plane containing the first air passage surface (31) is equal to the angle between the first air passage surface (31) and the third air passage surface (51).

14. The volute assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that: The first avoidance step (23) has a first step plane (231) that fits against the first leeward surface (32), the first fitting structure (24) has a first fitting surface (241) that fits against the first windward surface (31), and the angle between the plane containing the side of the inner surface of the fixed volute (1) formed by the connecting section (15) and the plane containing the first windward surface (31) is equal to the angle between the plane containing the first step plane (231) and the plane containing the first fitting surface (241).

15. The volute assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that: The first step (23) has a first step plane (231) that fits against the first leeward side (32), and the first fitting structure (24) has a first fitting surface (241) that fits against the first windward side (31). The angle between the plane containing the first step plane (231) and the plane containing the first fitting surface (241) is equal to the angle between the first windward side (31) and the third windward side (51).

16. The volute assembly according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that: The included angle ranges from 100° to 130°.

17. The volute assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: The first air passage surface (31) has an edge A close to the inside of the fixed volute (1), and the second end (22) has an edge A' connected to the inner wall of the movable volute (2). When the second end (22) overlaps with the first overlapping structure (3), the edge A and the edge A' fit together.

18. The volute assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that: The first air passage surface (31) has an edge A close to the interior of the fixed volute (1), and the side of the third clearance step (53) that is in contact with the first clearance step (23) has an edge B close to the interior of the fixed volute (1). The distance from the edge A to the central axis of the fixed volute (1) and the distance from the edge B to the central axis of the fixed volute (1) are equal.

19. The volute assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that: The side of the third clearance step (53) that is in contact with the first clearance step (23) has an edge B close to the inside of the fixed volute (1). The relationship between the maximum distance R4 from the end face of the first end (21) to the central axis of the fixed volute (1) and the distance R1 from the edge B to the central axis of the fixed volute (1) is: R1-R4=δ, where δ is the rotational deviation.

20. The volute assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that: The third air passage surface (51) has an edge C close to the interior of the fixed volute (1). The relationship between the maximum distance R5 from the first clearance step (23) to the central axis of the fixed volute (1) and the distance R2 from the edge C to the central axis of the fixed volute (1) is: R2-R5=δ, where δ is the rotational deviation.

21. The volute assembly according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that: The relationship between the rotational deviation δ and the wall thickness d of the fixed volute (1) is: 0.5d≤δ≤d.

22. The volute assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that: The side of the third clearance step (53) that is in contact with the first clearance step (23) has an edge B close to the inside of the fixed volute (1). The relationship between the maximum distance R5 from the first clearance step (23) to the central axis of the fixed volute (1) and the distance R1 from the edge B to the central axis of the fixed volute (1) is R5-R1=s, where s is the overlap distance.

23. The volute assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that: The connecting segment (15) forms the side of the inner surface of the fixed volute (1) with an edge D close to the interior of the fixed volute (1). The relationship between the maximum distance R6 from the first fitting structure (24) to the central axis of the fixed volute (1) and the distance R3 from the edge D to the central axis of the fixed volute (1) is: R6-R3=s, where s is the overlap distance.

24. The volute assembly according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that: The relationship between the overlap distance s and the wall thickness d of the fixed volute (1) is: 0.5d≤s≤d.

25. The volute assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The air outlet (11) is parallel to the vertical direction; and / or the air outlet (12) is parallel to the horizontal direction.

26. The volute assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the movable volute (2) is in the first state or when the movable volute (2) is in the second state, the movable volute (2) and a portion of the fixed volute (1) form a complete volute-shaped structure.

27. A centrifugal fan, characterized in that: The volute assembly includes any one of claims 1 to 26.

28. An indoor unit, characterized in that: Includes the volute assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 26 or the centrifugal fan according to claim 27.

29. The indoor unit according to claim 28, characterized in that: The indoor unit also includes a housing, on which a side air vent and a down air vent are provided. The air outlet of the first air outlet (11) is directed towards the down air vent, and the air outlet of the second air outlet (12) is directed towards the side air vent.

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