Electrical control box and air conditioner

Abstract

This application discloses an electrical control box and an air conditioner. The electrical control box includes a housing assembly, an electrical control board, and a heat dissipation assembly. The heat dissipation assembly includes refrigerant pipes and a refrigerant plate. Cooling fluid flows through the refrigerant pipes, which are connected to the refrigerant plate. The refrigerant plate and the electrical control board are connected. The housing assembly includes a shell and a partition. The top and bottom walls of the shell are spaced apart in a first direction and define a main cavity. A heat dissipation vent and an air inlet are connected in a second direction to opposite sides of the main cavity to form a cooling air duct. The partition forms a waterproof channel between the heat dissipation vent and the main cavity. The waterproof channel has a first vent and a second vent. In the first direction, the heat dissipation vent is closer to the bottom wall than the first vent, and the first vent is closer to the top wall than the second vent. The projections of the first and second vents in the second direction do not overlap. This application can improve the waterproof effect of the electrical control box.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of air conditioning technology, specifically to an electrical control box and an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] With social development and the continuous improvement of people's living standards, air conditioning has become widely used. Air conditioning consists of different components such as indoor units and outdoor units. The outdoor unit needs to be installed in the outdoor environment to exchange heat with the outdoor environment.

[0003] An air conditioner's outdoor unit includes a fan and an electrical control box. The control box is located inside the outdoor unit and controls the fan to work in conjunction with the indoor unit. Because the control board and electronic components inside the control box require heat dissipation, the box casing needs ventilation holes. However, rainwater and other environmental substances can enter the control box through these ventilation holes, potentially damaging the control board and electronic components. Utility Model Content

[0004] To address the aforementioned shortcomings in related technologies, this application provides an electrical control box and an air conditioner that can improve the waterproof performance of the electrical control box and reduce the possibility of damage to the electrical control box.

[0005] To address the aforementioned technical problems, in a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide an electrical control box, including a housing assembly, an electrical control board, and a heat dissipation assembly. The housing assembly defines a main cavity, the electrical control board is disposed within the main cavity, and the heat dissipation assembly is used to dissipate heat from the electrical control board through a phase change of the cooling medium. The heat dissipation assembly includes a refrigerant pipe and a refrigerant plate. The refrigerant pipe circulates the cooling medium, the refrigerant plate is disposed within the main cavity, the refrigerant pipe is connected to the refrigerant plate, the refrigerant plate is connected to the electrical control board, and is used to absorb heat generated by the electrical control board through a phase change of the cooling medium within the refrigerant pipe. The housing assembly includes a shell and a partition, the shell having a top wall and a partition spaced apart in a first direction. The shell has a bottom wall, and a main cavity is defined between the top wall and the bottom wall. The shell also has a heat dissipation port and an air inlet. The air inlet and the heat dissipation port are arranged in a second direction and are respectively connected to opposite sides of the main cavity to form a cooling air channel. The second direction intersects with the first direction. A partition is disposed between the top wall and the bottom wall, and the partition forms a waterproof channel between the heat dissipation port and the main cavity. The waterproof channel has a first vent connected to the heat dissipation port and a second vent connected to the main cavity. In the first direction, the heat dissipation port is closer to the bottom wall than the first vent, and the first vent is closer to the top wall than the second vent. The projections of the first vent and the second vent in the second direction do not overlap.

[0006] With the above configuration, when rainwater or other water droplets enter the housing through the heat dissipation vents with the airflow, the first and second vents of the waterproof channel do not overlap in the second direction. Therefore, the waterproof channel is configured in a tortuous and circuitous manner, which can prevent rainwater or other water droplets from the heat dissipation vents from directly entering the main cavity along the second direction. The inner wall of the waterproof channel can block some or even all water droplets, reducing the possibility of water droplets entering the main cavity and reducing the possibility of damage to the electrical control board when exposed to water, thus improving the waterproof effect of the electrical control box.

[0007] Optionally, the partition specifically includes a first partition and a second partition. The first partition is disposed inside the housing and located between the heat dissipation vent and the main cavity. The first partition and the housing together form a first waterproof cavity that communicates with the heat dissipation vent. The second partition is disposed inside the housing and located between the first partition and the main cavity. A second waterproof cavity is formed between the second partition and the first partition. The second waterproof cavity communicates with the first waterproof cavity through a first vent. The second waterproof cavity also communicates with the main cavity through a second vent. The first waterproof cavity, the first vent, the second waterproof cavity, and the second vent sequentially form a waterproof channel.

[0008] With the above settings, when water droplets enter the housing from the heat dissipation vent with the airflow, the inner wall of the waterproof channel can block some or even all of the water droplets, reducing the possibility of water droplets entering the main cavity and reducing the possibility of the control board being damaged by water, thus improving the waterproof effect of the control box.

[0009] In some embodiments that may include the above-described examples, the control board is equipped with electronic components, and the projection of the second partition and the projection of the electronic components overlap in a plane perpendicular to the second direction. Through this arrangement, the second partition can shield the electronic components, reducing the possibility of damage from water.

[0010] Optionally, a water-retaining protrusion is provided on the bottom wall, located within the main cavity. The water-retaining protrusion, the partition, and at least part of the shell form a water storage tank, which is located on the bottom wall. A drain outlet communicating with the water storage tank is provided on the bottom wall. With the above arrangement, the water storage tank can be used to collect water droplets blocked by the partition, and the collected water can be discharged from the electrical control box through the drain outlet.

[0011] Optionally, the housing has a refrigerant support connected between the top and bottom walls. The refrigerant support supports the heat dissipation components and is located between opposite ends of the housing in the second direction. The air inlet is located on the bottom wall of the housing, the end of the housing facing away from the heat dissipation vent, or on the refrigerant support. With the above arrangement, the airflow for cooling the electronic control board can enter the main cavity through the air inlets at different locations, resulting in a larger airflow rate, which is beneficial for heat dissipation of the electronic control board.

[0012] Optionally, the air inlet specifically includes at least one of a first air inlet, a second air inlet, and a third air inlet, wherein the first air inlet is disposed on the bottom wall, and in a first direction, the bottom wall is further away from the electronic control board than the top wall; the second air inlet is located at the end of the housing away from the heat dissipation vent; and the third air inlet is located on the refrigerant bracket.

[0013] With the above configuration, the first air inlet, the second air inlet, and the third air inlet can all form a cooling air duct with the heat dissipation port. Airflow can enter the main cavity through at least one of the first air inlet, the second air inlet, and the third air inlet, which increases the airflow in the cooling air duct and is beneficial for heat dissipation of the electronic control board.

[0014] Optionally, the housing is provided with a waterproof structure, which includes a plurality of first waterproof parts and a plurality of second waterproof parts. The plurality of first waterproof parts and the plurality of second waterproof parts are all spaced apart along a third direction, and the first waterproof parts and the second waterproof parts are spaced apart in a second direction, so that a heat dissipation vent is formed between the first waterproof parts and the second waterproof parts.

[0015] With the above configuration, the first and second waterproof parts can be used to prevent water droplets in the airflow from entering the electrical control box through the heat dissipation vent, thereby improving the waterproof effect of the electrical control box and reducing the possibility of damage to the electrical control board when exposed to water.

[0016] Optionally, the housing includes two component members that together define the main cavity, and at least one of the component members is a bulk molding compound.

[0017] With the above configuration, the shell can be composed of two or more components. Individual components can have relatively simple structures, while the shell itself can be designed with complex and precise structures to achieve better waterproofing and heat dissipation, and to facilitate passing heating and rain tests. Furthermore, the use of bulk molding compounds to form the components offers several advantages. Firstly, bulk molding compounds have good high-temperature resistance, giving the shell better environmental adaptability. Secondly, the bulk molding compounds themselves can form relatively complex shapes, allowing two components to be joined together to form the shell, resulting in a smaller number of components.

[0018] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide another type of electrical control box, including: a housing assembly, an electrical control board, and a heat dissipation assembly, wherein the housing assembly defines a main cavity, the electrical control board is disposed in the main cavity, and the heat dissipation assembly is used to dissipate heat from the electrical control board through the phase change of the cooling working fluid. The housing assembly includes a shell and a partition. The shell has a top wall and a bottom wall spaced apart in a first direction, and the main cavity is defined between the top wall and the bottom wall. The shell also has a heat dissipation port and an air inlet. The air inlet and the heat dissipation port are arranged in a second direction and are respectively connected to opposite sides of the main cavity to form a cooling air channel. The second direction intersects with the first direction. The partition is disposed between the top wall and the bottom wall, and the partition forms a waterproof channel between the heat dissipation port and the main cavity. The waterproof channel has a first vent connected to the heat dissipation port and a second vent connected to the main cavity. In the first direction, the heat dissipation port is closer to the bottom wall than the first vent, and the first vent is closer to the top wall than the second vent. The air inlet is located on the bottom wall of the shell, at the end of the shell away from the heat dissipation port, or on a side structure connected between the top wall and the bottom wall. With the above settings, airflow can enter the main cavity through air inlets at different locations, which is beneficial for heat dissipation of the electronic control board.

[0019] Thirdly, this application embodiment also provides an air conditioner, which includes an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit includes a casing, a fan, and an electrical control box as described above. The fan is located in the casing, the electrical control box is located inside the casing, and the fan faces the end of the casing that has a heat dissipation vent.

[0020] With the above settings, when the outdoor environment where the air conditioner outdoor unit is located is under relatively harsh weather conditions, or when the fan reverses due to the influence of external wind, rainwater or other water droplets may enter the casing through the heat dissipation vents with the airflow. At this time, the waterproof channel set inside the electrical control box can block some or even all of the water droplets, reducing the possibility of water droplets entering the main cavity and reducing the possibility of damage to the electrical control board when exposed to water. This improves the waterproof effect of the electrical control box and ensures the normal operation of the electrical control box. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electrical control box provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0022] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A sectional view of the electrical control box along line AA;

[0023] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Exploded view of the electrical control box shown;

[0024] Figure 4 for Figure 1 Another structural diagram of the electrical control box shown;

[0025] Figure 5 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the electrical control box along direction BB;

[0026] Figure 6 for Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the electrical control box along the CC direction;

[0027] Figure 7 for Figure 4 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the electrical control box along the DD direction.

[0028] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0029] 10-Electrical control box; 11-Outer casing assembly; 100-Housing; 110-Top cover; 111-Top wall; 120-Base; 121-Bottom wall; 122-Refrigerant bracket; 123-Water-blocking protrusion; 124-Water tank; 125-Drain outlet; 130-Main cavity; 140-Heat dissipation vent; 150-Air inlet; 151-First air inlet; 152-Second air inlet; 153-Third air inlet; 160-Cooling air duct; 170-Waterproof structure; 171-First waterproof part; 17 2-Second waterproof section; 180-Waterproof channel; 181-First vent; 182-Second vent; 183-First waterproof cavity; 184-Second waterproof cavity; 200-Partition; 210-First partition; 220-Second partition; 12-Electrical control board; 12a-Electronic components; 13-Heat dissipation assembly; 300-Refrigerant piping; 310-First piping; 320-Second piping; 330-Connecting piping; 400-Refrigerant plate; 410-First channel; 420-Second channel. Detailed Implementation

[0030] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all possible embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0031] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design that is described as "exemplary" or "for example" in the embodiments of this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of the terms "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0032] As used herein, terms such as “equal,” “parallel,” and “perpendicular” include the described situation and situations that are similar to the described situation, within an acceptable range of deviation, which is determined by those skilled in the art taking into account the measurement under discussion and the error associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, “equal” includes absolute equality and approximate equality, where an acceptable range of deviation for approximate equality may be, for example, a difference between the two equal items less than or equal to 5% of either one.

[0033] In the embodiments of this application, the directional indications used to explain the structure and movement of different components, such as up, down, left, right, front, and back, are relative. These indications are appropriate when the components are in the positions shown in the figures. However, if the description of the component positions changes, these directional indications will also change accordingly.

[0034] This application provides an electrical control box and an air conditioner. The electrical control box forms a waterproof channel between the heat dissipation vent and the main cavity through the shell and the partition. When water droplets enter the shell from the heat dissipation vent with the airflow, the inner wall of the waterproof channel can block some or even all of the water droplets, reducing the possibility of water droplets entering the main cavity and reducing the possibility of the electrical control board being damaged by water, thereby improving the waterproof effect of the electrical control box.

[0035] The air conditioner provided in this application embodiment may include at least one of wall-mounted air conditioners, floor-standing air conditioners, or ceiling-mounted air conditioners. This application embodiment does not limit the type of air conditioner.

[0036] An air conditioner includes an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor and outdoor units work together to regulate the temperature, humidity, airflow, and cleanliness of the air in an indoor environment. The indoor unit can be installed in indoor environments such as residences, offices, shops, or computer rooms, while the outdoor unit can be installed in an outdoor environment corresponding to the indoor environment, such as a building's exterior wall, roof, terrace, or ground. In some examples, there may be only one indoor unit and one outdoor unit. In other examples, there may be multiple indoor units; correspondingly, when there are multiple indoor units, the air conditioner provided in this application embodiment is a central air conditioning system.

[0037] An air conditioner outdoor unit may include a casing, fan, electrical control box, compressor, condenser, etc. The electrical control box, compressor, and condenser are all located inside the casing, while the fan is located within the casing. When the fan rotates forward, it draws air from inside the casing to expel heat generated by components such as the compressor, condenser, or electrical control box to the outdoor environment, achieving a cooling effect. However, when the fan rotates in reverse due to unexpected factors such as strong winds, it may draw airflow containing water droplets from the outdoor environment into the air conditioner outdoor unit, causing the water droplets to enter the electrical control box and potentially damaging it.

[0038] The electrical control box is used to electrically connect to other components of the air conditioner, such as the fan, compressor, or indoor unit, and to control the operation of these other components. For example, the electrical control box can control the fan speed.

[0039] Please refer to Figure 1 This application provides an electrical control box 10. For ease of explanation, the height direction of the electrical control box 10 is defined as the first direction x, the length direction of the electrical control box 10 is defined as the second direction y, and the width direction of the electrical control box 10 is defined as the third direction z. The second direction y intersects the first direction x; for example, the second direction y can be perpendicular or approximately perpendicular to the first direction x. The third direction z intersects the plane containing the first direction x and the second direction y; for example, the third direction z can be perpendicular or approximately perpendicular to the plane containing the first direction x and the second direction y.

[0040] The electrical control box 10 includes a housing assembly 11, which can be used to support and fix other devices inside the electrical control box 10, and can also protect other devices inside the electrical control box 10 to ensure that the electrical control box 10 works normally and stably. The housing assembly 11 includes a housing 100, which defines a main cavity 130.

[0041] Please combine Figures 1 to 4 The housing 100 has a top wall 111 and a bottom wall 121 opposite to the top wall 111, the top wall 111 and the bottom wall 121 being spaced apart in a first direction x. A main cavity 130 is defined between the top wall 111 and the bottom wall 121 and can be used to accommodate other devices within the electrical control box 10. The electrical control box 10 also includes an electrical control board 12, which is disposed inside the main cavity 130.

[0042] Meanwhile, the control box 10 also includes a heat dissipation component 13, which can be used to dissipate heat from the control board 12 and the electronic devices 12a on the control board 12 by means of the phase change of the cooling working fluid.

[0043] The heat dissipation assembly 13 is installed in the housing 100 and located in the main cavity 130. The heat dissipation assembly 13 includes a refrigerant pipe 300 for circulating the cooling working fluid inside, and a refrigerant plate 400 connected to the refrigerant pipe 300. The refrigerant plate 400 is connected to the electronic control board 12 to cool the electronic control board 12.

[0044] In addition to using the heat dissipation component 13 for heat dissipation, in order to provide air cooling for components such as the electronic control board 12, the housing 100 also has a heat dissipation port 140 and an air inlet 150. The air inlet 150 and the heat dissipation port 140 are arranged in the second direction y and are respectively connected to the opposite sides of the main cavity 130 to form a cooling air duct 160.

[0045] In addition, the housing assembly 11 includes a partition 200 disposed between the top wall 111 and the bottom wall 121, and the partition 200 forms a waterproof channel 180 between the heat dissipation vent 140 and the main cavity 130. The waterproof channel 180 has a first vent 181 communicating with the heat dissipation vent 140 and a second vent 182 communicating with the main cavity 130. In the first direction x, the heat dissipation vent 140 is closer to the bottom wall 121 than the first vent 181, and the first vent 181 is closer to the top wall 111 than the second vent 182. In the second direction y, the projections of the first vent 181 and the second vent 182 do not overlap.

[0046] The electrical control box 10 with the above structure, while the heat dissipation component 13 dissipates heat through the phase change of the cooling working fluid to the electrical control board 12, also utilizes the cooling air duct 160 formed by the outer casing component 11 for air cooling. Since the outdoor unit of the air conditioner, where the electrical control box 10 is located, is in the outdoor environment and has a fan, when the outdoor environment is under severe weather conditions, or when the fan reverses direction due to external wind (i.e., the fan's airflow direction changes from outside to inside the outdoor unit), rainwater or other water droplets may enter the casing 100 through the heat dissipation vent 140 along with the airflow. At this time, the waterproof channel 180 set inside the electrical control box 10 has a tortuous and winding shape. Since the projections of the first vent 181 and the second vent 182 of the waterproof channel 180 in the second direction y do not overlap, the waterproof channel 180 can prevent rainwater or other water droplets from the heat dissipation vent 140 from directly entering the main cavity 130 along the second direction y. This can block some or even all water droplets, reduce the possibility of water droplets entering the main cavity 130, and reduce the possibility of the electrical control board 12 being damaged by water. This improves the waterproof effect of the electrical control box 10 and ensures the normal operation of the electrical control box 10.

[0047] The following is a detailed description of each component of the electrical control box 10:

[0048] Specifically, the outer casing assembly 11 includes a housing 100. This application does not limit the shape of the housing 100. For example, the housing 100 may be in the shape of a cuboid or approximately a cuboid, or the housing 100 may also be in the shape of a cube, a cylinder or other shapes.

[0049] The housing 100 may include two components connected to each other to jointly define a main cavity 130. For example, the housing 100 may include a top cover 110 and a base 120 arranged in a first direction x, the top cover 110 and the base 120 being connected and jointly defining the main cavity 130, the top cover 110 having a top wall 111, and the base 120 having a bottom wall 121 opposite to the top wall 111. In other embodiments, the housing 100 may also include other components, or may include more components, as long as the components in the housing 100 can define the main cavity 130. The materials used to manufacture the housing 100 and its components may include at least one of materials such as plastic, metal, glass, or rubber.

[0050] In one embodiment, at least one component is a bulk molding compound (BMC) part. Accordingly, in the example where the housing 100 includes a top cover 110 and a base 120, at least one of the top cover 110 and the base 120 is a bulk molding compound part. That is, the material used to make at least one of the top cover 110 and the base 120 includes a bulk molding compound, and it can be formed by injection molding or compression molding of the bulk molding compound.

[0051] Bulk molding compound exhibits good flowability and curing properties in its molten state, enabling the formation of complex and high-precision structures during molding. Therefore, the top cover 110 and base 120 can be designed with complex and precise structures to achieve good waterproofing and heat dissipation effects. This facilitates the housing 100 passing heating tests (here, "heating test" can be understood as measuring, analyzing, and evaluating the temperature of internal components and the surface of the housing 100 under normal operating conditions of the control box 10 to determine the rationality and effectiveness of the heat dissipation structure design of the housing 100) and rain tests. Simultaneously, the bulk molding compound has good heat resistance, allowing the top cover 110 and base 120 to pass the glow wire test (here, "glow wire test" can be understood as contacting the housing 100 with a heated nickel-chromium alloy wire to simulate the situation where internal components of the control box 10 accidentally come into contact with the housing 100 when overheated, to test the housing 100's ability to resist the glowing components).

[0052] In the above example, both the top cover 110 and the base 120 can be integrally molded parts. This reduces the number of components in the housing 100, allowing the housing 100 to pass heating tests, rain tests, and hot wire tests without the need for additional components such as sheet metal parts, in addition to the top cover 110 and the base 120. It also reduces the assembly steps of the housing 100, which helps to reduce labor costs.

[0053] To achieve the control functions of the control box 10, the control board 12 may be equipped with electronic devices 12a such as controllers, capacitors, and inductors. The controller may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), a system-on-chip (SOC), or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The control board 12 can be electrically connected to other components of the air conditioner, such as fans, compressors, or indoor units, enabling the controller to control the operation of these other components.

[0054] When the control board 12 is installed in the housing 100 and located within the main cavity 130, for example, the control board 12 can be installed in the housing 100 by at least one of the following connection methods: bolt connection, adhesive connection, or snap-fit ​​connection. In one example, the control board 12 can be installed on the top wall 111. Correspondingly, the bottom wall 121 is further away from the control board 12 than the top wall 111. Thus, when unexpected situations such as fan reversal or water leakage in the housing 100 cause water to accumulate in the control box 10, the control board 12 is less likely to be affected by water accumulation on the bottom wall 121, reducing the possibility of water damage to the control board 12.

[0055] Specifically, to dissipate heat from the electronic control board 12, the heat dissipation component 13 in the electronic control box 10 absorbs heat from the electronic devices 12a on the electronic control board 12 through a phase change of the cooling medium. The cooling medium may include at least one of materials such as difluoromethane, hydrofluoroolefins, or hydrofluorocarbons. During the phase change process, for example, when a low-temperature, low-pressure liquid cooling medium changes to a gaseous state, it can absorb the heat generated by the electronic control board 12 during operation, thereby dissipating heat from the electronic control board 12.

[0056] To mount the heat dissipation assembly 13 onto the housing 100, the housing 100, exemplarily, has a refrigerant support 122 located in the main cavity 130 and connected between the top wall 111 and the bottom wall 121. The refrigerant support 122 supports the heat dissipation assembly 13, which can be mounted to the refrigerant support 122 via at least one of the following connection methods: bolting, bonding, or snap-fitting, and thus onto the housing 100. The refrigerant support 122 is located between the two ends of the housing 100 in the second direction y; that is, the extension direction of the refrigerant support 122 can be parallel to the second direction y. Correspondingly, the extension direction of the heat dissipation assembly 13 can also be parallel to the second direction y, thereby increasing the area for heat exchange by the heat dissipation assembly 13.

[0057] Please continue to refer to Figure 3The heat dissipation assembly 13 includes a refrigerant pipe 300 for circulating the cooling medium, and a refrigerant plate 400 connected to the refrigerant pipe 300. The refrigerant plate 400 is connected to the electronic control board 12 and can conduct heat. Here, "conducting heat" can be understood as heat exchange between the refrigerant plate 400 and the electronic control board 12. For example, the refrigerant plate 400 can be in direct contact with the electronic control board 12, or the refrigerant plate 400 can be bonded to the electronic control board 12 using thermal grease, thermal paste, or thermal adhesive, or the refrigerant plate 400 and the electronic control board 12 can be spaced apart and connected by other structural components, with the refrigerant plate 400 exchanging heat with the electronic control board 12 through air. This application does not limit the specific connection method between the refrigerant plate 400 and the electronic control board 12, as long as heat exchange can occur between them. The material used to make the refrigerant plate 400 can include at least one of the following materials with good thermal conductivity: aluminum, copper, or stainless steel.

[0058] With the above configuration, the cooling medium can absorb the heat generated by the operation of the electronic control board 12 as it flows through the refrigerant pipe 300 and the refrigerant plate 400, thus dissipating heat for the electronic control board 12. Furthermore, the refrigerant plate 400 can increase the area for heat exchange of the cooling medium, improving the heat dissipation effect.

[0059] In one embodiment, the refrigerant piping 300 includes a first piping 310, a second piping 320, and a connecting piping 330. The refrigerant plate 400 has a first channel 410 and a second channel 420 spaced apart from the first channel 410. The connecting channel connects the first channel 410 and the second channel 420, and the first piping 310 and the second piping 320 are respectively connected to the first channel 410 and the second channel 420. For example, the first piping 310 can be connected to the first channel 410, and the second piping 320 can be connected to the second channel 420. One of the first piping 310 and the second piping 320 is an input end of the cooling medium, and the other is an output end of the cooling medium. For example, the first piping 310 can be an input end of the cooling medium, and the second piping 320 can be an output end of the cooling medium. Accordingly, the cooling medium can flow through the refrigerant pipe 300 and the refrigerant plate 400 in the following order: first pipe 310, first channel 410, connecting pipe 330, second channel 420, and second pipe 320. Alternatively, the second pipe 320 can be the input end of the cooling medium, and the first pipe 310 can be the output end of the cooling medium. Accordingly, the cooling medium can flow through the refrigerant pipe 300 and the refrigerant plate 400 in the following order: second pipe 320, second channel 420, connecting pipe 330, first channel 410, and first pipe 310.

[0060] Please combine Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4The housing 100 has a heat dissipation vent 140, which is closer to the bottom wall 121 than the top wall 111 in the first direction x. The housing 100 also has an air inlet 150 spaced apart from the heat dissipation vent 140 in the second direction y. The heat dissipation vent 140 and the air inlet 150 are located on opposite sides of the main cavity 130. The heat dissipation vent 140 is located at the end of the electrical control box 10 closer to the fan, and the fan faces the heat dissipation vent 140. Correspondingly, the air inlet 150 is located at the end of the electrical control box 10 away from the fan. For example, the air inlet 150 can be located at at least one of the following: the bottom wall 121 of the housing 100, the end of the housing 100 away from the heat dissipation vent 140, or the refrigerant support 122.

[0061] Both the heat dissipation vent 140 and the air inlet 150 are connected to the main cavity 130 to form a cooling air duct 160 between the heat dissipation vent 140 and the air inlet 150. The cooling air duct 160 is connected to the main cavity 130, and the main cavity 130 includes at least a portion of the cooling air duct 160. When the fan is working normally and drawing gas from the outdoor unit of the air conditioner, the airflow can flow through the air inlet 150, the cooling air duct 160, and the heat dissipation vent 140 in sequence under negative pressure, passing through the electrical control box 10. Thus, when the airflow passes through the main cavity 130, it can absorb the heat generated by the electrical control board 12 and dissipate heat for the electrical control board 12.

[0062] Please combine Figure 1 and Figure 5 There are multiple heat dissipation vents 140, and each heat dissipation vent 140 can be set at intervals in the third direction z to increase the airflow in the cooling air duct 160 and improve the heat dissipation effect of the electronic control board 12.

[0063] In one embodiment, the housing 100 is provided with a waterproof structure 170, which includes a first waterproof portion 171 and a second waterproof portion 172. A plurality of first waterproof portions 171 are spaced apart along a third direction z, and a plurality of second waterproof portions 172 are also spaced apart along the third direction z, with one second waterproof portion 172 between two adjacent first waterproof portions 171. In a second direction y, at least a portion of the first waterproof portions 171 and at least a portion of the second waterproof portions 172 are spaced apart, that is, the first waterproof portions 171 and the second waterproof portions 172 are spaced apart in the second direction y. Each heat dissipation opening 140 is formed between an adjacent first waterproof portion 171 and a second waterproof portion 172.

[0064] With the above configuration, the first waterproof part 171 and the second waterproof part 172 can be used to block water droplets in the airflow from entering the electrical control box 10 through the heat dissipation port 140, thereby improving the waterproof effect of the electrical control box 10 and reducing the possibility of the electrical control board 12 being damaged by water.

[0065] Please refer to the above again. Figure 4Multiple air inlets 150 can be provided, and each air inlet 150 can be located at any of the following locations: the bottom wall 121 of the housing 100, the end of the housing 100 away from the heat dissipation port 140, or the refrigerant support 122.

[0066] In one example, the air inlet 150 may include a first air inlet 151, which is located on the bottom wall 121 and faces the top wall 111. In the example where the control board 12 is located on the top wall 111, the bottom wall 121 and the first air inlet 151 located on the bottom wall 121 are further away from the control board 12 than the top wall 111, and the first air inlet 151 faces the control board 12. With the above arrangement, when the airflow enters the main cavity 130 through the first air inlet 151, the airflow is directed towards the control board 12, which is beneficial for the heat dissipation of the control board 12. Furthermore, when water accumulates on the control box 10 due to unexpected situations such as fan reversal or water leakage from the housing 100, the water on the bottom wall 121 can be discharged through the first air inlet 151.

[0067] In another example, the air inlet 150 may include a second air inlet 152 located at the end opposite to the heat dissipation vent 140. For example, the second air inlet 152 may be formed between the top wall 111 and the bottom wall 121.

[0068] In yet another example, the air inlet 150 may include a third air inlet 153 located on the refrigerant bracket 122.

[0069] With the above configuration, the first air inlet 151, the second air inlet 152 and the third air inlet 153 can all form a cooling air duct 160 with the heat dissipation port 140. The airflow can enter the main cavity 130 through at least one of the first air inlet 151, the second air inlet 152 and the third air inlet 153, which increases the airflow in the cooling air duct 160 and is beneficial to the heat dissipation of the electronic control board 12.

[0070] In the above example, there can be multiple first air inlets 151, second air inlets 152 and third air inlets 153, and the first air inlets 151, second air inlets 152 and third air inlets 153 can be circular, rectangular or other shapes. This application does not limit the shape and number of the first air inlets 152 and third air inlets 153.

[0071] Please refer to Figure 2The outer casing assembly 11 also includes a partition 200, which is connected to the casing 100 and disposed between the top wall 111 and the bottom wall 121. The partition 200 forms a waterproof channel 180 between the heat dissipation vent 140 and the main cavity 130. The waterproof channel 180 can be formed solely by the partition 200, or it can be formed jointly by the partition 200 and the inner wall of the casing 100. The waterproof channel 180 can be arranged in a bent and meandering manner; "bent and meandering" here can be understood as not extending in a straight line, for example, the waterproof channel 180 can be U-shaped, S-shaped, or spiral-shaped. The waterproof channel 180 communicates with and includes at least a portion of the cooling air duct 160. For example, the cooling air duct 160 can be formed jointly by the waterproof channel 180 and the main cavity 130. The waterproof channel 180 connects the heat dissipation port 140 and the main cavity 130, and is located between the heat dissipation port 140 and the main cavity 130. The heat dissipation port 140, the waterproof channel 180, and the main cavity 130 can be arranged sequentially in the second direction y. Correspondingly, when the fan is working normally and drawing gas from the outdoor unit of the air conditioner, the airflow can flow through the air inlet 150, the main cavity 130, the waterproof channel 180, and the heat dissipation port 140 in sequence, passing through the electrical control box 10.

[0072] With the above settings, when unexpected situations such as fan reversal cause water droplets to enter the housing 100 from the heat dissipation port 140 with the airflow, the inner wall of the waterproof channel 180 can block some or even all of the water droplets, reducing the possibility of water droplets entering the main cavity 130 and reducing the possibility of the electrical control board 12 being damaged by water, thus improving the waterproof effect of the electrical control box 10.

[0073] Specifically, the first vent 181 and the second vent 182 in the waterproof channel 180 are both connected to the heat dissipation vent 140, and the heat dissipation vent 140, the first vent 181 and the second vent 182 can be arranged sequentially in the second direction y. Correspondingly, the airflow entering the electrical control box 10 from the air inlet 150 can flow sequentially through the main cavity 130, the second vent 182 and the first vent 181, and then flow out of the electrical control box 10 from the heat dissipation vent 140.

[0074] The heat dissipation vent 140 is closer to the bottom wall 121 than the first vent 181. Therefore, water droplets entering the waterproof channel 180 from the heat dissipation vent 140 are less likely to enter the first vent 181 with the airflow, reducing the possibility of water droplets entering the main cavity 130 and improving the waterproof performance of the control box 10. The first vent 181 is closer to the top wall 111 than the second vent 182. Therefore, water droplets entering the first vent 181 are less likely to enter the second vent 182 with the airflow, reducing the possibility of water droplets entering the main cavity 130 and improving the waterproof performance of the control box 10.

[0075] The projections of the first vent 181 and the second vent 182 in the second direction y do not overlap. Therefore, the waterproof channel 180 can be arranged in a tortuous manner, which can prevent rainwater or other water droplets from the heat dissipation vent 140 from directly entering the main cavity 130 along the second direction y. It can also block some or even all water droplets, reducing the possibility of water droplets entering the main cavity 130, thereby reducing the possibility of the electronic control board 12 being damaged by water, improving the waterproof effect of the electronic control box 10, and ensuring the normal operation of the electronic control box 10.

[0076] Please combine Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 The partition 200 includes a first partition 210, which can be perpendicular to the second direction y and can extend along the third direction z. The first partition 210 is disposed in and located within the housing 100. For example, the first partition 210 can be disposed on the bottom wall 121 and form an integral part with the base 120. The first partition 210 is located between the heat dissipation vent 140 and the main cavity 130. The heat dissipation vent 140, the first partition 210, and the main cavity 130 can be arranged sequentially in the second direction y. The first partition 210 and the housing 100 together form a first waterproof cavity 183, that is, the first waterproof cavity 183 can be formed by the first partition 210 and at least part of the inner wall of the housing 100. The heat dissipation vent 140 and the first ventilation vent 181 are both connected to the first waterproof cavity 183, and the heat dissipation vent 140 and the first ventilation vent 181 are located on both sides of the first waterproof cavity 183. The heat dissipation vent 140, the first waterproof cavity 183 and the first ventilation vent 181 can be arranged sequentially in the second direction y.

[0077] With the above settings, when water droplets enter the housing 100 from the heat dissipation port 140 with the airflow, the inner wall of the first partition 210 and the first waterproof cavity 183 can block some or even all of the water droplets, reducing the possibility of water droplets entering the main cavity 130 and reducing the possibility of the electronic control board 12 being damaged by water, thus improving the waterproof effect of the electronic control box 10.

[0078] In the above example, the first vent 181 can be located between the first partition 210 and the top wall 111, and is formed by the first partition 210 and the top wall 111 being spaced apart. Alternatively, the first vent 181 can also be provided on the first partition 210.

[0079] In one embodiment, the projections of the first partition 210 and the heat dissipation vent 140 overlap in a plane perpendicular to the second direction y. Therefore, the first partition 210 can shield the heat dissipation vent 140 and block water droplets, reducing the likelihood of water droplets entering the main cavity 130 and improving the waterproof performance of the control box 10. In some implementations, the projection of the heat dissipation vent 140 is located within the projection of the first partition 210 in a plane perpendicular to the second direction y. This improves the water-blocking effect of the first partition 210 and enhances the waterproof performance of the control box 10.

[0080] Please combine Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 The partition 200 also includes a second partition 220, which can be perpendicular to the second direction y and can extend along the third direction z. The second partition 220 is disposed in the housing 100 and located within the housing 100. For example, the second partition 220 can be disposed on the top wall 111 and form an integral part with the top cover 110. The second partition 220 is spaced apart from the first partition 210 in the second direction y and is located between the first partition 210 and the main cavity 130. Accordingly, the first partition 210, the second partition 220 and the main cavity 130 can be arranged sequentially in the second direction y. The second partition 220, the first partition 210 and at least part of the inner wall of the housing 100 together form a second waterproof cavity 184, which is formed between the first partition 210 and the second partition 220. The second waterproof cavity 184 communicates with the first vent 181 and is also connected to the first waterproof cavity 183 through the first vent 181. The second waterproof cavity 184 is also connected to the second vent 182, and through the second vent 182, it is connected to the main cavity 130. The first vent 181 and the second vent 182 can be spaced apart in the second direction y, and are located on both sides of the second waterproof cavity 184 respectively. Accordingly, the first waterproof cavity 183, the first vent 181, the second waterproof cavity 184, the second vent 182, and the main cavity 130 are arranged sequentially in the second direction y, and the first waterproof cavity 183, the first vent 181, the second waterproof cavity 184, and the second vent 182 together constitute the waterproof channel 180.

[0081] With the above settings, when water droplets enter the second waterproof cavity 184 from the first vent 181 with the airflow, the second partition 220 and the inner wall of the second waterproof cavity 184 can block the water droplets, reducing the possibility of water droplets entering the main cavity 130 and reducing the possibility of the electrical control board 12 being damaged by water, thereby improving the waterproof effect of the electrical control box 10.

[0082] In the above example, the second vent 182 can be located between the second partition 220 and the bottom wall 121, and is formed by the second partition 220 and the bottom wall 121 being spaced apart. Alternatively, the second vent 182 can also be provided on the second partition 220.

[0083] In one embodiment, the projection of the second partition 220 and the projection of the first vent 181 overlap in a plane perpendicular to the second direction y. With this arrangement, the second partition 220 can block the first vent 181 and prevent water droplets from entering the main cavity 130, thus improving the waterproof effect of the electrical control box 10.

[0084] In one embodiment, the projections of the first partition 210 and the second partition 220 may overlap in a plane perpendicular to the second direction y. For example, the overlap size of the projections of the first partition 210 and the second partition 220 in the first direction x may be in the range of 5 mm to 20 mm; the overlap size of the projections of the first partition 210 and the second partition 220 in the third direction z may be in the range of 10 mm to 20 mm.

[0085] Please refer to Figure 7 In one embodiment, in a plane perpendicular to the second direction y, the projection of the second partition 220 overlaps with the projection of the electronic device 12a on the control board 12. Through this arrangement, the second partition 220 can shield the electronic device 12a, reducing the possibility of damage from water.

[0086] Please combine Figure 2 and Figure 7 A water-blocking protrusion 123 is provided on the bottom wall 121. The water-blocking protrusion 123 can extend along a third direction z and connect the opposite sides of the housing 100 in the third direction z. The water-blocking protrusion 123 is located inside the main cavity 130 and can be spaced apart from the second partition 220 in the second direction y. For example, the first partition 210, the second partition 220, and the water-blocking protrusion 123 can be arranged sequentially in the second direction y, and the second partition 220 can be located between the first partition 210 and the water-blocking protrusion 123. In a plane perpendicular to the second direction y, the projection of the water-blocking protrusion 123 and the projection of the second vent 182 have an overlapping area, that is, the water-blocking protrusion 123 can block at least part of the second vent 182. Thus, the water-blocking protrusion 123 can block water droplets, reduce the possibility of water droplets entering the main cavity 130, and improve the waterproof effect of the electrical control box 10.

[0087] The outer casing assembly 11 has a water storage tank 124, which is located on the bottom wall 121 and is enclosed by a water-blocking protrusion 123, a partition 200, and at least a portion of the casing 100. For example, the water storage tank 124 can be enclosed by the water-blocking protrusion 123, the first partition 210, and at least a portion of the inner wall of the casing 100. The water storage tank 124 communicates with the second vent 182 and the second waterproof cavity 184, and in the first direction x, the second partition 220, the second vent 182, and the water storage tank 124 can be arranged sequentially. The casing 100 is provided with a drain outlet 125, which is located on the bottom wall 121 and communicates with the water storage tank 124. With the above arrangement, the water storage tank 124 can be used to accumulate water droplets blocked by the second partition 220 and drain the accumulated water out of the electrical control box 10 through the drain outlet 125.

[0088] In one embodiment, the bottom of the water storage tank 124 is inclined toward the drain outlet 125. This facilitates the discharge of accumulated water in the water storage tank 124 into the control box 10 through the drain outlet 125.

[0089] In one embodiment, the first waterproof cavity 183 may also be connected to the drain outlet 125. Thus, water accumulated in the first waterproof cavity 183 can be discharged from the electrical control box 10 through the drain outlet 125.

[0090] This application embodiment also provides another electrical control box 10, which includes an outer box assembly, an electrical control board 12, and a heat dissipation assembly 13.

[0091] The outer casing assembly 11 includes a housing 100 and a partition 200. The housing 100 has a top wall 111 and a bottom wall 121 spaced apart in a first direction x, and a main cavity 130 is defined between the top wall 111 and the bottom wall 121. The housing 100 also has a heat dissipation port 140 and an air inlet 150. The air inlet 150 and the heat dissipation port 140 are arranged in a second direction y and are respectively connected to opposite sides of the main cavity 130 to form a cooling air duct 160.

[0092] A partition 200 is disposed between the top wall 111 and the bottom wall 121, and the partition 200 forms a waterproof channel 180 between the heat dissipation port 140 and the main cavity 130. The waterproof channel 180 has a first vent 181 communicating with the heat dissipation port 140 and a second vent 182 communicating with the main cavity 130. In the first direction x, the heat dissipation port 140 is closer to the bottom wall 121 than the first vent 181, and the first vent 181 is closer to the top wall 111 than the second vent 182. The air inlet 150 is located on the bottom wall 121 of the housing 100, at the end of the housing 100 away from the heat dissipation port 140, or on a side structure connecting the top wall 111 and the bottom wall 121. The electronic control board 12 is disposed in the main cavity 130, and the heat dissipation assembly 13 is used to dissipate heat from the electronic control board 12 through the phase change of the cooling working fluid.

[0093] With the above settings, airflow can enter the main cavity 130 through air inlets 150 at different locations, which is beneficial for heat dissipation of the electronic control board 12.

[0094] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and are not intended to limit them; although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or make equivalent substitutions for some or as many of the technical features as possible; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. An electric control box, characterized by, include: The outer casing assembly defines the main cavity; The electronic control board is located inside the main cavity; A heat dissipation assembly, used to dissipate heat from the electronic control board through a phase change of the cooling working fluid, the heat dissipation assembly comprising: Refrigerant piping, wherein a cooling working fluid is circulated within the refrigerant piping; A refrigerant plate is disposed in the main cavity, a refrigerant pipeline is connected to the refrigerant plate, the refrigerant plate is connected to the electronic control board, and is used to absorb the heat generated by the electronic control board through the phase change of the cooling working fluid in the refrigerant pipeline; The housing assembly includes: The housing has a top wall and a bottom wall spaced apart in a first direction, and the main cavity is defined between the top wall and the bottom wall. The housing also has a heat dissipation port and an air inlet, which are arranged in a second direction and respectively connected to opposite sides of the main cavity to form a cooling air duct. The second direction intersects with the first direction. A partition is disposed between the top wall and the bottom wall, and the partition forms a waterproof channel between the heat dissipation port and the main cavity. The waterproof channel has a first vent communicating with the heat dissipation port and a second vent communicating with the main cavity. In the first direction, the heat dissipation port is closer to the bottom wall than the first vent, and the first vent is closer to the top wall than the second vent. The projections of the first vent and the second vent in the second direction do not overlap.

2. The electric control box according to claim 1, wherein The partition specifically includes: The first partition is disposed inside the housing and located between the heat dissipation port and the main cavity. The first partition and the housing together form a first waterproof cavity that communicates with the heat dissipation port. The second partition is disposed inside the housing and located between the first partition and the main cavity. A second waterproof cavity is formed between the second partition and the first partition. The second waterproof cavity is connected to the first waterproof cavity through the first vent. The second waterproof cavity is also connected to the main cavity through the second vent. The first waterproof cavity, the first vent, the second waterproof cavity, and the second vent sequentially form the waterproof channel.

3. The electric control box according to claim 2, wherein The control board is equipped with electronic devices, and in a plane perpendicular to the second direction, the projection of the second partition and the projection of the electronic devices have an overlapping area.

4. The electric control box according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The bottom wall is provided with a water-blocking protrusion located inside the main cavity. The water-blocking protrusion, the partition, and at least part of the shell form a water storage tank. The water storage tank is located on the bottom wall, and the bottom wall is provided with a drain outlet communicating with the water storage tank.

5. The electric control box according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The housing has a refrigerant support connected between the top wall and the bottom wall, the refrigerant support being used to support the heat dissipation assembly and located between opposite ends of the housing in the second direction; The air inlet is located on the bottom wall of the housing, at the end of the housing opposite to the heat dissipation port, or on the refrigerant support.

6. The electric control box according to claim 5, wherein The air inlet specifically includes at least one of the following: The first air inlet is located on the bottom wall, and in the first direction, the bottom wall is farther away from the electronic control board than the top wall; The second air inlet is located at the end of the housing that is away from the heat dissipation vent. The third air inlet is located on the refrigerant bracket.

7. The electric control box according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by The housing is provided with a waterproof structure, which includes a plurality of first waterproof parts and a plurality of second waterproof parts. The plurality of first waterproof parts and the plurality of second waterproof parts are all spaced apart along a third direction, and the first waterproof parts and the second waterproof parts are spaced apart in the second direction, so that the heat dissipation vent is formed between the first waterproof parts and the second waterproof parts.

8. The electric control box according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by The housing includes two components that together define the main cavity, and at least one of the components is a bulk molding compound.

9. An electric control box characterized by comprising: include: The outer casing assembly defines the main cavity; The electronic control board is located inside the main cavity; A heat dissipation assembly, the heat dissipation assembly being used to dissipate heat from the electronic control board through the phase change of the cooling working fluid; The housing assembly includes: The housing has a top wall and a bottom wall spaced apart in a first direction, and the main cavity is defined between the top wall and the bottom wall. The housing also has a heat dissipation port and an air inlet, which are arranged in a second direction and respectively connected to opposite sides of the main cavity to form a cooling air duct. The second direction intersects with the first direction. A partition is disposed between the top wall and the bottom wall, and the partition forms a waterproof channel between the heat dissipation port and the main cavity. The waterproof channel has a first vent communicating with the heat dissipation port and a second vent communicating with the main cavity. In the first direction, the heat dissipation port is closer to the bottom wall than the first vent, and the first vent is closer to the top wall than the second vent. The air inlet is located on the bottom wall of the housing, at the end of the housing opposite to the heat dissipation port, or on a side structure connecting the top wall and the bottom wall.

10. An air conditioner characterized by comprising: include: An air conditioner outdoor unit and an air conditioner indoor unit, wherein the air conditioner outdoor unit includes a casing, a fan, and an electrical control box as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the fan is disposed in the casing, the electrical control box is disposed inside the casing, and one end of the fan faces the casing and is provided with the heat dissipation vent.

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