An air conditioning device
By installing refrigerant detection devices in air conditioning equipment, the problem of untimely detection of R454B refrigerant leaks has been solved, enabling rapid response and safe handling of refrigerant leaks and reducing safety risks.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- MIDEA GRP WUHAN HEATING & VENTILATING EQUIP CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-23
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-31
AI Technical Summary
Existing air conditioning equipment cannot detect refrigerant leaks in a timely manner when using R454B refrigerant, posing a significant safety risk.
A refrigerant detection device is installed in the air conditioning equipment, located near the welded part of the refrigerant pipeline, to quickly detect refrigerant leaks, and is equipped with an alarm component to issue an alarm or stop operation.
It enables timely detection and handling of refrigerant leaks, reduces safety risks, and improves the safety and reliability of the equipment.
Smart Images

Figure CN224580417U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and more particularly to an air conditioning device. Background Technology
[0002] This section is intended to provide background or context for embodiments of this application. The description herein is not intended to imply that it is prior art simply because it is included in this section.
[0003] In related technologies, air conditioning equipment may experience refrigerant leakage during use. Refrigerant leakage not only affects the performance of air conditioning equipment but may also cause environmental pollution. Therefore, it is crucial to be able to determine in a timely manner whether there is a refrigerant leak. Utility Model Content
[0004] In view of this, the present application aims to provide an air conditioning device that can detect refrigerant leaks in a timely manner, thereby reducing safety risks.
[0005] This application provides an air conditioning device, including:
[0006] shell;
[0007] A heat exchanger assembly is disposed within the housing, the heat exchanger assembly including a refrigerant line for flowing refrigerant, the refrigerant line having at least one welded portion;
[0008] A refrigerant detection element is disposed within the housing and located at at least one of the welded locations, the refrigerant detection element being used to detect refrigerant leaks.
[0009] In some embodiments, the refrigerant pipeline includes a refrigerant coil and a refrigerant delivery pipe, wherein the refrigerant delivery pipe is used to output refrigerant from the refrigerant coil or to input refrigerant into the refrigerant coil, and the refrigerant delivery pipe is welded to the refrigerant coil through the welding point.
[0010] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the refrigerant detection element is located below at least one welded joint between the refrigerant coil and the refrigerant delivery pipe.
[0011] In some embodiments, the refrigerant piping includes a refrigerant coil, the refrigerant coil includes a connecting section and a plurality of bent pipe sections, any two of the bent pipe sections are connected through a connecting section to form a continuous pipe, the connecting section and the bent pipe sections are welded together through the welding point, and all the welding points of the connecting section and the bent pipe sections are located on the same side of the refrigerant coil.
[0012] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the refrigerant detection element is located below at least one welded portion of the connection section and the bent pipe section.
[0013] In some embodiments, the air conditioning device includes a drip tray disposed below the refrigerant piping, and the refrigerant detection element is located above the drip tray.
[0014] In some embodiments, the air conditioning device includes a drain element disposed below a portion of the refrigerant piping, the drain element being located on the side of the drip tray away from the air outlet of the housing, the drain element being used to guide condensate generated in the refrigerant piping to the drip tray, and a seal filling at least a portion of the gap between the drain element and the refrigerant piping.
[0015] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger assembly includes a mounting bracket disposed within the housing, and both the refrigerant piping and the refrigerant detection element are disposed on the mounting bracket.
[0016] In some embodiments, the air conditioning device includes a bracket, the refrigerant detection element is mounted on the mounting frame via the bracket, the bracket includes a connecting portion and a insert, the insert is connected to the connecting portion, the mounting frame has a socket, the insert is inserted into the socket, and the connecting portion is connected to the mounting frame.
[0017] In some embodiments, the mounting bracket includes a first plate, a second plate, and a third plate, the second plate and the third plate being connected to the two ends of the first plate along a first direction, the refrigerant pipeline being disposed on the second plate and the third plate, the refrigerant detection element being disposed on the second plate, and the first direction being perpendicular to the vertical direction.
[0018] In some embodiments, the air conditioning device includes a baffle, the refrigerant piping includes a refrigerant coil, the refrigerant coil includes a connecting section and a plurality of bent pipe sections, any two of the bent pipe sections are connected through a connecting section to form a continuous pipe, the connecting section and the bent pipe sections are welded together at the welding points, all the welding points of the connecting section and the bent pipe sections are located on the side of the second plate away from the third plate, the baffle connects to the housing to define an empty space, and the bent parts of the bent pipe sections are located within the empty space.
[0019] In some embodiments, the air conditioning device includes a fan, the housing has an air inlet space and an air outlet space, the fan is located in the air inlet space, and the heat exchanger assembly and the refrigerant detection element are both located in the air outlet space.
[0020] In some embodiments, the air conditioning device includes a bracket having two mounting positions, with the refrigerant detection element selectively disposed in one of the mounting positions.
[0021] In some embodiments, the bracket includes a mounting buckle located at one of the mounting positions, the refrigerant detection element includes a first detection element having a slot, and at least a portion of the mounting buckle is inserted into the slot and connected by a fastener.
[0022] In some embodiments, the bracket includes a fixed platform, a support plate, and an anti-rotation plate. The support plate and the fixed platform are spaced apart in the vertical direction. The fixed platform forms a limiting groove, which is located at another of the mounting positions. The anti-rotation plate is folded from the support plate toward the side where the limiting groove is located. The refrigerant detection element includes a second detection element. One end of the second detection element is disposed in the limiting groove, and the other end of the second detection element abuts against the anti-rotation plate and is connected to the support plate by fasteners.
[0023] The air conditioning equipment provided in this application embodiment has a refrigerant detection element housed within the outer casing, which protects the refrigerant detection element. Since the welded sections of the refrigerant piping are prone to refrigerant leaks, the refrigerant detection element is positioned at the welded section, adjacent to it. This allows for rapid detection of refrigerant leaks from the welded section, enabling timely intervention and mitigation of safety risks. Attached Figure Description
[0024] Figure 1 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of an air conditioning device provided in some embodiments of this application;
[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioning device from another perspective, provided for some embodiments of this application;
[0026] Figure 3 This application provides structural schematic diagrams of mounting brackets and supports assembled according to some embodiments;
[0027] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;
[0028] Figure 5 Schematic diagrams of the structure of the bracket provided in some embodiments of this application;
[0029] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioning device from another perspective, provided for some embodiments of this application;
[0030] Figure 7 for Figure 2 Enlarged view at point B in the middle;
[0031] Figure 8This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the mounting bracket, support, and refrigerant detection element provided in some embodiments of this application, wherein the refrigerant detection element is the first detection element;
[0032] Figure 9 for Figure 8 The diagram shows the structural arrangement of the bracket and refrigerant detection component.
[0033] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the mounting bracket, support, and refrigerant detection element provided in some embodiments of this application, wherein the refrigerant detection element is a second detection element;
[0034] Figure 11 for Figure 10 The diagram shows the structural arrangement of the bracket and refrigerant detection component.
[0035] Figure 12 for Figure 9 The structure shown is a cross-sectional view from another perspective.
[0036] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures
[0037] 100. Air conditioning equipment;
[0038] 1. Outer casing; 1a. Air intake space; 1b. Air outlet space; 1c. Unused space; 1d. Detection space;
[0039] 2. Heat exchanger assembly; 21. Refrigerant piping; 211. Refrigerant coil; 212. Refrigerant delivery pipe; 212a. Refrigerant outlet pipe; 212b. Refrigerant inlet pipe;
[0040] 3. Refrigerant testing component; 31. First testing component; 31a. Slot; 32. Second testing component; 4. Water drip tray;
[0041] 5. Mounting bracket; 5a. Insertion hole; 51. First plate; 52. Second plate; 53. Third plate;
[0042] 6. Bracket; 61. Connecting part; 62. Insert; 63. Mounting buckle; 64. Fixing platform; 64a. Limiting groove; 65. Support plate; 66. Anti-rotation plate;
[0043] 7. Baffle; 8. Fan;
[0044] 9. Drainage component; 91. Baffle plate; 91a. Baffle channel; 92. Water blocking part. Detailed Implementation
[0045] The embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are used to illustrate this application, but should not be used to limit the scope of this application.
[0046] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the "first direction" orientation or positional relationship is based on Figure 3 and Figure 6 The orientation or positional relationship shown, the "up and down direction" orientation or positional relationship is based on Figures 1 to 3 , Figure 6 The orientation or positional relationship shown is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it should not be construed as a limitation on the embodiments of this application.
[0047] The various specific technical features and embodiments described in the detailed embodiments can be combined in any suitable manner without contradiction. For example, different combinations of specific technical features / embodiments can form different implementation methods. To avoid unnecessary repetition, the various possible combinations of various specific technical features / embodiments in this application will not be described separately. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. The application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.
[0048] It should be noted that in this application, "down" refers to the direction towards the ground, and "up" is the opposite direction, that is, the direction towards the sky.
[0049] In this application, "at least one" means that the quantity includes one or more. "Multiple" means that the quantity includes two or more.
[0050] In related technologies, air conditioning equipment typically uses R410A refrigerant. However, due to its high GWP (Global Warming Potential), R410A is considered to deplete the ozone layer and harm the environment. Because of new regulations in some countries or regions, such as North America, air conditioning equipment is required to use R454B refrigerant instead of R410A. R454B has a lower GWP and is a cost-effective alternative to R410A. However, R454B is slightly flammable, and air conditioning equipment lacks corresponding refrigerant detection devices. Therefore, leaks of R454B cannot be detected during operation, posing a significant safety risk.
[0051] Please see Figures 1 to 6This application provides an air conditioning device 100, including a housing 1, a heat exchanger assembly 2, and a refrigerant detection element 3. The heat exchanger assembly 2 is disposed inside the housing 1 and includes a refrigerant pipeline 21 for circulating refrigerant. The refrigerant pipeline 21 has at least one welded part. The refrigerant detection element 3 is disposed inside the housing 1 and located at the location of at least one welded part. The refrigerant detection element 3 is used to detect refrigerant leakage.
[0052] The housing 1 provides installation space for the heat exchanger assembly 2 and the refrigerant detection element 3, and the housing 1 protects the heat exchanger assembly 2 and the refrigerant detection element 3.
[0053] Refrigerant is a fluid that can flow. It is a fluid that easily absorbs heat and becomes a gaseous phase, and easily releases heat and becomes a liquid phase. Refrigerant can undergo phase changes after absorbing or releasing heat.
[0054] Heat exchanger assembly 2 is used for heat exchange between two or more fluids at different temperatures. Exemplarily, heat exchanger assembly 2 can realize heat exchange between an airflow and a refrigerant. A refrigerant conduit 21 is used to flow the refrigerant, which exchanges heat with the airflow flowing over the outer surface of the refrigerant conduit 21, releasing heat from the refrigerant to the airflow or absorbing heat from the airflow to regulate the airflow temperature. For example, raising or lowering the airflow temperature. Taking the example of heat exchanger assembly 2 lowering the airflow temperature, heat exchanger assembly 2 is a device that uses refrigerant to absorb heat to cool the airflow.
[0055] The refrigerant pipe 21 has at least one welded part. A welded part is a part where a welded connection is made. The refrigerant pipe 21 may have one or more welded parts, that is, the refrigerant pipe 21 has one or more parts connected by welding.
[0056] The refrigerant detection element 3 is installed inside the housing 1 and located at the welded part. In other words, the refrigerant detection element 3 is located around the welded part and is adjacent to the welded part. Since the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant in the refrigerant pipeline 21 change repeatedly during the use of the air conditioning equipment 100, the welded part is a weak point that is prone to refrigerant leakage. In the event of a refrigerant leak due to a crack in the welded part, the refrigerant detection element 3 can quickly detect the refrigerant.
[0057] For example, the air conditioning unit 100 includes an alarm component that can issue an alarm or reminder signal when the refrigerant detection element 3 detects a refrigerant leak, thereby enabling timely detection and handling.
[0058] For example, if the refrigerant detection element 3 detects a refrigerant leak, the heat exchanger assembly 2 can stop working, while the fan 8 of the air conditioning equipment 100 continues to work, thus reducing the refrigerant concentration.
[0059] For example, one or more welded locations may be adjacent to the refrigerant detection element 3; the specific number of welded locations is not limited in this embodiment. In this way, the refrigerant detection element 3 can simultaneously detect whether refrigerant leakage has occurred at one or more welded locations.
[0060] The specific type of air conditioning equipment 100 is not limited. For example, air conditioning equipment 100 includes an indoor air conditioning unit, which can be installed in the ceiling, suspended ceiling space, wall cabinet, or vertical wall of an indoor space. The indoor air conditioning unit may include a housing 1, a heat exchanger assembly 2, and a refrigerant detection element 3.
[0061] The air conditioning device 100 provided in this application embodiment has a refrigerant detection element 3 disposed inside the outer casing 1, which protects the refrigerant detection element 3. Since the welded portion of the refrigerant pipeline 21 is a location prone to refrigerant leakage, the refrigerant detection element 3 is positioned at the welded portion, adjacent to it. This allows the refrigerant detection element 3 to quickly detect refrigerant leakage from the welded portion, enabling timely detection and handling, and reducing safety risks.
[0062] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The refrigerant piping 21 includes a refrigerant coil 211 and a refrigerant delivery pipe 212. The refrigerant delivery pipe 212 is used to output refrigerant from the refrigerant coil 211 or to input refrigerant into the refrigerant coil 211. The refrigerant delivery pipe 212 and the refrigerant coil 211 are welded together at a welding point. This improves the connection stability between the refrigerant delivery pipe 212 and the refrigerant coil 211.
[0063] In one embodiment, please refer to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The refrigerant delivery pipe 212 includes a refrigerant output pipe 212a and a refrigerant input pipe 212b. Both the refrigerant output pipe 212a and the refrigerant input pipe 212b are welded to the refrigerant coil 211 through a welding point. The refrigerant output pipe 212a is used to output the refrigerant in the refrigerant coil 211, and the refrigerant input pipe 212b is used to input the refrigerant into the refrigerant coil 211.
[0064] For example, the air conditioning equipment 100 includes an outdoor air conditioning unit, which includes a housing and a heat exchanger disposed within the housing. The heat exchanger is used to circulate refrigerant, and the refrigerant delivery pipe 212 can be connected to the heat exchanger through a pipe, such as a copper pipe.
[0065] For example, the refrigerant detection element 3 is located at the welded joint between the refrigerant outlet pipe 212a and the refrigerant coil 211. The refrigerant inlet pipe 212b introduces liquid refrigerant into the refrigerant coil 211. During its flow through the refrigerant coil 211, the liquid refrigerant absorbs heat and transforms into gaseous refrigerant, which is then discharged through the refrigerant outlet pipe 212a. It should be understood that the pressure of the gaseous refrigerant in the refrigerant outlet pipe 212a is greater than the pressure of the liquid refrigerant in the refrigerant inlet pipe 212b. Therefore, the welded joint between the refrigerant outlet pipe 212a and the refrigerant coil 211 is a potential leak point, prone to refrigerant leakage. The refrigerant detection element 3, located at this leak-prone point in the refrigerant pipeline 21, can more quickly and accurately detect refrigerant leaks, further reducing safety risks.
[0066] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 1 At least a portion of the refrigerant detection element 3 is located below the welded joint between at least one refrigerant coil 211 and refrigerant delivery pipe 212.
[0067] It is important to understand that the density of refrigerant is greater than that of air. In the event of a refrigerant leak at the welded joint between the refrigerant coil 211 and the refrigerant delivery pipe 212, the refrigerant will diffuse and deposit downwards under the influence of gravity. At least part of the refrigerant detection element 3 is located below the welded joint between the refrigerant coil 211 and the refrigerant delivery pipe 212. During the downward movement of the refrigerant, the refrigerant detection element 3 can quickly detect the leaking refrigerant.
[0068] As an example, the refrigerant detection element 3 is located below the welded portion of at least one of the refrigerant outlet pipe 212a and the refrigerant inlet pipe 212b.
[0069] In this embodiment, a portion of the refrigerant detection element 3 may be located below the welded joint between the refrigerant coil 211 and the refrigerant delivery pipe 212. Alternatively, the entire refrigerant detection element 3 may be located below the welded joint between the refrigerant coil 211 and the refrigerant delivery pipe 212. Furthermore, there may be multiple welded joints between the refrigerant coil 211 and the refrigerant delivery pipe 212, with the entire refrigerant detection element 3 located below all of these joints. This allows the position of the refrigerant detection element 3 to be adjusted according to the positions of other components within the housing 1, making it suitable for different air conditioning devices 100.
[0070] In one embodiment, the air conditioning device 100 includes a thermal insulation structure that surrounds at least a portion of the outer surface of the refrigerant delivery pipe 212. Exemplarily, the thermal insulation structure may surround the outer surface of the refrigerant outlet pipe 212a, or it may surround the outer surface of the refrigerant inlet pipe 212b, or both the outer surfaces of the refrigerant inlet pipe 212b and the refrigerant outlet pipe 212a may be surrounded by a thermal insulation structure.
[0071] The specific type of insulation structure is not limited; for example, the insulation structure can be insulation cotton.
[0072] In some embodiments, the refrigerant line 21 includes a refrigerant coil 211, which includes a connecting section and multiple bends. Any two bends are connected by a connecting section to form a continuous pipe. The connecting section and the bends are welded together at welded joints, and all welded joints between the connecting section and the bends are located on the same side of the refrigerant coil 211. This improves the stability of the connection between the connecting section and the bends, allowing the refrigerant to flow from the bends through the connecting section to adjacent bends, thus achieving continuous flow within the refrigerant coil 211.
[0073] For example, any two adjacent bends in the pipe are connected by a connecting section to form a continuous pipe.
[0074] Please see Figure 6 All welding points of the connecting sections and bent pipe sections are located on the first side of the refrigerant coil 211 along the first direction. In other words, the refrigerant detection element 3 is located on the first side of the refrigerant coil 211 along the first direction. This facilitates welding of the connecting sections and bent pipe sections, as well as the placement of the refrigerant detection element 3, reducing design and manufacturing complexity. Furthermore, by only needing to install the refrigerant detection element 3 on one side of the refrigerant coil 211, the number of refrigerant detection elements 3 can be reduced, thus lowering production costs.
[0075] It should be noted that the first side and the second side can be two sides that are opposite to each other in the first direction.
[0076] In one embodiment, the bent pipe section is a one-piece molded structure. This reduces production steps and facilitates manufacturing.
[0077] For example, the bent pipe section can be roughly U-shaped, and a straight pipe can be formed into a bent pipe section through a bending process.
[0078] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the refrigerant detection element 3 is located below the welded joint of at least one connecting section and the bend section. Thus, in the event of a refrigerant leak at the welded joint, the refrigerant will diffuse and deposit downwards under gravity. Since the refrigerant detection element 3 is located below the welded joint, it can quickly detect the leaking refrigerant as it moves downwards.
[0079] In this embodiment, a portion of the refrigerant detection element 3 may be located below the welded joint between the connecting section and the bend section. Alternatively, the entire refrigerant detection element 3 may be located below the welded joint between the connecting section and the bend section. Furthermore, there may be multiple welded joints between the connecting section and the bend section, with the entire refrigerant detection element 3 located below all of them. This allows the position of the refrigerant detection element 3 to be adjusted according to the positions of other components within the housing 1, making it suitable for different air conditioning devices 100.
[0080] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 1 The air conditioning unit 100 includes a water collection tray 4, which is located below the refrigerant pipeline 21, and the refrigerant detection element 3 is located above the water collection tray 4. The water collection tray 4 is used to collect condensate from the heat exchanger assembly 2. The condensate is liquid water produced by the condensation of water vapor in the air after the refrigerant in the refrigerant pipeline 21 absorbs heat from the air.
[0081] For example, the refrigerant detection element 3 is located between at least one welded part and the drip tray 4. In the event of refrigerant leakage from the welded part, the refrigerant diffuses downwards and the refrigerant detection element 3 can detect the refrigerant, preventing the drip tray 4 from blocking the flow of refrigerant and causing the refrigerant detection element 3 to fail to detect the leaked refrigerant in time.
[0082] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 7 The air conditioning unit 100 includes a drain element 9, which is located below a portion of the refrigerant piping 21. The drain element 9 is situated on the side of the drip tray 4 away from the air outlet of the outer casing 1. The drain element 9 is used to guide condensate generated in the refrigerant piping 21 to the drip tray 4. A seal fills at least a portion of the gap between the drain element 9 and the refrigerant piping 21. The drain element 9 serves a guiding function, preventing condensate from dripping to other locations.
[0083] The drain component 9 is located on the side of the water tray 4 away from the air outlet of the outer casing 1. That is, in the vertical direction, the drain component 9 is higher than the water tray 4, so that the drain component 9 can guide the condensate into the water tray 4.
[0084] For example, please continue reading Figure 2 and Figure 7 The air outlet of the outer casing 1 connects to the indoor space, and the drain component 9 is located above the air outlet. In this way, the drain component 9 can prevent condensate from dripping into the indoor space through the air outlet and affecting the user experience.
[0085] The seal fills the gap between the drain piece 9 and the refrigerant line 21. In this way, in the event of refrigerant leakage at the welded part of the refrigerant line 21, the seal can prevent the refrigerant from spreading to other spaces, such as the air intake space 1a of the outer casing 1, thereby reducing safety risks.
[0086] The specific type of seal is not limited; for example, the seal may be a sealing cotton.
[0087] In this embodiment, on the one hand, the drain component 9 can guide the condensate generated by the refrigerant pipe 21 into the drip tray 4, preventing the condensate from dripping to other locations. On the other hand, in the event of refrigerant leakage at the welded part of the refrigerant pipe 21, the seal can prevent the refrigerant from spreading to other spaces, reducing safety risks.
[0088] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 2 The end of the drain component 9 that is close to the water receiving pan 4 overlaps the water receiving pan 4. This not only improves the stability of the drain component 9, but also ensures that the condensate flows into the water receiving pan.
[0089] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 7 The drain element 9 is located below the welded portion of at least one refrigerant pipe 21. In this way, in the event of refrigerant leakage from the welded portion, the drain element 9 acts as a barrier to prevent the refrigerant from diffusing, for example, through the air outlet of the casing 1, thus reducing safety risks.
[0090] In one embodiment, the drain element 9 is located below the welded joint of at least one refrigerant coil 211 and refrigerant delivery pipe 212. Exemplarily, the drain element 9 is located below the welded joint of the refrigerant coil 211 and refrigerant outlet pipe 212a. In another embodiment, the drain element 9 is located below the welded joint of at least one connecting section and a bend in the pipe section.
[0091] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 7 The drain component 9 is located within the detection space 1d. This ensures that both the drain component 9 and the refrigerant detection component 3 are on the same side, facilitating assembly. Furthermore, since the welded joint between the connecting section and the bend in the pipe section is located within the detection space 1d, only one drain component 9 is needed to prevent refrigerant leakage from this welded joint, reducing costs.
[0092] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 7 The drain component 9 includes a guide plate 91 and a water-blocking part 92. The guide plate 91 has a guide groove 91a, and the water-blocking part 92 is located on the side of the guide groove 91a away from the water receiving tray 4. Please continue reading. Figure 2 and Figure 7 In other words, the water-blocking part 92 is located on the side of the guide channel 91a close to the air inlet space 1a. In this way, by setting the water-blocking part 92, the risk of refrigerant in the guide channel 91a spreading to the air inlet space 1a can be reduced to a certain extent.
[0093] In one embodiment, the side of the guide channel 91a closest to the water receiving pan 4 is lower in the vertical direction than the side furthest from the water receiving pan 4. In other words, the guide channel 91a is inclined toward the water receiving pan 4, which allows condensate and refrigerant to flow smoothly toward the water receiving pan 4, further reducing the risk of refrigerant diffusing into the air intake space 1a.
[0094] In one embodiment, the outer edge of the guide plate 91 is bent upward to form a water-blocking part, thereby preventing condensate from overflowing from the guide groove 91a.
[0095] In one embodiment, the air conditioning device 100 includes an electrical control box assembly for controlling various components of the air conditioning device 100. The electrical control box assembly is disposed within the housing 1 and located on the side of the heat exchanger assembly 2 near the air inlet space 1a. The drain component 9 is fixed to the electrical control box assembly by fasteners, thereby enhancing the stability of the drain component 9. Furthermore, the drain component 9 is not connected to the heat exchanger assembly 2, so there is no need to disassemble or install the drain component 9 when it is necessary to replace or remove the heat exchanger assembly 2, simplifying the operation steps.
[0096] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 The heat exchanger assembly 2 includes a mounting bracket 5 disposed within the housing 1, and both the refrigerant pipeline 21 and the refrigerant detection element 3 are disposed on the mounting bracket 5. The refrigerant pipeline 21, the refrigerant detection element 3, and the mounting bracket 5 are integrated into one unit, resulting in a compact structure. This facilitates reducing the distance between the refrigerant pipeline 21 and the refrigerant detection element 3, and allows the refrigerant detection element 3 to quickly detect whether there is a refrigerant leak in the refrigerant pipeline 21.
[0097] For example, during the assembly of the air conditioning equipment 100, the refrigerant pipe 21 and the refrigerant detection component 3 can be assembled to the mounting bracket 5 first, and then the mounting bracket 5 can be assembled into the housing 1. This makes it easier for operators to operate and increases production efficiency.
[0098] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 5 The air conditioning unit 100 includes a bracket 6. A refrigerant detection element 3 is mounted on a mounting frame 5 via the bracket 6. The bracket 6 includes a connecting part 61 and a insert 62. The insert 62 connects to the connecting part 61. The mounting frame 5 has a socket 5a into which the insert 62 is inserted. The connecting part 61 connects to the mounting frame 5. The bracket 6 is used to fix the refrigerant detection element 3, ensuring its stability and preventing it from becoming loose or shifting.
[0099] For example, during the assembly process of the air conditioning equipment 100, the refrigerant detection component 3 can be assembled onto the bracket 6 first. The bracket 6 and the mounting frame 5 are positioned by the cooperation of the insert 62 and the socket 5a. Then, the connecting part 61 is connected to the mounting frame 5.
[0100] In one embodiment, the connecting part 61 and the mounting bracket 5 are connected by fasteners, which can enhance the connection stability between the bracket 6 and the mounting bracket 5.
[0101] The type of fastener is not limited; for example, fasteners include, but are not limited to, screws, bolts, or rivets.
[0102] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 The mounting bracket 5 includes a first plate 51, a second plate 52 and a third plate 53. The second plate 52 and the third plate 53 are connected to the two ends of the first plate 51 along the first direction. The refrigerant pipeline 21 is set on the second plate 52 and the third plate 53. The refrigerant detection element 3 is set on the second plate 52. The first direction is perpendicular to the up and down direction.
[0103] For example, the bent pipe section can be inserted through the second plate 52 and the third plate 53. The first plate 51, the second plate 52 and the third plate 53 are generally in the form of a frame structure, which helps to improve the stability of the mounting bracket 5 and the refrigerant detection element 3.
[0104] In some cases, there is also a possibility of refrigerant leakage at non-welded parts of the refrigerant coil 211, such as the bends in the bends of the pipe section.
[0105] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 6 The air conditioning equipment 100 includes a baffle 7, and the refrigerant pipeline 21 includes a refrigerant coil 211. The refrigerant coil 211 includes a connecting section and multiple bent pipe sections. Any two bent pipe sections are connected through a connecting section to form a continuous pipe. The connecting section and the bent pipe sections are welded together at a welding point. All welding points of the connecting section and the bent pipe sections are located on the side of the second plate 52 away from the third plate 53. The baffle 7 is connected to the outer shell 1 to define an empty space 1c. The bent parts of the bent pipe sections are located within the empty space 1c.
[0106] Please continue reading. Figure 6 All the welded parts of the connecting sections and the bent pipe sections, as well as the refrigerant detection component 3, are located on one side of the second plate 52. The empty space 1c is located on the side close to the third plate 53. In other words, the bent part of the bent pipe section is located around the third plate 53.
[0107] For example, the outer casing 1 has a detection space 1d, the welded part of the connecting section and the bent pipe section is located in the detection space 1d, and the empty space 1c is connected to the detection space 1d. In this way, in the event of refrigerant leakage at the bend of the bent pipe section, the baffle 7 blocks the refrigerant, preventing it from spreading to the surroundings, and the refrigerant in the empty space 1c can flow to the detection space 1d, so that the refrigerant detection element 3 can detect the leaked refrigerant.
[0108] In this embodiment, on the one hand, the baffle 7 and the outer casing 1 define an empty space 1c to prevent refrigerant from spreading outwards and becoming undetectable by the refrigerant detection element 3 in the event of refrigerant leakage at the bend of the bent pipe section. On the other hand, the refrigerant detection element 3 only needs to be installed on one side of the second plate 52, which helps to reduce the number of refrigerant detection elements 3 and reduce production costs.
[0109] In one embodiment, an airflow channel is defined between the heat exchanger assembly 2 and the water receiving pan 4. The detection space 1d and the control space are connected through the airflow channel. In the event of refrigerant leakage at the bend of the bent pipe section, the refrigerant sinks to the water receiving pan 4 and flows to the side of the second plate 52 through the airflow channel, so that it can be effectively detected by the refrigerant detection element 3.
[0110] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The air conditioning equipment 100 includes a fan 8. The housing 1 has an air inlet space 1a and an air outlet space 1b. The fan 8 is located in the air inlet space 1a, while the heat exchanger assembly 2 and the refrigerant detection element 3 are both located in the air outlet space 1b. The fan 8 is configured to blow air into the air outlet space 1b to promote airflow, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger assembly 2 and the airflow.
[0111] For example, the outer casing 1 has an air inlet and an air outlet. The air inlet is connected to the air inlet space 1a, and the air outlet is connected to the air outlet space 1b. That is, the external airflow flows into the air inlet space 1a through the air inlet. Driven by the fan 8, the airflow flows to the air outlet space 1b and exchanges heat with the heat exchanger assembly 2 before being discharged through the air outlet, thereby realizing the airflow circulation.
[0112] Please see Figure 1 The heat exchanger assembly 2 and the refrigerant detection element 3 are both located in the air outlet space 1b. In the event of a refrigerant leak in the refrigerant pipeline 21, the risk of refrigerant spreading to the air inlet space 1a is reduced to a certain extent.
[0113] In one embodiment, an air inlet grille is provided at the air inlet, which guides the airflow to flow evenly into the air inlet space 1a.
[0114] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 3 to 5 The air conditioning unit 100 includes a bracket 6 with two mounting positions, where a refrigerant detection element 3 is selectively mounted. Each mounting position refers to the space on the bracket 6 used to secure the refrigerant detection element 3. Different types of refrigerant detection elements 3 can be mounted on each of the two mounting positions. This allows for the selection of a suitable refrigerant detection element 3 to meet the needs of different usage scenarios.
[0115] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 12 The bracket 6 includes a mounting buckle 63 located in one of the mounting positions. The refrigerant detection element 3 includes a first detection element 31 with a slot 31a formed therein. At least a portion of the mounting buckle 63 is inserted into the slot 31a and connected by a fastener.
[0116] Specifically, please refer to Figure 9 and Figure 12 The mounting buckle 63 abuts against the groove wall of the slot 31a. Thus, during the assembly of the first detection component 31 and the bracket 6, the mounting buckle 63 and the slot 31a work together to initially fix the first detection component 31 onto the bracket 6, and then fasteners are used to secure the connection between the first detection component 31 and the bracket 6. This eliminates the need for manual force to maintain the initial fixation of the first detection component 31 and the bracket 6 during assembly, facilitating tightening, reducing installation difficulty, and improving production efficiency. Furthermore, the engagement of the mounting buckle 63 and the slot 31a, along with the fastener connection, enhances the stability of the connection between the first detection component 31 and the bracket 6, preventing the first detection component 31 from loosening or shifting.
[0117] The type of fastener is not limited; for example, fasteners include, but are not limited to, screws, bolts, or rivets.
[0118] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 The bracket 6 includes a fixed platform 64, a support plate 65, and an anti-rotation plate 66. The support plate 65 and the fixed platform 64 are spaced apart in the vertical direction. The fixed platform 64 forms a limiting groove 64a, which is located in another mounting position. The anti-rotation plate 66 is folded from the support plate 65 toward the side where the limiting groove 64a is located. The refrigerant detection element 3 includes a second detection element 32. One end of the second detection element 32 is disposed in the limiting groove 64a, and the other end of the second detection element 32 abuts against the anti-rotation plate 66 and is connected to the support plate 65 by fasteners.
[0119] Specifically, please refer to Figure 11 The peripheral portion of the second detection piece 32 abuts against the groove wall of the limiting groove 64a. Please refer to the following. Figure 5The anti-rotation plate 66 is located on the side of the support plate 65 away from the connecting part 61. During the assembly of the second detection component 32 and the bracket 6, the second detection component 32 can be initially fixed to the bracket 6 through the limiting groove 64a. The second detection component 32 abuts against the anti-rotation plate 66, and then the second detection component 32 and the bracket 6 are firmly connected by fasteners. In this way, during the assembly process, on the one hand, the operator does not need to apply force by hand to keep the second detection component 32 and the bracket 6 initially fixed, which facilitates the operator to tighten the connection, reduces the installation difficulty, and improves production efficiency. On the other hand, during the fastener connection process, the anti-rotation plate 66 can limit the displacement of the second detection component 32 and avoid the problem of the second detection component 32 rotating and deviating. Furthermore, through the snap-fit cooperation between the second detection component 32 and the limiting groove 64a and the fastener connection, the connection stability between the second detection component 32 and the bracket 6 can be enhanced.
[0120] In the description of this specification, the references to the terms "an embodiment," "some embodiments," and "exemplary" refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiments of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in a suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.
[0121] The various embodiments / implementations provided in this application can be combined with each other without creating contradictions. The above descriptions are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. For those skilled in the art, this application can have various modifications and variations. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.
Claims
1. An air conditioning apparatus characterized by comprising: include: shell; A heat exchanger assembly is disposed within the housing, the heat exchanger assembly including a refrigerant line for flowing refrigerant, the refrigerant line having at least one welded portion; A refrigerant detection element is disposed within the housing and located at at least one of the welded locations, the refrigerant detection element being used to detect refrigerant leaks.
2. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The refrigerant pipeline includes a refrigerant coil and a refrigerant delivery pipe. The refrigerant delivery pipe is used to output refrigerant from the refrigerant coil or to input refrigerant into the refrigerant coil. The refrigerant delivery pipe is welded to the refrigerant coil through the welding point.
3. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 2, wherein At least a portion of the refrigerant detection element is located below at least one welded joint between the refrigerant coil and the refrigerant delivery pipe.
4. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The refrigerant pipeline includes a refrigerant coil, which includes a connecting section and multiple bends. Any two bends are connected by a connecting section to form a continuous pipe. The connecting section and the bends are welded together at the welding points. All welding points of the connecting section and the bends are located on the same side of the refrigerant coil.
5. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 4, wherein At least a portion of the refrigerant detection element is located below at least one welded joint between the connecting section and the bent pipe section.
6. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The air conditioning equipment includes a water collection tray, which is located below the refrigerant pipeline, and the refrigerant detection device is located above the water collection tray.
7. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 6, wherein The air conditioning device includes a drain element located below a portion of the refrigerant piping. The drain element is situated on the side of the drip tray away from the air outlet of the housing. The drain element is used to guide condensate generated by the refrigerant piping to the drip tray. A seal fills at least a portion of the gap between the drain element and the refrigerant piping.
8. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The heat exchanger assembly includes a mounting bracket disposed within the housing, and both the refrigerant piping and the refrigerant detection element are disposed on the mounting bracket.
9. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 8, wherein The air conditioning equipment includes a bracket, and the refrigerant detection device is mounted on the mounting frame via the bracket. The bracket includes a connecting part and a insert, the insert being connected to the connecting part. The mounting frame has a socket, the insert being inserted into the socket, and the connecting part being connected to the mounting frame.
10. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 8, wherein The mounting bracket includes a first plate, a second plate, and a third plate. The second plate and the third plate are connected to the two ends of the first plate along a first direction. The refrigerant pipeline is disposed on the second plate and the third plate. The refrigerant detection element is disposed on the second plate. The first direction is perpendicular to the vertical direction.
11. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 10, wherein The air conditioning equipment includes a baffle, the refrigerant pipeline includes a refrigerant coil, the refrigerant coil includes a connecting section and multiple bent pipe sections, any two of the bent pipe sections are connected through a connecting section to form a continuous pipe, the connecting section and the bent pipe sections are welded together at the welding points, all the welding points of the connecting section and the bent pipe sections are located on the side of the second plate away from the third plate, the baffle is connected to the outer shell to define an empty space, and the bent parts of the bent pipe sections are located within the empty space.
12. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The air conditioning equipment includes a fan, and the housing has an air inlet space and an air outlet space. The fan is located in the air inlet space, and the heat exchanger assembly and the refrigerant detection element are both located in the air outlet space.
13. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The air conditioning unit includes a bracket having two mounting positions, and the refrigerant detection element is selectively disposed in one of the mounting positions.
14. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 13, wherein The bracket includes a mounting buckle located at one of the mounting positions. The refrigerant detection element includes a first detection element with a slot. At least a portion of the mounting buckle is inserted into the slot and connected by a fastener.
15. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 13, wherein The bracket includes a fixed platform, a support plate, and an anti-rotation plate. The support plate and the fixed platform are spaced apart in the vertical direction. The fixed platform forms a limiting groove, which is located at another of the mounting positions. The anti-rotation plate is folded from the support plate toward the side where the limiting groove is located. The refrigerant detection element includes a second detection element. One end of the second detection element is disposed in the limiting groove, and the other end of the second detection element abuts against the anti-rotation plate and is connected to the support plate by fasteners.