Filter screen assembly and outdoor unit comprising same

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of filter screen assembly and the outdoor unit containing it, it is related to air conditioning technical field, solve the technical problem that filter screen is inconvenient to clean.The filter screen assembly, including filter screen body, installation support, send out structure;Filter screen body is movably arranged in equipment by installation support;Send out structure is transmission connection with filter screen body, at least part of filter screen body can be sent out to equipment outside.The utility model is set to toothed plate on the edge of filter screen, and cooperate motor and gear drive structure, so that filter screen can move along predetermined track, it is convenient to stretch out filter screen part from air conditioner cover, and it is convenient to wash manually;By opening notch in cover, the telescopic design of filter screen is realized, and cleaning convenience is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and in particular to a filter assembly and an outdoor unit or other equipment with similar filtration and drainage requirements that includes the filter assembly. Background Technology

[0002] In some countries or regions, due to environmental protection or building drainage management requirements, outdoor condensate generated by air conditioning equipment during operation is not allowed to be directly discharged to the outdoor ground. To meet these regulations, existing technology typically adds a water pump to the outdoor unit of the air conditioner to pump the condensate to the indoor unit, where it is then discharged through a unified drainage system. However, this drainage method has certain technical drawbacks: after prolonged operation, the outdoor condensate easily carries dust, impurities, and other pollutants, leading to pump damage or drainage pipe blockage, which in turn affects the normal operation of the air conditioner and increases maintenance costs.

[0003] To address these issues, some air conditioning products install filters at the outdoor air intake grille to initially intercept impurities in the condensate. However, these filters are typically fixed structures, limiting their installation location, making cleaning inconvenient, and prone to clogging after prolonged use, thus affecting filtration efficiency. Furthermore, the lack of existing technologies with automatic or manual filter cleaning mechanisms further complicates maintenance. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this utility model is to provide a filter assembly and an outdoor unit containing the same, which allows the filter to extend conveniently out of the equipment for cleaning, significantly improving maintenance convenience and solving the technical problem of inconvenient filter cleaning in the prior art.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: This utility model provides a filter assembly, including a filter body, a mounting bracket, and a delivery structure; wherein: The filter body is movably mounted inside the device via the mounting bracket; The delivery structure is connected to the filter body in a driving manner, and can deliver at least a portion of the filter body to the outside of the device.

[0006] Movable setup and removability: Breaking through the limitations of traditional fixed installation of filter screens, the filter screen body can be easily removed from the equipment through "movable setup" and "removal structure". This solves the problem of having to disassemble or go deep into the equipment to clean the filter screen, greatly improving the convenience and efficiency of cleaning.

[0007] Modularity and versatility: This modular design structure allows the filter to be used as an independent module in different devices or different parts of the same device, giving it good versatility and replaceability.

[0008] Protecting equipment and simplifying maintenance: Sending the filter screen outside the equipment for cleaning avoids affecting other precision components inside the equipment, while also simplifying the maintenance process and reducing maintenance difficulty and cost.

[0009] As a further improvement of this utility model, the mounting bracket includes uprights arranged opposite each other, and guide rails are respectively provided on opposite sides of the uprights for the end of the filter screen body to slide into.

[0010] The above structural design has the following beneficial effects: Precise guidance and smooth movement: The guide rail structure provides a precise guiding path for the sliding of the filter body, ensuring smooth movement during extension and retraction, avoiding jamming or skew, and guaranteeing the reliability of the delivery structure and the service life of the filter.

[0011] Easy installation: The sliding insertion installation method simplifies the assembly process of the filter body and improves production efficiency.

[0012] Simple structure and low cost: The guide rail structure is relatively simple and easy to process and manufacture, which helps to control the overall cost.

[0013] As a further improvement of this utility model, the mounting bracket also includes a crossbar connected to both of the uprights; the crossbar has a slot for the filter screen body to be inserted into.

[0014] Enhanced stability and resistance to deformation: The crossbar and its grooves further restrict the displacement of the filter body in the direction perpendicular to the sliding direction, which can effectively prevent the filter from shaking or deforming, and improve the stability of the filter in the working state.

[0015] Assisted positioning and limiting: The slot can assist in positioning and limit the filter body at specific locations (such as the bottom) to ensure that the filter will not accidentally come out during equipment operation.

[0016] Distributing load: The crossbar can transfer part of the weight of the filter screen or the impact force it receives to the upright, which enhances the structural strength of the entire mounting bracket.

[0017] As a further improvement of this utility model, the delivery structure includes a motor, gears, toothed plates, and a clearance opening; wherein: The motor is fixed to one of the uprights; The gear is mounted on the output shaft of the motor; The clearance opening is provided on the upright corresponding to the gear position, so as to expose the toothed piece located at the clearance opening position; The toothed plates are installed on one side of the filter body.

[0018] Automated drive and labor saving: The motor serves as the power source, enabling automated operation of the filter screen delivery. Users can extend and retract the filter screen simply by using control commands (such as buttons), eliminating the need for manual and strenuous operation, making it labor-saving and convenient.

[0019] Reliable transmission and precise control: The meshing transmission of gears and gears has high precision and reliability, and can achieve stable speed control and position control (in conjunction with limit switches, etc.) to ensure that the filter screen moves according to the predetermined stroke.

[0020] Compact structure: By fixing the motor to the upright and using the clearance opening to expose the gear, the drive mechanism can be integrated into a small space, which is suitable for the limited space layout inside the equipment.

[0021] As a further improvement of this utility model, the length of the toothed plate is equal to the height of the filter screen body.

[0022] Uniform driving torque and full-range drive: The toothed plates cover the entire height of the filter body, ensuring that the motor can transmit power through the meshing of the teeth and gears regardless of the filter's height during operation. This avoids insufficient driving force or jamming caused by too few engagement points, guaranteeing smooth and reliable drive throughout the entire range. This structure is suitable for situations where the motor is mounted on the upper side or top of the column, allowing the filter body to extend further.

[0023] Balanced force distribution: The driving force is more evenly distributed along the height of the entire filter screen, reducing local stress concentration and helping to extend the service life of the gears and teeth.

[0024] As a further improvement of this utility model, the length of the toothed plate is not less than half the height of the filter screen body, and the starting end of the toothed plate is located in the lower or middle part of the filter screen body.

[0025] Optimize driving force and space utilization: While ensuring sufficient driving force (not less than half the height), appropriately shortening the length of the toothed plates can reduce material consumption and weight. Placing the beginning of the toothed plates in the lower or middle part is mainly because when the filter screen extends, it usually starts from the top. The lower / middle part of the toothed plates can ensure that the filter screen extends with minimal material usage, avoiding waste. This approach is suitable when the filter screen body extends halfway or nearly halfway.

[0026] Adaptable to specific scenarios: For example, if the filter only needs to extend partially (such as only the upper half for cleaning), this design can meet the requirements while simplifying the structure. Or, in certain installation positions, the lower and middle teeth can establish effective engagement with the gears earlier.

[0027] As a further improvement of this utility model, the delivery structure includes a manual push rod and a guide groove; wherein: The guide groove is formed on the equipment; One end of the manual push rod passes through the guide groove and abuts against the filter screen body, while the other end protrudes outside the device.

[0028] Cost reduction and structural simplification: By eliminating complex electric drive components such as motors and gears, manufacturing costs and assembly complexity are significantly reduced, while also reducing potential electrical failure points.

[0029] Purely mechanical operation and high reliability: The manual operation structure is simple and is not affected by the power supply (it can still be operated when the equipment is powered off), and the mechanical transmission is highly reliable and easy to maintain.

[0030] As a further improvement of this utility model, the guide groove is opened at the bottom of the device, and the crossbar has a rod opening corresponding to the position of the guide groove; the manual push rod passes through the guide groove and extends into the rod opening to abut against the filter screen body.

[0031] Precise guidance and optimized operating force: The guide groove guides the lateral movement of the push rod, preventing it from tilting and causing poor pushing or damage. The through-hole on the crossbar provides the push rod with a more direct point of action and support, allowing manual pushing force to be more effectively transmitted to the filter body, reducing energy loss and operating force.

[0032] Compact structure and efficient space utilization: It makes full use of the crossbar structure of the mounting bracket, eliminating the need for additional complex push rod connection mechanisms. It should be noted that the structure of the manual push rod and guide channel can also be modified. For example, the direction and position of the guide channel, and the position of the manual push rod pushing the filter body can all be changed, as long as the filter body can be pushed out using the manual push rod.

[0033] This utility model provides an outdoor unit, including an outer cover, a slot, and the filter assembly; wherein: The filter assembly is installed inside the outer casing; The slot is positioned directly opposite the filter assembly to allow the filter body to extend and retract.

[0034] By specifically applying the filter assembly to the outdoor unit, the pain points of easy clogging and difficult cleaning of the filter in the outdoor unit's drainage system are solved. The slots on the outer cover facilitate the extension and retraction of the filter assembly.

[0035] Improve the overall performance of the outdoor unit: By effectively intercepting impurities in the condensate, the water pump and other drainage components of the outdoor unit are protected, reducing problems such as poor drainage and water pump damage caused by blockage, improving the operational stability and reliability of the outdoor unit, and extending its service life.

[0036] Improved ease of maintenance: Users can clean the protruding filter directly through the slot without opening the outdoor unit casing or disassembling complex parts, greatly improving the user experience.

[0037] As a further improvement of this utility model, it also includes a display panel and a controller box; wherein: The controller box is housed inside the outer casing and is electrically connected to the delivery structure; The display panel is disposed outside the outer casing and is electrically connected to the controller box.

[0038] Intelligent control and user interaction: The display panel provides an intuitive human-machine interface, allowing users to easily control the extension and retraction of the filter via buttons (such as the cleaning button). The controller box, as the control core, is responsible for receiving commands, driving the motor (if applicable), and providing status feedback.

[0039] Status monitoring and proactive reminders: By combining cumulative usage time, the system reminds users to clean the filter, transforming passive maintenance into proactive maintenance. This helps users develop good maintenance habits, promptly detect and address filter blockage issues, prevent malfunctions, and further improve equipment reliability and user satisfaction.

[0040] High system integration: The control and display functions are integrated into the outdoor unit, forming a complete intelligent maintenance system, which enhances the product's technological appeal and added value. Attached Figure Description

[0041] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the outdoor unit of this utility model; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the outdoor unit of this utility model after the outer cover is removed; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of one embodiment of the filter assembly of this utility model; Figure 4 yes Figure 2Enlarged view of part A in the middle; Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of part B in the middle; Figure 6 This is a structural schematic diagram of the outdoor unit of this utility model.

[0043] In the picture: 1. Outer cover; 2. Filter body; 3. Gears; 4. Electric motor; 5. Install the bracket; 6. Connecting cable; 7. Display panel; 8. Controller box; 9. Chassis; 10. Groove; 11. Toothed plate; 12. Clearance point; 13. Guide rail. Detailed Implementation

[0044] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of this utility model will be described in detail below. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this utility model, and not all of them. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other implementation methods obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0045] like Figures 1-6 As shown, this utility model provides a filter assembly, including a filter body 2, a mounting bracket 5, and a delivery structure; wherein: The filter body 2 is movably mounted inside the device via the mounting bracket 5; The delivery structure is connected to the filter body 2 in a driving manner, and can deliver at least a portion of the filter body 2 to the outside of the device.

[0046] Activity setting and delivery capability: Breaking through the limitations of traditional fixed installation of filter screens, the filter screen body 2 can be easily removed from the inside of the equipment through "activity setting" and "delivery structure". This solves the problem that filter screens must be disassembled or operated inside the equipment when cleaning, greatly improving the convenience and efficiency of cleaning.

[0047] Modularity and versatility: This modular design structure allows the filter to be used as an independent module in different devices or different parts of the same device, giving it good versatility and replaceability.

[0048] Protecting equipment and simplifying maintenance: Sending the filter screen outside the equipment for cleaning avoids affecting other precision components inside the equipment, while also simplifying the maintenance process and reducing maintenance difficulty and cost.

[0049] Furthermore, the mounting bracket 5 includes opposing uprights, and each of the opposing sides of the uprights is provided with a guide rail 13 for the end of the filter body 2 to slide into.

[0050] The above structural design has the following beneficial effects: Precise guidance and smooth movement: The guide rail 13 structure provides a precise guiding path for the sliding of the filter body 2, ensuring smooth movement during extension and retraction, avoiding jamming or skew, and guaranteeing the reliability of the delivery structure and the service life of the filter.

[0051] Easy installation: The sliding insertion installation method simplifies the assembly process of the filter body 2 and improves production efficiency.

[0052] Simple structure and low cost: The guide rail 13 has a relatively simple structure, is easy to process and manufacture, and helps to control the overall cost.

[0053] Furthermore, the mounting bracket 5 also includes a crossbar connected to both of the uprights; the crossbar has a slot for the filter screen body 2 to be inserted into.

[0054] Enhanced stability and resistance to deformation: The crossbar and its groove further restrict the displacement of the filter body 2 in the direction perpendicular to the sliding direction, which can effectively prevent the filter from shaking or deforming and improve the stability of the filter in the working state.

[0055] Assisted positioning and limiting: The slot can assist in positioning and limit the filter body 2 at specific positions (such as the bottom) to a certain extent, ensuring that the filter will not accidentally fall out during the operation of the equipment.

[0056] Distributing load: The crossbar can transfer part of the weight of the filter screen or the impact force it receives to the upright, which enhances the structural strength of the entire mounting bracket 5.

[0057] Example 1: Electrically Driven Filter Assembly As one of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, the delivery structure includes a motor 4, a gear 3, a toothed plate 11, and a clearance opening 12; wherein: The motor 4 is fixed to one of the uprights; The gear 3 is mounted on the output shaft of the motor 4; The clearance opening 12 is opened on the upright corresponding to the gear 3, so as to expose the toothed piece 11 located at the clearance opening 12; For ease of cleaning, the toothed plate 11 is installed on one side of the filter body 2.

[0058] Automated drive and labor saving: Motor 4 serves as the power source, enabling automated operation of the filter screen delivery. Users can extend and retract the filter screen simply by using control commands (such as buttons), eliminating the need for manual and strenuous operation, making it labor-saving and convenient.

[0059] Reliable transmission and precise control: The meshing transmission between gear 3 and gear 11 has high precision and reliability, and can achieve stable speed control and position control (in conjunction with limit switches, etc.) to ensure that the filter screen moves according to the predetermined stroke.

[0060] Compact structure: By fixing the motor 4 to the upright and exposing the toothed plate 11 through the clearance opening 12, the drive mechanism can be integrated into a small space, which is suitable for the limited space layout inside the equipment.

[0061] Toothed plate 11 length selection: In this embodiment, as a specific implementation, the length of the toothed plate 11 can be equal to the height of the filter body 2. This design provides a uniform driving force throughout the entire process, ensuring that the filter operates smoothly at any extended position.

[0062] Uniform driving torque and full-range drive: The toothed plates 11 cover the entire height of the filter body 2, ensuring that the motor 4 can transmit power through the meshing of the toothed plates 11 and gears 3 regardless of the height of the filter during operation. This avoids insufficient driving force or jamming caused by too few meshing points, guaranteeing smooth and reliable full-range drive. This structure is suitable for situations where the motor 4 is installed on the upper side or top of the column, allowing the filter body 2 to extend further.

[0063] Balanced force distribution: The driving force is more evenly distributed along the height of the entire filter screen, reducing local stress concentration and helping to extend the service life of the toothed plate 11 and gear 3.

[0064] In another specific implementation, the length of the toothed plate 11 is not less than half the height of the filter body 2, and the starting end of the toothed plate 11 is located in the lower or middle part of the filter body 2. This design optimizes material usage and spatial layout while ensuring basic driving force, and is particularly suitable for scenarios where the filter only needs to extend partially or in a specific installation posture. For example, if the filter extends upward from the top, the toothed plate 11 in the lower middle part can engage with the gear 3 in the initial stage of extension, or provide a more suitable transmission ratio when space is limited.

[0065] Working process: When the filter needs cleaning, the controller receives a command from the display panel 7 and starts the motor 4. The output shaft of the motor 4 drives the gear 3 to rotate. The gear 3, through meshing with the gear plate 11, converts the rotational motion into linear motion of the filter body 2 along the guide rail 13, causing it to gradually extend out of the slot 10 on the outside of the device. After cleaning, the motor 4 rotates in reverse, driving the filter to retract into the mounting bracket 5, restoring the filtration working state.

[0066] Optimizing driving force and space utilization: While ensuring sufficient driving force (not less than half the height), appropriately shortening the length of the toothed plate 11 can reduce material consumption and weight. Placing the beginning of the toothed plate 11 in the lower or middle part is mainly because when the filter screen extends, it usually starts to extend from the top. The toothed plate 11 in the lower / middle part can ensure that the filter screen extends with minimal material usage, avoiding waste. This situation is suitable when the filter screen body 2 extends halfway or nearly halfway.

[0067] Adaptable to specific scenarios: For example, if the filter only needs to extend partially (such as only the upper half for cleaning), this design can meet the requirements while simplifying the structure. Or, in certain installation positions, the lower middle toothed plate 11 can establish effective engagement with the gear 3 earlier.

[0068] Example 2: Manually Driven Filter Assembly In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, to reduce costs and simplify the structure, and to adapt to scenarios with low automation requirements, the delivery structure includes a manual push rod and a guide groove; wherein: The guide groove is formed on the equipment; One end of the manual push rod passes through the guide groove and abuts against the filter screen body 2, while the other end protrudes outside the device.

[0069] Cost reduction and structural simplification: Complex electric drive components such as motor 4 and gear 3 have been eliminated, significantly reducing manufacturing costs and assembly complexity, while also reducing potential electrical failure points.

[0070] Purely mechanical operation and high reliability: The manual operation structure is simple and is not affected by the power supply (it can still be operated when the equipment is powered off), and the mechanical transmission is highly reliable and easy to maintain.

[0071] Preferably, the guide groove is located at the bottom of the device, and a rod opening is provided on the crossbar corresponding to the position of the guide groove; the manual push rod passes through the guide groove and extends into the rod opening to abut against the filter screen body 2.

[0072] Working process: When the user needs to clean the filter screen, they can directly push the exposed manual push rod end on the outside of the device by hand. The push rod slides along the guide groove and transmits the pushing force to the filter screen body 2 through the rod opening, overcoming the friction between it and the guide rail 13, so that the filter screen slides out of the outer groove 10 of the device along the guide rail 13. After cleaning, the push rod is pulled in the opposite direction (or the filter screen's own weight and a possible return spring, if provided) to push / pull the filter screen back to its original position.

[0073] Precise guidance and optimized operating force: The guide groove guides the lateral movement of the push rod, preventing it from becoming misaligned and causing poor pushing or damage. The through-hole on the crossbar provides the push rod with a more direct point of action and support, allowing manual pushing force to be more effectively transmitted to the filter body 2, reducing energy loss and operating force.

[0074] Compact structure and efficient space utilization: It makes full use of the crossbar structure of the mounting bracket 5, eliminating the need for additional complex push rod connection mechanisms. It should be noted that the structure of the manual push rod and guide groove can also be changed. For example, the direction and position of the guide groove, as well as the position of the manual push rod pushing the filter body 2, can all be changed, as long as the filter body 2 can be pushed out using the manual push rod.

[0075] Example 3: Hybrid Driven Filter Assembly To further enhance the product's flexibility and applicability, a hybrid-drive filter assembly can be designed. This assembly can simultaneously support both electric and manual drive modes. For example, it can be electrically driven during normal use, while in case of power failure or motor 4 malfunction, it can be manually operated via a push rod for emergency operation. In this case, the delivery structure may include motor 4, gear 3, toothed plate 11 (electric part), and manual push rod and guide groove (manual part). The design of gear 3 and toothed plate 11 in the electric part is as described in Embodiment 1, and the design of the manual push rod can refer to Embodiment 2. A clutch or interlocking mechanism can be considered to avoid interference between electric and manual drives. This design greatly improves the product's fault tolerance and maintainability under extreme conditions.

[0076] Example 4: Special Installation Posture and Multi-Position Filtering The filter assembly of this invention is not limited to horizontal or vertical sliding. For example, in some devices, the filter may need to slide out at an angle. In this case, the guide rail 13 of the mounting bracket 5 can be designed as a corresponding inclined guide rail 13, and the driving direction of the delivery structure can also be adjusted accordingly. In addition, multiple filter assemblies of this invention can be set in different locations (such as near the air inlet and drain outlet) as needed within a single device to form multi-stage filtration or multi-point maintenance, further improving the filtration effect and system reliability. For example, in an outdoor air conditioning unit, a filter assembly for filtering air impurities can be set on the air inlet side of the condenser (at this time, the filter body 2 can be a mesh to intercept dust and hair), and a filter assembly for filtering water impurities can be set near the drain outlet of the chassis 9 (at this time, the filter body 2 can be a dense screen to intercept sediment particles), both of which can adopt the delivery structure of this invention.

[0077] Example 5: Air conditioner outdoor unit with electrically driven filter assembly The present invention provides an outdoor unit, including an outer cover 1, a slot 10 and the filter assembly; specifically, the outdoor unit also includes a chassis 9 located at the bottom of the outer cover 1, and the filter assembly is fixed inside the chassis 9.

[0078] The filter assembly is installed inside the outer cover 1; The slot 10 is positioned directly opposite the filter assembly to allow the filter body 2 to extend and retract.

[0079] The filter assembly includes a filter body 2 (using a dense stainless steel mesh for intercepting impurities), a mounting bracket 5, and an electric delivery structure. The mounting bracket 5 consists of two vertical poles and a horizontal bar. The horizontal bar is fixed to the base 9, and the bottom ends of the poles are connected to the horizontal bar. Each pole has a vertical guide rail 13 on its opposite inner side (facing the filter body 2). The left and right ends (or top and bottom ends, depending on the sliding direction) of the filter body 2 can be slidably inserted into the guide rail 13 of the corresponding pole to ensure stability during operation. A slot is provided at the top of the horizontal bar, into which the bottom edge of the filter body 2 can be engaged to prevent the filter from shaking or coming loose. After installation, the filter body 2 is located below the outdoor air inlet grille and is used to intercept impurity particles in the condensate.

[0080] The electric delivery structure includes a miniature DC motor 4, a gear 3, a toothed plate 11, and a clearance opening 12. The motor 4 is fixed to the outer center of one of the uprights via a motor 4 mount. The output shaft of the motor 4 is fixedly connected to the gear 3. The upright has a vertical clearance opening 12 at the position corresponding to the gear 3, allowing the toothed plate 11, fixed to one edge, to partially protrude from the clearance opening 12 and engage with the gear 3 after the filter body 2 is installed. The length of the toothed plate 11 can be designed to be equal to the height of the filter body 2 (e.g., ...). Figure 2(as shown), to ensure smooth driving throughout the entire process.

[0081] The outdoor unit cover 1 has a rectangular slot 10 at the position corresponding to the filter assembly. The size of the slot 10 is slightly larger than the size of the part of the filter body 2 that is to be extended, so as to ensure that the filter can be extended smoothly without affecting the sealing of the cover 1.

[0082] The outdoor unit also includes a controller box 8 and a display panel 7.

[0083] The controller box 8 houses a control motherboard (including a microcontroller MCU, motor 4 drive circuit, timer, etc.), which is fixed to the inner wall of the outer casing 1 and electrically connected to the motor 4 via a connecting cable 6. The display panel 7 is embedded in the front or side outer wall of the outer casing 1 and connected to the controller box 8 via a wiring harness. The display panel 7 has a "cleaning" button and a "filter cleaning reminder" indicator light.

[0084] This part of the structure is suitable for electrically driven filter assemblies.

[0085] Intelligent control and user interaction: The display panel 7 provides an intuitive human-machine interface, allowing users to easily control the extension and retraction of the filter screen using buttons on the panel (such as the cleaning button). The controller box 8, as the control core, is responsible for receiving commands, driving the motor 4 (if applicable), and providing status feedback.

[0086] Status monitoring and proactive reminders: By combining cumulative usage time, the system reminds users to clean the filter, transforming passive maintenance into proactive maintenance. This helps users develop good maintenance habits, promptly detect and address filter blockage issues, prevent malfunctions, and further improve equipment reliability and user satisfaction.

[0087] High system integration: The control and display functions are integrated into the outdoor unit, forming a complete intelligent maintenance system, which enhances the product's technological appeal and added value.

[0088] Intelligent control and reminder functions: The display panel 7 can be equipped with a "Filter Cleaning" button. A short press of this button controls the controller to rotate the motor 4 in the forward direction, extending the filter; a long press (e.g., for 3 seconds) controls the controller to rotate the motor 4 in the reverse direction, resetting the filter. The display panel 7 can also be equipped with a "Filter Cleaning Reminder" indicator light. The controller has a built-in timer that accumulates the equipment's running time or usage days since the user's first power-on or the last reset and cleaning. When the accumulated time reaches a preset threshold (e.g., 3 months or 200 hours of accumulated operation), the controller illuminates the indicator light to remind the user to clean the filter. When the user presses the cleaning button and completes one cleaning cycle (or after manual reset and confirmation in some way), the timer is reset to zero and starts accumulating again.

[0089] Work process: Normal filtration: The filter body 2 is located inside the mounting bracket 5 and filters the condensate.

[0090] Initiating cleaning: When the user presses the "Cleaning" button on the display panel 7, the control motherboard receives the signal and the motor 4 rotates in the reverse direction. The motor 4 drives the gear 3 to rotate, and the gear 3, through meshing with the toothed plate 11, drives the filter body 2 to slide along the guide rail 13 toward the slot 10 of the outer cover 1 until the lower half (or all of it, depending on the size of the slot 10 and the extension distance) of the filter body 2 extends out of the slot 10 of the outer cover 1.

[0091] Manual cleaning: Users can directly rinse the extended filter body 2 at this time.

[0092] Reset: After cleaning, the user presses and holds the "cleaning" button for about 3 seconds to control the main board to rotate the motor 4 in the forward direction. The filter body 2 slides in the reverse direction along the guide rail 13 and retracts into the mounting bracket 5. The toothed plate 11 disengages from the gear 3, completing the reset.

[0093] Cleaning Reminder: The timer inside the control board starts accumulating running time from the first power-on of the outdoor unit or the last filter reset. When the accumulated running time reaches 3 months (or another preset duration / running hours), the control board illuminates the "Filter Cleaning Reminder" indicator light. Once the indicator light is on, the user can perform the cleaning operation. After each cleaning reset (which can be determined by detecting changes in motor 4 running time or current, or by the user manually pressing the reset button), the timer is reset to zero and restarted.

[0094] By specifically applying the filter assembly to the outdoor unit, the pain points of easy clogging and difficult cleaning of the filter in the outdoor unit's drainage system are solved. The slot 10 on the outer cover 1 facilitates the extension and retraction function of the filter assembly.

[0095] Improve the overall performance of the outdoor unit: By effectively intercepting impurities in the condensate, the water pump and other drainage components of the outdoor unit are protected, reducing problems such as poor drainage and water pump damage caused by blockage, improving the operational stability and reliability of the outdoor unit, and extending its service life.

[0096] Improved ease of maintenance: Users can directly clean the protruding filter screen through the slot 10 without opening the outdoor unit casing or disassembling complex parts, greatly improving the user experience.

[0097] This utility model, through the above-described structural design, effectively solves the technical problems in the prior art of difficult filter cleaning, easy clogging of the drainage system, and damage to the water pump. Specifically: Cleaning fixed filters is cumbersome, but the movable design and delivery structure of this invention allow them to be easily extended outside the device for cleaning. For the electric type, the motor's 4 gears, 3 toothed plates, and 11-speed drive achieve automation, saving labor and increasing efficiency; for the manual type, although there is no automation, the cost is low.

[0098] The guide rail 13 and slot design of the mounting bracket 5 ensure the stability and smooth movement of the filter screen during operation.

[0099] The slot 10 design of the outdoor unit, combined with the retractable filter screen, enables maintenance that requires little or no disassembly and cleaning.

[0100] The intelligent reminder function encourages users to perform timely maintenance and prevent problems before they occur.

[0101] Compared with the prior art, the outdoor unit of this utility model has the following significant advantages: Significantly improves cleaning convenience: Whether driven electrically or manually, the filter body 2 can be at least partially pushed out of the device. Users can complete the cleaning without going deep into the device or completely disassembling the parts. The operation is intuitive and simple, saving time and effort.

[0102] Improve equipment reliability and lifespan: Effectively intercept impurities, prevent drainage system blockage and water pump damage, ensure smooth drainage, reduce failure rate, and extend the service life of outdoor units and other equipment.

[0103] Reduced maintenance costs and complexity: The simplified cleaning process lowers the skill requirements for users, indirectly reducing maintenance costs. The manual-drive version further significantly reduces manufacturing costs.

[0104] Enhanced user experience: Convenient maintenance and intelligent reminder functions improve the product's ease of use and user satisfaction, reflecting the product's humanistic care and design wisdom.

[0105] Flexible and adaptable structure: Multiple implementation methods (electric, manual, hybrid) and special postures and positions enable it to adapt to the needs of different equipment, different cost budgets and different application scenarios.

[0106] Automation and intelligence (for electric type): The electric drive, together with the display panel 7 and the controller, realizes automatic control of filter extension and retraction and intelligent reminder of usage time, which enhances the product's technological feel and intelligence level.

[0107] First, it should be noted that "inward" refers to the direction towards the center of the storage space, while "outward" refers to the direction away from the center of the storage space.

[0108] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "transverse," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the appendix. Figure 1 The orientations or positional relationships shown are for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and are 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, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.

[0109] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this utility model, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0110] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0111] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0112] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. 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.

[0113] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this utility model, but the protection scope of this utility model is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model. Therefore, the protection scope of this utility model should be determined by the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A filter assembly, characterized in that, Includes the filter body, mounting bracket, and delivery structure; wherein: The filter body is movably mounted inside the device via the mounting bracket; The delivery structure is connected to the filter body in a driving manner, and can deliver at least a portion of the filter body to the outside of the device.

2. The filter assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mounting bracket includes uprights arranged opposite each other, and guide rails are respectively provided on opposite sides of the uprights for the end of the filter screen body to slide into.

3. The filter assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The mounting bracket also includes a crossbar connected to both of the uprights; the crossbar has a slot for the filter screen body to be inserted into.

4. The filter assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The delivery structure includes a motor, gears, toothed plates, and a clearance opening; wherein: The motor is fixed to one of the uprights; The gear is mounted on the output shaft of the motor; The clearance opening is provided on the upright corresponding to the gear position, so as to expose the toothed piece located at the clearance opening position; The toothed plates are installed on one side of the filter body.

5. The filter assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The length of the toothed plate is equal to the height of the filter body.

6. The filter assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The length of the toothed plate is not less than half the height of the filter body, and the starting end of the toothed plate is located in the lower or middle part of the filter body.

7. The filter assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The delivery structure includes a manual push rod and a guide groove; wherein: The guide groove is formed on the equipment; One end of the manual push rod passes through the guide groove and abuts against the filter screen body, while the other end protrudes outside the device.

8. The filter assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The guide groove is located at the bottom of the device, and the crossbar has a rod opening corresponding to the guide groove position; the manual push rod passes through the guide groove and extends into the rod opening to abut against the filter screen body.

9. An outdoor unit, characterized in that, Includes an outer cover, a slot, and a filter assembly as described in any one of claims 1-8; wherein: The filter assembly is installed inside the outer casing; The slot is positioned directly opposite the filter assembly to allow the filter body to extend and retract.

10. The outdoor unit according to claim 9, characterized in that, It also includes a display panel and a controller box; among which: The controller box is housed inside the outer casing and is electrically connected to the delivery structure; The display panel is disposed outside the outer casing and is electrically connected to the controller box.

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