Air conditioning for a vehicle

Abstract

Air conditioning system for a vehicle, comprising: a blower unit (120) having a blower motor (122) and a blower wheel (121) which is rotated by the blower motor (122) to blow air into the interior of an air conditioning housing; and a blower control unit (200) which controls the voltage applied to the blower motor (122) to control the rotational state of the blower, wherein the air conditioning system comprises: a blower cover (350) for covering the blower motor (122), a cooling hole (249) that captures part of the blown air to ventilate the blower motor (122), wherein the blower control unit (200) is installed in the blower cover (350) such that the blower motor (122) and the blower control unit (200) are integrally formed with the blower unit (120) wherein the blower control unit (200) is arranged on the side opposite the cooling hole (249) based on the shaft of the blower motor.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioning system for a vehicle and a method for manufacturing a blower unit for the same, and in particular to an air conditioning system for a vehicle which includes a blower unit for blowing interior air or outside air into the interior of the air conditioning system and a method for manufacturing a blower unit of the same. State of the art

[0002] A vehicle air conditioning system is a device for cooling or heating the vehicle's interior by either introducing outside air into the vehicle or recirculating the vehicle's interior air. Such a vehicle air conditioning system includes: a blower unit for drawing interior or outside air into the air conditioning unit; an evaporator located within the unit to cool the interior; and a heating element to heat the interior of the unit, optionally directing the air cooled by the evaporator or heated by the heating element to components within the vehicle.

[0003] Fig. Figure 1 is a sectional view showing the interior of a conventional vehicle air conditioning system. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the conventional air conditioning system 1 for a vehicle comprises a blower unit 10 and an air conditioning unit 40. The blower unit 10 includes a blower housing 20, an interior air and an exterior air converter flap 15, and a blower wheel 16. The blower housing 20 has inlets 11 and 12 for interior and exterior air, respectively, located on its upper side. The exterior air converter flap 15 is mounted to selectively open and close the inlets 11 and 12. The blower wheel 16 directs the interior and exterior air, which is introduced through the inlets 11 and 12, to an air conditioning unit 49 by applying force.

[0004] The inlet 11 for interior air and the inlet 12 for exterior air are each formed on both sides of the upper side of the blower unit 10, and the blower unit 10 includes a receiving unit which has the outer air converter flap 15 for the interior air and the exterior air, which selectively opens and closes the inlets 11 and 12 for the interior air and the exterior air, while the inlet 11 for the interior air and the inlet 12 for the exterior air are switched.

[0005] The blower unit 10 comprises: a blower motor 17, which is mounted in the blower housing 20 to blow air introduced by the inlet 11 for interior air or the inlet 12 for outside air axially in a radial direction, and a blower wheel 16, which is connected to the shaft of the blower motor 17. Furthermore, the blower unit 10 also includes an air filter 18, which is mounted on the upstream side of the blower motor 17 in the direction of airflow to clean the introduced air.

[0006] The air conditioning unit 40 comprises an air conditioning housing 49, an evaporator 41, and a heating core 42. The air conditioning housing 49 has an inlet opening 43 for airflow to induce the air blown by the blower unit 10, and several outlet openings 44 for airflow to be opened and closed by the mode flaps 46. The evaporator 41 and the heating core 42 are mounted sequentially at a predetermined distance from each other. A temperature control flap 45 is mounted between the evaporator 41 and the heating core 42 to control the temperature by adjusting the mixture of cold air passing through the evaporator 41 and warm air passing through the heating core 42.

[0007] Fig. Figure 2 is a front view of a conventional air blower. (Referring to...) Fig. 2 The blower unit 10 includes a blower wheel 16, which is connected to a shaft of a blower motor 17 and rotates to supply air to the interior of an air conditioner, and a blower control unit 50, which is arranged in a blower housing 20 to control the state of the blower. The blower control unit 50 controls a voltage applied to the blower motor 17, either by operation of an air conditioner control by an operator or automatically, to control the state of the blower.

[0008] This means that the blower motor 17 converts electrical energy in the form of direct current into kinetic rotational energy to generate an airflow by rotating the blower wheel. Furthermore, the blower control unit 50 includes a register, a field-effect transistor (FET) that synthetically evaluates interior and external cooling and heating loads through various sensors to control the optimal rotational speed of the blower motor, and a pulse-width modulator (PWM) to control the overall average voltage using the pulse width as a control signal.

[0009] However, conventional air conditioners present challenges in arranging components due to the limited space within the blower unit, as an ionizer, motor, control unit, and other components must be fitted into this confined space. Furthermore, the conventional blower control unit exhibits several disadvantages: voltage drop occurs at the wiring connection and connector, and the number of holes required for mounting various components to the blower unit, as well as the number of holes for connecting cable connectors, is increased because the blower control unit is mounted separately from the blower unit on one side of the housing. REPRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Accordingly, the present invention was made taking into consideration the above-mentioned problems that arise in the prior art, and it is an objective of the present invention to provide an air conditioning system for a vehicle which includes a blower motor and a blower control unit which are integrated together, so that connections between the blower motor and the blower control unit can be easily connected and a printed circuit board is tightly fixed to a high-strength flange, and a method for manufacturing this blower unit.

[0011] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an air conditioning system for a vehicle that optimizes the arrangement position of the blower control unit and the position of a heating medium.

[0012] To achieve the above objective, an air conditioning system for a vehicle is provided according to the present invention, comprising: a blower unit having a blower motor and a blower wheel which is rotated by the blower motor to blow air into the interior of an air conditioning housing; a blower control unit which controls a voltage applied to the blower motor to control the rotational state of the blower; a flange on which the blower motor is inserted and fixed and to which a circuit board of the blower control unit is connected on one side of the insertion section of the blower motor; a first connection which is arranged on the blower motor; and a second connection which is arranged on the circuit board and is connected to the first connection, wherein the blower control unit and the blower motor are integrally formed on the blower unit.

[0013] In another aspect of the present invention, an air conditioning system for a vehicle is provided, comprising: a blower unit having a blower motor and a blower wheel rotated by the blower motor to blow air into the interior of an air conditioning housing; a blower control unit which controls the voltage applied to the blower motor to control the rotational state of the blower; a circuit board arranged on the rear side of the blower wheel in the longitudinal direction of the shaft of the blower motor, and on which several components are mounted;and a control unit cover for covering the printed circuit board, wherein the blower control unit and the blower motor are integrally formed on the blower unit, wherein the relatively larger components of the components mounted on the printed circuit board are arranged closely in one area and the control unit cover has a projection that extends outwards to accommodate the components mounted in the dense section.

[0014] In another aspect of the present invention, an air conditioning system for a vehicle is provided, comprising: a blower unit having a blower motor and a blower wheel rotated by the blower motor to blow air into the interior of an air conditioning housing; a blower control unit controlling a voltage applied to the blower motor to control the rotational state of the blower; a blower cover for covering the blower motor, wherein the blower control unit is built into the blower cover, such that the blower motor and the blower control unit are integrally formed on the blower unit.

[0015] In the air conditioning system for the vehicle according to the present invention, it is easy to assemble the blower unit, the problem of voltage drop can be solved by a directly connected design, and it is easy to maintain and repair, since the blower motor and the circuit board are mounted separately and the number of assembly steps can be reduced.

[0016] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the air conditioning system for the vehicle can minimize the volume that protrudes from the confined space to the outside in order to ensure a comfortable interior space for the vehicle, and can improve heat radiation through an effective arrangement of the circuit board components, since the blower control unit and the blower unit are integrally formed.

[0017] Furthermore, the air conditioning system for the vehicle according to the present invention can reduce manufacturing costs, effectively reduce the number of mounting holes, minimize the loss of space in the passenger side footwell, make it easy to insert cables into the connector, and ensure a sufficient volume of air for cooling a heat sink in order to prevent a decrease in the stability of the blower control unit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0018] The above and other objectives, features and advantages of the present invention will become clear from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein: Fig. 1 is a sectional view showing the interior of a conventional air conditioning system for a vehicle; Fig. 2 is a front view of a conventional air blower; Fig. 3 a rear perspective side view of a blower unit according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 4 a perspective exploded view of a flange and a blower motor according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 5 a perspective exploded view of the flange and a blower cover according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 6 a sectional view along line AA of Fig. 5 was made; Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing an assembly sequence of the blower unit according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 8 is a top view of an air conditioning system for a vehicle, showing the interior of an air blower of a second preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 9 a rear perspective side view of a blower unit according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 10 a perspective exploded view of the blower unit according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 11 a perspective view of the blower unit according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing a printed circuit board and a control unit cover according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 13 is a view showing a position in which the air blower is installed in the vehicle according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 14 a view to explain the optimal position of a protruding part according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 15 is a perspective rear side view showing part of an air blower according to a third preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 16 a perspective exploded view of a blower unit according to the third preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 17 a perspective view of the blower unit according to the third preferred embodiment of the present invention; and Fig. 18 and Fig. 19 views are shown to explain the optimal position of the blower control unit according to the third preferred embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED FORM OF EXECUTION

[0019] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0020] Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective rear side view of a blower unit according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention. Fig. Figure 4 is a perspective exploded view of a flange and a blower motor according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention. Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective exploded view of the flange and a blower cover according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention and Fig. 6 is a sectional view taken along line AA from Fig. 5 was made.

[0021] With reference to Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. 6. The air conditioning system for the vehicle according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises an air conditioning unit and a blower unit. Detailed descriptions of the air conditioning unit and the blower unit are omitted, as the air conditioning unit and the blower unit are sufficiently described in the prior art.

[0022] The air blower unit includes a blower unit 120. The blower unit 120 includes a blower motor 122 and a blower wheel 121.

[0023] The blower motor 122 is a DC brush motor that converts electrical energy into mechanical rotational kinetic energy. This means that the blower motor 122 converts DC electrical energy into rotational kinetic energy to generate an airflow through the rotation of the blower wheel.

[0024] The blower wheel 121 is connected to the shaft of the blower motor 122 and rotates through the blower motor 122 to blow air into the interior of an air conditioning housing, so that axial air introduced from an inlet for interior air or an inlet for outside air formed on an upper part of a blower housing is blown in a radial direction, so that the air is supplied to the interior of the air conditioning housing of the air conditioning unit.

[0025] Additionally, the air blower unit 150 includes a blower control unit 200. The blower control unit 200 controls a voltage applied to the blower motor 122 to control the blower's rotational state. The blower control unit 200 controls the voltage applied to the blower motor 122 either through user input from an air conditioning control unit or by automatic setting to control the blower's state.

[0026] The blower control unit 200 includes a register, a field-effect transistor (FET) that artificially evaluates an interior and external cooling and heating load through various sensors to control the optimal rotation speed of the blower motor, and a pulse-width modulator (PWM) to control the overall average voltage using a pulse width of a control signal.

[0027] The blower motor 122 and the blower control unit 200 are integrally formed on the blower unit 120. The blower control unit 200 and the blower motor 122 for rotating the blower wheel 121 are integrated into a single part, so that the overall size of the air conditioner can be reduced by miniaturizing the housing and concentrating components, and manufacturing costs can be reduced by simplifying the assembly process.

[0028] The blower unit 120 includes a flange 310, a first connection 1225 and a second connection 220.

[0029] The blower motor 122 is attached to and fixed on the flange 310, and a circuit board 400 of the blower control unit 200 is connected to one side of the blower motor's mounting section. The circuit board 400 is in the form of an approximately rectangular plate and includes several elements 201 arranged on one side of it, and a connector 270 also located on one side, allowing it to be connected to external wiring. Fig. Figure 3 represents the blower control unit 200, but the blower control unit 200 actually refers to the circuit board 400, which is arranged within a blower cover 350. The flange 310 includes a motor insertion hole 311 for inserting the blower motor 122 into it and a coupling hole 319 designed to connect the flange to the blower housing.

[0030] The first terminal 1225 is made of a conductive solid material such as a metal and is arranged to protrude outwards from the blower motor 122. The first terminal 1225 has a long, rigid plate structure of a predetermined thickness. When the vehicle wiring is connected to connector 270 in a state where the first terminal 1225 and the second terminal 220 are connected, the blower motor 122 is actuated.

[0031] The second terminal 220 is designed such that the first terminal 1225 is suitable for insertion into the second terminal and has a conductive solid material, such as a metal, within it to be electrically connected to the first terminal 1225 when the first terminal 1225 is inserted. The second terminal 220 is arranged on the circuit board 400. In this embodiment, the first terminal 1225 is a plug and the second terminal 220 is a socket, but the positions of the first and second terminals 1225 and 220 can be reversed.

[0032] When the blower motor 122 is inserted into the flange 310 and assembled, with the circuit board 400 fixed to the flange 310, the first terminal 1225 is simultaneously inserted into the second terminal 220, thus electrically coupling them. Therefore, the blower unit can be easily assembled, as no cables are connected between the blower motor 122 and the circuit board 400.

[0033] If the blower motor and the circuit board are connected by an additional cable, this inevitably causes a voltage drop. However, this problem is solved by the direct connection between the first terminal 1225 and the second terminal 220. For example, if the blower motor and the circuit board are connected by a cable, a welding process is required to prevent a voltage drop, and the blower motor and circuit board cannot be separated during maintenance or repair. The direct connection between the first terminal 1225 and the second terminal 220 simplifies a separable assembly between the blower motor and the circuit board, and the number of assembly steps is reduced because the welding process is eliminated.

[0034] The first terminal 1225 extends from the lateral side of the blower motor 122 in the longitudinal direction of a shaft of the blower motor, namely in the vertical direction. The first terminal 1225 extends from the lateral side of the blower motor 122 in the axial direction and is bent in the shape of a “¬” and then extends downwards, namely in the direction that it faces the second terminal.

[0035] The second terminal 220 extends from the circuit board 400 to the first terminal 1225, such that the first terminal 1225 is inserted into the second terminal 220. The circuit board 400 is connected to one side of the flange 310, namely the side of the flange that faces the fan wheel 121. The second terminal 220 extends so that it protrudes from the exposed lateral surface of the circuit board 400 and has a groove into which the first terminal 1225 is inserted.

[0036] When the first terminal 1225 is inserted into the second terminal 220, one end of the first terminal 1225 presses the second terminal 220 in the longitudinal direction of the blower motor shaft. In other words, when the first terminal 1225 is fully inserted into the second terminal 220, its end comes into close contact with the bottom surface of the groove of the second terminal 220, thus pressing the circuit board 400 against the flange 310. Finally, the circuit board 400 is fixed between the flange 310 and the blower motor 122 by being supported between them.

[0037] Because the hard first terminal 1225 of the blower motor 122 presses the circuit board 400 while it is fixed in the second terminal 220 of the circuit board 400, the circuit board 400 is pressed further towards the flange 310, thus strengthening the fixing force and minimizing internal movement or transformation in a finished product.

[0038] This means that the first terminal 1225 extends from the lateral side of the blower motor 122 in the direction in which the blower motor and the flange are connected. The second terminal 220 is located in a position corresponding to the first terminal 1225. In this example, the blower motor 122 is connected to the flange 310, and simultaneously, the blower motor 122 and the circuit board 400 are connected.

[0039] The blower unit 120 includes the blower cover 350. The blower cover 350 is connected to one side of the flange 310, to which the circuit board 400 is fixed, and covers an end section of the opposite side of the blower motor shaft 122 and the circuit board 400. The blower cover 350 supports and confines the blower motor 122 in the longitudinal direction of the blower motor shaft relative to the flange 310. When the blower cover 350 is connected to the flange 310, the blower motor 122 is fixed between the blower cover 350 and the flange 310, thus increasing the fixing force between the first terminal 1225 and the second terminal 220.

[0040] The flange 310 has a support wall 312 located on one side to which the circuit board 400 is fixed. The support wall 312 projects outwards to surround at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the blower motor 122, thus supporting and restricting the blower motor 122 in the radial direction. The support wall 312 secures and supports the blower motor 122, preventing it from moving in the radial direction. Furthermore, an extension claw 1224 extends laterally from the blower motor 122. The first terminal 1225 is located on the extension claw 1224.

[0041] The support wall 312 has a fitting recess 313. When the blower motor 122 is attached to the flange 310, the extension claw 1224 fits into the fitting recess 313 to support and restrain the blower motor 122 in the circumferential direction. The fitting recess 313, formed on the support wall 312, is connected to the extension claw 1224 to fix and support the blower motor, preventing it from moving in the circumferential direction. This increases assembly efficiency and prevents incorrect assembly by guiding the blower motor in the assembly direction during assembly.

[0042] The blower unit 120 includes a cooler 260, which serves to dissipate heat. The cooler 260 comes into contact with the opposite side of the circuit board 400, on which the second terminal 220 is formed, and is fixed to the flange 310. The cooler 260 is positioned so that it is exposed in the same direction as the blower wheel 121, along the longitudinal axis of the blower motor shaft. One side of the cooler 260 comes into contact with the circuit board 400, and the other side is exposed to the air to radiate heat generated by the circuit board 400. That is, the exposed side of the cooler 260 is exposed to the interior of the blower housing. The cooler 260 radiates heat through the air blown from the interior of the blower housing.

[0043] The second terminal 220 is located in an area that overlaps with the cooler 260. When the first terminal 1225 presses against the second terminal 220 and the circuit board 400 comes into contact with the flange 310, the circuit board simultaneously comes into contact with the cooler 260. Because the second terminal 220 is located on the surface that overlaps with the cooler, when the first terminal 1225 presses against the second terminal 220, the circuit board comes into perfect, close contact with the cooler 260 to improve heat conduction.

[0044] Fig. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing a construction sequence according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] With reference to Fig. Section 7 describes the assembly sequence of the blower unit according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention. A method for manufacturing the blower unit according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises the following steps: forming the flange 310; fixing the cooler 260 to the flange 310; connecting the circuit board 400 to the flange 310; mounting the blower motor 122 to the flange 310; connecting the blower cover 350 to the flange 310; and bringing together the blower wheel 121 and the shaft of the blower motor 122.

[0046] In other words, the flange is injection-molded first, and then the radiator is attached to the flange. The circuit board is connected to the back of the flange using a screw. Next, the blower motor is mounted to the flange. During this process, the first terminal of the blower motor is automatically connected to the second terminal of the circuit board. Afterward, the blower cover is attached to the flange, and finally, the blower impeller is attached to the blower motor shaft on the front of the flange and connected to it.

[0047] Fig. Figure 8 is a top view of an air conditioning system for a vehicle, showing the interior of an air blower according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention. Fig. Figure 9 is a side perspective view of a blower unit according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention. Fig. Figure 10 is a perspective exploded view of the blower unit according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention and Fig. Figure 11 is a perspective view of the blower unit according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] As in Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10 to Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the air conditioning system 100 for the vehicle according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention includes an air conditioning unit 110 and an air blower unit 150.

[0049] The air conditioning unit 110 comprises an air conditioning housing, an evaporator, and a heating element, all arranged within the housing. The air conditioning unit 110 is designed to receive air supplied by the air blower unit 150 and selectively discharge the received air to multiple air outlets. The evaporator and heating element are mounted at predetermined intervals within the air conditioning housing.

[0050] The air blower unit 150 comprises a blower housing 151 and a blower unit 120. The blower housing 151 has inlets for interior and exterior air, which are formed on its upper side. The blower unit 120 comprises a blower motor 122 and a blower wheel 121.

[0051] The blower motor 122 is a brushed motor that converts direct current (DC) electrical energy into mechanical rotational kinetic energy. The impeller 121 is connected to the shaft of the blower motor 122 and rotates within the motor to blow air into the interior of an air conditioning unit. Axial air, supplied from an interior air inlet or an exterior air inlet formed on the upper part of the blower housing, is blown radially into the interior of the air conditioning unit. The air blower unit 150 includes a blower control unit 200. The blower motor 122 converts DC electrical energy into rotational kinetic energy to generate an airflow through the rotation of the impeller. The blower motor 122 and the blower control unit 200 are integrally formed in the blower unit 120.

[0052] The blower control unit 200 is arranged on the opposite side of the blower wheel 121 in the longitudinal direction of the blower motor shaft. The blower unit 120 includes a flange 310. The blower motor 122 is attached to and fixed on the flange 310, and the circuit board 400 of the blower control unit 200 is mounted on one side of the section of the blower motor that rests on it. This means that the blower control unit 200 is designed to be mounted on the flange 310 on the opposite side of the blower wheel 121.

[0053] The circuit board 400 is in the form of an approximately rectangular plate, long in the transverse direction. The circuit board 400 is combined with one of the two sides of the flange 310, namely the opposite sides of the blower wheel 121. In this example, when the air conditioning unit 100 is installed in the vehicle, the blower wheel 121 is located at the upper part and the circuit board 400 at the lower part.

[0054] The blower unit 120 includes the circuit board 400, on which several components are mounted, and a control unit cover 245 for covering the circuit board 400. Fig. Figure 12 is a perspective view showing a printed circuit board and a control unit cover according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention. With reference to Fig. The components mounted on the circuit board 400 are a FET element 430, a MICOM element 450, a SHUNT element 440 for measuring an electric current, a capacitor 410 for an EMC, and an inductor 420. A connector 270 is located on one side of the circuit board 400 for connection to external wiring.

[0055] The relatively larger components mounted on circuit board 400 are arranged close together. These relatively larger components include capacitor 410, inductor 420, and others. In this example, the relatively larger components are concentrated as close together as possible.

[0056] Furthermore, the components that are relatively sensitive to heat are located at the edge of the printed circuit board 400. These components include the MICOM element 450 and others.

[0057] The control unit cover 245 includes a flat section and a projection 205 in which the relatively larger components are arranged on the dense section so that they protrude, and has a predetermined volume within it equal to the volume of the protruding section. The projection 205 accommodates the components mounted in the dense section. When the air conditioning unit 100 is installed in the vehicle, the control unit cover 245 and the projection 205 protrude downwards, with the projection 205 extending towards the bottom.

[0058] Furthermore, the relatively smaller components are arranged as thickly as possible on the left and right sides, centered on the substrate. The relatively larger components of the circuit board are arranged close together, and the control unit cover 245 has a projection to accommodate the relatively larger components, minimizing the volume of the housing that protrudes outwards, namely in the downward direction.

[0059] The blower unit 120 includes a blower cover 350. The blower cover 350 is connected to one side of the flange 310, to which the circuit board 400 is fixed, and covers an end section of the opposite side of the blower motor shaft 122. The blower cover 350 supports and secures the blower motor 122 in the longitudinal direction of the blower motor shaft relative to the flange 310. The blower cover 350 and the control unit cover 245 can be injection molded as a single unit.

[0060] Fig. Figure 13 is a view showing a position in which the air blower is installed in the vehicle according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. Figure 14 is a view to explain the optimal position of a protruding part according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] With reference to Fig. 13 and Fig. Section 14 describes the optimal arrangement of the projection. The projection 205 is positioned outwards in the vehicle's width direction. More precisely, the projection 205 is located on the opposite side of the air conditioning housing, relative to the rear of the blower motor 122 in the anteroposterior direction of the vehicle and relative to the blower motor 122 in the vehicle's transverse direction. Additionally, the connector 270 is positioned near the area where the relatively larger components are densely packed. Positioning the connector 270 in the same manner as the projection facilitates easy cable connection without requiring passenger space, thus enabling convenient maintenance and repair.

[0062] The air conditioning system according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention assumes a left-hand drive (LHD) vehicle, in which the driver's seat is located on the left side of the vehicle and the passenger seat on the right side. All directions are described below based on the left-hand drive vehicle. However, in a case where the characteristic parts of the present invention are applied to a right-hand drive vehicle, the mounted position of the projection in the left-right direction is reversed relative to the left-hand drive vehicle.

[0063] The air conditioning unit 100 is located in a cockpit module, and the air blower unit 150, in which the blower motor 122 is mounted, is situated in the area where the passenger's feet are. The driver's side cannot provide such space because the steering wheel, brakes, various accelerators, and other components are located there. Therefore, to preserve the passenger's footwell, the length of the downward-projecting protrusion 205 must be minimized.

[0064] The opposite side area of ​​the air conditioning housing, based on the rear of the blower motor 122 relative to the anteroposterior direction of the vehicle and based on the blower motor 122 relative to the transverse direction of the vehicle, is an approximate right and rear area based on the blower motor 122. The projection 205, which is located in such an area, lies diagonally relative to the blower motor 122. Furthermore, the projection 205 is located at the outermost edge, namely at the right side edge of the air conditioning housing, in the width direction of the circuit board 400, so that the widest possible space for the passenger's feet can be ensured.

[0065] The circuit board 400 incorporates a heat sink 210 for heat dissipation. The heat sink 210 is in contact with the opposite side of the circuit board 400, which is the side on which the components of the circuit board 400 are mounted, and is fixed to the flange 310. The heat sink 210 is positioned so that it is exposed in the same direction as the fan wheel 121, along the longitudinal axis of the fan motor shaft. One side of the heat sink 210 is in contact with the circuit board 400, and the other side is exposed to the air to radiate heat generated by the circuit board 400. This means that the exposed surface of the heat sink 210 is exposed to the interior of the fan housing. The heat sink 210 radiates heat through the air blown from inside the fan housing.

[0066] The cooler 210 is positioned on a central section of the printed circuit board 400. By placing the cooler 210 on the central section of the printed circuit board 400, the radiative cooling effect of the circuit board module can be maximized. Furthermore, the components with a relatively higher heat generation are located in an area that overlaps with the cooler 210. The components that generate relatively less heat are FET elements 430 and others. Therefore, the components that generate a relatively higher amount of heat are located as close as possible to the cooler 210 to improve thermal radiation efficiency.

[0067] The circuit board 400 is adjacent to the blower motor 122, partially overlapping it, and is connected to the flange 310. The circuit board 400 has a concave portion 405 formed along an edge of the central portion in the width direction. The concave portion 405 is annular in shape corresponding to the shape of the blower motor 122, allowing a portion of the outer circumferential section of the blower motor 122 to be inserted into the concave portion without interfering with the blower motor 122. The concave portion 405 ensures that the circuit board 400 is positioned as close as possible to the blower motor 122, thus relieving any constraints on the shape of the motor housing.

[0068] Fig. Figure 15 is a rear perspective side view showing part of an air blower according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Fig. Figure 16 is a perspective exploded view of a blower unit according to the third embodiment of the present invention and Fig. Figure 17 is a perspective view of the blower unit according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] As in Fig. 15, Fig. 16 to Fig. Figure 17 shows that the air conditioning system for the vehicle, according to the third preferred embodiment of the present invention, comprises an air conditioning unit and an air blower unit. The air blower unit 150 includes a blower housing 151 and a blower unit 120. The blower housing 151 has inlets for interior air and outside air formed in its upper side. The blower unit 120 includes a blower motor 122 and a blower wheel 121.

[0070] The blower wheel 121 is connected to a shaft of the blower motor 122 and rotates through the blower motor 122 to blow air into the interior of an air conditioning housing, so that axial air supplied from an inlet for interior air or an inlet for outside air arranged on an upper part of a blower housing is blown in a radial direction to be supplied to the interior of the air conditioning housing of the air conditioning unit.

[0071] Additionally, the air blower unit 150 includes a blower control unit 200. The blower control unit 200 controls a voltage applied to the blower motor 122 to control the blower's rotational state. The blower control unit 200 controls the applied voltage to the blower motor 122 either by operation of an air conditioning control user or by automatic setting to control the blower's state.

[0072] In particular, the blower motor 122 and the blower control unit 200 are integrally formed within the blower unit 120. This means that the blower unit 120 includes a blower cover 350 for covering the blower motor 122. The blower control unit 200 is integrated into the blower cover 350, so that the blower motor 122 and the blower control unit 200 are integrally formed with the blower unit 120.

[0073] The blower control unit 200 and the blower motor 122 for rotating the blower wheel 121 are integrated into one, so that the overall size of the air conditioner can be reduced by miniaturizing a product housing and concentrating the components, and manufacturing costs can also be reduced by simplifying the assembly process.

[0074] The blower cover 350 serves to support, fix and protect the blower motor 122, and the blower control unit 200 is integrally integrated into the single blower cover 350 with the blower motor 122, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and the number of mounting holes.

[0075] The blower control unit 200 is located on the opposite side of the blower wheel 121, mounted on a flange for connecting the blower motor 122 to the housing. More precisely, the blower control unit 200 is positioned on the opposite side of the blower wheel 121 in the longitudinal direction of the blower motor shaft and is also located on the side of the blower motor 122. The blower motor 122 is fixed to an approximately disc-shaped flange element. A shaft 1221 projects upwards in the direction of the blower wheel. The shaft 1221 is inserted into a coupling hole 1211 in the blower wheel 121, thus connecting the blower motor 122 and the blower wheel 121.

[0076] Part of the blower motor 122 protrudes from the opposite side of the flange element to which the blower wheel 121 is attached. The blower control unit 200 is attached to the opposite side of the flange element to which the blower wheel 121 is attached. The blower cover 350 is connected to the flange element to cover some or all of the protruding blower motor 122 and covers the blower control unit 200 together with the blower motor 122.

[0077] The blower motor 122 protrudes above the flange element in the opposite direction to the blower wheel, namely downwards, when fully assembled, while the blower control unit 200 protrudes less than the blower motor. Considering the entire air conditioning unit assembly, the lowest section of the blower control unit is higher than the lowest section of the blower motor to avoid increasing the overall size of the air conditioning unit.

[0078] Because the blower control unit 200 is located on the opposite side of the blower wheel 121 in the longitudinal direction of the blower motor shaft due to the protruding part of the blower motor, a dead space that is not used can be utilized and difficulties in manufacturing an arrangement of components in a small space can be avoided, since the air conditioner does not require any additional space for constructing the blower control unit.

[0079] The blower control unit 200 includes a heat sink 210, which generates heat. The heat sink 210 is positioned to be exposed in the same direction as the blower wheel, along the longitudinal axis of the blower motor shaft. The heat sink 210 acts as a heat radiant, with one side of the heat sink 210 in contact with the circuit board 400 and the other side exposed to air to radiate heat generated by the circuit board 400. This means that the exposed side of the heat sink 210 is located inside the blower housing. The heat sink 210 radiates heat through the air blown from inside the blower housing.

[0080] At least part of the cooler 210 lies within the rotation radius of the fan wheel 121. A helical airflow is generated around the fan wheel 121 by its rotation, and the cooler 210 is located within this airflow, thus improving heat radiation efficiency. Furthermore, from a space-saving perspective, the cooler 210 is positioned within the rotation radius of the fan wheel 121 to prevent the air conditioner from increasing in size in the radial direction.

[0081] The cooler 210 can have a radiative fin arrangement to increase the heat exchanger surface area, and it is preferred that the fin structure is formed parallel to the airflow direction, i.e., along an arc. A strong airflow generated at the fan wheel is rotated along the radiative fins, which are formed in a streamlined shape parallel to the airflow direction, so that thermal radiation efficiency can be maximized as the air passes through the radiative fins.

[0082] The following describes an optimized installation position for the blower control unit.

[0083] Fig. 18 and Fig. Figure 19 shows views to explain the optimal position of the blower control unit according to the third preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] With reference to Fig. 18 and Fig. 19 The blower control unit 200 is located on the area of ​​the opposite side of the air conditioning housing, based on the rear of the blower motor 122 relative to the front-to-back direction of the vehicle and based on the blower motor 122 relative to the transverse direction of the vehicle. The air conditioning system for the vehicle according to the third preferred embodiment of the present invention is adapted for a left-hand drive (LHD) vehicle, in which the driver's seat is located on the left side of the vehicle and the passenger seat is located on the right side of the vehicle. All directions are described below based on a left-hand drive vehicle.

[0085] The air conditioning system is located in a cockpit module, and the air blower unit 150, in which the blower motor 122 is mounted, is situated in the area where the passenger's feet rest. The driver's seat cannot provide such space because the steering wheel, brakes, various accelerators, and other components are located on the side of the driver's seat. Therefore, to preserve the passenger's footwell, the length of the downward-projecting protrusion 205 must be minimized.

[0086] The blower control unit 200 is located in an area near the exterior of the vehicle in the right and left width direction of the vehicle, and is also located in an area near the passenger in a front-to-rear direction of the vehicle.

[0087] The opposite side area of ​​the air conditioning housing, based on the rear of the blower motor 122 relative to the anteroposterior direction of the vehicle and based on the blower motor 122 relative to the transverse direction of the vehicle, is approximately a rear and right area based on the blower motor 122. The blower control unit 200, which is arranged in such an area, lies diagonally relative to the blower motor 122.

[0088] A lower part of the air blower unit is inevitably raised in volume when the blower control unit is integrated with the blower motor, but in this case, if the blower control unit 200 is positioned in the diagonal area to avoid the passenger seat footwell and to minimize the length protruding towards the passenger seat (at the rear of the vehicle).

[0089] The blower control unit 200 includes a connector 270, which is connected to the wiring. The connector 270 is a terminal for electrically connecting the wiring by inserting the cable. The connector 270 is designed diagonally relative to the anteroposterior direction and in both the right and left directions of the vehicle. The central section of the blower control unit 200 is located on the right and rear side relative to the blower motor shaft to form a diagonal line. The connector 270 is parallel to this diagonal direction. The wiring is inserted into the connector 270 in the diagonal direction. Because the wiring is easy to insert into the connector 270, work efficiency is improved during assembly and maintenance.

[0090] While the blower motor 122 rotates and is actuated, heat is generated by friction between a commutator and a brush. The air blower unit 150 includes a cooling hole 249, which captures some of the blown air to ventilate the blower motor 122. The cooling hole 249 exists to cool the blower motor 122.

[0091] An airflow generated by the blower wheel 121 passes into the blower motor 122 along a flow channel formed in the blower cover 350, through the cooling hole 249 due to a pressure differential, and then through the interior of the air blower unit 150 via a drain hole. During the ventilation process, the blower motor 122 exchanges heat with the blown air to emit heat.

[0092] The blower control unit 200 is positioned opposite the cooling hole 249, based on the blower motor shaft. The cooling hole 249 is located on the front of the blower motor 122 relative to the anteroposterior direction of the vehicle and in an area facing the air conditioning housing, based on the blower motor 122, relative to the right and left directions of the vehicle. More precisely, the blower control unit 200 and the cooling hole 249 are offset by 180 degrees based on the blower motor shaft.

[0093] In the case of a left-hand drive vehicle, the blower motor 122 is located on the right side of the air conditioning unit 110, and the direction of rotation of the blower motor 122 is counterclockwise. The case of Fig. Number 18 indicates the direction of airflow. Cooling hole 249 is located at approximately 10 o'clock based on the shaft of the blower motor.

[0094] The cooling hole 249 is located at the front of the blower motor 122 relative to the anteroposterior direction of the vehicle and on the side opposite the air conditioning unit housing based on the blower motor 122 relative to the right and left directions of the vehicle, so that the amount of air flowing into the cooling hole 249 is maximized and the size of the air conditioning unit is not increased. If the cooling hole is located elsewhere, the amount of air flowing into the cooling hole may be reduced and the size of the air conditioning unit may be increased.

[0095] Fig. Figure 19 represents a condition in which the blower control unit is located in an unsuitable position that does not exhibit a phase difference of 180 degrees relative to the cooling hole. With reference to Fig.19. If the blower control unit 200 is at an angle of less than 180 degrees in the airflow direction based on the blower motor shaft, namely at position (a), the cooling efficiency of the radiator 210 decreases because the volume of air generated by the blower unit reaching the radiator is reduced. Furthermore, because the connector 270 faces the passenger seat, the passenger footwell space is reduced.

[0096] Furthermore, if the blower control unit 200 is in an angle range greater than 180 degrees in the airflow direction based on the shaft of the blower motor, namely at position (b), the connector 270 on the outer wall side (right door side) faces the interior of the vehicle, so that the wiring cannot be connected to the connector.

[0097] Because the blower control unit 200 and the cooling hole are arranged at 180 degrees based on the shaft of the blower motor, a sufficient volume of air can be ensured to cool the radiator 210, a loss of space in the footwell of the passenger seat can be minimized, and the wiring can be easily fed into the connector.

[0098] As described above, while the present invention has been shown and described in particular with reference to the exemplary embodiments, it is understood by those skilled in the art that the above embodiment of the present invention is exemplary, and various changes, modifications, and equivalents can be made without altering the essential characteristics in the field of the present invention. Therefore, it is understood that the scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the technical concept of the following claims.

Claims

[1] Air conditioning system for a vehicle, comprising: a blower unit (120) having a blower motor (122) and a blower wheel (121) which is rotated by the blower motor (122) to blow air into the interior of an air conditioning housing; and a blower control unit (200) which controls the voltage applied to the blower motor (122) to control the rotational state of the blower, wherein the air conditioning system comprises: a blower cover (350) for covering the blower motor (122), a cooling hole (249) that captures part of the blown air to ventilate the blower motor (122), wherein the blower control unit (200) is installed in the blower cover (350) such that the blower motor (122) and the blower control unit (200) are integrally formed with the blower unit (120) wherein the blower control unit (200) is arranged on the side opposite the cooling hole (249) based on the shaft of the blower motor. [2] Air conditioning system according to claim 1, a first connection (1225) which is arranged on the blower motor (122); and a second terminal (220) which is arranged on a circuit board (400) and is connected to the first terminal (1225). [3] Air conditioning system according to claim 2, wherein the first connection (1225) extends from a lateral section of the blower motor (122) in the direction in which the blower motor and a flange (310) are connected, and wherein the second connection (220) is formed in a position corresponding to the first connection (1225). [4] Air conditioning system according to claim 2, wherein the first connection (1225) extends from a lateral section of the blower motor (122) in the longitudinal direction of the shaft of the blower motor, and wherein the second connection (220) extends to the first connection (1225) from a circuit board (400) such that the first connection (1225) is inserted into the second connection (220). [5] Air conditioning system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein one end of the first connection (1225) presses the second connection (220) in the longitudinal direction of the shaft of the blower motor when the first connection (1225) is inserted into the second connection (220). [6] Air conditioning system according to claim 5, wherein the flange (310) comprises: a support wall (312) extending protrudingly on the side to which a circuit board (400) is fixed, to surround at least a part of the outer circumferential surface of the blower motor (122) in order to support and confine the blower motor (122) in the radial direction; an extension claw (1224) extending laterally from the blower motor (122) and on which the first connection (1225) is arranged; and a fitting recess (313) formed on the support wall (312) to support and confine the blower motor (122) in the circumferential direction through the extension claw (1224), which is fitted into the fitting recess (313) when the blower motor (122) is attached to the flange (310). [7] Air conditioning system according to claim 6, wherein the second connection (220) is arranged in an area that overlaps with a cooler (260). [8] Air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the blower control unit (200) comprises a printed circuit board (400) on which several components are mounted, and a control unit cover (245) for covering the printed circuit board (400), and wherein the control unit cover (245) comprises a flat section and a projection (205) in which the relatively larger components mounted on the dense sections protrude. [9] Air conditioning system according to claim 8, wherein the projection (205) is arranged outwards in the direction of the width of the vehicle. [10] Air conditioning system according to claim 8, wherein the circuit board has a cooler (210) arranged on the opposite side to the side on which the components are mounted and which comes into contact with the circuit board to dissipate heat. [11] Air conditioning system according to claim 10, wherein the components with a relatively larger heat generation are arranged in an area that overlaps with the cooler (210). [12] Air conditioning system according to claim 8, wherein the circuit board (400) is adjacent to the blower motor (122) such that it overlaps with the blower motor (122) and is connected to a flange (310) and has a concave part (405) formed on an edge of the central part in the width direction of the circuit board (400) to conform to the shape of the blower motor (122). [13] Air conditioning system according to claim 8, wherein the components which are relatively heat-sensitive are arranged on the edge part of the printed circuit board (400). [14] Air conditioning system according to claim 8, wherein the blower control unit (200) comprises a connector (270) and the connector (270) is arranged near an area where the relatively larger components are closely arranged. [15] Air conditioning system according to claim 8, wherein the relatively larger components and the relatively smaller components are arranged close to the left side and the right side based on a center of the substrate of the printed circuit board (400). [16] Air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the blower control unit (200) includes a circuit board (400) which is connected to one side of the flange (310) on which the blower motor (122) is inserted and fixed, and a cooler (210) for dissipating heat generated by the circuit board (400); wherein the cooler (210) is arranged such that it is exposed in the same direction as the blower wheel (121) in the longitudinal direction of the shaft of the blower motor, and wherein at least part of the cooler (210) lies within a region of a rotation radius of the fan wheel (121). [17] Air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the cooling hole (249) is arranged at the front of the blower motor (122) relative to the front-to-back direction of the vehicle and at the side opposite the air conditioning housing based on the blower motor (122) relative to the right and left direction of the vehicle.

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