Indoor unit and air conditioning apparatus

Abstract

The indoor unit is a wall-mounted indoor unit of an air conditioner. The indoor unit includes a heat exchanger, a refrigerant detection sensor, a partitioning member, and an auxiliary pipe. The heat exchanger is disposed in a first space. The refrigerant detection sensor is disposed in a second space. The partitioning member partitions the first space and the second space. The auxiliary pipe is disposed to extend from the first space to the second space across the partitioning member. One end of the auxiliary pipe is connected to the heat exchanger in the first space, and the other end of the auxiliary pipe is located in the second space.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an indoor unit and an air conditioner.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Patent Literature 1 (JP 2013-64524 A) describes an air conditioner using a flammable refrigerant.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION <Technical Problem>

[0003] In recent years, a highly flammable refrigerant that is particularly easily combusted among flammable refrigerants may be used in the air conditioner. In such a case, it is desirable to improve safety by quickly detecting refrigerant leakage from a refrigerant circuit of a refrigeration apparatus.<Solution to Problem>

[0004] An indoor unit according to a first aspect is a wall-mounted indoor unit of the air conditioner. The indoor unit includes a heat exchanger, a refrigerant detection sensor, a partitioning member, and an auxiliary pipe. The heat exchanger is disposed in a first space. The refrigerant detection sensor is disposed in a second space. The partitioning member partitions the first space and the second space. The auxiliary pipe is disposed to extend from the first space to the second space across the partitioning member. One end of the auxiliary pipe is connected to the heat exchanger in the first space, and another end of the auxiliary pipe is located in the second space.

[0005] According to the present indoor unit, the refrigerant leakage can be quickly detected.

[0006] The indoor unit according to a second aspect is the indoor unit according to the first aspect, and the other end of the auxiliary pipe is connected to a connection pipe extending from an outdoor unit in the second space.

[0007] The indoor unit according to a third aspect is the indoor unit according to the first or second aspect, and further includes a fixing member. The fixing member fixes the auxiliary pipe in the second space.

[0008] The indoor unit according to a fourth aspect is the indoor unit according to any one of the first to third aspects, and a distance between the refrigerant detection sensor and the other end of the auxiliary pipe is 300 mm or less.

[0009] The indoor unit according to a fifth aspect is the indoor unit according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, and the other end of the auxiliary pipe is located above the refrigerant detection sensor.

[0010] The indoor unit according to a sixth aspect is the indoor unit according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, and further includes a drain pan. The drain pan receives dew condensation water generated in the first space. The partitioning member has a wall surface on the first space side. The wall surface on the first space side is configured to guide the dew condensation water to the drain pan.

[0011] The indoor unit according to a seventh aspect is the indoor unit according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, and further includes a motor. The motor rotates a fan that generates an air flow passing through the heat exchanger. The partitioning member supports the motor or a rotary shaft member of the motor.

[0012] The indoor unit according to an eighth aspect is the indoor unit according to the seventh aspect, and the motor is disposed on a side opposite to the second space with respect to the heat exchanger.

[0013] The indoor unit according to a ninth aspect is the indoor unit according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, and further includes an electric component box. The electric component box is disposed on a side opposite to the second space with respect to the heat exchanger.

[0014] The indoor unit according to a tenth aspect is the indoor unit according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, and further includes a cover. The cover is integrally formed to cover a front surface and a side surface of the second space.

[0015] The indoor unit according to an eleventh aspect is the indoor unit according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, and a highly flammable refrigerant flows through the heat exchanger and the auxiliary pipe.

[0016] An air conditioner according to a twelfth aspect includes the indoor unit according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, and an outdoor unit.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner 10 including an indoor unit 30. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the indoor unit 30. FIG. 3 is a front view of the indoor unit 30 from which a front portion of a casing 33 is removed. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a second space S2 of the indoor unit 30. FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the indoor unit 30 taken along line A-A in FIG. 3. FIG. 6 is a side view of a partitioning member 36 as viewed from a left side. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are essentially preferred examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, its application, or its use. In addition, configurations of the respective embodiments, modifications, other examples, and the like described below can be combined or partially replaced within the scope in which the present disclosure can be implemented. Directions of upper, lower, left, right, front, and rear referred to in the following description correspond to directions indicated by arrows in the drawings.(1) Overall configuration

[0019] An indoor unit 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is used in an air conditioner 10.

[0020] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the air conditioner 10 performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle in a refrigerant circuit 11 to perform a cooling operation and a heating operation which are air conditioning operations. In the cooling operation, the air conditioner 10 cools air in an indoor space. In the heating operation, the air conditioner 10 heats the air in the indoor space.

[0021] The air conditioner 10 includes an outdoor unit 20, the indoor unit 30, and a connection pipe 70. The indoor unit 30 and the outdoor unit 20 are connected by the connection pipe 70 to form a refrigerant circulation path. A refrigerant is a highly flammable refrigerant. Examples of the highly flammable refrigerant include R290 (propane), R50 (methane), R170 (ethane), R600 (butane), and R1270 (propylene).

[0022] The connection pipe 70 includes a liquid connection pipe 71 and a gas connection pipe 72. The liquid connection pipe 71 mainly allows the refrigerant in a liquid state or a gas-liquid two-phase state to pass therethrough. The gas connection pipe 72 mainly allows the refrigerant in a high-pressure gas state or a low-pressure gas state to pass therethrough.(2) Detailed configuration(2-1) Indoor unit 30

[0023] The indoor unit 30 is installed in an air conditioning target space.

[0024] As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the indoor unit 30 is a wall-mounted indoor unit used by being attached to a wall surface WL in the air conditioning target space and having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape elongated in a horizontal direction (left-right direction).

[0025] The indoor unit 30 includes a casing 33, a refrigerant pipe 90, a utilization heat exchanger 31, a partitioning member 36, an auxiliary pipe 50, a fixing member 38, a refrigerant detection sensor 40, a cover 41, a drain pan 42, a motor 32, and an electric component box 43. The highly flammable refrigerant flows through the utilization heat exchanger 31 and the auxiliary pipe 50.(2-1-1) Casing 33

[0026] The casing 33 forms an outer contour of the indoor unit 30. An internal space for accommodating the utilization heat exchanger 31 is formed inside the casing 33.

[0027] The casing 33 is formed in a horizontally long box shape. The casing 33 includes a front panel, a rear panel, a top plate, and a bottom plate.

[0028] The casing 33 has an intake port 33a and a blow-out port 33b. The casing 33 is installed in the air conditioning target space such that the rear panel is in contact with the wall surface WL.

[0029] The intake port 33a is an opening formed in an upper part of the casing 33, and is an inflow port of the air into the casing 33. The blow-out port 33b is an opening formed in a lower part of the casing 33, and is an outflow port for an air flow (conditioned air). The indoor unit 30 sucks the air in the air conditioning target space into the casing 33 through the intake port 33a and blows out the conditioned air through the blow-out port 33b.

[0030] The casing 33 has a height of 240 to 310 mm, a depth of 180 to 400 mm, and a width of 700 to 900 mm.(2-1-2) Refrigerant pipe 90

[0031] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the refrigerant pipe 90 includes a liquid refrigerant pipe 91 and a gas refrigerant pipe 92. The liquid refrigerant pipe 91 mainly allows the refrigerant in the liquid state or the gas-liquid two-phase state to pass therethrough. The liquid refrigerant pipe 91 connects the liquid connection pipe 71 and the utilization heat exchanger 31 via a liquid auxiliary pipe 51. The gas refrigerant pipe 92 mainly allows the refrigerant in the high-pressure gas state or the low-pressure gas state to pass therethrough. The gas refrigerant pipe 92 connects the gas connection pipe 72 and the utilization heat exchanger 31 via a gas auxiliary pipe 52.(2-1-3) Utilization heat exchanger 31

[0032] The utilization heat exchanger 31 causes the refrigerant to exchange heat with the air in the air conditioning target space. The air flow generated by a utilization fan 32a passes through the utilization heat exchanger 31.

[0033] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the utilization heat exchanger 31 includes a plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a, a plurality of heat transfer fins 31b, a plurality of U-shaped pipes 31c, and a tube plate 31d. The utilization heat exchanger 31 is a fin-and-tube heat exchanger. The heat transfer tubes 31a, the heat transfer fins 31b, the U-shaped pipes 31c, and the tube plate 31d are made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The utilization heat exchanger 31 is an example of the heat exchanger. The plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a and the plurality of U-shaped pipes 31c constitute a part of the refrigerant pipe 90.

[0034] The plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a are arranged inside the casing 33 such that their longitudinal directions are in the left-right direction and are spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals.

[0035] The plurality of heat transfer fins 31b are arranged inside the casing 33 so as to be orthogonal to the left-right direction and to be spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals in the left-right direction. The heat transfer fins 31b are formed with a plurality of holes through which the heat transfer tubes 31a pass. The plurality of heat transfer fins 31b are arranged between two tube plates 31d in the left-right direction.

[0036] The U-shaped pipes 31c each connect ends of two predetermined heat transfer tubes 31a. A pipe connected to one of the auxiliary pipes 51 and 52 is connected to an end of some of the heat transfer tubes 31a. Thus, the refrigerant flowing into the heat transfer tubes 31a from one of the auxiliary pipes 51 and 52 can flow through the plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a while turning back at the U-shaped pipes 31c.

[0037] The tube plates 31d support the plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a at longitudinal ends of the heat transfer tubes 31a. The tube plates 31d are arranged inside the casing 33 so as to be orthogonal to the left-right direction. The tube plates 31d are formed in substantially the same shape as the heat transfer fins 31b, and are formed with a plurality of holes through which the heat transfer tubes 31a pass.(2-1-4) Partitioning member 36

[0038] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5, the partitioning member 36 is disposed on a right side of the utilization heat exchanger 31. Specifically, the partitioning member 36 is disposed near a right end of the utilization heat exchanger 31 such that a main surface thereof is orthogonal to the left-right direction.

[0039] The partitioning member 36 is a plate-shaped member. The partitioning member 36 is made of resin. The partitioning member 36 may be constituted by one member or a plurality of members. The partitioning member 36 is formed as a separate member from the casing 33, and is attached to the casing 33.

[0040] The partitioning member 36 partitions a space in the indoor unit 30 into a first space S1 and a second space S2. The utilization heat exchanger 31 is disposed in the first space S1. In the second space S2, a pipe connection part 80 that connects the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70 is disposed. The refrigerant detection sensor 40 is further disposed in the second space S2.

[0041] There is a gap between an upper side of the partitioning member 36 and the top plate of the casing 33. From this gap, the auxiliary pipe 50 straddles the partitioning member 36 and extends from the first space S1 to the second space S2. The phrase "the auxiliary pipe 50 straddles the partitioning member 36" also includes a case where the auxiliary pipe 50 and the partitioning member 36 come into contact with each other at a portion where the auxiliary pipe 50 straddles the partitioning member 36.

[0042] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the partitioning member 36 has a guide portion 36a on a surface on the first space S1 side. The guide portion 36a protrudes from the surface of the partitioning member 36 on the first space S1 side toward the first space S1. The guide portion 36a includes a tapered portion. The tapered portion has a bottom surface that is a tapered surface inclined toward the drain pan 42 disposed below.

[0043] The guide portion 36a guides dew condensation water adhering to a surface of the partitioning member 36 on the utilization heat exchanger 31 side to the drain pan 42. The guide portion 36a functions as a water guide channel.

[0044] Note that the guide portion 36a may be disposed such that a wall member 36y separate from a main body portion thereof is connected to a main body portion 36x via the guide portion 36a. In this case, the wall member 36y is disposed in the first space S1. The wall member 36y supports the guide portion 36a. On the utilization heat exchanger 31 side of the wall member 36y, an arc-shaped portion along an outer diameter of the utilization fan 32a may be formed.(2-1-5) Auxiliary pipe 50

[0045] As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the auxiliary pipe 50 is disposed to extend from the first space S1 to the second space S2 across the partitioning member 36. The auxiliary pipe 50 is a portion that extends from the pipe connection part 80 between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70 in the second space S2 to the first space S1 across the partitioning member 36 and starts to branch into the plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a. When the partitioning member 36 includes the wall member 36y, the auxiliary pipe 50 is a portion that extends from the pipe connection part 80 between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70 in the second space S2 to the first space S1 across the main body portion 36x of the partitioning member 36 and starts to branch into the plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a.

[0046] The auxiliary pipe 50 connects the utilization heat exchanger 31 and connection pipe 70.

[0047] Specifically, a first end 50a of the auxiliary pipe 50 is connected to the utilization heat exchanger 31 in the first space S1. The first end 50a of the auxiliary pipe 50 bundles the plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a of the utilization heat exchanger 31.

[0048] A second end 50b, which is the other end of the auxiliary pipe 50, is located in the second space S2. The second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is connected to the connection pipe 70 extending from the outdoor unit 20 in the second space S2. The second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 faces downward. Therefore, even in a state where the indoor unit is mounted on a wall, connection work between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70 can be performed smoothly.

[0049] The pipe connection part 80 between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70 is disposed on a front side of the indoor unit 30 in a top view.

[0050] The auxiliary pipe 50 includes the liquid auxiliary pipe 51 and the gas auxiliary pipe 52. The liquid auxiliary pipe 51 mainly allows the refrigerant in the liquid state or the gas-liquid two-phase state to pass therethrough. The liquid auxiliary pipe 51 is connected to the liquid refrigerant pipe 91. The liquid auxiliary pipe 51 is connected to the liquid connection pipe 71. The gas auxiliary pipe 52 mainly allows the refrigerant in the high-pressure gas state or the low-pressure gas state to pass therethrough. The gas auxiliary pipe 52 is connected to the gas refrigerant pipe 92. The gas auxiliary pipe 52 is connected to the gas connection pipe 72.

[0051] The gas auxiliary pipe 52 is disposed behind the liquid auxiliary pipe 51. The gas auxiliary pipe 52 is thicker than the liquid auxiliary pipe 51. Similarly, also in the connection pipe 70 from the outdoor unit 20, the gas connection pipe 72 through which gas passes is thicker than the liquid connection pipe 71 through which liquid passes. By disposing the gas auxiliary pipe 52 behind the liquid auxiliary pipe 51, when attaching the connection pipe 70 to the auxiliary pipe 50, bending of the gas connection pipe 72 can be made smaller than bending of the liquid connection pipe 71. Therefore, spring back when the connection pipe 70 is bent is suppressed to facilitate attachment of the connection pipe 70.(2-1-6) Fixing member 38

[0052] The fixing member 38 is disposed to protrude from the rear panel of the casing 33. The fixing member 38 may be formed integrally with the casing 33 or may be formed as a separate member. When formed as the separate member, the fixing member 38 is made of resin.

[0053] The fixing member 38 fixes the auxiliary pipe 50 in the second space. Specifically, the fixing member 38 fixes the auxiliary pipe 50 in an upper part of the second space. The fixing member 38 fixes the auxiliary pipe 50 so as to sandwich the auxiliary pipe 50 from the left-right direction.

[0054] The fixing member 38 may collectively fix the plurality of auxiliary pipes 50, or may separately fix the plurality of auxiliary pipes 50. The fixing member 38 may fix all the auxiliary pipes 50 among the plurality of auxiliary pipes 50, or may fix some of the auxiliary pipes 50.

[0055] The fixing member 38 may restrict movement of the auxiliary pipe 50 in the horizontal direction within a predetermined range instead of completely immobilizing the auxiliary pipe 50.(2-1-7) Refrigerant detection sensor 40

[0056] The refrigerant detection sensor 40 is disposed in the second space S2. The refrigerant sensor is attached to a lower part of the rear panel of the casing 33. The refrigerant sensor is disposed such that a gas-sensitive portion faces downward.

[0057] A distance between the refrigerant detection sensor 40 and the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is 300 mm or less. The distance between the refrigerant detection sensor 40 and the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is preferably 200 mm or less, and more preferably 100 mm or less.

[0058] The second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is located above the refrigerant detection sensor 40.

[0059] The refrigerant detection sensor 40 detects refrigerant leakage.(2-1-8) Cover 41

[0060] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the cover 41 is integrally formed to cover a front surface and a side surface of the second space S2. The cover 41 is formed as a separate member from the casing 33.(2-1-9) Drain pan 42

[0061] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the drain pan 42 is disposed below utilization heat exchanger 31.

[0062] The drain pan 42 has a front side portion and a rear side portion. The drain pan 42 receives the dew condensation water generated in the first space S1.

[0063] The drain pan 42 is formed in a box shape with an open top.

[0064] The front side portion is formed in a portion located below a front heat exchange portion and a front auxiliary heat exchange portion.

[0065] The rear side portion is formed in a portion located below a rear heat exchange portion and a rear auxiliary heat exchange portion.

[0066] Drain water flowing out to the drain pan 42 passes along a bottom surface portion of the drain pan 42 and is discharged from an exhaust port to a drain hose.(2-1-10) Motor 32

[0067] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the motor 32 is disposed on an upper side of a left end in the indoor unit 30. The motor 32 is disposed on a side opposite to the second space S2 with respect to the utilization heat exchanger 31.

[0068] The motor 32 is connected to a controller 39. A number of rotations of the motor 32 is controlled by the controller 39.

[0069] The motor 32 rotates the utilization fan 32a. Specifically, the motor 32 is an actuator that rotationally drives a main body of the utilization fan 32a.

[0070] The utilization fan 32a generates an air flow that flows into the casing 33 from the intake port 33a, passes through an air filter 34 and the utilization heat exchanger 31, and is blown out from the blow-out port 33b. The utilization fan 32a is a cross-flow fan.

[0071] The utilization fan 32a is disposed such that its rotation axis extends along the left-right direction and is surrounded by the utilization heat exchanger 31 on a downstream side of the utilization heat exchanger 31 in the air flow.(2-1-11) Electric component box 43

[0072] The electric component box 43 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape.

[0073] The electric component box 43 is disposed on the upper side of the left end in the indoor unit 30. The electric component box 43 is disposed on the side opposite to the second space S2 with respect to the utilization heat exchanger 31. Specifically, the electric component box 43 is disposed on a left side of the motor 32. An upper surface of the electric component box 43 is disposed near the top plate of the casing 33.

[0074] The electric component box 43 accommodates a predetermined printed circuit board and the controller 39.

[0075] The controller 39 is disposed on the left side (see FIG. 3) of the motor 32. The controller 39 is electrically connected to the motor 32 via wiring.

[0076] The controller 39 controls actuators (the motor 32 of the utilization fan 32a and a flap motor). The controller 39 is implemented by a computer. The controller 39 includes a control computing device and a storage device. As the control computing device, a processor such as a CPU or a GPU can be used. The control computing device reads a program stored in the storage device, and performs predetermined computing processing according to the program. Further, the control computing device can write a computing result in the storage device and read information stored in the storage device according to the program.

[0077] The controller 39 determines the presence or absence of the refrigerant leakage based on a detection result of a refrigerant gas detected by the refrigerant detection sensor 40.(2-2) Outdoor unit 20

[0078] The outdoor unit 20 is installed outside the air conditioning target space.

[0079] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the outdoor unit 20 includes a compressor 21, a four-way valve 22, a heat source heat exchanger 23, an expansion valve 24, an accumulator 25, and a heat source fan 28. The refrigerant circuit 11 connects the compressor 21, the four-way valve 22, the heat source heat exchanger 23, the expansion valve 24, the accumulator 25, and the utilization heat exchanger 31 via pipes. The refrigerant circuit 11 is filled with the refrigerant.

[0080] In a cooling operation mode, the four-way valve 22 is switched to a connection state indicated by solid lines, connects the compressor 21 and the heat source heat exchanger 23, and connects the utilization heat exchanger 31 and the accumulator 25. In a heating operation mode, the four-way valve 22 is switched to a connection state indicated by broken lines, connects the compressor 21 and the utilization heat exchanger 31, and connects the heat source heat exchanger 23 and the accumulator 25.(3) Overall operation

[0081] A basic operation of the air conditioner 10 will be described. The air conditioner 10 performs the cooling operation and the heating operation.(3-1) Circulation of refrigerant in cooling operation

[0082] In the cooling operation, a gas refrigerant compressed by compressor 21 is sent to heat source heat exchanger 23 through four-way valve 22. The refrigerant exchanges heat with the air (heat source) outside the air conditioning target space blown by the heat source fan 28 in the heat source heat exchanger 23 and condenses. The refrigerant subjected to heat exchange in the heat source heat exchanger 23 is expanded and decompressed by the expansion valve 24, and sent to the utilization heat exchanger 31 of the indoor unit 30 through the liquid connection pipe 71, the liquid auxiliary pipe 51, and the liquid refrigerant pipe 91. A low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant sent from the expansion valve 24 to the utilization heat exchanger 31 of the indoor unit 30 exchanges heat with the air in the air conditioning target space blown by the utilization fan 32a in the utilization heat exchanger 31 and evaporates. At this time, the air having exchanged heat with the refrigerant is cooled. The gas refrigerant or gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant subjected to the heat exchange in the utilization heat exchanger 31 is sucked into the compressor 21 through the gas refrigerant pipe 92, the gas auxiliary pipe 52, the gas connection pipe 72, the four-way valve 22, and the accumulator 25. The conditioned air cooled by the utilization heat exchanger 31 is blown out from the indoor unit 30 into the air conditioning target space to cool a room.(3-2) Refrigerant circulation in heating operation

[0083] In the heating operation, the gas refrigerant compressed by the compressor 21 is sent to the utilization heat exchanger 31 through the four-way valve 22, the gas connection pipe 72, the gas auxiliary pipe 52, and the gas refrigerant pipe 92. The refrigerant exchanges heat with the air in the air conditioning target space blown by the utilization fan 32a in the utilization heat exchanger 31 and condenses. At this time, the air having exchanged heat with the refrigerant is heated. The refrigerant subjected to heat exchange in the utilization heat exchanger 31 is sent to the expansion valve 24 through the liquid refrigerant pipe 91, the liquid auxiliary pipe 51, and the liquid connection pipe 71. The low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant expanded and decompressed by the expansion valve 24 is sent to the heat source heat exchanger 23, and exchanges heat with the air outside the air conditioning target space blown by the heat source fan 28 in the heat source heat exchanger 23 to evaporate. The gas refrigerant or gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant subjected to the heat exchange in the heat source heat exchanger 23 is sucked into the compressor 21 through the four-way valve 22 and the accumulator 25. The conditioned air heated by the utilization heat exchanger 31 is blown out from the indoor unit 30 into the air conditioning target space to heat the room.(4) Characteristics

[0084] (4-1) The indoor unit 30 is a wall-mounted indoor unit 30 of the air conditioner 10, and includes the heat exchanger, the refrigerant detection sensor 40, the partitioning member 36, and the auxiliary pipe 50. The heat exchanger is disposed in the first space S1. The refrigerant detection sensor 40 is disposed in the second space S2. The partitioning member 36 partitions the first space S1 and the second space S2. The auxiliary pipe 50 is disposed to extend from the first space S1 to the second space S2 across the partitioning member 36. The auxiliary pipe 50 has the first end 50a connected to the utilization heat exchanger 31 in the first space S1, and the second end 50b located in the second space S2.

[0085] The first space S1 in which the utilization heat exchanger 31 is disposed is easily affected by the air flow passing through the utilization heat exchanger 31. According to the indoor unit 30, the second space S2 in which the refrigerant detection sensor 40 is disposed is partitioned from the first space S1 by the partitioning member 36. Therefore, an influence of the air flow passing through the utilization heat exchanger 31 can be reduced, and the refrigerant leakage can be quickly detected.

[0086] Further, the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is a portion where the refrigerant leakage may occur. In the air conditioner 10 of a conventional wall-mounted indoor unit, the auxiliary pipe and the connection pipe connected to the outdoor unit are connected outside the indoor unit. In this case, a separate refrigerant detection sensor needs to be disposed outside the indoor unit. In the indoor unit 30, the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is disposed in the second space S2 of the indoor unit 30. Thus, when the refrigerant leakage occurs, the refrigerant detection sensor 40 disposed in the indoor unit 30 can quickly detect the refrigerant leakage.

[0087] Further, the partitioning member 36 suppresses generation of the dew condensation water in the second space S2, so that deterioration of the refrigerant detection sensor 40 can also be suppressed.

[0088] (4-2) The second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is connected to the connection pipe extending from the outdoor unit in the second space S2.

[0089] The pipe connection part 80 between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe is a portion where connection is performed by the connection work at an installation site, and there is a high possibility that the refrigerant leakage occurs as compared with other portions. In the present indoor unit 30, the pipe connection part 80, which is a connection part between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70, is disposed in the second space S2 of the indoor unit 30. This makes it possible to dispose the refrigerant detection sensor 40 near the pipe connection part 80. Therefore, even when the refrigerant leakage occurs at the pipe connection part 80, the refrigerant leakage can be quickly detected.

[0090] (4-3) The indoor unit 30 further includes the fixing member 38. The fixing member 38 fixes the auxiliary pipe 50 in the second space S2.

[0091] In this configuration, since the fixing member 38 fixes the auxiliary pipe 50 in the second space S2 to restrict the movement of the auxiliary pipe 50, the auxiliary pipe 50 can be stabilized in the connection work between the connection pipe and the auxiliary pipe 50, and the connection work can be performed smoothly.

[0092] (4-4) The distance between the refrigerant detection sensor 40 and the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is 300 mm or less.

[0093] In this configuration, since the distance between the refrigerant detection sensor 40 and the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is sufficiently short, the refrigerant leakage can be quickly detected.

[0094] (4-5) The second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is located above the refrigerant detection sensor 40.

[0095] The highly flammable refrigerant such as R290 has a specific gravity greater than that of the air, and tends to accumulate in a lower part of the indoor unit 30 when the refrigerant leaks. In this configuration, since the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is located above the refrigerant detection sensor 40, the leaking refrigerant can be reliably detected.

[0096] (4-6) The indoor unit 30 further includes the drain pan 42. The drain pan 42 receives the dew condensation water generated in the first space S1. The partitioning member 36 has the guide portion 36a on the first space S1 side. The guide portion 36a on the first space S1 side is configured to guide the dew condensation water to the drain pan 42.

[0097] In this configuration, since the dew condensation water is generated in the first space S1 and guided to the drain pan 42, the generation of the dew condensation water in the second space S2 can be suppressed. Therefore, an adverse effect of the dew condensation water on a refrigerant leakage sensor can be reduced, and the deterioration of the refrigerant leakage sensor can be suppressed.

[0098] (4-7) The motor 32 is disposed on the side opposite to the second space S2 with respect to the heat exchanger.

[0099] In this configuration, even when the refrigerant leakage occurs at the pipe connection part 80 which is a connection part between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70, an ignition risk can be suppressed. In addition, a space for the connection work at the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 in the second space S2 can be secured.

[0100] (4-8) The indoor unit 30 further includes the electric component box 43. The electric component box 43 is disposed on the side opposite to the second space S2 with respect to the heat exchanger.

[0101] In this configuration, even when the refrigerant leakage occurs at the pipe connection part 80 which is the connection part between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70, the ignition risk can be suppressed. In addition, the space for the connection work at the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 in the second space S2 can be secured.

[0102] (4-9) The indoor unit 30 further includes the cover 41. The cover 41 is integrally formed to cover the front surface and the side surface of the second space S2.

[0103] In this configuration, the connection work at the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 can be performed smoothly by removing the cover 41.

[0104] (4-10) The highly flammable refrigerant flows through the utilization heat exchanger 31 and the auxiliary pipe 50.

[0105] In this configuration, even when the highly flammable refrigerant is used, it is possible to quickly detect the leakage before a large amount of refrigerant leaks.

[0106] (4-11) The air conditioner 10 according to a twelfth aspect includes the indoor unit 30 according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, and the outdoor unit 20.(5) Modifications(5-1) Modification A

[0107] In the above embodiment, the partitioning member 36 is formed as the separate member from the casing 33, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The partitioning member 36 may be formed integrally with the casing 33.(5-2) Modification B

[0108] In the above embodiment, the motor 32 is disposed on the upper side of the left end in the indoor unit 30, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the motor 32 may be disposed on the second space S2 side with respect to the utilization heat exchanger 31.

[0109] In the present modification B, the motor 32 is supported by the partitioning member 36. In this configuration, the partitioning member 36 can also be used as a member that supports the motor 32 or a rotary shaft member of the motor 32. Therefore, the number of components can be reduced.

[0110] Further, the motor 32 includes the rotary shaft member. The rotary shaft member may be supported by the partitioning member 36.

[0111] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in forms and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure described in the claims. In addition, the above embodiments and modifications may be appropriately combined or replaced as long as functions of an object of the present disclosure are not impaired. The above descriptions of "first", "second", ... are used to distinguish words and phrases to which these descriptions are given, and the number and order of the words and phrases are not limited.INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0112] As described above, the present disclosure is useful for the indoor unit and the air conditioner.REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

[0113] 10air conditioner 11refrigerant circuit 20outdoor unit 30indoor unit 31utilization heat exchanger (example of heat exchanger) 31aheat transfer tube 31bheat transfer fin 31cU-shaped pipe 31dtube plate 32motor 32autilization fan 33casing 36partitioning member 36aguide portion (example of wall surface on first space side) 38fixing member 40refrigerant detection sensor 41cover 42drain pan 43electric component box 50auxiliary pipe 50afirst end (example of one end of auxiliary pipe) 50bsecond end (example of the other end of auxiliary pipe) 51liquid auxiliary pipe 52gas auxiliary pipe 70connection pipe 71liquid connection pipe 72gas connection pipe 80pipe connection part 90refrigerant pipe 91liquid refrigerant pipe 92gas refrigerant pipe 10air conditioner S1first space S2second space CITATION LIST PATENT LITERATURE

[0114] Patent Literature 1: JP 2013-64524 A

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are essentially preferred examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, its application, or its use. In addition, configurations of the respective embodiments, modifications, other examples, and the like described below can be combined or partially replaced within the scope in which the present disclosure can be implemented. Directions of upper, lower, left, right, front, and rear referred to in the following description correspond to directions indicated by arrows in the drawings.

(1) Overall configuration

[0019]An indoor unit 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is used in an air conditioner 10.

[0020]As illustrated in FIG. 1, the air conditioner 10 performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle in a refrigerant circuit 11 to perform a cooling operation and a heating operation which are air c...

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an indoor unit and an air conditioner.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Patent Literature 1 (JP 2013-64524 A) describes an air conditioner using a flammable refrigerant.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION <Technical Problem>

[0003] In recent years, a highly flammable refrigerant that is particularly easily combusted among flammable refrigerants may be used in the air conditioner. In such a case, it is desirable to improve safety by quickly detecting refrigerant leakage from a refrigerant circuit of a refrigeration apparatus.<Solution to Problem>

[0004] An indoor unit according to a first aspect is a wall-mounted indoor unit of the air conditioner. The indoor unit includes a heat exchanger, a refrigerant detection sensor, a partitioning member, and an auxiliary pipe. The heat exchanger is disposed in a first space. The refrigerant detection sensor is disposed in a second space. The partitioning member partitions the first space and the second space. The auxiliary pipe is disposed to extend from the first space to the second space across the partitioning member. One end of the auxiliary pipe is connected to the heat exchanger in the first space, and another end of the auxiliary pipe is located in the second space.

[0005] According to the present indoor unit, the refrigerant leakage can be quickly detected.

[0006] The indoor unit according to a second aspect is the indoor unit according to the first aspect, and the other end of the auxiliary pipe is connected to a connection pipe extending from an outdoor unit in the second space.

[0007] The indoor unit according to a third aspect is the indoor unit according to the first or second aspect, and further includes a fixing member. The fixing member fixes the auxiliary pipe in the second space.

[0008] The indoor unit according to a fourth aspect is the indoor unit according to any one of the first to third aspects, and a distance between the refrigerant detection sensor and the other end of the auxiliary pipe is 300 mm or less.

[0009] The indoor unit according to a fifth aspect is the indoor unit according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, and the other end of the auxiliary pipe is located above the refrigerant detection sensor.

[0010] The indoor unit according to a sixth aspect is the indoor unit according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, and further includes a drain pan. The drain pan receives dew condensation water generated in the first space. The partitioning member has a wall surface on the first space side. The wall surface on the first space side is configured to guide the dew condensation water to the drain pan.

[0011] The indoor unit according to a seventh aspect is the indoor unit according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, and further includes a motor. The motor rotates a fan that generates an air flow passing through the heat exchanger. The partitioning member supports the motor or a rotary shaft member of the motor.

[0012] The indoor unit according to an eighth aspect is the indoor unit according to the seventh aspect, and the motor is disposed on a side opposite to the second space with respect to the heat exchanger.

[0013] The indoor unit according to a ninth aspect is the indoor unit according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, and further includes an electric component box. The electric component box is disposed on a side opposite to the second space with respect to the heat exchanger.

[0014] The indoor unit according to a tenth aspect is the indoor unit according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, and further includes a cover. The cover is integrally formed to cover a front surface and a side surface of the second space.

[0015] The indoor unit according to an eleventh aspect is the indoor unit according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, and a highly flammable refrigerant flows through the heat exchanger and the auxiliary pipe.

[0016] An air conditioner according to a twelfth aspect includes the indoor unit according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, and an outdoor unit.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner 10 including an indoor unit 30. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the indoor unit 30. FIG. 3 is a front view of the indoor unit 30 from which a front portion of a casing 33 is removed. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a second space S2 of the indoor unit 30. FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the indoor unit 30 taken along line A-A in FIG. 3. FIG. 6 is a side view of a partitioning member 36 as viewed from a left side. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are essentially preferred examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, its application, or its use. In addition, configurations of the respective embodiments, modifications, other examples, and the like described below can be combined or partially replaced within the scope in which the present disclosure can be implemented. Directions of upper, lower, left, right, front, and rear referred to in the following description correspond to directions indicated by arrows in the drawings.(1) Overall configuration

[0019] An indoor unit 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is used in an air conditioner 10.

[0020] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the air conditioner 10 performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle in a refrigerant circuit 11 to perform a cooling operation and a heating operation which are air conditioning operations. In the cooling operation, the air conditioner 10 cools air in an indoor space. In the heating operation, the air conditioner 10 heats the air in the indoor space.

[0021] The air conditioner 10 includes an outdoor unit 20, the indoor unit 30, and a connection pipe 70. The indoor unit 30 and the outdoor unit 20 are connected by the connection pipe 70 to form a refrigerant circulation path. A refrigerant is a highly flammable refrigerant. Examples of the highly flammable refrigerant include R290 (propane), R50 (methane), R170 (ethane), R600 (butane), and R1270 (propylene).

[0022] The connection pipe 70 includes a liquid connection pipe 71 and a gas connection pipe 72. The liquid connection pipe 71 mainly allows the refrigerant in a liquid state or a gas-liquid two-phase state to pass therethrough. The gas connection pipe 72 mainly allows the refrigerant in a high-pressure gas state or a low-pressure gas state to pass therethrough.(2) Detailed configuration(2-1) Indoor unit 30

[0023] The indoor unit 30 is installed in an air conditioning target space.

[0024] As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the indoor unit 30 is a wall-mounted indoor unit used by being attached to a wall surface WL in the air conditioning target space and having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape elongated in a horizontal direction (left-right direction).

[0025] The indoor unit 30 includes a casing 33, a refrigerant pipe 90, a utilization heat exchanger 31, a partitioning member 36, an auxiliary pipe 50, a fixing member 38, a refrigerant detection sensor 40, a cover 41, a drain pan 42, a motor 32, and an electric component box 43. The highly flammable refrigerant flows through the utilization heat exchanger 31 and the auxiliary pipe 50.(2-1-1) Casing 33

[0026] The casing 33 forms an outer contour of the indoor unit 30. An internal space for accommodating the utilization heat exchanger 31 is formed inside the casing 33.

[0027] The casing 33 is formed in a horizontally long box shape. The casing 33 includes a front panel, a rear panel, a top plate, and a bottom plate.

[0028] The casing 33 has an intake port 33a and a blow-out port 33b. The casing 33 is installed in the air conditioning target space such that the rear panel is in contact with the wall surface WL.

[0029] The intake port 33a is an opening formed in an upper part of the casing 33, and is an inflow port of the air into the casing 33. The blow-out port 33b is an opening formed in a lower part of the casing 33, and is an outflow port for an air flow (conditioned air). The indoor unit 30 sucks the air in the air conditioning target space into the casing 33 through the intake port 33a and blows out the conditioned air through the blow-out port 33b.

[0030] The casing 33 has a height of 240 to 310 mm, a depth of 180 to 400 mm, and a width of 700 to 900 mm.(2-1-2) Refrigerant pipe 90

[0031] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the refrigerant pipe 90 includes a liquid refrigerant pipe 91 and a gas refrigerant pipe 92. The liquid refrigerant pipe 91 mainly allows the refrigerant in the liquid state or the gas-liquid two-phase state to pass therethrough. The liquid refrigerant pipe 91 connects the liquid connection pipe 71 and the utilization heat exchanger 31 via a liquid auxiliary pipe 51. The gas refrigerant pipe 92 mainly allows the refrigerant in the high-pressure gas state or the low-pressure gas state to pass therethrough. The gas refrigerant pipe 92 connects the gas connection pipe 72 and the utilization heat exchanger 31 via a gas auxiliary pipe 52.(2-1-3) Utilization heat exchanger 31

[0032] The utilization heat exchanger 31 causes the refrigerant to exchange heat with the air in the air conditioning target space. The air flow generated by a utilization fan 32a passes through the utilization heat exchanger 31.

[0033] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the utilization heat exchanger 31 includes a plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a, a plurality of heat transfer fins 31b, a plurality of U-shaped pipes 31c, and a tube plate 31d. The utilization heat exchanger 31 is a fin-and-tube heat exchanger. The heat transfer tubes 31a, the heat transfer fins 31b, the U-shaped pipes 31c, and the tube plate 31d are made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The utilization heat exchanger 31 is an example of the heat exchanger. The plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a and the plurality of U-shaped pipes 31c constitute a part of the refrigerant pipe 90.

[0034] The plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a are arranged inside the casing 33 such that their longitudinal directions are in the left-right direction and are spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals.

[0035] The plurality of heat transfer fins 31b are arranged inside the casing 33 so as to be orthogonal to the left-right direction and to be spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals in the left-right direction. The heat transfer fins 31b are formed with a plurality of holes through which the heat transfer tubes 31a pass. The plurality of heat transfer fins 31b are arranged between two tube plates 31d in the left-right direction.

[0036] The U-shaped pipes 31c each connect ends of two predetermined heat transfer tubes 31a. A pipe connected to one of the auxiliary pipes 51 and 52 is connected to an end of some of the heat transfer tubes 31a. Thus, the refrigerant flowing into the heat transfer tubes 31a from one of the auxiliary pipes 51 and 52 can flow through the plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a while turning back at the U-shaped pipes 31c.

[0037] The tube plates 31d support the plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a at longitudinal ends of the heat transfer tubes 31a. The tube plates 31d are arranged inside the casing 33 so as to be orthogonal to the left-right direction. The tube plates 31d are formed in substantially the same shape as the heat transfer fins 31b, and are formed with a plurality of holes through which the heat transfer tubes 31a pass.(2-1-4) Partitioning member 36

[0038] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5, the partitioning member 36 is disposed on a right side of the utilization heat exchanger 31. Specifically, the partitioning member 36 is disposed near a right end of the utilization heat exchanger 31 such that a main surface thereof is orthogonal to the left-right direction.

[0039] The partitioning member 36 is a plate-shaped member. The partitioning member 36 is made of resin. The partitioning member 36 may be constituted by one member or a plurality of members. The partitioning member 36 is formed as a separate member from the casing 33, and is attached to the casing 33.

[0040] The partitioning member 36 partitions a space in the indoor unit 30 into a first space S1 and a second space S2. The utilization heat exchanger 31 is disposed in the first space S1. In the second space S2, a pipe connection part 80 that connects the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70 is disposed. The refrigerant detection sensor 40 is further disposed in the second space S2.

[0041] There is a gap between an upper side of the partitioning member 36 and the top plate of the casing 33. From this gap, the auxiliary pipe 50 straddles the partitioning member 36 and extends from the first space S1 to the second space S2. The phrase "the auxiliary pipe 50 straddles the partitioning member 36" also includes a case where the auxiliary pipe 50 and the partitioning member 36 come into contact with each other at a portion where the auxiliary pipe 50 straddles the partitioning member 36.

[0042] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the partitioning member 36 has a guide portion 36a on a surface on the first space S1 side. The guide portion 36a protrudes from the surface of the partitioning member 36 on the first space S1 side toward the first space S1. The guide portion 36a includes a tapered portion. The tapered portion has a bottom surface that is a tapered surface inclined toward the drain pan 42 disposed below.

[0043] The guide portion 36a guides dew condensation water adhering to a surface of the partitioning member 36 on the utilization heat exchanger 31 side to the drain pan 42. The guide portion 36a functions as a water guide channel.

[0044] Note that the guide portion 36a may be disposed such that a wall member 36y separate from a main body portion thereof is connected to a main body portion 36x via the guide portion 36a. In this case, the wall member 36y is disposed in the first space S1. The wall member 36y supports the guide portion 36a. On the utilization heat exchanger 31 side of the wall member 36y, an arc-shaped portion along an outer diameter of the utilization fan 32a may be formed.(2-1-5) Auxiliary pipe 50

[0045] As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the auxiliary pipe 50 is disposed to extend from the first space S1 to the second space S2 across the partitioning member 36. The auxiliary pipe 50 is a portion that extends from the pipe connection part 80 between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70 in the second space S2 to the first space S1 across the partitioning member 36 and starts to branch into the plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a. When the partitioning member 36 includes the wall member 36y, the auxiliary pipe 50 is a portion that extends from the pipe connection part 80 between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70 in the second space S2 to the first space S1 across the main body portion 36x of the partitioning member 36 and starts to branch into the plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a.

[0046] The auxiliary pipe 50 connects the utilization heat exchanger 31 and connection pipe 70.

[0047] Specifically, a first end 50a of the auxiliary pipe 50 is connected to the utilization heat exchanger 31 in the first space S1. The first end 50a of the auxiliary pipe 50 bundles the plurality of heat transfer tubes 31a of the utilization heat exchanger 31.

[0048] A second end 50b, which is the other end of the auxiliary pipe 50, is located in the second space S2. The second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is connected to the connection pipe 70 extending from the outdoor unit 20 in the second space S2. The second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 faces downward. Therefore, even in a state where the indoor unit is mounted on a wall, connection work between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70 can be performed smoothly.

[0049] The pipe connection part 80 between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70 is disposed on a front side of the indoor unit 30 in a top view.

[0050] The auxiliary pipe 50 includes the liquid auxiliary pipe 51 and the gas auxiliary pipe 52. The liquid auxiliary pipe 51 mainly allows the refrigerant in the liquid state or the gas-liquid two-phase state to pass therethrough. The liquid auxiliary pipe 51 is connected to the liquid refrigerant pipe 91. The liquid auxiliary pipe 51 is connected to the liquid connection pipe 71. The gas auxiliary pipe 52 mainly allows the refrigerant in the high-pressure gas state or the low-pressure gas state to pass therethrough. The gas auxiliary pipe 52 is connected to the gas refrigerant pipe 92. The gas auxiliary pipe 52 is connected to the gas connection pipe 72.

[0051] The gas auxiliary pipe 52 is disposed behind the liquid auxiliary pipe 51. The gas auxiliary pipe 52 is thicker than the liquid auxiliary pipe 51. Similarly, also in the connection pipe 70 from the outdoor unit 20, the gas connection pipe 72 through which gas passes is thicker than the liquid connection pipe 71 through which liquid passes. By disposing the gas auxiliary pipe 52 behind the liquid auxiliary pipe 51, when attaching the connection pipe 70 to the auxiliary pipe 50, bending of the gas connection pipe 72 can be made smaller than bending of the liquid connection pipe 71. Therefore, spring back when the connection pipe 70 is bent is suppressed to facilitate attachment of the connection pipe 70.(2-1-6) Fixing member 38

[0052] The fixing member 38 is disposed to protrude from the rear panel of the casing 33. The fixing member 38 may be formed integrally with the casing 33 or may be formed as a separate member. When formed as the separate member, the fixing member 38 is made of resin.

[0053] The fixing member 38 fixes the auxiliary pipe 50 in the second space. Specifically, the fixing member 38 fixes the auxiliary pipe 50 in an upper part of the second space. The fixing member 38 fixes the auxiliary pipe 50 so as to sandwich the auxiliary pipe 50 from the left-right direction.

[0054] The fixing member 38 may collectively fix the plurality of auxiliary pipes 50, or may separately fix the plurality of auxiliary pipes 50. The fixing member 38 may fix all the auxiliary pipes 50 among the plurality of auxiliary pipes 50, or may fix some of the auxiliary pipes 50.

[0055] The fixing member 38 may restrict movement of the auxiliary pipe 50 in the horizontal direction within a predetermined range instead of completely immobilizing the auxiliary pipe 50.(2-1-7) Refrigerant detection sensor 40

[0056] The refrigerant detection sensor 40 is disposed in the second space S2. The refrigerant sensor is attached to a lower part of the rear panel of the casing 33. The refrigerant sensor is disposed such that a gas-sensitive portion faces downward.

[0057] A distance between the refrigerant detection sensor 40 and the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is 300 mm or less. The distance between the refrigerant detection sensor 40 and the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is preferably 200 mm or less, and more preferably 100 mm or less.

[0058] The second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is located above the refrigerant detection sensor 40.

[0059] The refrigerant detection sensor 40 detects refrigerant leakage.(2-1-8) Cover 41

[0060] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the cover 41 is integrally formed to cover a front surface and a side surface of the second space S2. The cover 41 is formed as a separate member from the casing 33.(2-1-9) Drain pan 42

[0061] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the drain pan 42 is disposed below utilization heat exchanger 31.

[0062] The drain pan 42 has a front side portion and a rear side portion. The drain pan 42 receives the dew condensation water generated in the first space S1.

[0063] The drain pan 42 is formed in a box shape with an open top.

[0064] The front side portion is formed in a portion located below a front heat exchange portion and a front auxiliary heat exchange portion.

[0065] The rear side portion is formed in a portion located below a rear heat exchange portion and a rear auxiliary heat exchange portion.

[0066] Drain water flowing out to the drain pan 42 passes along a bottom surface portion of the drain pan 42 and is discharged from an exhaust port to a drain hose.(2-1-10) Motor 32

[0067] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the motor 32 is disposed on an upper side of a left end in the indoor unit 30. The motor 32 is disposed on a side opposite to the second space S2 with respect to the utilization heat exchanger 31.

[0068] The motor 32 is connected to a controller 39. A number of rotations of the motor 32 is controlled by the controller 39.

[0069] The motor 32 rotates the utilization fan 32a. Specifically, the motor 32 is an actuator that rotationally drives a main body of the utilization fan 32a.

[0070] The utilization fan 32a generates an air flow that flows into the casing 33 from the intake port 33a, passes through an air filter 34 and the utilization heat exchanger 31, and is blown out from the blow-out port 33b. The utilization fan 32a is a cross-flow fan.

[0071] The utilization fan 32a is disposed such that its rotation axis extends along the left-right direction and is surrounded by the utilization heat exchanger 31 on a downstream side of the utilization heat exchanger 31 in the air flow.(2-1-11) Electric component box 43

[0072] The electric component box 43 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape.

[0073] The electric component box 43 is disposed on the upper side of the left end in the indoor unit 30. The electric component box 43 is disposed on the side opposite to the second space S2 with respect to the utilization heat exchanger 31. Specifically, the electric component box 43 is disposed on a left side of the motor 32. An upper surface of the electric component box 43 is disposed near the top plate of the casing 33.

[0074] The electric component box 43 accommodates a predetermined printed circuit board and the controller 39.

[0075] The controller 39 is disposed on the left side (see FIG. 3) of the motor 32. The controller 39 is electrically connected to the motor 32 via wiring.

[0076] The controller 39 controls actuators (the motor 32 of the utilization fan 32a and a flap motor). The controller 39 is implemented by a computer. The controller 39 includes a control computing device and a storage device. As the control computing device, a processor such as a CPU or a GPU can be used. The control computing device reads a program stored in the storage device, and performs predetermined computing processing according to the program. Further, the control computing device can write a computing result in the storage device and read information stored in the storage device according to the program.

[0077] The controller 39 determines the presence or absence of the refrigerant leakage based on a detection result of a refrigerant gas detected by the refrigerant detection sensor 40.(2-2) Outdoor unit 20

[0078] The outdoor unit 20 is installed outside the air conditioning target space.

[0079] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the outdoor unit 20 includes a compressor 21, a four-way valve 22, a heat source heat exchanger 23, an expansion valve 24, an accumulator 25, and a heat source fan 28. The refrigerant circuit 11 connects the compressor 21, the four-way valve 22, the heat source heat exchanger 23, the expansion valve 24, the accumulator 25, and the utilization heat exchanger 31 via pipes. The refrigerant circuit 11 is filled with the refrigerant.

[0080] In a cooling operation mode, the four-way valve 22 is switched to a connection state indicated by solid lines, connects the compressor 21 and the heat source heat exchanger 23, and connects the utilization heat exchanger 31 and the accumulator 25. In a heating operation mode, the four-way valve 22 is switched to a connection state indicated by broken lines, connects the compressor 21 and the utilization heat exchanger 31, and connects the heat source heat exchanger 23 and the accumulator 25.(3) Overall operation

[0081] A basic operation of the air conditioner 10 will be described. The air conditioner 10 performs the cooling operation and the heating operation.(3-1) Circulation of refrigerant in cooling operation

[0082] In the cooling operation, a gas refrigerant compressed by compressor 21 is sent to heat source heat exchanger 23 through four-way valve 22. The refrigerant exchanges heat with the air (heat source) outside the air conditioning target space blown by the heat source fan 28 in the heat source heat exchanger 23 and condenses. The refrigerant subjected to heat exchange in the heat source heat exchanger 23 is expanded and decompressed by the expansion valve 24, and sent to the utilization heat exchanger 31 of the indoor unit 30 through the liquid connection pipe 71, the liquid auxiliary pipe 51, and the liquid refrigerant pipe 91. A low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant sent from the expansion valve 24 to the utilization heat exchanger 31 of the indoor unit 30 exchanges heat with the air in the air conditioning target space blown by the utilization fan 32a in the utilization heat exchanger 31 and evaporates. At this time, the air having exchanged heat with the refrigerant is cooled. The gas refrigerant or gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant subjected to the heat exchange in the utilization heat exchanger 31 is sucked into the compressor 21 through the gas refrigerant pipe 92, the gas auxiliary pipe 52, the gas connection pipe 72, the four-way valve 22, and the accumulator 25. The conditioned air cooled by the utilization heat exchanger 31 is blown out from the indoor unit 30 into the air conditioning target space to cool a room.(3-2) Refrigerant circulation in heating operation

[0083] In the heating operation, the gas refrigerant compressed by the compressor 21 is sent to the utilization heat exchanger 31 through the four-way valve 22, the gas connection pipe 72, the gas auxiliary pipe 52, and the gas refrigerant pipe 92. The refrigerant exchanges heat with the air in the air conditioning target space blown by the utilization fan 32a in the utilization heat exchanger 31 and condenses. At this time, the air having exchanged heat with the refrigerant is heated. The refrigerant subjected to heat exchange in the utilization heat exchanger 31 is sent to the expansion valve 24 through the liquid refrigerant pipe 91, the liquid auxiliary pipe 51, and the liquid connection pipe 71. The low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant expanded and decompressed by the expansion valve 24 is sent to the heat source heat exchanger 23, and exchanges heat with the air outside the air conditioning target space blown by the heat source fan 28 in the heat source heat exchanger 23 to evaporate. The gas refrigerant or gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant subjected to the heat exchange in the heat source heat exchanger 23 is sucked into the compressor 21 through the four-way valve 22 and the accumulator 25. The conditioned air heated by the utilization heat exchanger 31 is blown out from the indoor unit 30 into the air conditioning target space to heat the room.(4) Characteristics

[0084] (4-1) The indoor unit 30 is a wall-mounted indoor unit 30 of the air conditioner 10, and includes the heat exchanger, the refrigerant detection sensor 40, the partitioning member 36, and the auxiliary pipe 50. The heat exchanger is disposed in the first space S1. The refrigerant detection sensor 40 is disposed in the second space S2. The partitioning member 36 partitions the first space S1 and the second space S2. The auxiliary pipe 50 is disposed to extend from the first space S1 to the second space S2 across the partitioning member 36. The auxiliary pipe 50 has the first end 50a connected to the utilization heat exchanger 31 in the first space S1, and the second end 50b located in the second space S2.

[0085] The first space S1 in which the utilization heat exchanger 31 is disposed is easily affected by the air flow passing through the utilization heat exchanger 31. According to the indoor unit 30, the second space S2 in which the refrigerant detection sensor 40 is disposed is partitioned from the first space S1 by the partitioning member 36. Therefore, an influence of the air flow passing through the utilization heat exchanger 31 can be reduced, and the refrigerant leakage can be quickly detected.

[0086] Further, the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is a portion where the refrigerant leakage may occur. In the air conditioner 10 of a conventional wall-mounted indoor unit, the auxiliary pipe and the connection pipe connected to the outdoor unit are connected outside the indoor unit. In this case, a separate refrigerant detection sensor needs to be disposed outside the indoor unit. In the indoor unit 30, the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is disposed in the second space S2 of the indoor unit 30. Thus, when the refrigerant leakage occurs, the refrigerant detection sensor 40 disposed in the indoor unit 30 can quickly detect the refrigerant leakage.

[0087] Further, the partitioning member 36 suppresses generation of the dew condensation water in the second space S2, so that deterioration of the refrigerant detection sensor 40 can also be suppressed.

[0088] (4-2) The second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is connected to the connection pipe extending from the outdoor unit in the second space S2.

[0089] The pipe connection part 80 between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe is a portion where connection is performed by the connection work at an installation site, and there is a high possibility that the refrigerant leakage occurs as compared with other portions. In the present indoor unit 30, the pipe connection part 80, which is a connection part between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70, is disposed in the second space S2 of the indoor unit 30. This makes it possible to dispose the refrigerant detection sensor 40 near the pipe connection part 80. Therefore, even when the refrigerant leakage occurs at the pipe connection part 80, the refrigerant leakage can be quickly detected.

[0090] (4-3) The indoor unit 30 further includes the fixing member 38. The fixing member 38 fixes the auxiliary pipe 50 in the second space S2.

[0091] In this configuration, since the fixing member 38 fixes the auxiliary pipe 50 in the second space S2 to restrict the movement of the auxiliary pipe 50, the auxiliary pipe 50 can be stabilized in the connection work between the connection pipe and the auxiliary pipe 50, and the connection work can be performed smoothly.

[0092] (4-4) The distance between the refrigerant detection sensor 40 and the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is 300 mm or less.

[0093] In this configuration, since the distance between the refrigerant detection sensor 40 and the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is sufficiently short, the refrigerant leakage can be quickly detected.

[0094] (4-5) The second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is located above the refrigerant detection sensor 40.

[0095] The highly flammable refrigerant such as R290 has a specific gravity greater than that of the air, and tends to accumulate in a lower part of the indoor unit 30 when the refrigerant leaks. In this configuration, since the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 is located above the refrigerant detection sensor 40, the leaking refrigerant can be reliably detected.

[0096] (4-6) The indoor unit 30 further includes the drain pan 42. The drain pan 42 receives the dew condensation water generated in the first space S1. The partitioning member 36 has the guide portion 36a on the first space S1 side. The guide portion 36a on the first space S1 side is configured to guide the dew condensation water to the drain pan 42.

[0097] In this configuration, since the dew condensation water is generated in the first space S1 and guided to the drain pan 42, the generation of the dew condensation water in the second space S2 can be suppressed. Therefore, an adverse effect of the dew condensation water on a refrigerant leakage sensor can be reduced, and the deterioration of the refrigerant leakage sensor can be suppressed.

[0098] (4-7) The motor 32 is disposed on the side opposite to the second space S2 with respect to the heat exchanger.

[0099] In this configuration, even when the refrigerant leakage occurs at the pipe connection part 80 which is a connection part between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70, an ignition risk can be suppressed. In addition, a space for the connection work at the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 in the second space S2 can be secured.

[0100] (4-8) The indoor unit 30 further includes the electric component box 43. The electric component box 43 is disposed on the side opposite to the second space S2 with respect to the heat exchanger.

[0101] In this configuration, even when the refrigerant leakage occurs at the pipe connection part 80 which is the connection part between the auxiliary pipe 50 and the connection pipe 70, the ignition risk can be suppressed. In addition, the space for the connection work at the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 in the second space S2 can be secured.

[0102] (4-9) The indoor unit 30 further includes the cover 41. The cover 41 is integrally formed to cover the front surface and the side surface of the second space S2.

[0103] In this configuration, the connection work at the second end 50b of the auxiliary pipe 50 can be performed smoothly by removing the cover 41.

[0104] (4-10) The highly flammable refrigerant flows through the utilization heat exchanger 31 and the auxiliary pipe 50.

[0105] In this configuration, even when the highly flammable refrigerant is used, it is possible to quickly detect the leakage before a large amount of refrigerant leaks.

[0106] (4-11) The air conditioner 10 according to a twelfth aspect includes the indoor unit 30 according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, and the outdoor unit 20.(5) Modifications(5-1) Modification A

[0107] In the above embodiment, the partitioning member 36 is formed as the separate member from the casing 33, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The partitioning member 36 may be formed integrally with the casing 33.(5-2) Modification B

[0108] In the above embodiment, the motor 32 is disposed on the upper side of the left end in the indoor unit 30, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the motor 32 may be disposed on the second space S2 side with respect to the utilization heat exchanger 31.

[0109] In the present modification B, the motor 32 is supported by the partitioning member 36. In this configuration, the partitioning member 36 can also be used as a member that supports the motor 32 or a rotary shaft member of the motor 32. Therefore, the number of components can be reduced.

[0110] Further, the motor 32 includes the rotary shaft member. The rotary shaft member may be supported by the partitioning member 36.

[0111] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in forms and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure described in the claims. In addition, the above embodiments and modifications may be appropriately combined or replaced as long as functions of an object of the present disclosure are not impaired. The above descriptions of "first", "second", ... are used to distinguish words and phrases to which these descriptions are given, and the number and order of the words and phrases are not limited.INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0112] As described above, the present disclosure is useful for the indoor unit and the air conditioner.REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

[0113] 10air conditioner 11refrigerant circuit 20outdoor unit 30indoor unit 31utilization heat exchanger (example of heat exchanger) 31aheat transfer tube 31bheat transfer fin 31cU-shaped pipe 31dtube plate 32motor 32autilization fan 33casing 36partitioning member 36aguide portion (example of wall surface on first space side) 38fixing member 40refrigerant detection sensor 41cover 42drain pan 43electric component box 50auxiliary pipe 50afirst end (example of one end of auxiliary pipe) 50bsecond end (example of the other end of auxiliary pipe) 51liquid auxiliary pipe 52gas auxiliary pipe 70connection pipe 71liquid connection pipe 72gas connection pipe 80pipe connection part 90refrigerant pipe 91liquid refrigerant pipe 92gas refrigerant pipe 10air conditioner S1first space S2second space CITATION LIST PATENT LITERATURE

[0114] Patent Literature 1: JP 2013-64524 A

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are essentially preferred examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, its application, or its use. In addition, configurations of the respective embodiments, modifications, other examples, and the like described below can be combined or partially replaced within the scope in which the present disclosure can be implemented. Directions of upper, lower, left, right, front, and rear referred to in the following description correspond to directions indicated by arrows in the drawings.

(1) Overall configuration

[0019]An indoor unit 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is used in an air conditioner 10.

[0020]As illustrated in FIG. 1, the air conditioner 10 performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle in a refrigerant circuit 11 to perform a cooling operation and a heating operation which are air c...

Claims

1. An indoor unit, that is a wall-mounted indoor unit (30) of an air conditioner (10), the indoor unit comprising: a heat exchanger (31) disposed in a first space (S1); a refrigerant detection sensor (40) disposed in a second space (S2); a partitioning member (36) that partitions the first space and the second space; and an auxiliary pipe (50) disposed to extend from the first space to the second space across the partitioning member, one end (50a) of the auxiliary pipe being connected to the heat exchanger in the first space, and another end (50b) of the auxiliary pipe being located in the second space.

2. The indoor unit according to claim 1, wherein the other end of the auxiliary pipe is connected to a connection pipe (70) extending from an outdoor unit (20) in the second space.

3. The indoor unit according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a fixing member (38) that fixes the auxiliary pipe in the second space.

4. The indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a distance between the refrigerant detection sensor and the other end of the auxiliary pipe is 300 mm or less.

5. The indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the other end of the auxiliary pipe is located above the refrigerant detection sensor.

6. The indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a drain pan (42) that receives dew condensation water generated in the first space, wherein the partitioning member has a wall surface (36a) on the first space side configured to guide the dew condensation water to the drain pan.

7. The indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a motor (32) that rotates a fan (32a) that generates an air flow passing through the heat exchanger, wherein the partitioning member supports the motor or a rotary shaft member of the motor.

8. The indoor unit according to claim 7, wherein the motor is disposed on a side opposite to the second space with respect to the heat exchanger.

9. The indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising an electric component box (43), wherein the electric component box is disposed on a side opposite to the second space with respect to the heat exchanger.

10. The indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a cover (41) integrally formed to cover a front surface and a side surface of the second space.

11. The indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein a highly flammable refrigerant flows through the heat exchanger and the auxiliary pipe.

12. An air conditioner comprising: the indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 11; and an outdoor unit.

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