Refrigeration cycle device, compressor, and method

Abstract

To provide a refrigeration cycle device.SOLUTION: A refrigeration cycle device 10 includes a compressor 24 which compresses refrigerant, a discharge member 103 which discharges the refrigerant within the compressor 24 in response to a pressure within the compressor 24, and a directing member 102 which directs a discharge direction d in which the discharge member 103 discharges the refrigerant to a predetermined direction within a range of configurable directions.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a refrigeration cycle device, and more particularly to a refrigeration cycle device, a compressor of the refrigeration cycle device, and a method performed by the refrigeration cycle device. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, energy depletion and global warming have been attracting attention, and refrigerants used in refrigeration and air conditioning equipment (refrigeration cycle devices) are desired to have a high energy consumption efficiency (COP; Coefficient of Performance) and a low environmental impact. In particular, the issue of global warming has attracted a lot of attention, and there is a demand for refrigerants that have a low direct impact, i.e., a low Global Warming Potential (GWP), due to leakage of the refrigerant, and a low indirect impact, i.e., energy consumption.

[0003] On the other hand, because they are sometimes used in places close to human living environments, consideration is also given to their non-toxicity and low flammability. Currently, several promising refrigerants have been proposed as low GWP refrigerants, and among them, refrigerants that undergo disproportionation reactions but have high performance are known. When disproportionation reactions occur, the refrigerant expands rapidly and the pressure rises rapidly, so measures are required when using refrigerants that undergo disproportionation reactions.

[0004] In relation to the refrigerant that causes the above-mentioned disproportionation reaction, JP 2018-112396 A (Patent Document 1) is known. JP 2018-112396 A (Patent Document 1) discloses a refrigeration cycle device that controls the pressure of the refrigerant in the flow path from the compressor to the expansion valve of the refrigerant circuit (i.e., the high-pressure side) to a threshold value or less by a control mechanism for the purpose of preventing an explosion due to the disproportionation reaction of HFO-1123. Patent Document 1 further discloses a relief valve used to discharge the refrigerant outside the sealed container of the compressor, and discloses a configuration in which the control device opens the relief valve when the pressure of the refrigerant on the high-pressure side of the refrigerant circuit reaches a fourth value. However, since the disproportionation reaction causes the refrigerant to expand suddenly, the refrigerant is ejected even if the refrigerant is released from the relief valve. In addition, there is a possibility that not only the refrigerant but also the oil in the compressor will be ejected. Therefore, depending on the installation state of the refrigeration cycle device, there is a possibility that the refrigerant, etc. will be ejected in an undesirable direction, and a countermeasure against this has been required. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-112396 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above points, and aims to provide a refrigeration cycle device, a compressor, and a method that are capable of preventing refrigerant from being released in an undesirable direction by a release member that releases refrigerant in accordance with the internal pressure of the compressor, depending on the installation state of the refrigeration cycle device (compressor). [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the present disclosure provides a refrigeration cycle device having the following characteristics: The refrigeration cycle device includes a compressor that compresses a refrigerant, a discharge member that discharges the refrigerant in the compressor in response to the pressure inside the compressor, and an orientation member that directs the discharge direction in which the refrigerant is discharged by the discharge member to a predetermined direction within a range of configurable directions.

[0008] The present disclosure also provides a method performed by a refrigeration cycle apparatus, the method including the steps of compressing a refrigerant by a compressor, and discharging the refrigerant in the compressor in a predetermined direction oriented within a range of directions configurable by a directing member in response to pressure inside the compressor.

[0009] Also, according to the present disclosure, there is provided a compressor comprising: a compressor body portion that compresses a refrigerant; a discharge member that discharges the refrigerant in the compressor in response to a pressure inside the compressor; and an orientation member that directs a discharge direction in which the refrigerant is discharged by the discharge member to a predetermined direction from a range of configurable directions.

[0010] The present disclosure also provides a refrigeration cycle device having the following characteristics: The refrigeration cycle device includes a compressor that compresses a refrigerant, the compressor including a pressure detection element that detects the pressure inside the compressor, a temperature detection element that detects the temperature inside the compressor, and a discharge element provided at a predetermined location, a discharge member that discharges the refrigerant in the compressor in response to the pressure inside the compressor, the predetermined location being a location that communicates with the discharge member, and a control device configured to cause the discharge element to discharge in response to determining that the pressure detected by the pressure detection element and the temperature detected by the temperature detection element satisfy a predetermined condition.

[0011] The present disclosure also provides a method executed by a refrigeration cycle apparatus having the following characteristics: The method includes the steps of compressing a refrigerant by a compressor, detecting a pressure inside the compressor by a pressure detection element, detecting a temperature inside the compressor by a temperature detection element, and, in response to a determination by the control device that the pressure detected by the pressure detection element and the temperature detected by the temperature detection element satisfy a predetermined condition, discharging from a discharge element provided at a portion communicating with a discharge member that discharges the refrigerant in the compressor in response to the pressure inside the compressor.

[0012] Other problems and solutions disclosed in the present application will become apparent from the description and drawings of the preferred embodiment of the invention. Effect of the Invention

[0013] According to the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the release of refrigerant in an undesirable direction by the release member that releases the refrigerant in response to the internal pressure of the compressor, depending on the installation state of the refrigeration cycle device (compressor). [Brief description of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a refrigerator according to this embodiment. [Diagram 2] Figure 2 shows how, in a configuration in which a disproportionation reaction occurs and the refrigerant is released from the relief valve, the refrigerant or oil may be sprayed in an undesirable direction depending on the installation conditions of the refrigerator. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of the configuration of a relief valve provided in a compressor of a refrigerator according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 illustrates an example of the configuration of a relief valve provided in a compressor of a refrigerator according to still another embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the internal structure of a compressor provided with a relief valve according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6]FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration for intentionally inducing a disproportionation reaction by discharging in the vicinity of a release member before an accidental disproportionation reaction occurs, according to a preferred embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, but the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiment described below. In the drawings, the same reference numerals indicate the same or corresponding parts.

[0016] The present disclosure relates to a refrigeration cycle device, a compressor for the refrigeration cycle device, and a method performed by the refrigeration cycle device. The refrigeration cycle device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a compressor for compressing a refrigerant, a discharge member for discharging the refrigerant in the compressor in response to a pressure inside the compressor, and an orientation member for directing the discharge direction of the refrigerant discharged by the discharge member to a predetermined direction from a range of configurable directions.

[0017] With the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the release member, which releases the refrigerant according to the internal pressure of the compressor, from releasing the refrigerant in an undesirable direction depending on the installation state of the refrigeration cycle device (compressor).

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the directing member may include a rotating member for varying the release direction of the release member. The range of possible directions is defined by the rotatable range of the rotating member, and the release direction of the refrigerant is configured in a predetermined direction by rotating the rotating member. This makes it possible to orient the release direction of the release member in a desired direction (a direction other than a direction in which release is undesirable) by a simple operation of rotating the rotating member according to the installation state.

[0019] In another preferred embodiment, the directing member is configured to be attachable after at least partial installation of the refrigeration cycle apparatus. The directing member may be one of a plurality of members each having a shape that, when attached, provides a direction within a range of configurable directions of the emission member. The directing member has a shape that, when attached, directs the emission direction of the emission member to a predetermined direction. This makes it possible to orient the emission direction of the emission member in a desired direction (a direction other than an undesirable direction) by a simple operation of selecting one of the plurality of members having a shape that, when attached, provides the desired direction, and attaching it.

[0020] In yet another preferred embodiment, the directing member may be a plurality of connection parts each capable of attaching a release member and arranged in a shifted direction in the circumferential direction of the compressor. The directions of the plurality of connection parts define a direction within a range of directions that can be configured by the release member, and the release direction of the release member is configured in a predetermined direction by attaching the release member to any one of the plurality of connection parts. This makes it possible to orient the release direction of the release member in a desired direction (a direction other than an undesirable direction) by a simple operation of selecting one of the plurality of connection parts that defines the desired direction and attaching the release member to it.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the compressor includes a power supply terminal and an internal wall surrounding the periphery of the power supply terminal and the periphery of a portion communicating with the discharge member inside the compressor. When a refrigerant capable of causing a disproportionation reaction is used as the refrigerant, the reaction may occur starting from the power supply terminal. With this configuration, when a reaction occurs starting from the power supply terminal, pressure propagation due to the disproportionation reaction occurs preferentially toward the discharge member.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the compressor includes a pressure detection element that detects the pressure inside the compressor, a temperature detection element that detects the temperature inside the compressor, and a discharge element provided at a portion communicating with the discharge member. The refrigeration cycle device includes a control device for the compressor. The control device is configured to discharge from the discharge element in response to determining that the pressure detected by the pressure detection element and the temperature detected by the temperature detection element satisfy a predetermined condition. This allows the disproportionation reaction to be intentionally induced by discharging near the discharge member before the disproportionation reaction occurs, thereby operating the discharge member. As a result, it becomes possible to release the refrigerant from the discharge member under control before the disproportionation reaction accidentally occurs at any portion inside the compressor.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the refrigerant is HFO-1123 or HFO-1132(E), which makes it possible to improve energy efficiency and reduce the environmental load while addressing the disproportionation reaction described above.

[0024] A method performed by a refrigeration cycle apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention includes the steps of compressing a refrigerant by a compressor, and discharging the refrigerant in the compressor by a discharge member in a predetermined direction oriented within a range of directions configurable by a directing member in response to a pressure inside the compressor.

[0025] With the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the release member, which releases the refrigerant according to the internal pressure of the compressor, from releasing the refrigerant in an undesirable direction depending on the installation state of the refrigeration cycle device (compressor).

[0026] A compressor according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a compressor body that compresses a refrigerant, a discharge member that discharges the refrigerant in the compressor in response to pressure inside the compressor, and further includes an orientation member that directs the discharge direction in which the refrigerant is discharged by the discharge member to a predetermined direction from a range of configurable directions.

[0027] With the above-described configuration, it is possible to prevent the release member, which releases the refrigerant in response to the internal pressure of the compressor, from releasing the refrigerant in an undesirable direction depending on the installation state of the compressor.

[0028] A refrigeration cycle apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a compressor for compressing a refrigerant, the compressor including a pressure detection element for detecting a pressure inside the compressor, a temperature detection element for detecting a temperature inside the compressor, and a discharge element provided at a predetermined portion. The refrigeration cycle apparatus also includes a discharge member for discharging the refrigerant in the compressor in response to the pressure inside the compressor, the predetermined portion being a portion communicating with the discharge member. The refrigeration cycle apparatus further includes a control device configured to cause the discharge element to discharge in response to determining that the pressure detected by the pressure detection element and the temperature detected by the temperature detection element satisfy a predetermined condition.

[0029] With the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible to intentionally induce the disproportionation reaction by discharging near the disproportionation member before the disproportionation reaction occurs, thereby operating the disproportionation member. As a result, it is possible to controllably release the refrigerant from the disproportionation member before the disproportionation reaction occurs accidentally at any part inside the compressor.

[0030] A method performed by a refrigeration cycle apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention includes the steps of compressing a refrigerant by a compressor, detecting the pressure inside the compressor by a pressure detection element, detecting the temperature inside the compressor by a temperature detection element, and, in response to the control device determining that the pressure detected by the pressure detection element and the temperature detected by the temperature detection element satisfy a predetermined condition, discharging from a discharge element provided in a portion communicating with a discharge member that discharges the refrigerant in the compressor in response to the pressure inside the compressor.

[0031] With the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible to intentionally induce the disproportionation reaction by discharging near the disproportionation member before the disproportionation reaction occurs, thereby operating the disproportionation member. As a result, it is possible to controllably release the refrigerant from the disproportionation member before the disproportionation reaction occurs accidentally at any part inside the compressor.

[0032] Hereinafter, with reference to Figures 1 to 6, a refrigerator 10, a compressor 24 of the refrigerator 10, and a method executed by the refrigerator 10 will be described as an example of a refrigeration cycle device, a compressor of the refrigeration cycle device, and a method executed by the refrigeration cycle device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] The embodiment shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 6 describes a refrigerator 10 as an example of a refrigeration cycle device. Here, the refrigeration cycle device is also called a refrigeration air conditioning device, which is a general term for devices that use a refrigerant and a refrigeration cycle, such as an air conditioner (air conditioner), a refrigerator, and a freezer. More specifically, examples of refrigeration air conditioning devices may include air conditioners such as packaged air conditioners and multi-air conditioners for buildings, heat source devices such as the above-mentioned refrigerators and chilling units, commercial freezers such as showcases, refrigerator-freezers, unit coolers, and ice makers, transportation refrigeration devices such as car air conditioners, and heat pump water heaters.

[0034] First, the overall configuration of a refrigerator 10 as an example of a refrigeration cycle device will be described below with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the refrigerator 10. The refrigerator 10 includes, for example, a first heat exchanger 12, a first fan 13, and a first fan motor 14 in a first housing 11, and includes a second heat exchanger 21, a second fan 22, a second fan motor 23, a compressor 24, a pressure reducing mechanism 25, and a control device 26 in a second housing 20.

[0035] The first heat exchanger 12 in the first housing 11 is connected to the compressor 24 and the pressure reduction mechanism 25 in the second housing 20 by pipes 30 and 31. The second heat exchanger 21 in the second housing 20 is connected to the compressor 24 and the pressure reduction mechanism 25 in the second housing by pipes 32 and 33.

[0036] The compressor 24 draws in the refrigerant in the pipe 30, increases the pressure, and discharges the refrigerant through the pipe 32 toward the second heat exchanger 21. The second heat exchanger 21 exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the air outside the target space by the second fan 22, and air-cools and condenses the refrigerant. There are no particular limitations on the compressor 24, and a scroll compressor can be used, but a reciprocating or screw compressor may also be used.

[0037] The condensed refrigerant is sent to the pressure reducing mechanism 25 via the pipe 33. The pressure reducing mechanism 25 reduces the pressure of the condensed refrigerant. The reduced pressure refrigerant is sent to the first heat exchanger 12 via the pipe 31.

[0038] In the first heat exchanger 12, heat is exchanged between the air in the target space taken in by the first fan 13 and the depressurized refrigerant, and the refrigerant evaporates to cool the air. The cooled air is returned to the target space.

[0039] A first fan motor 14 is connected to the first fan 13, and a second fan motor 23 is connected to the second fan 22. The first fan motor 14, the second fan motor 23, and the motor built into the compressor 24 are driven and controlled by a motor drive device provided in the control device 26 or another member.

[0040] The control device 26 controls each device including the compressor 24 based on the detection values ​​of the above-mentioned sensors and operation signals from the controller. In a preferred embodiment, the control device 26 is a control device that performs an operation to intentionally induce a disproportionation reaction inside the compressor 24 based on the pressure and temperature inside the compressor 24, which will be described later. The control device 26 may be configured as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or may be configured by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a memory, and a nonvolatile recording medium, with the CPU reading out a program stored in a nonvolatile recording medium, expanding it in the memory, and executing various processes.

[0041] Signals from various sensors may be input to the controller 26. Such sensors may include a suction pressure sensor, a discharge pressure sensor, a discharge temperature sensor, a temperature sensor, and the like. In a preferred embodiment, the sensors may include a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor that detect the pressure and temperature inside the compressor 24, respectively. In a preferred embodiment, the pressure sensor detects the pressure inside the compressor 24. The temperature sensor detects the temperature inside the compressor 24.

[0042] 1, the refrigerator 10 is configured as a device that uses the first heat exchanger 12 in the first housing 11 as an evaporator and has only the function of cooling the air in the space in which the first housing 11 is installed. However, the refrigerator 10 may also have the function of using the first heat exchanger 12 as a condenser and heating the air in the space in which the first housing 11 is installed by providing a four-way valve and changing the direction in which the refrigerant flows.

[0043] The refrigerant circulates in the refrigerant circuit consisting of the first heat exchanger 12, the compressor 24, the second heat exchanger 21, and the pressure reducing mechanism 25. In recent years, energy depletion and global warming have been attracting attention, and therefore it is desirable to use a refrigerant that has a high energy consumption efficiency (COP; Coefficient of Performance) and a smaller environmental impact. Several promising refrigerants have been proposed as low GWP refrigerants, and among them, hydrofluoroolefin refrigerants such as HFO (hydrofluoroolefin)-1123 and HFO-1132(E) are known. Many of these refrigerants are known to cause disproportionation reactions. When a disproportionation reaction occurs, the refrigerant expands rapidly and the pressure also rises rapidly, so measures are required when using a refrigerant that causes a disproportionation reaction.

[0044] Since disproportionation reactions generally occur under conditions of high temperature and high pressure, the compressor 24 is the location in the refrigerant circuit of the refrigeration cycle where disproportionation reactions can occur. Therefore, a configuration in which a relief valve is provided in the compressor has been considered, but since the disproportionation reaction causes the refrigerant to expand rapidly, the refrigerant will be ejected even if it is released through the relief valve. In addition, there is a possibility that not only the refrigerant but also the oil in the compressor will be ejected. Therefore, depending on the installation state of the refrigerator 10, there is a possibility that the refrigerant, oil, etc. will be ejected in an undesirable direction.

[0045] FIG. 2 illustrates how refrigerant, oil, etc. may be sprayed in an undesirable direction depending on the installation state of the refrigerator (second housing) in a configuration in which refrigerant is discharged from the relief valve when a disproportionation reaction occurs. Note that FIG. 2(A) and FIG. 2(B) show the installation state of the compressor 24 as seen from above. FIG. 2(A) illustrates an installation state in which the discharge direction d of the relief valve B faces a wall W that may be soiled. FIG. 2(B) illustrates an installation state in which the discharge direction d of the relief valve B faces an object V that is undesirable from being soiled. In general, the orientation of the refrigerator (second housing) and the discharge direction b of the relief valve are fixed, and if the discharge direction d of the relief valve B faces a direction in which the object V that is undesirable from being soiled exists (may exist) due to the installation state, there is a possibility that refrigerant, oil, etc. may be sprayed toward the object V when a disproportionation reaction occurs for some reason.

[0046] Therefore, in the refrigerator 10 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a configuration is adopted in which a release member is provided that releases the refrigerant in the compressor 24 in response to the internal pressure of the compressor 24, and an orientation member is provided that directs the release direction of the refrigerant released by the release member to a predetermined direction from a range of configurable directions. This configuration prevents the refrigerant, etc. from being released in an undesirable direction depending on the installation state of the refrigerator 10 (more specifically, the compressor 24).

[0047] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of the configuration of a relief valve provided in the compressor 24 of the refrigerator 10 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 3 shows the installation state of the compressor 24 as seen from above. FIG. 3(A) illustrates an example of the configuration 100 of a relief valve provided in the compressor 24 of the refrigerator 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3(B) illustrates an example of the configuration 110 of a relief valve provided in the compressor 24 of the refrigerator 10 according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3(C) and FIG. 3(D) are diagrams illustrating the release direction d of refrigerant, oil, etc., adapted to the installation state of the refrigerator 10 (second housing 20) in the example of the configuration 100 (the same applies to 110) of the relief valve provided in the compressor 24 of the refrigerator 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 3(A), a relief valve 103 is provided as a discharging member that discharges the refrigerant in the compressor 24 in response to the pressure inside the compressor 24, and a rotating member 102 that connects the relief valve 103 to the compressor 24 is provided as a directing member that directs the discharging direction d in which the refrigerant is discharged by the relief valve 103. The rotating member 102 shown in Fig. 3(A) has a bent pipe structure at a substantially right angle, and is configured to be rotatable with a degree of freedom in one direction about an axis in the direction of one end of the rotating member 102 that is fixed to the compressor 24, and the direction of the other end bent at a substantially right angle (and provided with the relief valve 103) is directed to a predetermined direction within a range of 360 degrees around the axis. The range of possible directions is determined by the rotatable range of the rotating member 102, and the discharging direction d of the refrigerant is configured to a predetermined direction by the rotation of the rotating member 102.

[0049] Referring to Figures 3(C) and 3(D), the example configuration 100 of the rotating member 102 and the relief valve 103 is shown to be adapted to the installation conditions of the refrigerator 10 (second housing 20) and to direct the discharge direction d in a direction that avoids the object V that is undesirable from being soiled (in Figure 3(C), toward the wall W; in Figure 3(D), toward neither the wall W nor the object V).

[0050] In the embodiment described, the rotating member 102 is described as being capable of continuously changing its direction with a degree of rotational freedom in one direction, but the direction may be changed stepwise, and the degree of rotational freedom of the rotating member 102 is not limited to one direction. The degree of rotational freedom in one direction may be provided by the rotating member 102 being rotatably fixed to the compressor 24, but is not limited thereto, and the rotating member 102 may be configured to rotate at an intermediate portion of a substantially right-angle bent pipe structure. The rotating member 102 may be configured to be rotatable even after the refrigerant is sealed and installed, in order to accommodate rearrangement of the refrigerator 10 after installation and changes in the surrounding environment after installation. In that case, it is sufficient that the rotating member 102 is rotatable while maintaining the hermeticity of the refrigerant as appropriate.

[0051] Similarly, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 3(B), a relief valve 113 is provided as a discharging member that discharges the refrigerant in the compressor 24 in response to the internal pressure of the compressor 24, and an attachment 110 with the relief valve 113 is attached to a connecting part 111 of the compressor 24 as a directing member that directs the discharging direction d in which the refrigerant is discharged by the relief valve 113. The attachment 110 shown in Fig. 3(B) is configured to be attachable after the refrigerator 10 is installed (at least after the installation is completed until the position and orientation of the connecting part 111 of the compressor 24 are determined).

[0052] The attachment 110 shown in FIG. 3(B) is one of a plurality of attachments 110a, 110b, and 110c each having a piping structure 112 having a shape that provides a direction within a range of configurable directions to the relief valve 113 when the attachment 110 is attached to the compressor 24. The piping structure 112a of the attachment 110a has a substantially right-angle bent pipe structure configured so that the relief valve 113 faces a predetermined direction when the attachment 110 is attached to the connection part 111. The piping structure 112b of the attachment 110b is also a substantially right-angle bent pipe, but when the attachment 110 is attached to the connection part 111, the relief valve 113 faces a different direction from the attachment 110a. The piping structure 112c of the attachment 110c is a straight pipe configured so that the relief valve 113 faces a predetermined direction different from the attachments 110a, 110b when attached to the connection part 111. The range of configurable directions is defined by the multiple attachments 110a, 110b, 110c, and the refrigerant release direction d is configured to a predetermined direction by selecting one of the multiple attachments 110a, 110b, 110c to be attached.

[0053] In Fig. 3(B), the number of variations of the attachment 110 provided is three, and three types of directions are defined, but this is not limited to the embodiment shown in Fig. 3(B). The number of variations of the attachment 110 may be two, or may be four or more, and multiple directions are defined for each variation accordingly.

[0054] Fig. 4 illustrates a configuration example 120 of a relief valve provided in compressor 24 of refrigerator 10 according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 4 also illustrates the installation state of compressor 24 as seen from above. Fig. 4(A) illustrates the configuration before relief valve 123 is attached, and Fig. 4(B) illustrates the configuration after relief valve 123 is attached. Figs. 4(C) and 4(D) are diagrams illustrating a discharge direction d adapted to the installation state of refrigerator 10 (second housing 20) in configuration example 120 of a relief valve provided in compressor 24 of refrigerator 10 according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 4(A) and Fig. 4(B), a relief valve 123 is provided as a release member that releases the refrigerant in the compressor 24 in response to the internal pressure of the compressor 24, and a configuration is adopted in which a plurality of positions for attaching the relief valve 123 to the compressor 24 are prepared. The relief valve 123 is configured so as to be attachable after the refrigerator 10 is installed (at least after the compressor 24 is installed to a state in which the positions and orientations of the connection parts 122a to 122c are determined). Orienting members that direct the release direction d in which the refrigerant is released by the relief valve 123 are a plurality of connection parts 122a, 122b, and 122c that can each be attached to the relief valve 123 and that are provided in a shifted direction in the outer circumferential direction of the compressor 24. The directions of the multiple connection parts 122a, 122b, and 122c define directions within a range of directions that can be configured by the relief valve 123, and the release direction of the relief valve 123 is configured to a predetermined direction d by attaching the relief valve 123 to any one of the multiple connection parts 122a, 122b, and 122c.

[0056] Referring to Figures 4(C) and 4(D), a configuration example 120 of multiple connection parts 122 and relief valves 123 is shown in which the release direction d of refrigerant, oil, etc. is directed in a direction that avoids an object V that is undesirable from becoming dirty (the direction of wall W in Figure 4(C), and in a direction where there is neither wall W nor object V in Figure 4(D)) in accordance with the installation situation of the refrigerator 10 (second housing 20).

[0057] In FIG. 4, the number of connection parts is three, and they are arranged at approximately 120 degree intervals from the center of compressor 24; however, this is not limited to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, and the number of connection parts may be two or four or more, and accordingly, they may be arranged at approximately equal intervals or at unequal intervals.

[0058] In any of the configuration examples 100, 110, and 120 shown in Figures 3(A), 3(B), and 4(B), the relief valves 103, 113, and 123 are configured to open in response to a pressure equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold pressure, and release the refrigerant. By setting an appropriate value as the predetermined threshold pressure, even if the disproportionation reaction has started, the refrigerant is ejected before the pressure exceeds a certain level, thereby preventing damage or destruction of the compressor 24. After the relief valve 103 has been activated, it is generally assumed that there is some abnormality that causes a disproportionation reaction of the refrigerant, and therefore the compressor is sent for repair.

[0059] The operation of the refrigerator 10 in the configuration examples 100, 110, 120 shown in Figures 3(A), 3(B), and 4(B) is as follows: (1) A step of compressing the refrigerant is performed by the compressor 24. Then, (2) A step of releasing the refrigerant in the compressor 24 from the relief valves 103, 113, 123 in response to the pressure inside the compressor in a predetermined direction oriented from within a configurable direction range by the directing member (the amount of rotation of the rotating member 102, the selection of the attachment 110 (selection from 110a to 110c), and the selection of the connecting part 122 to be attached (selection from 122a to 122c)).

[0060] The relief valves 103, 113, and 123 are described as being mechanically configured so that when a pressure equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold pressure is generated, the valve opens (or a component breaks) in response to the pressure and releases the refrigerant. From the viewpoint of releasing the refrigerant before the disproportionation reaction progresses excessively, it is preferable that the relief valves 103, 113, and 123 are mechanically configured, but this is not necessarily limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the pressure inside the compressor 24 may be detected by a pressure sensor, and the control device 26 may electrically open the valve to release the refrigerant in response to the pressure exceeding the threshold pressure. In the above description, the direction in which the relief valve faces is changed, but a configuration in which a direction-directing member for directing the release direction is provided ahead of the relief valve may also be used.

[0061] 3 and 4 are preferred embodiments, but are specific configuration examples for directing the direction in which the refrigerant is released from the relief valve to a predetermined direction from a range of possible directions. In other embodiments, various modified examples are possible. For example, the direction may be determined by providing a multi-branch pipe, such as a two-branch pipe or a three-branch pipe, such as a T-shaped pipe or a Y-shaped pipe, in the compressor 24, providing a relief valve only at one end that provides the desired direction, and sealing the other end.

[0062] The configuration for directing the direction in which the relief valve releases the refrigerant to a predetermined direction from a range of configurable directions has been described in detail above. Below, a preferred embodiment that allows the relief valve to more appropriately release the refrigerant will be described with reference to FIG.

[0063] Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating the internal structure of compressor 24 provided with relief valve 103 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 5(A) is a vertical cross-sectional view of compressor 24, and Fig. 5(B) is a horizontal cross-sectional view (perpendicular to Fig. 5(A)) of compressor 24 cut at the center in the vertical direction.

[0064] Compressor 24 includes a housing 201, a suction section 202, a compression section 203, a discharge section 204, a motor 205, lubricating oil 206, a power line 207, and a power terminal section 208. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 5, compressor 24 is further provided with a configuration 100 including rotating member 102 and relief valve 103, and an internal wall section 210 is provided inside housing 201 to surround the periphery of power terminal section 208 and the periphery of a portion where rotating member 102 communicating with relief valve 103 is provided.

[0065] When using a refrigerant that may cause a disproportionation reaction, the reaction may start at the point where the refrigerant comes into contact with the power supply terminal 208, but by adopting the configuration shown in Fig. 5, when a reaction starts at the power supply terminal 208, pressure propagation due to the disproportionation reaction occurs preferentially toward the relief valve 103. This makes it possible to effectively prevent damage to the compressor 24.

[0066] It should be noted that the internal wall portion 210 does not seal the power supply terminal portion 208. The material of the internal wall portion 210 may be, for example, a metal plate. Fig. 5 also shows an appropriate location for providing the relief valve 103, and as shown in Fig. 5, the relief valve 103 is preferably provided in the vicinity of the power supply terminal portion 208 where the disproportionation reaction is likely to occur.

[0067] The above-mentioned release of refrigerant by the relief valve occurs due to a disproportionation reaction that occurs accidentally due to some abnormality, and the timing of the release of refrigerant is not controlled in any way. Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment in which the release of refrigerant by the relief valve can be performed under control will be described with reference to FIG.

[0068] Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining a preferred embodiment in which a disproportionation reaction can be intentionally induced by discharging near the relief valve before an accidental disproportionation reaction occurs. As shown in Fig. 6, in the preferred embodiment, the compressor 24 includes a pressure detection element 27 for detecting the pressure inside the compressor 24, a temperature detection element 28 for detecting the temperature inside the compressor 24, and a discharge element 29 provided at a portion inside the curved pipe structure 102 communicating with the relief valve 103, and these elements are connected to the control device 26.

[0069] In a preferred embodiment, the control device 26 is configured to cause the discharge element 29 to discharge in response to determining that the pressure detected by the pressure detection element 27 and the temperature detected by the temperature detection element 28 satisfy a predetermined condition. Here, the predetermined condition is a condition outside the pressure and temperature ranges assumed in normal operation, and is a condition for detecting that a pressure and temperature higher than those assumed in normal operation have been generated by the disproportionation reaction due to some abnormality.

[0070] In response to determining that the pressure detected by the pressure detection element 27 and the temperature detected by the temperature detection element 28 satisfy the predetermined condition, the control device 26 causes the discharge element 29 to discharge. With this configuration, by discharging in the vicinity of the relief valve 103 before a disproportionation reaction occurs, it is possible to intentionally induce the disproportionation reaction and operate the relief valve 103. Furthermore, it is possible to release the refrigerant from the relief valve 103 under control (inducing a smaller-scale disproportionation reaction) before a disproportionation reaction occurs accidentally at any part inside the compressor 24 (and therefore a large-scale disproportionation reaction occurs). This configuration has a great advantage when applied in combination with the above-mentioned configuration for directing the release direction of the relief valve 103.

[0071] The operation of the refrigerator 10 in the preferred embodiment shown in Fig. 6 is as follows. (1) The compressor 24 performs a step of compressing the refrigerant. Then, during the compression operation, (2-1) the pressure inside the compressor 24 is periodically detected by the pressure detection element 27. (2-2) At the same time, or before or after, the temperature inside the compressor 24 is detected by the temperature detection element 28. Then, (3) in response to the control device 26 determining that the pressure detected by the pressure detection element 27 and the temperature detected by the temperature detection element 28 satisfy a predetermined condition, discharge is performed from the discharge element 29 provided in a portion inside the structure 102 communicating with the relief valve 103 that releases the refrigerant in the compressor 24 in response to the pressure inside the compressor 24 (S3).

[0072] In addition, examples of suitable refrigerants in the embodiments of the present invention include refrigerants that can cause disproportionation reactions, such as refrigerants containing 1,1,2-trifluoroethylene (HFO-1123), trans-1,2-difluoroethylene (HFO-1132(E)), fluoroethylene (HFO-1141), 1,1-difluoroethylene (HFO-1132a), and cis-1,2-difluoroethylene (HFO-1132(Z)), with HFO-1123 and HFO-1132(E) being particularly preferred. These refrigerants may be used alone or in the form of a mixture. The mixture is not particularly limited, but may be a mixture of the above refrigerants with a natural refrigerant such as propane, or another refrigerant such as difluoromethane (R32), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R1234yf), trans-1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R1234ze(E)), cis-1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R1234ze(Z)), 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (R134a), or 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoroethane (R125).

[0073] As described above, according to the above-mentioned embodiments, it is possible to provide a refrigeration cycle device, a compressor, and a method that can prevent refrigerant from being released in an undesirable direction by a release member that releases refrigerant in response to the internal pressure of the compressor, depending on the installation state of the refrigeration cycle device (compressor).

[0074] According to a preferred embodiment, a refrigeration cycle apparatus, a compressor, and a method can be provided that are capable of intentionally inducing a disproportionation reaction to operate the release member, thereby releasing refrigerant from the release member in a controlled manner before a disproportionation reaction occurs accidentally at any location inside the compressor.

[0075] The embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and may include various modified examples. For example, the above-described embodiments have been described in detail for easy understanding, and are not necessarily limited to those including all of the configurations described. In addition, it is possible to replace a part of the configuration of one embodiment with the configuration of another embodiment, and it is also possible to add the configuration of another embodiment to the configuration of one embodiment. In addition, it is possible to add, delete, or replace a part of the configuration of each embodiment with another configuration. [Explanation of symbols]

[0076] 10...refrigeration unit, 11...first housing, 12...first heat exchanger, 13...first fan, 14...first fan motor, 20...second housing, 21...second heat exchanger, 22...second fan, 23...second fan motor, 24...compressor, 25...pressure reduction mechanism, 26...control device, 27...pressure detection element, 28...temperature detection element, 29...discharge element, 30, 31, 32, 33...piping, 1 00, 110, 120...Configuration example, 102...Rotating member, 112...Pipe structure, 122...Connection part, 103, 113, 123...Relief valve, 201...Compressor housing, 202...Suction part, 203...Compression part, 204...Discharge part, 205...Motor, 206...Lubricant, 207...Power line, 208...Power terminal part, 210...Inner wall part, B...Relief valve, d...Discharge direction, V...Target, W...Wall

Claims

1. A compressor that compresses a refrigerant; a discharge member that discharges refrigerant within the compressor in response to pressure inside the compressor; an orientation member that directs the direction in which the refrigerant is discharged by the discharge member to a predetermined direction within a range of configurable directions; A refrigeration cycle device comprising:

2. 2. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 1, wherein the directing member includes a rotating member for varying the release direction of the release member, the range of configurable directions is defined by a rotatable range of the rotating member, and the release direction of the refrigerant is configured to the predetermined direction by rotation of the rotating member.

3. 2. The refrigeration cycle apparatus of claim 1, wherein the orientation member is configured to be attachable after at least partial installation of the refrigeration cycle apparatus, the orientation member is one of a plurality of members each having a shape that, when attached, provides a direction within the range of configurable directions, and the orientation member has a shape that, when attached, causes the emission direction of the emission member to become the predetermined direction.

4. 2. The refrigeration cycle device of claim 1, wherein the orientation member is a plurality of connection parts to which the release member can be attached and which are arranged in a staggered direction in the circumferential direction of the compressor, the directions of the plurality of connection parts define a direction within the range of directions that can be configured by the release member, and the release direction of the release member is configured to be in the specified direction by attaching the release member to any one of the plurality of connection parts.

5. The compressor includes: A power supply terminal portion; an inner wall portion surrounding the periphery of the power supply terminal portion and the periphery of a portion communicating with the discharge member inside the compressor; The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 1 .

6. The compressor includes: a pressure detection element for detecting a pressure inside the compressor; a temperature detection element for detecting an internal temperature of the compressor; a discharge element provided at a portion communicating with the discharge member; 2. The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a control device for the compressor, the control device being configured to discharge the discharge element in response to determining that the pressure detected by the pressure detection element and the temperature detected by the temperature detection element satisfy a predetermined condition.

7. 2. The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the refrigerant is HFO-1123 or HFO-1132(E).

8. A method performed by a refrigeration cycle device, compressing a refrigerant by a compressor; discharging, in response to pressure inside the compressor, a discharge member, refrigerant within the compressor in a predetermined direction directed from within a range of directions configurable by a directing member; A method comprising:

9. A compressor body that compresses a refrigerant; a discharge member that discharges refrigerant within the compressor in response to pressure inside the compressor; an orientation member that directs the direction in which the refrigerant is discharged by the discharge member to a predetermined direction within a range of configurable directions; A compressor comprising:

10. A compressor for compressing a refrigerant, the compressor including a pressure detection element for detecting a pressure inside the compressor, a temperature detection element for detecting a temperature inside the compressor, and a discharge element provided at a predetermined location; a discharge member that discharges a refrigerant in the compressor in response to a pressure inside the compressor, the predetermined portion being a portion that communicates with the discharge member; a control device configured to cause the discharge element to discharge in response to determining that the pressure detected by the pressure detection element and the temperature detected by the temperature detection element satisfy a predetermined condition; A refrigeration cycle device comprising:

11. A method performed by a refrigeration cycle device, compressing a refrigerant by a compressor; detecting a pressure inside the compressor by a pressure detection element; detecting an internal temperature of the compressor by a temperature detection element; a step of discharging a refrigerant from a discharge element provided at a portion communicating with a discharge member that discharges the refrigerant in the compressor in response to the control device determining that the pressure detected by the pressure detection element and the temperature detected by the temperature detection element satisfy a predetermined condition, in response to the pressure inside the compressor; A method comprising:

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