Air handling unit

Abstract

To solve a problem that an air quantity of an air blower that prevents dew condensation water from scattering differs depending on a positional relation between a heat exchanger and the air blower.SOLUTION: An air handling unit 100 includes a heat exchanger 20, a drain pan 24, an air blower 30 and a control section 90. The drain pan 24 receives dew condensation water from the heat exchanger 20. The air blower 30 generates a flow of air passing through the heat exchanger 20. The drain pan 24 has an opening part 24f. The control section 90 sets an upper limit of an air quantity of the air blower 30 to a first air quantity when determining that the air blower 30 generates a flow of air flowing from a bent part 23c toward the opening part 24f on the basis of a positional relation between the heat exchanger 20 and the air blower 30, and sets the upper limit of the air quantity of the air blower 30 to a second air quantity when determining that the air blower 30 generates a flow of air flowing from the opening part 24f to the bent part 23c. The first air quantity is smaller than the second air quantity.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Regarding air handling units. [Background technology]

[0002] As shown in Patent Document 1 (U.S. Pat. No. 5,284,027), an air handling unit is known that includes a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between a refrigerant and air, a blower that generates an air flow that passes through the heat exchanger, and a drain pan that collects condensation water from the heat exchanger. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] In an air handling unit, there is a risk that condensation water may scatter due to the air flow generated by the blower, so it is necessary to set an upper limit on the air volume of the blower to prevent the condensation water from scattering. However, since the air volume of the blower at which condensation water does not scatter varies depending on the positional relationship between the heat exchanger and the blower, for example, if an upper limit on the air volume of the blower is set uniformly to match air handling units having a positional relationship between the heat exchanger and the blower that makes it easy for condensation water to scatter, there is a problem that air handling units having a positional relationship between the heat exchanger and the blower that makes it difficult for condensation water to scatter cannot fully demonstrate their capabilities. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] The air handling unit of the first aspect includes a heat exchanger, a drain pan, a blower, and a control unit. The heat exchanger has a plurality of flat tubes, a heat transfer fin, a first header, and a second header. The plurality of flat tubes have a first section and a second section sandwiched between a bent section of less than 180 degrees. The heat transfer fin is provided between the plurality of adjacent flat tubes. The first header is attached to an end portion of the plurality of flat tubes on the first section side. The second header is attached to an end portion of the plurality of flat tubes on the second section side. The drain pan receives condensed water from the heat exchanger. The blower generates an air flow passing through the heat exchanger. The drain pan is disposed on the first header and second header side. The drain pan has an opening. The opening allows the air flow generated by the blower to pass through. The control unit acquires a positional relationship between the heat exchanger and the blower. When the control unit determines based on the positional relationship that the blower generates an air flow that flows from the bent portion toward the opening, the control unit sets the upper limit of the air volume of the blower to a first air volume. When the control unit determines based on the positional relationship that the blower generates an air flow that flows from the opening toward the bent portion, the control unit sets the upper limit of the air volume of the blower to a second air volume. The first air volume is smaller than the second air volume.

[0005] In the air handling unit of the first aspect, when the control unit determines, based on the positional relationship, that the blower generates an air flow that flows from the bent portion toward the opening, it sets the upper limit of the air volume of the blower to a first air volume. When the control unit determines, based on the positional relationship, that the blower generates an air flow that flows from the opening toward the bent portion, it sets the upper limit of the air volume of the blower to a second air volume. The first air volume is smaller than the second air volume. As a result, the air handling unit can set an upper limit of the air volume of the blower that prevents condensation water from scattering and can fully demonstrate its capabilities for each positional relationship between the heat exchanger and the blower.

[0006] The air handling unit of a second aspect is the air handling unit of the first aspect, and the positional relationship is a first type. In the first type, the bending portion, the opening, and the blower are arranged in sequence in the vertical direction. When the positional relationship is the first type, the control unit determines that the blower generates an air flow that flows from the bending portion toward the opening.

[0007] With this configuration, the air handling unit of the second aspect can set an appropriate upper limit for the air volume of the blower when the positional relationship between the heat exchanger and the blower is of the first type.

[0008] The air handling unit of a third aspect is the air handling unit of the first aspect, and the positional relationship is a second type. In the second type, the blower, the bending portion, and the opening are arranged in sequence in the vertical direction. When the positional relationship is the second type, the control unit determines that the blower generates an air flow that flows from the opening toward the bending portion.

[0009] With this configuration, the air handling unit of the third aspect can set an appropriate upper limit for the air volume of the blower when the positional relationship between the heat exchanger and the blower is of the second type.

[0010] The air handling unit of a fourth aspect is the air handling unit of the first aspect, and the positional relationship is a third type. In the third type, the bending portion, the opening, and the blower are arranged in sequence in the horizontal direction. When the positional relationship is the third type, the control unit determines that the blower generates an air flow that flows from the bending portion toward the opening.

[0011] With such a configuration, the air handling unit of the fourth aspect can set an appropriate upper limit for the air volume of the blower when the positional relationship between the heat exchanger and the blower is of the third type.

[0012] An air handling unit according to a fifth aspect is the air handling unit according to the first aspect, in which the positional relationship is a fourth type. In the fourth type, the blower, the bending portion, and the opening are arranged in sequence in the horizontal direction. When the positional relationship is the fourth type, the control unit determines that the blower generates an air flow that flows from the opening toward the bending portion.

[0013] The air handling unit of the fifth aspect has such a configuration, and when the positional relationship between the heat exchanger and the blower is of the fourth type, it is possible to set an appropriate upper limit on the air volume of the blower.

[0014] An air handling unit according to a sixth aspect is the air handling unit according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, further comprising an input unit. The input unit allows a user to input the positional relationship. The control unit acquires the positional relationship via the input unit.

[0015] With such a configuration, the air handling unit of the sixth aspect can obtain a positional relationship through input from a user when installing the air handling unit.

[0016] An air handling unit according to a seventh aspect is the air handling unit according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, further comprising a sensor. The sensor detects the positional relationship. The control unit acquires the positional relationship using the sensor.

[0017] With such a configuration, the air handling unit of the seventh aspect can automatically obtain the positional relationship. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] Fig. 2 is a side view of the inside of the air handling unit as viewed from a first direction, Fig. 3 is a view showing a first type of positional relationship between a heat exchanger and a blower. [Diagram 2] FIG. 11 is a side view of the inside of the air handling unit as viewed from a third direction. [Diagram 3] FIG. [Figure 4] Fig. 4 is a side view of the heat exchanger as viewed from a first direction. Fig. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the drain pan. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a top view of the heat exchanger as viewed from a second direction. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a side view of the heat exchanger as viewed from a third direction. [Figure 7] FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. [Figure 9] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the drain pan as viewed from a first direction. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a second type of positional relationship between a heat exchanger and a blower. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a third type of positional relationship between the heat exchanger and the blower. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a fourth type of positional relationship between a heat exchanger and a blower. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0019] (1) Overall configuration of the air handling unit Air handling unit 100 includes casing 11, support member 12, heat exchanger 20, blower 30, drain pan 24, input unit 80, and control unit 90. There are four types of positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower 30. Below, air handling unit 101 in which the positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower 30 is of the first type will be mainly described.

[0020] 1 and 2, air handling unit 101 is installed upright so that the longitudinal direction of casing 11 is aligned vertically. The internal space of casing 11 is partitioned by support member 12 into heat exchange chamber 17 and air blowing chamber 18. Heat exchanger 20 is installed in heat exchange chamber 17. Air blowing device 30 is installed in air blowing chamber 18.

[0021] An intake port 13 is formed in the upper surface 11a of the casing 11. An exhaust port 14 is formed in the lower surface 11b of the casing 11. An intake duct 15 is connected to the intake port 13. An exhaust duct 16 is connected to the exhaust port 14. The intake port 13 is connected to the intake duct 15 and a heat exchange chamber 17. The exhaust port 14 is connected to the exhaust duct 16 and an air blowing chamber 18. The heat exchange chamber 17 communicates with the air blowing chamber 18.

[0022] Blower 30 generates an air flow passing through heat exchanger 20. Blower 30 has a centrifugal fan such as a sirocco fan, and a motor that drives the centrifugal fan. Blower 30 drives the centrifugal fan to generate an air flow that flows from suction port 13 through heat exchange chamber 17 and blower chamber 18 toward outlet 14. The air flows vertically downward through the internal space of casing 11 from suction port 13 toward outlet 14. When the air passes through heat exchange chamber 17, heat exchange occurs in heat exchanger 20. Air handling unit 101 draws air from suction port 13, and blows the air, whose temperature has been adjusted by heat exchange in heat exchanger 20, out of outlet 14.

[0023] (2) Detailed configuration of the air handling unit (2-1) Heat exchanger The heat exchanger 20 has a plurality of flat tubes 23, heat transfer fins 26, a first header 21, and a second header 22. The heat exchanger 20 constitutes a part of a refrigerant circuit that performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle.

[0024] (2-1-1) Multiple flat tubes As shown in Figs. 1 to 6, the flat tubes 23 are arranged in a line along a predetermined direction. Hereinafter, the direction in which the flat tubes 23 are arranged is referred to as a first direction D1. The first direction D1 is a horizontal direction. In Figs. 3, 5 to 6, the flat tubes 23 located in the center in the first direction D1 are omitted. The direction in which air flows through the internal space of the casing 11 is referred to as a second direction D2. The second direction D2 is a vertical downward direction. The direction perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 is referred to as a third direction D3. The third direction D3 is a horizontal direction. The third direction D3 is a direction in which the drain pan 24 extends when viewed from the first direction D1. A refrigerant that exchanges heat with the air passing through the heat exchange chamber 17 flows inside each of the flat tubes 23. A first header 21 and a second header 22 are attached to both ends of the flat tubes 23.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 4, the heat exchanger 20 has a configuration in which the first heat exchanger 40a and the second heat exchanger 40b are arranged along the second direction D2. The first heat exchanger 40a and the second heat exchanger 40b each have a plurality of flat tubes 23, one first header 21, and one second header 22. When viewed from the first direction D1, the first heat exchanger 40a is located outside the second heat exchanger 40b. In other words, the upper end of the first heat exchanger 40a is located higher than the upper end of the second heat exchanger 40b. The first heat exchanger 40a is connected to the second heat exchanger 40b via the refrigerant pipe 25.

[0026] Each of the flat tubes 23 has one first portion 23a and one second portion 23b, sandwiching one bent portion 23c of less than 180 degrees. As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the first portion 23a extends in a predetermined direction when viewed from the first direction D1. The second portion 23b extends in a predetermined direction different from the direction in which the first portion 23a extends when viewed from the first direction D1. As shown in FIG. 4, the bent portion 23c is bent so that the angles α and β between the direction in which the first portion 23a extends and the direction in which the second portion 23b extends when viewed from the first direction D1 are less than 180 degrees. The bent portion 23c may be bent so that the angles α and β are 90 degrees or less.

[0027] A first header 21 is attached to ends of the flat tubes 23 on the first portion 23a side. A second header 22 is attached to ends of the flat tubes 23 on the second portion 23b side. The flat tubes 23 are arranged such that the bent portions 23c are located above the first header 21 and the second header 22. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 4, the flat tubes 23 have a V-shape rotated 180° when viewed from the first direction D1.

[0028] The first portion 23a and the second portion 23b are flat multi-hole pipes having a plurality of passages through which the refrigerant passes. The plurality of passages in the first portion 23a are arranged side by side along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first portion 23a extends when viewed from the first direction D1. The plurality of passages in the second portion 23b are arranged side by side along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the second portion 23b extends when viewed from the first direction D1. The bent portion 23c is a flat multi-hole pipe partially curved so as to connect the plurality of passages in the first portion 23a and the plurality of passages in the second portion 23b, as shown in FIGS. 5 to 6.

[0029] 4 to 6, the first portion 23a and the second portion 23b are arranged such that their main surfaces are aligned with the second direction D2 and the third direction D3. The first portion 23a and the second portion 23b are arranged at a predetermined interval along the first direction D1 perpendicular to the main surfaces.

[0030] (2-1-2) Heat transfer fins The heat transfer fins 26 promote heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing inside the flat tubes 23 and the air flow generated by the blower 30. The heat transfer fins 26 are corrugated fins. The heat transfer fins 26 are made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 4, the heat transfer fin 26 is fixed to the first portion 23a and the second portion 23b between the flat tubes 23 adjacent to each other along the first direction D1. More specifically, the heat transfer fin 26 is provided between the first portions 23a adjacent to each other along the first direction D1. The heat transfer fin 26 is fixed to the first portion 23a by fixing the peaks of the corrugations to the main surfaces of the first portions 23a. The heat transfer fin 26 is also provided between the second portions 23b adjacent to each other along the first direction D1. The heat transfer fin 26 is fixed to the second portions 23b by fixing the peaks of the corrugations to the main surfaces of the second portions 23b.

[0032] (2-1-3) First and second headers The first header 21 and the second header 22 are attached to both ends of the flat tubes 23. Specifically, the first header 21 is attached to the ends of the flat tubes 23 on the first portion 23a side. The second header 22 is attached to the ends of the flat tubes 23 on the second portion 23b side. The first header 21 and the second header 22 are arranged to extend in a first direction D1. The first header 21 and the second header 22 are arranged above a drain pan 24. The first header 21 and the second header 22 are connected to an external refrigerant circuit via a refrigerant pipe 25.

[0033] (2-2) Drain pan The drain pan 24 is disposed on the first header 21 and the second header 22 side. Specifically, the drain pan 24 is disposed below the first header 21 and the second header 22. The drain pan 24 receives condensed water from the heat exchanger 20. Specifically, the drain pan 24 receives condensed water from the flat tubes 23, the first header 21, and the second header 22. The condensed water is water that is generated on the surfaces of the flat tubes 23, the first header 21, and the second header 22 due to heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing inside the flat tubes 23 and the air passing through the heat exchange chamber 17. The generated condensed water flows down the surfaces of the flat tubes 23, the first header 21, and the second header 22 due to its own weight, and is received by the drain pan 24. The drain pan 24 is fixed to the support member 12.

[0034] 7 to 9, the drain pan 24 has a first wall 24a, a second wall 24b, a receiving portion 24c, and a drain port 24d. When viewed from the second direction D2, the drain pan 24 has a substantially rectangular shape.

[0035] The first wall 24a surrounds an opening 24f through which the air flowing through the heat exchange chamber 17 in the second direction D2 passes. In other words, the drain pan 24 has an opening 24f through which the air flow generated by the blower 30 passes. The opening 24f is located at the center of the drain pan 24 when the drain pan 24 is viewed from the second direction D2. The opening 24f has a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from the second direction D2. The air flowing through the heat exchange chamber 17 in the second direction D2 passes through the opening 24f and flows into the blower chamber 18. The second wall 24b is located outside the first wall 24a when the drain pan 24 is viewed from the second direction D2.

[0036] The receiving portion 24c connects the lower end of the first wall 24a and the lower end of the second wall 24b. The receiving portion 24c corresponds to the bottom of the drain pan 24. The receiving portion 24c is disposed below the first header 21 and the second header 22. The space surrounded by the first wall 24a, the second wall 24b, and the receiving portion 24c is a space for receiving condensed water and temporarily storing it as drain water. The drain outlet 24d is formed in the second wall 24b. The drain outlet 24d is formed in a corner of the rectangular shape of the drain pan 24 when the drain pan 24 is viewed from the second direction D2. The drain outlet 24d is a hole for discharging drain water to the outside of the drain pan 24.

[0037] 9, the receiving portion 24c has a first surface 24e which is an upper surface that slopes downward from the first wall 24a to the second wall 24b. In other words, when the drain pan 24 is viewed from the second direction D2, the receiving portion 24c has a portion where the height position of the first surface 24e decreases from the center side where the first wall 24a is located to the outside where the second wall 24b is located. The first surface 24e corresponds to the bottom surface of the drain pan 24. The first surface 24e is the surface that comes into contact with the drain water.

[0038] It is sufficient that the first surface 24e is inclined at least between the first wall 24a extending along the first direction D1 and the second wall 24b extending along the first direction D1. In other words, it is sufficient that at least the first surface 24e located below the first header 21 and the second header 22 is inclined downward in the third direction D3 from the first wall 24a toward the second wall 24b.

[0039] 7 and 8, the receiving portion 24c has a protrusion 24j protruding from the first surface 24e. The protrusion 24j supports the first header 21 and the second header 22, as shown in FIG.

[0040] (2-3) Input section The input unit 80 is installed, for example, on the outer surface of the casing 11. The input unit 80 allows a user to input the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30. There are four types of positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30.

[0041] The input unit 80 is, for example, a touch panel. The input unit 80 displays, for example, an icon indicating a first type (e.g., FIG. 1), an icon indicating a second type (e.g., FIG. 10), an icon indicating a third type (e.g., FIG. 11), and an icon indicating a fourth type (e.g., FIG. 12), and allows the user to select one of the icons to input the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30.

[0042] (2-3-1) First Type In the first type, bent portion 23c, opening 24f, and blower 30 are arranged in sequence in the vertical direction. The positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower 30 in air handling unit 101 shown in Fig. 1 is the first type. For example, when installing air handling unit 101, a user inputs the first type into input unit 80 as the positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower 30.

[0043] (2-3-2) Second Type In the second type, blower 30, bent portion 23c, and opening 24f are arranged in sequence in the vertical direction. The positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower 30 in air handling unit 102 shown in Fig. 10 is of the second type. For example, when installing air handling unit 102, a user inputs the second type into input portion 80 as the positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower 30.

[0044] 10, air handling unit 102 is installed upright so that the longitudinal direction of casing 11 is aligned vertically. Air handling unit 102 is configured by switching the positions of heat exchange chamber 17 in which heat exchanger 20 is installed and air blowing chamber 18 in which air blower 30 is installed in air handling unit 101.

[0045] An air outlet 14 is formed in the upper surface 11a of the casing 11. An air inlet 13 is formed in the lower surface 11b of the casing 11. An air inlet 13 is connected to an air inlet duct 15. An air outlet 14 is connected to an air outlet duct 16. The air inlet 13 is connected to the air inlet duct 15 and a heat exchange chamber 17. The air outlet 14 is connected to the air outlet duct 16 and an air blower chamber 18.

[0046] Blower device 30 drives a centrifugal fan to generate an air flow that flows from suction port 13 through heat exchange chamber 17 and blower chamber 18 toward outlet 14. The air flows vertically upward through the internal space of casing 11 from suction port 13 toward outlet 14. When the air passes through heat exchange chamber 17, heat is exchanged by heat exchanger 20. Air handling unit 102 draws in air from suction port 13, and blows out from outlet 14 the air whose temperature has been adjusted by heat exchange by heat exchanger 20.

[0047] (2-3-3) Third Type In the third type, bent portion 23c, opening 24f, and blower 30 are arranged in sequence in the horizontal direction. The positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower 30 in air handling unit 103 shown in Fig. 11 is of the third type. For example, when installing air handling unit 103, a user inputs the third type into input unit 80 as the positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower 30.

[0048] 11, air handling unit 103 is installed horizontally so that the longitudinal direction of casing 11 is along the horizontal direction. Air handling unit 103 is air handling unit 101 rotated by 90° when viewed from first direction D1.

[0049] An intake port 13 is formed on one surface 11a in the longitudinal direction of the casing 11. An exhaust port 14 is formed on the other surface 11b in the longitudinal direction of the casing 11. An intake duct 15 is connected to the intake port 13. An exhaust duct 16 is connected to the exhaust port 14. The intake port 13 is connected to the intake duct 15 and a heat exchange chamber 17. The exhaust port 14 is connected to the exhaust duct 16 and an air chamber 18.

[0050] Blower device 30 drives a centrifugal fan to generate an air flow that flows from suction port 13 toward outlet port 14 via heat exchange chamber 17 and blower chamber 18. The air flows horizontally in the internal space of casing 11 from suction port 13 toward outlet port 14. When the air passes through heat exchange chamber 17, heat is exchanged by heat exchanger 20. Air handling unit 103 draws in air from suction port 13, and blows out from outlet port 14 the air whose temperature has been adjusted by heat exchange by heat exchanger 20.

[0051] 11, in air handling unit 103, a second drain pan 27 different from drain pan 24 is disposed below heat exchanger 20. Second drain pan 27 receives condensation water that drops from the surfaces of the plurality of flat tubes 23, first header 21, and second header 22 due to their own weight.

[0052] (2-3-4) Fourth Type In the fourth type, blower 30, bent portion 23c, and opening 24f are arranged in sequence in the horizontal direction. The positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower 30 in air handling unit 104 shown in Fig. 12 is the fourth type. For example, when installing air handling unit 104, a user inputs the fourth type into input unit 80 as the positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower 30.

[0053] 12, air handling unit 104 is installed horizontally so that the longitudinal direction of casing 11 is along the horizontal direction. Air handling unit 104 is configured by switching the positions of heat exchange chamber 17 in which heat exchanger 20 is installed and air blowing chamber 18 in which air blower 30 is installed in air handling unit 103.

[0054] An air outlet 14 is formed on one surface 11a of the casing 11 in the longitudinal direction. An air inlet 13 is formed on the other surface 11b of the casing 11 in the longitudinal direction. An air inlet 13 is connected to an air inlet duct 15. An air outlet 14 is connected to an air outlet duct 16. An air inlet 13 is connected to the air inlet duct 15 and a heat exchange chamber 17. An air outlet 14 is connected to the air outlet duct 16 and an air blower chamber 18.

[0055] Blower device 30 drives a centrifugal fan to generate an air flow that flows from suction port 13 toward outlet port 14 via heat exchange chamber 17 and blower chamber 18. The air flows horizontally in the internal space of casing 11 from suction port 13 toward outlet port 14. When the air passes through heat exchange chamber 17, heat is exchanged by heat exchanger 20. Air handling unit 104 draws in air from suction port 13, and blows out from outlet port 14 the air whose temperature has been adjusted by heat exchange by heat exchanger 20.

[0056] 12, in air handling unit 104, a second drain pan 27 different from drain pan 24 is disposed below heat exchanger 20. Second drain pan 27 receives condensation water that drops from the surfaces of the plurality of flat tubes 23, first header 21, and second header 22 due to their own weight.

[0057] (2-4) Control section Control unit 90 is installed inside casing 11. Control unit 90 controls the operation of each part constituting air handling unit 101.

[0058] The control unit 90 is electrically connected to various devices in the air handling unit 101, including the centrifugal fan of the blower 30, so as to be able to exchange control signals and information with them. The control unit 90 is also connected to various sensors provided in the air handling unit 101 so as to be able to communicate with them.

[0059] Control unit 90 has a control arithmetic device and a storage device. The control arithmetic device is a processor such as a CPU or a GPU. The storage device is a storage medium such as a RAM, a ROM, or a flash memory. The control arithmetic device reads out a program stored in the storage device and performs a predetermined arithmetic process in accordance with the program, thereby controlling the operation of each part constituting air handling unit 101. The control arithmetic device can also write the results of calculations to the storage device and read out information stored in the storage device in accordance with the program.

[0060] The control unit 90 sets the air volume of the blower device 30. The air volume of the blower device 30 is set to, for example, any one of "strong", "medium", and "weak".

[0061] The control unit 90 acquires the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30 via the input unit 80 .

[0062] When the control unit 90 determines that the blower device 30 generates an air flow that flows from the bent portion 23c toward the opening 24f based on the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30, the control unit 90 sets the upper limit of the air volume of the blower device 30 to the first air volume. Specifically, when the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30 is the first type or the third type, the control unit 90 determines that the blower device 30 generates an air flow that flows from the bent portion 23c toward the opening 24f, and sets the upper limit of the air volume of the blower device 30 to the first air volume.

[0063] When the control unit 90 determines, based on the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30, that the blower device 30 generates an air flow that flows from the opening 24f toward the bent portion 23c, the control unit 90 sets the upper limit of the air volume of the blower device 30 to the second air volume. Specifically, when the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30 is the second type or the fourth type, the control unit 90 determines that the blower device 30 generates an air flow that flows from the opening 24f toward the bent portion 23c, and sets the upper limit of the air volume of the blower device 30 to the second air volume.

[0064] The first air volume is smaller than the second air volume. For example, the first air volume is "medium" and the second air volume is "strong". When the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower 30 is the first type, as shown in FIG. 1, the air flow generated by the blower 30 collides with the condensed water stored in the receiving portion 24c of the drain pan 24, so that the condensed water is relatively easily scattered. Therefore, when the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower 30 is the first type, the control unit 90 sets the upper limit of the air volume of the blower 30 to the first air volume. When the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower 30 is the third type, as shown in FIG. 11, the air flow generated by the blower 30 collides with the condensed water attached to the lower second portion 23b, so that the condensed water is relatively easily scattered. Therefore, when the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30 is of the third type, the control unit 90 sets the upper limit of the air volume of the blower device 30 to the first air volume.

[0065] (3) Features (3-1) Conventionally, there is known an air handling unit that includes a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between a refrigerant and air, a blower that generates an air flow that passes through the heat exchanger, and a drain pan that collects condensation water from the heat exchanger.

[0066] In an air handling unit, there is a risk that condensation water may scatter due to the air flow generated by the blower, so it is necessary to set an upper limit on the air volume of the blower to prevent the condensation water from scattering. However, since the air volume of the blower at which condensation water does not scatter varies depending on the positional relationship between the heat exchanger and the blower, for example, if an upper limit on the air volume of the blower is set uniformly to match air handling units having a positional relationship between the heat exchanger and the blower that makes it easy for condensation water to scatter, there is a problem that air handling units having a positional relationship between the heat exchanger and the blower that makes it difficult for condensation water to scatter cannot fully demonstrate their capabilities.

[0067] The air handling unit 100 includes a heat exchanger 20, a drain pan 24, a blower 30, and a control unit 90. The heat exchanger 20 includes a plurality of flat tubes 23, a heat transfer fin 26, a first header 21, and a second header 22. The plurality of flat tubes 23 include a first portion 23a and a second portion 23b sandwiching a bent portion 23c of less than 180 degrees. The heat transfer fin 26 is provided between the plurality of adjacent flat tubes 23. The first header 21 is attached to the end of the plurality of flat tubes 23 on the first portion 23a side. The second header 22 is attached to the end of the plurality of flat tubes 23 on the second portion 23b side. The drain pan 24 receives condensed water from the heat exchanger 20. The blower 30 generates a flow of air passing through the heat exchanger 20. The drain pan 24 is disposed on the first header 21 and second header 22 side. The drain pan 24 has an opening 24f. The opening 24f allows the air flow generated by the blower 30 to pass through. The control unit 90 acquires the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower 30. When the control unit 90 determines based on the positional relationship that the blower 30 generates an air flow that flows from the bent portion 23c toward the opening 24f, the control unit 90 sets the upper limit of the air volume of the blower 30 to a first air volume. When the control unit 90 determines based on the positional relationship that the blower 30 generates an air flow that flows from the opening 24f toward the bent portion 23c, the control unit 90 sets the upper limit of the air volume of the blower 30 to a second air volume. The first air volume is smaller than the second air volume.

[0068] In air handling unit 100, when control unit 90 determines based on the positional relationship that blower device 30 generates an air flow that flows from bent portion 23c toward opening 24f, it sets the upper limit of the air volume of blower device 30 to a first air volume. When control unit 90 determines based on the positional relationship that blower device 30 generates an air flow that flows from opening 24f toward bent portion 23c, it sets the upper limit of the air volume of blower device 30 to a second air volume. The first air volume is smaller than the second air volume. As a result, air handling unit 100 can set the upper limit of the air volume of blower device 30 that prevents condensation water from scattering and allows the blower device 30 to fully demonstrate its capabilities for each positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower device 30.

[0069] (3-2) In air handling unit 101, the positional relationship is a first type. In the first type, bent portion 23c, opening 24f, and blower 30 are arranged in sequence in the vertical direction. When the positional relationship is the first type, control unit 90 determines that blower 30 generates an air flow that flows from bent portion 23c toward opening 24f.

[0070] As a result, air handling unit 101 can set an appropriate upper limit for the air volume of blower device 30 when the positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower device 30 is of the first type.

[0071] (3-3) In air handling unit 102, the positional relationship is the second type. In the second type, blower 30, bent portion 23c, and opening 24f are arranged in sequence in the vertical direction. When the positional relationship is the second type, control unit 90 determines that blower 30 generates an air flow that flows from opening 24f toward bent portion 23c.

[0072] As a result, air handling unit 102 can set an appropriate upper limit for the air volume of blower device 30 when the positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower device 30 is of the second type.

[0073] (3-4) In air handling unit 103, the positional relationship is a third type. In the third type, bent portion 23c, opening 24f, and blower 30 are arranged in sequence in the horizontal direction. When the positional relationship is the third type, control unit 90 determines that blower 30 generates an air flow that flows from bent portion 23c toward opening 24f.

[0074] As a result, air handling unit 103 can set an appropriate upper limit for the air volume of blower device 30 when the positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower device 30 is of the third type.

[0075] (3-5) In air handling unit 104, the positional relationship is a fourth type. In the fourth type, blower 30, bent portion 23c, and opening 24f are arranged in sequence in the horizontal direction. When the positional relationship is the fourth type, control unit 90 determines that blower 30 generates an air flow that flows from opening 24f toward bent portion 23c.

[0076] As a result, air handling unit 104 can set an appropriate upper limit for the air volume of blower device 30 when the positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower device 30 is of the fourth type.

[0077] (3-6) Air handling unit 100 further includes an input unit 80. Input unit 80 allows a user to input a positional relationship. Control unit 90 acquires the positional relationship via input unit 80.

[0078] As a result, when air handling unit 100 is installed, it is possible to obtain the positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower device 30 through input from the user.

[0079] (4) Variations (4-1) Variation 1A In this embodiment, control unit 90 acquires the positional relationship via input unit 80. However, air handling unit 100 may include a sensor that detects the positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower 30, and control unit 90 may acquire the positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower 30 using the sensor.

[0080] As a result, air handling unit 100 can automatically obtain the positional relationship between heat exchanger 20 and blower device 30.

[0081] For example, a wind direction sensor that detects the wind direction is attached to the surface of the first wall 24a on the opening 24f side shown in FIG. 3. When the wind direction sensor detects an air flow flowing vertically from the bent portion 23c toward the opening 24f, the control unit 90 acquires the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30 as a first type. When the wind direction sensor detects an air flow flowing vertically from the opening 24f toward the bent portion 23c, the control unit 90 acquires the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30 as a second type. When the wind direction sensor detects an air flow flowing horizontally from the bent portion 23c toward the opening 24f, the control unit 90 acquires the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30 as a third type. When the airflow direction sensor detects air flowing horizontally from the opening 24f toward the bent portion 23c, the control unit 90 acquires the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30 as a fourth type.

[0082] In addition, when the airflow direction sensor detects an airflow flowing vertically from the bent portion 23c toward the opening 24f, the control unit 90 may directly determine that the airflow device 30 generates an airflow flowing from the bent portion 23c toward the opening 24f without acquiring the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the airflow device 30, and set the upper limit of the airflow of the airflow device 30 to the first airflow, without acquiring the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the airflow device 30. In the case where the airflow direction sensor detects an airflow flowing vertically from the opening 24f toward the bent portion 23c, the control unit 90 may directly determine that the airflow device 30 generates an airflow flowing from the opening 24f toward the bent portion 23c without acquiring the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the airflow device 30, and set the upper limit of the airflow of the airflow device 30 to the second airflow. When the airflow direction sensor detects an airflow flowing horizontally from the bent portion 23c toward the opening 24f, the control unit 90 may directly determine that the airflow device 30 generates an airflow flowing from the bent portion 23c toward the opening 24f without acquiring the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the airflow device 30, and set the upper limit of the airflow of the airflow device 30 to the first airflow, without acquiring the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the airflow device 30. When the airflow direction sensor detects an airflow flowing horizontally from the opening 24f toward the bent portion 23c, the control unit 90 may directly determine that the airflow device 30 generates an airflow flowing from the opening 24f toward the bent portion 23c without acquiring the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the airflow device 30, and set the upper limit of the airflow of the airflow device 30 to the second airflow.

[0083] (4-2) Variation 1B In this embodiment, when the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30 is the first type or the third type, the control unit 90 sets the upper limit of the air volume of the blower device 30 to the same first air volume.

[0084] However, the control unit 90 may set the upper limit of the air volume of the blower device 30 to the third air volume when the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30 is the first type, and may set the upper limit of the air volume of the blower device 30 to the fourth air volume when the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30 is the third type. In other words, the control unit 90 may set the upper limit of the air volume of the blower device 30 in more detail, dividing the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30 into the first type and the third type. The third air volume and the fourth air volume are smaller than the second air volume. For example, the third air volume is "weak" and the fourth air volume is "medium".

[0085] Similarly, the control unit 90 may further finely set the upper limit of the air volume of the blower device 30 by dividing the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30 into a case where the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30 is a second type and a case where the positional relationship between the heat exchanger 20 and the blower device 30 is a fourth type.

[0086] (4-3) Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0087] 20 Heat exchanger 21 First Header 22 Second Header 23 Multiple flat tubes 23a Part 1 23b Part 2 23c Bending part 24 Drain pan 24f opening 26 Heat transfer fin 30 Blower 90 Control section 80 Input section 100~104 Air handling unit [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0088] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Pat. No. 5,284,027

Claims

1. a heat exchanger (20) including: a plurality of flat tubes (23) each having a first portion (23a) and a second portion (23b) sandwiched between them by a bent portion (23c) of less than 180 degrees; heat transfer fins (26) provided between adjacent flat tubes; a first header (21) attached to ends of the plurality of flat tubes on the first portion side; and a second header (22) attached to ends of the plurality of flat tubes on the second portion side; A drain pan (24) for receiving condensation water from the heat exchanger; A blower (30) for generating an air flow passing through the heat exchanger; A control unit (90); Equipped with The drain pan is Located on the first header and the second header side, An opening (24f) for passing the air flow generated by the blower, The control unit is Acquire a positional relationship between the heat exchanger and the blower device; When it is determined based on the positional relationship that the air blowing device generates an air flow that flows from the bent portion toward the opening, an upper limit of an air volume of the air blowing device is set to a first air volume; When it is determined based on the positional relationship that the air blowing device generates an air flow that flows from the opening toward the bent portion, an upper limit of an air volume of the air blowing device is set to a second air volume; The first air flow rate is smaller than the second air flow rate. An air handling unit (100).

2. The positional relationship is a first type in which the bent portion, the opening, and the blower are arranged in sequence in a vertical direction. When the positional relationship is the first type, the control unit determines that the blower device generates an air flow that flows from the bent portion toward the opening.

2. An air handling unit (101) according to claim 1.

3. the positional relationship is a second type in which the blower device, the bending portion, and the opening portion are arranged in sequence in a vertical direction; When the positional relationship is the second type, the control unit determines that the blower device generates an air flow that flows from the opening toward the bent portion. The air handling unit (102) of claim 1.

4. the positional relationship is a third type in which the bending portion, the opening, and the blower are arranged in sequence in a horizontal direction; When the positional relationship is the third type, the control unit determines that the blower device generates an air flow that flows from the bent portion toward the opening.

2. The air handling unit (103) of claim 1.

5. the positional relationship is a fourth type in which the blower device, the bending portion, and the opening portion are arranged in sequence in a horizontal direction; When the positional relationship is the fourth type, the control unit determines that the blower device generates an air flow that flows from the opening toward the bent portion. The air handling unit (104) of claim 1.

6. an input unit (80) for allowing a user to input the positional relationship; Further equipped with The control unit acquires the positional relationship via the input unit. An air handling unit (100) according to any one of the preceding claims.

7. a sensor for detecting the positional relationship; Further equipped with The control unit acquires the positional relationship by using the sensor. An air handling unit (100) according to any one of the preceding claims.

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