UV ray irradiation unit, and air conditioner

The ultraviolet irradiation unit addresses misalignment issues by using a tapered lens support and positioning mechanisms, ensuring effective bacterial and viral inactivation within air conditioning systems.

JP2025154800APending Publication Date: 2025-10-10DAIKIN INDUSTRIES LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024057993
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-03-29
Publication Date
2025-10-10

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing ultraviolet irradiation devices face misalignment issues between the lens and light source, leading to reduced effectiveness in inactivating bacteria and viruses.

Method used

The ultraviolet irradiation unit incorporates a lens support portion with a tapered cross-sectional area and a positioning mechanism that engages with the substrate, along with a reflector positioned by a separate mechanism, ensuring precise alignment and protection from environmental factors.

Benefits of technology

This configuration prevents misalignment, enhances the focusing of ultraviolet light, and effectively inactivates bacteria and viruses within the air conditioning system.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

To suppress positional deviation of a lens relative to a light source.SOLUTION: An ultraviolet irradiation unit includes a light source (61) that emits ultraviolet rays, a substrate (62) to which the light source (61) is fixed, a lens (631) positioned opposite the light source (61), a lens member (63) including a lens support section (632) fixed to the first fixing member fixed to the substrate (62) or to a first fixing member attached to the substrate (62) and supporting the lens (631), and a first positioning mechanism (66) that positions the lens support section (632) relative to the substrate (62). The first positioning mechanism (66) includes a plurality of first engagement parts (66a) arranged on the substrate (62) or the first fixing member and a plurality of second engagement parts (66b) arranged on the lens support section (632), wherein each of the plurality of first engagement parts (66a) engages with one of the plurality of second engagement parts (66b).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an ultraviolet irradiation unit and an air conditioning apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an ultraviolet irradiation device. The ultraviolet irradiation device of Patent Document 1 includes an ultraviolet light-emitting diode that emits ultraviolet light, a lens that converts the distribution of the ultraviolet light emitted from the ultraviolet light-emitting diode into parallel light, and a reflecting member having a flat reflective surface that specularly reflects the ultraviolet light, all of which are arranged in this order on the optical axis of the ultraviolet light emitted by the ultraviolet light-emitting diode. The ultraviolet irradiation device of Patent Document 1 irradiates the interior of an air conditioner indoor unit with ultraviolet light to inactivate bacteria and viruses in the air inside the air conditioner indoor unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-160292 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, if the lens is misaligned with respect to the ultraviolet light-emitting diode (light source), the light cannot be effectively focused on the object to be irradiated, reducing the effectiveness of inactivating bacteria and viruses in the air.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to suppress misalignment of the lens relative to the light source. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The first aspect relates to an ultraviolet irradiation unit. The ultraviolet irradiation unit includes a light source (61) that irradiates ultraviolet light, a substrate (62) to which the light source (61) is fixed, a lens (631) arranged opposite the light source (61), a lens member (63) including a lens support portion (632) fixed to the substrate (62) or a first fixing member fixed to the substrate (62) and supporting the lens (631), and a first positioning mechanism (66) that positions the lens support portion (632) relative to the substrate (62), the first positioning mechanism (66) including a plurality of first engagement portions (66a) arranged on the substrate (62) or the first fixing member and a plurality of second engagement portions (66b) arranged on the lens support portion (632), and the plurality of first engagement portions (66a) engage with the plurality of second engagement portions (66b), respectively.

[0007] In the first aspect, it is possible to prevent the lens (631) from being misaligned with respect to the light source (61).

[0008] In the second mode, the cross-sectional area of ​​the space (SA) inside the lens support portion (632) in the first mode is tapered.

[0009] In the second embodiment, the lens member (63) can be easily manufactured.

[0010] In the third aspect, in the first or second aspect, the space (SB) between the lens member (63) and the substrate (62) is sealed, and the light source (61) is disposed in the space (SB).

[0011] In the third embodiment, the light source (61) can be protected from suspended particles, humidity, etc. in the atmosphere.

[0012] A fourth aspect is any one of the first to third aspects, further comprising a reflector (64) fixed to the substrate (62) or a second fixing member fixed to the substrate (62) and reflecting ultraviolet light from the light source (61), and a second positioning mechanism (67) for positioning the reflector (64) relative to the substrate (62).

[0013] In the fourth aspect, it is possible to prevent the reflector (64) from being misaligned with respect to the light source (61).

[0014] In a fifth aspect, in the fourth aspect, the second positioning mechanism (67) includes a plurality of third engagement portions (67a) arranged on the substrate (62) or the second fixing member, and a plurality of fourth engagement portions (67b) arranged on the reflector (64), and the plurality of third engagement portions (67a) respectively engage with the plurality of fourth engagement portions (67b).

[0015] In the fifth aspect, the reflector (64) can be stably positioned at a plurality of locations.

[0016] In a sixth aspect, in the fifth aspect, the lens member (63) is disposed inside the reflector (64).

[0017] In the sixth embodiment, ultraviolet light leaking from the lens support portion (632) can be reflected by the reflector (64).

[0018] A seventh aspect is any one of the fourth to sixth aspects, wherein the first positioning mechanism (66) and the second positioning mechanism (67) have different shapes or different dimensions.

[0019] In the seventh aspect, it is possible to prevent the lens member (63) and the reflector (64) from being positioned using an incorrect positioning mechanism out of the first positioning mechanism (66) and the second positioning mechanism (67).

[0020] An eighth aspect is an ultraviolet irradiation unit according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, in any one of the first to sixth aspects, when a is the length of the lens support portion (632) in the opposing direction (Z) of the light source (61) and the lens (631), α is the distance from the substrate (62) to the light emitting surface of the light source (61), L is the distance from the light source (61) to the object (70) to be irradiated with ultraviolet light, and X is the diameter of the light emitting surface or the length of one side of the light emitting surface, the relationship of the following equation (1) holds.

[0021] (Number 1) LX / (70+X)+α≦a≦LX / (20+X)+α

[0022] In the eighth aspect, it is possible to generate a paraxial image plane whose width in a predetermined direction is 20 nm or more and 70 mm or less on the reflecting surface of the object to be irradiated with ultraviolet light.

[0023] A ninth aspect is any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein an end portion (632a) of the lens support portion (632) is located at an edge portion (631a) of the lenses (631) (631).

[0024] In the ninth embodiment, the end of the lens support portion (632) can function as the lens (631).

[0025] A tenth aspect is directed to an air conditioner. The air conditioner includes the ultraviolet irradiation unit according to any one of the first to ninth aspects and a casing (20a, 31) of an indoor unit (30) or an outdoor unit (20), and the ultraviolet irradiation unit is disposed inside the casing (20a, 31).

[0026] In the tenth aspect, it is possible to prevent the lens (631) from being misaligned with respect to the light source (61). [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a piping diagram of an air conditioning apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the appearance of the air conditioner. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a view of the front first heat exchange section as seen from the first outflow surface side. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the ultraviolet irradiation unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the substrate. [Figure 7] 7(a) and 7(b) are perspective views of the lens member. [Figure 8] Figure 8(a) is a plan view of the reflector, and Figure 8(b) is a bottom view of the reflector. [Figure 9] Figure 9(a) is a perspective view of the first part of the reflector, Figure 9(b) is a front view of the first part of the reflector, and Figure 9(c) is a side view of the first part of the reflector. [Figure 10] Figure 10(a) is a perspective view of the second part of the reflector, Figure 10(b) is a front view of the second part of the reflector, and Figure 10(c) is a side view of the second part of the reflector. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a joint between a lens and a lens support. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the distances between the light source, the lens, and the object to be illuminated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure. Since the drawings are intended to conceptually explain the present disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary to facilitate understanding.

[0029] (1) Overview of air conditioning equipment The ultraviolet irradiation unit 60 is applied to an air conditioner 10. The air conditioner 10 conditions the air in an indoor space I, which is a target space. The air conditioner 10 adjusts the temperature of the indoor air.

[0030] As shown in Fig. 1, the air conditioner (10) has an outdoor unit (20) (outdoor unit), an indoor unit (30) (indoor unit), a first connecting pipe (12), and a second connecting pipe (13). The outdoor unit (20) and the indoor unit (30) are connected to each other via the first connecting pipe (12) and the second connecting pipe (13), thereby forming a refrigerant circuit (11). The refrigerant circuit (11) performs a refrigeration cycle by circulating a refrigerant.

[0031] The outdoor unit (20) is installed outdoors. The outdoor unit (20) has an outdoor casing (20a) and outdoor elements housed in the outdoor casing (20a). The outdoor elements include a compressor (21), an outdoor heat exchanger (22), an expansion valve (23), a four-way selector valve (24), and an outdoor fan (25). The compressor (21) compresses the refrigerant it draws in and discharges the compressed refrigerant. The outdoor heat exchanger (22) exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing therethrough and outdoor air transported by the outdoor fan (25). The expansion valve (23) reduces the pressure of the refrigerant. The four-way selector valve (24) switches the flow of the refrigerant between cooling operation and heating operation. In cooling operation, the four-way selector valve (24) is in a first state (the state indicated by the dashed line in FIG. 1 ), and the refrigerant flows in the direction of the dashed arrow. In the heating operation, the four-way selector valve (24) is in the second state (the state indicated by the solid line in FIG. 1), and the refrigerant flows in the direction indicated by the solid arrow.

[0032] (2) Indoor unit configuration The configuration of the indoor unit (30) will be described with reference to Figures 2 to 4. In the following description, terms such as "front," "rear," "right," "left," "upper," and "lower" are based on the directions indicated by the arrows in Figures 2 and 3.

[0033] The indoor unit (30) is installed in the indoor space (I). The indoor unit (30) of this embodiment is a wall-mounted indoor air conditioner installed on a wall of the indoor space (I). The indoor unit (30) has a casing (31) and indoor elements housed in the casing (31). The indoor elements include an air filter (41), an indoor heat exchanger (50), an indoor fan (42), a drain pan (43), and a flap (44).

[0034] (2-1) Casing The casing (31) constitutes a flow path forming member that forms the air flow path (34). The casing (31) is formed in a horizontally elongated hollow shape. The longitudinal direction of the casing (31) corresponds to the left-right direction.

[0035] The casing (31) is formed with an inlet (32) and an outlet (33). The inlet (32) is an opening for taking air from the indoor space (I) into the air flow path (34). The outlet (33) is an opening for blowing air from the air flow path (34) into the indoor space (I). The air flow path (34) is formed inside the casing (31) from the inlet (32) to the outlet (33).

[0036] (2-2) Air filter The air filter (41) is disposed in the air flow path (34) upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (50). The air filter (41) is disposed along the air inlet (32) and on the far side of the air inlet (32). The air filter (41) is a mesh member. The air filter (41) collects dust in the air sucked through the air inlet (32).

[0037] (2-3) Indoor heat exchanger The indoor heat exchanger (50) is disposed in the air flow path (34) upstream of the indoor fan (42). The indoor heat exchanger (50) is a fin-and-tube heat exchanger. The indoor heat exchanger (50) exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing therethrough and the indoor air transported by the indoor fan (42).

[0038] The indoor heat exchanger (50) has a plurality of fins (51) and a heat transfer tube (52) passing through the plurality of fins (51). The fins (51) are formed in the shape of a substantially rectangular plate. The fins (51) are made of, for example, aluminum.

[0039] The fins (51) are arranged in a first direction so as to be parallel to one another in the thickness direction of the fins. The heat transfer tube (52) has a U-shaped portion (52a) and a straight portion (52b). The straight portion (52b) penetrates the fins (51) in the thickness direction. The extending direction of the straight portion (52b) corresponds to the first direction.

[0040] (2-4) Indoor fan, drain pan, and flap The indoor fan (42) is an example of a fan. The indoor fan (42) is a cross-flow fan. The indoor fan (42) is driven to rotate by a fan motor. The direction of the rotation axis of the indoor fan (42) corresponds to the first direction. In other words, the indoor fan (42) has an outer shape whose longitudinal direction is the first direction.

[0041] The drain pan (43) is disposed below the indoor heat exchanger (50). The drain pan (43) is a tray that receives water generated in the casing (31). The drain pan (43) receives condensation water generated on the surface of the indoor heat exchanger (50).

[0042] The flap (44) constitutes an airflow direction adjusting unit that adjusts the direction of the blown air. The flap (44) adjusts the vertical direction of the blown air. The flap (44) may also adjust the horizontal direction of the blown air.

[0043] (3) Ultraviolet irradiation unit As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the air conditioner (10) includes an ultraviolet irradiation unit (60). The ultraviolet irradiation unit (60) is disposed in the air flow path (34) of the indoor unit (30). The ultraviolet irradiation unit (60) forms an ultraviolet irradiation region (R) in the air flow path (34). The ultraviolet irradiation unit (60) is disposed inside the casing (31) and irradiates the inside of the casing (31) with ultraviolet light. The ultraviolet irradiation unit (60) inactivates bacteria and viruses in the air inside the casing (31) with ultraviolet light. In this embodiment, the ultraviolet irradiation unit (60) inactivates bacteria and viruses in the air in the air flow path (34) with ultraviolet light.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 4 , the ultraviolet irradiation unit (60) includes a light source (61), a first reflecting portion (70), and a second reflecting portion (80). The light source (61) and the second reflecting portion (80) are disposed at one end of the air flow path (34) in the first direction, and the first reflecting portion (70) is disposed at the other end of the air flow path (34) in the first direction. The light source (61) includes, for example, a light-emitting diode (LED). The light source (61) emits ultraviolet light. The peak wavelength of the ultraviolet light emitted by the light source (61) is, for example, 280 nm or less. This can improve the sterilizing effect on air. The peak wavelength of the ultraviolet light emitted by the light source (61) is preferably 255 nm or more and 275 nm or less. This can particularly improve the sterilizing effect on air. The peak wavelength of the ultraviolet light emitted by the light source (61) may be 230 nm or less. This improves the safety of human exposure to ultraviolet light even if the ultraviolet light leaks outside the casing (31). The first reflecting portion (70) reflects the ultraviolet light emitted by the light source (61). The second reflecting portion (80) reflects the ultraviolet light emitted by the first reflecting portion (70).

[0045] (4) Detailed configuration of the ultraviolet irradiation unit As shown in FIG. 5, the ultraviolet irradiation unit (60) includes a substrate (62), a lens member (63), and a reflector (64).

[0046] (4-1) Substrate As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the board (62) has an electric circuit that controls the light source (61). The board (62) is included in the control unit (C). The control unit (C) switches the light source (61) on and off and adjusts the output of the light source (61). The control unit (C) of this embodiment is incorporated into an air conditioning controller that controls the air conditioner (10). The light source (61) is fixed to the board (62). A heat sink (65) for dissipating heat from the light source (61) is provided on the board (62).

[0047] (4-2) Lens components 5, 7(a), and 7(b), the lens member (63) has a lens (631) and a lens support portion (632). The lens (631) constitutes a light distribution control portion that distributes ultraviolet light from the light source (61). The lens (631) is disposed opposite the light source (61) with a gap therebetween.

[0048] Hereinafter, the direction in which the light source (61) and the lens (631) face each other may be referred to as the facing direction (Z). Of the facing direction (Z), the direction from the light source (61) to the lens (631) may be referred to as one side (Z1) of the facing direction (Z), and the direction from the lens (631) to the light source (61) may be referred to as the other side (Z2) of the facing direction (Z).

[0049] The lens support portion (632) supports the lens (631). The lens support portion (632) is translucent and transmits ultraviolet light. The translucency of the lens support portion (632) prevents the lens support portion (632) from being deteriorated by ultraviolet light. The lens support portion (632) has a cylindrical shape with both ends open in the facing direction (Z). The lens (631) is disposed at an end portion (632a) of the lens support portion (632) on one side (Z1) in the facing direction (Z). The opening of the lens support portion (632) on the one side (Z1) in the facing direction is closed by the lens (631). An opening (632b) communicating between the inside and outside of the lens support portion (632) is formed at an end portion (632c) of the lens support portion (632) on the other side (Z2) in the facing direction (Z). The light source 61 is located inside the opening 632b. An end 632c of the lens support 632 is fixed to the substrate 62. In this embodiment, the end 632c of the lens support 632 is formed in a flange shape that bulges outward.

[0050] The cross-sectional area (inner diameter) of the space (SA) inside the lens support part (632) perpendicular to the facing direction (Z) tapers down toward the lens (631). As a result, when manufacturing the lens support part (632) by injection molding, if the lens support part (632) has low roughness, it may be difficult to remove the mold from the lens support part (632). However, by configuring the cross-sectional area of ​​the space (SA) inside the lens support part (632) to taper down as in this embodiment, it becomes easy to remove the mold, and the lens support part can be manufactured easily.

[0051] 5, the space (SB) between the lens member (63) and the substrate (62) is sealed, and the light source (61) is disposed in the sealed space (SB), thereby protecting the light source (61) from particles suspended in the atmosphere, humidity, etc.

[0052] (4-3) Reflector The reflector (64) reflects ultraviolet light from the light source (61). The reflector (64) constitutes a light distribution control unit that distributes ultraviolet light from the light source (61). As shown in FIGS. 5, 8(a), and 8(b), the reflector (64) has a cylindrical shape with both ends open in the opposing direction (Z). The reflector (64) includes a first opening (641) formed at an end on one side (Z1) in the opposing direction (Z) and a second opening (642) formed at an end on the other side (Z2) in the opposing direction (Z). The first opening (641) and the second opening (642) each connect the interior and exterior of the reflector (64).

[0053] The reflector (64) includes a reflective surface (644) that reflects ultraviolet light. The reflective surface (644) is an inner surface of the reflector (64). The reflective surface (644) includes a first surface (644a) and a second surface (644b). The first surface (644a) is a surface of the reflective surface (644) located on one side (Z1) of the facing direction (Z). The second surface (644b) is a surface of the reflective surface (644) located on the other side (Z2) of the facing direction (Z). Each of the first surface (644a) and the second surface (644b) is a surface formed in an annular shape around the optical axis (61a) of the ultraviolet light emitted from the light source (61). In this embodiment, the optical axis (61a) is a virtual line that passes through the light source (61) and the lens (631) and is parallel to the facing direction (Z). The optical axis 61a, the axis of the lens support part 632, and the axis of the reflector 64 are all coaxial. The axis of the lens support part 632 is an imaginary line passing through the center of the lens 631 and the center of the opening 632b of the lens support part 632. The axis of the reflector 64 is an imaginary line passing through the centers of the openings 641 and 642 at both ends of the reflector 64.

[0054] The area of ​​a cross section perpendicular to the facing direction (Z) in the space surrounded by the first surface (644a) increases toward one side (Z1) in the facing direction (Z). The area of ​​a cross section perpendicular to the facing direction (Z) in the space surrounded by the second surface (644b) increases toward the other side (Z2) in the facing direction (Z). The first surface (644a) is located farther from the light source (61) than the second surface (644b). In terms of the position in the facing direction (Z), the second surface (644b) is located between the light source (61) and the lens (631).

[0055] An end portion 643 of the reflector 64 is fixed to the substrate 62. In this embodiment, the end portion 643 of the reflector 64 is formed in the shape of a flange that bulges outward.

[0056] The lens member 63 (lens 631 and lens support 632) is disposed inside the reflector 64. The second surface 644b of the reflector 64 faces the lens support 632. In this embodiment, the second surface 644b of the reflector 64 is located at a contact point between the reflector 64 and the lens support 632. Note that the second surface 644b of the reflector 64 may be out of contact with the lens support 632 by forming a gap between the second surface 644b of the reflector 64 and the lens support 632. A step 643b is formed in a portion of the end 643 of the reflector 64 that is located around the second opening 642. The end 632c of the lens support 632 is sandwiched between the step 643b of the reflector 64 and the substrate 62.

[0057] 8(a) to 10(c), the reflector (64) has a structure in which a plurality of members are joined together. In this embodiment, the reflector (64) includes a first portion (64A) and a second portion (64B), and has a structure in which the first portion (64A) and the second portion (64B) are joined together. When the reflector (64) is divided into two equal parts along the facing direction (Z), one portion is the first portion (64A) and the other portion is the second portion (64B).

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 9(a) to 9(c), the first portion (64A) of the reflector (64) includes a first opposing surface (64A1) facing the second portion (64B). A first joining protrusion (64A2) and a first joining hole (64A3) are arranged on the first opposing surface (64A1). As shown in FIGS. 10(a) to 10(c), the second portion (64B) of the reflector (64) includes a second opposing surface (64B1) facing the first portion (64A). A second joining protrusion (64B2) and a second joining hole (64B3) are arranged on the second opposing surface (64B1). 8(a) to 10(c), the first opposing surface (64A1) of the first portion (64A) and the second opposing surface (64B1) of the second portion (64B) are butted against each other, the first joining protrusion (64A2) is inserted into the second joining hole (64B3), and the second joining protrusion (64B2) is further inserted into the first joining hole (64A3), thereby joining the first portion (64A) and the second portion (64B) to form the reflector (64). Note that convex members such as the joining protrusions (64A2, 64B2) for joining the first portion (64A) and the second portion (64B) and concave members such as the joining holes (64A3, 64B3) may be disposed in both the first portion (64A) and the second portion (64B). Alternatively, the convex member may be disposed on one of the first portion 64A and the second portion 64B, and the concave member may be disposed on the other. Alternatively, the first portion 64A and the second portion 64B may be connected together using a pair of the convex member and the concave member.

[0059] (4-4) Direction of ultraviolet rays In Fig. 6, the dashed-dotted arrows schematically represent the traveling direction of ultraviolet light emitted from the light source (61). As shown in Fig. 6, the ultraviolet light emitted from the light source (61) passes through the lens (631) or is reflected by the reflecting surface (644) (first surface (644a)) of the reflector (64) without passing through the lens (631), and then travels in a direction to be collected within a predetermined irradiation area of ​​an irradiation object located at a position spaced from the light source (61) on one side (Z1) in the opposing direction (Z). In this embodiment, the irradiation object is the first reflecting section (70) (see Fig. 4).

[0060] (4-5) First positioning mechanism As shown in FIGS. 6 to 7(c), the ultraviolet irradiation unit (60) has a first positioning mechanism (66). The first positioning mechanism (66) positions a plurality of locations of the lens support portion (632) relative to the substrate (62). The lens support portion (632) is fixed to the substrate (62) in a state where it is positioned relative to the substrate (62) by the first positioning mechanism (66). The lens support portion (632) is fixed to the substrate (62) by, for example, screws or the like.

[0061] The first positioning mechanism (66) includes a first engagement portion (66a) and a second engagement portion (66b) that engages with the first engagement portion (66a).

[0062] A second engagement portion (66b) is arranged at each of a plurality of locations on the lens support portion (632). In other words, the plurality of locations on the lens support portion (632) are locations on the lens support portion (632) that are positioned relative to the substrate (62). In this embodiment, the plurality of second engagement portions (66b) are arranged at the end portion (632c) of the lens support portion (632), thereby positioning the end portion (632c) at a plurality of locations relative to the substrate (62).

[0063] The first engagement portion (66a) is arranged on a surface of the substrate (62) to which the light source (61) is fixed (a surface (Z1) facing one side (Z1) of the opposing direction (Z)). A plurality of first engagement portions (66a) are arranged on the substrate (62) so as to engage with each of the second engagement portions (66b). The plurality of first engagement portions (66a) are arranged at intervals in the axial direction (J) of the optical axis (61a). In this embodiment, the first engagement portions (66a) are first recesses (first holes) formed in the substrate (62), and are depressions formed in the substrate (62). In this embodiment, two first engagement portions (66a) are arranged at an interval of 180 degrees in the axial direction (J).

[0064] The second engagement portions (66b) are arranged at intervals in the axial direction (J) (see FIG. 6) of the optical axis (61a). In this embodiment, the second engagement portions (66b) are first convex portions (first protrusions) formed on the lens support portion (632) and protrusions protruding from the lens support portion (632). The first convex portions, which are the second engagement portions (66b), protrude from the end portion (632c) of the lens support portion (632) toward the other side (Z2) in the opposing direction (Z). In this embodiment, two second engagement portions (66b) are arranged at an interval of 180 degrees in the axial direction (J).

[0065] The plurality of first engagement portions (66a) correspond to the plurality of second engagement portions (66b), respectively. Each of the plurality of first engagement portions (66a) engages with a corresponding one of the plurality of second engagement portions (66b). That is, the plurality of first engagement portions (66a) engage with the plurality of second engagement portions (66b). In this embodiment, the engagement of the first engagement portion (66a) with the second engagement portion (66b) indicates that the second engagement portion (66b), which is a first convex portion, is inserted into the first engagement portion (66a), which is a first concave portion. The engagement of the plurality of first engagement portions (66a) with the plurality of second engagement portions (66b), respectively, restricts the lens support portion (632) from rotating around its axis relative to the substrate (62).

[0066] (4-6) Second positioning mechanism As shown in FIG. 6 and FIGS. 8(a) to 10(c), the ultraviolet irradiation unit (60) has a second positioning mechanism (67). The second positioning mechanism (67) positions the reflector (64) at multiple locations relative to the substrate (62). The reflector (64) is fixed to the substrate (62) after being positioned relative to the substrate (62) by the second positioning mechanism (67). The reflector (64) is fixed to the substrate (62) by, for example, screws.

[0067] The second positioning mechanism (67) includes a third engaging portion (67a) and a fourth engaging portion (67b) that engages with the third engaging portion (67a).

[0068] A fourth engagement portion (67b) is arranged at each of a plurality of locations on the reflector (64). In other words, the plurality of locations on the reflector (64) are locations on the reflector (64) that are positioned relative to the substrate (62). In this embodiment, the plurality of fourth engagement portions (67b) are arranged at the end portion (643) of the reflector (64), thereby positioning the end portion (643) at a plurality of locations relative to the substrate (62).

[0069] The third engagement portion (67a) is arranged on the surface of the substrate (62) to which the light source (61) is fixed. A plurality of third engagement portions (67a) are arranged on the substrate (62) so as to engage with each of the fourth engagement portions (67b). The plurality of third engagement portions (67a) are arranged at intervals in the axial direction (J) of the optical axis (61a). In this embodiment, the third engagement portions (67a) are second recesses (second holes) formed in the substrate (62), and are recesses formed in the substrate (62). In this embodiment, two third engagement portions (67a) are arranged at an interval of 180 degrees in the axial direction (J).

[0070] Each of the third engagement portions (67a) is disposed at a different location from each of the first engagement portions (66a). In this embodiment, the first engagement portions (66a) and the third engagement portions (67a) are disposed alternately in the direction (J) around the optical axis (61a).

[0071] The multiple fourth engagement portions (67b) are arranged at intervals in the direction (J) around the optical axis (61a) (see FIG. 6). In this embodiment, the fourth engagement portions (67b) are second convex portions (second projections) formed on the reflector (64) and protrude from the reflector (64). In this embodiment, the second convex portions, which are the fourth engagement portions (67b), protrude from the end portion (643) of the reflector (64) toward the other side (Z2) in the opposing direction (Z). In this embodiment, two fourth engagement portions (67b) are arranged at an interval of 180 degrees in the direction (J) around the axis.

[0072] The plurality of third engagement portions (67a) correspond to the plurality of fourth engagement portions (67b), respectively. Each of the plurality of third engagement portions (67a) engages with a corresponding one of the plurality of fourth engagement portions (67b). That is, the plurality of third engagement portions (67a) engage with the plurality of fourth engagement portions (67b), respectively. In this embodiment, the engagement of the third engagement portion (67a) with the fourth engagement portion (67b) indicates that the fourth engagement portion (67b), which is the second convex portion, is inserted into the third engagement portion (67a), which is the second concave portion. The engagement of the plurality of third engagement portions (67a) with the plurality of fourth engagement portions (67b), respectively, restricts the rotation of the reflector (64) around the axis of the lens support portion (632) relative to the substrate (62).

[0073] (5) Variations In this embodiment, the lens support portion (632) is directly fixed to the substrate (62) (see FIG. 5). However, the present invention is not limited to this. The lens support portion (632) may be indirectly fixed to the substrate (62) via a first fixing member, which is fixed to the substrate (62) by screwing or the like. The first fixing member is, for example, a heat sink or a reflector (64) fixed to the surface of the substrate (62) (the surface on which the light source (61) is disposed). When the first fixing member is a reflector (64), for example, an end (643) of the reflector (64) is protruded inward, and the end (632c) of the lens support portion (632) is fixed to the protruding end (643). Furthermore, a first engagement portion (66a) may be disposed on the first fixing member.

[0074] In this embodiment, the reflector (64) is directly fixed to the substrate (62) (see FIG. 5). However, the present invention is not limited to this. The reflector (64) may be indirectly fixed to the substrate (62) via a second fixing member, which is fixed to the substrate (62) by screwing or the like. The second fixing member may be, for example, a heat sink or a lens support (632) fixed to the surface of the substrate (62). When the second fixing member is the lens support (632), for example, an end (632c) of the lens support (632) may be protruded outward, and the end (643) of the reflector (64) may be fixed to the protruding end (632c). Furthermore, a third engagement portion (67a) may be provided on the second fixing member.

[0075] (6) Effects of the embodiment The first positioning mechanism (66) includes a plurality of first engagement portions (66a) arranged on the substrate (62) or the first fixing member and a plurality of second engagement portions (66b) arranged on the lens support portion (632), and the plurality of first engagement portions (66a) respectively engage with the plurality of second engagement portions (66b). This allows the lens support portion (632) to be fixed to the substrate (62) directly or indirectly via the first fixing member while the lens support portion (632) is positioned relative to the substrate (62) by the first positioning mechanism (66), thereby preventing an increase in assembly error of the ultraviolet irradiation unit (60). As a result, it is possible to prevent the lens (631) from being misaligned relative to the light source (61).

[0076] Furthermore, by engaging the first engaging portions (66a) with the second engaging portions (66b), the lens support portion (632) is positioned at multiple locations relative to the substrate (62), thereby preventing the lens support portion (632) from shifting in the rotational direction relative to the substrate (62). As a result, the lens support portion (632) can be effectively positioned relative to the substrate (62).

[0077] The second positioning mechanism (67) includes a plurality of third engagement portions (67a) arranged on the substrate (62) or the second fixing member and a plurality of fourth engagement portions (67b) arranged on the reflector (64), and the third engagement portions (67a) respectively engage with the fourth engagement portions (67b). This allows the reflector (64) to be fixed to the substrate (62) directly or indirectly via the second fixing member while the reflector (64) is positioned relative to the substrate (62) by the second positioning mechanism (67), thereby preventing an increase in assembly error of the ultraviolet irradiation unit (60).

[0078] Furthermore, by engaging the third engaging portions (67a) with the fourth engaging portions (67b), the reflector (64) is positioned at multiple locations relative to the substrate (62), thereby preventing the reflector (64) from shifting in the direction of rotation relative to the substrate (62). As a result, the reflector (64) can be effectively positioned relative to the substrate (62).

[0079] (7) Other embodiments The first engagement portion (66a) may be a third convex portion (third protrusion) protruding from the substrate (62) or the first fixing member, and the second engagement portion (66b) may be a third concave portion (third hole) that is a recess formed in the lens support portion (632). In this case, the first engagement portion (66a), which is the third convex portion, is inserted into the second engagement portion (66b), which is the third concave portion, so that the first engagement portion (66a) engages with the second engagement portion (66b). Note that, regarding the shapes of the first engagement portion (66a) and the second engagement portion (66b), in this embodiment, one of the first engagement portion (66a) and the second engagement portion (66b) is convex and the other engagement portion is concave, but the present invention is not limited to this. The first engagement portions (66a) and the second engagement portions (66b) may have shapes such that the plurality of first engagement portions (66a) engage with the plurality of second engagement portions (66b), respectively, thereby restricting the rotation of the lens support portion (632) around the axis of the lens support portion (632) relative to the substrate (62).

[0080] The third engagement portion (67a) may be a fourth convex portion (fourth protrusion) protruding from the substrate (62) or the second fixing member, and the fourth engagement portion (67b) may be a fourth concave portion (fourth hole) that is a recess formed in the reflector (64). In this case, the third engagement portion (67a), which is the fourth convex portion, is inserted into the fourth engagement portion (67b), which is the fourth concave portion, so that the third engagement portion (67a) engages with the fourth engagement portion (67b). Note that, regarding the shapes of the third engagement portion (67a) and the fourth engagement portion (67b), in the present embodiment, one of the third engagement portion (67a) and the fourth engagement portion (67b) is convex and the other engagement portion is concave, but the present invention is not limited to this. The third engagement portions (67a) and the fourth engagement portions (67b) may have shapes such that the plurality of third engagement portions (67a) engage with the plurality of fourth engagement portions (67b), respectively, thereby restricting the rotation of the reflector (64) relative to the substrate (62) around the axis of the lens support portion (632).

[0081] The first positioning mechanism 66 and the second positioning mechanism 67 may have different shapes. The first positioning mechanism 66 and the second positioning mechanism 67 have different shapes meaning that the first engagement portion 66a and the third engagement portion 67a have different shapes, and the second engagement portion 66b and the fourth engagement portion 67b have different shapes. For example, the first engagement portion 66a may be a hole and the third engagement portion 67a may be a protrusion, and the second engagement portion 66b may be a protrusion and the fourth engagement portion 67b may be a hole. This prevents the lens member 63 and the reflector 64 from being positioned using the wrong positioning mechanism, either the first positioning mechanism 66 or the second positioning mechanism 67.

[0082] The first positioning mechanism 66 and the second positioning mechanism 67 may have different dimensions. The first positioning mechanism 66 and the second positioning mechanism 67 have different shapes, which means that the first engagement portion 66a and the third engagement portion 67a have different dimensions, and the second engagement portion 66b and the fourth engagement portion 67b have different dimensions. As an example of making the first positioning mechanism 66 and the second positioning mechanism 67 different in size, when the first engagement portion 66a and the third engagement portion 67a are cylindrical protrusions and the second engagement portion 66b and the fourth engagement portion 67b are cylindrical holes, the outer diameter of the first engagement portion 66a and the outer diameter of the third engagement portion 67a are made different from each other and the inner diameter of the second engagement portion 66b and the inner diameter of the fourth engagement portion 67b are made different from each other. This makes it possible to prevent the use of an incorrect positioning mechanism, either the first positioning mechanism 66 or the second positioning mechanism 67, for the lens member 63 and the reflector 64.

[0083] 11, the end 632a of the lens support 632 may be located at the edge 631a of the lens 631. In this case, if the lens support 632 is attached to the ultraviolet light incident surface of the lens 631, the lens support 632 will block the ultraviolet light from entering the lens 631. Therefore, in order to prevent the lens support 632 from blocking the ultraviolet light from entering the lens 631, the end 632a of the lens support 632 is attached to the edge 631a of the lens 631. This allows the end 632a of the lens support 632 to function as the lens 631.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 12, when the length of the lens support portion (632) in the opposing direction (Z) of the light source (61) and the lens (631) is a, the distance from the substrate (62) to the light emitting surface of the light source (61) is α, the distance from the light source (61) to the object to be irradiated with ultraviolet light (first reflecting portion (70)) is L, and the diameter of the light emitting surface of the light source (61) or the length of one side of the light emitting surface of the light source (61) is X, the configuration may be such that the relationship of the following equation 1 holds.

[0085] (Number 1) LX / (70+X)+α≦a≦LX / (20+X)+α

[0086] This allows for the generation of a paraxial image plane having a width of 20 nm or more and 70 mm or less in a predetermined direction relative to the reflecting surface of the object to be irradiated (first reflecting portion (70)). The predetermined direction may be considered as the direction perpendicular to the first direction in which the width is narrowest in design terms, in order to form a processing space in the air flow path (34) using ultraviolet light from the ultraviolet irradiation unit (60). The lens (631) and reflector (64) form an image of the light-emitting surface on or near the irradiated surface of the object to be irradiated, and the edges of the image plane formed on the irradiated surface are somewhat blurred due to aberration. The paraxial image plane is an image plane that includes such blur (aberration).

[0087] The reflector (64) has a structure in which a plurality of members are joined together, but it may also be a single member.

[0088] In this embodiment, the lens 631 and the lens support 632 are integrated. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The lens 631 and the lens support 632 may be separate bodies, and the lens 631 may be detachable from the lens support 632. In this case, for example, a lens engagement portion (e.g., a protrusion) may be provided on the lens 631, and a support engagement portion (e.g., a hole) that engages with the lens engagement portion may be provided on the lens support 632. The lens 631 may be attached to the lens support 632 by engaging the lens engagement portion with the support engagement portion (inserting the protrusion of the lens 631 into the hole of the lens support 632), and the lens 631 may be detached from the lens support 632 by disengaging the support engagement portion from the lens engagement portion (removing the protrusion of the lens 631 from the hole of the lens support 632).

[0089] The heat transfer tube (52) does not have to be a circular tube, but may be a flat multi-hole tube.

[0090] The ultraviolet irradiation unit (60) may not have the reflector (64).

[0091] The control unit (C) may cause the ultraviolet irradiation unit (60) to irradiate ultraviolet rays while the fan (42) is stopped, which can suppress the growth of bacteria while the air conditioner (10) is stopped.

[0092] The ultraviolet irradiation unit (60) may be disposed inside the outdoor casing (20a) and may irradiate the interior of the outdoor casing (20a) with ultraviolet light. In this case, the ultraviolet irradiation unit (60) inactivates bacteria and viruses in the air inside the outdoor casing (20a) by the ultraviolet light.

[0093] The air conditioner (10) may be an indoor multi-type having two or more indoor units (30) or an outdoor multi-type having two or more outdoor units (20). The air conditioner (10) does not have to be a separate type, but may be an integrated type in which a user-side heat exchanger and a heat-source-side heat exchanger are housed in a single casing. The air conditioner (10) does not have to be a stationary type. Specifically, the air conditioner (10) may be a container refrigeration system that cools the interior space of a transport container, or may be an air conditioner for a vehicle.

[0094] Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Elements of the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be combined or substituted as appropriate.

[0095] Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various modifications in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Furthermore, the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be combined or substituted as appropriate as long as the functionality of the subject matter of the present disclosure is not impaired.

[0096] The terms "first," "second," "third," etc. mentioned above are used to distinguish the terms to which these terms are attached, and do not limit the number or order of the terms. [Industrial Applicability]

[0097] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY As described above, the present disclosure is useful for ultraviolet irradiation units and air conditioning apparatuses. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 10 Air conditioning equipment 31 Casing 61 Light source 62 PCB 66 First positioning mechanism 66a First engaging part 66b Second engaging part 67 Second positioning mechanism 67a Third engaging part 67b 4th engaging part 70 1st reflection section 80 2nd reflection section 631 Lens 632 Lens support

Claims

1. a light source (61) for irradiating ultraviolet light; a substrate (62) to which the light source (61) is fixed; a lens member (63) including a lens (631) arranged opposite the light source (61) and a lens support portion (632) fixed to the substrate (62) or a first fixing member fixed to the substrate (62) and supporting the lens (631); a first positioning mechanism (66) for positioning the lens support portion (632) relative to the substrate (62); Equipped with the first positioning mechanism (66) includes a plurality of first engagement portions (66a) arranged on the substrate (62) or the first fixing member, and a plurality of second engagement portions (66b) arranged on the lens support portion (632), an ultraviolet irradiation unit, wherein the first engaging portions (66a) engage with the second engaging portions (66b), respectively;

2. The ultraviolet irradiation unit according to claim 1, wherein a cross-sectional area of ​​the space (SA) inside the lens support portion (632) is tapered.

3. 3. The ultraviolet irradiation unit according to claim 1, wherein a space (SB) between the lens member (63) and the substrate (62) is sealed, and the light source (61) is disposed in the space (SB).

4. a reflector (64) fixed to the substrate (62) or a second fixing member fixed to the substrate (62), and configured to reflect ultraviolet light emitted from the light source (61); a second positioning mechanism (67) for positioning the reflector (64) relative to the substrate (62); The ultraviolet irradiation unit according to claim 1 or 2, comprising:

5. the second positioning mechanism (67) includes a plurality of third engagement portions (67a) arranged on the substrate (62) or the second fixing member, and a plurality of fourth engagement portions (67b) arranged on the reflector (64), The ultraviolet irradiation unit according to claim 4, wherein the third engaging portions (67a) are engaged with the fourth engaging portions (67b), respectively.

6. 5. The ultraviolet irradiation unit according to claim 4, wherein the lens member (63) is disposed inside the reflector (64).

7. 5. The ultraviolet irradiation unit according to claim 4, wherein the first positioning mechanism (66) and the second positioning mechanism (67) have different shapes or different dimensions.

8. 3. The ultraviolet irradiation unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the relationship of mathematical expression 1 holds when a is a length of the lens support portion (632) in a direction (Z) of opposing the light source (61) and the lens (631), α is a distance from the substrate (62) to the light emitting surface of the light source (61), L is a distance from the light source (61) to an object (70) to be irradiated with ultraviolet light, and X is a diameter of the light emitting surface or a length of one side of the light emitting surface. (Equation 1) LX / (70+X)+α≦a≦LX / (20+X)+α

9. 3. The ultraviolet irradiation unit according to claim 1, wherein an end portion (632a) of the lens support portion (632) is located on an edge portion (631a) of the lens (631).

10. The ultraviolet irradiation unit according to claim 1 or 2; a casing (20a, 31) of the indoor unit (30) or the outdoor unit (20); Equipped with The air conditioner, wherein the ultraviolet irradiation unit is disposed inside the casing (20a, 31).

Citation Information

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