Air conditioner

Abstract

To provide an air conditioner capable of reducing the number of irradiation parts for irradiating ultraviolet rays.SOLUTION: The air conditioner 10 includes an irradiation part 61 for irradiating the air flow path 34 with ultraviolet rays, and a reflection part for enlarging and reflecting the incident ultraviolet rays toward the components 42, 44 and 50.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioning apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an air conditioner having a UV irradiator that irradiates ultraviolet rays. Multiple (three) UV irradiators are provided inside the casing of the air conditioner. Each UV irradiator irradiates a heat exchanger, which is a component, with ultraviolet rays, thereby sterilizing the surface of the heat exchanger. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Publication No. 2023-100474 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In Patent Document 1, a plurality of UV irradiators (irradiation units) are provided to irradiate the entire heat exchanger with ultraviolet light, which increases costs.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioning apparatus that can reduce the number of irradiation units that irradiate ultraviolet rays. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The first aspect is directed to an air conditioner (10). The air conditioner (10) includes a casing (31) having an air flow path (34) through which air flows, components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55) arranged in the air flow path (34), an irradiation unit (61) that irradiates ultraviolet light toward the air flow path (34), and a reflection unit (70) that magnifies and reflects the incident ultraviolet light toward the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55).

[0007] In the first aspect, the irradiation unit (61) irradiates the air flow path (34) with ultraviolet light, thereby sterilizing the air in the air flow path (34) with ultraviolet light. After the irradiation unit (61) irradiates the ultraviolet light, the reflecting unit (70) reflects the incident ultraviolet light toward the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55). This sterilizes the surfaces of the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55). Here, the reflecting unit (70) magnifies and reflects the ultraviolet light toward the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55), thereby increasing the area of ​​the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55) that is hit by the ultraviolet light (hereinafter also referred to as the irradiation area). As a result, the number of irradiation units (61) can be reduced.

[0008] In the second embodiment, the reflecting portion (70) in the first embodiment has arc-shaped convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, which is the incident direction of ultraviolet rays.

[0009] In the second embodiment, the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) reflect and expand the ultraviolet light emitted from the irradiating section (61), thereby expanding the area irradiated with the ultraviolet light.

[0010] In the third embodiment, when viewed in a cross section parallel to the second direction and including perpendicular lines (91, 92, 93) to the vertices of the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) in the second embodiment, the convex surfaces are formed in an arc shape.

[0011] In the third embodiment, the irradiation direction of the ultraviolet light reflected by the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) is expanded in two directions. In other words, the ultraviolet light reflected by the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) spreads radially.

[0012] In the fourth aspect, in the third aspect, the radius of curvature when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the second direction and including the perpendicular lines (91, 92, 93) to the vertices of the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) is smaller than the radius of curvature when viewed in a cross section parallel to the second direction and including the perpendicular lines (91, 92, 93) to the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73).

[0013] In the fourth aspect, the spread width of the ultraviolet light can be made different in two directions, so that the irradiation area can be formed to match the shape of the component.

[0014] In a fifth aspect, in any one of the second to fourth aspects, the reflecting portion (70) has a first convex surface (71) and a second convex surface (72) as convex surfaces.

[0015] In the fifth aspect, the reflective portion (70) is provided with a plurality of convex surfaces (71, 72, 73), that is, a first convex surface (71) and a second convex surface (72), thereby making it possible to further expand the ultraviolet irradiation area.

[0016] In the sixth embodiment, when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the second direction in the fifth embodiment, the radius of curvature of the first convex surface (71) is different from the radius of curvature of the second convex surface (72).

[0017] In the sixth aspect, the range over which ultraviolet light spreads can be made different between the first convex surface (71) and the second convex surface (72), so that the range of the irradiation area corresponding to each convex surface (71, 72, 73) and the illuminance of these irradiation areas can be adjusted.

[0018] In the seventh aspect, in the sixth aspect, when viewed in the second direction, the irradiation distance of ultraviolet light from the first convex surface (71) to the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55) is longer than the irradiation distance of ultraviolet light from the second convex surface (72) to the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55). When viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the second direction, the radius of curvature of the first convex surface (71) is larger than the radius of curvature of the second convex surface (72).

[0019] In the seventh aspect, the radius of curvature of the first convex surface (71) is larger than the radius of curvature of the second convex surface (72). Incidentally, the illuminance of the irradiation area decreases as the irradiation distance increases. Therefore, the difference in the irradiation distance of each convex surface (71, 72, 73) causes variations in the illuminance of the irradiation area (IR) corresponding to each convex surface (71, 72, 73), resulting in non-uniform sterilization performance depending on the position of the component (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55). In contrast, by increasing the radius of curvature of the first convex surface (71), which has a longer irradiation area, the irradiation area (IR) corresponding to the first convex surface (71) becomes smaller. As a result, the energy density of ultraviolet light in the irradiation area corresponding to the first convex surface (71) increases, thereby increasing the illuminance of this irradiation area. Conversely, by decreasing the radius of curvature of the second convex surface (72), the irradiation area (IR) corresponding to the second convex surface (72) becomes larger. As a result, the density of ultraviolet light in the irradiation area corresponding to the second convex surface (72), which is the side where the irradiation area is shorter, is reduced, and the illuminance of this irradiation area can be reduced, thereby preventing the illuminance of the irradiation area from becoming non-uniform across the entire component (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55).

[0020] In an eighth aspect, in any one of the second to seventh aspects, the reflecting portion (70) has a concave surface (74) that is concave when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the second direction. When viewed in the second direction, the irradiation distance of ultraviolet light from the concave surface (74) to the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55) is longer than the irradiation distance of ultraviolet light from the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) to the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55).

[0021] In the eighth aspect, by making the reflecting surface on the side where the irradiation distance is longer a concave surface (74), the irradiation area corresponding to the concave surface (74) becomes smaller. As a result, the illuminance of the irradiation area corresponding to the concave surface (74) can be increased. Conversely, by making the reflecting surface on the side where the irradiation area is shorter a convex surface (71, 72, 73), the irradiation area corresponding to the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) becomes larger. As a result, the illuminance of the irradiation area corresponding to the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) can be increased. This makes it possible to prevent the illuminance of the irradiation area from becoming non-uniform across the entire component (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55).

[0022] A ninth aspect is any one of the second to eighth aspects, wherein the irradiating section (61) is configured to irradiate ultraviolet light in a first direction toward the reflecting section (70). When viewed in the first direction, the irradiating section (61) overlaps with the reflecting section (70). When viewed in the first direction, the irradiating section (61) does not overlap with the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55).

[0023] In the ninth aspect, ultraviolet rays emitted from the irradiation unit (61) can be prevented from hitting the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55), and therefore an ultraviolet irradiation space can be formed in the air flow path (34) between the irradiation unit (61) and the reflection unit (70). This allows the air in the air flow path (34) to be sufficiently sterilized. Furthermore, ultraviolet rays can be sufficiently delivered to the reflection unit (70), and therefore the reflected ultraviolet rays can sterilize the surfaces of the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55).

[0024] In a tenth aspect, in the ninth aspect, the length of the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55) in a first direction is greater than the length of the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55) in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0025] In the tenth aspect, the distance from the irradiating portion (61) to the reflecting portion (70) is increased, thereby increasing the irradiation space formed in the air flow path (34). This increases the ability to sterilize the air in the air flow path (34). The reflecting portion (70) can expand the ultraviolet irradiation area in the first direction, thereby forming an irradiation area over the entire components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55).

[0026] In an eleventh aspect, in the ninth or tenth aspect, the irradiation section (61) is arranged at one end in the first direction of the air flow path (34), and the reflection section (70) is arranged at the other end in the first direction of the air flow path (34).

[0027] In the eleventh aspect, the distance from the irradiating section (61) to the reflecting section (70) is increased, thereby increasing the irradiation space formed in the air flow path (34), thereby further increasing the ability to sterilize the air in the air flow path (34).

[0028] A twelfth aspect is any one of the first to eleventh aspects, wherein the component (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55) includes a heat exchanger (50, 55), a fan (42, 46), a drain pan (43), or a scroll wall (35).

[0029] In a twelfth embodiment, the surfaces of the heat exchanger (50, 55), the fan (42, 46), the drain pan (43), or the scroll wall (35) can be disinfected by ultraviolet light. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view showing the appearance of an indoor unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the irradiation unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the main part of the irradiation unit when viewed from a second direction. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the main part of the irradiation unit as viewed from the downstream side in the third direction. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-sectional shape of the reflecting portion that is perpendicular to the second direction and includes a perpendicular line to the vertex of the convex surface, and a cross-sectional shape of the reflecting portion that is parallel to the second direction and includes a perpendicular line to the vertex of the convex surface. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram of the second modification corresponding to FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram of the third modification corresponding to FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the indoor unit of the fourth modification. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram of the fifth modified example corresponding to FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. 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.

[0032] (1) Overview of air conditioning equipment The air conditioner (10) conditions the air in an indoor space (I), which is a target space. The air conditioner (10) of this embodiment adjusts the temperature of the indoor air. The air conditioner (10) has an indoor unit (30) and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit (30) and the outdoor unit are connected by a communication pipe to form a refrigerant circuit that performs a cooling cycle and a heating cycle. In the cooling cycle, the air in the indoor space (I) is cooled by the indoor heat exchanger (50) functioning as an evaporator. In the heating cycle, the air in the indoor space (I) is heated by the indoor heat exchanger (50) functioning as a condenser (heat radiator).

[0033] (2) Indoor unit configuration As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the indoor unit (30) is installed in an 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. The casing (31) has a front plate (31a), a rear plate (31b), an upper plate (31c), a lower plate (31d), a first side plate (31e), and a second side plate (31f). The front plate (31a) is formed on the front side of the casing (31), the rear plate (31b) is formed on the rear side of the casing (31), the upper plate (31c) is formed on the upper side of the casing (31), the lower plate (31d) is formed on the lower side of the casing (31), the first side plate (31e) is formed on the right side of the casing (31), and the second side plate (31f) is formed on the left side of the casing (31).

[0035] An inlet (32) is formed in the upper plate (31c), and an outlet (33) is formed in the lower plate (31d). 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) has vertically elongated fins (51) arranged on the left and right and heat transfer tubes (52) passing through the fins (51) in the left-right direction. 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 front first heat exchange section (H1), a front second heat exchange section (H2), and a rear heat exchange section (H3). The front first heat exchange section (H1) and the front second heat exchange section (H2) are arranged on the front plate (31a) of the casing (31) and closer to the top plate (31c). The front second heat exchange section (H2) is arranged below the front first heat exchange section (H1). A drain pan (43) is provided below the front second heat exchange section (H2). The rear heat exchange section (H3) is arranged on the rear plate (31b) of the casing (31) and closer to the top plate (31c).

[0039] In this embodiment, the front first heat exchanger (H1) constitutes a component to be sterilized of the irradiation unit (60). The front first heat exchanger (H1) has an outer shape with its longitudinal direction in the left-right 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 left-right direction. In other words, the indoor fan (42) has an outer shape whose longitudinal direction is the left-right 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). The drain pan (43) extends in the left-right direction along the front second heat exchange portion (H2).

[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] (2-5) Scroll Wall A scroll wall (35) is provided inside the casing (31). The scroll wall (35) guides air in the air flow path (34) toward the air outlet (33) downstream of the indoor fan (42). The scroll wall (35) forms an inner surface that is in the shape of an involute curve when viewed in the axial direction of the indoor fan (42).

[0044] (3) Irradiation unit The air conditioner (10) includes an irradiation unit (60). The irradiation unit (60) includes an irradiation section (61) that irradiates ultraviolet light and a reflection section (70) that reflects the ultraviolet light irradiated by the irradiation section (61). The irradiation unit (60) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 2 to 6.

[0045] In the following description, the first direction is the direction in which ultraviolet light is incident on the reflecting section (70). In this embodiment, the first direction corresponds to the direction in which the irradiation section (61) irradiates ultraviolet light, specifically, the left-right direction. The second direction is a direction perpendicular to the first direction. In this embodiment, the second direction corresponds to the longitudinal direction of the fins (51) of the front first heat exchange section (H1). The third direction is a direction perpendicular to the first and second directions. In this embodiment, the third direction corresponds to the flow direction of air passing through the front first heat exchange section (H1). In other words, the third direction corresponds to the width direction of the fins (51) of the front first heat exchange section (H1).

[0046] (3-1) Overall structure The irradiation unit (60) has a function of sterilizing the air in the air flow path (34) and a function of sterilizing the surfaces of the components. The irradiation unit (60) inactivates bacteria and viruses in the air in the air flow path (34) by irradiating ultraviolet light. The irradiation unit (60) inactivates mold, viruses, and bacteria on the surface of the indoor heat exchanger (50), which is a component, by irradiating ultraviolet light.

[0047] 2, the irradiation unit (60) of this embodiment is disposed between the indoor heat exchanger (50) and the indoor fan (42). The irradiation unit (60) is located downstream of the front first heat exchange section (H1). The irradiation unit (60) forms an ultraviolet irradiation space along the outflow surface of the front first heat exchange section (H1).

[0048] The irradiation section (61) is disposed at one end of the air flow path (34) in the first direction, and the reflection section (70) is disposed at the other end of the air flow path (34) in the first direction. The irradiation section (61) is supported directly or indirectly on the inner surface of the second side plate (31f) of the casing (31). The reflection section (70) is supported directly or indirectly on the inner surface of the first side plate (31e) of the casing (31).

[0049] (3-2) Irradiation unit The irradiation section (61) faces the other end in the first direction. The irradiation section (61) irradiates ultraviolet light in the first direction toward the air flow path (34). When viewed in the first direction, the irradiation section (61) overlaps with the reflection section (70). When viewed in the first direction, the irradiation section (61) does not overlap with the front first heat exchange section (H1), which is a component of the irradiation section (61).

[0050] 3, the irradiation unit 61 includes an LED (Light Emitting Diode) 62, a reflector 63, a lens 64, and a control board 65 that controls the LED 62. The reflector 63 and the lens 64 constitute a light distribution control unit that distributes ultraviolet light from the LED 62.

[0051] The LED (62) is a light source that emits ultraviolet light. The peak wavelength of the ultraviolet light emitted by the LED (62) is 280 nm or less. This can improve the sterilization effect on the air and components. The peak wavelength of the ultraviolet light emitted by the LED (62) is preferably 255 nm or more and 275 nm or less. This can improve the sterilization effect, particularly on the air and components. The peak wavelength of the ultraviolet light emitted by the LED (62) may be 230 nm or less. This can improve the safety of human exposure if the ultraviolet light leaks outside the casing (31).

[0052] The reflector 63 is a curved reflecting plate that reflects the ultraviolet light emitted from the LED 62. The lens 64 condenses the ultraviolet light emitted from the LED 62. The reflector 63 and the lens 64 allow the ultraviolet light from the irradiation unit 61 to be emitted along a first optical axis A1.

[0053] The control board (65) has an electric circuit that controls the LEDs (62). The control board (65) is included in a control unit of the air conditioner (10). The control unit switches the LEDs (62) on and off and adjusts the output of the LEDs (62).

[0054] (3-3) Reflection part The reflecting portion (70) faces the front first heat exchange portion (H1). The reflecting portion (70) reflects the ultraviolet light emitted by the irradiating portion (61) toward the front first heat exchange portion (H1) in an enlarged manner. In this embodiment, the irradiating portion (61) and the reflecting portion (70) face each other in the first direction.

[0055] As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the reflecting portion (70) has a first convex surface (71), a second convex surface (72), and a third convex surface (73) as convex surfaces that reflect ultraviolet light. The apex of each of the first convex surface (71), the second convex surface (72), and the third convex surface (73) faces the front first heat exchange portion (H1). In this embodiment, the first convex surface (71), the second convex surface (72), and the third convex surface (73) are formed on the same component. The reflecting portion (70) is obtained, for example, by press-molding a metal material. The first convex surface (71), the second convex surface (72), and the third convex surface (73) may be formed on separate components. In this case, these separate components may be joined together or fixed to a support member.

[0056] In the reflecting section (70) of this embodiment, a first convex surface (71), a second convex surface (72), and a third convex surface (73) are arranged in this order from one end side to the other end side in the first direction. In the reflecting section (70), the third convex surface (73), the second convex surface (72), and the first convex surface (71) are arranged in this order from one end side (upstream side) to the other end side (downstream side) in the third direction. The arrangement direction of the first convex surface (71), the second convex surface (72), and the third convex surface (73) is inclined with respect to the third direction toward the other end side in the first direction, i.e., toward the opposite side of the irradiation section (61), so that the third convex surface (73) is located closer to the other end side in the first direction.

[0057] In this embodiment, each of the spherical convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) has an arc-shaped arc surface when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the second direction. As shown in FIG. 6 , strictly speaking, each of the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) has an arc-shaped arc surface when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the second direction and including perpendicular lines (91, 92, 93) to the vertices of the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73). Hereinafter, this cross section will be referred to as cross section A, and this arc surface will be referred to as the first-viewing-side arc surface. The perpendicular line to the vertex of the first convex surface (71) will be defined as the first perpendicular line (91), the perpendicular line to the vertex of the second convex surface (72) as the second perpendicular line (92), and the perpendicular line to the vertex of the third convex surface (73) as the third perpendicular line (93). Each of the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) has an arc-shaped arc surface when viewed in a cross section parallel to the second direction and including a perpendicular line (91, 92, 93) to the vertex of the convex surface (71, 72, 73). Hereinafter, this cross section will be referred to as cross section B, and this arc surface will be referred to as the second-viewing-side arc surface.

[0058] 6, when viewed from cross section A, the first convex surface (71) has a first arcuate surface (81), the second convex surface (72) has a second arcuate surface (82), and the third convex surface (73) has a third arcuate surface (83). When viewed from cross section B, the first convex surface (71) has a fourth arcuate surface (84), the second convex surface (72) has a fifth arcuate surface (85), and the third convex surface (73) has a sixth arcuate surface (86).

[0059] The first convex surface (71), the second convex surface (72), and the third convex surface (73) each reflect the incident ultraviolet light toward the front first heat exchanger (H1), thereby forming an irradiation area (IR) on the downstream surface of the front first heat exchanger (H1).

[0060] Specifically, the first convex surface (71) reflects the ultraviolet light along the second optical axis (A2), thereby forming a first irradiation area (IR1) in the front-side first heat exchanger (H1). The second convex surface (72) reflects the ultraviolet light along the third optical axis (A3), thereby forming a second irradiation area (IR2) in the front-side first heat exchanger (H1). The third convex surface (73) reflects the ultraviolet light along the third optical axis (A3), thereby forming a third irradiation area (IR3) in the front-side first heat exchanger (H1). As a result, the first irradiation area (IR1), the second irradiation area (IR2), and the third irradiation area (IR3) are formed on the downstream surface of the front-side first heat exchanger (H1) in this order from one end to the other in the first direction. In this embodiment, the first irradiation area (IR1), the second irradiation area (IR2), and the third irradiation area (IR3) are formed discontinuously in the first direction. The irradiation area (IR) is a combined area of ​​the first irradiation area (IR1), the second irradiation area (IR2), and the third irradiation area (IR3).

[0061] As shown in FIG. 4, the second optical axis (A2) corresponds to a line connecting the midpoint of the first convex surface (71) and the midpoint of the first irradiation area (IR1). The third optical axis (A3) corresponds to a line connecting the midpoint of the second convex surface (72) and the midpoint of the second irradiation area (IR2). The fourth optical axis (A4) corresponds to a line connecting the midpoint of the third convex surface (73) and the midpoint of the third irradiation area (IR3). Strictly speaking, the midpoint of the first convex surface (71) is the center of the optically effective surface of the first convex surface (71), the midpoint of the second convex surface (72) is the center of the optically effective surface of the second convex surface (72), and the midpoint of the third convex surface (73) is the center of the optically effective surface of the third convex surface (73).

[0062] (4) Relationship between irradiation unit parameters As shown in FIG. 4, the irradiation unit (60) is configured to satisfy the relationship of first irradiation distance (L1) > second irradiation distance (L2) > third irradiation distance (L3) when viewed in the second direction. The first irradiation distance (L1) is the length of a line connecting the midpoint of the first convex surface (71) and the midpoint of the first irradiation area (IR1), in other words, the length of the second optical axis (A2). The second irradiation distance (L2) is the length of a line connecting the midpoint of the second convex surface (72) and the midpoint of the second irradiation area (IR2), in other words, the length of the third optical axis (A3). The third irradiation distance (L3) is the length of a line connecting the midpoint of the third convex surface (73) and the midpoint of the third irradiation area (IR3), in other words, the length of the fourth optical axis (A4).

[0063] The irradiation unit (60) is configured to satisfy the relationship of first angle (θ1) < second angle (θ2) < third angle (θ3). The first angle (θ1) is the narrower angle between the first optical axis (A1) and the second optical axis (A2). The second angle (θ2) is the narrower angle between the first optical axis (A1) and the third optical axis (A3). The third angle (θ3) is the narrower angle between the first optical axis (A1) and the fourth optical axis (A4).

[0064] 6, the reflecting portion (70) is configured to satisfy the relationship: first radius of curvature (R1) > second radius of curvature (R2) > third radius of curvature (R3). The first radius of curvature (R1) is the radius of curvature of the first arcuate surface (81), the second radius of curvature (R2) is the radius of curvature of the second arcuate surface (82), and the third radius of curvature (R3) is the radius of curvature of the third arcuate surface (83).

[0065] The reflecting portion (70) is configured to satisfy the relationship: fourth radius of curvature (R4) > fifth radius of curvature (R5) > sixth radius of curvature (R6). The fourth radius of curvature (R4) is the radius of curvature of the fourth arcuate surface (84), the fifth radius of curvature (R5) is the radius of curvature of the fifth arcuate surface (85), and the sixth radius of curvature (R6) is the radius of curvature of the sixth arcuate surface (86).

[0066] In the reflecting portion (70), the radius of curvature of each convex surface (71, 72, 73) when viewed in a cross section (cross section A) perpendicular to the second direction and including perpendicular lines (91, 92, 93) to the vertices of the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) is different from the radius of curvature when viewed in a cross section (cross section B) parallel to the second direction and including perpendicular lines (91, 92, 93) to the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73). In other words, each convex surface (71, 72, 73) forms a so-called toroidal surface. Specifically, the radius of curvature of each convex surface (71, 72, 73) when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the second direction is smaller than the radius of curvature when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the third direction. More specifically, in the first convex surface (71), the first radius of curvature (R1) is smaller than the fourth radius of curvature (R4). In the second convex surface (72), the second radius of curvature (R2) is smaller than the fifth radius of curvature (R5). In the third convex surface (73), the third radius of curvature (R3) is smaller than the sixth radius of curvature (R6).

[0067] 4, the irradiation unit (60) is configured to satisfy the relationship of first length (D1) < second length (D2) < third length (D3), where the first length (D1) is the length of the first irradiation area (IR1) in the first direction, the second length (D2) is the length of the second irradiation area (IR2) in the first direction, and the third length (D3) is the length of the third irradiation area (IR3) in the first direction.

[0068] 5, the irradiation unit (60) of this embodiment has a first width (W1), a second width (W2), and a third width (W3) that are approximately equal to one another. Here, the first width (W1) is the maximum length of the first irradiation region (IR1) in the second direction, the second width (W2) is the maximum length of the second irradiation region (IR2) in the second direction, and the third width (W3) is the maximum length of the third irradiation region (IR3) in the second direction. The irradiation unit (60) may be configured to satisfy the relationship: first width (W1)<second width (W2)<third width (W3).

[0069] The irradiation unit (60) of this embodiment is configured to satisfy the relationship of first area (S1) < second area (S2) < third area (S3), where the first area (S1) is the area of ​​the first irradiation region (IR1), the second area (S2) is the area of ​​the second irradiation region (IR2), and the third area (S3) is the area of ​​the third irradiation region (IR3).

[0070] (5) Operation of the irradiation unit The irradiation unit (60) operates when the air conditioner (10) is operating. The irradiation unit (60) may operate when the air conditioner (10) is not operating. When the irradiation unit (60) is operating, the LED (62) of the irradiation section (61) is turned on.

[0071] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the irradiation unit (61) irradiates ultraviolet light in a first direction from one end to the other end in the first direction. A first optical axis (A1), which is the optical axis of the ultraviolet light from the irradiation unit (61), coincides with the first direction. The irradiation unit (61) irradiates ultraviolet light along an ultraviolet irradiation area (IR) on the front first heat exchange unit (H1). The ultraviolet light from the irradiation unit (61) does not hit the front first heat exchange unit (H1), which is a component, and travels through the air flow path (34). As a result, the ultraviolet light irradiated from the irradiation unit (61) can sterilize the air in the air flow path (34).

[0072] The first direction is the longitudinal direction of the air flow path (34). This makes it easier to irradiate the entire air flow path (34) with ultraviolet light, thereby improving the sterilization effect of the air. The first direction is a direction intersecting, specifically a direction perpendicular to, the air flow in the air flow path (34). This increases the retention time of air passing through the space irradiated with ultraviolet light in the air flow path (34), thereby improving the sterilization effect of the air.

[0073] When the ultraviolet light emitted by the irradiation section (61) reaches the reflection section (70), the reflection section (70) reflects the ultraviolet light toward the front first heat exchange section (H1). Specifically, the first convex surface (71) reflects the ultraviolet light of the second optical axis (A2) toward the first irradiation region (IR1). The second convex surface (72) reflects the ultraviolet light of the third optical axis (A3) toward the second irradiation region (IR2). The third convex surface (73) reflects the ultraviolet light of the fourth optical axis (A4) toward the third irradiation region (IR3).

[0074] As shown in Fig. 4, each of the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) has an arcuate surface on the first viewing side when viewed from cross section A. This allows the irradiation range of ultraviolet light, and therefore the irradiation area (IR), to be expanded in the first direction. As a result, the irradiation area (IR) can be formed over the entire longitudinal direction of the front first heat exchange section (H1).

[0075] The radii of curvature (R1, R2, R3) of the first viewing-side arcuate surfaces are smaller than the radii of curvature (R4, R5, R6) of the second viewing-side arcuate surfaces. Therefore, in the first direction, the irradiation range of ultraviolet light can be significantly expanded in the longitudinal direction of the indoor heat exchanger (50). Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4, the irradiation area (IR) can be formed over the entire longitudinal direction of the indoor heat exchanger (50).

[0076] The radii of curvature (R4, R5, R6) of the second-view-side arcuate surfaces are larger than the radii of curvature (R1, R2, R3) of the first-view-side arcuate surfaces. Therefore, in the second direction, the irradiation range of the ultraviolet light can be prevented from becoming excessively large in the short-side direction of the indoor heat exchanger (50). Therefore, as shown in FIG. 5, the irradiation range of the ultraviolet light can be prevented from becoming larger than the indoor heat exchanger (50), and leakage of the ultraviolet light to the outside of the casing (31) can be prevented.

[0077] The arrangement direction of the first convex surface (71), the second convex surface (72), and the third convex surface (73) is inclined in a direction in which each perpendicular line (91, 92, 93) of each convex surface (71, 72, 73) has a component on one end side in the first direction and a component on one end side in the third direction, so that the third convex surface (73) is located closer to the other end in the first direction. This allows the irradiation range of ultraviolet light to be expanded in the first direction.

[0078] As shown in Fig. 5, each of the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) has an arcuate surface facing the second view side when viewed from cross section B. This allows the ultraviolet irradiation range and further the irradiation area to be expanded in the second direction. As a result, the irradiation area (IR) can be formed across the entire width direction (longitudinal direction of the fins) of the front first heat exchange section (H1).

[0079] Incidentally, the illuminance of the irradiation area (IR) decreases as the irradiation distance increases. This is because the illuminance of the irradiation area (IR) is inversely proportional to the square of the irradiation distance. If the first convex surface (71), the second convex surface (72), and the third convex surface (73) have the same radii of curvature, the illuminance of the first irradiation area (IR1) will be low and the illuminance of the third irradiation area (IR3) will be excessively high. This is because the first irradiation distance (L1) is longer than the third irradiation distance (L3). As a result, the illuminance of the irradiation area (IR) will be non-uniform, resulting in variations in the sterilization ability of the surface.

[0080] In consideration of this problem, the reflecting portion (70) of this embodiment is configured to satisfy the relationship: first radius of curvature (R1) > second radius of curvature (R2) > third radius of curvature (R3). With this configuration, ultraviolet light reflected by the first arcuate surface (81) does not spread significantly in the first direction. Therefore, the first length (D1) and thus the first area (S1) of the first irradiation region (IR1) are reduced, thereby increasing the density of ultraviolet light in the first irradiation region (IR1). As a result, the illuminance of the first irradiation region (IR1) can be increased. Conversely, ultraviolet light reflected by the third arcuate surface (83) spreads significantly in the first direction. Therefore, the third length (D3) and thus the third area (S3) of the third irradiation region (IR3) are increased, thereby decreasing the density of ultraviolet light in the third irradiation region (IR3). As a result, the illuminance of the third irradiation region (IR3) can be reduced. As described above, in this embodiment, the illuminance of the first irradiation area (IR1), the second irradiation area (IR2), and the third irradiation area (IR3) can be made uniform, so that the sterilization ability can be made uniform throughout the entire irradiation area (IR).

[0081] In addition, by increasing the first radius of curvature (R1) of the first arcuate surface (81), it is possible to prevent ultraviolet rays reflected by the first arcuate surface (81) from escaping from the front first heat exchange section (H1) or leaking outside the casing (31).

[0082] In addition, by reducing the third radius of curvature (R3) of the third arcuate surface (83), it is possible to prevent the irradiation area (IR) from becoming excessively narrow at a position close to the reflecting portion (70).

[0083] The reflecting portion (70) of this embodiment is configured to satisfy the relationship of fourth radius of curvature (R4) > fifth radius of curvature (R5) > sixth radius of curvature (R6). With this configuration, ultraviolet light reflected by the fourth arcuate surface (84) does not significantly expand in the second direction. Therefore, the first width (W1) and the first area (S1) of the first irradiation region (IR1) in the second direction are reduced, thereby increasing the density of ultraviolet light in the first irradiation region (IR1). As a result, the illuminance of the first irradiation region (IR1) can be increased. Conversely, ultraviolet light reflected by the third arcuate surface (83) significantly expands in the second direction. Therefore, the third width (W3) and the third area (S3) of the third irradiation region (IR3) are increased, thereby decreasing the density of ultraviolet light in the third irradiation region (IR3). As a result, the illuminance of the third irradiation region (IR3) can be reduced. As described above, in this embodiment, the illuminance of the first irradiation area (IR1), the second irradiation area (IR2), and the third irradiation area (IR3) can be made uniform, so that the sterilization ability can be made uniform throughout the entire irradiation area (IR).

[0084] In addition, by increasing the fourth radius of curvature (R4) of the fourth arcuate surface (84), it is possible to prevent ultraviolet rays reflected by the fourth arcuate surface (84) from escaping from the front first heat exchange section (H1) or leaking outside the casing (31).

[0085] In addition, by reducing the sixth radius of curvature (R6) of the sixth arcuate surface (86), it is possible to prevent the irradiation area (IR) from becoming excessively narrow at a position close to the reflecting portion (70).

[0086] (6) Effects of the embodiment (6-1) The air conditioner (10) includes an irradiation section (61) that irradiates ultraviolet rays toward the air flow path (34), and a reflection section (70) that magnifies and reflects the incident ultraviolet rays toward a component (the indoor heat exchanger (50)).

[0087] In this configuration, the irradiation unit (61) irradiates the air flow path (34) with ultraviolet light, thereby sterilizing the air in the air flow path (34). In addition, the reflection unit (70) reflects the ultraviolet light toward the indoor heat exchanger (50), thereby sterilizing the surface of the indoor heat exchanger (50). Changing the direction of the ultraviolet light irradiated by the irradiation unit (61) using the reflection unit (70) reduces restrictions on the layout of the components of the air conditioner (10), and allows sterilization of the surfaces of desired components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55).

[0088] Furthermore, the reflecting portion (70) expands the irradiation range of the reflected ultraviolet light, thereby forming a wide irradiation area (IR) on the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55). As a result, the number of irradiating portions (61) can be reduced. In this embodiment, only one irradiating portion (61) can sterilize the air in the air flow path (34) and the surfaces of the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55).

[0089] (6-2) The reflecting section (70) has arc-shaped convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to a second direction that is orthogonal to a first direction, which is the direction of ultraviolet light emitted by the irradiating section (61). This allows the reflecting section (70) to expand the ultraviolet light irradiation area (IR) in a predetermined direction (in this embodiment, the first direction).

[0090] In particular, the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) are formed in an arc shape when viewed in a cross section parallel to the second direction and including perpendicular lines (91, 92, 93) to the vertices of the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73). Therefore, the reflecting portion (70) can reflect radial ultraviolet light in both the first and second directions. As a result, the irradiation area (IR) of the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55) can be expanded in both the first and second directions.

[0091] (6-3) The radius of curvature of the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the second direction and including a perpendicular line (91, 92, 93) to the vertices of the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) is smaller than the radius of curvature when viewed in a cross section parallel to the second direction and including the perpendicular line (91, 92, 93) to the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73). This allows the irradiation area (IR) to be wider in the first direction than in the second direction. The indoor heat exchanger (50) has a rectangular outer shape that is longer in the second direction than in the first direction. This allows the irradiation area (IR) to be formed to match the shape of the indoor heat exchanger (50). This prevents the ultraviolet radiation irradiation range from being excessively wide, which would otherwise cause the ultraviolet radiation to leak to the outside. This prevents the ultraviolet radiation irradiation range from being excessively narrow, which would cause a local decrease in the sterilization ability of the surface of the indoor heat exchanger (50).

[0092] (6-4) The reflecting portion (70) has a first convex surface (71) and a second convex surface (72) as convex surfaces. The reflecting portion (70) further has a third convex surface (73). By providing the reflecting portion (70) with multiple convex surfaces (71, 72, 73), the irradiation range of ultraviolet light can be further expanded.

[0093] The first convex surface (71), the second convex surface (72), and the third convex surface (73) have different radii of curvature, so that ultraviolet light can be irradiated in accordance with the shape of the indoor heat exchanger (50).

[0094] When viewed in the second direction, the irradiation distance of the ultraviolet rays from the first convex surface (71) to the indoor heat exchanger (50) is longer than the irradiation distance of the ultraviolet rays from the second convex surface (72) to the indoor heat exchanger (50). When viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the second direction, the radius of curvature of the first convex surface (71) is larger than the radius of curvature of the second convex surface (72).

[0095] This makes it possible to uniform the illuminance in the first irradiation region (IR1) and the second irradiation region (IR2), thereby uniforming the sterilization ability in these regions. This prevents the irradiation range of the ultraviolet light reflected from the first convex surface (71) from becoming excessively wide. As a result, it is possible to prevent, for example, the ultraviolet light from hitting the irradiation unit (61), which would cause deterioration of the irradiation unit (61). This prevents the ultraviolet light from leaking outside the casing (31). This prevents the irradiation range of the ultraviolet light reflected from the second convex surface (72) from becoming excessively narrow, which would narrow the second irradiation region (IR2). The same applies to the relationship between the first convex surface (71) and the third convex surface (73) and the relationship between the second convex surface (72) and the third convex surface (73).

[0096] (6-5) The irradiation section (61) irradiates ultraviolet light in a first direction. When viewed in the first direction, the irradiation section (61) overlaps with the irradiation section (61). When viewed in the first direction, the irradiation section (61) does not overlap with a component (the indoor heat exchanger (50)). This configuration enables the irradiation section (61) to irradiate ultraviolet light along the irradiation region (IR) of the indoor heat exchanger (50). As a result, the ultraviolet light irradiated by the irradiation section (61) can be prevented from hitting the indoor heat exchanger (50). If the ultraviolet light from the irradiation section (61) hits the indoor heat exchanger (50), it becomes difficult for the ultraviolet light to reach the reflecting section (70), which reduces the ability to sterilize the air in the air flow path (34) and the ability to sterilize the surface of the indoor heat exchanger (50). In contrast, in this configuration, the ultraviolet light irradiated by the irradiating section (61) can be reliably delivered to the reflecting section (70), thereby improving both the ability to sterilize the air in the air flow path (34) and the ability to sterilize the surface of the indoor heat exchanger (50).

[0097] In particular, the irradiation unit (61) distributes the ultraviolet rays using a light distribution control unit such as a reflector (63) or a lens (64) to direct the ultraviolet rays and then sends them to the reflection unit (70), thereby more reliably preventing the ultraviolet rays from hitting the indoor heat exchanger (50).

[0098] (6-6) The length of the indoor heat exchanger (50) in a first direction is greater than the length of the indoor heat exchanger (50) in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. This increases the distance that the ultraviolet light emitted by the irradiation section (61) travels through the air flow path (34), thereby improving the ability to sterilize the air in the air flow path (34).

[0099] Furthermore, the reflecting portion (70) expands the irradiation range of the ultraviolet light in the first direction, thereby ensuring a sufficient irradiation area (IR) in the longitudinal direction of the indoor heat exchanger (50).

[0100] (6-7) The component is the indoor heat exchanger (50). Therefore, the surface of the indoor heat exchanger (50) can be sterilized by ultraviolet light.

[0101] (7) Variations The above-described embodiment may have the following configuration: Below, differences from the embodiment will be particularly described.

[0102] (7-1) Variation 1 In the reflecting portion (70) of the embodiment, the number of convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) may be one, two, or four or more.

[0103] When the number of convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) is two, the third convex surface (73) of the embodiment is omitted. When the number of convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) is four or more, the radii of curvature of the other convex surfaces may be set to obtain the same effects as those of the embodiment.

[0104] (7-2) Variation 2 As shown in FIG. 7, the reflecting portion (70) of the second modification has a concave surface (74), a flat surface (75), and a convex surface (for example, a third convex surface (73)).

[0105] In the reflecting portion (70), a third convex surface (73), a flat surface (75), and a concave surface (74) are arranged in this order from one end to the other end in the second direction. When viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the second direction, the concave surface (74) has an arc-shaped reflecting surface that is concave in the direction away from the indoor heat exchanger (50). The flat surface (75) has a flat reflecting surface facing the indoor heat exchanger (50).

[0106] The concave surface (74) reflects ultraviolet light along the fifth optical axis (A5). As a result, a fourth irradiation area (IR4) is formed in the indoor heat exchanger (50). The flat surface (75) reflects ultraviolet light along the sixth optical axis (A6). As a result, a fifth irradiation area (IR5) is formed in the indoor heat exchanger (50). The third convex surface (73), as in the embodiment, reflects ultraviolet light along the fourth optical axis (A4). As a result, a third irradiation area (IR3) is formed in the indoor heat exchanger (50).

[0107] In the second modification, a fourth irradiation region (IR4), a fifth irradiation region (IR5), and a third irradiation region (IR3) are formed in this order from one end to the other end in the first direction. The irradiation unit (60) is configured to satisfy the relationship of fourth irradiation distance (L4) > fifth irradiation distance (L5) > third irradiation distance (L3) when viewed in the second direction. The fourth irradiation distance (L4) is the length of a line connecting the midpoint of the concave surface (74) to the midpoint of the fourth irradiation region (IR4), in other words, the length of the fifth optical axis (A5). The fifth irradiation distance (L5) is the length of a line connecting the midpoint of the flat surface (75) to the midpoint of the fifth irradiation region (IR5), in other words, the length of the sixth optical axis (A6). The third irradiation distance (L3) is the length of a line connecting the midpoint of the third convex surface (73) to the midpoint of the third irradiation region (IR3), in other words, the length of the fourth optical axis (A4). Strictly speaking, the midpoint of the concave surface (74) is the center of the optically effective surface of the concave surface (74), the midpoint of the plane (75) is the center of the optically effective surface of the plane (75), and the midpoint of the third convex surface (73) is the center of the optically effective surface of the third convex surface (73).

[0108] As described above, the illuminance of the irradiation area decreases as the irradiation distance increases. In contrast, in Modification 2, the reflective surface on the side where the irradiation distance is longer is a concave surface (74), which further reduces the ultraviolet ray density in the fourth irradiation area (IR4) corresponding to the concave surface (74). In Modification 2, the reflective surface on the side where the irradiation distance is shorter is a convex surface (third convex surface (73)), which increases the ultraviolet ray density in the third irradiation area (IR3) corresponding to the third convex surface (73). As a result, the illuminance can be made uniform throughout the entire irradiation area (IR). The flat surface (75) reflects ultraviolet ray in a direction different from the third convex surface (73) and the concave surface (74), which contributes to expanding the irradiation range of ultraviolet ray in the first direction.

[0109] In the second modification, the reflecting portion (70) may be configured to have only two of the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73), the flat surface (75), and the concave surface (74). In this case, the number of the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73), the flat surface (75), and the concave surface (74) is not limited to one, and may be two or more.

[0110] The reflecting portion (70) may have a concave surface in the shape of an inverted arc when viewed from the B cross section.

[0111] (7-3) Variation 3 The third modification is different from the embodiment in the component to be irradiated. As shown in Fig. 8, the component is the indoor fan (42). The irradiation unit (60) of the third modification is disposed between the indoor heat exchanger (50) and the indoor fan (42). The irradiation unit (60) forms an irradiation region (IR) upstream of the indoor fan (42).

[0112] Specifically, the irradiating section (61) irradiates ultraviolet light in a first direction, which is the longitudinal direction of the indoor fan (42). The reflecting section (70) reflects the ultraviolet light irradiated by the irradiating section (61) toward the indoor fan (42). In particular, the reflecting section (70) expands the irradiation range of the ultraviolet light in the longitudinal direction of the indoor fan (42), as in the embodiment.

[0113] The irradiation unit (60) may irradiate other components. The components may be other parts of the indoor heat exchanger (50) (such as the front second heat exchange section (H2) or the rear heat exchange section), the drain pan (43), the scroll wall (35), the air filter (41), or the flap (44). The components are preferably shaped such that the first direction is the longitudinal direction.

[0114] (7-4) Variation 4 As shown in FIG. 9 , the indoor unit (30) of the fourth modification is a ceiling-mounted type. The indoor unit (30) is installed above the ceiling. The indoor unit (30) has a rectangular parallelepiped casing (31). The height of the casing (31) is shorter than the length of the casing (31) in the front-rear direction or the left-right direction. An inlet (32) is formed at the rear side of the casing (31), and an outlet (33) is formed at the front side of the casing (31). An air flow path (34) is formed from the inlet (32) to the outlet (33). The air flowing out of the outlet (33) is supplied to the indoor space (I) through a duct.

[0115] An air supply fan (46), a heat utilization heat exchanger (55), and a drain pan (43) are arranged in the air flow path (34). The air supply fan (46) is located upstream of the heat utilization heat exchanger (55) in the air flow direction. The air supply fan (46) is a centrifugal fan, for example, a sirocco fan. The heat utilization heat exchanger (55) exchanges heat between the air and the refrigerant. The drain pan (43) is arranged below the heat utilization heat exchanger (55). The longitudinal direction of the heat utilization heat exchanger (55) and the drain pan (43) is the left-right direction. This longitudinal direction corresponds to the first direction.

[0116] The irradiation unit (60) is disposed between the intake air fan (46) and the utilization heat exchanger (55). The irradiation section (61) is supported on one end side in the first direction, specifically, on the inner surface on the left side of the casing (31). The reflection section (70) (not shown) is supported on the other end side in the first direction, specifically, on the inner surface on the left side of the casing (31). The irradiation section (61) irradiates ultraviolet light in the first direction toward the air flow path (34). The reflection section (70) magnifies and reflects the ultraviolet light toward the utilization heat exchanger (55). In the fourth modification, an irradiation area (IR) is formed on the inlet surface of the utilization heat exchanger (55).

[0117] In a fourth modification, the irradiation unit (60) may be disposed downstream of the utilization heat exchanger (55). In this case, the reflector (70) forms an irradiation area (IR) on the outflow surface of the utilization heat exchanger (55). The reflector (70) may irradiate ultraviolet light onto the air supply fan (46), the drain pan (43), or the drain pump, which are components of the utilization heat exchanger (55).

[0118] (7-5) Variation 5 In the fifth modification shown in FIG. 10 , the irradiation unit (60) includes an auxiliary reflecting section (90). The auxiliary reflecting section (90) has a reflective surface and reflects ultraviolet light emitted by the irradiation section (61) toward the reflecting section (70). In the fifth modification, the direction in which the irradiation section (61) emits ultraviolet light differs from the direction in which the ultraviolet light enters the reflecting section (70). In other words, the first direction in the fifth modification corresponds to the direction in which the ultraviolet light enters the reflecting section (70) but does not correspond to the direction in which the ultraviolet light is emitted by the irradiation section (61). The reflecting section (70) reflects the ultraviolet light emitted by the irradiation section (61) toward a component (e.g., the indoor heat exchanger (50)) indirectly, rather than directly. The number of auxiliary reflecting sections (90) interposed between the irradiation unit (60) and the reflecting section (70) may be two or more, rather than one.

[0119] (8) Other embodiments 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. 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.

[0120] The reflecting portion (70) does not necessarily have to have convex surfaces (71, 72, 73). In this case, the reflecting portion (70) may have, as reflecting surfaces, first and second flat surfaces that reflect ultraviolet light at different angles. The reflecting portion (70) may have only two or more concave surfaces. In this case, when viewed in the second direction, it is preferable that the irradiation distance of ultraviolet light from the first concave surface to the component is longer than the irradiation distance of ultraviolet light from the second concave surface to the component, and that the absolute value of the radius of curvature of the first concave surface is greater than the absolute value of the radius of curvature of the second convex surface when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the second direction. The convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) and concave surfaces do not necessarily have to be spherical and may be aspherical.

[0121] The irradiation unit 61 may have another light source 62 such as a laser. The light distribution control unit of the irradiation unit 61 may be only a reflector 63, only a lens 64, or another element that can distribute the ultraviolet light from the LED 62.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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]

[0125] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY As described above, the present disclosure is useful for air conditioning apparatuses. [Explanation of symbols]

[0126] 10 Air conditioning equipment 31 Casing 34 Air flow path 35 Scroll Wall (Component) 43 Drain pan (component) 50 Indoor heat exchanger (component) 55 Utilization heat exchanger (component) 61 Irradiation unit 70 Reflector 71 First convex surface (convex surface) 72 Second convex surface (convex surface) 74 Concave

Claims

1. a casing (31) having an air flow path (34) through which air flows; Components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55) disposed in the air flow path (34); an irradiation section (61) that irradiates ultraviolet light toward the air flow path (34); a reflecting section (70) that reflects the incident ultraviolet light in an expanded manner toward the component parts (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55). Air conditioning equipment.

2. The reflecting portion (70) has arc-shaped convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to a second direction perpendicular to a first direction in which ultraviolet light is incident. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) are formed in an arc shape when viewed in a cross section that is parallel to the second direction and includes a perpendicular line (91, 92, 93) to the vertices of the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73). The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) have a radius of curvature when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the second direction and including a perpendicular line (91, 92, 93) to the vertices of the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73) that is smaller than a radius of curvature when viewed in a cross section parallel to the second direction and including the perpendicular line (91, 92, 93) to the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73). The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 3.

5. The reflecting portion (70) has a first convex surface (71) and a second convex surface (72) as the convex surfaces (71, 72, 73). The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 2.

6. When viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the second direction, the radius of curvature of the first convex surface (71) is different from the radius of curvature of the second convex surface (72). The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 5.

7. When viewed in the second direction, the irradiation distance of the ultraviolet light from the first convex surface (71) to the component (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55) is longer than the irradiation distance of the ultraviolet light from the second convex surface (72) to the component (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55), When viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the second direction, the radius of curvature of the first convex surface (71) is larger than the radius of curvature of the second convex surface (72). The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 6.

8. The reflecting portion (70) has a concave surface (74) that is concave when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the second direction, When viewed in the second direction, the irradiation distance of the ultraviolet light from the concave surface (74) to the component (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55) is longer than the irradiation distance of the ultraviolet light from the convex surface (71, 72, 73) to the component (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55). The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 2.

9. the irradiation section (61) is configured to irradiate ultraviolet light in the first direction toward the reflection section (70); the irradiating portion (61) overlaps with the reflecting portion (70) in the first direction, The irradiation portion (61) does not overlap with the components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55) when viewed in the first direction. The air conditioning apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 8.

10. The length of the component (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55) in the first direction is greater than the length of the component (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55) in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 9.

11. The irradiation section (61) is arranged on one end side of the air flow path (34) in the first direction, The reflecting portion (70) is disposed on the other end side of the air flow path (34) in the first direction. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 9.

12. The components (35, 42, 43, 46, 50, 55) include a heat exchanger (50, 55), a fan (42, 46), a drain pan (43), or a scroll wall (35). An air conditioning apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

Images