Outdoor unit and method for assembling the outdoor unit

Abstract

It detects refrigerant leaks with high accuracy. [Solution] The outdoor unit comprises a casing, refrigerant piping, a refrigerant detection sensor, an opening that connects the inside and outside of the casing, a piping connection part, a first cover, and a second cover. The refrigerant piping is arranged inside the casing. Refrigerant flows through the refrigerant piping. The refrigerant detection sensor is arranged inside the casing. The opening that connects the inside and outside of the casing is formed on the side of the casing. The piping connection part connects the refrigerant piping and the connecting piping extending from the indoor unit. The first cover has a first part, a second part, and a connecting part. The second cover covers the first cover. The connecting part is arranged between the first part and the second part. The first cover covers the opening and the piping connection part. The first part and the second part of the first cover can be opened and closed by relative movement via the connecting part.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] It relates to an outdoor unit and a method for assembling the outdoor unit.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 (International Publication No. 2022 / 107220) describes an air conditioner using a flammable or slightly flammable refrigerant.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] In recent years, among flammable refrigerants, highly flammable refrigerants that are particularly easy to burn may be used in air conditioners. When a high-concentration highly flammable refrigerant leaks from the refrigerant circuit of an air conditioner, it is required to detect the refrigerant leakage with high accuracy.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] The outdoor unit according to the first aspect includes a casing, a refrigerant pipe, a refrigerant detection sensor, an opening that communicates the inside and outside of the casing, a pipe connection portion, a first cover, and a second cover. The refrigerant pipe is disposed inside the casing. The refrigerant flows inside the refrigerant pipe. The refrigerant detection sensor is disposed inside the casing. The opening that communicates the inside and outside of the casing is formed on the side surface of the casing. The pipe connection portion connects the refrigerant pipe and a communication pipe extending from the indoor unit. The first cover has a first part, a second part, and a connecting portion. The connecting portion is disposed between the first part and the second part. The first cover covers the opening and the pipe connection portion. The second cover covers the first cover. The first part and the second part of the first cover can be opened and closed by relatively moving through the connecting portion.

[0005] According to this outdoor unit, refrigerant leakage can be detected with high accuracy.

[0006] The outdoor unit according to the second aspect is the outdoor unit according to the first aspect, wherein the connecting portion has a rotation structure.

[0007] The outdoor unit in the third viewpoint is the outdoor unit in the first or second viewpoint, with the piping connection part and the side of the casing separated.

[0008] The outdoor unit in the fourth view is an outdoor unit from either the first or third view, further comprising a shut-off valve. The shut-off valve opens and closes the refrigerant circuit. The shut-off valve is covered by a first cover.

[0009] The outdoor unit in the fifth view is an outdoor unit in any of the first or fourth views, wherein the first cover has reinforcing members that extend across the opposing inner wall surfaces of the first part.

[0010] The outdoor unit in the sixth view is an outdoor unit from either the first view or the fifth view, wherein the bottom of the first cover has an inclined portion that slopes downward toward the casing.

[0011] The outdoor unit of the seventh viewpoint is the outdoor unit of the fourth viewpoint, further comprising a terminal block. The terminal block is located on the side of the casing. The terminal block is positioned above the shut-off valve.

[0012] The outdoor unit in the eighth viewpoint is an outdoor unit from either the first viewpoint or the seventh viewpoint, and the connecting piping extends along the side of the casing.

[0013] The outdoor unit of the ninth view is an outdoor unit of any of the first to eighth views, further comprising a machine room and a blower room within the casing. The blower room has a fan. An opening is located between the machine room and the piping connection. The opening is configured so that air is drawn into the blower room by the fan.

[0014] The outdoor unit in the tenth viewpoint is an outdoor unit from either the first viewpoint or the ninth viewpoint, and the total area of ​​the openings is greater than the total area of ​​other gaps between the first cover and the casing.

[0015] The outdoor unit of the 11th viewpoint is the outdoor unit of the 4th viewpoint, further comprising a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor is positioned between the shut-off valve and the piping connection.

[0016] The assembly method for the outdoor unit in the 12th perspective is the assembly method for the outdoor unit in either the 1st perspective or the 11th perspective. The assembly method for the outdoor unit comprises the steps of attaching the first part with the first cover open, connecting the refrigerant piping, and closing the first cover. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioner 100. [Figure 2A] This is a perspective view showing the exterior of the outdoor unit 10 with the second cover 58 removed. [Figure 2B] This is a perspective view showing the outdoor unit 10 with the second cover 58 attached. [Figure 3] This is a schematic front view showing the structure of the outdoor unit 10. [Figure 4] This is a side view of the outdoor unit 10 with the first cover 40 removed. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of the vicinity of the first cover 40 of the casing 50 of the outdoor unit 10. [Figure 6] This is a magnified view of the area around the first cover 40 of the outdoor unit 10. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart showing the assembly method for the outdoor unit 10. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0018] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. These embodiments are essentially preferred examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, its applications, or its uses. Furthermore, the embodiments, modifications, and other examples described below can be combined or partially replaced to the extent that the present disclosure is implementable.

[0019] (1) Overall structure An outdoor unit 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is used in an air conditioner. FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an air conditioner 100 having the outdoor unit 10. The air conditioner 100 provides cold or heat obtained from a heat source to a user by circulating a refrigerant. The air conditioner 100 provides cold heat to the user in a cold heat utilization operation. The air conditioner 100 provides hot heat to the user in a hot heat utilization operation. The air conditioner 100 can be configured in forms such as an air conditioner, a refrigerator, a freezer, a water heater, a floor heating device, and the like. When the air conditioner 100 is an air conditioner, the cold heat utilization operation and the hot heat utilization operation correspond to a cooling operation and a heating operation, respectively.

[0020] The air conditioner 100 includes an outdoor unit 10, an indoor unit 20, and a communication pipe 30. When the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 are connected by the communication pipe 30, a refrigerant circulation path is formed. The refrigerant is a highly flammable refrigerant. Examples of the highly flammable refrigerant include R290 (propane), R50 (methane), R170 (ethane), R600 (butane), and R1270 (propylene).

[0021] The communication pipe 30 has a liquid communication pipe 31 and a gas communication pipe 32. The liquid communication pipe 31 mainly allows a refrigerant in a liquid state or a gas-liquid two-phase state to pass through. The liquid communication pipe 31 connects the liquid shut-off valve 17 and the utilization heat exchanger 23. The gas communication pipe 32 mainly allows a refrigerant in a high-pressure gas state or a low-pressure gas state to pass through. The gas communication pipe 32 connects the gas shut-off valve 18 and the utilization heat exchanger 23.

[0022] (2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Outdoor unit 10 The outdoor unit 10 obtains cooling or heating from the air, which is the heat source. The outdoor unit 10 includes a casing 50, refrigerant piping 90, a compressor 11, a four-way switching valve 12, a heat source heat exchanger 13, a heat source fan 14, a heat source expansion valve 15, an accumulator 16, a liquid shut-off valve 17, a gas shut-off valve 18, a refrigerant detection sensor 94, a heat source control unit 19, an opening O (shown in Figures 4 and 5) that connects the inside and outside of the casing 50, a piping connection section 80, a first cover 40, and a second cover 58 (shown in Figure 2B). Each component is connected by the refrigerant piping 90.

[0023] (2-1-1) Casing 50 The casing 50 houses the components of the outdoor unit 10, including the compressor 11. As shown in Figure 2A, the casing 50 has a top plate 51, a bottom plate 52, a first side plate 53, a second side plate 54, a front plate 55, a rear plate 56, and a front grille 57. The front grille 57 can be considered to be part of the front plate 55.

[0024] The top plate 51 and the bottom plate 52 both extend in the horizontal longitudinal direction x and the horizontal short direction y of the casing 50. The first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 both extend in the horizontal short direction y and the vertical direction z. The front plate 55 and the rear plate 56 both extend in the horizontal longitudinal direction x and the vertical direction z.

[0025] The first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 are separated in the horizontal longitudinal direction x of the casing 50. The front plate 55 and the rear plate 56 are separated in the horizontal short direction y of the casing 50. The second side plate 54 has an opening O. A connecting pipe 30 extends along the second side plate 54. More preferably, after the connecting pipe 30 extends along the second side plate 54, it extends towards the rear of the casing 50.

[0026] As shown in Figure 3, the casing 50 has an internal space S. The internal space S is provided with a first partition plate 60 and a second partition plate 70. The first partition plate 60 is a plate-like member that extends horizontally, although it has irregularities or openings. The first partition plate 60 divides the internal space S into an upper space S1 and a lower space S2. The second partition plate 70 is a plate-like member that extends vertically. The second partition plate 70 divides the lower space S2 into a blower room S3 and a machine room S4. The blower room S3 is located on the side of the first side plate 53. The machine room S4 is located on the side of the second side plate 54. The height of casing 50 is 580-720 mm, the depth is 270-330 mm, and the width is 780-860 mm.

[0027] (2-1-2) Refrigerant piping 90 As shown in Figure 1, the refrigerant piping 90 includes liquid refrigerant piping 91 and gaseous refrigerant piping 92. Liquid refrigerant piping 91 mainly passes refrigerant in a liquid state or a gas-liquid two-phase state. Liquid refrigerant piping 91 connects liquid shut-off valve 17 to heat source heat exchanger 13. Gaseous refrigerant piping 92 mainly passes refrigerant in a high-pressure gas state or a low-pressure gas state. Gaseous refrigerant piping 92 connects gas shut-off valve 18 to heat source heat exchanger 13.

[0028] (2-1-3) Compressor 11 The compressor 11 has an intake pipe 11a and a discharge pipe 11b. The compressor 11 draws in refrigerant in a low-pressure gas state from the intake pipe 11a, compresses the refrigerant, and discharges the refrigerant in a high-pressure gas state from the discharge pipe 11b. As shown in Figure 3, the compressor 11 is located in the machine room S4 of the lower space S2.

[0029] (2-1-4) Four-way switching valve 12 The four-way switching valve 12 switches between cooling operation and heating operation by switching the direction of refrigerant flow. When operating in cooling operation mode, the four-way switching valve 12 forms the connection shown by the solid line in Figure 1 and directs the refrigerant in the direction indicated by arrow CO. When operating in heating operation mode, the four-way switching valve 12 forms the connection shown by the dashed line in Figure 1 and directs the refrigerant in the direction indicated by arrow HO. The four-way switching valve 12 is located in the machine room S4 of the lower space S2.

[0030] (2-1-5) Heat source heat exchanger 13 The heat source heat exchanger 13 performs heat exchange between the air, which is the heat source, and the refrigerant, thereby allowing the refrigerant to acquire cooling or heating energy. When operating for cooling, the heat source heat exchanger 13 functions as a condenser or heat radiator for the refrigerant, allowing the refrigerant to acquire cooling energy. When operating for heating, the heat source heat exchanger 13 functions as an evaporator or heat absorber for the refrigerant, allowing the refrigerant to acquire heating energy. As shown in Figure 3, the heat source heat exchanger 13 is located in the fan chamber S3 of the lower space S2.

[0031] (2-1-6) Heat source fan 14 The heat source fan 14 promotes heat exchange between air and refrigerant by generating an airflow that passes through the heat source heat exchanger 13. The heat source fan 14 has heat source fan blades 141 and a heat source fan motor 142. The heat source fan blades 141 generate an airflow. The heat source fan motor 142 rotates the heat source fan blades 141. The heat source fan 14 is located in the blower chamber S3 of the lower space S2.

[0032] (2-1-7) Heat source expansion valve 15 The heat source expansion valve 15 reduces the pressure of the refrigerant. The heat source expansion valve 15 is composed of an electrically operated valve whose opening degree can be adjusted. When the opening degree of the heat source expansion valve 15 is set to a small value, the amount of refrigerant that can pass through the heat source expansion valve 15 decreases, and the pressure of the refrigerant after passing through the heat source expansion valve 15 decreases. The heat source expansion valve 15 is located in the machine room S4 of the lower space S2.

[0033] (2-1-8) Accumulator 16 The accumulator 16 stores only the liquid component of the refrigerant inside, allowing only the gaseous component to pass through. The accumulator 16 is connected to the suction pipe 11a of the compressor 11 to prevent the liquid component of the refrigerant from damaging the compressor 11. The accumulator 16 is located in the machine room S4 of the lower space S2.

[0034] (2-1-9) Liquid shut-off valve 17 and gas shut-off valve 18 The liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18 open and close the refrigerant circuit.

[0035] The liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18 are located outside the casing 50, near the second side plate 54 of the casing 50. The liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18 are located between the machine room S4 and the piping connection 80. The liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18 are covered by the first cover 40.

[0036] Liquid refrigerant piping 91 and gas refrigerant piping 92 are connected to the liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18, respectively. Liquid connecting piping 31 and gas connecting piping 32 are connected to the liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18, respectively.

[0037] The liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18 are for shutting off the movement of refrigerant during installation work of the air conditioner 100. The liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18 are opened and closed manually by the air conditioner 100 installer.

[0038] (2-1-10) Refrigerant detection sensor 94 The refrigerant detection sensor 94 is located inside the casing 50. More specifically, the refrigerant detection sensor 94 is located in the lower part of the machine room S4 inside the casing 50.

[0039] The refrigerant detection sensor 94 detects refrigerant leaking from the refrigerant circuit that makes up the outdoor unit 10. Since the refrigerant detection sensor 94 is located at the bottom of the machine room S4, it is easier for the sensor to quickly detect leaked refrigerant, which has a higher specific gravity than air.

[0040] (2-1-11) Opening O As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the opening O is formed on the side of the casing 50. The opening O is configured so that air is drawn into the blower room S3 by a fan. In detail, the opening O is formed at the bottom of the second side plate 54 of the casing 50. Therefore, if refrigerant, which has a higher specific gravity than air, leaks, the leaked refrigerant is more easily guided to the machine room S4 by passing through the opening O formed at the bottom of the casing 50.

[0041] The shape of the opening O is not particularly limited. The shape of the opening O may be a rounded rectangle as shown in Figure 5, or any other shape such as a slit. The opening O connects the inside and outside of the casing 50.

[0042] Multiple openings O exist between the machine room S4 and the piping connection section 80. The total area of ​​the openings O is greater than the total area of ​​other gaps between the first cover 40 and the casing 50.

[0043] The area of ​​the opening O is larger than the total area of ​​the other gaps between the first cover 40 and the casing 50.

[0044] (2-1-12) Pipe connection part 80 As shown in Figures 1 and 4, the piping connection section 80 connects the refrigerant piping 90 to the connecting piping 30 extending from the indoor unit 20.

[0045] The pipe connection portion 80 and the side surface of the second side plate 54 of the casing 50 are spaced apart.

[0046] The pipe connection portion 80 and the opening O are opposite each other. More specifically, in a side view when the outdoor unit 10 is viewed from the longitudinal direction, the pipe connection portion 80 overlaps with the opening O at least partially.

[0047] (2-1-13) Cover 1, page 40 As shown in Figure 6, the first cover 40 is positioned on the lower outside of the second side plate 54 of the casing 50. The first cover 40 is positioned to cover both the opening O of the casing 50 and the piping connection portion 80. In a side view when viewed from the longitudinal direction of the outdoor unit 10, the first cover 40 is positioned to completely cover the opening O of the casing 50. However, if the bottom plate 52 of the casing 50 overlaps the lower part of the opening O, the first cover 40 does not need to cover the lower part of the opening O. In this case, the lower part of the first cover 40 covers the upper part of the bottom plate 52.

[0048] The first cover 40 fills the interior with refrigerant leaking from the piping connection 80 and guides the leaked refrigerant to the machine room S4 through the opening O of the casing 50. The opening O is formed at the bottom of the side of the casing 50, and the refrigerant detection sensor 94 is also located at the bottom of the machine room S4 inside the casing 50. Therefore, the leaked refrigerant guided to the first cover 40 can be detected quickly.

[0049] The material of the first cover 40 is not particularly limited, but for example, it may be resin.

[0050] The first cover 40 has a first part 41, a second part 42, and a connecting part 43. The first part 41 and the second part 42 can be opened and closed by relative movement via the connecting part 43.

[0051] The first part 41 is fixed to the side surface of the second side plate 54 of the casing 50. The method of fixing the first part 41 is not particularly limited, but for example, tabs are provided on the side of the first part 41 facing the second side plate 54. As shown in Figure 4, small holes O1 are made in the second side plate 54. In this embodiment, there are four tabs and four holes O1. The first part 41 can be fixed by hooking each tab into a hole O1.

[0052] As shown in Figures 2A and 6, the second part 42 can be opened and closed relative to the first part 41 by the connecting part 43. Figure 2A shows the second part 42 in the closed position relative to the first part 41. Figure 6 shows the second part 42 in the open position relative to the first part 41.

[0053] The connecting portion 43 is positioned between the first portion 41 and the second portion 42. The connecting portion 43 has a rotating structure. More specifically, the connecting portion 43 is a hinge.

[0054] The first cover 40 has a connecting hole 46 on its side for passing the connecting pipe 30 through. The connecting hole 46 connects the inside and outside of the first cover 40. The connecting hole 46 is formed by a part of the first part 41 and a part of the second part 42. The connecting hole 46 is formed when the first part 41 and the second part 42 are joined together.

[0055] The first cover 40 further includes a pressure sensor cover portion 47. The pressure sensor cover portion 47 covers the pressure sensor 95.

[0056] The first cover 40 further includes a reinforcing member 44. The reinforcing member 44 extends across the opposing inner wall surfaces of the first part 41. The reinforcing member 44 may transversely connect one side of the first part 41 to a pressure sensor cover portion 47 located near the opposite side. The reinforcing member 44 may directly connect one side of the first part 41 of the first cover 40 to the opposite side.

[0057] The bottom of the first cover 40 has an inclined portion 45. The inclined portion 45 slopes downward toward the casing 50.

[0058] (2-1-14) Cover 2, page 58 As shown in Figure 2B, the second cover 58 covers the first cover 40. The second cover 58 may also cover the entire side of the casing 50 on the side of the second side plate 54. The second cover 58 may also cover the terminal block 88.

[0059] The second cover 58 is removable. Figure 2B is a perspective view showing the second cover 58 attached to the perspective view in Figure 2A.

[0060] (2-1-15) Pressure sensor 95 The pressure sensor 95 is positioned between the gas shut-off valve 18 and the pipe connection 80. The pressure sensor 95 measures the pressure inside the connecting pipe 30.

[0061] (2-1-16) Terminal block 88 The terminal block 88 is positioned above the liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18. The terminal block 88 is the part where wiring for inputting AC power from the AC power source is connected.

[0062] (2-1-17) Heat source control unit 19 As shown in Figure 1, the heat source control unit 19 is a computer that performs various calculations. The heat source control unit 19 acquires signals from various sensors, including a refrigerant detection sensor 94, as well as a temperature sensor or a pressure sensor 95. Furthermore, the heat source control unit 19 controls actuators mounted on the compressor 11, the four-way switching valve 12, the heat source fan 14, the heat source expansion valve 15, and other components.

[0063] (2-2) Indoor unit 20 The indoor unit 20 provides the user with the cooling or heating obtained by the outdoor unit 10 from the heat source. The indoor unit 20 has a casing 21, a heat exchanger 23, and a fan 24.

[0064] A connecting pipe 30 extends from the indoor unit 20 towards the outdoor unit 10.

[0065] (2-2-1) Casing 21 The casing 21 houses the components of the indoor unit 20, including the heat exchanger 23.

[0066] (2-2-2) Utilized heat exchanger 23 The utilization heat exchanger 23 provides cooling or heating to the user by exchanging heat between the air in the user's environment or a refrigerant such as water used by the user. When operating for cooling, the utilization heat exchanger 23 functions as an evaporator or absorber for the refrigerant, providing cooling to the user. When operating for heating, the utilization heat exchanger 23 functions as an evaporator or absorber for the refrigerant, providing heating to the user.

[0067] (2-2-3) Use Fan 24 The utilization fan 24 is provided when the user utilizes cooling or heating through the air. The utilization fan 24 promotes heat exchange between the air and the refrigerant by generating an airflow that passes through the utilization heat exchanger 23.

[0068] (2-2-4) User control unit 29 The utilization control unit 29 is a computer that performs various calculations. The utilization control unit 29 acquires signals from various sensors. Furthermore, the utilization control unit 29 controls the motor mounted on the utilization fan 24. In addition, the utilization control unit 29 exchanges information with the heat source control unit 19 by communicating with it.

[0069] (3) Assembly method of the outdoor unit 10 As shown in Figure 7, the assembly method for the outdoor unit 10 comprises a first step ST1, a second step ST2, and a third step ST3.

[0070] In the first step ST1, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the first part 41 is attached to the outside of the second side plate 54 of the casing 50 with the first cover 40 open. The tabs of the first part 41 are hooked into the hole O1 of the casing 50. At this time, the first part 41 is attached so as to surround the entire opening O of the casing 50.

[0071] In the second step ST2, the refrigerant piping 90, which includes the liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18, is connected to the connecting piping 30. The pipe connection portion 80 between the refrigerant piping 90 and the connecting piping 30 is housed within the area enclosed by the first part 41. The connecting piping 30 is aligned with the connecting hole 46 portion of the first part 41.

[0072] In the third step ST3, the first cover 40 is closed as shown in Figure 2A. At this time, the connecting pipe 30 is sandwiched in place of the connecting hole 46. This forms the connecting hole 46, and the connecting pipe 30 connects the inside and outside of the first cover 40.

[0073] (4) Overall operation (4-1)Cold heat utilization operation When operating using refrigeration, the four-way switching valve 12 forms the connection shown by the solid line in Figure 1, and the refrigerant is directed in the direction indicated by the arrow CO.

[0074] The compressor 11 draws in refrigerant in a low-pressure gaseous state through the suction pipe 11a and discharges refrigerant in a high-pressure gaseous state through the discharge pipe 11b. The high-pressure gaseous refrigerant passes through the four-way switching valve 12 and reaches the heat source heat exchanger 13. In the heat source heat exchanger 13, the coldness of the air condenses the refrigerant, generating high-pressure liquid refrigerant. The high-pressure liquid refrigerant is depressurized in the heat source expansion valve 15, becoming a gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant. Subsequently, the refrigerant passes through the liquid shut-off valve 17 and the liquid connecting pipe 31 and reaches the utilization heat exchanger 23. The utilization heat exchanger 23 evaporates the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, providing the coldness carried by the refrigerant to the user and generating low-pressure gaseous refrigerant. Subsequently, the refrigerant passes through the gas connecting pipe 32, the gas shut-off valve 18, the four-way switching valve 12, and the accumulator 16 in order, before being drawn into the compressor 11 through the suction pipe 11a.

[0075] (4-2) Operation utilizing thermal energy When operating for thermal energy utilization, the four-way switching valve 12 forms the connection shown by the dashed line in Figure 1, and the refrigerant is directed in the direction indicated by the arrow HO.

[0076] The compressor 11 draws in low-pressure gaseous refrigerant through the intake pipe 11a and discharges high-pressure gaseous refrigerant through the discharge pipe 11b. The high-pressure gaseous refrigerant passes sequentially through the four-way switching valve 12, the gas shut-off valve 18, and the gas connecting pipe 32 to reach the utilization heat exchanger 23. The utilization heat exchanger 23 condenses the high-pressure gaseous refrigerant, providing the heat carried by the refrigerant to the user and generating high-pressure liquid refrigerant. Subsequently, the refrigerant passes through the liquid connecting pipe 31 and the liquid shut-off valve 17 to reach the heat source expansion valve 15. The high-pressure liquid refrigerant is depressurized in the heat source expansion valve 15 and becomes a gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant. Subsequently, the refrigerant reaches the heat source heat exchanger 13. In the heat source heat exchanger 13, the heat from the air evaporates the refrigerant, generating low-pressure gaseous refrigerant. Subsequently, the refrigerant passes through the four-way switching valve 12 and the accumulator 16 in sequence before being drawn into the compressor 11 in the suction pipe 11a.

[0077] (5) Characteristics (5-1) The outdoor unit 10 comprises a casing 50, refrigerant piping 90, a refrigerant detection sensor 94, an opening O connecting the inside and outside of the casing 50, a piping connection part 80, a first cover 40, and a second cover 58. The casing 50 has a second side plate 54. The refrigerant piping 90 is arranged inside the casing 50. Refrigerant flows through the refrigerant piping 90. The refrigerant detection sensor 94 is located inside the casing 50. The opening O connecting the inside and outside of the casing 50 is formed on the side of the casing 50. The piping connection part 80 connects the refrigerant piping 90 to a connecting pipe 30 extending from the indoor unit 20. The first cover 40 has a first part 41, a second part 42, and a connecting part 43. The connecting part 43 is located between the first part 41 and the second part 42. The first cover 40 covers the opening O and the piping connection part 80. The second cover 58 covers the second side plate 54 and the first cover 40. The first part 41 and the second part 42 can be opened and closed by moving relative to each other via the connecting part 43.

[0078] Refrigerant leakage may occur at the pipe connection 80. In this embodiment, the outdoor unit 10 has a first cover 40 that covers the area around the pipe connection 80. As a result, even if refrigerant leaks at the pipe connection 80, the first cover 40 prevents the refrigerant from going out of the outdoor unit 10, but draws it into the outdoor unit 10. Therefore, a refrigerant with a high concentration can be quickly detected by the refrigerant detection sensor 94 located inside the casing 50. As a result, refrigerant leakage can be detected with high accuracy.

[0079] Furthermore, since the first cover 40 is equipped with a connecting portion 43, maintainability and workability are improved.

[0080] (5-2) The connecting portion 43 of the first cover 40 has a rotating structure.

[0081] In this configuration, the connecting part 43 has a hinge-like rotating structure, making it easy to open and close.

[0082] (5-3) The pipe connection portion 80 and the second side plate 54 of the casing 50 are spaced apart.

[0083] In this configuration, the pipe connection portion 80 and the second side plate 54 of the casing 50 are spaced apart, which improves workability.

[0084] (5-4) The opening O on the side of the casing 50 and the pipe connection portion 80 are positioned to overlap at least partially.

[0085] In this configuration, when a refrigerant leak occurs at the pipe connection 80, the leaked refrigerant can be quickly drawn into the casing 50.

[0086] (5-5) The outdoor unit 10 further comprises a liquid shut-off valve 17 and a gas shut-off valve 18. The liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18 open and close the refrigerant circuit. The liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18 are covered by a first cover 40.

[0087] In this configuration, the liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18 can be covered by the first cover 40.

[0088] (5-6) The first cover 40 has reinforcing members 44 that extend across the opposing inner wall surfaces of the first part 41.

[0089] In this configuration, the strength of the first cover 40 can be increased.

[0090] (5-7) The bottom of the first cover 40 has an inclined portion 45 that slopes downward toward the casing 50.

[0091] In this configuration, leaked refrigerant can be easily drawn into the outdoor unit 10.

[0092] (5-8) The outdoor unit 10 further includes a terminal block 88. The terminal block 88 is located on the side of the casing 50. The terminal block 88 is positioned above the liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18.

[0093] In this configuration, the terminal block 88 is positioned above the liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18, so even if refrigerant leakage occurs, it is possible to prevent the leaked refrigerant from reaching the terminal block 88.

[0094] (5-9) The connecting pipe 30 extends along the side of the casing 50.

[0095] In this configuration, the space required in the width direction of the outdoor unit 10 can be reduced.

[0096] (5-10) The outdoor unit 10 further comprises a machine room S4 and a blower room S3 within the casing 50. The blower room S3 has a heat source fan 14. An opening O is located between the machine room S4 and the piping connection section 80. The opening O is configured so that air is drawn into the blower room by the fan.

[0097] In this configuration, if a refrigerant leak occurs, the leaked refrigerant drawn into the outdoor unit 10 is agitated and diluted by the airflow generated by the heat source fan 14. As a result, the outflow of high-concentration refrigerant to the outside of the outdoor unit 10 is suppressed.

[0098] (5-11) The system is further equipped with a pressure sensor 95. The pressure sensor 95 is positioned between the liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18 and the piping connection 80.

[0099] When using highly flammable refrigerants, if installation errors occur in the piping connections during the installation of the air conditioner 100, a risk related to refrigerant leakage arises. By installing a pressure sensor 95 between the liquid shut-off valve 17 and the gas shut-off valve 18 and the piping connection 80, the internal piping pressure during installation can be monitored. By checking the internal piping pressure with the pressure sensor 95, it is possible to check for insufficient vacuuming or leaks due to faulty connections during the installation process and determine the installation status. As a result, the risk of refrigerant leakage due to faulty installation can be reduced.

[0100] (5-12) The assembly method for the outdoor unit 10 comprises a first step ST1 of attaching the first part 41 with the first cover 40 open, a second step ST2 of connecting the refrigerant piping 90, and a third step ST3 of closing the first cover 40.

[0101] According to this assembly method, the first cover 40 is closed after the first part 41 is attached to the casing 50, making it easy to position the first cover 40 when attaching it. In addition, since the first cover 40 can be opened and closed, maintainability and workability are improved.

[0102] (6) Variant (6-1) Variation A In the above embodiment, the connecting portion 43 is a hinge, but is not limited to this. The connecting portion 43 may be a sliding type, for example. In this modified example A, the first cover 40 opens and closes as the second portion 42 slides relative to the first portion 41.

[0103] (6-2) Variation B In the above embodiment, there are multiple openings O, but the invention is not limited to this. There may be one opening O that is larger than the one shown in Figure 5. The shape of the opening O may be irregular or any shape such as a slit. In this modified example, the area of ​​the opening O is larger than the total area of ​​the other gaps that exist between the first cover 40 and the casing 50.

[0104] (6-3) Modification C In the above embodiment, the first cover has two parts, having a first part and a second part, but it may have three or more parts.

[0105] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, it will be understood that various modifications to the form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as described in the claims. Furthermore, these embodiments and modifications may be combined or substituted as appropriate, as long as they do not impair the function of the subject matter of this disclosure. The terms “First,” “Second,” etc., described above are used to distinguish the phrases to which these terms are attached, and do not limit the number or order of such phrases. [Industrial applicability]

[0106] As explained above, this disclosure is useful for indoor units and air conditioners. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0107] 10:Outdoor unit 13: Heat source heat exchanger (an example of a heat exchanger) 14: Heat source fan (an example of a fan) 17: Liquid shut-off valve (an example of a shut-off valve) 18: Gas shut-off valve (an example of a shut-off valve) 19: Heat source control unit 20: Indoor unit 30: Connecting piping 31: Liquid communication piping 32: Gas connection piping 40: First cover 41: Part 1 42: Part 2 43:Connection part 44: Reinforcement member 45: Inclined part 50: Casing 54: Second side plate (an example of the side of the casing) 58: Second cover 80: Pipe connection 88:Terminal block 90: Refrigerant piping 91: Liquid refrigerant piping 92: Gas refrigerant piping 94: Refrigerant detection sensor 95: Pressure sensor 100: Air conditioner O: Opening S3: Blower room S4: Machine Room [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0108] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2022 / 107220

Claims

1. Casing (50) and The refrigerant piping (90) is arranged inside the casing and through which refrigerant flows, A refrigerant detection sensor (94) is located inside the casing, An opening (O) is formed on the side surface (54) of the casing, which communicates the inside and outside of the casing, A piping connection part (80) that connects the refrigerant piping and the connecting piping (30) extending from the indoor unit, A first cover (40) having a first part (41), a second part (42), and a connecting part (43) positioned between the first part and the second part, covering the opening and the pipe connection part, A second cover (58) covering the first cover, Equipped with, The first part and the second part of the first cover can be opened and closed by relative movement via the connecting part. Outdoor unit of an air conditioner (10).

2. The aforementioned connecting part has a rotating structure. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1.

3. The pipe connection portion and the side surface of the casing are spaced apart. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1.

4. The casing is further provided with shut-off valves (17, 18) located near the side surface for opening and closing the refrigerant circuit. The shut-off valve is covered by the first cover. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1.

5. The first cover has reinforcing members (44) that extend across the opposing inner wall surfaces of the first part. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1.

6. The bottom of the first cover has an inclined portion (45) that slopes downward toward the casing. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1.

7. The casing is further provided with a terminal block (88) on its side, The terminal block is positioned above the shut-off valve. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 4.

8. The aforementioned connecting pipe extends along the side of the casing, The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1.

9. Inside the casing, Machine room (S4), A fan room (S3) having a fan (14), Furthermore, The opening is located between the machine room and the piping connection section, and is configured so that air is drawn into the blower room by the fan. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1.

10. The total area of ​​the openings is greater than the total area of ​​other gaps between the first cover and the casing. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1.

11. A pressure sensor (95) is further provided between the shut-off valve and the piping connection. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 4.

12. Step (ST1) of attaching the first part with the first cover open, Step (ST2) of connecting the refrigerant piping, The step of closing the first cover (ST3), A method for assembling an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to claims 1 to 11, comprising:

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