Floor-standing indoor unit and air conditioning system

Abstract

To improve the antibacterial capabilities of the antibacterial part. [Solution] The floor-standing indoor unit comprises a casing (31) having an intake port (43) on the front side, a heat exchanger (32) located behind the intake port (43) inside the casing (31), a fan (25) located behind the heat exchanger (32) inside the casing (31), a drain pan (50) located below the heat exchanger (32), and a containment container (72) that houses an antibacterial agent (71) and is located inside the drain pan (50). At least a portion of the containment container (72) is located behind the heat exchanger (32).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a floor-standing indoor unit and an air conditioner.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an air conditioner having a floor-standing indoor unit. The floor-standing indoor unit houses a heat exchanger, a fan, and a drain pan inside a casing installed on the floor surface. The fan is disposed behind the heat exchanger, and the drain pan is disposed below the heat exchanger. Indoor air sucked in from a suction port on the front side of the casing is cooled or heated by the heat exchanger and then supplied into the indoor space from a blowout port. The drain pan receives water condensed on the surface or around the heat exchanger.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When water accumulates in the drain pan of the floor-standing indoor unit, there is a possibility that mold and bacteria will grow in the water. As a countermeasure, it is conceivable to provide an antibacterial part having an antibacterial action in the drain pan. Conventionally, in a floor-standing indoor unit, the arrangement for sufficiently exhibiting the antibacterial performance of the antibacterial part has not been studied.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to improve the antibacterial ability of the antibacterial part.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The first embodiment relates to a floor-standing indoor unit. The floor-standing indoor unit comprises a casing (31) having an intake port (43) on its front side, a heat exchanger (32) located behind the intake port (43) inside the casing (31), a fan (25) located behind the heat exchanger (32) inside the casing (31), a drain pan (50) located below the heat exchanger (32), and a containment container (72) that houses an antibacterial agent (71) and is located inside the drain pan (50). At least a portion of the containment container (72) is located behind the heat exchanger (32).

[0007] In the first embodiment, the container (72) containing the antibacterial agent (71) is positioned behind the heat exchanger (32) inside the drain pan (50). Generally, in floor-standing indoor units, the distance between the heat exchanger and the fan is wide, so there is ample space behind the heat exchanger (32) inside the drain pan (50). Therefore, by positioning the container (72) behind the heat exchanger (32), the size of the container (72) can be increased compared to when the container (72) is positioned in front of the heat exchanger (32). As a result, the amount of antibacterial agent (71) contained in the container (72) can be increased, and the antibacterial capacity of the antibacterial agent (71) can be improved.

[0008] In the second embodiment, in the first embodiment, at least a portion of the containment container (72) is positioned behind and to the side of the heat exchanger (32).

[0009] In the second embodiment, by arranging the containment container (72) behind and to the side of the heat exchanger (32), the size of the containment container (72) can be further increased, and the antibacterial ability of the antibacterial agent (71) can be improved.

[0010] In a third aspect, the drain pan (50) has a front wall (51) formed on the front side of the drain pan (50), a rear wall (52) formed on the rear side of the drain pan (50), and a side wall (53) formed on the side of the drain pan (50) so as to be continuous with the rear wall (52). The containment container (72) is positioned at the corner (58) between the rear wall (52) and the side wall (53).

[0011] In the third embodiment, the containment container (72) is positioned in the corner (58) between the side wall (53) and the rear wall (52) of the drain pan (50), so the size of the containment container (72) can be further increased, and the antibacterial ability of the antibacterial agent (71) can be improved.

[0012] A fourth embodiment is provided in the second or third embodiment, on the front side of the casing (31), a front plate (31a) is provided that is detachable from the main body (B) of the casing (31). The floor-standing indoor unit further comprises an extension (80) extending forward from the housing container (72).

[0013] In the fourth embodiment, with the front plate (31a) detached from the main body (B) of the casing (31), the worker can hold the extension (80) that extends forward from the containment container (72). This allows the worker to easily move the containment container (72) outside the casing (31) or inside the casing (31).

[0014] A fifth aspect is the fourth aspect, wherein the extension (80) has a fixing portion (83) that is fixed to the drain pan (50).

[0015] In the fifth embodiment, by providing a fixing part (83) on the extension part (80), the fixing part (83) is positioned in front of the containment container (72). Therefore, the worker can easily fix the containment container (72) to the drain pan (50).

[0016] In the sixth aspect, as in the fifth aspect, the fixing portion (83) is fixed to the drain pan (50) at a position closer to the front edge (51) of the drain pan (50) than to the rear edge (52) of the drain pan (50).

[0017] In the sixth embodiment, the fixing part (83) is closer to the front of the casing (31), so that the worker can fix the container (72) even more easily.

[0018] In the seventh aspect, in the fifth or sixth aspect, the fixing portion (83) is fixed to a protrusion (63) formed on the bottom (55) or the edge (51, 53) of the drain pan (50).

[0019] In the seventh aspect, the fixing portion (83) of the extension portion (80) is fixed to a protrusion (63) formed on the bottom (55) or the edge (51, 53) of the drain pan (50).

[0020] In the eighth aspect, in any one of the fifth to seventh aspects, the fixing portion (83) is fastened to the drain pan (50) by a fastening member (93).

[0021] In the eighth aspect, the storage container (72) can be stably fixed to the drain pan (50).

[0022] In the ninth aspect, in any one of the fourth to eighth aspects, the drain pan (50) has a first convex portion (91) or a first concave portion (94). The extension portion (80) has a second concave portion (92) into which the first convex portion (91) fits, and a second convex portion (95) that fits into the first concave portion (94).

[0023] In the ninth aspect, the first convex portion (91) of the drain pan (50) fits into the second concave portion (92) of the extension portion (80). Alternatively, the second convex portion (95) of the extension portion (80) fits into the first concave portion (94) of the drain pan (50). Thereby, the relative position between the drain pan (50) and the extension portion (80) can be determined, or the extension portion (80) can be fixed to the drain pan (50).

[0024] In the tenth aspect, in the ninth aspect, when the storage container (72) is fixed to the drain pan (50), the first convex portion (91) is closer to the front edge (51) of the drain pan (50) than the rear edge (52) of the drain pan (50), or the first concave portion (94) is closer to the front edge of the drain pan (50) than the rear edge (52) of the front drain pan (40).

[0025] In the tenth aspect, since the first convex portion (91) and the first concave portion (94) approach the front side of the casing (31), an operator can easily fit the first convex portion (91) into the second concave portion (92) or fit the second convex portion (95) into the first concave portion (94).

[0026] The eleventh aspect is that, in the ninth or tenth aspect, the first convex portion (91) protrudes rearward from the front edge (51) of the drain pan (50).

[0027] In the eleventh aspect, since the first convex portion (91) is located near the front edge (51) of the drain pan (50), an operator can easily fit the first convex portion (91) into the second concave portion (92) or fit the second convex portion (95) into the first concave portion (94).

[0028] The twelfth aspect is that, in any one of the first to eleventh aspects, at least a part of the storage container (72) contacts the rear edge (52) of the drain pan (50).

[0029] In the twelfth aspect, since the storage container (72) contacts the rear edge (52) of the drain pan (50), the position of the storage container (72) is stabilized.

[0030] The thirteenth aspect is that, in any one of the first to twelfth aspects, the upper end of the storage container (72) is at a position higher than the lower end of the heat exchanger (32).

[0031] In the thirteenth aspect, the height of the storage container (72) can be increased. Therefore, the amount of the antibacterial agent (71) can be increased, and the antibacterial ability of the antibacterial agent (71) can be improved.

[0032] The fourteenth aspect is that, in any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, the drain pan (50) has a drain outlet (60) for discharging the water in the drain pan (50) to the outside. The storage container (72) is arranged in the vicinity of the drain outlet (60).

[0033] In the 14th embodiment, the water in the drain pan (50) flows more easily around the antibacterial agent (71) in the containment container (72). As a result, the antibacterial ability of the antibacterial agent (71) can be improved.

[0034] In the 15th embodiment, the drain pan (50) has a socket (61) that extends downward and rearward from the outlet (60) and is inclined with respect to the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0035] In the 15th embodiment, the hose connected to the socket (61) can be prevented from bending too much, thereby reducing the flow resistance within the hose. As a result, the drainage performance of the drain pan (50) can be improved.

[0036] The sixteenth aspect is the drain pan (50) in the fifteenth aspect, having a front wall (51) formed on the front side of the drain pan (50), a rear wall (52) formed on the rear side of the drain pan (50), and an inclined surface (57) between the bottom surface (56) and the rear wall (52) of the drain pan (50), inclined with respect to the bottom surface (56) and the rear wall (52). At least a portion of the discharge port (60) is formed on the inclined surface (57).

[0037] In the 16th embodiment, the worker's hand on the front side of the casing (31) can easily reach the discharge port (60). Therefore, blockages in the discharge port (60) can be easily cleared.

[0038] The 17th aspect is that, in the 16th aspect, at least a portion of the outlet (60) does not overlap with the containment container (72) when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the slope (57).

[0039] In the 17th embodiment, the worker at the front of the casing (31) can more easily see the discharge port (60).

[0040] The 18th embodiment is an air conditioning system comprising a floor-standing indoor unit (30) according to any one of the first to 17 embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0041] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic piping diagram of the refrigerant circuit of an air conditioning system. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the exterior of the indoor unit. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows the interior of the indoor unit as seen from the front. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the line IV-IV in Figure 3. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a top view of the drain pan and its interior. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the area inside the frame A in Figure 5. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the line VII-VII in Figure 6. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of line VIII-VIII in Figure 6. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the antibacterial unit. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is an enlarged top view of the main part of the drain pan of Modification 1. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is an enlarged top view of the main part of the drain pan of Modified Example 2. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an enlarged top view of the main part of the drain pan of Modification 3. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0042] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible without departing from the technical idea of ​​this disclosure. Since the drawings are for conceptual explanation of this disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary for ease of understanding.

[0043] (1) Overall configuration of the air conditioning system As shown in Figure 1, the air conditioning system (10) has an outdoor unit (20) and an indoor unit (30). The air conditioning system (10) is a separate type in which the outdoor unit (20) and the indoor unit (30) are connected via two connecting pipes (12, 13). This connection constitutes a refrigerant circuit (11). The refrigerant circuit (11) is filled with refrigerant. The refrigerant circuit (11) performs a refrigeration cycle. The air conditioning system (10) air-conditions the indoor space (I), which is the target space. The air conditioning system (10) performs cooling operation and heating operation.

[0044] (2) Outdoor unit The outdoor unit (20) is located outdoors. The outdoor unit (20) has a compressor (21), an outdoor heat exchanger (22), an expansion valve (23), and a four-way switching valve (24) connected to the refrigerant circuit (11). The outdoor unit (20) has an outdoor fan (25).

[0045] The compressor (21) compresses the inhaled refrigerant. The compressor (21) discharges the compressed refrigerant. The outdoor heat exchanger (22) exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing inside it and the outdoor air by the outdoor fan (25). The outdoor fan (25) transports the outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger (22). The expansion valve (23) reduces the pressure of the refrigerant. The expansion valve (23) is an electronically controlled expansion valve with an adjustable opening. The four-way directional control valve (24) switches the flow path of the refrigerant circuit (11). The four-way directional control valve (24) switches between a first state, shown by the solid line in Figure 1, and a second state, shown by the dashed line in Figure 1. The four-way directional control valve (24) is in the first state during cooling operation and in the second state during heating operation.

[0046] (3) Indoor Unit The indoor unit (30) will be explained with reference to Figures 2 to 4. In the following explanation, terms related to "up," "down," "front," "back," "right," and "left" will, in principle, refer to the direction of the arrows shown in Figures 2 to 4.

[0047] The indoor unit (30) comprises a casing (31), an indoor heat exchanger (32), a bell mouth (33), an indoor fan (34), a drain pan (50), and a damper (36). The indoor unit (30) is installed on the floor of the indoor space (I) and constitutes a floor-standing indoor unit.

[0048] (3-1) Casing The casing (31) is installed on the floor. The casing (31) is formed in a generally rectangular box shape. The casing (31) has a front plate (31a), a rear plate (31b), a first side plate (31c), a second side plate (31d), a bottom plate (31e), and a top plate (31f). The front plate (31a) is formed on the front side of the casing (31) and constitutes the front surface of the casing (31). The rear plate (31b) is formed on the rear side of the casing (31) and constitutes the rear surface of the casing (31). The first side plate (31c) is formed on the right side of the casing (31) and constitutes the right surface of the casing (31). The second side plate (31d) is formed on the left side of the casing (31) and constitutes the left surface of the casing (31). The bottom plate (31e) is formed on the underside of the casing (31) and constitutes the lower surface of the casing (31). The top plate (31f) is formed on the upper side of the casing (31) and constitutes the upper surface of the casing (31).

[0049] A first air outlet (41) is formed at the bottom of the front plate (31a). Multiple suction ports (43) are formed in the front plate (31a). The suction ports (43) are located above the first air outlet (41). The suction ports (43) are composed of multiple slits extending in the left-right direction. The multiple suction ports (43) are arranged in the vertical direction. A second air outlet (42) is formed in the top plate (31f). The second air outlet (42) is located above the first air outlet (41). The second air outlet (42) is an elongated hole extending in the left-right direction.

[0050] The casing (31) has an air passage (P). The air passage (P) is a passage that extends from a plurality of intake ports (43) to the first outlet (41) and the second outlet (42). The air passage (P) includes a lower passage (38) and an upper passage (39). The lower passage (38) is a passage that extends from the downstream side of the indoor fan (34) to the first outlet (41). The lower passage (38) is located at the bottom of the casing (31). The upper passage (39) is a passage that extends from the downstream side of the indoor fan (34) to the second outlet (42). The upper passage (39) is located at the top of the casing (31).

[0051] In this embodiment, the front plate (31a) is configured to be detachably attached to the main body (B) of the casing (31). The main body (B) is the part of the casing (31) excluding the front plate (31a). When the front plate (31a) is removed from the main body (B), a maintenance opening is formed. The front plate (31a) constitutes a lid that opens and closes the opening. When the front plate (31a) is removed from the main body (B), the drain pan (50) is exposed to the outside of the casing (31) through the opening.

[0052] (3-2) Indoor heat exchanger The indoor heat exchanger (32) is positioned in the air passage (P). Specifically, the indoor heat exchanger (32) is positioned behind the front plate (31a). The indoor heat exchanger (32) is a fin-and-tube type air heat exchanger. The short side of the indoor heat exchanger (32) corresponds to the front-to-back direction. The direction of the fin arrangement corresponds to the left-to-right direction. The indoor heat exchanger (32) exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the indoor air transported by the indoor fan (34). The indoor heat exchanger (32) functions as both a radiator and an evaporator. As a radiator, the indoor heat exchanger (32) heats the air in the air passage (P). As an evaporator, the indoor heat exchanger (32) cools the air in the air passage (P).

[0053] (3-3) Bellmouth The bell mouth (33) shown in Figure 3 is positioned behind the indoor heat exchanger (32). The bell mouth (33) guides the air that has passed through the indoor heat exchanger (32) to the indoor fan (34).

[0054] (3-4) Indoor fan As shown in Figure 4, the indoor fan (34) is positioned behind the bell mouth (33). The indoor fan (34) is a centrifugal fan, specifically a turbo fan. The indoor fan (34) includes a fan motor (34a), a fan drive shaft (34b) rotated by the fan motor (34a), an impeller (34c) connected to the fan drive shaft (34b), and a cylindrical guide section (35) through which air flows. The fan drive shaft (34b) extends in the front-rear direction. An inlet (35a) for air to flow in is formed at the front end of the guide section (35), and an outlet (35b) for air to flow out is formed on the radially outer side of the guide section (35).

[0055] When the indoor fan (34) is in operation, the air that has passed through the bell mouth (33) flows from the inlet (35a) into the guide section (35). This air is transported by the impeller (34c) and flows radially outward from the outlet (35b) of the guide section (35). The air that flows below the indoor fan (34) passes through the lower flow path (38) and is blown out into the indoor space (I) from the first outlet (41). The air that flows above the indoor fan (34) passes through the upper flow path (39) and is blown out into the indoor space (I) from the second outlet (42).

[0056] As shown in Figure 4, the distance in the front-to-back direction from the indoor fan (34) to the indoor heat exchanger (32) is defined as L1, and the distance in the front-to-back direction from the indoor heat exchanger (32) to the front plate (31a) of the casing (31) is defined as L2. Here, L1 is strictly the distance in the front-to-back direction from the inlet (35a) of the indoor fan (34) to the rear surface of the indoor heat exchanger (32), and L2 is the distance in the front-to-back direction from the rear surface of the front plate (31a) to the front surface of the indoor heat exchanger (32). In the indoor unit (30), L1 is longer than L2.

[0057] (3-5) Drain pan The drain pan (50) is located below the indoor heat exchanger (32). The drain pan (50) is positioned between the front plate (31a) of the casing (31) and the indoor fan (34). The drain pan (50) collects water (condensation) that has condensed on or around the surface of the indoor heat exchanger (32). An antibacterial unit (70) is provided inside the drain pan (50). Details of the drain pan (50) and the antibacterial unit (70) will be described in detail later.

[0058] (3-6) Damper As shown in Figure 4, a damper (36) is provided in the lower flow path (38). The damper (36) is driven by a motor (not shown) to open and close the lower flow path (38). Specifically, the damper (36) moves between an open state, shown by the solid line in Figure 4, and a closed state, shown by the dashed line in Figure 4. When the damper (36) is in the closed state, the lower flow path (38) is blocked, and the flow of air in the lower flow path (38) is prohibited. When the damper (36) is in the open state, the lower flow path (38) is opened, and the flow of air in the lower flow path (38) is permitted.

[0059] (4) Operating The air conditioning system (10) performs both cooling and heating operations.

[0060] (4-1) Cooling operation During cooling operation, the refrigerant circuit (11) performs a refrigeration cycle (cooling cycle) in which the outdoor heat exchanger (22) functions as a heat radiator (more precisely, a condenser) and the indoor heat exchanger (32) functions as an evaporator. In principle, the damper (36) is closed during cooling operation.

[0061] In the indoor unit (30), air from the indoor space (I) flows into the air passage (P) from the intake port (43). This air is cooled by the indoor heat exchanger (32), then flows through the upper passage (39), and is blown out from the second outlet (42) towards the ceiling of the indoor space (I).

[0062] (4-2) Heating operation During heating operation, the refrigerant circuit (11) performs a refrigeration cycle (heating cycle) in which the indoor heat exchanger (32) functions as a radiator (more precisely, a condenser) and the outdoor heat exchanger (22) functions as an evaporator.

[0063] In the indoor unit (30), air from the indoor space (I) flows into the air passage (P) from the intake port (43). This air is heated in the indoor heat exchanger (32) and then divided into an upper passage (39) and a lower passage (38). The air in the upper passage (39) is blown out from the second outlet (42) towards the ceiling of the indoor space (I). The air in the lower passage (38) is blown out from the first outlet (41) towards the floor of the indoor space (I).

[0064] (5) Details of the drain pan The details of the drain pan will be explained with reference to Figures 5 to 8. The drain pan (50) is formed in a roughly rectangular shape when viewed from above, with the front-to-back direction as the short side and the left-to-right direction as the long side. The drain pan (50) is a tray that is open on the top. The drain pan (50) has a front wall (51), a rear wall (52), a first side wall (53), a second side wall (54), and a bottom wall (55). The front wall (51) is formed on the front side of the drain pan (50) and constitutes the front edge of the drain pan (50). The rear wall (52) is formed on the rear side of the drain pan (50) and constitutes the rear edge of the drain pan (50). The first side wall (53) is formed on the right side of the drain pan (50) and constitutes the right edge of the drain pan (50). The second side wall (54) is formed on the left side of the drain pan (50) and constitutes the left edge of the drain pan (50). The bottom wall (55) is formed on the underside of the drain pan (50) and constitutes the bottom of the drain pan (50). The bottom surface (56) of the drain pan (50) is formed on the upper surface of the bottom wall (55). In the drain pan (50), a storage space is formed inside the front wall (51), the first side wall (53), the rear wall (52), and the second side wall (54) where water accumulates.

[0065] In this embodiment, a right-side inclined portion (51a) is formed on the right end of the front wall (51), which approaches the rear wall (52) as it moves toward the first side wall (53). On the left end of the front wall (51), a left-side inclined portion (51b) is formed, which approaches the rear wall (52) as it moves toward the second side wall (54).

[0066] An inclined surface (57) is formed between the bottom surface (56) and the rear wall (52) of the drain pan (50). The inclined surface (57) is continuous with the bottom surface (56) and the rear wall (52) (more precisely, the inner surface of the rear wall (52)). The inclined surface (57) extends in the left-right direction along the rear wall (52). The inclined surface (57) is inclined with respect to the bottom surface (56) and the rear wall (52). When viewed in a cross-section in the left-right direction, the inclined surface (57) extends in a direction that is inclined with respect to the horizontal and vertical directions. The inclined surface (57) faces diagonally upward between the horizontal and vertical planes.

[0067] The drain pan (50) has an outlet (60). The outlet (60) is an opening for draining water from the drain pan (50) to the outside. As shown in Figure 6, the outlet (60) is located in the corner (58) between the rear wall (52) and the first side wall (53) inside the drain pan (50). Specifically, the vertical plane along the side end (right end) of the indoor heat exchanger (32) is defined as the first plane (P1), the vertical plane along the side wall (first side wall (53)) opposite to the first plane (P1) is defined as the second plane (P2), the vertical plane along the rear surface of the indoor heat exchanger (32) is defined as the third plane (P3), and the vertical plane along the rear wall (52) of the drain pan (50) is defined as the fourth plane (P4). The corner (58) of the drain pan (50) refers to the region of the drain pan (50) that is enclosed by the first surface (P1), the second surface (P2), the third surface (P3), and the fourth surface (P4) when viewed from above.

[0068] The discharge port (60) is a circular opening. In this embodiment, the discharge port (60) is formed across both the bottom surface (56) and the slope surface (57). In other words, a portion of the discharge port (60) is formed on the bottom surface (56), and the remainder is formed on the slope surface (57).

[0069] The bottom surface (56) of the drain pan (50) is slightly sloped to guide the water inside the drain pan (50) to the outlet (60). Specifically, the bottom surface (56) is sloped so that it is lower as it approaches the rear wall (52) from the front wall (51), and also lower as it approaches the first side wall (53) from the second side wall (54).

[0070] As shown in Figures 6 and 8, the drain pan (50) has a socket (61) extending outward from the outlet (60). The socket (61) extends downward and rearward from the drain pan (50) and is inclined with respect to the vertical and horizontal directions. In other words, the socket (61) extends diagonally downward and rearward. The length of the socket (61) in the axial direction is greater than its outer diameter. A drainage hose (H) is connected to the socket (61). The hose (H) is made of a flexible resin material. The hose (H) extends from the socket (61) to the rear side of the indoor unit (30) and, for example, to the outside. Water in the drain pan (50) flows into the socket (61) from the outlet (60) and is discharged to the outside or elsewhere.

[0071] As shown in Figures 6 and 8, a first protrusion (91) is formed on the drain pan (50). In this embodiment, the first protrusion (91) projects rearward from the front wall (51). The first protrusion (91) is continuous with the right-side inclined portion (51a) of the front wall (51). The first protrusion (91) is formed in a substantially plate shape with the left-right direction being the thickness direction. The first protrusion (91) fits into the second recess (92) of the antibacterial unit (70).

[0072] As shown in Figure 8, a projection (63) is formed on the bottom wall (55) of the drain pan (50). The projection (63) is closer to the front wall (51) than to the rear wall (52). The projection (63) protrudes upward from the bottom wall (55). The projection (63) is formed in a roughly cylindrical shape. A first fastening hole (64) is formed on the axis of the projection (63), extending downward from its upper surface.

[0073] As shown in Figure 5, the distance in the front-to-back direction from the rear surface of the indoor heat exchanger (32) to the rear wall (52) of the drain pan (50) is defined as L3, and the distance in the front-to-back direction from the front surface of the indoor heat exchanger (32) to the front wall (51) of the drain pan (50) is defined as L4. In the indoor unit (30), L3 is longer than L4.

[0074] (6) Antibacterial unit The details of the antibacterial unit (70) will be explained with reference to Figures 5 to 9. The antibacterial unit (70) imparts an antibacterial effect to the water in the drain pan (50). This antibacterial effect suppresses the growth of bacteria, mold, slime, etc. in the drain pan (50). The antibacterial unit (70) has an antibacterial agent (71), a container (72) that contains the antibacterial agent (71), and an extension (80) that extends forward from the container (72).

[0075] (6-1) Antimicrobial agents The antimicrobial agent (71) shown in Figure 8 is composed of, for example, granular metal material. The metal material can be silver, copper, stainless steel, zinc, etc. The metal material is composed of a material that releases cations when immersed in water. The antimicrobial agent (71) may be directly filled into the container (72), or it may be placed inside the container (72) in a mesh-like cartridge.

[0076] (6-2) Containment container As shown in Figures 5 to 8, the containment container (72) is positioned inside the drain pan (50). The containment container (72) is positioned behind the indoor heat exchanger (32). Here, "behind" means that, when viewed in the left-right direction, the containment container (72) is positioned further back than the indoor heat exchanger (32). Therefore, in a top view, the indoor heat exchanger (32) and the containment container (72) do not necessarily overlap in the front-back direction. The containment container (72) is positioned closer to the rear wall (52) than to the front wall (51).

[0077] The containment container (72) is positioned to the side of the indoor heat exchanger (32), specifically to its right. Here, "to the right" means that, when viewed in the front-to-back direction, the containment container (72) is positioned to the right of the indoor heat exchanger (32). Therefore, in a top view, the indoor heat exchanger (32) and the containment container (72) do not necessarily overlap in the left-to-right direction. As shown in Figure 6, the containment container (72) is positioned at the corner (58) of the drain pan (50). The containment container (72) is positioned closer to the first side wall (53) than the indoor heat exchanger (32).

[0078] The containment container (72) is positioned near the discharge port (60). Specifically, the containment container (72) is positioned within a distance of 20 cm or less from the discharge port (60).

[0079] The containment container (72) is positioned to allow for maintenance of the discharge port (60). As shown in Figure 6, the containment container (72) is positioned so that a portion of the discharge port (60) does not overlap with the containment container (72) when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the slope (57). In addition, the containment container (72) is positioned so that a portion of the discharge port (60) does not overlap with the containment container (72) when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface (56).

[0080] The container (72) is formed in the shape of a hollow box. The outer shape of the container (72) is generally formed in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. The container (72) is formed to be elongated horizontally. The container (72) has a container body (73), a top lid (74), and a connecting part (75) that connects the container body (73) and the top lid (74). The container body (73) is formed in the shape of a box with an opening at the top. The top lid (74) opens and closes the opening at the top of the container body (73).

[0081] The container body (73) has a container-side front plate (73a), a container-side rear plate (73b), a container-side first side plate (73c), a container-side second side plate (73d), and a container-side bottom plate (73e). The container-side front plate (73a) is formed on the front side of the container body (73), the container-side rear plate (73b) is formed on the rear side of the container body (73), the container-side first side plate (73c) is formed on the right side of the container body (73), the container-side second side plate (73d) is formed on the left side of the container body (73), and the container-side bottom plate (73e) is formed on the underside of the container body (73).

[0082] The top lid (74) is connected to the container body (73) via a connecting portion (75). The connecting portion (75) is provided on the rear end side of the upper edge of the container body (73). The angle of the top lid (74) changes vertically with the connecting portion (75) as the pivot point. When the front edge of the top lid (74) moves upward, the opening of the container body (73) is opened, and when the front edge of the top lid (74) comes into contact with the container body (73), the opening of the container body (73) is closed. Grips (76) are provided on the sides of the top lid (74), specifically the front, right, and left sides.

[0083] Multiple holes (77) are formed in the container (72). In this embodiment, the multiple holes (77) are formed in the first container-side plate (73c), the second container-side plate (73d), and the top lid (74). The multiple holes (77) may also be formed in the front container-side plate (73a), the rear container-side plate (73b), or the bottom container-side plate (73e). The holes (77) connect the outside and inside of the container body (73).

[0084] The upper end of the containment container (72) is higher than the lower end of the indoor heat exchanger (32). Here, the lower end of the indoor heat exchanger (32) corresponds to the lower end of the fins. Specifically, as shown in Figure 7, the height position h1 of the upper end of the containment container (72) is higher than the height position h2 of the lower end of the indoor heat exchanger (32).

[0085] (6-3) Extension part The extension (80) extends forward from the containment container (72). Specifically, the extension (80) extends forward from the right end of the upper edge of the container-side front plate (73a). The extension (80) has a base (81) that is continuous with the containment container (72), an engaging portion (82) that extends further forward from the tip of the base (81), and a fixing portion (83) located to the side (right) of the engaging portion (82).

[0086] The base portion (81) is located on the rear end side of the extension portion (80). The base portion (81) is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape that is elongated horizontally in the front-to-back direction. The engaging portion (82) is continuous with the front end of the base portion (81) and is located on the front end side of the extension portion (80). In this embodiment, a second recess (92) is formed in the engaging portion (82). The second recess (92) is recessed toward the rear from the front end of the engaging portion (82). The second recess (92) is closer to the front wall (51) than to the rear wall (52). The first protrusion (91) described above fits into the second recess (92). In this embodiment, the left-to-right spacing of the space inside the second recess (92) is slightly larger than the left-to-right thickness of the first protrusion (91). Therefore, the first protrusion (91) fits inside the second recess (92) with a small gap between them. In this embodiment, the first protrusion (91) and the second recess (92) constitute a positioning portion that determines the relative position between the antibacterial unit (70) and the drain pan (50).

[0087] The fixing portion (83) is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape with the vertical direction being the axis of the cylinder. The fixing portion (83) is closer to the front wall (51) than to the rear wall (52). A second fastening hole (84) is formed on the upper surface of the fixing portion (83), penetrating the fixing portion (83) vertically. As shown in Figure 8, a cylindrical recess (85) is formed on the lower side of the fixing portion (83), into which the projection (63) of the drain pan (50) fits. When the projection (63) fits into the cylindrical recess (85), the first fastening hole (64) and the second fastening hole (84) overlap in the vertical direction. Fastening members (93), such as bolts and screws, are fastened to the first fastening hole (64) and the second fastening hole (84).

[0088] (7) Work of the worker (7-1) Removal and installation of the antibacterial unit The worker can remove and install the antibacterial unit (70) from outside the casing (31). To remove the antibacterial unit (70), the worker detaches the front plate (31a) from the main body (B) of the casing (31). As a result, the inside of the drain pan (50) is exposed to the outside of the casing (31). The worker uses a screwdriver to remove the fastening member (93). Next, the worker disengages the engagement between the first protrusion (91) and the second recess (92). Then, by holding the extension (80), the worker can easily remove the antibacterial unit (70) from outside the casing (31).

[0089] During the installation of the antibacterial unit (70), the worker holds the extension (80) and inserts the first protrusion (91) into the second recess (92). At the same time, the worker inserts the projection (63) into the cylindrical recess (85) of the fixing part (83). The worker then fastens the fastening member (93) into the first fastening hole (64) and the second fastening hole (84). As a result, the fixing part (83) and further the antibacterial unit (70) are fixed to the drain pan (50).

[0090] Since the first protrusion (91), the second recess (92), and the fixing part (83) are closer to the front wall (51) than to the rear wall (52), workers can easily remove and install the antibacterial unit (70).

[0091] (7-2) Maintenance work on the discharge port The worker can perform maintenance on the outlet (60) from outside the casing (31). During maintenance of the outlet (60), the worker removes the front plate (31a) from the main body (B) of the casing (31). As a result, the outlet (60) is exposed to the outside of the casing (31). The outlet (60) is formed on the slope (57) of the drain pan (50). As shown in Figure 8, the slope (57) is inclined with respect to the bottom surface (56) and the rear wall (52). Therefore, a worker in front of the casing (31) can easily see the outlet (60). For example, if slime or other debris is clogging the outlet (60), the worker can easily remove the foreign matter clogging the outlet (60) using a tool such as a screwdriver.

[0092] In addition, a portion of the discharge port (60) in this embodiment does not overlap with the containment container (72) when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the slope (57). As a result, the worker's line of sight can easily reach the discharge port (60), making maintenance work on the discharge port (60) easier.

[0093] (8) Characteristics (8-1) The indoor unit (30) comprises a drain pan (50) positioned below the indoor heat exchanger (32) and a containment container (72) that houses an antibacterial agent (71) and is positioned within the drain pan (50). At least a portion of the containment container (72) is positioned behind the heat exchanger (32).

[0094] In floor-standing indoor units, for example, there is more space between the indoor heat exchanger (32) and the rear wall (52) inside the drain pan (50) compared to wall-mounted indoor units. In wall-mounted indoor units, the rear wall of the drain pan also serves as a tongue that guides the airflow of the indoor fan, making it difficult to secure sufficient space at the rear inside the drain pan. In contrast, floor-standing indoor units do not have such layout constraints, and a relatively large space can be secured behind the indoor heat exchanger (32). In this embodiment, the containment container (72) is placed in a relatively spacious location inside the drain pan (50), so the size of the containment container (72) can be increased in the front-to-back direction. As a result, the amount of antibacterial agent (71) inside the containment container (72) can be increased. Therefore, the antibacterial capacity of the antibacterial agent (71) can be improved. In addition, the lifespan of the antibacterial agent (71) can be extended, and the frequency of replacement of the antibacterial agent (71) can be reduced.

[0095] In the indoor unit (30) of this embodiment, the distance L1 between the indoor fan (34) and the indoor heat exchanger (32) is relatively large. Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, L1 is longer than the distance L2 between the front plate (31a) and the indoor heat exchanger (32). Consequently, as shown in Figure 5, L3 is longer than L4. When the distance L1 between the indoor fan (34) and the indoor heat exchanger (32) is large, the air that has passed through the indoor heat exchanger (32) can be rectified before being drawn into the inlet (35a) of the indoor fan (34). Therefore, the noise of the indoor fan (34) caused by air turbulence can be reduced.

[0096] In addition, increasing the distance L1 between the indoor fan (34) and the indoor heat exchanger (32) can suppress the suction of water condensed on the surface of the indoor heat exchanger (32) and water collected in the drain pan (50) towards the indoor fan (34).

[0097] In this embodiment, the distance L1 between the indoor fan (34) and the indoor heat exchanger (32) is increased, and the containment container (72) is placed behind the indoor heat exchanger (32). This allows for an increase in the size of the containment container (72), reduces noise during operation of the indoor fan (34), and prevents condensation water from being sucked into the indoor fan (34).

[0098] (8-2) At least a portion of the containment container (72) is positioned behind and to the side of the indoor heat exchanger (32). More specifically, the containment container (72) is positioned at the corner (58) of the drain pan (50). This allows the containment container (72) to be expanded in the front-to-back and left-to-right directions, and the amount of antibacterial agent (71) can be further increased.

[0099] (8-3) A front plate (31a) is provided on the front side of the casing (31), which is detachable from the main body (B) of the casing (31). An extension (80) is further provided that extends forward from the containment container (72). Therefore, the worker can hold the extension (80) with the front plate (31a) detached from the main body (B) of the casing (31). Thus, the worker can easily take the containment container (72) out of the casing (31) or put it inside the casing (31).

[0100] The extension (80) has a fixing part (83) that is fixed to the drain pan (50). Since the extension (80) is located in front of the containment container (72), the worker can easily fix the containment container (72) to the drain pan (50). By fixing the containment container (72) to the desired position on the drain pan (50), displacement of the antibacterial agent (71) can be suppressed. As a result, the antibacterial effect of the antibacterial agent (71) can be fully exerted.

[0101] The fixing part (83) is fixed to the drain pan (50) at a position closer to the front wall (51) of the drain pan (50) than to the rear wall (52) of the drain pan (50). As a result, the fixing part (83) is closer to the front side of the casing (31), making it easier for the worker to fix the container (72).

[0102] The drain pan (50) has a projection (63) formed on its bottom wall (55). The fixing part (83) is fixed to the projection (63). This allows the fixing part (83) to be fixed to the drain pan (50) while maintaining sufficient thickness of the bottom (55).

[0103] Since the projection (63) protrudes upward, the fixing position of the fixing part (83) can be raised. As a result, the worker can fix the container (72) more easily.

[0104] The fixing portion (83) is fastened to the drain pan (50) by the fastening member (93). This prevents displacement of the fixing portion (83) and, furthermore, the containment container (72).

[0105] (8-4) The drain pan (50) has a first protrusion (91). The extension (80) has a second recess (92) into which the first protrusion (91) fits. Therefore, by fitting the first protrusion (91) into the second recess (92), the relative positions of the containment container (72) and the drain pan (50), or the relative positions of the fixing part (83) and the drain pan (50), can be determined. In other words, the first protrusion (91) and the second recess (92) function as temporary fixing parts. As a result, the worker can easily fix the fixing part (83) to the drain pan (50). In particular, the worker can easily fasten the fixing part (83) with the fastening member (93).

[0106] The first protrusion (91) protrudes rearward from the front wall (51) of the drain pan (50). Therefore, since the first protrusion (91) is located near the front edge (51) of the drain pan (50), the worker can easily fit the first protrusion (91) into the second recess (92).

[0107] (8-5) The upper end of the containment container (72) is higher than the lower end of the indoor heat exchanger (32). Therefore, the size of the containment container (72) can be increased in the height direction. As a result, the amount of antibacterial agent (71) can be further increased.

[0108] (8-6) The drain pan (50) has an outlet (60) for draining the water inside the drain pan (50) to the outside. The containment container (72) is positioned near the outlet (60). This makes it easier for the water inside the drain pan (50) to flow around the antibacterial agent (71) in the containment container (72). As a result, the antibacterial ability of the antibacterial agent (71) can be improved.

[0109] The outlet (60) is located at the corner (58) of the drain pan (50). The bottom surface (56) of the drain pan (50) is sloped so that the water inside the drain pan (50) is guided to the corner (58). This makes it easier for the water inside the drain pan (50) to flow around the antibacterial agent (71) in the containment container (72).

[0110] The drain pan (50) has a socket (61) that extends downward and rearward from the outlet (60) and is inclined with respect to the vertical and horizontal directions. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the socket extends vertically downward, as shown in Figure 8, the hose (H) connected to the socket (61) can be suppressed to bend significantly. As a result, the increase in flow resistance of the hose (H) can be suppressed, thereby improving the drainage performance of the drain pan (50).

[0111] In addition, since the socket (61) extends to the rear of the casing (31), it becomes easier to route the hose (H) to the rear of the casing (31) or even to the outside.

[0112] At least a portion of the discharge port (60) does not overlap with the containment container (72) when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the slope (57). Therefore, the containment container (72) does not obstruct the worker's line of sight toward the discharge port (60). Consequently, the worker can easily maintain the discharge port (60).

[0113] (9) Variant The above embodiment may also have the following modified configuration. The following will primarily describe the differences from the above embodiment.

[0114] (9-1) Variation 1 In the modified example 1 shown in Figure 10, a first recess (94) is formed in the drain pan (50) and a second protrusion (95) is formed in the extension (80). The first recess (94) is formed, for example, in the front wall (51). The first recess (94) is recessed forward from the inner surface of the front wall (51). The second protrusion (95) is formed at the front end of the extension (80). The second protrusion (95) extends forward. The second protrusion (95) fits into the first recess (94). This makes it possible to determine the relative positions of the drain pan (50) and the containment container (72).

[0115] (9-2) Modification example 2 In the modified example 2 shown in Figure 11, the projection (63) is formed on the edge of the drain pan (50). Specifically, the projection (63) is formed on the first side wall (53) of the drain pan (50). The projection (63) protrudes to the left from the first side wall (53). The projection (63) is located below the fixing portion (83) of the extension portion (80). A first fastening hole (64) is formed on the upper surface of the projection (63) into which the fastening member (93) is fastened. Similar to the embodiment described above, the fastening member (93) is fastened to the second fastening hole (84) and the first fastening hole (64). As a result, the fixing portion (83) is fixed to the projection (63).

[0116] (9-3) Modification 3 In the modified example 3 shown in Figure 12, at least a portion of the rear side of the containment container (72) is in contact with the rear wall (52), which is the rear edge of the drain pan (50). In this example, the container-side rear plate (73b) of the containment container (72) is in contact with the rear wall (52). The containment container (72) and the rear wall (52) may be in surface contact with each other or in line contact with each other. The containment container (72) may also be in contact with the rear slope (57) of the drain pan (50).

[0117] In the third modified example, the containment container (72) comes into contact with the rear edge of the drain pan (50), which helps to suppress displacement of the containment container (72). As a result, the containment container (72) can be positioned near the outlet (60), and the antibacterial effect of the antibacterial agent (71) can be ensured.

[0118] (10) Other embodiments The air conditioning system (10) of this embodiment is a separate type, comprising an indoor unit (30) consisting of a floor-standing indoor unit and an outdoor unit (20). However, the air conditioning system (10) may also be an integrated type, having only a floor-standing indoor unit and no outdoor unit (20). In this case, the floor-standing indoor unit includes a compressor, a heat source side heat exchanger, and the like.

[0119] The air conditioning system (10) does not have to be a paired system having one indoor unit (30) and one outdoor unit (20), but may be an indoor multi-system having multiple indoor units (30) or an outdoor multi-system having multiple outdoor units (20).

[0120] The containment container (72) may be positioned partially behind the indoor heat exchanger (32), or entirely behind the indoor heat exchanger (32). The containment container (72) may be positioned partially to the side of the indoor heat exchanger (32), or entirely to the side of the indoor heat exchanger (32). The containment container (72) may be positioned partially below the indoor heat exchanger (32). The containment container (72) may be positioned at the corner between the rear wall (52) and the second side wall (54) of the drain pan (50).

[0121] The front wall (51) and rear wall (52) of the drain pan (50) do not have to extend vertically, and may be inclined with respect to the vertical and horizontal.

[0122] The extension (80) may extend laterally. The fixing part (83) may be fixed to the drain pan (50) by means of, for example, engagement with a hook, fitting together with grooves and protrusions, or fixing by press-fitting.

[0123] The fastening member (93) may be omitted, and the extension (80) may be fixed to the drain pan (50) solely by the fitting of the first protrusion (91) and the second recess (92), or by the fitting of the first recess (94) and the second protrusion (95).

[0124] The first protrusion (91) and the second recess (92), or the first recess (94) and the second protrusion (95), may be omitted, and the extension (80) may be fixed to the drain pan (50) by fastening member (93) only.

[0125] The discharge port (60) may be formed only on the bottom surface (56) of the drain pan (50) or only on the slope (57). The discharge port (60) may be located at an intermediate position in the left-right direction of the drain pan (50). In this case, the bottom surface (56) of the drain pan (50) is sloped such that the intermediate position in the left-right direction is the lowest.

[0126] The indoor fan (34) does not have to be a turbo fan; it may be a centrifugal fan, a propeller fan, or a cross-flow fan.

[0127] While embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that a variety of changes in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Furthermore, the embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments described above may be combined or substituted as appropriate, as long as they do not impair the functions covered by this disclosure.

[0128] The designations "1st," "2nd," "3rd," etc., mentioned above are used to distinguish between the terms to which these designations are attached, and do not limit the number or order of those terms. [Industrial applicability]

[0129] As described above, this disclosure is useful for floor-standing indoor units and air conditioning systems. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0130] 10. Air conditioning system 25 Outdoor fan (fan) 30 Indoor Unit (Floor-standing indoor unit) 31 Casing 31a Front panel 32 Indoor heat exchanger (heat exchanger) 43 Inlet 50 Drain pan 51 Anterior wall (front edge) 51, 53 Edge 52 Posterior wall (posterior edge) 53 First side wall (side wall) 55 Bottom wall (bottom) 56 Bottom 57 Slope 60 Outlet 61 Sockets 63 Protrusion 71 Antimicrobial agents 72 containment containers 80 Extension 83 Fixed part 91 First protrusion 92 Second recess 93 Fastening Members 94 First recess 95 Second protrusion B Main Unit

Claims

1. A casing (31) having a suction port (43) on the front side, A heat exchanger (32) is located inside the casing (31) behind the suction port (43), A fan (25) is positioned behind the heat exchanger (32) inside the casing (31), A drain pan (50) is located below the heat exchanger (32), The system comprises a container (72) which contains an antibacterial agent (71) and is placed inside the drain pan (50), At least a portion of the containment container (72) is positioned behind the heat exchanger (32). Floor-standing indoor unit.

2. At least a portion of the containment container (72) is positioned behind and to the side of the heat exchanger (32). The floor-standing indoor unit according to claim 1.

3. The drain pan (50) has a front wall (51) formed on the front side of the drain pan (50), a rear wall (52) formed on the rear side of the drain pan (50), and a side wall (53) formed on the side of the drain pan (50) so as to be continuous with the rear wall (52). The containment container (72) is positioned inside the drain pan (50) at the corner (58) between the rear wall (52) and the side wall (53). The floor-standing indoor unit according to claim 2.

4. A front plate (31a) is provided on the front side of the casing (31), which is detachable from the main body (B) of the casing (31). The container (72) further comprises an extension (80) extending forward from the container (72). The floor-standing indoor unit according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The extension (80) has a fixing portion (83) that is fixed to the drain pan (50). The floor-standing indoor unit according to claim 4.

6. The fixing portion (83) is fixed to the drain pan (50) at a position closer to the front edge (51) of the drain pan (50) than to the rear edge (52) of the drain pan (50). The floor-standing indoor unit according to claim 5.

7. The fixing portion (83) is fixed to a projection (63) formed on the bottom (55) or edge (51, 53) of the drain pan (50). The floor-standing indoor unit according to claim 5.

8. The fixing portion (83) is fastened to the drain pan (50) by the fastening member (93). The floor-standing indoor unit according to claim 5.

9. The drain pan (50) has a first protrusion (91) or a first recess (94), The extension (80) has a second recess (92) into which the first protrusion (91) fits, and a second protrusion (95) into which the first recess (94) fits. The floor-standing indoor unit according to claim 4.

10. When the containment container (72) is fixed inside the drain pan (50), the first protrusion (91) is closer to the front edge (51) of the drain pan (50) than to the rear edge (52) of the drain pan (50), or The first recess (94) is closer to the front edge of the drain pan (50) than to the rear edge (52) of the drain pan (50). The floor-standing indoor unit according to claim 9.

11. The first protrusion (91) protrudes rearward from the front edge (51) of the drain pan (50). The floor-standing indoor unit according to claim 9.

12. At least a portion of the containment container (72) is in contact with the rear edge (52) of the drain pan (50). A floor-standing indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

13. The upper end of the containment container (72) is located higher than the lower end of the heat exchanger (32). A floor-standing indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

14. The drain pan (50) has an outlet (60) for discharging the water inside the drain pan (50) to the outside. The containment container (72) is positioned near the outlet (60). A floor-standing indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

15. The drain pan (50) has a socket (61) that extends downward and rearward from the outlet (60) and is inclined with respect to the vertical and horizontal directions. The floor-standing indoor unit according to claim 14.

16. The drain pan (50) has a front wall (51) formed on the front side of the drain pan (50), a rear wall (52) formed on the rear side of the drain pan (50), and a slope (57) between the bottom surface (56) of the drain pan (50) and the rear wall (52) that is inclined with respect to the bottom surface (56) and the rear wall (52). At least a portion of the outlet (60) is formed on the slope (57) The floor-standing indoor unit according to claim 15.

17. At least a portion of the discharge port (60) does not overlap with the containment container (72) when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the slope (57). The floor-standing indoor unit according to claim 16.

18. An air conditioning system comprising a floor-standing indoor unit (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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