Air conditioning equipment and work vehicles
The air conditioning system on the head guard of a forklift effectively controls temperature in the driver's seat by branching ducts to supply conditioned air and cool the condenser, addressing the issue of ineffective temperature control in open cab vehicles.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- KOMATSU LTD
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-27
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-09
Smart Images
Figure 2026115788000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner and a work vehicle.
Background Art
[0002] A work vehicle such as a forklift may include a driver's seat disposed in an open cab that is not covered with glass or the like. Due to warming or sweltering heat, it is desirable to directly cool the operator in the driver's seat. Techniques for placing on the head guard of a forklift are known (see, for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2).
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0003]
Patent Document 1
Patent Document 2
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0004] Since the driver's seat is open, it is necessary to cool the operator so as not to yield to natural wind or wind during traveling. Further, since the driver's seat is open, warm outside air is always taken in, and the temperature of the cold air becomes higher as the outside air temperature rises. Therefore, it is desirable to appropriately temperature-control the air.
[0005] Aspects of the present disclosure aim to provide an air conditioner and a work vehicle capable of appropriately temperature-controlling air.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0006] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an air conditioning system is provided, comprising a casing, a heat exchanger intake port located upstream of a heat exchanger, a duct located downstream of the heat exchanger and within the casing, and a condenser intake passage located within the casing, branching off from between the heat exchanger and the duct and communicating with a condenser.
[0007] According to an aspect of this disclosure, a work vehicle is provided comprising the above-mentioned air conditioning unit, a vehicle body, and a work machine, wherein the air conditioning unit is positioned on a head guard positioned above the vehicle body.
[0008] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a work vehicle is provided comprising an air conditioning system comprising a casing, a heat exchanger disposed within the casing, a heat exchanger outlet, a duct, a condenser, and a condenser intake passage, wherein the duct comprises a first duct connected to the heat exchanger outlet, a second duct connected to the first duct and opening to the outside of the casing, and a third duct connected to the first duct and opening to the inside of the casing, the condenser intake passage connects the third duct and the condenser, and the air conditioning system has a rear portion of the casing protruding rearward from the head guard, and the duct is located to the left of the head guard. [Effects of the Invention]
[0009] According to aspects of this disclosure, an air conditioning system and a work vehicle capable of appropriately controlling the temperature of the air are provided. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a forklift according to the first embodiment, viewed from the front left. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the forklift according to the first embodiment, viewed from the right rear. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a plan view showing the arrangement of components within the casing of the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4]Figure 4 is a perspective view from the front left showing the arrangement of components inside the casing of the air conditioning unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view taken from the right rear, showing the arrangement of components within the casing of the air conditioning unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment, viewed from the lower left rear. [Figure 7] Figure 7 illustrates the branching of air in an air conditioning system according to the first embodiment, where (A) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a joint, and (B) is a schematic diagram showing the airflow. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example 1 of the intake air passage of the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of components inside the casing of an air conditioning unit according to modified duct design 1, and is a plan view with the casing removed. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioning system relating to modified duct design 2, viewed from the front left. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioning system relating to modified duct design 3, viewed from the front right. [Figure 12] Figure 12 illustrates the branching of air in an air conditioning system according to the second embodiment, where (A) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a third duct equipped with a check valve, and (B) is a schematic diagram showing the airflow. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing the airflow in an air conditioning system equipped with a check valve according to Modification 1. [Figure 14] Figure 14 illustrates the branching of air in an air conditioning system equipped with a check valve according to Modification 2, where (A) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a joint equipped with a check valve, and (B) is a schematic diagram showing the airflow. [Figure 15] Figure 15 illustrates the branching of air in an air conditioning system equipped with a check valve according to Modification 3, where (A) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a joint equipped with a check valve, and (B) is a schematic diagram showing the airflow. [Figure 16]FIG. 16 is a schematic view showing a modification 3 of the check valve of the air conditioner according to the second embodiment.
Mode for Carrying Out the Invention
[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The components of each embodiment described below can be combined as appropriate. Also, some components may not be used.
[0012] In the embodiment, the positional relationship of each part will be described using the terms left, right, front, rear, up, and down. These terms indicate the relative position or direction based on the origin of the vehicle body coordinate system defined for the forklift. Left and right are defined such that the right hand side is the right and the left hand side is the left when facing forward of the forklift.
[0013] [First Embodiment] [Overall Configuration of Forklift] The work vehicle has a work implement. In the embodiment, it is assumed that the work vehicle 1 is a forklift 1. In the embodiment, the work vehicle 1 will be referred to as the forklift 1 as appropriate. Note that the work vehicle is not limited to a forklift, and may be other work vehicles such as a shovel having an open cab, for example.
[0014] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of the forklift according to the first embodiment as seen from the front left. FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the forklift according to the first embodiment as seen from the rear right. The forklift 1 includes a vehicle body 10, a power source not shown, a work implement 13 disposed in front of the vehicle body 10, a traveling device that supports the vehicle body 10, and a driver's cab 20. The power source drives a hydraulic pump and a transmission not shown. The power source is, for example, a battery.
[0015] A work device 13 for lifting transported goods is installed at the front of the vehicle body 10. The work device 13 includes a backrest 16, a mast 15, forks 14, a lift cylinder (not shown), a tilt cylinder (not shown), and a side shift cylinder (not shown). The mast 15 is mounted in front of the vehicle body 10 so as to be rotatable around a left-right axis. The mast 15 can assume a forward or backward tilting position relative to the vehicle body 10. The backrest 16 is supported by the mast 15. The backrest 16 moves up and down along the mast 15. The forks 14 are supported by the backrest 16. The forks 14 move up and down along the mast 15 together with the backrest 16.
[0016] The lift cylinder moves the backrest 16 and fork 14 vertically relative to the vehicle body 10. The tilt cylinder tilts the mast 15 in the front-to-back direction relative to the vehicle body 10. The side shift cylinder moves the backrest 16 and fork 14 horizontally relative to the vehicle body 10.
[0017] The running gear moves the forklift 1. The running gear controls the forward movement, braking, and steering of the forklift 1. The running gear has front wheels 11 and rear wheels 12.
[0018] Each of the front wheels 11 and rear wheels 12 supports the vehicle body 10. At least a portion of the front wheels 11 is positioned below the vehicle body 10. At least a portion of the rear wheels 12 is positioned below the vehicle body 10. The front wheels 11 are positioned in front of the rear wheels 12. The front wheels 11 are positioned on the left and right sides of the vehicle body 10. The rear wheels 12 are positioned on the left and right sides of the vehicle body 10. Each of the front wheels 11 and rear wheels 12 is rotatable about a pivot axis.
[0019] A travel motor (not shown) generates the driving force to move the forklift 1 forward. The travel motor rotates the front wheels 11, thereby moving the forklift 1 forward or backward. The travel motor is driven by hydraulic fluid discharged from a hydraulic pump (not shown).
[0020] The driver's cab 20 is an open type, not enclosed by glass or other materials. The driver's cab 20 houses a driver's seat 21 where the operator of the forklift 1 sits. Pillars 25 and 26 are arranged around the driver's cab 20. The pillars 25 shown in Figures 1 and 2 extend from the front lower to the rear upper of the driver's seat 21. A pair of pillars 25 are arranged spaced apart in the left-right direction. The pillars 26 extend from the rear lower to the rear upper of the driver's seat 21. A pair of pillars 26 are arranged spaced apart in the left-right direction. The shape of the pillars 25 and 26 is not limited to these. For example, they may consist of a front pillar, a rear pillar, and a beam connecting the front pillar and the rear pillar. A head guard 27 is positioned above the pillars 25 and 26. The head guard 27 is positioned above the driver's cab 20. The head guard 27 is, for example, entirely lattice-shaped, or at least part of it is lattice-shaped, formed by combining plate material and lattice members.
[0021] <Air conditioner> Figure 3 is a plan view showing the arrangement of components within the casing of the air conditioning unit according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 is a perspective view taken from the front left showing the arrangement of components within the casing of the air conditioning unit according to the first embodiment. Figure 5 is a perspective view taken from the rear right showing the arrangement of components within the casing of the air conditioning unit according to the first embodiment. Figure 6 is a schematic view of the air conditioning unit according to the first embodiment taken from the lower rear left. As shown in Figure 6, the forklift 1 is equipped with an air conditioning unit 3. The air conditioning unit 3 is positioned on a head guard 27 located above the body 10 of the forklift 1.
[0022] As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the air conditioning unit 3 comprises a heat exchanger 4, a compressor 5, a duct 6, a condenser 7, a cooling fan 8, and a casing 30. Furthermore, the air conditioning unit 3 includes a shielding section 9. The heat exchanger 4, compressor 5, condenser 7, and cooling fan 8 are housed within the casing 30.
[0023] As shown in Figure 6, the casing 30 is box-shaped. The casing 30 is positioned above and behind the driver's seat 21. The casing 30 is positioned on the head guard 27, which is located above the body 10 of the forklift 1. The width of the casing 30 in the left-right direction is smaller than the width of the head guard 27. The casing 30 is positioned behind the front end 27a of the head guard 27. The rear of the casing 30 protrudes rearward from the head guard 27.
[0024] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the casing 30's external shape is defined by wall sections 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d, 30e, and 30f. Wall section 30a is the bottom wall of the casing 30. Wall section 30a is the wall section facing downwards of the casing 30. Wall section 30b is the upper wall section of the casing 30. Wall section 30b is the wall section facing upwards of the casing 30. Wall sections 30a and 30b are positioned opposite each other, spaced apart in the vertical direction. Wall section 30c is the left wall section of the casing 30. Wall section 30c is the wall section facing lefts of the casing 30. Wall section 30e is the right wall section of the casing 30. Wall section 30e is the wall section facing rights of the casing 30. Wall sections 30c and 30e are positioned opposite each other, spaced apart in the left-right direction. Wall section 30d is the rear wall of the casing 30. Wall section 30d is the wall facing the rear of the casing 30. Wall section 30f is the front wall of the casing 30. Wall section 30f is the wall facing the front of the casing 30. Wall sections 30d and 30f are positioned opposite each other, spaced apart in the front-back direction.
[0025] As shown in Figures 3 to 5, a partition wall 31 is arranged inside the casing 30. The partition wall 31 divides the inside of the casing 30 into two spaces. The partition wall 31 extends in the left-right direction when viewed in the vertical direction (plan view). The left end of the partition wall 31 is connected to wall section 30c, and the right end is connected to wall section 30e. The upper end of the partition wall 31 is connected to wall section 30b, and the lower end is connected to wall section 30a. The partition wall 31 is located between the heat exchanger intake port 47 and the condenser 7 of the heat exchanger casing 41, which will be described later. The partition wall 31 is located between the heat exchanger intake port 47 and the condenser intake port 34 of the heat exchanger casing 41. Inside the casing 30, the area in front of the partition wall 31 is designated as the heat exchange chamber 30S, and the area behind it is designated as the condenser chamber 30T.
[0026] The heat exchange chamber 30S houses the heat exchanger 4 and the compressor 5. The condenser chamber 30T houses the condenser 7 and the cooling fan 8. The condenser chamber 30T tends to become hotter than the heat exchange chamber 30S.
[0027] The partition wall 31 has a folded portion 31a. The folded portion 31a is positioned to block the area above the heat exchanger intake port 47 of the heat exchanger casing 41, which will be described later. In other words, the folded portion 31a is formed by cutting a section of the partition wall 31 at a position corresponding to the width of the heat exchanger intake port 47 of the heat exchanger casing 41 in the left-right direction and folding it forward. The vertical depth of the cut is approximately the same as the upper end of the heat exchanger casing 41.
[0028] As shown in Figure 1, a casing intake port 32 is located in the wall portion 30c. The casing intake port 32 is located on the left-facing side of the casing 30. The casing intake port 32 is positioned facing left. The casing intake port 32 is located in the wall portion 30c at a position corresponding to the heat exchange chamber 30S (Figure 3). The casing intake port 32 is located opposite the compressor 5 (Figure 3) with the heat exchanger 4 (Figure 3) in between. The casing intake port 32 is a rectangular opening that is long in the front-to-back direction. The casing intake port 32 draws outside air from outside the casing 30 into the heat exchange chamber 30S.
[0029] As shown in Figure 6, a condenser intake port 34 is located in the wall portion 30a. The condenser intake port 34 is located on the downward-facing surface of the casing 30. The condenser intake port 34 is positioned facing downwards. The condenser intake port 34 is located in the wall portion 30a at a position corresponding to the condenser chamber 30T (Figure 3). In the casing 30, the condenser intake port 34 is located between the condenser 7 (Figure 3) and the partition wall 31 (Figure 3). The condenser intake port 34 is located behind the shielding portion 9. The condenser intake port 34 is located between the condenser exhaust port 35 and the shielding portion 9. The condenser intake port 34 is a rectangular opening that is long in the left-right direction. The condenser intake port 34 draws outside air from outside the casing 30 into the condenser chamber 30T.
[0030] As shown in Figure 6, a condenser exhaust port 35 is located in the wall portion 30d. The condenser exhaust port 35 is located on the rearward-facing surface of the casing 30. The condenser exhaust port 35 is positioned facing rearward. The condenser exhaust port 35 is located behind the rear end portion 27b of the head guard 27. The width of the condenser exhaust port 35 in the longitudinal direction, which is the vehicle width direction, is smaller than the width of the shielding portion 9. The condenser exhaust port 35 is located above the shielding portion 9. The condenser exhaust port 35 is a rectangular opening that is long in the left-right direction. The condenser exhaust port 35 exhausts air from the condenser chamber 30T (Figure 3) to the outside of the casing 30. The condenser exhaust port 35 exhausts air from the condenser 7 (Figure 3) to the outside.
[0031] As shown in Figure 3, an insulating material 39 is placed on the inner circumferential surface of the casing 30. The insulating material 39 defines the intake passage FC, which is the condenser intake passage, between the wall portion 30b of the casing 30 and the upper surface of the heat exchanger casing 41 of the heat exchanger 4. The insulating material 39 comprises a plate-shaped wall portion corresponding to the wall portion 30b of the casing 30, and a straight wall portion extending downward from the left and right ends of the wall portion. The space between the insulating material 39 and the upper surface of the heat exchanger casing 41 of the heat exchanger 4 forms the intake passage FC. The insulating material 39 is, for example, an elastic material such as a porous body. The insulating material 39 is placed in a state of being pressed by the wall portion 30b of the casing 30 and the upper surface of the heat exchanger casing 41 of the heat exchanger 4.
[0032] As shown in Figure 3, the heat exchanger 4 controls the temperature of the air drawn into the heat exchange chamber 30S of the casing 30 from the casing intake port 32 (Figure 1). The heat exchanger 4 comprises an intake fan 42, an evaporator 43, and a heater core 44. The intake fan 42, evaporator 43, and heater core 44 are housed within the heat exchanger casing 41. In this embodiment, the heat exchanger 4 is located on the left side within the casing 30.
[0033] The intake fan 42 is a fan that draws outside air into the heat exchange chamber 30S of the casing 30. The intake fan 42 is positioned facing the partition wall 31. The intake fan 42 is positioned in front of the partition wall 31.
[0034] The evaporator 43 is located in front of the intake fan 42. The evaporator 43 evaporates the refrigerant of the air conditioning unit 3. By vaporizing the refrigerant of the air conditioning unit 3, the evaporator 43 absorbs heat from the surrounding air and cools the air.
[0035] The heater core 44 is located in front of the evaporator 43.
[0036] The evaporator 43 and heater core 44 regulate the temperature of the air drawn into the heat exchange chamber 30S of the casing 30. The regulated air is then blown out into the duct 6.
[0037] A heat exchanger intake port 47 is located in the heat exchanger casing 41. The heat exchanger intake port 47 is located upstream of the heat exchanger 4. The heat exchanger intake port 47 is located upstream of the intake fan 42. The heat exchanger intake port 47 is located on the rear-facing side of the heat exchanger casing 41. The heat exchanger intake port 47 is facing backward. The heat exchanger intake port 47 is located opposite the partition wall 31. The heat exchanger intake port 47 is located opposite the intake fan 42. The heat exchanger intake port 47 is a rectangular opening that is long in the left-right direction. The heat exchanger intake port 47 draws in outside air drawn in from the casing intake port 32 (Figure 1) of the casing 30 into the heat exchanger casing 41.
[0038] A heat exchanger outlet 48 is located in the heat exchanger casing 41. The heat exchanger outlet 48 is located downstream of the heat exchanger 4. The heat exchanger outlet 48 is located downstream of the heater core 44. The heat exchanger outlet 48 is located on the front-facing surface of the heat exchanger casing 41. The heat exchanger outlet 48 is facing forward. The heat exchanger outlet 48 is located opposite the duct 6. The heat exchanger outlet 48 is a rectangular opening that is long in the left-right direction. The heat exchanger outlet 48 blows temperature-controlled air from the heat exchanger 4 into the duct 6.
[0039] As shown in Figure 3, the compressor 5 is, for example, an electric compressor. The compressor 5 compresses the refrigerant of the air conditioning unit 3. The compressor 5 circulates the refrigerant of the air conditioning unit 3 through the refrigerant piping C1 and converts it into a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant that is easily liquefied in the condenser 7. The compressor 5 becomes hot when the air conditioning unit 3 is operating. The compressor 5 is positioned opposite the casing intake port 32 (Figure 1) with the heat exchanger 4 in between. The compressor 5 is positioned further inside the casing 30 than the heat exchanger intake port 47 when viewed from the casing intake port 32. The compressor 5 is positioned off the flow path from the casing intake port 32 to the heat exchanger intake port 47. In this embodiment, the compressor 5 is positioned to the right of the center inside the casing 30.
[0040] As shown in Figure 3, duct 6 supplies temperature-controlled air to the operator in the driver's seat 21 (Figure 1). Duct 6 is located downstream of the heat exchanger 4. Duct 6 is located in front of the casing 30. Duct 6 is connected to the heat exchanger outlet 48. Duct 6 comprises a first duct 61, a second duct 62, a joint 63, an outlet 65, and a third duct 66. The first duct 61, the second duct 62, and the joint 63 are in communication. One or more ducts 6 are arranged. Duct 6 is located to the left of the head guard 27. In this embodiment, duct 6 is located within the casing 30, slightly to the left of the center.
[0041] The first duct 61 branches into a flow path F that blows temperature-controlled air into the driver's seat and an intake flow path FC, which will be described later. The first duct 61 is connected to the heat exchanger outlet 48 of the heat exchanger 4 via a joint 63. The second duct 62 and the third duct 66 are connected to the downstream side of the first duct 61.
[0042] The second duct 62 blows temperature-controlled air towards the driver's seat. The second duct 62 opens to the outside of the casing 30 of the air conditioning unit 3. The second duct 62 is a bellows-shaped, plastic hose. The second duct 62 may also be flexible. The end of the second duct 62 is an air outlet 65.
[0043] The air outlet 65 blows temperature-controlled air toward the operator in the driver's seat 21. One or more air outlets 65 are provided.
[0044] The third duct 66 is connected to the first duct 61. The third duct 66 is located above the joint 63. The third duct 66 is located above the heat exchanger casing 41 of the heat exchanger 4. The third duct 66 has a rectangular opening. The third duct 66 opens into the casing 30 of the air conditioning unit 3. The third duct 66 opens facing the intake air passage FC. In this embodiment, the third duct 66 opens facing rear.
[0045] The condenser 7 has a cooling function via an intake air passage FC (Figure 3). The intake air passage FC is located inside the casing 30, branching off from between the heat exchanger 4 and the duct 6 and positioned between it and the condenser 7.
[0046] Figure 7 illustrates the branching of air in an air conditioning system according to the first embodiment, where (A) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a joint and (B) is a schematic diagram showing the airflow. The joint 63 shown in Figure 7(A) comprises a frame 631 and a branching plate 632. The joint 63 is positioned between the duct 6 and the heat exchanger 4. The frame 631 is prismatic in shape. The frame 631 has an outer shape that allows connection to the heat exchanger outlet 48 of the heat exchanger 4. The branching plate 632 is positioned inside the frame 631. The branching plate 632 of the joint 63 shown in Figure 7(A) divides the frame 631 into two spaces A1 and A2 in the vertical direction. For example, one of spaces A1 and A2 supplies air to the driver's seat 21 via the first duct 61 and the second duct 62, and the other draws air into the condenser 7 via the intake air passage FC (Figure 3).
[0047] Figure 7(B) is a schematic diagram showing the airflow in the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment. In accordance with the shape of the joint 63 described above, a branching plate 61a is arranged inside the first duct 61 to branch the airflow to the second duct 62 and the third duct 66. The branching plate 61a returns the air that has passed through space A1 separated by the branching plate 632 inside the joint 63 back into the casing 30 of the air conditioning system 3, and supplies the air that has passed through space A2 to the outlet 65.
[0048] As shown in Figure 3, the condenser 7 condenses the refrigerant of the air conditioning unit 3. By condensing the refrigerant of the air conditioning unit 3, the condenser 7 releases the heat absorbed by the evaporator 43 to the outside air. The condenser 7 becomes hot when the air conditioning unit 3 is operating. The condenser 7 is positioned opposite the heat exchanger intake port 47, separated by a partition wall 31. The condenser 7 is located on the head guard 27 (Figure 6).
[0049] As shown in Figure 3, the cooling fan 8 is a fan that cools the condenser 7. The cooling fan 8 is a fan that draws outside air into the condenser chamber 30T of the casing 30. The cooling fan 8 is positioned facing the wall portion 30d (Figure 6) of the casing 30. The cooling fan 8 is positioned behind the condenser 7. The cooling fan 8 is positioned between the condenser intake port 34 (Figure 6) and the condenser exhaust port 35 (Figure 6). The cooling fan 8 is an axial flow fan.
[0050] The condenser 7 is cooled by the cooling fan 8 using temperature-controlled air supplied from the intake passage FC (Figure 3) and outside air drawn in from the condenser intake port 34 (Figure 6).
[0051] As shown in Figures 2 and 6, the shielding portion 9 is located at the rear of the driver's cab 20. The shielding portion 9 is located behind the backrest 21a of the driver's seat 21. The shielding portion 9 is located between a pair of pillars 26. The shielding portion 9 is located behind the rear end 27b of the head guard 27 and below the head guard 27. The shielding portion 9 has a height greater than or equal to the backrest 21a of the driver's seat 21.
[0052] The shielding section 9 is provided to block the operating noise of the cooling fan 8 of the air conditioning unit 3. The shielding section 9 is, for example, made of a transparent sheet of resin, an acrylic plate, or a mesh.
[0053] The air conditioning unit 3 is operated by an operating unit 50 located in the operator's cab 20. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the operating unit 50 accepts operations such as switching the air conditioning unit 3 ON and OFF. The operating unit 50 is electrically connected to each part of the air conditioning unit 3 via electrical wiring C2.
[0054] <Action and Function> When the air conditioning unit 3 is turned ON, the intake fan 42 and the cooling fan 8 start operating.
[0055] When the intake fan 42 of the heat exchanger 4 is activated, outside air is drawn into the heat exchange chamber 30S inside the casing 30 from the casing intake port 32 (Figure 1) of the casing 30. The outside air drawn into the casing 30 passes around the outer circumference of the heat exchanger casing 41 of the heat exchanger 4 and is drawn into the heat exchanger casing 41 from the heat exchanger intake port 47. In the heat exchanger 4, the air is temperature-controlled as it passes through the intake fan 42, evaporator 43, and heater core 44 in that order, and is then blown out into the duct 6 from the heat exchanger outlet 48. At the joint 63 of the duct 6, a portion of the temperature-controlled air is supplied to the driver's seat 21 via the first duct 61 and the second duct 62, and the remainder is supplied to the intake passage FC.
[0056] When the cooling fan 8 is activated, outside air is drawn into the condenser chamber 30T of the casing 30 from the condenser intake port 34 of the casing 30. When the cooling fan 8 is activated, the air drawn into the intake passage FC, along with the outside air drawn in from the condenser intake port 34 (Figure 6), is blown onto the condenser 7 by the cooling fan 8. The outside air drawn into the casing 30 and the temperature-controlled air supplied from the intake passage FC cool the condenser 7 and are then exhausted to the outside from the condenser exhaust port 35 of the casing 30.
[0057] <Effects> As described above, in this embodiment, the heat exchanger 4 comprises a casing 30, the heat exchanger 4, a heat exchanger intake port 47, a duct 6, and an intake passage FC which is a condenser intake passage that branches off from between the heat exchanger 4 and the duct 6 and communicates with the condenser 7. In this embodiment, the intake passage FC allows air that was not supplied to the outlet 65 in the duct 6 to be supplied to the condenser 7. According to this embodiment, temperature-controlled air can be supplied compared to the case where only outside air is drawn in from the condenser intake port 34. According to this embodiment, the air can be temperature-controlled more appropriately.
[0058] In this embodiment, the duct 6 comprises a first duct 61, a second duct 62, and a third duct 66. In this embodiment, the duct 6 supplies temperature-controlled air from the air conditioning unit 3 to the operator in the driver's seat, and a portion of it can be supplied to the condenser 7 via the intake air passage FC.
[0059] In this embodiment, the casing 30 is equipped with a condenser 7 positioned facing the heat exchanger intake port 47, and a partition wall 31 is positioned between the heat exchanger intake port 47 and the condenser 7. According to this embodiment, the partition wall 31 can partition the space within the casing 30 into a heat exchange chamber 30S, a condenser chamber 30T, and an intake air passage FC. According to this embodiment, it is possible to suppress the reduction in the temperature control effect of the heat exchanger 4.
[0060] In this embodiment, the cooling fan 8 can properly exhaust the air cooled by the condenser 7 through the condenser exhaust port 35.
[0061] In this embodiment, a condenser intake port 34 is provided on the intake passage FC, which is the condenser intake passage. According to this embodiment, outside air drawn in from the condenser intake port 34 and temperature-controlled air returned from the duct 6 can be supplied to the condenser 7 via the intake passage FC.
[0062] In this embodiment, the casing intake port 32 is positioned between the second duct 62 and the partition wall 31. According to this embodiment, outside air drawn in from the casing intake port 32 can be supplied to the heat exchanger 4.
[0063] In this embodiment, the compressor 5 is positioned further inside the casing 30 than the heat exchanger intake port 47, as viewed from the casing intake port 32. According to this embodiment, the compressor 5 can be positioned away from the airflow path from which air drawn into the casing 30 from the casing intake port 32 proceeds to the heat exchanger intake port 47. According to this embodiment, the efficiency of heat exchange in the heat exchange chamber 30S can be improved.
[0064] In this embodiment, the air conditioning unit 3 is positioned on a head guard 27 located above the vehicle body 10. In this embodiment, by placing the air conditioning unit 3 on the head guard 27, the operator's forward and upward field of view can be ensured. In this embodiment, the air conditioning unit 3 can be positioned so that it does not protrude from the rear end of the forklift 1.
[0065] In this embodiment, the rear of the casing 30 of the air conditioning unit 3 protrudes rearward from the head guard 27. In this embodiment, the air conditioning unit 3 can be mounted on the head guard 27 while ensuring the operator's forward and upward field of view.
[0066] [Modified example of the intake passage 1] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example 1 of the intake air passage of the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment. The thermal insulation material 39 is arranged on the upper surface of the heat exchanger casing 41 of the heat exchanger 4. The thermal insulation material 39 is arranged parallel to the left-right direction when viewed in the vertical direction. The thermal insulation material 39 is in the form of a rod, arranged along the front-rear direction at the left end and right end of the upper surface of the heat exchanger casing 41 of the heat exchanger 4. The front end of the thermal insulation material 39 is connected to the third duct 66. The rear end of the thermal insulation material 39 abuts against the partition wall 31.
[0067] [Modified Intake Passage 2] The insulation material 39 is arranged such that, when viewed in the vertical direction, the spacing in the horizontal direction widens as you move from the third duct 66 side towards the condenser 7 side.
[0068] [Modified example 1 of the joint in the first embodiment] In modification 1 of the joint, the branching plate 632 of the joint 63 branches into the duct 6 and the casing 30 of the air conditioning unit 3 within the joint 63. The branching plate 632 divides the frame portion 631 into two spaces A1 and A2 in the left-right direction. For example, one of the spaces A1 and A2 supplies air to the driver's seat 21 via the first duct 61 and the second duct 62, while the other draws air into the condenser 7 via the intake passage FC (Figure 3).
[0069] [Modified joint in the first embodiment, part 2] In modification 2 of the joint, the branch plate 632 of the joint 63 divides the frame portion 631 diagonally into two spaces A1 and A2. For example, one of the spaces A1 and A2 supplies air to the driver's seat 21 via the first duct 61 and the second duct 62, while the other draws air into the condenser 7 via the intake passage FC (Figure 3).
[0070] [Modification 1 of the duct in the first embodiment] Modification 1 of the duct 6 will be explained using Figure 9. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of components inside the casing of the air conditioning unit according to Modification 1 of the duct, and is a plan view with the casing removed. Modification 1 differs in that a third duct 66 is provided on the connection side of the first duct 61 of the duct 6 to the joint 63, extending toward the casing intake port 32. In Modification 1, a third duct 66 is provided on the rear side of the first duct 61 of the duct 6, extending to the left. At the joint 63 of the duct 6, a portion of the temperature-controlled air is supplied to the driver's seat 21 via the first duct 61 and the second duct 62, and the remainder is drawn into the condenser 7 via the intake passage FC (Figure 3). In this case, the joint 63 may be, for example, the shape of Modification 1 or Modification 2 of the joint. According to the modification, the intake passage FC can be placed to the left, away from the compressor 5 which becomes hot in the heat exchange chamber 30S. According to the modification, temperature changes of the gas passing through the intake passage FC can be suppressed.
[0071] [Modified duct in the first embodiment, part 2] Using Figure 10, we will explain the second modification of the duct. Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the air conditioning unit according to the second modification of the duct, viewed from the front left. The duct 6 of the second modification differs in the shape of the second duct 62. The second duct 62 has a shape in which the side that blows air to the driver's seat 21 is forked to the left and right. According to the modification, temperature-controlled air can be supplied from the upper right front and upper left front of the driver's seat 21.
[0072] In the modified configuration, the duct 6 is positioned in front of the casing 30, which is located above and behind the driver's seat. In the modified configuration, multiple second ducts 62 of the duct 6 are provided.
[0073] [Modified example 3 of the duct in the first embodiment] Using Figure 11, a third modification of the duct will be explained. Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the air conditioning system according to the third modification of the duct, viewed from the front right. In the third modification, the duct 6 has a second duct 62 that is flexible and hose-like, and its piping position can be changed arbitrarily. In the example shown in Figure 11, the second duct 62 is piped from the front upper part of the driver's seat 21, through the rear upper part, to the top of the backrest of the driver's seat 21. In this case, temperature-controlled air can be supplied from the back side of the operator in the driver's seat 21. In addition, the air outlet 65 can be placed at any position according to the operator's preference.
[0074] In the modified version, since the duct 6 is flexible, temperature-controlled air can be supplied to the driver's seat 21 from any position. In the embodiment, cool air can be supplied so as not to be affected by natural wind or wind during driving.
[0075] [Modified example 1 of the arrangement of each component in the first embodiment] In the modified arrangement of the components (modification 1), the compressor 5 is positioned on the left, and the casing intake port 32 is positioned on the wall portion 30e of the casing 30, which is located on the right (not shown).
[0076] [Modified arrangement of each component in the first embodiment, part 2] In Modification 2 of the arrangement of each component, the compressor 5 is placed in the condenser chamber 30T. In Modification 2, by placing the compressor 5, which becomes hot, in the condenser chamber 30T, the efficiency of heat exchange in the heat exchange chamber 30S can be improved.
[0077] [Second Embodiment] Figure 12 illustrates the branching of air in an air conditioning system according to the second embodiment, where (A) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a third duct equipped with a check valve, and (B) is a schematic diagram showing the airflow. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the third duct 66 is equipped with a check valve 69. The joint 63 in this embodiment does not have a branch plate 632. Other aspects are configured the same as in the first embodiment. The description of similar configurations is omitted.
[0078] The check valve 69 is a single plate-shaped member. The check valve 69 is positioned to open and close relative to the third duct 66 around its pivot axis 69a. The pivot axis 69a of the check valve 69 is positioned along the upper long side of the rectangular opening of the third duct 66. When the airflow of the temperature-controlled air blown from the air conditioner 3 is strong, the check valve 69 rotates and lifts to open the opening of the third duct 66 with the temperature-controlled air, and when the airflow is weak, it rotates by its own weight to close the opening of the third duct 66. Regardless of the state of the check valve 69, the connection from the first duct 61 to the second duct 62 is always open (in communication).
[0079] Regardless of the state of the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the driver's seat 21 via the second duct 62. Even when the third duct 66 is closed by the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the driver's seat 21 via the second duct 62. When the third duct 66 is closed by the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is not supplied to the intake passage FC. When the check valve 69 is rotated and the third duct 66 is open, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the condenser 7 through the intake passage FC.
[0080] <Effects> As described above, in this embodiment, when the airflow from the air conditioner 3 is strong, the check valve 69 opens the third duct 66, allowing temperature-controlled air to be supplied to the condenser 7 via the intake air passage FC. In this embodiment, when the airflow from the air conditioner 3 is weak, the check valve 69 closes the third duct 66, allowing temperature-controlled air to be supplied only to the driver's seat 21. Thus, according to this embodiment, temperature-controlled air can be supplied to the condenser 7 via the intake air passage FC only when the airflow from the air conditioner 3 is sufficient.
[0081] In this embodiment, the check valve 69 can be rotated by the air pressure and weight of the temperature-controlled air. According to this embodiment, the check valve 69 can be rotated without the need for an electrically driven rotation mechanism or an operator-driven rotation mechanism.
[0082] [Modified example 1 of the check valve in the second embodiment] A modified example 1 of the check valve 69 will be described using Figure 13. Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing the airflow in an air conditioning system equipped with a check valve according to Modified Example 1. In this modified example, the check valve 69 is provided at the joint 63 of the duct 6. The joint 63 in this modified example does not have a branch plate 632.
[0083] A notch (not shown) is provided in the upward-facing wall portion of the frame portion 631 of the joint 63, which is opened and closed by a check valve 69. The notch has a rectangular outer shape similar to that of the check valve 69.
[0084] The check valve 69 is a single plate-shaped member. The rotation axis 69a of the check valve 69 is positioned along the long side of the notch in the joint 63. The check valve 69 is positioned to open and close relative to the notch in the joint 63 around the rotation axis 69a. When the airflow of temperature-controlled air blown from the air conditioner 3 is strong, the check valve 69 rotates and lifts to open the notch in the joint 63 with the temperature-controlled air, and when the airflow is weak, it rotates by its own weight to close the notch in the joint 63. Regardless of the state of the check valve 69, the first duct 61 and the second duct 62 are always in communication (open).
[0085] Regardless of the state of the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the driver's seat 21 via the second duct 62. Even when the notch of the joint 63 is closed by the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the driver's seat 21 via the second duct 62. When the notch of the joint 63 is closed by the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is not supplied to the intake passage FC. When the check valve 69 is rotated and the notch of the joint 63 is opened, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the condenser 7 through the intake passage FC.
[0086] In this modified example, the check valve 69 can be rotated by the air pressure and weight of the temperature-controlled air.
[0087] [Modified example 2 of the check valve in the second embodiment] A modified example of the check valve 69, Part 2, will be described using Figure 14. Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating the branching of air in an air conditioning system equipped with a check valve according to Modified Example 2, where (A) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a joint equipped with a check valve, and (B) is a schematic diagram showing the airflow. In this modified example, the check valve 69 differs from that in Modified Example 1. The joint 63 in this modified example is equipped with a branch plate 632 as shown in Figure 7(A).
[0088] A check valve 69 is positioned facing the space A1 partitioned by the branch plate 632 of the joint 63. Space A1 is opened and closed by the check valve 69.
[0089] The check valve 69 is a single plate-shaped member. The rotation axis 69a of the check valve 69 is positioned along the upper long side of the rectangular opening of the joint 63. The check valve 69 is positioned to open and close with respect to the space A1 of the joint 63 around the rotation axis 69a. When the airflow of temperature-controlled air blown from the air conditioner 3 is strong, the check valve 69 rotates and lifts to open the space A1 of the joint 63 with the temperature-controlled air, and when the airflow is weak, it rotates by its own weight to close the space A1 of the joint 63. Regardless of the state of the check valve 69, the space A2 is always open.
[0090] Regardless of the state of the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the driver's seat 21 via the second duct 62. Even when space A1 is closed by the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the driver's seat 21 via space A2. When space A1 is closed by the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is not supplied to the intake passage FC. When the check valve 69 is rotated and space A1 is opened, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the condenser 7 through the intake passage FC.
[0091] In this modified example, the check valve 69 can be rotated by the air pressure and weight of the temperature-controlled air.
[0092] [Modified example 3 of the check valve in the second embodiment] Using Figure 15, a third modification of the check valve 69 will be explained. Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the branching of air in an air conditioning system equipped with a check valve according to the third modification, where (A) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a joint equipped with a check valve, and (B) is a schematic diagram showing the airflow. In this modification, the check valve 69 differs from that in the second modification.
[0093] A check valve 69 is positioned facing the space A1 partitioned by the branch plate 632 of the joint 63. Space A1 is opened and closed by the check valve 69.
[0094] The check valve 69 consists of two plate-shaped members. The check valves 69 are arranged side by side around a rotation axis 69a. The rotation axis 69a of the check valve 69 is located vertically in the center of the space A1 of the joint 63. The check valve 69 is positioned to open and close relative to the space A1 of the joint 63 around the rotation axis 69a. The check valve 69 is equipped with a spring 69b that biases the check valve 69 in the direction of closing the space A1. When the airflow of temperature-controlled air blown from the air conditioner 3 is strong, the check valve 69 rotates to open the space A1 of the joint 63 with the temperature-controlled air, and when the airflow is weak, it rotates by the spring 69b to close the space A1 of the joint 63. Regardless of the state of the check valve 69, the space A2 is always open.
[0095] Regardless of the state of the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the driver's seat 21 via the second duct 62. Even when space A1 is closed by the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the driver's seat 21 via space A2. When space A1 is closed by the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is not supplied to the intake passage FC. When the check valve 69 is rotated and space A1 is opened, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the condenser 7 through the intake passage FC.
[0096] In this modified example, the check valve 69 can be rotated by the air pressure of temperature-controlled air and the spring 69b.
[0097] [Modified example 4 of the check valve in the second embodiment] A modified example 4 of the check valve 69 will be described using Figure 16. Figure 16 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example 4 of the check valve of the air conditioning system according to the second embodiment. In this modified example, the check valve 69 is provided in the third duct 66 of the air conditioning system 3 shown in Figure 9.
[0098] The check valve 69 is positioned to open and close relative to the connection between the first duct 61 and the third duct 66, with respect to the rotation axis 69a. When the airflow of temperature-controlled air blown from the air conditioning unit 3 is strong, the check valve 69 rotates to open the connection between the first duct 61 and the third duct 66 with the temperature-controlled air, and when the airflow is weak, it rotates by a spring (not shown) to close the connection between the first duct 61 and the third duct 66. Regardless of the state of the check valve 69, the connection from the first duct 61 to the second duct 62 is always open (in communication).
[0099] The rotating shaft 69a of the check valve 69 is positioned vertically at the connection point between the first duct 61 and the third duct 66. The check valve 69 is equipped with a spring (not shown) that biases it in the closing direction.
[0100] Regardless of the state of the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the driver's seat 21 via the second duct 62. Even when the connection between the first duct 61 and the third duct 66 is closed by the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the driver's seat 21 via the second duct 62. When the connection between the first duct 61 and the third duct 66 is closed by the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is not supplied to the intake air passage FC. When the check valve 69 is rotated and the connection between the first duct 61 and the third duct 66 is opened, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the condenser 7 through the intake air passage FC.
[0101] In this modified example, the check valve 69 can be rotated by the air pressure of temperature-controlled air and a spring.
[0102] [Modified example 5 of the check valve in the second embodiment] In this modified example, a check valve 69 is provided in the intake air passage FC.
[0103] The check valve 69 is a single plate-shaped member. The check valve 69 is positioned to open and close relative to the intake air passage FC around a rotation axis 69a. The check valve 69 is positioned in the middle of the intake air passage FC, which connects the third duct 66 and the heat exchanger intake port 47. In this modified example, the check valve 69 is positioned near the third duct 66 in the intake air passage FC. The check valve 69 rotates to open the intake air passage FC when the airflow rate of the temperature-controlled air blown out from the air conditioner 3 is strong, and rotates by its own weight to close the intake air passage FC when the airflow rate is weak. Regardless of the state of the check valve 69, the first duct 61 and the second duct 62 are always in communication (open).
[0104] Regardless of the state of the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the driver's seat 21 via the second duct 62. Even when the intake air passage FC is closed by the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the driver's seat 21 via the second duct 62. When the intake air passage FC is closed by the check valve 69, temperature-controlled air is not supplied to the intake air passage FC. When the check valve 69 is rotated and the intake air passage FC is open, temperature-controlled air is supplied to the condenser 7 through the intake air passage FC.
[0105] In this modified example, the check valve 69 can be rotated by the air pressure and weight of the temperature-controlled air. [Explanation of symbols]
[0106] 1...Forklift (work vehicle), 3...Air conditioning unit, 4...Heat exchanger, 5...Compressor, 6...Duct, 7...Condenser, 8...Cooling fan, 9...Shielding section, 10...Vehicle body, 11...Front wheels, 12...Rear wheels, 13...Work equipment, 14...Forks, 15...Mast, 16...Backrest, 20...Driver's cab, 21...Driver's seat, 21a...Backrest, 25...Pillar, 26...Pillar, 27...Head guard, 30...Casing, 30a...Wall section, 30b...Wall section, 30c...Wall section, 30d...Wall section, 30e...Wall section, 30f...Wall section, 30S...Heat exchange chamber, 30T...Condenser chamber 31...partition wall, 32...casing intake port, 34...condenser intake port, 35...condenser exhaust port, 39...insulation material, 41...heat exchanger casing, 42...intake fan, 43...evaporator, 44...heater core, 47...heat exchanger intake port, 48...heat exchanger outlet port, 50...operating unit, 61...first duct, 61a...branch plate inside the first duct, 62...second duct, 63...joint, 631...frame section, 632...branch plate, 65...outlet port, 66...third duct, 69...check valve, C1...refrigerant piping, C2...electrical wiring, FC...intake passage (condenser intake passage).
Claims
1. Casing and, The heat exchanger intake port is located upstream of the heat exchanger, A duct located downstream of the heat exchanger and inside the casing, A condenser intake passage section is provided within the casing, branching off from between the heat exchanger and the duct and communicating with the condenser. An air conditioning system equipped with the following features.
2. Heat exchanger outlet located downstream of the heat exchanger, Equipped with, The duct comprises a first duct connected to the heat exchanger outlet, A second duct, which is connected to the first duct and opens to the outside of the casing, A third duct, which opens into the casing and is connected to the first duct, An air conditioning device according to claim 1, comprising:
3. A check valve located in the third duct or the condenser intake passage, The air conditioning device according to claim 2, comprising:
4. A partition wall is placed between the heat exchanger and the condenser. Equipped with, The partition wall forms a part of the condenser intake passage. The air conditioning device according to claim 1 or 2.
5. A capacitor exhaust port is provided in the casing for discharging air from the capacitor to the outside, A cooling fan is positioned between the capacitor and the capacitor exhaust port. An air conditioning device according to claim 1, comprising:
6. A capacitor intake port is located in the casing and on the capacitor intake passage that connects the third duct and the capacitor, The air conditioning device according to claim 2, comprising:
7. A casing intake port is located in the casing. Equipped with, The casing air intake is located between the second duct and the partition wall. The air conditioning device according to claim 4.
8. A compressor is located further inside the casing than the heat exchanger intake port, as viewed from the casing intake port. The air conditioning device according to claim 7.
9. An air conditioning system according to claim 2 or 3, The car body and, Work equipment and Equipped with, The air conditioning unit is positioned above the vehicle body and on the head guard. Work vehicle.
10. The aforementioned casing is positioned above and behind the driver's seat. The duct is positioned in front of the casing. The second duct is arranged in one or more units. The work vehicle according to claim 9.
11. Casing and, A heat exchanger is placed inside the casing, Heat exchanger outlet and Ducts and, Capacitors and, The condenser intake passage section, An air conditioning system equipped with, The car body and, Work equipment and Equipped with, The duct comprises a first duct connected to the heat exchanger outlet, A second duct, which is connected to the first duct and opens to the outside of the casing, The device comprises a third duct that opens into the casing and is connected to the first duct, The aforementioned condenser intake passage connects the third duct and the condenser. The air conditioning unit has the rear of the casing protruding rearward from the head guard. The aforementioned duct is located to the left of the head guard. Work vehicle.