Dehumidifier
Patent Information
- Application Number
- KR1020250030464
- Authority / Receiving Office
- KR · KR
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-10
- Publication Date
- 2026-09-17
Smart Images
Figure PAT00005_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technology Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a dehumidifier, and more specifically, to a dehumidifier having a heat dissipation structure for heat dissipation of an electrical component provided for operation control of the dehumidifier. Background Technology
[0002] Generally, a dehumidifier is a device or appliance that removes moisture from the air in an indoor space.
[0003] This dehumidifier is configured to remove moisture from air by drawing in air from a space where moisture is to be removed and passing it through a heat exchanger, thereby removing the moisture from the air through heat exchange with said heat exchanger.
[0004] The heat exchanger described above includes a condenser that condenses the refrigerant and an evaporator that evaporates the refrigerant. That is, as air passes through the evaporator, it exchanges heat with the refrigerant to remove moisture, and as it passes through the condenser, it absorbs the heat released from the refrigerant and is supplied to the room in a dry state, thereby lowering the humidity of the indoor space.
[0005] In addition, the dehumidifier is configured to have a water tank, collect and store moisture separated from the air as it passes through the evaporator, and discharge it when necessary.
[0006] Various conventional dehumidifiers of this type are provided in Registered Patent No. 10-2506410, Published Patent Application No. 10-2025-0006644, Published Patent Application No. 10-2025-0006645, Published Patent Application No. 10-2025-0006646, Published Patent Application No. 10-2025-0006647, etc.
[0007] Meanwhile, the dehumidifier is provided with an electrical unit for controlling the operation of various devices, and said electrical unit generates a large amount of heat during the operation of the dehumidifier. This heat generated by the electrical unit affects the performance of surrounding components and also causes problems by affecting the various circuits that make up the electrical unit.
[0008] Therefore, heat dissipation for the above-mentioned electrical components is essential.
[0009] Conventionally, heat was dissipated from the electrical components by installing heat sinks on various circuit components or circuit boards forming the electrical components and by using a separate fan (box fan) to force air to pass through the heat sinks.
[0010] However, in the case of the structure using the aforementioned box fan, additional installation space for the box fan and a structure for its airflow are required, so the overall size of the electrical components inevitably increases, and consequently, the overall size of the dehumidifier inevitably increases.
[0011] In addition, considering that a compressor is provided in the vicinity of the space where the aforementioned electrical unit is located, there was a disadvantage in that the cooling effect was not significant when using the box fan, as the high-temperature heat generated from the compressor flowed to the electrical unit. Prior art literature
[0012] Registered Patent No. 10-2506410, Published Patent Application No. 10-2025-0006644, Published Patent Application No. 10-2025-0006645, Published Patent Application No. 10-2025-0006646, Published Patent Application No. 10-2025-0006647 The problem to be solved
[0013] The present invention has been devised to solve various problems according to the aforementioned prior art, and the objective of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifier according to a new type that enables smooth heat dissipation to the electrical components.
[0014] In addition, the objective of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifier according to a new form that can improve heat dissipation performance while minimizing the volume of the electrical components.
[0015] In addition, the objective of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifier of a new type that does not require a separate heat dissipation fan by enabling heat dissipation of the electrical components using natural convection.
[0016] In addition, the objective of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifier according to a new type that can improve the heat dissipation performance of an electrical unit by allowing air introduced into a space where an electrical unit is located to be discharged after sufficiently passing through the electrical unit. means of solving the problem
[0017] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose, indoor air drawn in by the air suction force generated by the operation of a fan assembly can be configured to dissipate heat from the electrical component as it passes through the electrical component.
[0018] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, a structure may be provided for discharging air sucked in from outside the case to the electrical unit in order to dissipate heat from the electrical unit.
[0019] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, the structure for dissipating heat from the electrical components may include a heat dissipation guide. Thus, air from outside the case can be supplied to the electrical components through the heat dissipation guide.
[0020] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, a heat dissipation guide for dissipating heat from the electrical components may be formed on the base frame.
[0021] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, a heat dissipation guide may be formed in the base frame to guide air from outside the case to be discharged to the electrical section.
[0022] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, the heat dissipation guide may be formed with an opening of a certain size or formed as a tubular body having an opening of a certain size.
[0023] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, a partition frame for dividing the installation space provided within the case into multiple sections may be provided within the case.
[0024] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, the partition frame can be formed to partition the inside of the case into an upper space and a lower space.
[0025] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, a first vertical partition may be formed in the partition frame to provide a first space and a second space separated in the lower space within the case.
[0026] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, a second vertical partition may be formed in the partition frame to provide a second space and a third space separated in the lower space within the case.
[0027] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, a first vertical partition and a second vertical partition may each be formed in the partition frame to provide a first space, a second space, and a third space by separating them in the lower space within the case.
[0028] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, the first space may be formed as a space provided between a partition frame and a perimeter surface on one side within a case. An electrical unit may be located within the first space.
[0029] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, the second space may be formed as a space provided between the partition frame and the other side perimeter surface within the case. A water tank may be located within the second space.
[0030] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, a third space may be provided between the first space and the second space. A compressor may be located within the third space.
[0031] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, an electrical unit may be located in the first space, a water tank may be located in the second space, and a compressor may be located in the third space.
[0032] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, the heat dissipation guide may be formed so that air flows into the first space.
[0033] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, the heat dissipation guide may be formed as a tubular body with an open interior that protrudes upward from the base frame. This prevents leakage to the indoor floor through the heat dissipation guide even if condensation accumulates on the upper surface of the base frame.
[0034] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, the heat dissipation guide may be formed to be open toward a portion of the bottom surface of the electrical unit. This allows air from outside the case, which flows in through the heat dissipation guide, to be directly supplied to the electrical unit.
[0035] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, the heat dissipation guide may be formed to have an elongated opening. This allows the heat dissipation guide to discharge air from outside the case to as many areas as possible along the longitudinal direction of the bottom surface of the electrical unit.
[0036] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, a first opening may be formed on the bottom surface of the electrical unit. As a result, some of the air introduced into the case through the heat dissipation guide can be supplied into the electrical unit through the first opening.
[0037] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, the first opening and the opening of the heat dissipation guide can be positioned vertically offset from each other. As a result, a portion of the air flowing into the case through the heat dissipation guide can pass through the first opening and pass through the electrical section.
[0038] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, a second opening may be formed on the upper surface of the electrical unit. Thus, air passing through the electrical unit may flow through the second opening to the air inlet of the fan assembly.
[0039] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, heat dissipation fins connected to circuit components can be installed so as to be exposed to the outer surface of the electrical components in order to dissipate heat from circuit components with air flowing along the outer surface of the electrical components.
[0040] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, heat dissipation fins are formed by installing a plurality of thin plates spaced apart from each other, and each thin plate may be formed to have different lengths along the slope or curvature formed by the inner surface of an adjacent case.
[0041] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, a passage hole through which air can pass may be formed in the partition frame. Thereby, air that has dissipated heat from the electrical components can pass through the passage hole and flow into the upper space within the case.
[0042] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, the through hole may be positioned vertically offset from the second opening on the upper surface of the electrical unit. This prevents condensate falling through the through hole from flowing into the electrical unit through the second opening.
[0043] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, a guide may be formed in the partition frame to guide air passing through the entire section.
[0044] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, the openings of the guide and the heat dissipation guide can be positioned so as to be offset vertically. As a result, air passing through the heat dissipation guide can flow to the guide after passing through the electrical section and dissipating heat from the electrical section.
[0045] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, the partition frame may be formed to slope upward toward the perimeter in order to guide air passing through the electrical section to flow into the guide.
[0046] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, in order to guide air passing through the electrical section to flow to the guide guide, the partition frame may be formed to slope upward toward the area where the guide guide is formed.
[0047] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, the guide can be formed such that the upper and lower spaces are interconnected around one side of the partition frame so that air can pass through.
[0048] According to the dehumidifier of the present invention, in order to prevent condensation present on the upper surface of the partition frame from falling downward through the guide guide, the upper end of the guide guide may be formed to protrude upward from the upper surface of the partition frame. Effects of the invention
[0049] As described above, the dehumidifier of the present invention forms a heat dissipation guide on the base frame, thereby enabling heat dissipation of the electrical components even without a separate heat dissipation fan being provided.
[0050] In addition, since the dehumidifier of the present invention is not provided with a separate heat dissipation fan, the volume of the electrical components can be minimized.
[0051] In addition, the dehumidifier of the present invention can improve the heat dissipation performance of the electrical component by positioning the opening through which air enters and the opening through which air exits as far apart as possible from the first space where the electrical component is located, and positioning the electrical component between them.
[0052] In addition, the dehumidifier of the present invention is formed so that the heat dissipation fins of the electrical unit are exposed to the outside of the cabinet, and air flows along the surface of the cabinet and passes through the heat dissipation fins, thereby improving the heat dissipation performance of the circuit components.
[0053] In addition, the dehumidifier of the present invention can dissipate heat from circuit components by additionally forming an opening for air inflow or outflow in the electrical unit, thereby forcibly discharging heat from within the electrical unit to the outside of the cabinet and forcibly introducing it into the cabinet of the electrical unit using the air suction force generated by the fan assembly. Brief explanation of the drawing
[0054] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3 are exploded perspective views of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a plan view of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of section AA of FIG. 4 with the water tank separated. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the BB section of FIG. 4. FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating the installation state of a partition frame, a base frame, and an electrical unit of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention in a state where the electrical unit is separated from the partition frame, base frame, and electrical unit. Fig. 9 is an enlarged view of section “A” in Fig. 8. FIG. 10 is a front view of a partition frame of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention in a state where the partition frame and the base frame are separated from each other. FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of section “B” of FIG. 11. FIG. 13 is a side view taken from the direction of the first vertical frame in a state where the partition frame and the base frame are combined in a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a plan view of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention in a state where the partition frame and the base frame are combined. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a cabinet of an electrical unit of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention in a state where the second cover is separated. FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the electrical unit of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the bottom side. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view seen in a plan to illustrate another embodiment of a heat dissipation fin in a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a state diagram showing the temperature distribution of an electrical component in a state where a heat dissipation guide is not provided for a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a state diagram showing the temperature distribution of an electrical component in a state where a heat dissipation guide is provided for a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention
[0055] Embodiments of the present invention are described through exemplary drawings. It should be noted that in assigning reference numerals to the components of each drawing, the same components are given the same reference numeral whenever possible, even if they are shown in different drawings.
[0056] In addition, when describing embodiments of the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known configurations or functions would hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, such detailed description is omitted.
[0057] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used when describing the components of the embodiments of the present invention. These terms are intended only to distinguish the components from other components, and the essence, order, or sequence of the components is not limited by the terms. Where it is stated that a component is "connected," "combined," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or connected to the other component, but that another component may also be "connected," "combined," or "connected" between each component.
[0058] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the dehumidifier of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached FIGS. 1 to 19.
[0059] The attached FIGS. 1 to 3 are perspective and exploded perspective views of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. In addition, FIG. 4 is a plan view of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 5 and 6 are front and side cross-sectional views viewed from different directions.
[0060] As illustrated in these drawings, the dehumidifier of the embodiment of the present invention comprises a case (100), a dehumidification unit (200), a fan assembly (300), and an electrical unit (600), wherein, in particular, the electrical unit (600) is configured to dissipate heat through a heat dissipation guide (700).
[0061] The dehumidifier of the embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail by each component as follows.
[0062] First, the dehumidifier according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a case (100).
[0063] The above case (100) can be defined as a part that forms a perimeter wall among the exterior of the dehumidifier.
[0064] The above case (100) can be formed to be open vertically while providing space for various parts or devices to be installed inside.
[0065] The above case (100) may be formed by combining multiple parts. For example, the above case (100) may be provided by being divided into a first perimeter case (110) and a second perimeter case (120).
[0066] The first perimeter case (110) forms the front of the dehumidifier and part of one side wall and part of another side wall, and the second perimeter case (120) forms the rear of the dehumidifier and part of one side wall and part of another side wall. For convenience of explanation, the sides are defined as the right side in the direction where the water tank (400) is located and the left side in the opposite direction of the water tank (400). When viewed with reference to FIG. 4, the side where the first perimeter case (110) is located can be defined as the front, and the side where the second perimeter case (120) is located can be defined as the rear. Although not illustrated, the case (100) may additionally be provided with a separate perimeter case that forms a side wall.
[0067] An intake port (121) may be formed in the second perimeter case (120). For example, an intake port (121) for inhaling air from outside the case (e.g., indoor air) may be formed in the upper portion of the second perimeter case (120).
[0068] The lower right side of the above case (100) may be formed to be open. For example, the lower right wall of the first perimeter case and the lower right wall of the second perimeter case are formed to be open. A water container (400) may be detachably installed within this open area. The water container (400) stores moisture separated from the air.
[0069] Next, the dehumidifier according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a base frame (130).
[0070] The above base frame (130) can be defined as a part that forms the bottom of the exterior of the dehumidifier.
[0071] The base frame (130) is formed to block the open bottom surface of the case (100).
[0072] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a plurality of rolling members (131) for moving the dehumidifier may be provided on the bottom surface of the base frame (130).
[0073] The above cloud member (131) can be provided as a caster.
[0074] Next, in an embodiment of the present invention, the dehumidifier includes an upper cover (140).
[0075] The upper cover (140) can be defined as a portion forming the upper surface of the exterior of the dehumidifier.
[0076] The upper cover (140) is formed to block the open upper surface of the case (100).
[0077] A discharge port (141) may be formed in the upper cover (140). The discharge port (141) may be formed on any side of the upper cover (140). For example, the discharge port (141) may be formed on the right side of the upper cover (140) when viewed from a planar view.
[0078] The above discharge port (141) can be selectively opened and closed by an opening / closing door (142). The opening / closing door (142) can be opened and closed manually or automatically.
[0079] Although not shown, the first perimeter case (110) and the second perimeter case (120) may be formed integrally with each other, or either one of the perimeter cases (110, 120) and the base frame (130) or either one of the perimeter cases (110, 120) and the upper cover (140) may be formed integrally with each other.
[0080] Next, the dehumidifier according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a partition frame (500).
[0081] The above partition frame (500) can be defined as the internal body of the dehumidifier. That is, the space within the case (100) can be divided into a plurality of spaces by the above partition frame (500).
[0082] The above partition frame (500) can divide the space within the case (100) vertically. To this end, the above partition frame (500) can be formed to block the space between the upper space and the lower space within the case (100). Thus, the space within the case (100) can be divided into an upper space and a lower space by the above partition frame (500).
[0083] FIGS. 7 to 10 illustrate the relationship between the partition frame (500) and the base frame (130).
[0084] As illustrated in these drawings, the partition frame (500) may each have a first vertical partition (510) and a second vertical partition (520) formed therein to separate and provide a first space (101), a second space (102), and a third space (103) in the lower space within the case (100).
[0085] The first vertical partition (510) may be formed to protrude downward from one side of the bottom surface of the partition frame (500) to divide the lower space within the case (100) into a first space (101) and a second space (102).
[0086] The second vertical partition (520) may be formed to protrude downward from the other side of the bottom surface of the partition frame (500) to divide the lower space within the case (100) into a second space (102) and a third space (103).
[0087] Based on FIG. 5, the first space (101) can be defined as a space provided between the partition frame (500) and one side perimeter (e.g., left perimeter) within the case (100), and the front section (600) can be located within this first space (101).
[0088] The second space (102) may be defined as a space provided between the partition frame (500) and the other side perimeter (e.g., right perimeter) within the case (100), and a water container (400) may be located within this second space (102).
[0089] The third space (103) can be defined as a space provided between the first space (101) and the second space (102), and a compressor (230) can be located within this third space (103).
[0090] A dehumidification unit (200) and a fan assembly (300), which will be described later, may be installed on the upper surface of the above partition frame (500). In consideration of this, the above partition frame (500) also functions as a condensate receiver to receive condensate falling from the dehumidification unit (200).
[0091] A drain hole (501) (see FIG. 14) for dropping the condensate into a water tank (400) in the second space (102) may be formed on the upper surface of the partition frame (500). At the same time, the upper surface of the partition frame (500) may be formed at an angle toward the drain hole (501) (see FIG. 10). Thus, the condensate flowing down the upper surface of the partition frame (500) is guided to the drain hole (501) and can then fall into the water tank through the drain hole (501).
[0092] The bottom surface of the above-mentioned partition frame (500) may be formed to slope upward toward the perimeter. Specifically, the portion of the bottom surface of the above-mentioned partition frame (500) that forms the upper surface of the first space (101) (part "C" in the drawing) may be formed to slope upward toward the perimeter. Preferably, the bottom surface of the above-mentioned partition frame (500) may be formed to slope upward toward the perimeter based on the drain hole (501). Thus, air flowing upward from the first space (101) can flow toward the perimeter along the slope of the bottom surface of the above-mentioned partition frame (500).
[0093] Meanwhile, a guide guide (530) may be formed on a portion of the perimeter of the partition frame (500) located in the first space (101), through which air rising from the first space (101) passes and is guided to the upper space of the partition frame (500) (the upper space within the case). That is, the guide guide (530) is formed to guide the air flow from the uppermost portion of the bottom surface of the partition frame (500). Preferably, the partition frame (500) may be formed to slope upward toward the portion where the guide guide (530) is formed. Due to this structure, the air rising from the first space (101) flows along the bottom surface of the partition frame (500), flows into the guide guide (530), and then flows into the upper space within the case (100) under the guidance of the guide guide (530).
[0094] As illustrated in FIG. 13, the guide (530) may be formed at the corner portion of the upper surface of the first space (101). Thus, air rising from the bottom of the first space (101) can flow along the inclined bottom surface of the partition frame (500), flow into the guide (530), and then flow into the upper space within the case (100).
[0095] Although not shown, the guide (530) may be formed as an opening. However, if the guide (530) is formed as a simple opening, condensate falling onto the upper surface of the partition frame (500) may flow down through the opening. Considering this, the guide (530) is formed so that its upper end protrudes further from the upper surface of the partition frame (500) to prevent condensate present on the upper surface of the partition frame (500) from falling downward through the guide (530).
[0096] Next, the dehumidifier according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a dehumidification unit (200).
[0097] The above dehumidification unit (200) can be defined as a device, apparatus, or structure for removing moisture from the air.
[0098] For example, the dehumidification unit (200) may be configured to separate moisture contained in the air through heat exchange with the air using a temperature difference. To this end, the dehumidification unit (200) may include a heat exchanger (210, 220).
[0099] The above heat exchanger (210, 220) may be located in the rear space (the space adjacent to the second circumferential case) of the upper space within the case (100).
[0100] The above heat exchanger (210, 220) may include an evaporator (210) for separating moisture from the air using a temperature difference with the air.
[0101] The air passing through the above evaporator (210) has a low temperature because it exchanges heat with the low-temperature refrigerant of the evaporator (210), and if this low-temperature air is supplied directly into the room, it may cause dissatisfaction among the user. Considering this, the heat exchanger (210, 220) may include a condenser (220) to raise the temperature of the air.
[0102] The condenser (220) may be located on the air outlet side of the evaporator (210). In particular, the evaporator (210) and the condenser (210) are positioned to overlap in the direction of air flow and are provided in the area where the intake port (121) of the second perimeter case (120) is formed within the case (100). For example, the evaporator (210) and the condenser (220) may be provided in the upper right space within the case (100). The evaporator (210) is positioned closer to the intake port (121) than the condenser (220). Due to this arrangement of the evaporator (210) and the condenser (220), air introduced from the intake port (121) can be recirculated into the room with its temperature raised after moisture has been removed.
[0103] That is, the air sucked in through the intake port (121) undergoes heat exchange while passing through a low-temperature evaporator (210), and moisture is separated through this heat exchange with the low temperature. The air passing through the evaporator (210) undergoes heat exchange while passing through a high-temperature condenser (220), and is heated to an appropriate temperature through this heat exchange with the high temperature and discharged into the room. Therefore, high-temperature dry air can be supplied into the room.
[0104] Moisture separated from the air while passing through the evaporator (210) flows down along the surface of the evaporator (210), collects in the partition frame (101) located below the evaporator (210), passes through the drain hole, and is supplied to the water tank (400) below it.
[0105] Meanwhile, the dehumidification unit (200) further includes a compressor (230) and an expander (240) to form a refrigeration cycle together with the aforementioned heat exchangers (210, 220).
[0106] The compressor (230) may be provided in the second space of the lower space within the case (100). By placing the compressor (230), which is relatively heavier than other components, in the central lower part, the case (100) can be prevented from tipping over.
[0107] Next, the dehumidifier according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a fan assembly (300).
[0108] The above fan assembly (300) can be defined as an assembly having a blower fan (310) to generate airflow.
[0109] This fan assembly (300) can be provided in the upper space within the case (100).
[0110] Specifically, as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 6, the fan assembly (300) may be positioned at the air outlet side of the heat exchanger (particularly, the condenser) (210, 220). Thus, air passing through the intake port (121) and sequentially through the evaporator (210) and the condenser (220) can be introduced into the fan assembly (300).
[0111] As shown in FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 5, the fan assembly (300) includes a blower fan (310) and a fan housing (320).
[0112] The fan housing (320) may be formed in a rounded shape based on the rotational center of the blower fan (310), and a discharge duct (323) is formed on one perimeter portion that extends upward and guides the discharge flow of air. The end of the discharge duct (323) is open and provided as an air outlet.
[0113] As shown in FIG. 6, the air outlet of the discharge duct (323) can be formed to coincide with the discharge port (141) of the upper cover (140) forming the case (100). That is, the discharge duct (323) can be formed to coincide with the discharge port (141) while extending upward from the upper portion of the perimeter wall of the fan housing (320). Thus, the air flowing along the discharge duct (323) passes sequentially through the air outlet and the discharge port (141) of the upper cover (140) and is discharged into the room.
[0114] As shown in FIG. 4, a fan motor (324) is installed on the outer surface of the fan housing (320), and a blower fan (310) is positioned inside the fan housing (320) and is axially coupled to the fan motor (324). The fan motor (324) can be installed on the outer surface of the fan housing (320).
[0115] The above blower fan (310) may be formed as a centrifugal fan (e.g., a Sirocco fan) with one side (the side facing the heat exchanger) open and a plurality of vanes formed along the circumference. Thus, air is sucked in from the air inlet of the fan housing (320) by the rotation of the blower fan (310), and the air sucked in is introduced into the blower fan (310), discharged in a radial direction, flows along the circumference wall of the fan housing (320), passes through the discharge duct (323), and is discharged to the discharge port (141).
[0116] Next, the dehumidifier according to the embodiment of the present invention includes an electrical unit (600).
[0117] The above electrical unit (600) is a part or device formed by assembling a plurality of circuit components for controlling the operation of each device.
[0118] This front section (600) may be located in the lower space within the case (100). Specifically, the front section (600) may be located in the first space (101) within the case (100). The front section (600) may be fixed to the wall surface of the first vertical partition (510) within the first space (101).
[0119] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and FIGS. 15, the electrical unit (600) may be composed of a main PCB (610) having a plurality of circuit components (601) and a cabinet (620) for protecting the main PCB (610) from the external environment.
[0120] The cabinet (620) may be formed of a metal material or a flame-retardant material to prevent the risk of fire caused by heat generation or ignition of the circuit component (601).
[0121] The cabinet (620) may be configured to include two covers (621, 622) that are separable from each other. That is, the cabinet (620) may include a first cover (621) forming a rear surface (a wall surface adjacent to the first vertical partition) and a second cover (622) forming a front surface (a wall surface adjacent to the case). This allows the two covers (621, 622) to be separated as needed, thereby enabling maintenance of the main PCB (610) located inside the cabinet (620).
[0122] Next, the dehumidifier according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a heat dissipation guide (700).
[0123] The above heat dissipation guide (700) can be defined as a part or configuration that guides air flow to dissipate heat from the electrical unit (600).
[0124] The heat dissipation guide (700) may be configured to dissipate heat from the electrical unit (600) by utilizing the air flow generated within the case (100) by the operation of the fan assembly (300) without forcibly generating air flow. That is, the heat dissipation guide (700) allows the indoor air sucked in by the air suction force from the operation of the fan assembly (300) to pass through the electrical unit (600), thereby enabling the electrical unit (600) to naturally dissipate heat.
[0125] The above heat dissipation guide (700) may be formed to allow indoor air to flow into the first space (101) where the above electrical unit (600) is located. To this end, the above heat dissipation guide (700) may be formed in any one of the parts forming the first space (101) (partition frame, first vertical partition, perimeter case, and base frame).
[0126] In an embodiment of the present invention, the heat dissipation guide (700) is formed in the portion of the base frame (130) where the first space (101) is located. That is, considering that the air suction force into the first space (101) is achieved through the guide (530) of the partition frame (500) forming the upper surface of the first space (101), indoor air is introduced from the bottom surface within the first space (101) so that the air can sufficiently pass through the first space (101) as much as possible.
[0127] In particular, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the heat dissipation guide (700) may be provided in a portion of the base frame (130) facing the bottom surface of the electrical unit (600). Due to this structure, air flowing into the first space (101) from the room strikes the bottom surface of the electrical unit (600) and then flows along the surface of the electrical unit (600) to flow upward into the first space (101). That is, due to the location where the heat dissipation guide (700) is provided, the air flowing into the first space (101) can sufficiently dissipate heat from the surface of the electrical unit (600).
[0128] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 9, the heat dissipation guide (700) may be formed as a tubular body having an opening of a certain size.
[0129] Although not illustrated, the heat dissipation guide (700) may be formed as a simple opening. However, in this case, moisture present on the upper surface of the base frame (130) may pass through the heat dissipation guide (700) and be discharged into the room, which may cause user dissatisfaction.
[0130] Considering this, the heat dissipation guide (700) is formed as a tubular body with an open interior that protrudes upward from the base frame (130). That is, since the heat dissipation guide (700) protrudes from the upper surface of the base frame (130), even if condensation accumulates on the upper surface of the base frame (130), leakage to the indoor floor through the heat dissipation guide (700) can be prevented.
[0131] Furthermore, since the heat dissipation guide (700) is formed as a tubular body, indoor air can be discharged in the direction toward which the heat dissipation guide (700) faces while passing through the heat dissipation guide (700) with a directional orientation.
[0132] The opening of the heat dissipation guide (700) may be formed to open toward a portion of the bottom surface of the electrical unit (600). This allows indoor air flowing in through the heat dissipation guide (700) to be directly supplied to the electrical unit (600).
[0133] The opening of the heat dissipation guide (700) may be formed as an elongated hole. That is, the heat dissipation guide (700) may be formed as an elongated hole with a long structure along the length direction of the bottom surface of the electrical section (600). For example, the heat dissipation guide (700) may be formed to have an opening of an elongated hole along the length direction of the bottom surface of the electrical section (600) that is longer than the width of the bottom surface of the electrical section (600) and shorter than the length of the bottom surface of the electrical section (600). This allows the electrical section (600) to dissipate heat while ensuring sufficient airflow velocity and discharging indoor air toward the widest possible area of the bottom surface of the electrical section (600).
[0134] Meanwhile, it is preferable that the heat dissipation guide (700) be positioned so as not to face the guide (530) vertically. That is, in order for the indoor air flowing into the first space (101) through the heat dissipation guide (700) to pass through as much of the first space (101) as possible, it is most desirable that they not face each other.
[0135] Thus, it is preferable that the guide (530) be formed to be located on the upper side of one side relative to the electrical section (600), and the heat dissipation guide (700) be formed to be located on the lower side of the other side relative to the electrical section (600). Of course, in the case of the heat dissipation guide (700), considering the structure of the base frame (130), it may be formed to be located on the lower side of the center of the electrical section (600) as illustrated in the embodiment.
[0136] In the following, the heat dissipation process for the electrical unit (600) of the dehumidifier according to the aforementioned embodiment of the present invention is described in detail.
[0137] First, when the dehumidifier is not operating, the fan assembly (300) is not driven. As a result, air suction power is not provided to the upper space (upper space of the partition frame) as well as the lower space (lower space of the partition frame, the first space, the second space, and the third space) within the case (100), so indoor air is not sucked in. Of course, since the dehumidifier is not operating, heat generation in the electrical unit (600) does not occur.
[0138] And, when the dehumidifier is operated in the initial state described above, the compressor (230) of the dehumidification unit (200) is operated.
[0139] Due to the operation of the compressor (230), the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is repeatedly compressed, condensed, expanded, and evaporated in sequence. As a result, cold refrigerant passes through the evaporator (210) forming the dehumidification unit (200), and hot refrigerant passes through the condenser (220), thereby exchanging heat with the air passing through the evaporator (210) and the condenser (220).
[0140] In addition, when the compressor (230) is operated, the fan assembly (300) is also operated.
[0141] By the operation of this fan assembly (30), low pressure is generated between the opening (bellmouth) of the fan housing (320) and the heat exchanger (210, 220), and air suction force is generated, and indoor air is sucked in through the intake port (121) of the second perimeter case (120) by the air suction force.
[0142] Subsequently, the air inhaled from the room has moisture separated as it passes through the evaporator (210) of the heat exchangers (210, 220), and its temperature rises as it passes through the condenser (220).
[0143] Subsequently, air passing through the heat exchangers (210, 220) flows into the fan housing (320) through the opening of the fan housing (320), then flows along the discharge duct (323) of the fan housing (320) and passes through the discharge port of the upper cover (140) to be supplied into the room.
[0144] Therefore, dehumidification of the indoor air can be achieved through the repetition of the aforementioned process.
[0145] Meanwhile, during the dehumidification operation of the indoor air of the dehumidifier as described above, the first space (101) among the lower spaces within the case (100) receives air suction force generated in the upper space within the case (100), where the heat exchanger (210, 220) is located, through the opening of the guide (530).
[0146] That is, a portion of the air suction force generated by the operation of the fan assembly (300) is provided to the first space (101) through the guide (530), and an air flow is formed in which air within the first space (101) flows to the fan assembly (300) through the guide (530).
[0147] In this case, a negative pressure is generated inside the first space (101) such that air is discharged through the guide (530), and indoor air is drawn in through the heat dissipation guide (700) formed on the base frame (130) of the first space (101) by the negative pressure.
[0148] And, the indoor air sucked into the first space (101) passes through the heat dissipation guide (700) and is guided by the flow and discharged toward the bottom surface of the electrical unit (600).
[0149] The air continues to flow along the surface of the second cover (622) forming the electric section (600) while moving upward by the air suction force provided at the upper corner of the first space (101).
[0150] Thus, the above-mentioned electrical unit (600) is heat-dissipated by air flowing over the surface of the second cover (622), and an excessive temperature rise of the circuit component (601) inside the cabinet (620) can be prevented.
[0151] Then, the air that has been heated while passing through the above-mentioned electrical unit (600) flows through the guide guide (530) and passes through the guide guide (530) to be supplied to the upper space inside the case (100). Thus, the air that has been heated by the above-mentioned electrical unit (600) is supplied to the fan assembly (300) located in the upper space inside the case (100) and is then discharged into the room through the discharge port (141) of the upper cover (140).
[0152] Thus, the dehumidifier of the present invention can dissipate heat from the electrical unit (600) even without a separate heat dissipation fan being provided, by forming a heat dissipation guide (700) on the base frame (130).
[0153] In addition, since the dehumidifier of the present invention is not provided with a separate heat dissipation fan, the volume of the electrical unit (600) can be minimized.
[0154] In addition, the dehumidifier of the present invention can improve the heat dissipation performance of the electric unit (600) by positioning the opening through which air enters and the opening through which air exits as far apart as possible from the first space (101) where the electric unit (600) is located, and positioning the electric unit (600) between them.
[0155] Meanwhile, FIG. 18 is the temperature distribution of the electrical unit when the heat dissipation guide is not provided, and FIG. 19 is the temperature distribution of the electrical unit when the heat dissipation guide according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided.
[0156] According to this, it can be seen that when a heat dissipation guide (700) is provided, there is a temperature reduction effect of approximately 20 to 30 percent.
[0157] Meanwhile, the dehumidifier of the present invention can be implemented in various forms different from the aforementioned embodiments. These are explained for each embodiment as follows.
[0158] As an example according to another embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in FIGS. 2, 3, 7, and 8, the electrical unit (600) is provided with a heat dissipation fin (630) for dissipating heat from a main PCB (610) provided within a cabinet (620), and the heat dissipation fin (630) may be formed to be exposed to the outside of the second cover (622) of the cabinet (6200). At this time, the heat dissipation fin (630) may be formed by a plurality of thin plates spaced apart from each other.
[0159] That is, an exposed hole (622a) is formed in the second cover (622) of the cabinet (620), and the heat dissipation fin (630) is exposed to the outside of the second cover (622) through the exposed hole (622a). As a result, the air flowing over the surface of the cabinet (620) exchanges heat with the heat dissipation fin (630), thereby preventing an excessive temperature rise of the various circuit components (601) of the main PCB (610).
[0160] Meanwhile, the heat dissipation fins (630) provided to the above-mentioned electrical unit (600) can be formed in a shape that improves heat exchange performance.
[0161] For example, as shown in FIG. 17, each thin plate of the heat dissipation fin (630) may be formed to have different lengths along the slope or curvature formed by the inner surface of the adjacent case (100).
[0162] Thus, the heat exchange area of the heat dissipation fin (630) can be maximized, thereby improving heat dissipation performance.
[0163] As another example according to another embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, a first opening may be formed in the cabinet (620) forming the electrical unit (600). That is, by forming a first opening in the cabinet, high-temperature heat generated from the circuit component (601) can be forcibly discharged through the first opening (623) by the air suction force of the fan assembly (300).
[0164] This first opening (623) may be formed on the upper surface of the cabinet (620). Of course, the first opening (623) may also be formed on the side of the cabinet (620).
[0165] Additionally, the cabinet (620) may have a second opening (624) that is open to allow air from the first space (101) to flow in.
[0166] The second opening (624) may be formed on the bottom surface of the cabinet (620). As a result, a portion of the air flowing through the heat dissipation guide (700) and discharged to the bottom surface of the cabinet (620) is introduced into the cabinet (620) through the second opening (624) to directly dissipate heat from the various circuit components (601) of the main PCB (610).
[0167] As another example according to another embodiment of the present invention, although not illustrated, the partition frame (500) may further have an opening formed therein to transmit air suction force generated in the upper space within the case (100) to the first space (101) in addition to the guide (530).
[0168] As such, the dehumidifier of the present invention can be implemented in various forms.
[0169] In the foregoing, although all components constituting an embodiment according to the present invention have been described as being combined or operating in combination, the present invention is not necessarily limited to such embodiments. That is, within the scope of the purpose of the present invention, all such components may be selectively combined in one or more ways to operate. Furthermore, terms such as "include," "constitute," or "have" described above, unless specifically stated otherwise, mean that the relevant component may be inherent; thus, they should be interpreted as allowing for the inclusion of additional components rather than excluding other components. All terms, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains, unless otherwise defined. Terms commonly used, such as those defined in advance, should be interpreted in accordance with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology and, unless explicitly defined in the present invention, should not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense.
[0170] The foregoing description is merely an illustrative explanation of the technical concept of the present invention, and those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will be able to make various modifications and variations within the scope of the essential characteristics of the present invention. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are intended to explain, not limit, the technical concept of the present invention, and the scope of the technical concept of the present invention is not limited by these embodiments. The scope of protection of the present invention shall be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical concepts within an equivalent scope shall be interpreted as being included within the scope of rights of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols
[0171] 100. Case 101. First Space 102. Second Space 103. The Third Space 110. First perimeter case 120. Second perimeter case 121. Intake port 130. Base Frame 131. Absence of clouds 140. Top cover 141. Discharge port 142. Openable / Closable Door 200. Dehumidification unit 210. Evaporator 220. Condenser 230. Compressor 240. Inflator 300. Fan Assembly 310. Blower fan 320. Fan Housing 323. discharge duct 400. Water bottle 500. Partition Frame 501. Drain hole 510. First vertical bulkhead 520. Second vertical bulkhead 530. Guide 600. Electrical section 610. Main PCB 601. Circuit Components 620. Cabinet 621. First cover 622. Second Cover 622a. Exposed hole 623. First opening 624. Second opening 630. Heat sink fins 700. Heat dissipation guide
Claims
Claim 1 A dehumidifier comprising: a case providing an installation space; a base frame forming a bottom portion of the case; a partition frame dividing the installation space within the case into upper and lower spaces; a dehumidification unit provided within the case and separating moisture from air; a fan assembly provided within the case and generating air flow; and an electrical unit provided within the case and having a plurality of circuit components for controlling the operation of each device; wherein the base frame further includes a heat dissipation guide that guides air to be drawn in from outside the case and discharged to the electrical unit when the fan assembly operates. Claim 2 In claim 1, a vertical partition is formed on the bottom surface of the partition frame to divide the lower space within the case into a plurality of spaces, and the electrical unit is a dehumidifier located within one of the plurality of spaces. Claim 3 In claim 2, the heat dissipation guide is a dehumidifier formed to allow air to flow into the space where the electrical unit is located. Claim 4 In claim 1, the heat dissipation guide is formed as a tubular body with an open interior that protrudes upward from the base frame. Claim 5 A dehumidifier according to claim 1, wherein the heat dissipation guide is formed to be open toward a portion of the bottom surface of the electrical unit. Claim 6 In claim 5, the heat dissipation guide is formed to have an elongated opening along the length direction of the bottom surface of the electrical section, which is shorter than the length of the bottom surface of the electrical section and longer than the width of the bottom surface of the electrical section, in a dehumidifier. Claim 7 A dehumidifier according to claim 6, wherein a first opening for air inflow into the interior of the electrical unit is formed on the bottom surface of the electrical unit. Claim 8 In claim 7, the first opening is positioned so as to be offset in the vertical direction from at least a portion of the openings of the heat dissipation guide. Claim 9 A dehumidifier according to claim 6, wherein a second opening for air outflow to the outside is formed on the upper surface of the above-mentioned electrical unit. Claim 10 A dehumidifier according to claim 9, wherein the partition frame has a through hole formed therein through which air discharged through the second opening flows into the upper space within the case. Claim 11 In claim 10, the dehumidifier wherein the through hole is positioned so as to be offset in the vertical direction from the second opening. Claim 12 A dehumidifier according to claim 1, wherein an exposed hole is formed on the outer surface of the electrical unit, and a heat dissipation fin for dissipating heat from a circuit component within the electrical unit is exposed through the exposed hole. Claim 13 A dehumidifier according to claim 11, wherein the heat dissipation fins are formed by installing a plurality of thin plates spaced apart from each other, and each thin plate is formed to have different lengths along the slope or curvature formed by the inner surface of the adjacent case. Claim 14 A dehumidifier according to claim 1, wherein a guide is formed in the partition frame through which air passing through the electrical section passes. Claim 15 In claim 14, a dehumidifier in which the opening of the guide and the heat dissipation guide are positioned offset in the vertical direction. Claim 16 A dehumidifier according to claim 14, wherein the partition frame is formed to slope upward toward the perimeter, and the guide is formed such that the upper and lower spaces are interconnected at one perimeter of the partition frame. Claim 17 In claim 14, a dehumidifier in which the upper end of the guide is formed to protrude upward from the upper surface of the partition frame. Claim 18 In claim 14, the dehumidifier wherein the partition frame is formed to slope upward toward the portion where the guide is formed.