Flow path switching apparatus

Abstract

The present invention relates to a Euro switching device. A flow path switching device according to the present invention comprises: a case including a first nozzle into which fluid flows, a second nozzle into which fluid is discharged, a plurality of inner outlet pipes through which fluid supplied from the first nozzle flows, a plurality of inner inlet pipes through which fluid supplied to the second nozzle flows, and a flow path connecting part having a space formed therein for communicating the plurality of inner outlet pipes with the first nozzle or communicating the plurality of inner inlet pipes with the second nozzle; and a valve rotatably disposed in the space of the flow path connecting part, and having a first chamber formed therein for connecting one of the pipes of the plurality of inner inlet pipes with the first nozzle and a second chamber formed therein for connecting one of the pipes of the plurality of inner outlet pipes with the second nozzle, depending on the arrangement. The device includes a motor disposed on one side of the valve to rotate the valve, wherein the first nozzle, the inner outlet pipe, and the flow path connecting part each form a flow path perpendicular to one another within, and the valve has a first chamber hole formed to connect the first chamber and the nozzle flow path formed inside the first nozzle, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path of the nozzle flow path decreases to a size corresponding to the first chamber hole as it goes from the inlet end of the first nozzle toward the flow path connecting part.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioner, and more specifically, to an air conditioner including a flow path switching device. Background Technology

[0002] An air conditioning unit is a device designed to maintain the air in a designated space in the most suitable state according to its use and purpose. The air conditioning unit includes a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator, and a refrigeration cycle that performs the compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation processes of a refrigerant is driven to cool or heat the designated space.

[0003] Recently, due to environmental regulations, the types and charge amounts of refrigerants used in air conditioning systems are being restricted. Furthermore, to ensure safety against refrigerant leaks, there is a movement to limit the installation of refrigerant lines circulating from air conditioning systems into indoor spaces.

[0004] Therefore, a technology is being proposed to control the temperature of an indoor space by adding a water-based line to reduce the amount of refrigerant used in the air conditioner and to eliminate the refrigerant line into the indoor space.

[0005] In prior art JP 5236009, an air conditioner is disclosed in which a refrigerant and water exchange heat, and the heat-exchanged water is supplied to a plurality of indoor units to control the temperature of an indoor space.

[0006] Here, a valve may be provided to send water that has been heat-exchanged with the refrigerant to each of the multiple indoor units.

[0007] JP 6192706 discloses a flow path switching device for individually supplying water that is cooled or heated and flowing through two heat exchangers to each of a plurality of indoor units.

[0008] However, in the flow switching device disclosed in the aforementioned document, water piping connected to the heat exchanger is formed in the vertical direction relative to the valve that switches the flow path. Therefore, in order to install multiple valves for connection to multiple indoor units, there is a spatial constraint that the valves must be arranged only in the direction in which they extend.

[0009] Inside the valve, the nozzle through which water supplied from the indoor unit flows and the water pipe flowing to the heat exchanger are spaced apart from each other, so the space for water movement increases, which increases the amount of water required for the water pipe, and there is a problem of flow resistance occurring because the water flow path bends sharply.

[0010] In addition, in the case of the prior art, there is a problem in that water flowing inside the case may leak between the space where the valve rotates and the valve. The problem to be solved

[0011] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a flow switching device capable of various shape transformations, so that its external shape can be modified and adjusted to fit the size or shape of the space in which it is placed.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to minimize the space in which fluid flows within the valve, thereby minimizing the amount of fluid flowing through the water pipe. That is, by minimizing the area in which fluid flows outside the heat exchanger, the invention aims to prevent heat loss or release during the movement of the fluid. Furthermore, the invention provides a flow path switching device that minimizes flow loss occurring during the process of changing the flow path in multiple directions within the valve.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a flow path switching device that minimizes water leakage into the space between the valve and the space where the valve rotates inside the case.

[0014] The problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. means of solving the problem

[0015] The fluid flow switching device of the present invention comprises: a case including a fluid flow connection part having a space formed to connect the plurality of inner inlet pipes to the first nozzle and the first nozzle, a fluid discharged from the first nozzle, a plurality of inner outlet pipes through which the fluid supplied from the first nozzle flows, a plurality of inner outlet pipes through which the fluid supplied to the second nozzle flows, and a space formed to connect the plurality of inner outlet pipes to the first nozzle or to connect the plurality of inner outlet pipes to the second nozzle; a valve rotatably disposed in the space of the fluid flow connection part, having a first chamber formed to connect one of the plurality of inner outlet pipes to the first nozzle and a second chamber formed to connect one of the plurality of inner outlet pipes to the second nozzle depending on the arrangement, and a motor disposed on one side of the valve to rotate the valve. Each of the first nozzle, the inner outlet pipe, and the flow path connection part forms a flow path perpendicular to one another within, and the valve has a first chamber hole formed to connect the first chamber and the nozzle flow path formed inside the first nozzle, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path of the nozzle flow path decreases to a size corresponding to the first chamber hole as it goes from the inlet end of the first nozzle toward the flow path connection part, so that water flowing from the first nozzle can be stably supplied into the first chamber.

[0016] The plurality of inner outlet pipes and the plurality of inner inlet pipes are arranged on the same side of the flow path connection part and spaced apart from each other in the direction in which the rotation axis of the valve is formed, so that the flow path switching device can be configured and arranged compactly.

[0017] The above nozzle passage includes a first nozzle passage that extends from the inlet end of the first nozzle and maintains the cross-sectional area of ​​the passage, and a second nozzle passage that is connected to the first nozzle passage and reduces the cross-sectional area of ​​the passage, so that water flowing through the nozzle passage can flow into the valve by passing through the first nozzle passage and the second nozzle passage.

[0018] The area of ​​the first chamber hole disposed in the area where the first nozzle is located is formed to be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first nozzle passage and larger than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge end of the second nozzle passage, thereby preventing water discharged from the first nozzle from leaking outside the valve.

[0019] The above valve comprises a first valve body forming the first chamber, a second valve body forming the first chamber, and a partition plate disposed between the first valve body and the second valve body, wherein the first valve body includes a pair of outer walls that form the first chamber and are spaced apart from each other, and a plurality of chamber holes are formed in the first valve body in the vertical direction of the first chamber.

[0020] The above pair of outer walls has surfaces facing each other formed parallel to each other, and surfaces opposite to the surfaces facing each other formed convex curved surfaces, thereby minimizing flow resistance to the water supplied from the first nozzle to the inner outlet pipe.

[0021] The above valve further includes a rotating shaft disposed on one side of the first valve body and connected to the motor, and the nozzle passage is formed such that the distance between the two ends spaced apart in a direction perpendicular to the rotating shaft decreases as it goes from the inlet end of the first nozzle toward the passage connection part, and the distance between the two ends of the nozzle passage spaced apart in a direction perpendicular to the rotating shaft at the discharge end of the nozzle passage is formed to be equal to or narrower than the distance between the pair of outer walls, thereby preventing water flowing from the first nozzle from leaking to the outside of the valve.

[0022] The above valve further includes a guide plate that is disposed between the pair of outer walls and forms an inclined surface to guide the fluid flowing from the first nozzle to the first inner outlet pipe or the second inner outlet pipe, thereby supplying the water flowing from the first nozzle to one of the plurality of inner outlet pipes.

[0023] The guide plate is positioned below the first nozzle to send the fluid supplied to the first nozzle to the first inner outlet pipe or the second inner outlet pipe according to the arrangement of the valve, thereby minimizing the flow path of the water flowing through the valve.

[0024] Each of the plurality of inner inlet pipes has a plurality of inlet holes formed therein that communicate with the second chamber, and the valve has a plurality of valve holes formed therein that communicate with the second chamber and the interior of each of the plurality of inner inlet pipes, and the size of the plurality of inlet holes is formed to be smaller than or equal to the size of the valve holes so as to prevent water flowing from the inner inlet pipes to the second chamber from leaking.

[0025] The plurality of inner inlet pipes includes a first inner inlet pipe forming a first inlet hole and a second inner inlet pipe formed by being spaced apart from the first inner inlet pipe in the direction in which the rotation axis is formed, and the plurality of valve holes include a first valve hole communicating with the first inlet hole according to the arrangement of the valve and a second valve hole communicating with the second inlet hole according to the arrangement of the valve, and the size of the first inlet hole or the second inlet hole is formed to be equal to or smaller than the size of the first valve hole or the second valve hole, thereby preventing water flowing from the inner inlet pipe to the second chamber from leaking outside the valve.

[0026] The above valve comprises a first valve body forming the first chamber, a second valve body forming the first chamber, and a partition plate disposed between the first valve body and the second valve body, wherein the second valve body has a hollow cylindrical shape, and the first valve hole and the second valve hole are arranged on the circumferential surface with a phase difference of 180 degrees from each other, so as to selectively supply water flowing from a plurality of inner inlet pipes to the second chamber.

[0027] The second nozzle extends in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the valve at the end of the flow path connection part, and the partition plate is disposed at one end of the second valve body, and a nozzle connection hole is formed at the other end to communicate the second chamber and the inside of the second nozzle.

[0028] The above valve comprises a first valve body forming the first chamber, a second valve body forming the first chamber, a partition plate disposed between the first valve body and the second valve body, and a rotating shaft disposed on one side of the first valve body and connected to the motor. The first valve body includes a pair of outer walls spaced apart from each other, wherein the surfaces facing each other are formed parallel, and the surfaces opposite to the surfaces facing each other are formed as convex curved surfaces, thereby minimizing the flow resistance of water flowing vertically. Additionally, the second valve body has a hollow cylindrical shape, and a plurality of valve holes are formed on its circumference to communicate the interior of the second chamber and each of the plurality of inner inlet pipes, thereby allowing water flowing in a vertical direction to flow.

[0029] The first valve body includes a guide plate positioned obliquely between the pair of outer walls, and the first nozzle is positioned in a direction perpendicular to a virtual line extending from the rotation axis in the area where the guide plate is positioned, thereby minimizing the flow resistance of water moving in the vertical direction. Additionally, the second nozzle is positioned in a direction parallel to the virtual line extending from the rotation axis, so that water can flow in a vertical direction through the second chamber.

[0030] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings. Effects of the invention

[0031] According to the Euro switching device of the present invention, one or more of the following effects are provided.

[0032] First, the flow path connection part connected to the indoor unit can be positioned on only one side of the plurality of inner inlet pipes and the plurality of inner outlet pipes, or on both sides, so there is an advantage in that the design can be modified to suit the size or shape of the space where the flow path switching device is installed.

[0033] Second, the structure allows the fluid flowing through the first nozzle to pass through a guide plate and be supplied to multiple inner outlet pipes, thereby minimizing the range of fluid flow within the valve. Consequently, there is also the advantage of preventing heat loss of the fluid within a range where heat exchange does not occur.

[0034] Third, by adjusting the size between the hole formed in the valve and the corresponding hole formed inside the case, there is an advantage of preventing water leakage between the space where the valve is placed inside the case and the valve.

[0035] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description in the claims. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0036] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection relationship between a relay device and a plurality of indoor units according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3a is a perspective view of a Euro switching device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 3b is a side view of Fig. 3a. Figure 4 is an exploded view of Figure 3a. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along V-V' of Figure 3a. Figure 6a is a cross-sectional view taken along VI-VI' of Figure 3b. Figure 6b is a comparison of Figure 6a. Figure 7a is a cross-sectional view taken along Ⅶ-Ⅶ' of 3b. Figure 7b is a comparison of Figure 7a. Figure 8 is comparative data on the leakage amount of the Euro switching device according to the comparison between the Euro switching device of the present invention in Figures 6a and 7a and the Euro switching device in Figures 6b and 7b. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a flow switching device according to a first embodiment in which a plurality of flow connection parts, valves, and motors are arranged. FIGS. 10a to 10c are drawings for explaining the flow of water flowing through a flow switching device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7a is a drawing for explaining the flow of water through a first inner outlet pipe and a first inner inlet pipe connected to a first heat exchanger, FIG. 7b is a drawing for explaining the flow of water through a second inner outlet pipe and a second inner inlet pipe connected to a second heat exchanger, and FIG. 7c is a drawing of the flow switching device in a closed state by a valve. FIG. 11a is a perspective view of a Euro switching device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 11b is a side view of 11a. Figure 12 is an exploded view of Figure 11a. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along XIII-XIII' of FIG. 11a. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along XIV-XIV' of FIG. 11b. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along XV-XV' of FIG. 11b. FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a Euro switching device according to the second embodiment of FIG. 11a, including an additional Euro connection part, a motor, and a valve. FIGS. 17a to 17c are drawings for explaining the flow of water according to the arrangement of valves placed on the upper side of the flow switching device of FIG. 11a, FIG. 17a is a drawing for explaining the flow of water through the first inner outlet pipe and the first inner inlet pipe connected to the first heat exchanger, FIG. 17b is a drawing for explaining the flow of water through the second inner outlet pipe and the second inner inlet pipe connected to the second heat exchanger, and FIG. 17c is a drawing of the state in which the valve closes the flow switching device. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0037] The advantages and features of the present invention and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided merely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same components.

[0038] In FIGS. 3 to 16c, the indications of Up (U), Down (D), Left (Le), Right (Ri), Front (F), and Back (R) are for the purpose of explaining the invention and do not limit the invention. In the Euro switching device described in FIGS. 3 to 12c, the first direction (FR), second direction (UD), and third direction (Ri-Le) are mutually perpendicular directions defined as references for the purpose of explaining the invention. It is understood that this may be applied differently depending on the viewing direction or reference. The terms “Upper” and “Lower” used in the description or claims are for the purpose of explaining the invention with reference to the drawings according to the embodiments and do not limit the location.

[0039] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings for explaining an air conditioner including a flow switching device according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0040] <Overall Composition>

[0041] Referring to FIG. 1, an air conditioner (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include an outdoor unit (10), a plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106) connected to the outdoor unit (10) to control the temperature of an indoor space, and a relay device (20) in which a refrigerant circulating through the outdoor unit (10) and water circulating through the plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106) undergo heat exchange.

[0042] The air conditioner (1) may include three refrigerant pipes (110, 120, 130) connecting the outdoor unit (10) and the relay device (20). That is, the outdoor unit (10) and the relay device (20) may have a "three-pipe connection structure." The refrigerant may circulate between the outdoor unit (10) and the relay device (20) through the three refrigerant pipes (110, 120, 130).

[0043] The three refrigerant pipes (110, 120, 130) may include a high-pressure pipe (110) through which high-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows, a low-pressure pipe (120) through which low-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows, and a liquid pipe (130) through which liquid refrigerant flows. The high-pressure pipe (110) may be connected to the discharge side of a compressor (12) placed in an outdoor unit (10). The low-pressure pipe (120) may be connected to the suction side of the compressor (12). The liquid pipe (130) may be connected to an outdoor heat exchanger (14) placed in an outdoor unit (10).

[0044] The air conditioner (1) may include a plurality of water pipes connecting a relay device (20) and each of a plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106). Each of the plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106) is connected to a water supply pipe (150) through which water is supplied from the relay device (20) and a water discharge pipe (152) through which water is discharged to the relay device (20). The water pipes include a water supply pipe (150) and a water discharge pipe (152). The water supply pipe (150) and the water discharge pipe (152) may be provided in a number corresponding to the number of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106).

[0045] The outdoor unit (10) may include a cooling and heating simultaneous outdoor unit. The outdoor unit (10) and the relay device (20) may be flexibly connected by a first fluid. The first fluid may include a refrigerant.

[0046] The outdoor unit (10) may include a compressor (12) that compresses the refrigerant, an outdoor heat exchanger (14) disposed inside the outdoor unit and heat-exchanging the outside air and the refrigerant, and an outdoor unit fan (16) disposed on one side of the outdoor heat exchanger (14) to form an airflow to the outdoor heat exchanger (14). By driving the outdoor unit fan (16), the outside air flows to the outdoor heat exchanger (14), and heat exchange between the refrigerant and the air can be achieved.

[0047] Additionally, the outdoor unit (10) may further include an outdoor expansion valve (18) that expands the refrigerant discharged from or supplied to the outdoor heat exchanger (14).

[0048] A plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106) may include indoor units that provide both heating and cooling. Each of the plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106) and a relay device may be dynamically connected by a second fluid. The second fluid may include water.

[0049] Each of the plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106) may include an indoor heat exchanger (not shown) disposed inside the indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106) and heat-exchanging indoor air and water, and an indoor unit fan (not shown) disposed on one side of the indoor heat exchanger (not shown) and forming air flow to the indoor heat exchanger.

[0050] <Relay device>

[0051] Referring to FIG. 2, the relay device (20) includes a heat exchanger (22, 24) that exchanges heat between a refrigerant and water, a pump (26, 28) that forms a flow of water flowing through a water pipe, a plurality of refrigerant valves that are positioned in the refrigerant pipes (110, 120, 130) placed inside the relay device (20) to control the flow of the refrigerant, and a flow path switching device (30) that is positioned in the water pipes placed inside the relay device (20) to control the flow of water.

[0052] Inside the relay device (20), a refrigerant pipe (110, 120, 130) connecting the outdoor unit (10) and the heat exchanger (22, 24) and a water pipe connecting the multiple indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106) and the heat exchanger (22, 24) are arranged.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 2, the refrigerant pipes (110, 120, 130) may include a high-pressure pipe (110) through which high-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows, a low-pressure pipe (120) through which low-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows, and a liquid pipe (130) through which liquid refrigerant flows.

[0054] The high-pressure pipe (110) may include a first high-pressure guide pipe (112) connected to a first heat exchanger (22) and a second high-pressure guide pipe (114) connected to a second heat exchanger (24). The high-pressure pipe (110) may have a high-pressure branching point (116) formed that branches into the first high-pressure guide pipe (112) and the second high-pressure guide pipe (114).

[0055] The low-pressure pipe (120) may include a first low-pressure guide pipe (122) connected to a first heat exchanger (22) and a second low-pressure guide pipe (124) connected to a second heat exchanger (24). The low-pressure pipe (120) may have a low-pressure branching point (126) formed that branches into the first low-pressure guide pipe (122) and the second low-pressure guide pipe (124).

[0056] The first low-pressure guide pipe (122) and the first high-pressure guide pipe (112) can be joined to the first refrigerant pipe (128) and connected to the first heat exchanger (22), and the second low-pressure guide pipe (124) and the second high-pressure guide pipe (114) can be joined to the second refrigerant pipe (129) and connected to the second heat exchanger (24).

[0057] The liquid pipe (130) includes a first liquid guide pipe (132) connected to a first heat exchanger (22) and a second liquid guide pipe (134) connected to a second heat exchanger (24). A liquid pipe branching point (136) that branches into the first liquid guide pipe (132) and the second liquid guide pipe (134) may be formed in the liquid pipe (130).

[0058] Referring to FIG. 2, a plurality of refrigerant valves can change the direction of flow of the refrigerant by operating the valves. In addition, a plurality of refrigerant valves can control the flow rate of the refrigerant by operating the valves.

[0059] A plurality of refrigerant valves include high-pressure valves (142a, 142b) arranged in each of the first high-pressure guide pipe (112) and the second high-pressure guide pipe (114) to open and close the first high-pressure guide pipe (112) and the second high-pressure guide pipe (114), low-pressure valves (144a, 144b) arranged in each of the first low-pressure guide pipe (122) and the second low-pressure guide pipe (124) to open and close the first low-pressure guide pipe (122) and the second low-pressure guide pipe (124), and liquid pipe valves (146a, 146b) arranged in each of the first liquid guide pipe (132) and the second liquid guide pipe (134) to regulate the flow rate of refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant pipes (110, 120, 130).

[0060] Referring to FIG. 2, the water pipe may include an inlet pipe (154, 156) that guides water to flow into a heat exchanger (22, 24) and an outlet pipe (160, 162) that guides water discharged from the heat exchanger (22, 24).

[0061] The inlet pipe (154, 156) can guide water passing through the indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106) to flow into the heat exchanger (22, 24). The outlet pipe (160, 162) can guide water passing through the heat exchanger (22, 24) to flow into the indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106).

[0062] The inlet pipes (154, 156) may include a first inlet pipe (154, 156) that guides water to the first heat exchanger (22) and a second inlet pipe (154, 156) that guides water to the second heat exchanger (24). The discharge pipes (160, 162) may include a first discharge pipe (160, 162) that guides water passing through the first heat exchanger (22) to the indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106) and a second discharge pipe (160, 162) that guides water passing through the second heat exchanger (24) to the indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106).

[0063] The first inlet pipe (154, 156) may extend to the water inlet of the first heat exchanger (22). The first discharge pipe (160, 162) may extend from the water outlet of the first heat exchanger (22). Likewise, the second inlet pipe (154, 156) may extend to the water inlet of the second heat exchanger (24). The second discharge pipe (160, 162) may extend from the water outlet of the second heat exchanger (24).

[0064] Each of the inlet pipes (154, 156) and the discharge pipes (160, 162) can be extended to a flow switching device (30). Water introduced from the inlet pipes (154, 156) to the water inlet of the heat exchanger (22, 24) can flow to the water discharge pipes (160, 162) through the water outlet of the heat exchanger (22, 24) after heat exchange with the refrigerant.

[0065] The water pipe may include a plurality of indoor inlet pipes (170a, 170b, 170c, 170d) that guide water to flow into each of a plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106), and a plurality of indoor discharge pipes (172a, 172b, 172c, 172d) that guide water discharged from each of the plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106).

[0066] Each of the multiple indoor inlet pipes (170a, 170b, 170c, 170d) and multiple indoor outlet pipes (172a, 172b, 172c, 172d) is connected to a flow switching device (30).

[0067] The indoor inlet pipes (170a, 170b, 170c, 170d) may include a first indoor inlet pipe (170a) coupled to the inlet of a first indoor unit (100), a second indoor inlet pipe (170b) coupled to the inlet of a second indoor unit (102), a third indoor inlet pipe (170c) coupled to the inlet of a third indoor unit (104), and a fourth indoor inlet pipe (170d) coupled to the inlet of a fourth indoor unit (106). Each of the first indoor inlet pipe (170a), the second indoor inlet pipe (170b), the third indoor inlet pipe, and the fourth indoor inlet pipe (170d) is connected to a flow path switching device (30).

[0068] The indoor exhaust pipes (172a, 172b, 172c, 172d) may include a first indoor exhaust pipe (172a) coupled to the outlet of the first indoor unit (100), a second indoor exhaust pipe (172b) coupled to the outlet of the second indoor unit (102), a third indoor exhaust pipe (172c) coupled to the outlet of the third indoor unit (104), and a fourth indoor exhaust pipe (172d) coupled to the outlet of the fourth indoor unit (106). Each of the first indoor exhaust pipe (172a), the second indoor exhaust pipe (172b), the third indoor exhaust pipe, and the fourth indoor exhaust pipe (172d) is connected to a flow path switching device (30).

[0069] Referring to FIG. 2, the heat exchanger (22, 24) may be configured such that the refrigerant flow path and the water flow path perform heat exchange with each other. The heat exchanger (22, 24) may include a plate heat exchanger capable of performing heat exchange between water and refrigerant. The heat exchanger (22, 24) may be configured such that the flow path for the refrigerant and the flow path for the water flow are alternately stacked.

[0070] Heat exchangers (22, 24) may be provided in multiple numbers to simultaneously provide cooling and heating to each of the multiple indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106). Referring to FIG. 2, the heat exchangers (22, 24) may include a first heat exchanger (22) and a second heat exchanger (24). The first heat exchanger (22) may be structured to heat water by heat exchange with a refrigerant, and the second heat exchanger (24) may be structured to cool water by heat exchange with a refrigerant.

[0071] However, this is according to one embodiment, and the structure may be such that the first heat exchanger (22) cools the water and the second heat exchanger (24) heats the water, or the first heat exchanger (22) and the second heat exchanger (24) alternate with each other to cool or heat the water.

[0072] Water flowing through the water pipe can be selectively introduced into the first heat exchanger (22) or the second heat exchanger (24) to exchange heat with the refrigerant depending on the operating mode of the indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106).

[0073] Referring to FIG. 2, pumps (26, 28) can provide pressure to direct water in the inlet pipes (154, 156) toward the heat exchanger (22, 24). Pumps (26, 28) can be installed in the water pipes to set the flow direction of the second fluid.

[0074] The pump (26, 28) may include a first pump (26) installed in the first inlet pipe (154, 156) and a second pump (28) installed in the second inlet pipe (154, 156).

[0075] Pumps (26, 28) can force the flow of water. When the first pump (26) is driven, water passing through the first heat exchanger (22) can flow through the flow path switching device (30) to a plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106). Likewise, when the second pump (28) is driven, water passing through the second heat exchanger (24) can flow through the flow path switching device (30) to a plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106).

[0076] Euro Switching Device

[0077] Hereinafter, a Euro switching device (30) will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to FIGS. 16c.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 2, the Euro switching device (30) sends water flowing through the first heat exchanger (22) or the second heat exchanger (24) to each of the plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106), and sends water flowing through each of the plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106) to the first heat exchanger (22) or the second heat exchanger (24).

[0079] The flow switching device (30) is connected to the first heat exchanger (22) and the second heat exchanger (24) through the inlet pipes (154, 156) and the outlet pipes (160, 162). The flow switching device (30) is connected to each of the multiple indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106) through the multiple indoor inlet pipes (170a, 170b, 170c, 170d) and the multiple indoor outlet pipes (172a, 172b, 172c, 172d).

[0080] First, a Euro switching device according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 3a to 10c.

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 3a through 5, the flow switching device (30) comprises: a case (32) including a first nozzle (34) into which fluid is introduced from an indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106), a second nozzle (40) for sending fluid to the indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106), a plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) through which fluid heat-exchanged from a heat exchanger (22, 24) flows, a plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) for sending fluid supplied from the first nozzle (34) to the heat exchanger (22, 24), and a flow connection part (70) having a space (72, 74) formed therein for communicating with the first nozzle (34) or communicating with the plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) and the second nozzle (40); It includes a valve (80) that is rotatably positioned in the space (72, 74) of the Euro connection part (70), and depending on the position, connects a pipe of one of the plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) to a first nozzle (34) and a pipe of one of the plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) to a second nozzle (40); and a motor (99) positioned on one side of the valve (80) to rotate the valve (80).

[0082] Referring to FIG. 3a and FIG. 3b, the case (32) includes a plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) and a plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66). Referring to FIG. 5, each of the plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) and the plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) is arranged parallel to the rotation axis (96) on which the valve (80) rotates.

[0083] A plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) and a plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) are arranged in the same direction on one side of the flow path connection part (70) and are spaced apart from each other in the direction in which a rotation axis is formed for the valve (80) to rotate. The plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) include a first inner outlet pipe (52) connected to the first heat exchanger (22) and a second inner outlet pipe (56) connected to the second heat exchanger (24). The plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) include a first inner inlet pipe (62) connected to the first heat exchanger (22) and a second inner inlet pipe (66) connected to the second heat exchanger (24).

[0084] The space (72, 74) formed inside the Euro connection part (70) can be divided into a first space (72) that connects the first nozzle (34) and a second space (74) that connects the plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) and the second nozzle (40).

[0085] In each of the first inner outflow pipe (52) and the second inner outflow pipe (56), a first outflow hole (54) and a second outflow hole (58) are formed, communicating with the first space (72) of the flow path connection part (70). Each of the first outflow hole (54) and the second outflow hole (58) is opened in a direction perpendicular to the pipe direction of each of the first inner outflow pipe (52) and the second inner outflow pipe (56).

[0086] In each of the first inner inlet pipe (62) and the second inner inlet pipe (66), a first inlet hole (64) and a second inlet hole (68) are formed that communicate with the second space (74) of the flow path connection part (70). Each of the first inlet hole (64) and the second inlet hole (68) is opened in a direction perpendicular to the respective pipe direction of the first inner inlet pipe (62) and the second inner inlet pipe (66).

[0087] The first inner outlet pipe (52) is connected to the first heat exchanger (22) so that water heated in the first heat exchanger (22) can flow through it. The second inner outlet pipe (56) is connected to the second heat exchanger (24) so ​​that water cooled in the second heat exchanger (24) can flow through it.

[0088] The first inner outflow pipe (52) and the second inner outflow pipe (56) are arranged adjacent to each other, and the first inner inflow pipe (62) and the second inner inflow pipe (66) are arranged adjacent to each other.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 5, the first inner inlet pipe (62), the second inner outlet pipe (56), and the first inner inlet pipe (62) and the second inner inlet pipe (66) are each arranged parallel to the rotation axis (96) on which the valve (80) rotates. The first inner inlet pipe (62), the second inner outlet pipe (56), the first inner inlet pipe (62), and the second inner inlet pipe (66) are each arranged in a first direction (FR) parallel to the rotation axis (96) of the valve (80).

[0090] Referring to FIG. 5, the first inlet hole (64), the second inlet hole (68), the first outlet hole (54), and the second outlet hole (58) are each formed in the same direction. The first inlet hole (64), the second inlet hole (68), the first outlet hole (54), and the second outlet hole (58) are each opened in a second direction (UD) perpendicular to the first direction (FR).

[0091] The case (32) includes a first nozzle (34) that receives fluid discharged from an indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106) and sends it to a first inner outlet pipe (52) or a second inner outlet pipe (56), and a second nozzle (40) that sends fluid supplied from a first inner inlet pipe (62) or a second inner inlet pipe (66) to an indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106).

[0092] The first nozzle (34) is connected to the indoor discharge pipe (172a, 172b, 172c, 172d) so that water discharged from the indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106) can be supplied. The first nozzle (34) is connected to the first inner discharge pipe (52) or the second inner discharge pipe (56) so that water discharged from the indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106) is sent to the first heat exchanger (22) or the second heat exchanger (24).

[0093] Referring to FIG. 5, the first nozzle (34) is positioned opposite the first inner outlet pipe (52) and the second inner outlet pipe (56) with respect to the flow path connection part (70). The first nozzle (34) extends in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis (96) of the valve (80). The first nozzle (34) is positioned between the first inner outlet pipe (52) and the second inner outlet pipe (56) with respect to the second direction (UD) perpendicular to the rotation axis (96) of the valve (80).

[0094] In the first nozzle (34), a first nozzle hole (36) is formed that communicates with the first space (72) of the flow path connection part (70).

[0095] A first connecting member (38) connected to an indoor discharge pipe (172a, 172b, 172c, 172d) is disposed in the first nozzle (34). The first connecting member (38) is fixedly disposed on the inside of the first nozzle (34) and the indoor discharge pipe (172a, 172b, 172c, 172d), and can be sealed to each of the indoor discharge pipe (172a, 172b, 172c, 172d) and the first nozzle (34) by a sealer (46).

[0096] Referring to FIG. 6a, the first nozzle (34) has a nozzle passage (35) formed therein through which water flows. The nozzle passage (35) is formed such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the passage decreases at the portion connected to the passage connection part (70). The nozzle passage (35) may include a first nozzle passage (351) that extends from the inlet end (341) of the first nozzle (34) and maintains the cross-sectional area of ​​the passage, and a second nozzle passage (352) that is connected to the first nozzle passage (351) and has a reduced cross-sectional area of ​​the passage. The cross-sectional area of ​​the second nozzle passage (352) is formed to decrease as it moves further away from the first nozzle passage (351). The cross-sectional area of ​​the passage into the nozzle passage (35) has a first cross-sectional area at the inlet end of the first nozzle (34) and a second cross-sectional area at the portion connected to the first chamber hole. The second cross-sectional area is formed to be smaller than the first cross-sectional area. The nozzle flow path is formed such that the distance between the two ends, which are spaced apart in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis on which the valve rotates, decreases as it progresses from the first cross-sectional area to the second cross-sectional area.

[0097] The first nozzle (34) is formed such that the end connected to the flow path connection part (70) contacts one end of a pair of outer walls (83a, 83b) of the first valve body (83) described below.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 5, when viewed from a direction parallel to the rotation axis (96), the distance between both ends of the first nozzle passage (351) and the second nozzle passage (352) can be formed equally. However, referring to FIG. 6a, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis (96), the second nozzle passage (352) can have a shape in which the distance between both ends decreases as it is positioned closer to the passage connection part (70).

[0099] The second nozzle (40) can send water supplied to the first inner inlet pipe (62) or the second inner inlet pipe (66) to the indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106). The second nozzle (40) is connected to the indoor inlet pipe (170a, 170b, 170c, 170d) and sends water supplied from the first heat exchanger (22) or the second heat exchanger (24) to the indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106).

[0100] Referring to FIG. 5, the second nozzle (40) is positioned at the end of the flow path connection part (70). The second nozzle (40) extends in a direction parallel to the rotation axis (96) of the valve (80). The second nozzle (40) is positioned in the opposite direction of the motor (99). The second nozzle (40) extends in the opposite direction of the motor (99) from the first direction (FR).

[0101] In the second nozzle (40), a second nozzle hole (42) is formed that communicates with the second space (74) of the Euro connection part (70).

[0102] A second connecting member (44) connected to an indoor inlet pipe (170a, 170b, 170c, 170d) is disposed in the second nozzle (40). The second connecting member (44) is fixedly disposed on the inside of the second nozzle (40) and the indoor inlet pipe (170a, 170b, 170c, 170d), and can be sealed to each of the indoor inlet pipe (170a, 170b, 170c, 170d) and the second nozzle (40) by a sealer (46).

[0103] Referring to FIG. 5, the flow path connecting part (70) forms a first space (72) connecting the first nozzle (34) and the first inner outlet pipe (52) or the second inner outlet pipe (56). The flow path connecting part (70) forms a second space (74) connecting the second nozzle (40) and the first inner inlet pipe (62) or the second inner inlet pipe (66).

[0104] The first space (72) and the second space (74) formed inside the Euro connection part (70) are arranged in a direction parallel to the rotation axis (96) of the valve (80) and have a structure that communicates with each other. The first space (72) can be communicated with the first inner outflow pipe (52) and the second inner outflow pipe (56), respectively, through the first outflow hole (54) and the second outflow hole (58). The second space (74) can be communicated with the first inner inflow pipe (62) and the second inner inflow pipe (66), respectively, through the first inflow hole (64) and the second inflow hole (68).

[0105] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the valve (80) comprises a valve body (82) that forms an outer shape and forms a first chamber (84) connecting one of the plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) and a first nozzle (34) on the inside, and a second chamber (86) connecting one of the plurality of inner inlet pipes and a second nozzle (40), and a partition plate (92) disposed inside the valve body (82) and partitioning the first chamber (84) and the second chamber (86). The valve (80) comprises a guide plate (94) that forms an inclined surface to guide water flowing from the first nozzle (34) to the first inner outlet pipe (52) or the second inner outlet pipe (56).

[0106] The valve body (82) may include a first valve body (83) forming a first chamber (84), a second valve body (85) forming a second chamber (86), and a partition plate (92) disposed between the first valve body (83) and the second valve body (85).

[0107] The interior of the first valve body (83) is hollow and has a roughly cylindrical shape. At one end of the first valve body (83), an end plate (95) connected to a rotation axis (96) is disposed, and at the other end, a partition plate (92) is disposed. The first valve body (83) is disposed between the end plate (95) and the partition plate (92), and a pair of outer walls (83a, 83b) connecting the end plate (95) and the partition plate (92) are disposed.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 6a, a pair of outer walls (83a, 83b) may have a cross-section that is approximately semicircular. A first chamber (84) is formed between the pair of outer walls (83a, 83b) in the first valve body (83). A plurality of chamber holes (88a, 88b, 88c, 88d) are arranged on the upper and lower sides of the first chamber (84). A guide plate (84) is arranged between the pair of outer walls (83a, 83b). Referring to FIG. 5, the guide plate (84) is arranged at an angle below the first nozzle (34).

[0109] Referring to FIG. 6a, a pair of outer walls (83a, 83b) can be divided into a first outer wall (83a) and a second outer wall (83b). The first outer wall (83a) and the second outer wall (83b) may be arranged facing each other and have symmetrical shapes.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 6a, the first outer wall (83a) and the second outer wall (83b) are formed with surfaces facing each other parallel to one another. The first outer wall (83a) and the second outer wall (83b) form a convex curved surface on the opposite side of the surfaces facing each other.

[0111] One end or the other end of the first outer wall (83a) is positioned to be in contact with the discharge end (342) of the first nozzle (34). One end or the other end of the second outer wall (83b) is positioned to be in contact with the discharge end (342) of the first nozzle (34).

[0112] Referring to FIG. 6a, the area of ​​the chamber hole placed in the area where the first nozzle (34) is located is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first nozzle passage (351) and is formed to be larger than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge end (342) of the second nozzle passage (352).

[0113] Referring to FIG. 7a, the second valve body (85) has a hollow interior and a roughly cylindrical shape. A partition plate (92) is disposed at one end of the second valve body (85), and a nozzle connection hole (90c) is formed at the other end. The second valve body (85) forms the circumference of the second chamber (86). A first valve hole (90a) and a second valve hole (90b) are formed in the second valve body (85).

[0114] Referring to FIG. 5, the first valve hole (90a) and the second valve hole (90b) are positioned with a phase difference of 180 degrees from each other at positions corresponding to the first inner inlet pipe (62) and the second inner inlet pipe (66). Accordingly, the second chamber (86) can communicate with the first inner inlet pipe (62) or the second inner inlet pipe (66) depending on the arrangement of the valve body (82).

[0115] Referring to FIG. 7a, the size of each of the first valve hole (90a) and the second valve hole (90b) has a size corresponding to the first inlet hole (64) formed in the first inner inlet pipe (62) or the second inlet hole (68) formed in the second inner inlet pipe (66).

[0116] The size of each of the first valve hole (90a) and the second valve hole (90b) is formed to be equal to or larger than the size of the first inlet hole (64) or the second inlet hole (68).

[0117] With reference to FIGS. 6a to 8, the amount of leakage according to the flow switching device of the present invention and the flow switching device according to the comparative example will be explained.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 6a, the nozzle flow path (35) of the flow path switching device of the present invention is formed such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path is reduced at the portion connected to the flow path connecting part (70). The first nozzle (34) is formed such that the end connected to the flow path connecting part (70) contacts one end of a pair of outer walls (83a, 83b) of the first valve body (83). That is, the area of ​​the chamber hole disposed in the region where the first nozzle (34) is located is formed to be greater than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge end (342) of the nozzle flow path (35). Accordingly, water flowing along the first nozzle (34) can flow into the first chamber (84) without being obstructed by the first valve body (83).

[0119] On the other hand, referring to FIG. 6b, the nozzle flow path (35') of the Euro switching device according to the comparative example is formed such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path is uniformly the same overall. Accordingly, the area of ​​the chamber hole placed in the region where the first nozzle (34') is located is formed to be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge end (342') of the nozzle flow path (35'). With this structure, water flowing from the first nozzle (34') may be obstructed by the first valve body (83'). Additionally, water flowing from the first nozzle (34') may leak into the space between the first valve body (83') and the flow path connection part (70').

[0120] Referring to FIG. 7a, the size of the second valve hole (90b) corresponds to the size of the second inlet hole (68) formed in the second inner inlet pipe (66). Although not shown in the drawing, the size of the first valve hole (90a) may also correspond to the size of the first inlet hole (64) formed in the first inner inlet pipe (62).

[0121] That is, the size of each of the first inlet hole (64) and the second inlet hole (68) is formed to be equal to or smaller than the size of the first valve hole (90a) or the second valve hole (90b).

[0122] Accordingly, water flowing from any one of the multiple inner inlet pipes (62, 66) can naturally flow into the second chamber (86). That is, referring to FIG. 7a, water flowing from the second inner inlet pipe (66) into the second chamber (86) can flow without being obstructed by the second valve body (85).

[0123] On the other hand, referring to FIG. 7b, the size of the second inlet hole (68') is formed to be larger than the size of the second valve hole (90b'). That is, water flowing from the second inner inlet pipe (66') to the second chamber (86') can be obstructed by the second valve body (85'). This means that water flowing from the second inner inlet pipe (66') to the second chamber (86') can leak into the space between the second valve body (85') and the flow path connection part (70').

[0124] Accordingly, referring to FIG. 8, it can be seen that the amount of leakage is drastically reduced when the flow switching device according to the present invention is operated compared to when the flow switching device according to the comparative example is operated.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 5, a plurality of chamber holes (88a, 88b, 88c, 88d) are formed in the valve body (82) to connect the first inner outlet pipe (52) or the second inner outlet pipe (56) with the first nozzle (34). The plurality of chamber holes include a first upper hole (88a) that communicates with the first nozzle hole (36) or the first inner outlet pipe (52) depending on the arrangement, and a second upper hole (88b) that communicates with the first nozzle hole (36) or the second inner outlet pipe (56) depending on the arrangement.

[0126] A plurality of chamber holes include a first lower hole (88c) that communicates with the first inner outlet pipe (52) and does not communicate with the first nozzle hole (36) even if the arrangement is changed, and a second lower hole (88d) that communicates with the second inner outlet pipe (56) and does not communicate with the second nozzle hole (42) even if the arrangement is changed. The first upper hole (88a) and the first lower hole (88c) are arranged facing each other. The second upper hole (88b) and the second lower hole (88d) are arranged facing each other. The first upper hole (88a) and the second lower hole (88d) are arranged parallel to the rotation axis (96) of the valve (80). The second upper hole (88b) and the first lower hole (88c) are arranged parallel to the rotation axis (96) of the valve (80).

[0127] When the first upper hole (88a) is arranged to communicate with the first nozzle hole (36), water flowing through the first nozzle (34) flows into the first inner outlet pipe (52), and when the second upper hole (88b) is arranged to communicate with the first nozzle hole (36), water flowing through the second nozzle (40) flows into the second inner outlet pipe (56).

[0128] Referring to FIG. 10b, when the first upper hole (88a) is arranged to be in communication with the first inner outlet pipe (52), water is not supplied to the first inner outlet pipe (52). Likewise, referring to FIG. 10a, when the second upper hole (88b) is arranged to be in communication with the second inner outlet pipe (56), water is not supplied to the second inner outlet pipe (56).

[0129] The guide plate (94) is positioned in the first chamber (84) and can send water flowing from the first nozzle (34) to the first inner outlet pipe (52) or the second inner outlet pipe (56).

[0130] Referring to FIG. 10a or FIG. 10b, the guide plate (94) is positioned below the first nozzle (34). The guide plate (94) may be positioned at one end of the first nozzle adjacent to the first inner outlet pipe, or at the other end of the first nozzle adjacent to the second inner inlet pipe.

[0131] A first upper hole (88a) and a second lower hole (88d) may be formed in opposite directions relative to one end (94a) of the guide plate (94). A second upper hole (88b) and a first lower hole (88c) may be formed in opposite directions relative to the other end (94b) of the guide plate (94).

[0132] Referring to FIG. 5, the valve body (82) has a plurality of valve holes (90a, 90b) connected to a first inner inlet pipe (62) or a second inner inlet pipe (66) and a nozzle connection hole (90c) connected to a second nozzle (40). The plurality of valve holes (90a, 90b) include a first valve hole (90a) communicating with a first inlet hole (64) depending on the arrangement, and a second valve hole (90b) communicating with a second inlet hole (68) depending on the arrangement. The nozzle connection hole (90c) is formed to communicate with a second nozzle hole (42) and a second chamber ().

[0133] The valve (80) further includes a rotating shaft (96) that extends from the end of the valve body (82) in the direction in which the motor (99) is positioned and is connected to the motor (99) to rotate the valve body (82).

[0134] The motor (99) is positioned on one side of the valve (80), connected to the valve (80) by a rotating shaft (96), and can rotate the valve (80).

[0135] Referring to FIG. 5, the Euro switching device (30) may further include a valve fixing member (98) for fixing the arrangement of a rotating valve (80) inside the Euro connection part (70) of the case (32). The valve fixing member (98) can prevent movement of the rotating valve (80) inside the Euro connection part (70). The valve fixing member (98) may be arranged around the rotation axis (96) of the valve (80). The valve fixing member (98) may be arranged between the rotation axis (96) of the valve (80) and the case (32).

[0136] Referring to FIG. 9, the case (32) includes a plurality of flow path connection parts (70a, 70b, 70c, 70d). In each of the plurality of flow path connection parts (70a, 70b, 70c, 70d), a first nozzle (34a, 34b, 34c, 34d) through which water flowing in from an indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106) flows, and a second nozzle (40a, 40b, 40c, 40d) through which water supplied to the indoor unit (100, 102, 104, 106) flows are arranged.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 9, the Euro switching device (30) includes a plurality of valves (80a, 80b, 80c, 80d) disposed inside each of a plurality of Euro connection parts (70a, 70b, 70c, 70d), and a plurality of motors (99a, 99b, 99c, 99d) connected to each of the plurality of valves (80a, 80b, 80c, 80d).

[0138] Each of the plurality of Euro connection parts (70a, 70b, 70c, 70d) is connected to each of the plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106).

[0139] Referring to FIG. 9, a plurality of flow path connecting parts (70a, 70b, 70c, 70d) may be spaced apart in the direction in which a plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) and a plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) extend. The plurality of flow path connecting parts (70a, 70b, 70c, 70d) are spaced apart in a third direction (Ri-Le) perpendicular to a first direction (FR).

[0140] Hereinafter, a Euro switching device according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 11a to 16c.

[0141] Referring to FIGS. 11a and 11b, a plurality of flow path connecting parts (70a, 70b, 70c, 70d) may be arranged in the vertical direction of a plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) and a plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56). That is, the flow path connecting part (70) may be arranged in the vertical direction of a plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) and a plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) in a second direction (UD) perpendicular to a first direction.

[0142] Referring to FIGS. 11a through 13, the case (32) comprises a first upper nozzle (34a) into which fluid is introduced from one of a plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106), a second upper nozzle (40a) for sending fluid to one of the plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106), a first lower nozzle (34b) into which fluid is introduced from another of the plurality of indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106), a second lower nozzle (40b) for sending fluid to another of the plurality of indoor units, a plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) through which fluid supplied from the first upper nozzle (34a) or the first lower nozzle (34b) flows, and the second upper nozzle (40a) or It includes a plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) that supply fluid to a second lower nozzle (40b), a first flow path connecting part (70a) formed with an upper space that connects a plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) to a first upper nozzle or connects a plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) to the second upper nozzle, and a second flow path connecting part (70b) formed with a lower space that connects a plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) to a first lower nozzle (34b) or connects a plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) to the second lower nozzle (40b).

[0143] Referring to FIG. 13, the first Euro connection part (70a) and the second Euro connection part (70b) are arranged in the vertical direction based on the plurality of inner outflow pipes (52, 56) and the plurality of inner inflow pipes (62, 66).

[0144] A plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) and a plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) are arranged between the first flow path connection part (70a) and the second flow path connection part (70b), and are spaced apart from each other in the direction in which a first rotation axis on which the upper valve (80a) rotates or a second rotation axis on which the lower valve (80b) rotates is formed. The first upper nozzle (34a) and the first lower nozzle (34b) may have shapes protruding in different directions from the case (32). The second upper nozzle (40a) and the second lower nozzle (40b) are arranged in the upper and lower directions relative to the plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) and the plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66), and protrude in the same direction from each other.

[0145] A plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) include a first inner outlet pipe (52) connected to a first heat exchanger (22) and a second inner outlet pipe (56) connected to a second heat exchanger (24). A plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) include a first inner inlet pipe (62) connected to a first heat exchanger (22) and a second inner inlet pipe (66) connected to a second heat exchanger (24).

[0146] The upper space formed inside the first Euro connection part (70a) can be divided into a first upper space that connects a plurality of inner outflow pipes (52, 56) and a first upper nozzle, and a second upper space that connects a plurality of inner inflow pipes (62, 66) and the second upper nozzle.

[0147] The lower space formed inside the second flow path connection part (70b) can be divided into a first lower space that communicates a plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) and a first lower nozzle (34b), and a second lower space that communicates a plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) and the second lower nozzle (40b). Referring to FIG. 10, in each of the first inner outlet pipe (52) and the second inner outlet pipe (56), a first upper outlet hole (54a) and a second upper outlet hole (58a) are formed that communicate with the first upper space of the first flow path connection part (70a), and a first lower outlet hole (54b) and a second lower outlet hole (58b) are formed that communicate with the first lower space of the second flow path connection part (70b).

[0148] Referring to FIG. 13, in each of the first inner inlet pipe (62) and the second inner inlet pipe (66), a first upper inlet hole (64a) and a second upper inlet hole (68a) are formed in communication with the second upper space of the first flow path connection part (70a), and a first lower inlet hole (64b) and a second lower inlet hole (68b) are formed in communication with the second lower space of the second flow path connection part (70b).

[0149] Referring to FIG. 12, the Euro switching device (30) includes an upper valve (80a) which is rotatably disposed in the first upper space and the second upper space of the first Euro connection part (70a), and which, depending on the arrangement, connects the first upper nozzle to one of the pipes of the plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) and the second upper nozzle (40a) to one of the pipes of the plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66), and a lower valve (80b) which is rotatably disposed in the first lower space and the second lower space of the second Euro connection part (70b), and, depending on the arrangement, connects the first lower nozzle (34b) to one of the pipes of the plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) and the second lower nozzle (40b) to one of the pipes of the plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66).

[0150] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the Euro switching device (30) includes a first motor (99a) positioned on one side of the upper valve (80a) to rotate the upper valve (80a), and a second motor (99b) positioned on one side of the lower valve (80b) to rotate the lower valve (80b).

[0151] Referring to FIG. 13, the case (32) may include a plurality of first flow path connecting parts (70a) and a plurality of second flow path connecting parts (70b). The plurality of first flow path connecting parts (70a) may be spaced apart in the direction in which the plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) and the plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) extend, above the plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) and the plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66). Likewise, the plurality of second flow path connecting parts (70b) may be spaced apart in the direction in which the plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) and the plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) extend, below the plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) and the plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66).

[0152] Each of the upper valve (80a) and the lower valve (80b) has the same configuration and shape as the valve (80) according to the first embodiment described in FIGS. 3 to 5, FIGS. 6a, and FIGS. 7a.

[0153] Each of the upper valve (80a) and the lower valve (80b) may include a first valve body (83) forming a first chamber (84), a second valve body (85) forming a second chamber (86), and a partition plate (92) disposed between the first valve body (83) and the second valve body (85).

[0154] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, an end plate (95) connected to a rotation axis (96) is disposed at one end of the first valve body (83), and a partition plate (92) is disposed at the other end. The first valve body (83) is disposed between the end plate (95) and the partition plate (92), and a pair of outer walls (83a, 83b) connecting the end plate (95) and the partition plate (92) are disposed. A guide plate (84) is disposed between the pair of outer walls (83a, 83b).

[0155] Referring to FIG. 13 and FIG. 15, the second valve body (85) has a hollow interior and a roughly cylindrical shape. A partition plate (92) is disposed at one end of the second valve body (85), and a nozzle connection hole (90c) is formed at the other end. A first valve hole (90a) and a second valve hole (90b) are formed in the second valve body (85). The first valve hole (90a) and the second valve hole (90b) are arranged with a phase difference of 180 degrees from each other at positions corresponding to the first inner inlet pipe (62) and the second inner inlet pipe (66).

[0156] Referring to FIG. 14, in each of the first upper nozzle (34a) and the first lower nozzle (34b), an upper nozzle passage (35a) and a lower nozzle passage (35b) through which water flows are formed.

[0157] Each of the upper nozzle passage (35a) and the lower nozzle passage (35b) is formed such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the passage is reduced at the part connected to the first passage connection part (70a) or the second passage connection part (70b).

[0158] The upper nozzle passage (35a) may include a first upper nozzle passage (351a) that extends from the inlet end (341a) of the first upper nozzle (34a) and maintains the cross-sectional area of ​​the passage, and a second upper nozzle passage (352a) that is connected to the first upper nozzle passage (351a) and reduces the cross-sectional area of ​​the passage.

[0159] The lower nozzle passage (35b) may include a first lower nozzle passage (351b) that extends from the inlet end (341b) of the first lower nozzle (34b) and maintains the cross-sectional area of ​​the passage, and a second lower nozzle passage (352b) that is connected to the first lower nozzle passage (351b) and reduces the cross-sectional area of ​​the passage.

[0160] The area of ​​the chamber hole positioned in the region where the first upper nozzle (34a) is located is formed to be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first upper nozzle passage (351a) and larger than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge end (342a) of the second upper nozzle passage (352a). Likewise, the area of ​​the chamber hole positioned in the region where the first lower nozzle (34b) is located is formed to be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first lower nozzle passage (351b) and larger than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge end (342b) of the second lower nozzle passage (352b).

[0161] Referring to FIG. 15, the size of the first valve hole (90a) and the second valve hole (90b) formed in the upper valve (80a) corresponds to the size of the second inlet hole (68) formed in the second inner inlet pipe (66). The size of the first valve hole (90a) and the second valve hole (90b) formed in the lower valve (80b) corresponds to the size of the second inlet hole (68) formed in the second inner inlet pipe (66). Referring to FIG. 16, the case (32) may include a plurality of flow path connection parts (70a, 70b, 70c, 70d). A plurality of Euro connection parts (70a, 70b, 70c, 70d) are arranged in the vertical direction of a plurality of inner outflow pipes (52, 56) and a plurality of inner inflow pipes (62, 66), and can be spaced apart in the direction in which the plurality of inner outflow pipes (52, 56) and a plurality of inner inflow pipes (62, 66) extend.

[0162] The Euro switching device of the present invention may have a plurality of Euro connection parts (70a, 70b, 70c, 70d) arranged as shown in FIG. 9 or as shown in FIG. 15. Since the shape can be varied according to the space inside the relay device, it has the advantage of high space utilization and can be applied even in narrow spaces.

[0163] Operation

[0164] Hereinafter, the fluid flow according to the operation of the Euro switching device (30) will be explained with reference to FIGS. 10a to 10c.

[0165] In the case (32), a plurality of valves are arranged, and each of the plurality of valves is connected to each of the plurality of indoor units. The plurality of indoor units can be operated for cooling or heating depending on the condition of the indoor space or the user's judgment. Accordingly, each of the plurality of valves can be operated in different directions.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 10a, the valve (80) can connect the first nozzle (34) and the first inner outlet pipe (52), and the second nozzle (40) and the first inner inlet pipe (62) to connect one indoor unit and the first heat exchanger (22). At this time, when the first heat exchanger (22) supplies water heated through a refrigerant, the heated water can be supplied to the indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106).

[0167] Referring to FIG. 10b, the valve (80) can connect the first nozzle (34) and the second inner outlet pipe (56), and the second nozzle (40) and the second inner inlet pipe (66) to connect one indoor unit and the second heat exchanger (24). At this time, when the second heat exchanger (24) supplies water cooled through a refrigerant, it can supply cooled water to the indoor units (100, 102, 104, 106).

[0168] Referring to FIG. 10c, the valve (80) can close the first nozzle (34) and the second nozzle (40). When the indoor unit is not operating separately, the valve (80) can close the inside of the flow path connection to prevent heat-exchanged water from flowing to the indoor unit that does not require heat exchange.

[0169] The arrangement of valves in FIGS. 10a to 10c above can be applied in the same way to the flow switching device of FIG. 8. In FIGS. 12a to 12c, the arrangement of the upper valve (80a) positioned above the plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) and the plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) is shown to be changed. However, this is according to an embodiment, and the lower valve (80a) positioned below the plurality of inner outlet pipes (52, 56) and the plurality of inner inlet pipes (62, 66) can also be operated individually.

[0170] Referring to FIG. 17a, the upper valve (80a) can connect the first upper nozzle (34a) and the first inner outlet pipe (52), and the second upper nozzle (40a) and the first inner inlet pipe (62) to connect one indoor unit and the first heat exchanger (22). Also, referring to FIG. 17b, the upper valve (80a) can connect the first upper nozzle (34a) and the second inner outlet pipe (56), and the second upper nozzle (40a) and the second inner inlet pipe (66) to connect one indoor unit and the second heat exchanger (24). Also, referring to FIG. 17c, the upper valve (80a) can close the first upper nozzle (34a) and the second upper nozzle (40a).

[0171] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Various modifications are possible by those skilled in the art without departing from the essence of the invention as claimed in the patent claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical spirit or perspective of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0172] 1 : Air conditioner 10 : Outdoor unit 12: Compressor 14: Outdoor heat exchanger 16 : Outdoor unit fan 18 : Outdoor expansion valve 20: Relay device 22: First heat exchanger 24: 2nd heat exchanger 26: 1st pump 28: Second pump 30: Flow switching device 32 : Case 34 : First nozzle 36 : 1st nozzle hole 40 : 2nd nozzle 42: 2nd nozzle hole 52: 1st inner outlet pipe 54: 1st Outflow Hole 56: 2nd Inner Outflow Pipe 58 : 2nd Outlet Hole 62 : 1st Inner Inlet Pipe 64: 1st inlet hole 66: 2nd inner inlet pipe 68 : Second inlet hole 70 : Euro connection part 72 : 1st space 74 : 2nd space 80 : Valve 82 : Valve body 84: 1st Chamber 86: 2nd Chamber 92 : Section board 94 : Guide board 96 : Rotating shaft 98 : Valve fixing member 99 : Motor 100, 102, 104, 106 : Indoor unit 110 : High-pressure engine 120 : Low-pressure engine 130 : Liquid pipe 150 : Water supply pipe 152 : Water drain pipe

Claims

Claim 1 A case comprising a first nozzle into which fluid flows, a second nozzle into which fluid flows, a plurality of inner outlet pipes through which fluid supplied from the first nozzle flows, a plurality of inner inlet pipes through which fluid supplied to the second nozzle flows, and a flow path connecting part having a space formed to connect the plurality of inner outlet pipes with the first nozzle or to connect the plurality of inner inlet pipes with the second nozzle; and a valve rotatably disposed in the space of the flow path connecting part, having a first chamber formed to connect one of the pipes of the plurality of inner inlet pipes with the first nozzle and a second chamber formed to connect one of the pipes of the plurality of inner outlet pipes with the second nozzle, depending on the arrangement. A flow path switching device comprising a motor disposed on one side of the valve to rotate the valve, wherein the first nozzle, the inner outlet pipe, and the flow path connecting part each form a flow path perpendicular to one another within, and the valve has a first chamber hole formed to connect the first chamber and the nozzle flow path formed inside the first nozzle, and the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the nozzle flow path has a first cross-sectional area at the inlet end of the first nozzle and a second cross-sectional area at the part connected to the first chamber hole, wherein the second cross-sectional area is formed to be smaller than the first cross-sectional area. Claim 2 A flow path switching device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of inner outlet pipes and the plurality of inner inlet pipes are arranged in the same direction on one side of the flow path connection part and are spaced apart from each other in the direction in which a rotation axis is formed for rotating the valve. Claim 3 In claim 1, the nozzle flow path comprises a first nozzle flow path extending from the inlet end of the first nozzle and maintaining the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path, and a second nozzle flow path connected to the first nozzle flow path and reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path, forming a flow path switching device. Claim 4 A flow path switching device according to claim 3, wherein the area of ​​the first chamber hole disposed in the area where the first nozzle is located is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first nozzle flow path and is formed to be larger than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge end of the second nozzle flow path. Claim 5 In claim 1, the valve comprises a first valve body forming the first chamber, a second valve body forming the first chamber, and a partition plate disposed between the first valve body and the second valve body, wherein the first valve body comprises a pair of outer walls spaced apart from each other and forming the first chamber, and the first valve body comprises a plurality of chamber holes formed in the vertical direction of the first chamber. Claim 6 In claim 5, the above pair of outer walls is a flow switching device in which the surfaces facing each other are formed parallel to each other, and the surfaces opposite to the surfaces facing each other are formed as convex curved surfaces. Claim 7 In claim 5, the valve further comprises a rotating shaft disposed on one side of the first valve body and connected to the motor, and the nozzle passage is formed such that the distance between two ends spaced apart in a direction perpendicular to the rotating shaft decreases as it goes from the first cross-sectional area to the second cross-sectional area, and the distance between the two ends of the nozzle passage spaced apart in a direction perpendicular to the rotating shaft at the discharge end of the nozzle passage is formed to be equal to or narrower than the distance between the pair of outer walls. Claim 8 In claim 5, the plurality of inner outlet pipes includes a first inner outlet pipe connected to a first heat exchanger and a second inner outlet pipe connected to a second heat exchanger, and the valve further includes a guide plate formed to form an inclined surface to guide fluid flowing from the first nozzle to the first inner outlet pipe or the second inner outlet pipe, and the flow path switching device. Claim 9 In claim 8, the guide plate is a flow path switching device positioned below the first nozzle to send the fluid supplied to the first nozzle to the first inner outlet pipe or the second inner outlet pipe according to the arrangement of the valve. Claim 10 A flow path switching device according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of inner inlet pipes has a plurality of inlet holes formed therein that communicate with the second chamber, and the valve has a plurality of valve holes formed therein that communicate with the second chamber and the interior of each of the plurality of inner inlet pipes, and the size of the plurality of inlet holes is formed to be smaller than or equal to the size of the valve holes. Claim 11 In claim 10, the valve further comprises a rotating shaft connected to the motor, and the plurality of inner inlet pipes comprises a first inner inlet pipe forming a first inlet hole and a second inner inlet pipe formed a second inlet hole spaced apart from the first inner inlet pipe in the direction in which the rotating shaft is formed, and the plurality of valve holes comprises a first valve hole communicating with the first inlet hole according to the arrangement of the valve and a second valve hole communicating with the second inlet hole according to the arrangement of the valve, and the size of the first inlet hole or the second inlet hole is formed to be equal to or smaller than the size of the first valve hole or the second valve hole. Claim 12 In claim 11, the valve comprises a first valve body forming the first chamber, a second valve body forming the first chamber, and a partition plate disposed between the first valve body and the second valve body, wherein the second valve body has a hollow cylindrical shape, and the first valve hole and the second valve hole are disposed on the circumferential surface with a phase difference of 180 degrees from each other, forming a flow path switching device. Claim 13 A flow path switching device according to claim 12, wherein the second nozzle extends in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the valve at the end of the flow path connecting portion, the partition plate is disposed at one end of the second valve body, and a nozzle connecting hole is formed at the other end to communicate the second chamber and the inside of the second nozzle. Claim 14 In claim 1, the valve comprises a first valve body forming the first chamber, a second valve body forming the first chamber, a partition plate disposed between the first valve body and the second valve body, and a rotating shaft disposed on one side of the first valve body and connected to the motor, wherein the first valve body comprises a pair of outer walls spaced apart from each other, wherein the faces facing each other are formed parallel, and the opposite faces of the faces facing each other are formed convex curved surfaces, and the second valve body has a hollow cylindrical shape, and a plurality of valve holes are formed on the circumferential surface to communicate the interior of the second chamber and each of the plurality of inner inlet pipes. Claim 15 In claim 14, the first valve body includes a guide plate positioned obliquely between the pair of outer walls, the first nozzle is positioned in a direction perpendicular to a virtual line extending from the axis of rotation in the area where the guide plate is positioned, and the second nozzle is positioned in a direction parallel to the virtual line extending from the axis of rotation, thereby forming a flow path switching device.

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