Air handling unit

Abstract

There is a risk of an air flow leaking from a gap between a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger. This air handling unit comprises a first heat exchanger (41), a second heat exchanger (42), and a blower device. The first heat exchanger (41) has a plurality of first flat tubes, a first header (21a), and a second header (21b). The plurality of first flat tubes are arranged along a first direction (D1). The second heat exchanger (42) has a plurality of second flat tubes, a third header (21c), and a fourth header (21d). The plurality of second flat tubes are arranged along the first direction (D1). The air handling unit further comprises a side panel (60). The side panel (60) is attached to an end of the first heat exchanger (41) in the first direction (D1). The side panel (60) prevents an air flow generated by the blower device from leaking from the gap between the first heat exchanger (41) and the second heat exchanger (42).

Description

Air Handling Unit

[0001] Regarding air handling units.

[0002] As shown in Patent Document 1 (U.S. Pat. No. 5,341,870), there is a technique for efficiently exchanging heat by attaching side panels to a heat exchanger to prevent the air flow passing through the heat exchanger from leaking from any location other than the heat exchange section.

[0003] When the heat exchanger includes a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger and the first heat exchanger is positioned to cover the second heat exchanger, there is a risk of air leakage from the gap between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

[0004] An air handling unit according to a first aspect includes a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, and a blower. The first heat exchanger includes a plurality of first flat tubes, a first heat transfer fin, a first header, and a second header. The plurality of first flat tubes have first and second portions separated by a first bend of less than 180 degrees. The plurality of first flat tubes are aligned along a first direction. The first heat transfer fin is provided between adjacent plurality of first flat tubes. The first header is attached to ends of the plurality of first flat tubes on the first portion side. The second header is attached to ends of the plurality of first flat tubes on the second portion side. The second heat exchanger includes a plurality of second flat tubes, a second heat transfer fin, a third header, and a fourth header. The plurality of second flat tubes have third and fourth portions separated by a second bend of less than 180 degrees. The plurality of second flat tubes are aligned along the first direction. Second heat transfer fins are provided between adjacent plurality of second flat tubes. The third header is attached to the ends of the plurality of second flat tubes on the third section side. The fourth header is attached to the ends of the plurality of second flat tubes on the fourth section side. The blower generates an air flow that passes through the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger. The first section and the second section are arranged to cover the third section and the fourth section, respectively. The air handling unit further includes a first member. The first member is attached to the end of the first heat exchanger in the first direction. The first member prevents the air flow generated by the blower from leaking through a gap between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

[0005] In the air handling unit of the first aspect, the first member prevents the air flow generated by the blower from leaking through the gap between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, thereby enabling the air handling unit to perform heat exchange efficiently.

[0006] An air handling unit according to a second aspect is the air handling unit according to the first aspect, wherein the width of the first section is smaller than the width of the first header in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first section extends when viewed from the first direction, and the width of the third section is smaller than the width of the third header in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the third section extends when viewed from the first direction.

[0007] An air handling unit according to a third aspect is the air handling unit according to the first or second aspect, wherein the first member is a flat plate, and a first recess is formed in a first surface of the first member facing the first heat exchanger, and an end of the first heat exchanger facing the first direction is inserted into the first recess.

[0008] In the air handling unit of the third aspect, the position of the first heat exchanger can be determined and the first heat exchanger can be fixed by inserting the end of the first heat exchanger in the first direction into the first recess. Also, the air handling unit can more effectively prevent the air flow generated by the blower from leaking through the gap between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

[0009] An air handling unit according to a fourth aspect is the air handling unit according to the third aspect, wherein the first member is attached to an end of the second heat exchanger in a first direction, and a second recess is formed in the first surface of the first member, and the end of the second heat exchanger in the first direction is inserted into the second recess.

[0010] In the air handling unit of the fourth aspect, the position of the second heat exchanger can be determined and the second heat exchanger can be fixed by inserting the end of the second heat exchanger in the first direction into the second recess. Also, the air handling unit can more effectively prevent the air flow generated by the blower from leaking through the gap between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

[0011] An air handling unit according to a fifth aspect is the air handling unit according to the first or second aspect, wherein the first member is a flat plate. A first convex portion is formed on a first surface of the first member facing the first heat exchanger. The first convex portion conforms to the shape of an end portion of the first heat exchanger in the first direction. The first convex portion has a second convex portion and a third convex portion. The second convex portion conforms to the shape of the end portion of the first heat exchanger facing the second heat exchanger in the first direction. The third convex portion conforms to the shape of the end portion of the first heat exchanger in the first direction on the side opposite to the second heat exchanger.

[0012] In the air handling unit of the fifth aspect, the position of the first heat exchanger can be determined and the first heat exchanger can be fixed by inserting the end of the first heat exchanger in the first direction between the second convex portion and the third convex portion. Also, the air handling unit can more effectively prevent the air flow generated by the blower from leaking through the gap between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

[0013] An air handling unit according to a sixth aspect is the air handling unit according to the fifth aspect, wherein the first member is attached to an end of the second heat exchanger in the first direction. A fourth convex portion is formed on a first surface of the first member. The fourth convex portion conforms to the shape of the end of the second heat exchanger in the first direction. The fourth convex portion has a fifth convex portion and a sixth convex portion. The fifth convex portion conforms to the shape of the end of the second heat exchanger in the first direction on the side opposite to the first heat exchanger. The sixth convex portion conforms to the shape of the end of the second heat exchanger in the first direction on the side facing the first heat exchanger.

[0014] In the air handling unit of the sixth aspect, the position of the second heat exchanger can be determined and the second heat exchanger can be fixed by inserting the end of the second heat exchanger in the first direction between the fifth convex portion and the sixth convex portion. Also, the air handling unit can more effectively prevent the air flow generated by the blower from leaking through the gap between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

[0015] An air handling unit according to a seventh aspect is the air handling unit according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, further comprising a second member. The second member is disposed in a gap between the first bent portion and the second bent portion. A third recess is formed in a first surface of the first member facing the first heat exchanger. An end of the second member facing the first direction is inserted into the third recess.

[0016] In the air handling unit of the seventh aspect, the position of the second member can be determined and the second member can be fixed by inserting the end of the second member in the first direction into the third recess. Also, the air handling unit can prevent the flow of air generated by the blower from leaking through the gap between the first bent portion and the second bent portion.

[0017] An air handling unit according to an eighth aspect is the air handling unit according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, further comprising a second member. The second member is disposed in a gap between the first bent portion and the second bent portion. A seventh convex portion is formed on a first surface of the first member facing the first heat exchanger. The seventh convex portion conforms to the shape of the end portion of the second member in the first direction.

[0018] In the air handling unit of the eighth aspect, the position of the second member can be determined and the second member can be fixed by inserting the end of the second member in the first direction into the space surrounded by the seventh convex portion. Also, the air handling unit can prevent the flow of air generated by the blower from leaking through the gap between the first bent portion and the second bent portion.

[0019] An air handling unit according to a ninth aspect is the air handling unit according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, further comprising a first drain pan. The first drain pan receives condensation water from the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger. The first drain pan is disposed on the side of the first header, the second header, the third header, and the fourth header. The first drain pan has an opening. The opening allows the flow of air generated by the blower to pass through.

[0020] An air handling unit according to a tenth aspect is any of the air handling units according to the ninth aspect, further comprising a second drain pan and a support member. The second drain pan receives condensation from the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger. The support member connects the first member and the second drain pan. The first heat exchanger is fixed to the second drain pan by the first member and the support member.

[0021] With this configuration, the air handling unit of the tenth aspect can fix the first heat exchanger to the second drain pan using the first member and the support member.

[0022] 8 is a side view of the air handling unit as viewed from a first direction. 9 is a side view of the air handling unit as viewed from a third direction. 10 is a perspective view of the heat exchanger. 11 is a side view of the heat exchanger as viewed from the first direction. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the drain pan shown in FIG. 4. 13 is a top view of the heat exchanger as viewed from a second direction. 14 is a side view of the heat exchanger as viewed from a third direction. 15 is a perspective view of the heat exchanger. 16 is a diagram showing a first surface of the side panel on the heat exchanger side. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along A-A in FIG. 16. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along B-B in FIG. 16. 18 is a perspective view of the drain pan. 19 is a top view of the drain pan. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the drain pan as viewed from the first direction. 21 is a side view of the air handling unit as viewed from the first direction. 22 is a side view of the air handling unit as viewed from the first direction. 23 is a top view of the heat exchanger as viewed from the second direction. 24 is a diagram showing a first surface of the side panel on the heat exchanger side in Modification 1D. 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along C-C in FIG. 26. 26 is a cross-sectional view taken along D-D in FIG. 26.

[0023] (1) Overall structure of the air handling unit The air handling unit 100 comprises a casing 11, a support member 12, a heat exchanger 20, a blower 30, a drain pan 24 (first drain pan), a shielding member 50 (second member), and a side panel 60 (first member).

[0024] 1 and 2, air handling unit 100 is installed upright with the longitudinal direction of casing 11 aligned vertically. The internal space of casing 11 is divided by support member 12 into heat exchange chamber 17 and air blowing chamber 18. Heat exchanger 20 is installed in heat exchange chamber 17. Air blower 30 is installed in air blowing chamber 18.

[0025] An intake port 13 is formed on the upper surface 11a of the casing 11. An exhaust port 14 is formed on the lower surface 11b of the casing 11. An intake duct 15 is connected to the intake port 13. An exhaust duct 16 is connected to the exhaust port 14. The intake port 13 is connected to the intake duct 15 and a heat exchange chamber 17. The exhaust port 14 is connected to the exhaust duct 16 and an air blowing chamber 18. The heat exchange chamber 17 is in communication with the air blowing chamber 18.

[0026] The blower 30 generates a flow of air that passes through the heat exchanger 20. The blower 30 has a centrifugal fan, such as a sirocco fan, and a motor that drives the centrifugal fan. By driving the centrifugal fan, the blower 30 generates a flow of air that flows from the suction port 13 through the heat exchange chamber 17 and the blower chamber 18 toward the outlet 14. The air flows vertically downward through the internal space of the casing 11 from the suction port 13 toward the outlet 14. As the air passes through the heat exchange chamber 17, it is heat exchanged by the heat exchanger 20. The air handling unit 100 draws air through the suction port 13 and blows out the air from the outlet 14 after having had its temperature adjusted by heat exchange in the heat exchanger 20.

[0027] (2) Detailed Configuration of Air Handling Unit (2-1) Heat Exchanger The heat exchanger 20 has a first heat exchanger 41 and a second heat exchanger 42. The first heat exchanger 41 has a plurality of first flat tubes 231, first heat transfer fins 261, a first header 21a, and a second header 21b. The second heat exchanger 42 has a plurality of second flat tubes 232, second heat transfer fins 262, a third header 21c, and a fourth header 21d. The first heat exchanger 41 and the second heat exchanger 42 constitute part of a refrigerant circuit that performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle.

[0028] (2-1-1) Multiple Flat Tubes As shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 , the multiple first flat tubes 231 and the multiple second flat tubes 232 are arranged side by side in a predetermined direction. Hereinafter, the direction in which the multiple first flat tubes 231 and the multiple second flat tubes 232 are arranged is referred to as the first direction D1. The first direction D1 is a horizontal direction. In FIGS. 3 and 5 to 6 , the multiple first flat tubes 231 and the multiple second flat tubes 232 located in the center of the first direction D1 are omitted. The direction in which air flows through the internal space of the casing 11 is referred to as the second direction D2. The second direction D2 is a vertically downward direction. The direction perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 is referred to as the third direction D3. The third direction D3 is a horizontal direction. The third direction D3 is the direction in which the drain pan 24 extends when viewed from the first direction D1. A refrigerant flows through each of the first flat tubes 231 and the second flat tubes 232, and exchanges heat with air passing through the heat exchange chamber 17. A first header 21a and a second header 21b are attached to both ends of the first flat tubes 231. A third header 21c and a fourth header 21d are attached to both ends of the second flat tubes 232.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 4 , the heat exchanger 20 has a configuration in which a first heat exchanger 41 and a second heat exchanger 42 are arranged along the second direction D2. The length of the first heat exchanger 41 along the first direction D1 is equal to the length of the second heat exchanger 42 along the first direction D1. When viewed from the second direction D2, the position of the end of the first heat exchanger 41 in the first direction D1 is equal to the position of the end of the second heat exchanger 42 in the first direction D1. When viewed from the first direction D1, the first heat exchanger 41 is located outside the second heat exchanger 42. In other words, the upper end of the first heat exchanger 41 is located higher than the upper end of the second heat exchanger 42. The first heat exchanger 41 is connected to the second heat exchanger 42 via a refrigerant pipe 25.

[0030] Each of the first flat tubes 231 has a first portion 231a and a second portion 231b, with a first bent portion 231c of less than 180 degrees between them. Each of the second flat tubes 232 has a third portion 232a and a fourth portion 232b, with a second bent portion 232c of less than 180 degrees between them. The first portion 231a and the second portion 231b are arranged to cover the third portion 232a and the fourth portion 232b, respectively. As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6 , the first portion 231a and the third portion 232a extend in a predetermined direction when viewed from the first direction D1. The second portion 231b and the fourth portion 232b extend in a predetermined direction different from the direction in which the first portion 231a and the third portion 232a extend when viewed from the first direction D1. 4, the first bent portion 231c is bent so that the angle α between the direction in which the first portion 231a extends and the direction in which the second portion 231b extends is less than 180 degrees when viewed from the first direction D1. The first bent portion 231c may be bent so that the angle α is 90 degrees or less. The second bent portion 232c is bent so that the angle β between the direction in which the third portion 232a extends and the direction in which the fourth portion 232b extends is less than 180 degrees when viewed from the first direction D1. The second bent portion 232c may be bent so that the angle β is 90 degrees or less.

[0031] A first header 21a is attached to the ends of the multiple first flat tubes 231 on the first portion 231a side. A second header 21b is attached to the ends of the multiple first flat tubes 231 on the second portion 231b side. The multiple first flat tubes 231 are arranged so that the first bent portions 231c are located higher than the first header 21a and the second header 21b. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4 , the multiple first flat tubes 231 have a V-shape rotated 180° when viewed from the first direction D1. Similarly, a third header 21c is attached to the ends of the multiple second flat tubes 232 on the third portion 232a side. A fourth header 21d is attached to the ends of the multiple second flat tubes 232 on the fourth portion 232b side. The second flat tubes 232 are arranged such that the second bent portions 232c are positioned above the third header 21c and the fourth header 21d. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 4, the second flat tubes 232 have a V-shape rotated 180° when viewed from the first direction D1.

[0032] The first portion 231a, the second portion 231b, the third portion 232a, and the fourth portion 232b are flat multi-hole pipes having a plurality of passages through which a refrigerant passes. When viewed from the first direction D1, the plurality of passages in the first portion 231a and the third portion 232a are aligned along a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the first portion 231a and the third portion 232a. When viewed from the first direction D1, the plurality of passages in the second portion 231b and the fourth portion 232b are aligned along a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the second portion 231b and the fourth portion 232b. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , the first bent portion 231c is a flat multi-hole pipe that is partially curved to connect the plurality of passages in the first portion 231a with the plurality of passages in the second portion 231b. The second bent portion 232c is a flat multi-hole pipe that is partially curved so as to connect the multiple passages of the third portion 232a with the multiple passages of the fourth portion 232b.

[0033] 4 to 6, the first portion 231a, the second portion 231b, the third portion 232a, and the fourth portion 232b are arranged so that their main surfaces are aligned with the second direction D2 and the third direction D3. The first portion 231a, the second portion 231b, the third portion 232a, and the fourth portion 232b are arranged at predetermined intervals along the first direction D1 that is perpendicular to the main surfaces.

[0034] (2-1-2) First Heat Transfer Fins and Second Heat Transfer Fins The first heat transfer fins 261 promote heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing inside the multiple first flat tubes 231 and the air flow generated by the blower 30. The second heat transfer fins 262 promote heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing inside the multiple second flat tubes 232 and the air flow generated by the blower 30. The first heat transfer fins 261 and the second heat transfer fins 262 are corrugated fins. The first heat transfer fins 261 and the second heat transfer fins 262 are made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 4 , the first heat transfer fins 261 are fixed to the first portions 231 a and the second portions 231 b between the plurality of first flat tubes 231 adjacent to each other along the first direction D1. More specifically, the first heat transfer fins 261 are provided between the first portions 231 a adjacent to each other along the first direction D1. The first heat transfer fins 261 are fixed to the first portions 231 a by fixing the peaks of the corrugations to the main surfaces of the first portions 231 a. The first heat transfer fins 261 are also provided between the second portions 231 b adjacent to each other along the first direction D1. The first heat transfer fins 261 are fixed to the second portions 231 b by fixing the peaks of the corrugations to the main surfaces of the second portions 231 b. Similarly, the second heat transfer fin 262 is fixed to the third portions 232a and the fourth portions 232b between the plurality of second flat tubes 232 adjacent to each other along the first direction D1. More specifically, the second heat transfer fin 262 is provided between the third portions 232a adjacent to each other along the first direction D1. The second heat transfer fin 262 is fixed to the third portions 232a by fixing the peaks of the corrugations to the main surfaces of the third portions 232a. The second heat transfer fin 262 is also provided between the fourth portions 232b adjacent to each other along the first direction D1. The second heat transfer fin 262 is fixed to the fourth portions 232b by fixing the peaks of the corrugations to the main surfaces of the fourth portions 232b.

[0036] (2-1-3) First Header, Second Header, Third Header, and Fourth Header The first header 21a and the second header 21b are attached to both ends of the multiple first flat tubes 231. Specifically, the first header 21a is attached to the ends of the multiple first flat tubes 231 on the first portion 231a side. The second header 21b is attached to the ends of the multiple first flat tubes 231 on the second portion 231b side. The first header 21a and the second header 21b are arranged to extend in the first direction D1. Similarly, the third header 21c and the fourth header 21d are attached to both ends of the multiple second flat tubes 232. Specifically, the third header 21c is attached to the ends of the multiple second flat tubes 232 on the third portion 232a side. The fourth header 21d is attached to the ends of the multiple second flat tubes 232 on the fourth portion 232b side.

[0037] The first header 21a, the second header 21b, the third header 21c, and the fourth header 21d are arranged to extend in the first direction D1. The first header 21a, the second header 21b, the third header 21c, and the fourth header 21d are arranged above the drain pan 24. The first header 21a, the second header 21b, the third header 21c, and the fourth header 21d are connected to an external refrigerant circuit via refrigerant piping 25.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 4 , in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first portion 231a extends as viewed from the first direction D1, the width W1 of the first portion 231a is smaller than the width W2 of the first header 21a. The same is true for the second portion 231b and the second header 21b. In a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the third portion 232a extends as viewed from the first direction D1, the width W3 of the third portion 232a is smaller than the width W4 of the third header 21c. The same is true for the fourth portion 232b and the fourth header 21d. This creates a gap between the first heat exchanger 41 and the second heat exchanger 42.

[0039] (2-2) Shielding Member As shown in Fig. 7, the shielding member 50 is a block-shaped member extending along the first direction D1. The shielding member 50 is made of, for example, resin. The shielding member 50 is disposed in the gap between the first bent portion 231c and the second bent portion 232c. The length of the shielding member 50 along the first direction D1 is equal to the lengths of the first heat exchanger 41 and the second heat exchanger 42 along the first direction D1.

[0040] (2-3) Side Panels As shown in FIG. 7 , the side panels 60 are flat plates having a generally triangular shape. The side panels 60 are made of, for example, resin. The air handling unit 100 has a pair of side panels 60. The pair of side panels 60 are attached to the ends of the first heat exchanger 41 and the second heat exchanger 42 in the first direction D1 so as to sandwich the first heat exchanger 41 and the second heat exchanger 42 along the first direction D1. The side panels 60 prevent the air flow generated by the blower device 30 from leaking through a gap between the first heat exchanger 41 and the second heat exchanger 42.

[0041] As shown in Fig. 9 , a first recess 91, a second recess 92, and a third recess 93 are formed in the first surface 61 of the side panel 60 on the side of the first heat exchanger 41 and the second heat exchanger 42. As shown in Figs. 10 and 11 , the end of the first heat exchanger 41 in the first direction D1 is inserted into the first recess 91. The end of the second heat exchanger 42 in the first direction D1 is inserted into the second recess 92. The end of the shielding member 50 in the first direction D1 is inserted into the third recess 93.

[0042] (2-4) Drain Pan The drain pan 24 is disposed on the side of the first header 21a, the second header 21b, the third header 21c, and the fourth header 21d. Specifically, the drain pan 24 is disposed below the first header 21a, the second header 21b, the third header 21c, and the fourth header 21d. The drain pan 24 receives condensation water from the first heat exchanger 41 and the second heat exchanger 42. Specifically, the drain pan 24 receives condensation water from the plurality of first flat tubes 231, the plurality of second flat tubes 232, the first header 21a, the second header 21b, the third header 21c, and the fourth header 21d. Condensed water is water that forms on the surfaces of the first flat tubes 231, the second flat tubes 232, the first header 21 a, the second header 21 b, the third header 21 c, and the fourth header 21 d due to heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing inside the first flat tubes 231 and the second flat tubes 232 and the air passing through the heat exchange chamber 17. The formed condensed water flows down due to its own weight along the surfaces of the first flat tubes 231, the second flat tubes 232, the first header 21 a, the second header 21 b, the third header 21 c, and the fourth header 21 d and is collected in the drain pan 24. The drain pan 24 is fixed to the support member 12.

[0043] 11 to 13, the drain pan 24 has a first wall 24a, a second wall 24b, a receiving portion 24c, and a drain outlet 24d. When viewed from the second direction D2, the drain pan 24 has a substantially rectangular shape.

[0044] The first wall 24a surrounds an opening 24f through which air flowing through the heat exchange chamber 17 in the second direction D2 passes. In other words, the drain pan 24 has an opening 24f through which the flow of air generated by the blower 30 passes. The opening 24f is located in the center of the drain pan 24 when viewed from the second direction D2. The opening 24f has a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from the second direction D2. The air flowing through the heat exchange chamber 17 in the second direction D2 passes through the opening 24f and flows into the blower chamber 18. The second wall 24b is located outside the first wall 24a when viewed from the second direction D2.

[0045] The receiving portion 24c connects the lower end of the first wall 24a and the lower end of the second wall 24b. The receiving portion 24c corresponds to the bottom of the drain pan 24. The receiving portion 24c is disposed below the first header 21a, the second header 21b, the third header 21c, and the fourth header 21d. The space surrounded by the first wall 24a, the second wall 24b, and the receiving portion 24c is a space for receiving condensed water and temporarily storing it as drain water. The drain outlet 24d is formed in the second wall 24b. The drain outlet 24d is formed in a corner of the rectangular shape of the drain pan 24 when the drain pan 24 is viewed from the second direction D2. The drain outlet 24d is a hole for discharging drain water to the outside of the drain pan 24.

[0046] As shown in Fig. 13, the receiving portion 24c has a first surface 24e, which is an upper surface that slopes downward from the first wall 24a to the second wall 24b. In other words, when the drain pan 24 is viewed from the second direction D2, the receiving portion 24c has a portion where the height position of the first surface 24e decreases from the center side, where the first wall 24a is located, to the outside, where the second wall 24b is located. The first surface 24e corresponds to the bottom surface of the drain pan 24. The first surface 24e is the surface that comes into contact with the drain water.

[0047] It is sufficient that the first surfaces 24e are inclined at least between the first wall 24a extending along the first direction D1 and the second wall 24b extending along the first direction D1. In other words, it is sufficient that at least the first surfaces 24e located below the first header 21a, the second header 21b, the third header 21c, and the fourth header 21d are inclined downward in the third direction D3 from the first wall 24a toward the second wall 24b.

[0048] 11 and 12, the receiving portion 24c has a protrusion 24j protruding from the first surface 24e. The protrusion 24j supports the first header 21a, the second header 21b, the third header 21c, and the fourth header 21d, as shown in FIG.

[0049] (3) Features (3-1) Conventionally, in order to perform efficient heat exchange, there is a technology in which side panels are attached to the heat exchanger to prevent the air flow passing through the heat exchanger from leaking from places other than the heat exchange section.

[0050] When the heat exchanger includes a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger and the first heat exchanger is positioned to cover the second heat exchanger, there is a risk of air leakage from the gap between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

[0051] The air handling unit 100 of this embodiment includes a first heat exchanger 41, a second heat exchanger 42, and a blower 30. The first heat exchanger 41 includes a plurality of first flat tubes 231, a first heat transfer fin 261, a first header 21a, and a second header 21b. The plurality of first flat tubes 231 include a first portion 231a and a second portion 231b, with a first bend 231c of less than 180 degrees sandwiched between them. The plurality of first flat tubes 231 are aligned along a first direction D1. The first heat transfer fin 261 is provided between adjacent plurality of first flat tubes 231. The first header 21a is attached to the ends of the plurality of first flat tubes 231 on the first portion 231a side. The second header 21b is attached to the ends of the plurality of first flat tubes 231 on the second portion 231b side. The second heat exchanger 42 includes a plurality of second flat tubes 232, second heat transfer fins 262, a third header 21c, and a fourth header 21d. The plurality of second flat tubes 232 include a third portion 232a and a fourth portion 232b, sandwiched between them by a second bend 232c of less than 180 degrees. The plurality of second flat tubes 232 are aligned along the first direction D1. The second heat transfer fins 262 are provided between adjacent plurality of second flat tubes 232. The third header 21c is attached to the ends of the plurality of second flat tubes 232 on the third portion 232a side. The fourth header 21d is attached to the ends of the plurality of second flat tubes 232 on the fourth portion 232b side. The blower 30 generates a flow of air passing through the first heat exchanger 41 and the second heat exchanger 42. First portion 231a and second portion 231b are arranged to cover third portion 232a and fourth portion 232b, respectively. Air handling unit 100 further includes side panel 60. Side panel 60 is attached to the end of first heat exchanger 41 in first direction D1. Side panel 60 prevents the air flow generated by blower 30 from leaking through a gap between first heat exchanger 41 and second heat exchanger 42.

[0052] In air handling unit 100, side panel 60 prevents the air flow generated by blower 30 from leaking through the gap between first heat exchanger 41 and second heat exchanger 42. As a result, air handling unit 100 can efficiently perform heat exchange.

[0053] (3-2) In air handling unit 100, width W1 of first portion 231a is smaller than width W2 of first header 21a in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which first portion 231a extends when viewed from first direction D1. Width W3 of third portion 232a is smaller than width W4 of third header 21c in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which third portion 232a extends when viewed from first direction D1.

[0054] (3-3) In air handling unit 100, side panel 60 is a flat plate. A first recess 91 is formed in first surface 61 of side panel 60 on the side of first heat exchanger 41. An end of first heat exchanger 41 in first direction D1 is inserted into first recess 91.

[0055] Air handling unit 100 can determine the position of first heat exchanger 41 and fix first heat exchanger 41 by inserting the end of first heat exchanger 41 in first direction D1 into first recess 91. Furthermore, air handling unit 100 can more effectively prevent the air flow generated by blower 30 from leaking through the gap between first heat exchanger 41 and second heat exchanger 42.

[0056] (3-4) In air handling unit 100, side panel 60 is attached to the end of second heat exchanger 42 in first direction D1. Second recess 92 is formed in first surface 61 of side panel 60. The end of second heat exchanger 42 in first direction D1 is inserted into second recess 92.

[0057] Air handling unit 100 can determine the position of second heat exchanger 42 and fix second heat exchanger 42 by inserting the end of second heat exchanger 42 in first direction D1 into second recess 92. Furthermore, air handling unit 100 can more effectively prevent the air flow generated by blower 30 from leaking through the gap between first heat exchanger 41 and second heat exchanger 42.

[0058] (3-5) Air handling unit 100 further includes shielding member 50. Shielding member 50 is disposed in the gap between first bent portion 231c and second bent portion 232c. A third recess 93 is formed in first surface 61 of side panel 60 on the side facing first heat exchanger 41. An end of shielding member 50 in first direction D1 is inserted into third recess 93.

[0059] Air handling unit 100 can determine the position of shielding member 50 and fix shielding member 50 by inserting the end of shielding member 50 in first direction D1 into third recess 93. Air handling unit 100 can also prevent the air flow generated by blower 30 from leaking through the gap between first bent portion 231c and second bent portion 232c.

[0060] (3-6) Air handling unit 100 further includes drain pan 24. Drain pan 24 receives condensation water from first heat exchanger 41 and second heat exchanger 42. Drain pan 24 is disposed on the side of first header 21a, second header 21b, third header 21c, and fourth header 21d. Drain pan 24 has opening 24f. Opening 24f allows the flow of air generated by blower 30 to pass through.

[0061] (4) Modifications (4-1) Modification 1A Air handling unit 100 may be installed with the positions of heat exchange chamber 17 and air blower chamber 18 interchanged. Air handling unit 101 shown in Fig. 14 is air handling unit 100 with the positions of heat exchange chamber 17 and air blower chamber 18 interchanged. Air generated by air blower 30 flows vertically upward through the internal space of casing 11 from air inlet 13 toward air outlet 14.

[0062] (4-2) Modification 1B In this embodiment, air handling unit 100 is installed vertically so that the longitudinal direction of casing 11 is aligned vertically. However, air handling unit 100 may also be installed horizontally so that the longitudinal direction of casing 11 is aligned horizontally. Air handling unit 102 shown in FIG. 15 is air handling unit 100 rotated 90° when viewed from first direction D1. Air generated by blower 30 flows horizontally through the internal space of casing 11 from air inlet 13 toward air outlet 14.

[0063] Air handling unit 102 further includes a second drain pan 27 and a support member 28. Second drain pan 27 is disposed below heat exchanger 20. Second drain pan 27 receives condensation water that falls from the surfaces of first heat exchanger 41 and second heat exchanger 42 due to their own weight. Support member 28 connects side panel 60 to second drain pan 27. First heat exchanger 41 and second heat exchanger 42 are fixed to second drain pan 27 by side panel 60 and support member 28.

[0064] As a result, air handling unit 102 can secure first heat exchanger 41 and second heat exchanger 42 to second drain pan 27 using side panel 60 and support member 28 .

[0065] Air handling unit 102 may be installed with the positions of heat exchange chamber 17 and blower chamber 18 interchanged. Air handling unit 103 shown in Fig. 16 is air handling unit 102 with the positions of heat exchange chamber 17 and blower chamber 18 interchanged. Air generated by blower device 30 flows horizontally through the internal space of casing 11 from intake port 13 toward outlet port 14.

[0066] (4-3) Modification 1C In the present embodiment, the length of the first heat exchanger 41 along the first direction D1 is equal to the length of the second heat exchanger 42 along the first direction D1. However, as shown in Fig. 17, the length of the first heat exchanger 41 along the first direction D1 may be longer than the length of the second heat exchanger 42 along the first direction D1. When viewed from the second direction D2, the end of the second heat exchanger 42 in the first direction D1 is located inside the first heat exchanger 41.

[0067] In this case, for example, one set of side panels 60 is attached to the end of the first heat exchanger 41 in the first direction D1 so as to sandwich the first heat exchanger 41 along the first direction D1, and another set of side panels 80 is attached to the end of the second heat exchanger 42 in the first direction D1 so as to sandwich the second heat exchanger 42 along the first direction D1. A first recess 91 is formed in the first surface 61 of the side panel 60 facing the first heat exchanger 41. A second recess 92 is formed in the first surface 81 of the side panel 80 facing the second heat exchanger 42.

[0068] The length of the first heat exchanger 41 in the first direction D1 or the length of the second heat exchanger 42 in the first direction D1 may be adjusted by a spacer. The spacer is attached to the end of the first heat exchanger 41 or the second heat exchanger 42 in the first direction D1. At this time, the side panel 60 or the side panel 80 is attached to the spacer.

[0069] (4-4) Modification 1D In the present embodiment, a first recess 91, a second recess 92, and a third recess 93 are formed on the first surface 61 of the side panel 60 facing the first heat exchanger 41 and the second heat exchanger 42. However, instead of the first recess 91, the second recess 92, and the third recess 93, a first protrusion 71, a fourth protrusion 74, and a seventh protrusion 77 may be formed on the first surface 61 of the side panel 60 facing the first heat exchanger 41 and the second heat exchanger 42, as shown in FIG.

[0070] As shown in Figure 18, the first convex portion 71 conforms to the shape of the end portion of the first heat exchanger 41 in the first direction D1. The first convex portion 71 has a second convex portion 72 and a third convex portion 73. The second convex portion 72 conforms to the shape of the end portion of the first heat exchanger 41 in the first direction D1 on the side facing the second heat exchanger 42. The third convex portion 73 conforms to the shape of the end portion of the first heat exchanger 41 in the first direction D1 on the side opposite the second heat exchanger 42. As shown in Figures 19 and 20, the air handling unit 100 can determine the position of the first heat exchanger 41 and fix the first heat exchanger 41 by inserting the end portion of the first heat exchanger 41 in the first direction D1 between the second convex portion 72 and the third convex portion 73. Furthermore, air handling unit 100 can more effectively prevent the air flow generated by blower device 30 from leaking through the gap between first heat exchanger 41 and second heat exchanger 42 .

[0071] As shown in Figure 18, the fourth convex portion 74 conforms to the shape of the end of the second heat exchanger 42 in the first direction D1. The fourth convex portion 74 has a fifth convex portion 75 and a sixth convex portion 76. The fifth convex portion 75 conforms to the shape of the end of the second heat exchanger 42 in the first direction D1 on the side opposite the first heat exchanger 41. The sixth convex portion 76 conforms to the shape of the end of the second heat exchanger 42 in the first direction D1 on the side facing the first heat exchanger 41. As shown in Figures 19 and 20, the air handling unit 100 can determine the position of the second heat exchanger 42 and fix the second heat exchanger 42 by inserting the end of the second heat exchanger 42 in the first direction D1 between the fifth convex portion 75 and the sixth convex portion 76. Furthermore, air handling unit 100 can more effectively prevent the air flow generated by blower device 30 from leaking through the gap between first heat exchanger 41 and second heat exchanger 42 .

[0072] 18 , seventh protrusion 77 conforms to the shape of the end of shielding member 50 in first direction D1. As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20 , air handling unit 100 can determine the position of shielding member 50 and fix shielding member 50 by inserting the end of shielding member 50 in first direction D1 into the space surrounded by seventh protrusion 77. Furthermore, air handling unit 100 can prevent the air flow generated by blower device 30 from leaking through the gap between first bent portion 231 c and second bent portion 232 c.

[0073] Note that a seventh protrusion 77 may be formed instead of the third protrusion 93 on the first surface 61 of the side panel 60, on which the first and second recesses 91 and 92 are formed, facing the first and second heat exchangers 41 and 42. Also, a third protrusion 93 may be formed instead of the seventh protrusion 77 on the first surface 61 of the side panel 60, on which the first and fourth protrusions 71 and 74 are formed, facing the first and second heat exchangers 41 and 42.

[0074] (4-5) Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined in the claims.

[0075] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 21a to 21d First header to fourth header 24 Drain pan (first drain pan) 24f Opening 27 Second drain pan 28 Support member 30 Blower device 41, 42 First heat exchanger, second heat exchanger 50 Shielding member (second member) 60 Side panel (first member) 61 First surface 71 to 77 First to seventh convex portions 91 to 93 First to third concave portions 100 to 103 Air handling unit 231, 232 Plurality of first flat tubes, plural second flat tubes 231a, 231b First portion, second portion 231c, 232c First bent portion, second bent portion 232a, 232b Third portion, fourth portion 261, 262 First heat transfer fin, second heat transfer fin D1 1st direction W1~W4 Width

[0076] U.S. Pat. No. 5,341,870

Claims

1. A first heat exchanger (41) including: a plurality of first flat tubes (231) arranged along a first direction (D1), each having a first portion (231a) and a second portion (231b) sandwiched between a first bend portion (231c) of less than 180 degrees; a first heat transfer fin (261) provided between adjacent first flat tubes; a first header (21a) attached to the ends of the first flat tubes on the first portion side; and a second header (21b) attached to the ends of the first flat tubes on the second portion side; a second heat exchanger (42) including: a plurality of second flat tubes (232) arranged along the first direction, the second flat tubes (232) having a third portion (232a) and a fourth portion (232b) sandwiched between a second bent portion (232c) of less than 180 degrees; second heat transfer fins (262) provided between adjacent second flat tubes; a third header (21c) attached to ends of the plurality of second flat tubes on the third portion side; and a fourth header (21d) attached to ends of the plurality of second flat tubes on the fourth portion side; and a blower device (30) that generates an air flow passing through the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, wherein the first portion and the second portion are arranged to cover the third portion and the fourth portion, respectively, The air handling unit (100-103) further comprises: a first member (60) attached to an end of the first heat exchanger in the first direction, the first member preventing the air flow generated by the blower from leaking from a gap between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

2. An air handling unit (100-103) as described in claim 1, wherein a width (W1) of the first portion is smaller than a width (W2) of the first header in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first portion extends when viewed from the first direction, and a width (W3) of the third portion is smaller than a width (W4) of the third header in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the third portion extends when viewed from the first direction.

3. An air handling unit (100-103) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the first member is a flat plate, and a first surface (61) of the first member facing the first heat exchanger is formed with a first recess (91) into which an end of the first heat exchanger facing the first direction is inserted.

4. An air handling unit as described in claim 3, wherein the first member is attached to an end of the second heat exchanger in the first direction, and a second recess (92) is formed in the first surface of the first member into which the end of the second heat exchanger in the first direction is inserted.

5. An air handling unit (100-103) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the first member is a flat plate, a first surface (61) of the first member facing the first heat exchanger has a first convex portion (71) formed along the shape of an end portion of the first heat exchanger in the first direction, and the first convex portion has a second convex portion (72) along the shape of the second heat exchanger side at the end portion of the first heat exchanger in the first direction, and a third convex portion (73) along the shape of the side opposite to the second heat exchanger at the end portion of the first heat exchanger in the first direction.

6. An air handling unit as described in claim 5, wherein the first member is attached to an end of the second heat exchanger in the first direction, and a fourth convex portion (74) is formed on the first surface of the first member along the shape of the end of the second heat exchanger in the first direction, and the fourth convex portion has a fifth convex portion (75) that follows the shape of the side opposite to the first heat exchanger at the end of the second heat exchanger in the first direction, and a sixth convex portion (76) that follows the shape of the first heat exchanger side at the end of the second heat exchanger in the first direction.

7. An air handling unit (100-103) as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a second member (50) disposed in a gap between the first folded portion and the second folded portion, wherein a third recess (93) is formed on a first surface (61) of the first member facing the first heat exchanger, into which an end of the second member facing in the first direction is inserted.

8. An air handling unit (100-103) as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a second member (50) disposed in a gap between the first bent portion and the second bent portion, wherein a seventh convex portion (77) is formed on a first surface (61) of the first member facing the first heat exchanger, the seventh convex portion (77) conforming to the shape of the end portion of the second member in the first direction.

9. An air handling unit (100-103) as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a first drain pan (24) for receiving condensation water from the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, the first drain pan being arranged on the side of the first header, the second header, the third header, and the fourth header, and having an opening (24f) for passing through the air flow generated by the blower.

10. An air handling unit (102, 103) as described in claim 9, further comprising: a second drain pan (27) that receives condensation water from the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger; and a support member (28) that connects the first member and the second drain pan, wherein the first heat exchanger is fixed to the second drain pan by the first member and the support member.

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