Air conditioner

Abstract

The present invention relates to an air conditioner. An air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a compressor for compressing a refrigerant; a condenser for condensing, into a two-phase refrigerant, the refrigerant compressed in the compressor; a phase separator that is disposed on the outlet side of the condenser and separates the two-phase refrigerant into a gaseous refrigerant and a liquid refrigerant; a first heat exchanger into which the gaseous refrigerant separated by the phase separator is introduced; a second heat exchanger disposed on the outlet side of the first heat exchanger; and an evaporator into which the liquid refrigerant separated by the phase separator is introduced.

Description

air conditioner

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioner.

[0002] An air conditioner is a device that maintains the air in a given space at the most suitable condition for its intended use or purpose. Typically, the air conditioner includes a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator, and operates a refrigeration cycle that compresses, condenses, expands, and evaporates a refrigerant, thereby cooling or heating the given space.

[0003] The above-mentioned designated space may be proposed in various ways depending on the location where the air conditioner is used. For example, if the air conditioner is placed in a home or office, the above-mentioned designated space may be an indoor space of the home or building.

[0004] When an air conditioner performs cooling operation, the outdoor heat exchanger provided in the outdoor unit functions as a condenser, and the indoor heat exchanger provided in the indoor unit functions as an evaporator. On the other hand, when an air conditioner performs heating operation, the indoor heat exchanger functions as a condenser, and the outdoor heat exchanger functions as an evaporator.

[0005] The air conditioner can be operated in cooling mode and dehumidifying mode.

[0006] Cooling mode can be understood as a mode that sucks in indoor air, cools it, and then expels it, while dehumidifying mode can be understood as a mode that sucks in indoor air, lowers its humidity, and then expels it.

[0007] When the above dehumidification mode was implemented, the refrigeration cycle operated, lowering the humidity and causing the temperature of the discharged air to drop. Ultimately, users experienced unwanted cooling, resulting in discomfort.

[0008] Information on prior literature is as follows.

[0009] 1. Publication number (publication date): 10-2019-0088692 (July 29, 2019)

[0010] 2. Name of invention: Multi-type air conditioner

[0011] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an air conditioner capable of maintaining a constant temperature of air discharged during dehumidification mode operation.

[0012] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an air conditioner capable of improving a constant temperature dehumidification effect by separating two-phase refrigerant discharged from a condenser.

[0013] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an air conditioner capable of improving cooling performance by allowing refrigerant discharged from a condenser to bypass a reheat coil when performing a cooling mode.

[0014] An air conditioner according to the present embodiment may include a compressor that compresses a refrigerant, a condenser that condenses the refrigerant compressed by the compressor into a two-phase refrigerant, a phase separator that is arranged on the outlet side of the condenser and separates the two-phase refrigerant into a gaseous refrigerant and a liquid refrigerant, a first heat exchanger into which the gaseous refrigerant separated by the phase separator is introduced, a second heat exchanger that is arranged on the outlet side of the first heat exchanger, and an evaporator into which the liquid refrigerant separated by the phase separator is introduced.

[0015] The above air conditioner may further include a first expansion device arranged on the inlet side of the first heat exchanger.

[0016] The above air conditioner may further include a second expansion device arranged on the inlet side of the second heat exchanger.

[0017] The above air conditioner may further include an indoor expansion device disposed on the inlet side of the evaporator.

[0018] When the air conditioner is in the full-room cooling mode during operation, the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger can function as evaporators.

[0019] When the air conditioner is in the full-room cooling mode during operation, the first expansion device and the indoor expansion device are opened and adjusted to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant, and the second expansion device can be fully opened.

[0020] When the single dehumidification mode is performed among the operation modes of the above air conditioner, the first heat exchanger can function as a condenser and the second heat exchanger can function as an evaporator.

[0021] When the single dehumidification mode is performed among the operation modes of the above air conditioner, the first expansion device is fully opened, the opening of the second expansion device is adjusted to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant, and the indoor expansion device can be closed.

[0022] When the air conditioner is in the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode during operation, the first heat exchanger can function as a condenser and the second heat exchanger can function as an evaporator.

[0023] When the air conditioner is in the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode during operation, the first expansion device is fully opened, and the second expansion device and the indoor expansion device are opened to control the pressure of the refrigerant.

[0024] The above-mentioned phase separator may include a case forming a space in which a refrigerant is stored, an inlet portion connected to the case and into which refrigerant is introduced, a first discharge portion connected to the case and through which gaseous refrigerant is discharged, a second discharge portion connected to the case and through which liquid refrigerant is discharged, and a gas-liquid separation pipe disposed inside the case and connected to the first discharge portion.

[0025] The first discharge portion may be provided at the upper portion of the case, and the second discharge portion may be provided at the lower portion of the case.

[0026] The first heat exchanger is provided in multiple units, and a plurality of discharge ports for distributing the refrigerant of the case to the multiple first heat exchangers can be formed in the first discharge portion.

[0027] The above evaporators are provided in multiple numbers, and a plurality of discharge ports for distributing the refrigerant of the case to the multiple evaporators can be formed in the second discharge unit.

[0028] An air conditioner according to the present embodiment may include a compressor that compresses a refrigerant, a condenser that condenses the refrigerant compressed by the compressor, a first heat exchanger arranged at an outlet side of the condenser, a branch pipe arranged at an outlet side of the first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger into which at least a portion of the refrigerant introduced into the branch pipe is introduced, an evaporator into which the remaining portion of the refrigerant introduced into the branch pipe is introduced and evaporated, a bypass pipe that connects a pipe extending from an inlet side of the first heat exchanger and a pipe extending from an outlet side of the first heat exchanger so that the refrigerant discharged from the condenser bypasses the first heat exchanger, and a bypass valve installed in the bypass pipe.

[0029] The above air conditioner may further include an expansion device disposed on the inlet side of the second heat exchanger.

[0030] The above air conditioner may further include an indoor expansion device disposed on the inlet side of the evaporator.

[0031] The above air conditioner may further include a combined pipe that combines the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger and the refrigerant discharged from the evaporator and guides the combined refrigerant to the compressor.

[0032] When the air conditioner is in the full-room cooling mode during operation, the bypass valve is opened and the refrigerant condensed in the condenser can bypass the first heat exchanger and flow into the combined pipe.

[0033] When the air conditioner is in the single dehumidification mode or the full-room cooling dehumidification mode during operation, the bypass valve is closed and the refrigerant condensed in the condenser can flow into the first heat exchanger.

[0034] When the above air conditioner is operated in a single dehumidification mode or a full-room cooling and dehumidification mode, the first heat exchanger can function as a condenser and the second heat exchanger can function as an evaporator.

[0035] When the single dehumidification mode is performed among the operation modes of the above air conditioner, the expansion device is opened and closed to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant, and the indoor expansion device can be closed.

[0036] When the above air conditioner is in the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode during operation, the expansion device and the indoor expansion valve can be opened and closed to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant.

[0037] According to an embodiment of the present invention, since the two-phase refrigerant partially condensed in the condenser is introduced into the constant temperature dehumidification indoor unit, there is an advantage in that the temperature of the discharged air can be kept constant during dehumidification mode operation.

[0038] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a two-phase refrigerant discharged from a condenser is separated into a gaseous refrigerant and a liquid refrigerant through a phase separator, and the separated gaseous refrigerant is introduced into a constant temperature dehumidifying indoor unit and the separated liquid refrigerant is introduced into a cooling indoor unit, so that there is an advantage of increasing the dehumidification amount and improving the constant temperature dehumidifying effect.

[0039] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when the full-room cooling mode is performed, the refrigerant discharged from the condenser bypasses the reheat coil and flows into the dehumidifying coil and the cooling indoor unit, so there is an advantage of improved cooling performance.

[0040] Figure 1 is a cycle diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioner according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 is a cycle diagram showing the refrigerant flow when the air conditioner according to the first embodiment of the present invention is operated in the full-room cooling mode.

[0042] Figure 3 is a cycle diagram showing the refrigerant flow pattern when the air conditioner according to the first embodiment of the present invention is operated in a single dehumidification mode.

[0043] Figure 4 is a cycle diagram showing the refrigerant flow when the air conditioner according to the first embodiment of the present invention is operated in the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode.

[0044] Figure 5 is a cycle diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioner according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 6 is a cycle diagram showing the refrigerant flow pattern when the air conditioner according to the second embodiment of the present invention is operated in the full-room cooling mode.

[0046] Figure 7 is a cycle diagram showing the refrigerant flow when the air conditioner according to the second embodiment of the present invention operates in a single dehumidification mode.

[0047] Figure 8 is a cycle diagram showing the refrigerant flow when the air conditioner according to the second embodiment of the present invention is operated in the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode.

[0048] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When designating components in the drawings, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components will be given the same reference numbers even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, if a detailed description of a related known structure or function is deemed to hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, the detailed description will be omitted.

[0049] Figure 1 is a cycle diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioner according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 1, an air conditioner (10) according to a first embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of components constituting a refrigeration cycle and a refrigerant pipe (200) that connects the plurality of components and guides the flow of refrigerant.

[0051] The above air conditioner (10) may include an outdoor unit (100) and an indoor unit.

[0052] The outdoor unit (100) may be placed outside a building, and the indoor unit may be placed inside a building. The indoor unit may include a plurality of indoor units (300, 400, 500, 600). In this case, the refrigerant pipe (200) may connect the outdoor unit (100) and each of the plurality of indoor units (300, 400, 500, 600).

[0053] The above multiple indoor units may include a first indoor unit (300), a second indoor unit (400), a third indoor unit (500), and a fourth indoor unit (600).

[0054] The first indoor unit (300) and the second indoor unit (400) may include the same components. In addition, the third indoor unit (500) and the fourth indoor unit (600) may include the same components. Although the present embodiment is described as having four indoor units, it should be noted that there is no limitation on the number of indoor units.

[0055] The above air conditioner (10) may include a compressor (110), a condenser (120), a phase separator (130), a first heat exchanger (141, 151), a second heat exchanger (142, 152), and an evaporator (181, 182). The above air conditioner (10) may further include an accumulator (195).

[0056] Each of the above-described components is connected by the refrigerant pipe (200), and the refrigerant can perform compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation operations while circulating through the refrigerant pipe (200).

[0057] The compressor (110) can compress a gaseous refrigerant into a high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant. The compressor (110) can include a constant-speed compressor that rotates at a constant speed to compress to a constant capacity, or an inverter compressor that can adjust the compression capacity by varying the rotation speed according to the load.

[0058] The gas-liquid separator (195) may be connected to the suction side of the compressor (110).

[0059] The above-mentioned gas-liquid separator (195) may be configured to filter out liquid refrigerant among the refrigerant sucked into the compressor (110) and send the separated gas-phase refrigerant to the compressor (110).

[0060] The condenser (120) can be connected to the discharge side of the compressor (110).

[0061] The condenser (120) may receive and condense the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (110). The refrigerant introduced into the condenser (120) may be completely or partially condensed. As a result, the refrigerant discharged from the condenser (120) may be a high-temperature, high-pressure saturated liquid refrigerant or a high-temperature, high-pressure two-phase refrigerant. The condenser (120) may be provided so that air and the refrigerant exchange heat.

[0062] The above compressor (110), condenser (120), and gas-liquid separator (195) can be understood as components constituting the outdoor unit (100). That is, the compressor (110), condenser (120), and gas-liquid separator (195) can be arranged inside the outdoor unit (100).

[0063] A condensation fan (125) may be installed on one side of the condenser (120). The condensation fan (125) may blow air into the condenser (120).

[0064] For example, the condenser (120) may be configured as an outdoor heat exchanger of the outdoor unit (100). At this time, the condensing fan (125) is configured as an outdoor unit fan and can perform heat exchange by blowing outside air into the condenser (120).

[0065] The phase separator (130) is arranged on the outlet side of the condenser (120). The refrigerant condensed in the condenser (120) can be introduced into the phase separator (130).

[0066] The above-mentioned phase separator (130) functions to separate the two-phase refrigerant into a gaseous refrigerant and a liquid refrigerant. For example, when the refrigerant discharged from the condenser (120) is a two-phase refrigerant, the gaseous refrigerant separated through the phase separator (130) may be guided to the first heat exchanger (141, 151), and the separated liquid refrigerant may be guided to the evaporator (181, 182).

[0067] Specifically, the above-mentioned phase separator (130) may include a case (131) forming a space in which refrigerant is stored, an inlet (132) connected to the case (131) and into which refrigerant is introduced, a first discharge (133) and a second discharge (134) connected to the case (131) and through which refrigerant is discharged, and a gas-liquid separation pipe (135) arranged inside the case (131).

[0068] The case (131) may be formed in a hollow cylindrical shape. The case (131) may be extended vertically. A storage space may be formed inside the case (131) into which refrigerant condensed in the condenser (120) is introduced and stored.

[0069] The above inlet (132) may be connected to the outer surface or side surface of the case (131). The inlet (132) is a pipe through which the refrigerant condensed in the condenser (120) flows into the interior of the case (131). For example, the inlet (132) may be connected to the outer surface adjacent to the upper end of the case (131).

[0070] The first discharge portion (133) may be coupled to the upper part or upper surface of the case (131). The first discharge portion (133) may be understood as a pipe through which the refrigerant flowing inside the case (131) is discharged to the first heat exchanger (141, 151). The first discharge portion (133) may allow the gaseous refrigerant separated through the phase separator (130) to flow. For example, the first discharge portion (133) may be connected to the upper end of the case (131).

[0071] The first discharge portion (133) may be formed with a plurality of discharge ports (133a) for distributing refrigerant to a plurality of indoor units (300, 400). The plurality of discharge ports (133a) may each extend from one side of the first discharge portion (133). The plurality of discharge ports (133a) may be spaced apart from each other along the length direction of the first discharge portion (133). The plurality of discharge ports (133a) may extend in a direction parallel to the ground.

[0072] The above-mentioned plurality of discharge ports (133a) can be connected to the first indoor unit (300) and the second indoor unit (400), respectively. Accordingly, the refrigerant introduced into the first discharge portion (133) can be distributed to the first indoor unit (300) and the second indoor unit (400) along the above-mentioned plurality of discharge ports (133a).

[0073] The second discharge portion (134) may be coupled to the lower or bottom surface of the case (131). The second discharge portion (134) may be understood as a pipe through which the refrigerant flowing inside the case (131) is discharged to the evaporator (181, 182). The liquid refrigerant separated through the phase separator (130) may flow through the second discharge portion (134). For example, the second discharge portion (134) may be connected to the lower end of the case (131).

[0074] The second discharge portion (134) may be formed with a plurality of discharge ports (134a) for distributing refrigerant to a plurality of indoor units (500, 600). The plurality of discharge ports (134a) may each extend from one side of the second discharge portion (134). The plurality of discharge ports (134a) may be spaced apart from each other along the length direction of the first discharge portion (134). The plurality of discharge ports (134a) may extend in a direction parallel to the ground.

[0075] The above-mentioned plurality of discharge ports (134a) can be connected to the third indoor unit (500) and the fourth indoor unit (600), respectively. Accordingly, the refrigerant introduced into the second discharge portion (134) can be distributed to the third indoor unit (500) and the fourth indoor unit (600) along the above-mentioned plurality of discharge ports (134a).

[0076] The above-mentioned gas-liquid separation pipe (135) is arranged inside the case (131) and functions to guide the gaseous refrigerant inside the case (131) to the first discharge portion (133). The gas-liquid separation pipe (135) may be extended vertically. For example, the gas-liquid separation pipe (135) may be vertically erected at the center of the inside of the case (131). In addition, the upper end of the gas-liquid separation pipe (135) may be connected to the first discharge portion (133). Therefore, the gaseous refrigerant inside the case (131) may flow along the gas-liquid separation pipe (135) to the first discharge portion (133).

[0077] The first heat exchanger (141, 151) is connected to the outlet side of the phase separator (130), and the refrigerant condensed in the condenser (120) can be introduced therein. The first heat exchanger (141, 151) can be connected to the discharge port (133a) of the first discharge portion (133) of the phase separator (130). The first heat exchanger (141, 151) can be provided so that air and refrigerant can exchange heat. The first heat exchanger (141, 151) can function as a condenser or an evaporator depending on the operation mode.

[0078] The second heat exchanger (142, 152) is connected to the outlet side of the first heat exchanger (141, 151), and the refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (141, 151) can be introduced therein. The second heat exchanger (142, 152) and the first heat exchanger (141, 151) can be connected in series.

[0079] The refrigerant condensed or evaporated in the first heat exchanger (141, 151) may be introduced into the second heat exchanger (142, 152) and evaporated. The second heat exchanger (142, 152) may be provided so that air and refrigerant may exchange heat. The first heat exchanger (141, 151) may function as an evaporator.

[0080] An indoor unit fan (145, 155) may be installed on one side of the first heat exchanger (141, 151) and the second heat exchanger (142, 152). The indoor unit fan (145, 155) may blow air to the first heat exchanger (141, 151) and the second heat exchanger (142, 152).

[0081] For example, the first heat exchanger (141, 151) and the second heat exchanger (142, 152) may be configured as indoor heat exchangers of the indoor unit. When the indoor unit fan (145, 155) operates, indoor air may first pass through the second heat exchanger (142, 152) and then pass through the first heat exchanger (141, 151).

[0082] The above air conditioner (10) may further include a first expansion device (161, 171) provided on the inlet side of the first heat exchanger (141, 151).

[0083] The refrigerant condensed in the above condenser (120) can be introduced into the first heat exchanger (141, 151) after passing through the first expansion device (161, 171).

[0084] The above first expansion device (161, 171) may be configured as an electronic expansion valve (EEV) whose opening can be adjusted. The degree of depressurization of the refrigerant can be adjusted according to the adjustment of the opening of the first expansion device (161, 171).

[0085] When the air conditioner (10) is in the full-room cooling mode, the opening of the first expansion device (161, 171) can be adjusted to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant. Accordingly, the refrigerant condensed in the condenser (120) is reduced to a low pressure while passing through the first expansion device (161, 171), and the reduced pressure refrigerant can be heat-exchanged (evaporated) in the first heat exchanger (141, 151). At this time, the first heat exchanger (151) can function as an evaporator.

[0086] When the air conditioner (10) is in the single dehumidification mode or the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode during operation, the first expansion device (161, 171) is fully open so that the refrigerant can pass through the first expansion device (161, 171) without being decompressed. Accordingly, the refrigerant condensed in the condenser (120) can pass through the first expansion device (161, 171) and be heat-exchanged (condensed) in the first heat exchanger (141, 151). At this time, the first heat exchanger (141, 151) can function as a condenser.

[0087] The above air conditioner (10) may further include a second expansion device (165, 175) provided on the inlet side of the second heat exchanger (142, 152).

[0088] The refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (141, 151) can pass through the second expansion device (165, 175) and then flow into the second heat exchanger (142, 152).

[0089] The above second expansion device (165, 175) may be configured as an electronic expansion valve (EEV) whose opening can be adjusted. The degree of depressurization of the refrigerant can be adjusted according to the adjustment of the opening of the second expansion device (165, 175).

[0090] When the air conditioner (10) is in the full-room cooling mode during operation, the second expansion device (165, 175) is fully open so that the refrigerant can pass through the second expansion device (165, 175) without being decompressed. Accordingly, the refrigerant evaporated in the first heat exchanger (141, 151) can be further evaporated while passing through the second heat exchanger (142, 152). At this time, the second heat exchanger (142, 152) can function as an evaporator.

[0091] When the air conditioner (10) operates in a single dehumidification mode or a full-room cooling / dehumidification mode, the second expansion device (165, 175) may be opened and closed to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant. Accordingly, the refrigerant condensed in the first heat exchanger (141, 151) may be reduced in pressure while passing through the second expansion device (165, 175). The refrigerant reduced in pressure in the second expansion device (165, 175) may be introduced into the second heat exchanger (142, 152) to undergo heat exchange (evaporation). At this time, the second heat exchanger (142, 152) may function as an evaporator.

[0092] The above first heat exchanger (141, 142), second heat exchanger (142, 152), first expansion device (161, 171), and second expansion device (165, 175) can be understood as components constituting the indoor unit (300, 400). That is, the first heat exchanger (141, 142), second heat exchanger (142, 152), first expansion device (161, 171), and second expansion device (171, 175) can be arranged inside the indoor unit (300, 400).

[0093] When the indoor fan (145, 155) operates, the air that has passed through the second heat exchanger (142, 152) and has been cooled and has its humidity reduced can be partially heated as it passes through the first heat exchanger (141, 151) and can be introduced into the room with its relative humidity reduced (constant temperature dehumidification effect). Therefore, the air that has passed through the second heat exchanger (142, 152) and the first heat exchanger (141, 151) can be introduced into the room in a cooled and dehumidified state.

[0094] These indoor units (300, 400) are indoor units that discharge constant-temperature dehumidified air and can be called "constant-temperature dehumidifying indoor units." The constant-temperature dehumidifying indoor units may include a first constant-temperature dehumidifying indoor unit (300) and a second constant-temperature dehumidifying indoor unit (400).

[0095] The above evaporator (181, 182) is connected to the outlet side of the phase separator (130), and the refrigerant condensed in the condenser (120) can be introduced and evaporated.

[0096] The above evaporator (181, 182) may include a plurality of evaporators (181, 182). The above plurality of evaporators (181, 182) may include a first evaporator (181) and a second evaporator (182). The first evaporator (181) and the second evaporator (182) may be connected to a discharge port (134a) of a second discharge portion (134) of the phase separator (130). The first evaporator (181) and the second evaporator (182) may be arranged in parallel. The first evaporator (181) and the second evaporator (182) may be provided so that air and refrigerant exchange heat.

[0097] A first evaporation fan (185) may be installed on one side of the first evaporator (181). The first evaporation fan (185) may blow air into the first evaporator (181).

[0098] For example, the first evaporator (181) may be configured as an indoor heat exchanger of an indoor unit. At this time, the first evaporator fan (185) is configured as an indoor unit fan and can perform heat exchange by blowing indoor air to the first evaporator (181).

[0099] A second evaporation fan (186) may be installed on one side of the second evaporator (182). The second evaporation fan (186) may blow air into the second evaporator (182).

[0100] For example, the second evaporator (182) may be configured as an indoor heat exchanger of the indoor unit. At this time, the second evaporator fan (186) is configured as an indoor unit fan and can perform heat exchange by blowing indoor air to the second evaporator (182).

[0101] The above air conditioner (10) may further include an indoor expansion device (187, 188) provided on the inlet side of the above evaporator (181, 182).

[0102] The above indoor expansion device (187, 188) may include a first indoor expansion device (187) provided on the inlet side of the first evaporator (181) and a second indoor expansion device (188) provided on the inlet side of the second evaporator (182).

[0103] The refrigerant condensed in the condenser (120) can pass through the first indoor expansion device (187) and the second indoor expansion device (188), respectively, and then flow into the first evaporator (181) and the second evaporator (182), respectively.

[0104] The first indoor expansion device (187) and the second indoor expansion device (188) may be configured as electronic expansion valves (EEVs) whose openings can be adjusted. The degree of depressurization of the refrigerant can be adjusted by adjusting the openings of the first indoor expansion device (187) and the second indoor expansion device (188).

[0105] When the air conditioner (10) is in the full-room cooling mode or the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode among the operation modes, the first indoor expansion device (187) and the second indoor expansion device (188) can be opened and closed to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant. Accordingly, the refrigerant condensed in the condenser (120) is reduced to a low pressure while passing through the first indoor expansion device (187) and the second indoor expansion device (188), and the reduced pressure refrigerant can be heat exchanged (evaporated) in the first evaporator (181) and the second evaporator (182), respectively.

[0106] When the air conditioner (10) operates in a standalone dehumidification mode, both the first indoor expansion device (187) and the second indoor expansion device (188) may be closed, thereby blocking the refrigerant from flowing into the first evaporator (181) and the second evaporator (182). That is, in the standalone dehumidification mode, the first evaporator (181) and the second evaporator (182) are not used.

[0107] The above first evaporator (181) and the above first indoor expansion device (187) can be understood as components constituting one indoor unit.

[0108] When the first evaporation fan (185) above operates, cooled air can be introduced into the room by passing through the first evaporator (181). This indoor unit (500) is an indoor unit that discharges cooled air and can be called a "first cooling indoor unit."

[0109] The above second evaporator (182) and the above second indoor expansion device (188) can be understood as components constituting one indoor unit.

[0110] When the above second evaporation fan (186) operates, cooled air can be introduced into the room by passing through the second evaporator (182). This indoor unit (600) is an indoor unit that discharges cooled air and can be called a "second cooling indoor unit."

[0111] The above air conditioner (10) may further include a combined pipe (191) in which the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (142, 152) and the evaporator (181, 182) is combined.

[0112] The above combined pipe (191) has the function of combining the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (142, 152) and the evaporator (181, 182) and sending it to the compressor (110).

[0113] The outlet side of the above combined pipe (191) is connected to the inlet side of the above gas-liquid separator (195), and the inlet side of the above combined pipe (191) can be connected to the outlet side of the second heat exchanger (142, 152) and the outlet side of the above evaporator (181, 182).

[0114] Meanwhile, the refrigerant pipe (200) may include a discharge pipe (205) that guides the refrigerant compressed in the compressor (110) to the condenser (120).

[0115] The above discharge pipe (205) can connect the discharge side of the compressor (110) and the inlet side of the condenser (120).

[0116] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a first connecting pipe (210) that guides the refrigerant condensed in the condenser (120) to the phase separator (130).

[0117] The first connecting pipe (210) can connect the outlet side of the condenser (120) and the inlet side of the phase separator (130). The first connecting pipe (210) can be connected to the inlet (132) of the phase separator (130).

[0118] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a second connecting pipe (215, 220) that sends at least a portion of the refrigerant introduced into the phase separator (130) to the first heat exchanger (141, 151).

[0119] The second connecting pipe (215, 220) can connect the outlet side of the phase separator (130) and the inlet side of the first heat exchanger (141, 151). The second connecting pipe (215, 220) can be connected to the discharge port (133a) of the first discharge portion (133) of the phase separator (130).

[0120] The first expansion device (161, 171) can be installed in the second connecting pipe (215, 220).

[0121] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a third connecting pipe (225, 230) that sends the refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (141, 151) to the second heat exchanger (142, 152).

[0122] The above third connecting pipe (225, 230) can connect the outlet side of the first heat exchanger (141, 151) and the inlet side of the second heat exchanger (142, 152).

[0123] The second expansion device (165, 175) can be installed in the third connecting pipe (225, 230).

[0124] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a fourth connecting pipe (235, 240) that sends the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (142, 152) to the combined pipe (191).

[0125] The above fourth connecting pipe (235, 240) can connect the outlet side of the second heat exchanger (142, 152) and the inlet port of the combined pipe (191).

[0126] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a fifth connecting pipe (245) that sends at least a portion of the refrigerant introduced into the phase separator (130) to the first evaporator (181).

[0127] The fifth connecting pipe (245) can connect the outlet side of the phase separator (130) and the inlet side of the first evaporator (181). The fifth connecting pipe (245) can be connected to the discharge port (134a) of the second discharge portion (134) of the phase separator (130).

[0128] The first indoor expansion device (187) can be installed in the fifth connecting pipe (245).

[0129] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a sixth connecting pipe (250) that sends at least a portion of the refrigerant introduced into the phase separator (130) to the second evaporator (182).

[0130] The sixth connecting pipe (250) can connect the outlet side of the phase separator (130) and the inlet side of the second evaporator (182). The sixth connecting pipe (250) can be connected to the discharge port (134a) of the second discharge portion (134) of the phase separator (130).

[0131] The second indoor expansion device (188) can be installed in the sixth connecting pipe (250).

[0132] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a seventh connecting pipe (255) that sends the refrigerant discharged from the first evaporator (181) to the combined pipe (191).

[0133] The above seventh connecting pipe (255) can connect the outlet side of the first evaporator (181) and the inlet port of the combined pipe (191).

[0134] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include an eighth connecting pipe (260) that sends the refrigerant discharged from the second evaporator (182) to the combined pipe (191).

[0135] The above-mentioned eighth connecting pipe (260) can connect the outlet side of the second evaporator (182) and the inlet port of the combined pipe (191).

[0136] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a ninth connecting pipe (265) that guides the refrigerant introduced into the combined pipe (191) to the gas-liquid separator (195).

[0137] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a suction pipe (270) that guides the refrigerant discharged from the gas-liquid separator (195) to the suction side of the compressor (110).

[0138] The above air conditioner (10) can be operated in any one of the single dehumidification mode, the full-room cooling mode, and the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode.

[0139] The standalone dehumidification mode is a mode that uses only the constant temperature dehumidification indoor unit (300, 400) and does not use the first cooling indoor unit (500) and the second cooling indoor unit (600), so that air dehumidified at a constant temperature can be discharged from the constant temperature dehumidification indoor unit (300, 400).

[0140] The full-room cooling mode is a mode that uses all of the above-mentioned constant temperature dehumidification indoor units (300, 400), the first cooling indoor unit (500), and the second cooling indoor unit (600), and can be understood as a mode in which cooled air is discharged from all of the above-mentioned constant temperature dehumidification indoor units (300, 400), the first cooling indoor unit (500), and the second cooling indoor unit (600).

[0141] The full-room cooling and dehumidification mode is a mode that uses all of the constant temperature dehumidification indoor units (300, 400) and the first cooling indoor unit (500) and the second cooling indoor unit (600), and can be understood as a mode in which constant temperature dehumidified air is discharged from the constant temperature dehumidification indoor unit (300, 400) and cooled air is discharged from the first cooling indoor unit (500) and the second cooling indoor unit (600).

[0142] Figure 2 is a cycle diagram showing the refrigerant flow when the air conditioner according to the first embodiment of the present invention is operated in the full-room cooling mode.

[0143] Referring to Fig. 2, when the air conditioner (10) is operated in the full-room cooling mode, the first heat exchanger (141, 151) and the second heat exchanger (142, 152) can function as evaporators.

[0144] In the full-room cooling mode, the first expansion device (161, 171) is opened and controlled to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant, and the second expansion device (165, 17552) can be fully opened.

[0145] At this time, the opening of the first indoor expansion device (181) and the second indoor expansion device (185) can be adjusted to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant. Accordingly, a portion of the refrigerant can circulate through the first heat exchanger (141, 151) and the second heat exchanger (142, 152), and the remaining portion can circulate through the first evaporator (181) and the second evaporator (182).

[0146] Specifically, the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant discharged from the gas-liquid separator (195) may be compressed by flowing into the compressor (110) through the suction pipe (270). The compressed refrigerant may become a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant.

[0147] The refrigerant compressed in the compressor (110) may be introduced into the condenser (120) through the discharge pipe (205) and condensed. At this time, the refrigerant introduced into the condenser (120) may be condensed to become a high-temperature, high-pressure, supercooled liquid refrigerant. The refrigerant discharged from the condenser (120) is introduced into the phase separator (130) through the first connection pipe (210).

[0148] Here, since the refrigerant introduced into the phase separator (130) is not a two-phase refrigerant, no separate phase separation occurs. That is, the phase separator (130) can function as a distributor that distributes the introduced refrigerant.

[0149] Some of the refrigerant introduced into the above-mentioned separator (130) may be introduced into the first expansion device (161, 171) through the second connecting pipe (215, 220), depressurized, and then evaporated in the first heat exchanger (141, 151).

[0150] And the refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (141, 151) may pass through the second expansion device (165, 175) along the third connecting pipe (225, 230) and then be further evaporated in the second heat exchanger (142, 152). The evaporated refrigerant may become a low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant.

[0151] The refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (142, 152) can be introduced into the combined pipe (191) along the fourth connecting pipe (235, 240).

[0152] Meanwhile, another portion of the refrigerant introduced into the phase separator (130) may be introduced into the first indoor expansion device (187) along the fifth connecting pipe (245), depressurized, and then evaporated in the first evaporator (181). The refrigerant discharged from the first evaporator (181) may be introduced into the combined pipe (191) along the seventh connecting pipe (255).

[0153] The remaining portion of the refrigerant introduced into the above-mentioned phase separator (130) may be introduced into the second indoor expansion device (188) along the sixth connecting pipe (250), depressurized, and then evaporated in the second evaporator (182). The refrigerant discharged from the second evaporator (182) may be introduced into the combined pipe (191) along the eighth connecting pipe (260).

[0154] The refrigerant flowing into the above-mentioned combined pipe (191) is combined and then flows into the gas-liquid separator (195) along the ninth connecting pipe (265). The gas-phase refrigerant separated by passing through the gas-liquid separator (195) can be sucked into the compressor (110) through the suction pipe (270).

[0155] This circulation of refrigerant can be repeated.

[0156] Figure 3 is a cycle diagram showing the refrigerant flow pattern when the air conditioner according to the first embodiment of the present invention is operated in a single dehumidification mode.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 3, when the air conditioner (10) is operated in a single dehumidification mode, the first heat exchanger (141, 151) can function as a condenser and the second heat exchanger (142, 152) can function as an evaporator.

[0158] In the single dehumidification mode, the first expansion device (161, 171) is fully open, and the second expansion device (165, 175) is opened and controlled so that the pressure of the refrigerant can be reduced.

[0159] At this time, the first indoor expansion device (187) and the second indoor expansion device (188) can be closed. Accordingly, the refrigerant circulates through the first heat exchanger (141, 151) and the second heat exchanger (142, 152), but does not circulate through the first evaporator (181) and the second evaporator (182). That is, the evaporators (181, 182) are not used in the single dehumidification mode.

[0160] Specifically, the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant discharged from the gas-liquid separator (195) may be compressed by flowing into the compressor (110) through the suction pipe (270). The compressed refrigerant may become a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant.

[0161] The refrigerant compressed in the compressor (110) may be introduced into the condenser (120) through the discharge pipe (205) and condensed. At this time, the refrigerant introduced into the condenser (120) may be partially condensed to become a high-temperature, high-pressure, two-phase refrigerant.

[0162] For example, the frequency of the compressor (110) can be controlled and the rotation speed of the condensing fan (125) can be controlled so that the refrigerant discharged from the condenser (120) becomes a two-phase refrigerant. The two-phase refrigerant discharged from the condenser (120) flows into the phase separator (130) through the first connecting pipe (210).

[0163] Here, since both of the indoor expansion devices (187, 188) are closed, the two-phase refrigerant introduced into the phase separator (130) does not undergo phase separation. That is, the phase separator (130) can function as a distributor that distributes the introduced refrigerant.

[0164] The refrigerant introduced into the above-mentioned phase separator (130) can pass through the first expansion device (161, 171) via the second connecting pipe (215, 220). At this time, the first expansion device (161, 171) is completely open so that the refrigerant can pass through the first expansion device (161, 171) without depressurizing. The refrigerant that has passed through the first expansion device (161, 171) can be introduced into the first heat exchanger (141, 151) and further condensed. The condensed refrigerant can become a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant.

[0165] The refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (141, 151) may be introduced into the second expansion device (165, 175) through the third connecting pipe (225, 230), depressurized, and then evaporated in the second heat exchanger (142, 152). The evaporated refrigerant may become a low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant.

[0166] The refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (142, 152) can be introduced into the combined pipe (191) along the fourth connecting pipe (235, 240). The refrigerant discharged from the combined pipe (191) is introduced into the gas-liquid separator (195) along the ninth connecting pipe (265). The gaseous refrigerant separated by passing through the gas-liquid separator (195) can be sucked into the compressor (110) through the suction pipe (270).

[0167] This circulation of refrigerant can be repeated.

[0168] Figure 4 is a cycle diagram showing the refrigerant flow when the air conditioner according to the first embodiment of the present invention is operated in the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode.

[0169] Referring to FIG. 4, when the air conditioner (10) is operated in the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode, the first heat exchanger (141, 151) can function as a condenser and the second heat exchanger (142, 152) can function as an evaporator.

[0170] In the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode, the first expansion device (161, 171) is fully open, and the second expansion device (165, 175) is opened and controlled so that the pressure of the refrigerant can be reduced.

[0171] At this time, the opening of the first indoor expansion device (187) and the second indoor expansion device (188) can be adjusted to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant. Accordingly, a portion of the refrigerant can circulate through the first heat exchanger (141, 151) and the second heat exchanger (142, 152), and the remaining portion can circulate through the first evaporator (181) and the second evaporator (182).

[0172] Specifically, the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant discharged from the gas-liquid separator (195) may be compressed by flowing into the compressor (110) through the suction pipe (270). The compressed refrigerant may become a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant.

[0173] The refrigerant compressed in the compressor (110) may be introduced into the condenser (120) through the discharge pipe (205) and condensed. At this time, the refrigerant introduced into the condenser (120) may be partially condensed to become a high-temperature, high-pressure, two-phase refrigerant.

[0174] For example, the frequency of the compressor (110) can be controlled and the rotation speed of the condensing fan (125) can be controlled so that the refrigerant discharged from the condenser (120) becomes a two-phase refrigerant. The two-phase refrigerant discharged from the condenser (120) flows into the phase separator (130) through the first connecting pipe (210).

[0175] Here, the two-phase refrigerant introduced into the phase separator (130) is phase-separated, and the separated gaseous refrigerant is guided to the first discharge unit (133) through the gas-liquid separation pipe (135), and the separated liquid refrigerant can be guided to the second discharge unit (134). That is, the phase separator (130) can perform the function of separating and distributing the introduced two-phase refrigerant.

[0176] Some of the refrigerant introduced into the above-mentioned phase separator (130) may pass through the first expansion device (161, 171) via the second connecting pipe (215, 220). At this time, the first expansion device (161, 171) is fully opened so that the refrigerant may pass through the first expansion device (161, 171) without depressurizing. The refrigerant that has passed through the first expansion device (161, 171) may be introduced into the first heat exchanger (141, 151) and further condensed. The condensed refrigerant may become a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant.

[0177] The refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (141, 151) may be introduced into the second expansion device (165, 175) through the third connecting pipe (225, 230), depressurized, and then evaporated in the second heat exchanger (142, 152). The evaporated refrigerant may become a low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant.

[0178] The refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (142, 152) can be introduced into the combined pipe (191) along the fourth connecting pipe (235, 240).

[0179] Meanwhile, another portion of the refrigerant introduced into the phase separator (130) may be introduced into the first indoor expansion device (187) along the fifth connecting pipe (245), depressurized, and then evaporated in the first evaporator (181). The refrigerant discharged from the first evaporator (181) may be introduced into the combined pipe (191) along the seventh connecting pipe (255).

[0180] The remaining portion of the refrigerant introduced into the above-mentioned phase separator (130) may be introduced into the second indoor expansion device (188) along the sixth connecting pipe (250), depressurized, and then evaporated in the second evaporator (182). The refrigerant discharged from the second evaporator (182) may be introduced into the combined pipe (191) along the eighth connecting pipe (260).

[0181] The refrigerant flowing into the above-mentioned combined pipe (191) is combined and then flows into the gas-liquid separator (195) along the ninth connecting pipe (265). The gas-phase refrigerant separated by passing through the gas-liquid separator (195) can be sucked into the compressor (110) through the suction pipe (270).

[0182] This circulation of refrigerant can be repeated.

[0183] Figure 5 is a cycle diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioner according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0184] Referring to FIG. 5, an air conditioner (10) according to a second embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of components constituting a refrigeration cycle and a refrigerant pipe (200) that connects the plurality of components and guides the flow of refrigerant.

[0185] The above air conditioner (10) may include an outdoor unit (100) and an indoor unit.

[0186] The outdoor unit (100) may be placed outside a building, and the indoor unit may be placed inside a building. The indoor unit may include a plurality of indoor units (300, 400, 500). In this case, the refrigerant pipe (200) may connect the outdoor unit (100) and each of the plurality of indoor units (300, 400, 500).

[0187] The above multiple indoor units may include a first indoor unit (300), a second indoor unit (400), and a third indoor unit (500).

[0188] The above air conditioner (10) may include a compressor (110), a condenser (120), a first heat exchanger (131), a second heat exchanger (132), and an evaporator (141, 142). The above air conditioner (10) may further include an accumulator (180).

[0189] Each of the above-described components is connected by the refrigerant pipe (200), and the refrigerant can perform compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation operations while circulating through the refrigerant pipe (200).

[0190] The compressor (110) can compress a gaseous refrigerant into a high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant. The compressor (110) can include a constant-speed compressor that rotates at a constant speed to compress to a constant capacity, or an inverter compressor that can adjust the compression capacity by varying the rotation speed according to the load.

[0191] The gas-liquid separator (180) may be connected to the suction side of the compressor (110).

[0192] The above-mentioned gas-liquid separator (190) may be configured to filter out liquid refrigerant among the refrigerant sucked into the compressor (110) and send the separated gas-phase refrigerant to the compressor (110).

[0193] The condenser (120) can be connected to the discharge side of the compressor (110).

[0194] The condenser (120) may receive and condense the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (110). The refrigerant introduced into the condenser (120) may be completely or partially condensed. As a result, the refrigerant discharged from the condenser (120) may be a high-temperature, high-pressure saturated liquid refrigerant or a high-temperature, high-pressure two-phase refrigerant. The condenser (120) may be provided so that air and the refrigerant exchange heat.

[0195] The above compressor (110), condenser (120), and gas-liquid separator (180) can be understood as components constituting the outdoor unit (100). That is, the compressor (110), condenser (120), and gas-liquid separator (180) can be arranged inside the outdoor unit (100).

[0196] A condensation fan (125) may be installed on one side of the condenser (120). The condensation fan (125) may blow air into the condenser (120).

[0197] For example, the condenser (120) may be configured as an outdoor heat exchanger of the outdoor unit (100). At this time, the condensing fan (125) is configured as an outdoor unit fan and can perform heat exchange by blowing outside air into the condenser (120).

[0198] The first heat exchanger (131) may be placed on the outlet side of the above condenser (120).

[0199] The first heat exchanger (131) is connected to the outlet side of the condenser (120), and refrigerant condensed in the condenser (120) can be introduced. The first heat exchanger (131) can be provided so that air and refrigerant can exchange heat. The first heat exchanger (131) can function as a condenser or an evaporator depending on the operating mode.

[0200] The above air conditioner (10) may further include a branch pipe (160) connected to the outlet side of the first heat exchanger (131).

[0201] The above branch pipe (160) can have the function of introducing refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (131) and distributing the introduced refrigerant to the second heat exchanger (132) and the evaporator (141, 142).

[0202] The inlet side of the branch pipe (160) is connected to the outlet side of the first heat exchanger (131), and the outlet side of the branch pipe (160) can be connected to the inlet side of the second heat exchanger (132) and the evaporator (141, 142).

[0203] The second heat exchanger (132) is connected to the outlet side of the branch pipe (160), and at least a portion of the refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (131) can be introduced therein. The second heat exchanger (132) may be provided so that air and the refrigerant can exchange heat. The second heat exchanger (132) may function as an evaporator.

[0204] An indoor unit fan (135) may be installed on one side of the first heat exchanger (131) and the second heat exchanger (132). The indoor unit fan (135) may blow air to the first heat exchanger (131) and the second heat exchanger (132).

[0205] For example, the first heat exchanger (131) and the second heat exchanger (132) may be configured as indoor heat exchangers of the indoor unit. When the indoor unit fan (135) operates, indoor air may first pass through the second heat exchanger (132) and then pass through the first heat exchanger (131).

[0206] The above air conditioner (10) may further include an expansion device (151) provided on the inlet side of the second heat exchanger (132). The refrigerant discharged from the branch pipe (160) may pass through the expansion device (151) and then flow into the second heat exchanger (132).

[0207] The above expansion device (151) may be configured as an electronic expansion valve (EEV) whose opening can be adjusted. The degree of pressure reduction of the refrigerant can be adjusted according to the opening adjustment of the expansion device (151).

[0208] The first heat exchanger (131), the second heat exchanger (132), and the expansion device (151) can be understood as components constituting one indoor unit (300). That is, the first heat exchanger (131), the second heat exchanger (132), and the expansion device (151) can be arranged inside the indoor unit (300).

[0209] When the indoor fan (135) operates, the air that has passed through the second heat exchanger (132) and has been cooled and has its humidity reduced can be partially heated as it passes through the first heat exchanger (131) and can be introduced into the room with its relative humidity reduced (constant temperature dehumidification effect). Therefore, the air that has passed through the second heat exchanger (132) and the first heat exchanger (131) can be introduced into the room in a cooled and dehumidified state.

[0210] This indoor unit (300) is an indoor unit that discharges constant temperature and dehumidified air, and can be called a “constant temperature and dehumidification indoor unit.”

[0211] The above first heat exchanger (131) may be called a “reheat coil”.

[0212] The above second heat exchanger (132) may be called a “dehumidification coil.”

[0213] The above evaporator (141, 142) is connected to the outlet side of the branch pipe (160), and the refrigerant discharged from the branch pipe (160) can be introduced and evaporated.

[0214] The above evaporator (141, 142) may include a plurality of evaporators (141, 142). The plurality of evaporators (141, 142) may include a first evaporator (141) and a second evaporator (142). The first evaporator (141) and the second evaporator (142) may be arranged in parallel. The first evaporator (141) and the second evaporator (142) may be provided so that air and refrigerant exchange heat.

[0215] A first evaporation fan (145) may be installed on one side of the first evaporator (141). The first evaporation fan (145) may blow air into the first evaporator (141).

[0216] For example, the first evaporator (141) may be configured as an indoor heat exchanger of an indoor unit. At this time, the first evaporator fan (145) is configured as an indoor unit fan and can perform heat exchange by blowing indoor air to the first evaporator (141).

[0217] A second evaporation fan (146) may be installed on one side of the second evaporator (142). The second evaporation fan (146) may blow air into the second evaporator (142).

[0218] For example, the second evaporator (142) may be configured as an indoor heat exchanger of the indoor unit. At this time, the second evaporator fan (146) is configured as an indoor unit fan and can perform heat exchange by blowing indoor air to the second evaporator (142).

[0219] The above air conditioner (10) may further include an indoor expansion device (147, 148) provided on the inlet side of the above evaporator (141, 142).

[0220] The above indoor expansion device (147, 148) may include a first indoor expansion device (147) provided on the inlet side of the first evaporator (141) and a second indoor expansion device (148) provided on the inlet side of the second evaporator (142).

[0221] The refrigerant discharged from the branch pipe (160) can pass through the first indoor expansion device (147) and the second indoor expansion device (148), respectively, and then flow into the first evaporator (141) and the second evaporator (142), respectively.

[0222] The first indoor expansion device (147) and the second indoor expansion device (148) may be configured as electronic expansion valves (EEVs) whose openings can be adjusted. The degree of depressurization of the refrigerant can be adjusted by adjusting the openings of the first indoor expansion device (147) and the second indoor expansion device (148).

[0223] When the air conditioner (10) is in the full-room cooling mode or the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode among the operation modes, the first indoor expansion device (147) and the second indoor expansion device (148) can be opened and closed to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant. Accordingly, the refrigerant discharged from the branch pipe (160) is reduced to a low pressure while passing through the first indoor expansion device (147) and the second indoor expansion device (148), and the reduced pressure refrigerant can be heat exchanged (evaporated) in the first evaporator (141) and the second evaporator (142), respectively.

[0224] When the air conditioner (10) operates in a standalone dehumidification mode, both the first indoor expansion device (147) and the second indoor expansion device (148) are closed, so that the refrigerant can be prevented from flowing into the first evaporator (141) and the second evaporator (142). That is, in the standalone dehumidification mode, the first evaporator (141) and the second evaporator (142) are not used.

[0225] The above first evaporator (141) and the above first indoor expansion device (147) can be understood as components constituting one indoor unit (400).

[0226] When the first evaporation fan (145) above operates, cooled air passing through the first evaporator (141) can be introduced into the room. This indoor unit (400) is an indoor unit that discharges cooled air and can be called a "first cooling indoor unit."

[0227] The above second evaporator (142) and the above second indoor expansion device (148) can be understood as components constituting one indoor unit (500).

[0228] When the second evaporation fan (146) operates, cooled air can be introduced into the room by passing through the second evaporator (142). This indoor unit (500) is an indoor unit that discharges cooled air and can be called a "second cooling indoor unit."

[0229] The above air conditioner (10) may further include a combined pipe (170) in which the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (132) and the evaporator (141, 142) is combined.

[0230] The above combined pipe (170) functions to combine the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (132) and the evaporator (141, 142) and send it to the compressor (110).

[0231] The outlet side of the above combined pipe (170) is connected to the inlet side of the above gas-liquid separator (180), and the inlet side of the above combined pipe (170) can be connected to the outlet side of the second heat exchanger (132) and the outlet side of the above evaporator (141, 142).

[0232] Meanwhile, the refrigerant pipe (200) may include a discharge pipe (205) that guides the refrigerant compressed in the compressor (110) to the condenser (120).

[0233] The above discharge pipe (205) can connect the discharge side of the compressor (110) and the inlet side of the condenser (120).

[0234] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a first connecting pipe (210) that guides the refrigerant condensed in the condenser (120) to the first heat exchanger (131).

[0235] The above first connecting pipe (210) can connect the outlet side of the condenser (120) and the inlet side of the first heat exchanger (131).

[0236] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a second connecting pipe (215) that guides the refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (131) to the combined pipe (160).

[0237] The above second connecting pipe (215) can connect the outlet side of the first heat exchanger (131) and the inlet side of the branch pipe (160).

[0238] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a third connecting pipe (220) that sends at least a portion of the refrigerant introduced into the branch pipe (160) to the second heat exchanger (132).

[0239] The third connecting pipe (220) can connect the outlet side of the branch pipe (160) and the inlet side of the second heat exchanger (132). The expansion device (151) can be installed in the third connecting pipe (220).

[0240] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a fourth connecting pipe (225) that sends the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (132) to the combined pipe (170).

[0241] The above fourth connecting pipe (225) can connect the outlet side of the second heat exchanger (132) and the inlet side of the combined pipe (170).

[0242] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a fifth connecting pipe (230) that sends at least a portion of the refrigerant introduced into the branch pipe (160) to the first evaporator (141).

[0243] The fifth connecting pipe (230) can connect the outlet side of the branch pipe (160) and the inlet side of the first evaporator (141). The first indoor expansion device (147) can be installed in the fifth connecting pipe (230).

[0244] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a sixth connecting pipe (235) that sends the refrigerant discharged from the first evaporator (141) to the combined pipe (170).

[0245] The above sixth connecting pipe (235) can connect the outlet side of the first evaporator (141) and the inlet side of the combined pipe (170).

[0246] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a seventh connecting pipe (240) that sends the remaining portion of the refrigerant flowing into the branch pipe (160) to the second evaporator (142).

[0247] The seventh connecting pipe (240) can connect the outlet side of the branch pipe (160) and the inlet side of the second evaporator (142). The second indoor expansion device (148) can be installed in the seventh connecting pipe (240).

[0248] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include an eighth connecting pipe (245) that sends the refrigerant discharged from the second evaporator (142) to the combined pipe (170).

[0249] The above-mentioned eighth connecting pipe (245) can connect the outlet side of the second evaporator (142) and the inlet side of the combined pipe (170).

[0250] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a ninth connecting pipe (250) that guides the refrigerant introduced into the combined pipe (170) to the gas-liquid separator (180).

[0251] The above refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a suction pipe (255) that guides the refrigerant discharged from the gas-liquid separator (180) to the suction side of the compressor (110).

[0252] Meanwhile, the refrigerant pipe (200) may further include a bypass pipe (260) that allows the refrigerant condensed in the condenser (120) to bypass the first heat exchanger (131).

[0253] The above bypass pipe (260) can be understood as a pipe that guides the refrigerant condensed in the condenser (120) to flow into the branch pipe (160) without passing through the first heat exchanger (131).

[0254] The bypass pipe (260) may be formed by connecting a point of the first connecting pipe (210) and a point of the second connecting pipe (215). That is, the bypass pipe (260) may be formed by connecting a pipe extending from the inlet side of the first heat exchanger (131) and a pipe extending from the outlet side of the first heat exchanger (131).

[0255] The above air conditioner (10) may further include a bypass valve (190) provided in the bypass pipe (260).

[0256] The above bypass valve (190) may be configured as an electronic expansion valve (EEV) whose opening can be adjusted. The degree of pressure reduction of the refrigerant can be adjusted according to the opening adjustment of the bypass valve (190).

[0257] When the air conditioner (10) is in the single dehumidification mode or the full room cooling dehumidification mode during operation, the bypass valve (190) is closed, so that the refrigerant can flow into the first heat exchanger (131) through the first connecting pipe (210). At this time, the refrigerant can be blocked from flowing into the bypass pipe (260).

[0258] When the air conditioner (10) is in the full-room cooling mode, the bypass valve (190) is fully open, allowing refrigerant to flow into the bypass pipe (260). At this time, the refrigerant can be blocked from flowing into the first heat exchanger (131). That is, the first heat exchanger (131) is not used in the full-room cooling mode.

[0259] The above air conditioner (10) can be operated in any one of the single dehumidification mode, the full-room cooling mode, and the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode.

[0260] The standalone dehumidification mode is a mode that uses only the constant temperature dehumidification indoor unit (300) and does not use the first cooling indoor unit (400) and the second cooling indoor unit (500), and air dehumidified at a constant temperature in the constant temperature dehumidification indoor unit (300) can be discharged.

[0261] The full-room cooling mode is a mode that uses all of the above-mentioned constant temperature dehumidification indoor unit (300), the above-mentioned first cooling indoor unit (400), and the above-mentioned second cooling indoor unit (500), and can be understood as a mode in which cooled air is discharged from all of the above-mentioned constant temperature dehumidification indoor unit (300), the above-mentioned first cooling indoor unit (400), and the above-mentioned second cooling indoor unit (500).

[0262] The full-room cooling and dehumidification mode is a mode that uses all of the constant temperature dehumidification indoor unit (300), the first cooling indoor unit (400), and the second cooling indoor unit (500), and can be understood as a mode in which constant temperature dehumidified air is discharged from the constant temperature dehumidification indoor unit (300), and cooled air is discharged from the first cooling indoor unit (400) and the second cooling indoor unit (500).

[0263] Figure 6 is a cycle diagram showing the refrigerant flow pattern when the air conditioner according to the second embodiment of the present invention is operated in the full-room cooling mode.

[0264] Referring to Fig. 6, when the air conditioner (10) is operated in the full-room cooling mode, the first heat exchanger (131) does not circulate refrigerant, and the second heat exchanger (132) can function as an evaporator.

[0265] In the full-room cooling mode, the expansion device (151) is opened and controlled to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant, and the bypass valve (190) can be fully opened.

[0266] At this time, the opening of the first indoor expansion device (147) and the second indoor expansion device (148) can be adjusted so that the pressure of the refrigerant can be reduced. Accordingly, the refrigerant circulates through the second heat exchanger (132), the first evaporator (141), and the second evaporator (142), but does not circulate through the first heat exchanger (131). That is, the first heat exchanger (131) is not used in the full-room cooling mode.

[0267] Specifically, the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant discharged from the gas-liquid separator (180) may be compressed by flowing into the compressor (110) through the suction pipe (255). The compressed refrigerant may become a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant.

[0268] The refrigerant compressed in the compressor (110) may be introduced into the condenser (120) through the discharge pipe (205) and condensed. At this time, the refrigerant introduced into the condenser (120) may be condensed to become a high-temperature, high-pressure, subcooled liquid refrigerant.

[0269] The refrigerant discharged from the condenser (120) can flow into the bypass pipe (260) through the first connecting pipe (210). The refrigerant flowing into the bypass pipe (260) can be bypassed to the second connecting pipe (215) by passing through the bypass valve (190). That is, the refrigerant does not flow into the interior of the first heat exchanger (131), but can be bypassed from the inlet side to the outlet side of the first heat exchanger (131). The refrigerant bypassed to the second connecting pipe (215) can flow into the branch pipe (160).

[0270] Some of the refrigerant introduced into the branch pipe (160) may be introduced into the expansion device (151) along the third connecting pipe (220), depressurized, and then evaporated in the second heat exchanger (132). In addition, the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (132) may be introduced into the combined pipe (170) along the fourth connecting pipe (225).

[0271] Another portion of the refrigerant introduced into the branch pipe (160) may be introduced into the first indoor expansion device (147) along the fifth connecting pipe (230), depressurized, and then evaporated in the first evaporator (141). The refrigerant discharged from the first evaporator (141) may be introduced into the combined pipe (170) along the sixth connecting pipe (235).

[0272] The remaining portion of the refrigerant introduced into the branch pipe (160) may be introduced into the second indoor expansion device (148) along the seventh connecting pipe (240), depressurized, and then evaporated in the second evaporator (142). The refrigerant discharged from the second evaporator (142) may be introduced into the combined pipe (170) along the eighth connecting pipe (245).

[0273] The refrigerant introduced into the above-mentioned combined pipe (170) is combined and then introduced into the gas-liquid separator (180) through the ninth connecting pipe (250). The gas-phase refrigerant separated by passing through the gas-liquid separator (180) can be sucked into the compressor (110) through the suction pipe (255).

[0274] This circulation of refrigerant can be repeated.

[0275] Figure 7 is a cycle diagram showing the refrigerant flow when the air conditioner according to the second embodiment of the present invention operates in a single dehumidification mode.

[0276] Referring to Fig. 7, when the air conditioner (10) is operated in a single dehumidification mode, the first heat exchanger (131) can function as a condenser and the second heat exchanger (132) can function as an evaporator.

[0277] In the single dehumidification mode, the expansion device (151) is opened and controlled to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant, and the bypass valve (190) can be closed.

[0278] At this time, the first indoor expansion device (147) and the second indoor expansion device (148) can be closed. Accordingly, the refrigerant circulates through the first heat exchanger (131) and the second heat exchanger (132), but does not circulate through the first evaporator (141) and the second evaporator (142). That is, in the single dehumidification mode, the first evaporator (141) and the second evaporator (142) are not used.

[0279] Specifically, the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant discharged from the gas-liquid separator (180) may be compressed by flowing into the compressor (110) through the suction pipe (255). The compressed refrigerant may become a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant.

[0280] The refrigerant compressed in the compressor (110) may be introduced into the condenser (120) through the discharge pipe (205) and condensed. At this time, the refrigerant introduced into the condenser (120) may be partially condensed to become a high-temperature, high-pressure, two-phase refrigerant.

[0281] For example, the frequency of the compressor (110) may be controlled and the rotation speed of the condensing fan (125) may be controlled so that the refrigerant discharged from the condenser (120) becomes a two-phase refrigerant. The two-phase refrigerant discharged from the condenser (120) may be introduced into the first heat exchanger (131) along the first connecting pipe (210) and further condensed. The condensed refrigerant may become a high-temperature, high-pressure saturated liquid refrigerant.

[0282] The refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (131) can be introduced into the branch pipe (160) along the second connecting pipe (215).

[0283] The refrigerant introduced into the branch pipe (160) may be introduced into the expansion device (151) along the third connecting pipe (220), depressurized, and then evaporated in the second heat exchanger (132). In addition, the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (132) may be introduced into the combined pipe (170) along the fourth connecting pipe (225).

[0284] Here, since the first indoor expansion device (147) and the second indoor expansion device (148) are closed, the refrigerant flowing into the branch pipe (160) can be blocked from flowing to the first evaporator (141) and the second evaporator (142).

[0285] The refrigerant introduced into the above-mentioned joint pipe (170) flows into the gas-liquid separator (180) along the ninth connecting pipe (250). The gaseous refrigerant separated by passing through the gas-liquid separator (180) can be sucked into the compressor (110) through the suction pipe (255).

[0286] This circulation of refrigerant can be repeated.

[0287] Figure 8 is a cycle diagram showing the refrigerant flow when the air conditioner according to the second embodiment of the present invention is operated in the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode.

[0288] Referring to Fig. 8, when the air conditioner (10) is operated in the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode, the first heat exchanger (131) can function as a condenser and the second heat exchanger (132) can function as an evaporator.

[0289] In the single dehumidification mode, the expansion device (151) is opened and controlled to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant, and the bypass valve (190) can be closed.

[0290] At this time, the opening of the first indoor expansion device (147) and the second indoor expansion device (148) can be adjusted to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant. Accordingly, the refrigerant can circulate through the first heat exchanger (131), the second heat exchanger (132), the first evaporator (141), and the second evaporator (142).

[0291] Specifically, the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant discharged from the gas-liquid separator (180) may be compressed by flowing into the compressor (110) through the suction pipe (255). The compressed refrigerant may become a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant.

[0292] The refrigerant compressed in the compressor (110) may be introduced into the condenser (120) through the discharge pipe (205) and condensed. At this time, the refrigerant introduced into the condenser (120) may be partially condensed to become a high-temperature, high-pressure, two-phase refrigerant.

[0293] For example, the frequency of the compressor (110) may be controlled and the rotation speed of the condensing fan (125) may be controlled so that the refrigerant discharged from the condenser (120) becomes a two-phase refrigerant. The two-phase refrigerant discharged from the condenser (120) may be introduced into the first heat exchanger (131) along the first connecting pipe (210) and further condensed. The condensed refrigerant may become a high-temperature, high-pressure saturated liquid refrigerant.

[0294] The refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (131) can be introduced into the branch pipe (160) along the second connecting pipe (215).

[0295] Some of the refrigerant introduced into the branch pipe (160) may be introduced into the expansion device (151) along the third connecting pipe (220), depressurized, and then evaporated in the second heat exchanger (132). In addition, the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (132) may be introduced into the combined pipe (170) along the fourth connecting pipe (225).

[0296] Another portion of the refrigerant introduced into the branch pipe (160) may be introduced into the first indoor expansion device (147) along the fifth connecting pipe (230), depressurized, and then evaporated in the first evaporator (141). The refrigerant discharged from the first evaporator (141) may be introduced into the combined pipe (170) along the sixth connecting pipe (235).

[0297] The remaining portion of the refrigerant introduced into the branch pipe (160) may be introduced into the second indoor expansion device (148) along the seventh connecting pipe (240), depressurized, and then evaporated in the second evaporator (142). The refrigerant discharged from the second evaporator (142) may be introduced into the combined pipe (170) along the eighth connecting pipe (245).

[0298] The refrigerant introduced into the above-mentioned combined pipe (170) is combined and then introduced into the gas-liquid separator (180) through the ninth connecting pipe (250). The gas-phase refrigerant separated by passing through the gas-liquid separator (180) can be sucked into the compressor (110) through the suction pipe (255).

[0299] This circulation of refrigerant can be repeated.

Claims

1. A compressor that compresses the refrigerant; A condenser that condenses the refrigerant compressed in the compressor into a two-phase refrigerant; A phase separator arranged on the outlet side of the above condenser and separating the two-phase refrigerant into a gaseous refrigerant and a liquid refrigerant; A first heat exchanger into which the gaseous refrigerant separated from the above-mentioned phase separator is introduced; A second heat exchanger arranged on the outlet side of the first heat exchanger; and An air conditioner including an evaporator into which liquid refrigerant separated from the above-mentioned phase separator is introduced.

2. In paragraph 1, A first expansion device arranged on the inlet side of the first heat exchanger; A second expansion device arranged on the inlet side of the second heat exchanger; and An air conditioner further comprising an indoor expansion device arranged on the inlet side of the evaporator.

3. In paragraph 2, An air conditioner in which the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger function as evaporators when the full-room cooling mode is performed among the operation modes of the air conditioner.

4. In paragraph 3, An air conditioner in which, when the room cooling mode is performed among the operation modes of the above air conditioner, the first expansion device and the indoor expansion device are opened and decompressed to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant, and the second expansion device is completely opened.

5. In paragraph 2, An air conditioner in which, when the single dehumidification mode is performed among the operation modes of the above air conditioner, the first heat exchanger functions as a condenser and the second heat exchanger functions as an evaporator.

6. In paragraph 5, An air conditioner in which, when the single dehumidification mode is performed among the operation modes of the above air conditioner, the first expansion device is completely opened, the opening of the second expansion device is adjusted to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant, and the indoor expansion device is closed.

7. In paragraph 2, An air conditioner in which, when the room cooling and dehumidification mode is performed among the operation modes of the above air conditioner, the first heat exchanger functions as a condenser and the second heat exchanger functions as an evaporator.

8. In paragraph 7, An air conditioner in which, when the room cooling and dehumidification mode is performed among the operation modes of the air conditioner, the first expansion device is completely opened, and the opening of the second expansion device and the indoor expansion device are adjusted so that the pressure of the refrigerant is reduced.

9. In paragraph 1, The above phase separator is, A case forming a space in which refrigerant is stored; An inlet connected to the above case and into which refrigerant flows; A first discharge unit connected to the above case and discharging gaseous refrigerant; A second discharge unit connected to the above case and discharging liquid refrigerant; and An air conditioner further comprising a gas-liquid separation pipe disposed inside the case and connected to the first discharge portion.

10. In paragraph 9, The above first discharge portion is provided at the upper part of the case, The above second discharge unit is an air conditioner provided at the lower part of the case.

11. In paragraph 9, The above first heat exchanger is provided in multiple units, An air conditioner in which a plurality of discharge ports are formed in the first discharge section to distribute the refrigerant of the case to the plurality of first heat exchangers.

12. In paragraph 9, The above evaporators are provided in multiple units, An air conditioner in which a plurality of discharge ports are formed in the second discharge section to distribute the refrigerant of the case to the plurality of evaporators.

13. Compressor for compressing refrigerant; A condenser that condenses the refrigerant compressed in the above compressor; A first heat exchanger arranged on the outlet side of the above condenser; A branch pipe arranged on the outlet side of the first heat exchanger; A second heat exchanger into which at least a portion of the refrigerant flowing into the above branch pipe flows; An evaporator in which some of the remaining refrigerant flowing into the branch pipe flows in and evaporates; A bypass pipe that connects a pipe extending from the inlet side of the first heat exchanger and a pipe extending from the outlet side of the first heat exchanger so that the refrigerant discharged from the condenser bypasses the first heat exchanger; and An air conditioner comprising a bypass valve installed in the above bypass pipe.

14. In paragraph 13, An expansion device arranged on the inlet side of the second heat exchanger; and An air conditioner further comprising an indoor expansion device arranged on the inlet side of the evaporator.

15. In paragraph 13, An air conditioner further comprising a combined pipe that combines the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger and the refrigerant discharged from the evaporator and guides the combined refrigerant to the compressor.

16. In paragraph 13, An air conditioner in which, when the full-room cooling mode is performed among the operation modes of the above air conditioner, the bypass valve is opened and the refrigerant condensed in the condenser flows into the combined pipe by bypassing the first heat exchanger.

17. In paragraph 14, An air conditioner in which, when the single dehumidification mode or the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode is performed among the operation modes of the above air conditioner, the bypass valve is closed and the refrigerant condensed in the condenser flows into the first heat exchanger.

18. In paragraph 17, An air conditioner in which, when the single dehumidification mode or the full-room cooling and dehumidification mode is performed among the operation modes of the above air conditioner, the first heat exchanger functions as a condenser and the second heat exchanger functions as an evaporator.

19. In paragraph 18, An air conditioner in which, when the single dehumidification mode is performed among the operation modes of the above air conditioner, the expansion device is opened and closed to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant, and the indoor expansion device is closed.

20. In paragraph 18, An air conditioner in which, when the room cooling and dehumidification mode is performed among the operation modes of the above air conditioner, the expansion device and the indoor expansion valve are opened and closed to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant.

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