Air conditioning system

Abstract

The air conditioning system may comprise: a housing having a pipe hole; a heat exchanger; a pipe connected to the heat exchanger and provided to allow a refrigerant or water to flow therethrough; and a pipe holder provided to fix the pipe to the housing. The pipe holder may include a holder frame which can be coupled to the pipe to surround an outer surface of the pipe, and is insertable into a pipe hole of the housing in a first direction. The pipe holder may include an elastic protrusion. The elastic protrusion may include a protrusion body elastically deformable with respect to the holder frame, and a protrusion portion protruding from the protrusion body in a second direction to pass through the pipe hole and interfere with the housing as the holder frame coupled to the pipe is inserted into the pipe hole.

Description

air conditioning system

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioning system.

[0002] Typically, heat naturally moves from high-temperature to low-temperature areas. However, to move heat from low-temperature areas to high-temperature areas, some external action is required. This is the principle of a heat pump. A heat pump utilizes the heat generated and recovered during the cycle of compression, condensation, and evaporation of a refrigerant to provide heating and cooling (air-to-air) and / or water supply (air-to-water).

[0003] For example, a multi-type heating and cooling device using a heat pump method (hereinafter referred to as an 'air conditioning system' or 'air conditioning unit') is composed of an outdoor unit, an indoor unit, a hydro unit, etc., and can perform indoor floor heating, hot water supply, and indoor air heating and cooling, etc.

[0004] An air conditioning system may include a plurality of pipes for heat exchange between refrigerants and / or between refrigerants and water. Each pipe may be attached to a product such as an outdoor unit, an indoor unit, or a hydro unit.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioning system with improved ease of use.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioning system that is easy to maintain.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioning system having a pipe holder that can easily secure a pipe to a housing.

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioning system having a pipe holder that allows the pipe to be easily separated from the housing.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioning system that does not require separate fastening components (e.g., screws) when securing piping.

[0010] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0011] An air conditioning system according to the invention may include a housing having a pipe hole; a heat exchanger; a pipe connected to the heat exchanger and configured to allow refrigerant or water to flow; and a pipe holder configured to secure the pipe to the housing. The pipe holder may include a holder frame that is coupled to the pipe so as to surround an outer surface of the pipe and that is insertable into the pipe hole of the housing in a first direction. The pipe holder may include an elastic protrusion. The elastic protrusion may include a protrusion body that is elastically deformable with respect to the holder frame. The elastic protrusion may include a protrusion that protrudes from the protrusion body in a second direction intersecting the first direction so as to pass through the pipe hole and interfere with the housing when the holder frame coupled to the pipe is inserted into the pipe hole.

[0012] An air conditioning system according to the invention may include an outdoor unit disposed outdoors; a heat load unit disposed indoors; and an indoor unit disposed indoors between the outdoor unit and the heat load unit and configured to supply water heated or cooled by heat energy obtained from the outdoor unit to the heat load unit. The indoor unit may include a housing; a pipe configured to guide refrigerant or water; and a pipe holder configured to detachably mount the pipe to the housing. The pipe holder may include a holder frame configured to surround an outer surface of the pipe. The pipe holder may include an elastic protrusion detachably coupled to the housing by being elastically deformed with respect to the holder frame.

[0013] A pipe holder according to the invention may be configured to secure a pipe designed to guide refrigerant or water to a housing. The pipe holder may include a holder frame configured to surround an outer surface of the pipe. The holder frame may include a first frame portion, a second frame portion detachably connectable to the first frame portion with the pipe interposed therebetween, and a bendable connecting portion between the first frame portion and the second frame portion. The pipe holder may include an elastic protrusion configured to be elastically deformable relative to the holder frame and detachably connectable to the housing.

[0014] Figure 1 schematically illustrates an air conditioning system according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 schematically illustrates an air conditioning system according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 3 illustrates an indoor unit of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 4 illustrates the lower part of the indoor unit illustrated in Figure 3.

[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates a portion of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 6 illustrates a portion of the air conditioning system illustrated in Figure 5 from another direction.

[0020] Figure 7 illustrates the lower portion of a portion of the air conditioning system illustrated in Figure 5.

[0021] Figure 8 is an exploded view of a portion of the air conditioning system illustrated in Figure 5.

[0022] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a pipe holder according to one embodiment.

[0023] Figure 10 illustrates the inside of a pipe holder in an unfolded state according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 11 illustrates the upper side of the pipe holder in an unfolded state according to one embodiment.

[0025] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a pipe holder according to one embodiment.

[0026] Figure 13 shows an example of a state before the pipe and the pipe holder are combined.

[0027] Figure 14 shows an example of a state in which a pipe and a pipe holder are combined.

[0028] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' shown in Figure 14.

[0029] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' shown in Fig. 14.

[0030] Figure 17 illustrates an example of a process in which a housing and a drain member are joined.

[0031] Figure 18 illustrates an example of the process of securing a pipe to a housing.

[0032] Figure 19 illustrates an example of a state in which the pipe is fixed to the housing in Figure 18.

[0033] Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC' shown in Fig. 19.

[0034] Figure 21 is an enlarged view of part A shown in Figure 20.

[0035] Figure 22 shows an example of the process of securing a pipe to a housing.

[0036] Figure 23 shows an example of a state in which the pipe is fixed to the housing in Figure 22.

[0037] Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line DD' shown in Fig. 23.

[0038] Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE' shown in Figure 23.

[0039] FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment.

[0040] Figure 27 illustrates an example of a process in which multiple pipes are secured to a housing.

[0041] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0042] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0043] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0044] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0045] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0046] The terms "part," "module," and "member" may be implemented in hardware or software. Depending on the embodiments, multiple "parts," "modules," or "members" may be implemented as a single component, or a single "part," "module," or "member" may include multiple components.

[0047] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0048] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0049] The terms "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0050] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0051] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0052] An air conditioner according to various embodiments is a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling or heating in an air-conditioned space (hereinafter referred to as “indoor”), and means a device equipped with at least one of these functions.

[0053] In one embodiment, an air conditioner may include a heat pump device to perform a cooling function or a heating function. The heat pump device may include a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant circulates along a compressor, a first heat exchanger, an expansion device, and a second heat exchanger. All components of the heat pump device may be housed in a single housing forming the exterior of the air conditioner, such as a window air conditioner or a portable air conditioner. On the other hand, some components of the heat pump device may be housed separately in multiple housings forming a single air conditioner, such as a wall-mounted air conditioner, a stand-alone air conditioner, and a system air conditioner.

[0054] An air conditioner including a plurality of housings may include at least one outdoor unit installed outdoors and at least one indoor unit installed indoors. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit and one indoor unit are connected via a refrigerant pipe. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units are connected via a plurality of refrigerant pipes.

[0055] The outdoor unit can be electrically connected to the indoor unit. For example, information (or commands) for controlling the air conditioner can be input through an input interface provided on the outdoor or indoor unit, and the outdoor and indoor units can operate simultaneously or sequentially in response to user input.

[0056] The air conditioner may include an outdoor heat exchanger provided in the outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger provided in the indoor unit, and a refrigerant pipe connecting the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0057] An outdoor heat exchanger can utilize a phase change (e.g., evaporation or condensation) of the refrigerant to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the outdoor air. For example, while the refrigerant condenses in the outdoor heat exchanger, it releases heat to the outdoor air, and while the refrigerant flowing in the outdoor heat exchanger evaporates, it absorbs heat from the outdoor air.

[0058] Indoor units are installed indoors. For example, indoor units can be categorized into ceiling-mounted, stand-alone, and wall-mounted types depending on their placement. For example, ceiling-mounted indoor units can be categorized into four-way, one-way, and duct-type indoor units depending on how air is discharged.

[0059] Similarly, an indoor heat exchanger can utilize the phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation) to exchange heat between the refrigerant and indoor air. For example, while the refrigerant evaporates in the indoor unit, the refrigerant can absorb heat from the indoor air. The cooled indoor air can then be blown through the cooled indoor heat exchanger, thereby cooling the room. Furthermore, while the refrigerant condenses in the indoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant can release heat to the indoor air. By blowing the heated indoor air through the high-temperature indoor heat exchanger, the room can be heated.

[0060] That is, the air conditioner performs a cooling or heating function through a phase change process of the refrigerant circulating between the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger. To circulate the refrigerant, the air conditioner may include a compressor that compresses the refrigerant. The compressor can suck in refrigerant gas through the suction port and compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor can discharge the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant gas through the discharge port. The compressor may be placed inside the outdoor unit.

[0061] The refrigerant may circulate through the refrigerant pipe in the order of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an indoor heat exchanger, or in the order of a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0062] For example, if an air conditioner has one outdoor unit and one indoor unit directly connected through a refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant may be arranged to circulate between one outdoor unit and one indoor unit through the refrigerant pipe.

[0063] For example, in an air conditioner, if one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant can flow to multiple indoor units via refrigerant pipes branching from the outdoor unit. The refrigerant discharged from the multiple indoor units can be combined and circulated to the outdoor unit. For example, multiple indoor units can be directly connected in parallel to a single outdoor unit via separate refrigerant pipes.

[0064] Multiple indoor units can operate independently, each according to a user-defined operating mode. That is, some indoor units can operate in cooling mode, while others operate in heating mode. In this case, the refrigerant can be selectively introduced into each indoor unit at either high or low pressure along a designated circulation path via a flow-through valve, described later, and then discharged to the outdoor unit for circulation.

[0065] For example, when an air conditioner has two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units connected through multiple refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant discharged from the multiple outdoor units may merge and flow through a single refrigerant pipe, then branch off again at some point and flow into multiple indoor units.

[0066] Multiple outdoor units may all be operated, or at least some may not be operated, depending on the operating load of the multiple indoor units. In this case, the refrigerant may be introduced into the outdoor unit, which is selectively operated, through a flow switching valve and circulated there. The air conditioner may include an expansion device to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the heat exchanger. For example, the expansion device may be located within the indoor unit, the outdoor unit, or both.

[0067] An expansion device can, for example, utilize a throttling effect to lower the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. The expansion device may include an orifice capable of reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path. Refrigerant passing through the orifice may experience a decrease in temperature and pressure.

[0068] The expansion device may be implemented as, for example, an electronic expansion valve capable of controlling the opening ratio (the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path when partially open to the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path when fully open). Depending on the opening ratio of the electronic expansion valve, the amount of refrigerant passing through the expansion device can be controlled.

[0069] The air conditioner may further include a flow diverter valve positioned along the refrigerant circulation path. The flow diverter valve may include, for example, a four-way valve. The flow diverter valve may determine the refrigerant circulation path depending on the indoor unit's operating mode (e.g., cooling operation or heating operation). The flow diverter valve may be connected to the discharge port of the compressor.

[0070] The air conditioner may include an accumulator. The accumulator may be connected to the suction port of the compressor. The accumulator may receive low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant vaporized in an indoor heat exchanger or an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0071] The accumulator can separate the refrigerant liquid from the refrigerant gas when a refrigerant mixture of refrigerant liquid and refrigerant gas is introduced, and provide the refrigerant gas from which the refrigerant liquid has been separated to the compressor.

[0072] An outdoor fan may be installed near the outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor fan may blow outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger to promote heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air.

[0073] The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include at least one sensor. For example, the sensor of the outdoor unit may be provided as an environmental sensor. The outdoor unit sensor may be positioned at any location inside or outside the outdoor unit. For example, the outdoor unit sensor may include a temperature sensor for detecting the air temperature around the outdoor unit, a humidity sensor for detecting the air humidity around the outdoor unit, a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting the refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit, or a refrigerant pressure sensor for detecting the refrigerant pressure of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

[0074] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may be configured to receive a control signal from a control unit of an indoor unit of the air conditioner, which will be described later. The outdoor unit may control the operation of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, a flow switching valve, an accumulator, or an outdoor fan based on the control signal received through the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit may transmit a sensing value detected by an outdoor unit sensor to the control unit of the indoor unit through the outdoor unit communication unit.

[0075] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a housing, a blower for circulating air into or out of the housing, and an indoor heat exchanger for exchanging heat with air flowing into the interior of the housing.

[0076] The housing may include an intake port through which indoor air may be drawn into the interior of the housing.

[0077] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a filter that is provided to filter foreign substances in the air that flows into the housing through the intake port.

[0078] The housing may include an exhaust port. Air flowing within the housing may be discharged to the exterior of the housing through the exhaust port.

[0079] The housing of the indoor unit may be provided with an airflow guide that guides the direction of air discharged through the exhaust port. For example, the airflow guide may include blades positioned above the exhaust port. For example, the airflow guide may include an auxiliary fan for controlling the exhaust airflow. However, the airflow guide is not limited thereto and may be omitted.

[0080] An indoor heat exchanger and a blower may be provided inside the housing of the indoor unit, which are arranged on a path connecting the intake and exhaust ports.

[0081] Blowers may include indoor fans and fan motors. For example, indoor fans may include axial fans, diffusion fans, crossflow fans, and centrifugal fans.

[0082] An indoor heat exchanger may be positioned between the blower and the exhaust, or between the intake and the blower. The indoor heat exchanger may absorb heat from air drawn in through the intake or transfer heat to the air drawn in through the intake. The indoor heat exchanger may include heat exchange tubes through which refrigerant flows, and heat exchange fins in contact with the heat exchange tubes to increase the heat transfer surface area.

[0083] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a drain tray positioned below the indoor heat exchanger to collect condensate generated in the indoor heat exchanger. The condensate collected in the drain tray may be drained to the outside through a drain hose. The drain tray may be provided to support the indoor heat exchanger.

[0084] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an input interface. The input interface may include any type of user input means, including buttons, switches, a touch screen, and / or a touch pad. The user can directly input setting data (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operating mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, outlet selection settings, and / or air flow settings) through the input interface.

[0085] The input interface may also be connected to an external input device. For example, the input interface may be electrically connected to a wired remote controller. The wired remote controller may be installed at a specific location in an indoor space (e.g., a portion of a wall). A user may input configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner by operating the wired remote controller. Electrical signals corresponding to the configuration data obtained through the wired remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface. In addition, the input interface may include an infrared sensor. A user may remotely input configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner using the wireless remote controller. The configuration data input through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

[0086] Additionally, the input interface may include a microphone. A user's voice command may be acquired through the microphone. The microphone may convert the user's voice command into an electrical signal and transmit the converted electrical signal to an indoor unit control unit. The indoor unit control unit may control components of the air conditioner to execute a function corresponding to the user's voice command. Setting data acquired through the input interface (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operation mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, outlet selection settings, and / or air volume settings) may be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit, which will be described later. In one example, the setting data acquired through the input interface may be transmitted externally, i.e., to an outdoor unit or a server, through an indoor unit communication unit, which will be described later.

[0087] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a power module. The power module may be connected to an external power source to supply power to the components of the indoor unit.

[0088] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an indoor unit sensor. The indoor unit sensor may be an environmental sensor positioned in a space inside or outside the housing. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include one or more temperature sensors and / or humidity sensors positioned in a predetermined space inside or outside the housing of the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting a refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include respective refrigerant temperature sensors for detecting the inlet, middle, and / or outlet temperatures of the refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor heat exchanger.

[0089] For example, each environmental information detected by an indoor unit sensor can be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit described later or transmitted externally through the indoor unit communication unit described later.

[0090] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit communication unit. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one antenna for wireless communication with other devices. The outdoor unit may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may also include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module.

[0091] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0092] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0093] The indoor unit communication unit can communicate with external devices such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances through a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the air conditioner or user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The air conditioner or user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit control unit that controls components of the indoor unit, including a blower, etc. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit control unit that controls components of the outdoor unit, including a compressor, etc. The indoor unit control unit can communicate with the outdoor unit control unit through the indoor unit communication unit and the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit can transmit control signals generated by the outdoor unit control unit to the indoor unit communication unit, or transmit control signals transmitted from the indoor unit communication unit to the outdoor unit control unit. In other words, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit can communicate bidirectionally. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit can transmit and receive various signals generated during the operation of the air conditioner.

[0094] The outdoor unit control unit can be electrically connected to components of the outdoor unit and can control the operation of each component. For example, the outdoor unit control unit can adjust the frequency of the compressor and control the flow switching valve to change the circulation direction of the refrigerant. The outdoor unit control unit can adjust the rotation speed of the outdoor fan. In addition, the outdoor unit control unit can generate a control signal to adjust the opening degree of the expansion valve. Under the control of the outdoor unit control unit, the refrigerant can circulate along a refrigerant circulation circuit including the compressor, the flow switching valve, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion valve, and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0095] The various temperature sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected temperatures to the outdoor unit control unit and / or the indoor unit control unit. For example, the humidity sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected humidity to the outdoor unit control unit and / or the indoor unit control unit.

[0096] The indoor unit control unit can obtain user input from a user device, including a mobile device, via the indoor unit communication unit, and can obtain user input directly through the input interface or via a remote controller. The indoor unit control unit can control components of the indoor unit, including a blower, in response to the received user input. The indoor unit control unit can transmit information regarding the received user input to the outdoor unit control unit of the outdoor unit.

[0097] The outdoor unit control unit can control the components of the outdoor unit, including the compressor, based on information regarding user input received from the indoor unit. For example, when a control signal corresponding to a user input for selecting an operation mode, such as cooling operation, heating operation, ventilation operation, defrosting operation, or dehumidification operation, is received from the indoor unit, the outdoor unit control unit can control the components of the outdoor unit so that the air conditioner performs an operation corresponding to the selected operation mode.

[0098] The outdoor unit control unit and the indoor unit control unit may each include a processor and a memory. The indoor unit control unit may include at least one first processor and at least one first memory, and the outdoor unit control unit may include at least one second processor and at least one second memory.

[0099] The memory can store / remember various information necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. The memory can store instructions, applications, data, and / or programs necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. For example, the memory can store various programs for the cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and / or defrosting operations of the air conditioner. The memory can include volatile memory such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory can include non-volatile memory such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) for long-term storage of data.

[0100] The processor can generate control signals for controlling the operation of the air conditioner based on instructions, applications, data, and / or programs stored in memory. The processor, as hardware, may include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor can process data according to programs and / or instructions provided from the memory and generate control signals based on the processing results. The memory and the processor may be implemented as a single control circuit or as multiple circuits.

[0101] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an output interface. The output interface is electrically connected to the indoor unit control unit and can output information related to the operation of the air conditioner under the control of the indoor unit control unit. For example, information such as an operating mode selected by a user input, wind direction, wind volume, and temperature may be output. Additionally, the output interface may output sensing information obtained from an indoor unit sensor or an outdoor unit sensor, as well as warning / error messages.

[0102] The output interface may include a display and a speaker. The speaker, as an audio device, can output various sounds. The display may display information input by the user or information provided to the user using various graphic elements. For example, operation information of an air conditioner may be displayed as at least an image or text. The display may also include an indicator that provides specific information. The display may include a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), a light emitting diode panel (LED), an organic light emitting diode panel (OLED), a micro LED panel, and / or a plurality of LEDs.

[0103] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0104] Figure 1 schematically illustrates an air conditioning system according to one embodiment. Figure 2 schematically illustrates an air conditioning system according to one embodiment.

[0105] An air conditioning system (1) may refer to a system (device) capable of performing indoor heating, indoor cooling, indoor floor heating, and / or hot water supply through heat exchange between air and a refrigerant, heat exchange between refrigerants, and / or heat exchange between a refrigerant and water. The air conditioning system (1) may be referred to as an air conditioner (1).

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the air conditioning system (1) may include an outdoor unit (10) and at least one indoor unit (20 and / or 30). The air conditioning system (1) may further include at least one heat load unit (40).

[0107] The air conditioning system (1) may include an outdoor unit (10). The outdoor unit (10) may be placed outdoors (O). The outdoor unit (10) may supply refrigerant that has exchanged heat with outdoor air to at least one indoor unit (20 and / or 30).

[0108] The air conditioning system (1) may include a compressor (13). The compressor (13) may be provided as a component of the outdoor unit (10). The compressor (13) may compress a refrigerant. The compressor (13) may compress a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant sucked in through an inlet side (13a) to form a high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant, and then discharge the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant through an outlet side (13b). The inlet side (13a) of the compressor (13) may be connected to an accumulator (14). The outlet side (13b) of the compressor (13) may be connected to a flow switching valve (15). The compressor (13) may be configured as an inverter compressor whose compression capacity varies depending on an input frequency, or may be configured as a combination of a plurality of fixed-speed compressors whose compression capacity is constant. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above, and the compressor (13) may be provided as various types of compressors known in the art.

[0109] The air conditioning system (1) may include an accumulator (14). The accumulator (14) may be provided as a component of the outdoor unit (10). The accumulator (14) may be installed between the inlet side (13a) of the compressor (13) and the flow switching valve (15). The accumulator (14) may temporarily store a mixture of oil and refrigerant when condensed liquid refrigerant flows in through the flow switching valve (15), and may separate the non-vaporized liquid refrigerant. Accordingly, the accumulator (14) may prevent damage to the compressor (13) by preventing the liquid refrigerant from being sucked into the compressor (13). The gas refrigerant separated in the accumulator (14) may be sucked into the inlet side (13a) of the compressor (13).

[0110] The air conditioning system (1) may include a flow switching valve (15). The flow switching valve (15) may be provided as a component of the outdoor unit (10). The flow switching valve (15) may be configured as a four-way valve, and switches the flow of refrigerant discharged from the compressor (13) according to the operating mode (cooling or heating), thereby forming a refrigerant flow path required for operation in the corresponding mode.

[0111] The air conditioning system (1) may include a first heat exchanger (11). The first heat exchanger (11) may be provided as a component of the outdoor unit (10). The first heat exchanger (11) may be referred to as an outdoor heat exchanger (11). The first heat exchanger (11) may be provided to exchange heat between outdoor air and a refrigerant. In a cooling mode of the air conditioning system (1), the first heat exchanger (11) may operate as a condenser. In a heating mode of the air conditioning system (1), the first heat exchanger (11) may operate as an evaporator. The first heat exchanger (11) may be arranged between a flow switching valve (15) and an outdoor expansion valve (16).

[0112] The air conditioning system (1) may include an outdoor fan (12). The outdoor fan (12) may be provided as a component of the outdoor unit (10). The outdoor fan (12) may be positioned adjacent to the first heat exchanger (11) to increase the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant in the first heat exchanger (11) and the outdoor air.

[0113] The air conditioning system (1) may include an outdoor expansion valve (16). The outdoor expansion valve (16) may be provided as a component of the outdoor unit (10). The outdoor expansion valve (16) may expand refrigerant. The outdoor expansion valve (16) may control the flow rate of the refrigerant and, if necessary, may block the flow of the refrigerant. For example, the outdoor expansion valve (16) may be configured as an electronic expansion valve.

[0114] The air conditioning system (1) may include a first indoor unit (20). The first indoor unit (20) may be placed in the room (I). The first indoor unit (20) may cool or heat the room (I) through heat exchange between indoor air and a refrigerant. Although FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a single first indoor unit (20), the air conditioning system (1) may also include a plurality of first indoor units (20).

[0115] The first indoor unit (20) may be referred to as a heating and cooling device (20).

[0116] The air conditioning system (1) may include a second heat exchanger (21). The second heat exchanger (21) may be provided as a component of the first indoor unit (20). The second heat exchanger (21) may be referred to as an indoor heat exchanger (21). The second heat exchanger (21) may be provided to exchange heat between indoor air and a refrigerant. In the cooling mode of the air conditioning system (1), the second heat exchanger (21) may operate as an evaporator. In the heating mode of the air conditioning system (1), the second heat exchanger (21) may operate as a condenser.

[0117] The air conditioning system (1) may include an indoor fan (22). The indoor fan (22) may be provided as a component of the first indoor unit (20). The indoor fan (22) may be positioned adjacent to the second heat exchanger (21) to increase the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant in the second heat exchanger (21) and the indoor air.

[0118] The air conditioning system (1) may include an indoor expansion valve (23). The indoor expansion valve (23) may be provided as a component of the indoor unit (20). The indoor expansion valve (23) may expand refrigerant. The indoor expansion valve (23) may control the flow rate of the refrigerant and, if necessary, block the flow of the refrigerant. For example, the indoor expansion valve (23) may be configured as an electronic expansion valve.

[0119] In the drawing, the air conditioning system (1) is depicted as having both an outdoor expansion valve (16) and an indoor expansion valve (23), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In some cases, the air conditioning system (1) may be equipped with only one of the outdoor expansion valve (16) and the indoor expansion valve (23).

[0120] The air conditioning system (1) may include a second indoor unit (30). The second indoor unit (30) may be placed indoors (I). The second indoor unit (30) may be arranged to supply water heated or cooled through heat exchange between a refrigerant and water to a heat load unit (40). The second indoor unit (30) may be placed between the outdoor unit (10) and the heat load unit (40). The second indoor unit (30) may supply water heated or cooled through heat energy obtained from the outdoor unit (10) to the heat load unit (40). For example, the second indoor unit (30) can receive hot water (or cold water) generated from the outdoor unit (10) and supply it to the heat load unit (40), or directly generate hot water (or cold water) by heat-exchanging water and refrigerant flowing in from the outdoor unit (10), and then supply the generated hot water (or cold water) to the heat load unit (40).

[0121] The second indoor unit (30) may be referred to as a hydro unit (30).

[0122] The air conditioning system (1) may include a third heat exchanger (31). The third heat exchanger (31) may be configured to exchange heat between a refrigerant and water. The third heat exchanger (31) may generate hot water (or cold water) through heat exchange between the refrigerant and water. For example, the third heat exchanger (31) may be configured as a plate heat exchanger, and heat exchange plates through which the refrigerant passes and heat exchange plates through which water passes may be alternately installed inside the third heat exchanger (31). The hot water (or cold water) generated in the third heat exchanger (31) may be provided to a water tank (33) and a heat load unit (40).

[0123] Although the drawing shows the third heat exchanger (31) as being a component of the second indoor unit (30), the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The third heat exchanger (31) may also be provided as a component of the outdoor unit (10).

[0124] The air conditioning system (1) may include a pump (32). The second indoor unit (30) may include a pump (32). The pump (32) may pump water flowing through the water pipe (W) to the third heat exchanger (31). The water may pass through the third heat exchanger (31) by the pumping force of the pump (32). A strainer (not shown) may be provided on the upstream side of the pump (32). The strainer may be provided to filter out foreign substances contained in the water flowing toward the pump (32).

[0125] The air conditioning system (1) may include a water tank (33). The water tank (33) may be provided to accommodate water that has exchanged heat with a refrigerant. The water tank (33) may be provided to store hot water (or cold water) generated in the third heat exchanger (31).

[0126] Although the drawing shows the water tank (33) as a component of the second indoor unit (30), the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The water tank (33) may be provided as a component separate from the second indoor unit (30) and placed indoors (I).

[0127] The air conditioning system (1) may include a heater (34). The heater (34) may be used as an auxiliary heat source. For example, the heater (34) may be provided to heat water flowing toward the heat load unit (40). The heater (34) may be provided as a component of the second indoor unit (30). However, the heater (34) is not a required component and may be omitted.

[0128] The air conditioning system (1) may include at least one heat load unit (40). The at least one heat load unit (40) may be placed in a room (I). The at least one heat load unit (40) may be placed in a space / device that requires hot air (or cold air). The heat load unit (40) may receive hot water (or cold water) from a second indoor unit (30). For example, the at least one heat load unit (40) may include at least one of a radiator, a water supply device, a floor heating device, and a fan coil unit.

[0129] The air conditioning system (1) may include a refrigerant cycle in which refrigerant circulates and / or a water cycle in which water circulates. The air conditioning system (1) may include a pipe (50) to form a circulation cycle. The air conditioning system (1) may include a refrigerant pipe (R) provided to allow refrigerant to flow and / or a water pipe (W) provided to allow water to flow. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, at least one pipe provided to guide refrigerant or water may be referred to as a pipe (50).

[0130] Fig. 3 illustrates an indoor unit of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment. Fig. 4 illustrates a lower portion of the indoor unit illustrated in Fig. 3.

[0131] For convenience of explanation, an example in which a pipe (50) is fixed to a second indoor unit (30) is illustrated with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the example illustrated in the drawings, and the pipe (50) may be fixed to various devices / configurations constituting the air conditioning system (1). The pipe (50) may be fixed to an outdoor unit (10), a first indoor unit (20), a heat load unit (40), other devices (products), etc. The housing (100) of the second indoor unit (30) described below may, of course, be replaced with a description of the housing of the outdoor unit (10), the first indoor unit (20), the heat load unit (40), other devices (products), etc.

[0132] The air conditioning system (1) may include a housing (100). For example, the housing (100) may be provided as a component of the second indoor unit (30). The housing (100) may form the overall exterior of the second indoor unit (30). The housing (100) may be provided to accommodate components of the second indoor unit (30), etc. The housing (100) may be provided to accommodate a pump (32), a strainer (not shown), a third heat exchanger (31), a heater (34), and a water tank (33). However, as described above, for example, the housing (100) may be a housing of an outdoor unit (10), a housing of a first indoor unit (20), a housing of a heat load unit (40), or a housing of another device (product). The housing (100) may include an exterior of a product into which a pipe (50) may be installed.

[0133] The housing (100) may have a roughly box shape. The housing (100) may have a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape. For example, the housing (100) may be formed by assembling a plurality of panels. For example, the housing (100) may include a top panel (111), a bottom panel (112), a front panel (113), side panels (114) on both sides, and a rear panel.

[0134] The housing (100) may be referred to as a cabinet, case, etc.

[0135] The air conditioning system (1) may include a pipe (50). The pipe (50) may be configured to allow refrigerant or water to flow. The pipe (50) may be configured to guide the refrigerant or water. A flow path (50f, see FIG. 7) may be formed within the pipe (50).

[0136] The pipe (50) can be fixed to the housing (100). The pipe (50) can be mounted to the housing (100). The pipe (50) can be assembled to the housing (100). In FIG. 4, the pipe (50) is illustrated as being fixed to the bottom panel (112) of the housing (100), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The pipe (50) can be fixed to panels other than the bottom panel (112) of the housing (100). For example, the pipe (50) can be fixed to the top panel (111) of the housing (100) (see FIGS. 22 to 27).

[0137] A portion of the pipe (50) may be exposed to the outside of the housing (100). The portion of the pipe (50) exposed to the outside of the housing (100) may be connected to a device or other pipe constituting the air conditioning system (1).

[0138] A portion of the pipe (50) may protrude outside the housing (100). For example, while the pipe (50) is fixed to the bottom panel (112) of the housing (100), a portion of the pipe (50) may protrude beyond the lower surface (112a) of the housing (100).

[0139] A portion of the pipe (50) may be disposed inside the housing (100). A portion of the pipe (50) disposed inside the housing (100) may be connected to components inside the housing (100). For example, the pipe (50) may be connected to a third heat exchanger (31). For example, the pipe (50) may be directly connected to the third heat exchanger (31) or indirectly connected to the third heat exchanger (31) through another component.

[0140] The air conditioning system (1) may include a pipe holder (200). The pipe holder (200) may be provided to secure the pipe (50) to the housing (100). The pipe holder (200) may be provided to install the pipe (50) to the housing (100). The pipe holder (200) may be provided to detachably mount the pipe (50) to the housing (100). The pipe holder (200) may be provided to assemble the pipe (50) to the housing (100).

[0141] FIG. 5 illustrates a portion of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 illustrates a portion of the air conditioning system illustrated in FIG. 5 from another perspective. FIG. 7 illustrates a lower portion of a portion of the air conditioning system illustrated in FIG. 5. FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a portion of the air conditioning system illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0142] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 8, the air conditioning system (1) may include a housing (100), a pipe (50), and a pipe holder (200). The air conditioning system (1) may further include a drain member (300).

[0143] In FIGS. 5 to 8, a single pipe (50) is illustrated for convenience of explanation, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. A plurality of pipes (50) may be fixed to the housing (100) via a plurality of pipe holders (200).

[0144] The housing (100) may include a first pipe hole (120). The first pipe hole (120) may be formed to correspond to a pipe (50). For example, the housing (100) may include a plurality of first pipe holes (120) corresponding to each of a plurality of pipes (50).

[0145] A drain member (300) may be placed inside the housing (100). The drain member (300) may be provided to accommodate moisture generated inside the housing (100). For example, the drain member (300) may store moisture generated on the surface of the pipe (50). As a result, the drain member (300) may prevent water from leaking outside the housing (100).

[0146] The drain member (300) may include a tray portion (310). The tray portion (310) may have a substantially sunken shape to allow moisture to accumulate. For example, the tray portion (310) may be positioned to correspond to the bottom panel (112). For example, the tray portion (310) may be positioned above the bottom panel (112).

[0147] The drain member (300) may include a second pipe hole (320). The second pipe hole (320) may be formed by penetrating the tray portion (310). The second pipe hole (320) may be provided to correspond to the pipe (50). The second pipe hole (320) may be provided to correspond to the first pipe hole (120). The second pipe hole (320) may be provided to overlap the first pipe hole (120). For example, the drain member (300) may include a plurality of second pipe holes (320) corresponding to each of the plurality of first pipe holes (120).

[0148] The drain member (300) may include a side wall portion (330). The side wall portion (330) may be formed around the second pipe hole (320). The side wall portion (330) may be provided to partition the second pipe hole (320) and the tray portion (310). Accordingly, moisture contained in the tray portion (310) may not flow into the second pipe hole (320) due to the side wall portion (330).

[0149] The pipe holder (200) is detachably coupleable to the pipe (50). The pipe holder (200) can be detachably coupled to the outer surface (50a) of the pipe (50).

[0150] The pipe holder (200) may be provided to correspond to the first pipe hole (120) of the housing (100). The pipe holder (200) is insertable into the first pipe hole (120). A portion of the pipe holder (200) may pass through the housing (100). A portion of the pipe holder (200) may be exposed to the outside of the housing (100). A portion of the pipe holder (200) may protrude to the outside of the housing (100).

[0151] The pipe holder (200) may be provided to correspond to the second pipe hole (320) of the drain member (300). The pipe holder (200) may be inserted into the second pipe hole (320). A portion of the pipe holder (200) may pass through the drain member (300).

[0152] As the pipe holder (200) is inserted into the first pipe hole (120) and the second pipe hole (320) and coupled to the housing (100), the pipe (50) can be fixed to the housing (100).

[0153] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a pipe holder according to one embodiment. Fig. 10 illustrates the inside of a pipe holder in an unfolded state according to one embodiment. Fig. 11 illustrates the upper side of a pipe holder in an unfolded state according to one embodiment.

[0154] The pipe holder (200) may include a holder frame (210). The holder frame (210) may be provided to surround the outer surface (50a) of the pipe (50). The holder frame (210) may be provided to cover a portion of the outer surface (50a) of the pipe (50). The holder frame (210) may be coupled to the outer surface (50a) of the pipe (50). The holder frame (210) may include a hollow portion (210b) so that the pipe (50) may be placed therein.

[0155] The inner surface (210a) of the holder frame (210) may include a shape corresponding to the outer surface (50a) of the pipe (50). For example, the pipe (50) may include a coupling protrusion (51) formed on the outer surface (50a) of the pipe (50), and the holder frame (210) may include a coupling groove (2101) formed on the inner surface (210a) of the holder frame (210) and capable of accommodating the coupling protrusion (51) (see FIG. 8). For example, the coupling protrusion (51) may be formed by welding a ring-shaped member larger in size than the outer surface (50a) of the pipe (50) to the pipe (50). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example, and the coupling protrusion (51) may of course be formed through various known methods. In addition, contrary to the example shown in the drawing, the pipe (50) may include a coupling groove that is recessed from the outer surface (50a) of the pipe (50), and the pipe holder (200) may include a coupling protrusion that is receptive to the coupling groove of the pipe (50). According to the present disclosure, since the holder frame (210) and the pipe (50) have a shape that interlocks with each other, the holder frame (210) can be coupled to the pipe (50) at an accurate position. That is, the coupling protrusion (51) and the coupling groove (2101) may be provided to guide the coupling of the holder frame (210) and the pipe (50).

[0156] The pipe holder (200) may be provided to be foldable. The holder frame (210) may be provided to be foldable. The holder frame (210) may be provided in an unfolded or folded state. The holder frame (210) may be separated from the pipe (50) in the unfolded state. The holder frame (210) may be folded to enclose the pipe (50).

[0157] The holder frame (210) may include a first frame portion (211). For example, the first frame portion (211) may be provided to surround a portion of the pipe (50). For example, the first frame portion (211) may be provided as approximately half of the holder frame (210).

[0158] The holder frame (210) may include a second frame portion (212). The second frame portion (212) may be detachably coupled to the first frame portion (211) with the pipe (50) interposed therebetween (see FIGS. 7 and 8). For example, the second frame portion (212) may be configured to surround another portion of the pipe (50). For example, the second frame portion (212) may be configured to be approximately half of the holder frame (210).

[0159] When the holder frame (210) is folded, the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212) can be arranged to face each other (see FIG. 9).

[0160] When the holder frame (210) is unfolded, the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212) can be arranged in parallel (see FIGS. 10 and 11).

[0161] The holder frame (210) may include a connecting portion (213) connecting the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212). The connecting portion (213) may be arranged between the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212). The connecting portion (213) may be foldable between the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212). The connecting portion (213) may be provided to face each other through the connecting portion (213). The holder frame (210) may be provided to be foldable through the connecting portion (213) so that the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212) face each other. For example, a cutting portion (216) may be formed in the holder frame (210), thereby enabling the connecting portion (213) to be foldable.

[0162] The connecting portion (213) may include at least two or more bend portions (2131). The bend portion (2131) may refer to a portion of the connecting portion (213) that is folded. For example, the bend portion (2131) may include a portion of the connecting portion (213) that is formed relatively thinly. For example, the bend portion (213) may include a curved shape. Since the connecting portion (213) includes at least two or more bend portions (2131), the force applied to the connecting portion (213) may be distributed. Since the force generated each time the connecting portion (213) is folded is distributed, damage to the connecting portion (213) may be prevented. The lifespan of the pipe holder (200) may be extended.

[0163] One of the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212) may include a hook hole (214) formed on a side farther from the connection portion (213). The other of the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212) may include a hook (215) formed on a side farther from the connection portion (213). While the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (213) face each other, the hook (215) is engageable with the hook hole (214). While the hook (215) and the hook hole (214) are engaged, the pipe holder (200) may be maintained in a folded state. For example, when the hook (215) and the hook hole (214) are engaged while the pipe holder (200) is folded to surround the pipe (50), the pipe (50) and the pipe holder (200) may be temporarily fixed.

[0164] For example, the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212) may have approximately the same shape centered on the connecting portion (213), except for the hook (215) and the hook hole (214). For example, the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212) may be arranged to be symmetrical with respect to the vertical direction, except for the hook (215) and the hook hole (214).

[0165] The holder frame (210) may be provided so as to be insertable in a first direction (D1) into the first pipe hole (120) of the housing (100) (see FIGS. 18 and 19). The holder frame (210) may be provided so as to be insertable in a first direction (D1) into the second pipe hole (320) of the drain member (300) (see FIGS. 18 and 19). For example, when the pipe (50) is fixed to the bottom panel (112) of the housing (100) through the pipe holder (200), the first direction (D1) may be downward (see FIGS. 18 and 19). For example, when the pipe (50) is fixed to the top panel (111) of the housing (100) through the pipe holder (200), the first direction (D1) may be upward (see FIGS. 22 and 23).

[0166] For example, the holder frame (210) may be manufactured by injection molding. For example, the holder frame (210) may include a material that is resistant to impact or external force.

[0167] The pipe holder (200) may include an elastic protrusion (220). The elastic protrusion (220) may be provided on the holder frame (210). The elastic protrusion (220) may be formed on the holder frame (210). The elastic protrusion (220) may be provided to be elastically deformable relative to the holder frame (210). The elastic protrusion (220) may be detachably coupled to the housing (100) as it is elastically deformed relative to the holder frame (210). The elastic protrusion (220) may be fixed to the housing (100) or detachable from the housing (100) as it is elastically deformed relative to the holder frame (210). While the elastic protrusion (220) is coupled to the housing (100), the elastic protrusion (220) may be provided to be exposed to the outside of the housing (100) (see FIGS. 20, 21, and 24).

[0168] The elastic protrusion (220) may be referred to as an elastic member (220), an elastic panel (220), an elastic rib (220), etc.

[0169] The elastic protrusion (220) may include a protrusion body (221). The protrusion body (221) may be provided to be elastically deformable relative to the holder frame (210). The protrusion body (221) may have a shape extending approximately along the longitudinal direction of the pipe (50). The protrusion body (221) may be formed by cutting at least a portion of the holder frame (210). For example, the protrusion body (221) may be formed by an opening (230) to be described later.

[0170] The protrusion body (221) may include a first side (2211) connected to the holder frame (210). The protrusion body (221) may include a second side (2212) rotatable with respect to the first side (2211). The second side (2212) may be provided on an opposite side of the first side (2211). The second side (2212) may be provided to be surrounded by an opening (230). Thus, the first side (2211) may be provided as a kind of fixed end, and the second side (2212) may be provided as a kind of free end. The protrusion body (221) may include a third side (2213) connecting the first side (2211) and the second side (2212). The protrusion body (221) may be provided on the opposite side of the third side (2213) and may include a fourth side (2214) connecting the first side (2211) and the second side (2212). The third side (2213) may be positioned closer to the connecting portion (213) than the fourth side (2214). For example, the protrusion body (221) may include a roughly rectangular plate shape.

[0171] The elastic protrusion (220) may include a protrusion (222) protruding from the protrusion body (221). The protrusion (222) may protrude from the protrusion body (221). The protrusion (222) may protrude from the protrusion body (221) toward the outside of the pipe holder (220). The protrusion (222) may protrude from the protrusion body (221) in a second direction (D2) intersecting the first direction (D1) (see FIGS. 20 and 21). For example, the second direction (D2) may be a radially outer direction of the pipe holder (200).

[0172] The elastic protrusions (220) may be provided on each of the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212). For example, when the holder frame (210) is folded, the elastic protrusions (220) formed on the first frame portion (211) and the elastic protrusions (220) formed on the second frame portion (211) may be provided to face each other. The elastic protrusions (220) formed on the first frame portion (211) and the elastic protrusions (220) formed on the second frame portion (211) may be provided as a pair of elastic protrusions. In the drawing, one elastic protrusion (220) is shown as being formed on each of the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Each of the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212) may include at least one elastic protrusion (220). Alternatively, either the first frame portion (211) or the second frame portion (212) may include at least one elastic protrusion (220).

[0173] The pipe holder (200) may include an opening (230). The opening (230) may be formed by penetrating a portion of the holder frame (210). By forming the opening (230) in the holder frame (210), an elastic protrusion (220) may be formed. By forming the opening (230) in the holder frame (210), the elastic protrusion (220) may be moved to be elastically deformable with respect to the holder frame (210).

[0174] The opening (230) may be configured to surround a portion of the elastic protrusion (220).

[0175] For example, the opening (230) may be provided to surround a portion of the protrusion body (221) excluding a portion connected to the holder frame (210) (e.g., the first side (2211)). For example, the opening (230) may be provided to surround the second side (2212), the third side (2213), and the fourth side (2214) of the protrusion body (221).

[0176] For example, the opening (230) may include a first slit portion (231) formed by penetrating the holder frame (210) along approximately the length direction of the pipe (50). The first slit portion (231) may be positioned between the third side portion (2213) and the holder frame (210). The third side portion (2213) may be positioned so as to face the first slit portion (231).

[0177] For example, the opening (230) may include a second slit portion (232) formed by penetrating the holder frame (210) approximately along the longitudinal direction of the pipe (50). The second slit portion (232) may be spaced apart from the first slit portion (231) approximately along the circumferential direction of the holder frame (210). The second slit portion (232) may be arranged between the fourth side portion (2214) and the holder frame (210). The fourth side portion (2214) may be arranged to face the second slit portion (232).

[0178] For example, the opening (230) may include a third slit portion (233) that is positioned between the first slit portion (231) and the second slit portion (232) and is formed to penetrate the holder frame (210) approximately along the circumferential direction of the holder frame (210). The third slit portion (233) may be positioned between the second side portion (2212) and the holder frame (210). The second side portion (2212) may be positioned to face the third slit portion (233).

[0179] For example, the first slit portion (231), the second slit portion (232), and the third slit portion (233) may be arranged around the elastic protrusion (220). For example, the opening (230) may include a 'ㄷ' shape rotated approximately 90 degrees in the right direction.

[0180] An opening (230) may be provided in each of the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212). For example, in order to form at least one elastic protrusion (220) in each of the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212), at least one opening (230) may be provided in each of the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212).

[0181] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a pipe holder according to one embodiment.

[0182] The pipe holder (200) illustrated in FIG. 12 may further include a guide frame (240) compared to the pipe holders (200) illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 11. Except for the guide frame (240), the pipe holder (200) illustrated in FIG. 12 may be substantially identical to the pipe holders (200) illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 11. Substantially identical components are assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0183] Referring to FIG. 12, the pipe holder (200) may include a guide frame (240) extending from the holder frame (210). The guide frame (240) may be configured to guide moisture (water droplets). A detailed description thereof will be provided later.

[0184] For example, the guide frame (240) may extend upward from the holder frame (210). For example, the guide frame (240) may include an inclined surface (240a) that tapers upward from the holder frame (210). For example, the guide frame (240) may include an inclined surface (240a) that tapers in a third direction (D3, see FIG. 20) opposite to the first direction (D1) from the holder frame (210).

[0185] For example, the guide frame (240) may include a first guide portion (241) extending from the first frame portion (211) and a second guide portion (242) extending from the second frame portion (212). For example, the first guide portion (241) may be formed integrally with the first frame portion (211). For example, the second guide portion (242) may be formed integrally with the second frame portion (212). For example, when the pipe holder (200) is folded, the first guide portion (241) and the second guide portion (242) may be arranged to face each other. For example, the first guide portion (241) and the second guide portion (242) may be arranged to have the pipe (50) interposed therebetween.

[0186] Fig. 13 illustrates an example of a state before a pipe and a pipe holder are coupled. Fig. 14 illustrates an example of a state in which a pipe and a pipe holder are coupled. Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' shown in Fig. 14. Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' shown in Fig. 14. Fig. 17 illustrates an example of a process in which a housing and a drain member are coupled. Fig. 18 illustrates an example of a process in which a pipe is fixed to a housing. Fig. 19 illustrates an example of a state in which a pipe is fixed to a housing in Fig. 18. Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC' shown in Fig. 19. Fig. 21 is an enlarged view of part A shown in Fig. 20.

[0187] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 21, an example of a process for fixing a pipe (50) to a housing (100) will be described. In FIGS. 13 to 21, the pipe holder (200) illustrated in FIG. 12 is illustrated as an example, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The contents described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 21 can be fully applied to the aforementioned embodiment(s) and the embodiment(s) to be described below. Substantially identical components are assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0188] Referring to Fig. 13, the inner surface of the pipe holder (200) may be provided to face the outer surface (50a) of the pipe (50). The inner surface (210a) of the holder frame (210) may be provided to face the outer surface (50a) of the pipe (50). The holder frame (210) may be provided in an unfolded state. For example, the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212) may be arranged in parallel. The engaging protrusion (51) of the pipe (50) and the engaging groove (2101) of the pipe holder (200) may correspond to each other. By corresponding the engaging protrusion (51) of the pipe (50) and the engaging groove (2101) of the pipe holder (200), the pipe (50) and the pipe holder (200) can be coupled at an accurate position.

[0189] Referring to FIG. 14, a pipe holder (200) can be coupled to a pipe (50). The pipe holder (200) can be coupled to the pipe (50) such that the inner surface of the pipe holder (200) and the outer surface of the pipe (50) face each other. The pipe holder (200) can be arranged to surround the pipe (50). For example, when the holder frame (210) is unfolded and the pipe (50) is placed between the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212), the pipe holder (200) can surround the pipe (50) as the holder frame (210) is folded through the connection portion (213).

[0190] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, as the pipe holder (200) is folded to surround the pipe (50), the hook hole (214) formed in the first frame portion (211) and the hook (215) formed in the second frame portion (212) can be coupled to each other. In a state where the coupling protrusion (51) of the pipe (50) is engaged with the coupling groove (2101) of the pipe holder (200), the hook (215) and the hook hole (214) can be coupled to each other. While the coupling protrusion (51) of the pipe (50) is received in the coupling groove (2101) of the pipe holder (200), the hook (215) and the hook hole (214) can be coupled to each other. In a state where the hook (215) and the hook hole (214) are coupled, the pipe holder (200) cannot be separated from the pipe (50). With the hook (215) and the hook hole (214) combined, the pipe holder (200) and the pipe (50) can be maintained in a combined state. The combination of the pipe (50) and the pipe holder (200) can be referred to as a pipe assembly (PA).

[0191] Referring to Fig. 17, the drain member (300) and the housing (100) can be coupled. The second pipe hole (320) of the drain member (300) and the first pipe hole (120) of the housing (100) can be arranged to correspond. The second pipe hole (320) of the drain member (300) and the first pipe hole (120) of the housing (100) can be arranged to overlap. For example, in a state where the second pipe hole (320) of the drain member (300) and the first pipe hole (120) of the housing (100) are aligned, the drain member (300) and the housing (100) can be fixed. For example, the drain member (300) and the housing (100) can be screw-coupled. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described examples, and the drain member (300) and the housing (100) may be assembled through various known methods. The combination of the drain member (300) and the housing (100) may be referred to as a fixed frame (500).

[0192] Meanwhile, the order of combining the pipe holder (200) and the pipe (50) and combining the drain member (300) and the housing (100) is not fixed. For example, the pipe holder (200) and the pipe (50) may be combined first, and then the drain member (300) and the housing (100) may be combined. For example, the drain member (300) and the housing (100) may be combined first, and then the pipe holder (200) and the pipe (50) may be combined. For example, combining the pipe holder (200) and the pipe (50) and combining the drain member (300) and the housing (100) may be performed simultaneously.

[0193] Referring to FIG. 18, the pipe assembly (PA) can be aligned to the fixed frame (500). The pipe assembly (PA) can be positioned to correspond to the first pipe hole (120) of the housing (100). The pipe assembly (PA) can be positioned to correspond to the second pipe hole (320) of the drain member (300).

[0194] Referring to FIGS. 19 to 21, the pipe assembly (PA) and the fixed frame (500) can be coupled. The holder frame (210) coupled to the pipe (50) can be inserted into the first pipe hole (120) in the first direction (D1). The holder frame (210) coupled to the pipe (50) can be inserted into the second pipe hole (320) in the first direction (D1).

[0195] While the pipe assembly (PA) is coupled to the fixed frame (500), the elastic protrusion (220) can be elastically deformed relative to the holder frame (210). While the pipe assembly (PA) is coupled to the fixed frame (500), the protrusion (222) of the elastic protrusion (220) can be pressed by the hole edge portion (130) forming the first pipe hole (120). As the protrusion (222) of the elastic protrusion (220) is pressed by the hole edge portion (130), the elastic protrusion (220) can be elastically deformed relative to the holder frame (210).

[0196] For example, the diameter of the first pipe hole (120) may be defined as the first diameter (d1), the diameter of the protrusion body (221) may be defined as the second diameter (d2), and the diameter of the protrusion (222) may be defined as the third diameter (d3). The third diameter (d3) may be larger than the first diameter (d1). The third diameter (d3) may be larger than the second diameter (d2). The second diameter (d2) may be smaller than the first diameter (d1). Accordingly, when the holder frame (210) is inserted into the first pipe hole (120), the protrusion (222) of the elastic protrusion (220) is pressed by the hole edge portion (130).

[0197] The protrusion (222) can be pressed by the hole edge portion (130) while passing through the first pipe hole (120). While the protrusion (222) passes through the first pipe hole (120), the inclined surface (222a) of the protrusion (222) can come into contact with the hole edge portion (130). The inclined surface (222a) can be provided to be tapered along the first direction (D1). The elastic protrusion (220) can be smoothly inserted into the first pipe hole (120) in the first direction (D1) by the inclined surface (222a) tapering along the first direction (D1). Even when the pipe assembly (PA) is not arranged in an accurate position in the fixed frame (500), the pipe holder (200) can be easily inserted into the first pipe hole (120) by being guided by the inclined surface (222a).

[0198] The hole edge portion (130) may have a smooth surface facing the first pipe hole (120). For example, the hole edge portion (130) may be hemmed. Accordingly, the elastic protrusion (220) of the pipe holder (200) may be assembled to the housing (100) while smoothly sliding by the hole edge portion (130). In addition, the elastic protrusion (220) of the pipe holder (200) may not be damaged by the hole edge portion (130).

[0199] As the holder frame (210) coupled to the pipe (50) is inserted into the first pipe hole (120), the protrusion (222) may be arranged to pass through the first pipe hole (120) and interfere with the housing (100). The protrusion (222) may protrude from the protrusion body (221) in a second direction (D2) intersecting the first direction (D1). The protrusion (222) may be arranged to be caught on the housing (100). While the protrusion (222) interferes with the housing (100), the pipe (50) may be restricted from moving in a third direction (D3) opposite to the first direction (D1). That is, the pipe (50) may be fixed to the housing (100) via the pipe holder (200). For example, while the pipe (50) is fixed to the bottom panel (112) of the housing (100), the protrusion (222) can contact the lower surface (112a) of the housing (100).

[0200] While the pipe holder (200) secures the pipe (50) to the housing (100), as the protrusion (222) is pressed toward the inside of the first pipe hole (120), the holder frame (210) coupled to the pipe (50) can be provided to be detachable from the housing (100) through the first pipe hole (120). As the protrusion (222) is pressed, the elastic protrusion (220) can be elastically deformed with respect to the holder frame (210). The second side (2212) of the protrusion body (221) can rotate with respect to the first side (2212) (see the dashed line in FIG. 21). The protrusion (222) can be provided so as not to interfere with the housing (100) as it is pressed. Since the protrusion (222) is arranged so as not to interfere with the housing (100), the holder frame (210) coupled to the pipe (50) can move in the third direction (D3) from the first pipe hole (120). That is, by moving the pipe holder (200) in the third direction (D3) while the protrusion (222) is pressed, the pipe (50) can be separated from the housing (100).

[0201] While the pipe holder (200) secures the pipe (50) to the housing (100), the protrusion (222) of the elastic protrusion (220) may be provided to be exposed to the outside of the housing (100). By pressing the protrusion (222) exposed to the outside of the housing (100), the pipe holder (200) coupled to the pipe (50) can be easily separated from the housing (100). Accordingly, there is no need to disassemble the entire housing (100) to separate the pipe (50) from the housing (100). In addition, there is no need to use tools or the like to enter the interior of the housing (100). Accordingly, the air conditioning system (1) is easy to provide services such as maintenance.

[0202] According to related technology, pipes are secured to a housing using nipples or brackets. Since screws must be attached to the nipples or brackets, if the pipes are misaligned, securing the pipes to the housing can be difficult. Furthermore, as the number of pipes increases, the number of screws also increases, making screw assembly and / or screw disassembly time-consuming. In some cases, screw assembly parts must be formed on the nipples or brackets, and corresponding holes must be formed in the housing, which can weaken the rigidity of the housing.

[0203] In contrast, according to the present disclosure, the pipe holder (200) can be provided to secure the pipe (50) to the housing without screws. Even when the pipe (50) is not aligned in an exact position in the housing (100), the pipe (50) can be easily secured to the housing (100) through the pipe holder (200). The time required for securing or detaching the pipe (50) to or from the housing (100) can be reduced. No screw assembly portion is formed in the pipe holder (200), and no hole corresponding to the screw assembly portion is formed in the housing (100).

[0204] Meanwhile, while the holder frame (210) coupled to the pipe (50) is inserted into the first pipe hole (120) and the second pipe hole (320), the guide frame (240) can guide moisture generated on the outer surface (50a) of the pipe (50) to the tray portion (310) (see the dashed arrow in FIG. 20). The guide frame (240) can extend upward from the holder frame (210). The guide frame (240) can include an upwardly tapered inclined surface (240a). The guide frame (240) can have a shape that slopes downward toward the tray portion (310) of the drain member (300). The guide frame (240) can cover the first pipe hole (120). The guide frame (240) can cover the second pipe hole (320). For example, when low-temperature water (or refrigerant) flows through a pipe (50), moisture may form on the outer surface (50a) of the pipe due to the temperature difference between the air temperature and the surface of the pipe (50). Since the guide frame (240) guides the moisture formed on the outer surface (50a) of the pipe (50) to the tray portion (310), the moisture may not flow into the first pipe hole and / or the second pipe hole (320). The guide frame (240) can prevent moisture from flowing out to the outside of the housing (100).

[0205] Typically, to prevent moisture generated on the pipe surface from leaking out of the product, the pipe surface can be wrapped with insulation or configured as a U-trap structure. However, attaching insulation to each pipe individually can be time-consuming and costly. Furthermore, if the size of the product to which the pipe is attached is limited, implementing a U-trap structure can be difficult.

[0206] In contrast, according to the present disclosure, the guide frame (240) of the pipe holder (200) can guide moisture generated on the surface of the pipe (50) to the tray portion (310) of the drain member (300). Thus, even without wrapping the surface of the pipe (50) with an insulating material or forming the pipe (50) into a U-trap structure, moisture generated on the surface of the pipe (50) can be prevented from leaking out of the housing (100).

[0207] Fig. 22 illustrates an example of a process in which a pipe is secured to a housing. Fig. 23 illustrates an example of a state in which the pipe is secured to a housing in Fig. 22. Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line DD' shown in Fig. 23. Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE' shown in Fig. 23.

[0208] Referring to FIGS. 22 to 25, an example in which a pipe (50) is fixed to a top panel (111) of a housing (100) will be described. Except for the fixing position and fixing direction of the pipe (50), the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 22 to 25 may be substantially the same as the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 13 to 21. Substantially identical components are assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0209] Referring to FIG. 22, the pipe assembly (PA) can be aligned with the housing (100). The pipe assembly (PA) can be positioned to correspond to the first pipe hole (120) of the housing (100). Although not shown in the drawing, if a drain member (300) is additionally provided, the pipe assembly (PA) can be positioned to correspond to the second pipe hole (320) of the drain member (300).

[0210] Referring to FIG. 23, the pipe assembly (PA) can be coupled to the housing (100). The holder frame (210) coupled to the pipe (50) can be inserted into the first pipe hole (120) in a first direction (D1). Although not shown in the drawing, if a drain member (300) is additionally provided, the holder frame (210) coupled to the pipe (50) can be inserted into the second pipe hole (320) in the first direction (D1). For example, if the pipe (50) is fixed to the top panel (111) of the housing (100) via the pipe holder (200), the first direction (D1) can be upward.

[0211] Referring to FIGS. 24 and 25, the coupling protrusion (51) of the pipe (50) can be engaged with the coupling groove (2101) of the holder frame (210). While the pipe (50) is fixed to the housing (100) through the pipe holder (200), the protrusion (222) of the elastic protrusion (220) can pass through the first pipe hole (120) and interfere with the housing (100). For example, while the pipe (50) is fixed to the top panel (111) of the housing (100), the protrusion (222) can come into contact with the upper surface (111a) of the housing (100). While the pipe (50) is fixed to the housing (100) through the pipe holder (200), the protrusion (222) of the elastic protrusion (220) can be exposed to the outside of the housing (100).

[0212] FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment.

[0213] The air conditioning system (1) may further include a sealing member (400) provided to seal between the pipe (50) and the pipe holder (200). The sealing member (400) may be disposed between the outer surface (50a) of the pipe (50) and the inner surface of the pipe holder (200). The sealing member (400) may be disposed between the outer surface (50a) of the pipe (50) and the inner surface (210a) of the holder frame (210). The pipe (50) may be connected to a vibration source such as a pump or a compressor, and noise or vibration may be transmitted to the outside of the housing (100) through the pipe (50). At this time, the sealing member (400) may prevent noise or vibration from being transmitted to the housing (100) through the pipe (50).

[0214] Meanwhile, in FIG. 26, the sealing member (400) is illustrated as being positioned between the pipe (50) and the pipe holder (200) when the pipe (50) is fixed to the top panel (111) of the housing (100), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Even when the pipe (50) is fixed to panels other than the top panel (111) of the housing (100), the sealing member (400) may be positioned between the pipe (50) and the pipe holder (200).

[0215] Figure 27 illustrates an example of a process in which multiple pipes are secured to a housing.

[0216] Referring to FIG. 27, a plurality of pipes (50) can be fixed to the housing (100) at one time. Each of the plurality of pipes (50) can be fixed to the housing (100) at one time through each of the plurality of pipe holders (200). Conversely, the plurality of pipes (50) can also be separated from the housing (100) at one time. Each of the plurality of pipes (50) can be separated from the housing (100) at one time through each of the plurality of pipe holders (200). As described above, according to the present disclosure, a separate fastening part (e.g., screw) is not required during piping work, so that the plurality of pipes (50) can be fixed to the housing (100) or separated from the housing (100) at one time. As a result, the time required for piping work can be reduced and work efficiency can be improved.

[0217] An air conditioning system (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing (100) having a pipe hole (120); a heat exchanger (11; 21; 31); a pipe (50) connected to the heat exchanger (11; 21; 31) and configured to allow refrigerant or water to flow; and a pipe holder (200) configured to secure the pipe (50) to the housing (100). The pipe holder (200) may include a holder frame (210) that is connectable to the pipe so as to surround an outer surface of the pipe and is insertable into the pipe hole (120) of the housing in a first direction (D1). The pipe holder (200) may include an elastic protrusion (220). The elastic protrusion (220) may include a protrusion body (221) that is elastically deformable with respect to the holder frame (210). The elastic protrusion (220) may include a protrusion (222) that protrudes from the protrusion body (221) in a second direction (D2) intersecting the first direction (D1) so that the holder frame coupled to the pipe passes through the pipe hole and interferes with the housing (100) as the holder frame is inserted into the pipe hole.

[0218] The pipe holder (200) may further include an opening (230) formed by penetrating a portion of the holder frame. One side (2211) of the protruding body (221) may be connected to the holder frame. The other side (2212) of the protruding body (221) may be rotatable with respect to one side of the protruding body and may be provided to be surrounded by the opening (230).

[0219] While the pipe holder (200) fixes the pipe (50) to the housing (100), as the protrusion (222) is pressed toward the inside of the pipe hole (120), the holder frame (210) coupled to the pipe can be provided to be detachable from the housing (100) through the pipe hole (120).

[0220] While the pipe holder (200) fixes the pipe (50) to the housing (100), the protrusion (222) may be provided to be exposed to the outside of the housing (100).

[0221] The above protrusion (222) may include an inclined surface (222a) that tapers along the first direction (D1).

[0222] The holder frame (210) may include a first frame portion (211); a second frame portion (212) that can be detachably connected to the first frame portion with the pipe interposed therebetween; and a connecting portion (213) that connects the first frame portion and the second frame portion. The holder frame (210) may be provided so that the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212) can be folded through the connecting portion (213) so that they face each other.

[0223] One of the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212) may include a hook hole (214) formed on a side farther from the connection portion. The other of the first frame portion (211) and the second frame portion (212) may include a hook (215) formed on a side farther from the connection portion and capable of being coupled to the hook hole (214) while the first frame portion and the second frame portion face each other.

[0224] The above connecting portion (213) may include at least two bending portions (2131).

[0225] The inner surface (210a) of the holder frame (210) may have a shape corresponding to the outer surface (50a) of the pipe (50).

[0226] The above pipe (50) may include a coupling protrusion (51) formed on the outer surface (50a) of the pipe. The holder frame (210) may include a coupling groove (2101) formed on the inner surface (210a) of the holder frame (210) and capable of accommodating the coupling protrusion (51).

[0227] The first direction (D1) may be downward. The pipe hole may be a first pipe hole (120). The air conditioning system (1) may further include a drain member (300) disposed inside the housing. The drain member (300) may include a tray portion (310) and a second pipe hole (320) formed by penetrating the tray portion to correspond to the first pipe hole. The pipe holder (200) may further include a guide frame (240) provided to guide moisture generated on the outer surface of the pipe to the tray portion while the holder frame coupled to the pipe is inserted into the first pipe hole (120) and the second pipe hole (320). The guide frame (240) may extend upward from the holder frame (210).

[0228] The above guide frame (240) may include an upwardly tapered inclined surface (240a).

[0229] The above guide frame (240) may be provided to cover the first pipe hole (120) and the second pipe hole (320).

[0230] The above air conditioning system 91) may further include a sealing member (400) provided to seal between the pipe (50) and the pipe holder (200).

[0231] The above housing (100) may further include a hole edge portion (130) that forms the pipe hole (120) and is subjected to hemming processing.

[0232] An air conditioning system (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an outdoor unit (10) disposed outdoors; a heat load unit (40) disposed indoors; and an indoor unit (30) disposed indoors between the outdoor unit (10) and the heat load unit (40) and configured to supply water heated or cooled by heat energy obtained from the outdoor unit to the heat load unit. The indoor unit (30) may include a housing (100); a pipe (50) configured to guide refrigerant or water; and a pipe holder (200) configured to detachably mount the pipe (50) to the housing (100). The pipe holder (200) may include a holder frame (210) configured to surround an outer surface of the pipe. The pipe holder (200) may include an elastic protrusion (220) detachably coupled to the housing (100) by being elastically deformed with respect to the holder frame (210).

[0233] While the elastic protrusion (220) is coupled to the housing (100), the elastic protrusion (220) may be arranged to be exposed to the outside of the housing (100).

[0234] The pipe holder (200) may include a first slit portion (231) formed by penetrating the holder frame along the longitudinal direction of the pipe; a second slit portion (232) formed by penetrating the holder frame along the longitudinal direction of the pipe and spaced apart from the first slit portion along the circumferential direction of the holder frame; and a third slit portion (233) positioned between the first slit portion and the second slit portion and formed by penetrating the holder frame along the circumferential direction of the holder frame. The first slit portion (231), the second slit portion (232), and the third slit portion (233) may be arranged around the elastic protrusion (220).

[0235] The elastic protrusion may include a first side (2211) connected to the holder frame; and a second side (2212) provided on the opposite side of the first side and positioned so as to face the third slit portion (233).

[0236] A pipe holder according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided to secure a pipe designed to guide refrigerant or water to a housing. The pipe holder (200) may include a holder frame (210) provided to surround an outer surface of the pipe. The holder frame (210) may include a first frame portion (211), a second frame portion (212) that is detachably connectable to the first frame portion with the pipe interposed therebetween, and a connecting portion (213) that is bendable between the first frame portion and the second frame portion. The pipe holder (200) may include an elastic protrusion (220) that is provided to be elastically deformable with respect to the holder frame (210) and detachably connectable to the housing (100).

[0237] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the pipe holder can easily secure the pipe to the housing or easily separate the pipe from the housing. Thus, the air conditioning system has a structure that is advantageous for providing services such as maintenance.

[0238] According to the concept of the present disclosure, fastening components such as screws are not required during piping installation / assembly. This reduces the cost and time required for piping work.

[0239] According to the present disclosure, the pipe holder may have a structure for guiding moisture generated on the pipe surface, thereby preventing moisture generated on the pipe surface from leaking out of the product. The air conditioning system may not require insulation covering the pipe surface or a separate drainage structure (e.g., a U-TRAP).

[0240] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0241] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. Housing having a pipe hole; heat exchanger; A pipe connected to the above heat exchanger and provided to allow refrigerant or water to flow; and including a pipe holder provided to secure the pipe to the housing; The above pipe holder, A holder frame that is connectable to the pipe so as to surround the outer surface of the pipe and is insertable in the first direction into the pipe hole of the housing; An air conditioning system comprising: an elastic protrusion including a protrusion body that is elastically deformable for the holder frame; and a protrusion that protrudes from the protrusion body in a second direction intersecting the first direction so as to pass through the pipe hole and interfere with the housing as the holder frame coupled to the pipe is inserted into the pipe hole.

2. In paragraph 1, The above pipe holder, Further comprising an opening formed by penetrating a portion of the holder frame, One side of the above protrusion body is connected to the holder frame, An air conditioning system in which the other side of the above protrusion body is rotatable relative to one side of the above protrusion body and is surrounded by the above opening.

3. In paragraph 1, An air conditioning system in which the holder frame coupled to the pipe is provided to be detachable from the housing through the pipe hole as the protrusion is pressed toward the inside of the pipe hole while the pipe holder secures the pipe to the housing.

4. In paragraph 1, An air conditioning system wherein the protrusion is provided to be exposed to the outside of the housing while the pipe holder secures the pipe to the housing.

5. In paragraph 1, An air conditioning system wherein the protrusion includes a sloped surface tapering along the first direction.

6. In paragraph 1, The above holder frame, 1st frame section; A second frame part that can be detachably connected to the first frame part with the pipe interposed therebetween; and including a connecting portion connecting the first frame portion and the second frame portion; An air conditioning system in which the holder frame is foldable through the connecting portion so that the first frame portion and the second frame portion face each other.

7. In paragraph 6, Either of the first frame portion and the second frame portion includes a hook hole formed on a side far from the connecting portion, An air conditioning system wherein the other of the first frame portion and the second frame portion is formed on a side far from the connecting portion and includes a hook that can be coupled to the hook hole while the first frame portion and the second frame portion face each other.

8. In paragraph 6, An air conditioning system wherein the above connecting portion includes at least two or more bending portions.

9. In paragraph 1, An air conditioning system in which the inner surface of the holder frame has a shape corresponding to the outer surface of the pipe.

10. In paragraph 9, The above pipe includes a joining projection formed on the outer surface of the pipe, An air conditioning system in which the holder frame includes a coupling groove formed on the inner surface of the holder frame and capable of accommodating the coupling protrusion.

11. In paragraph 1, The above first direction is downward, The above pipe hole is the first pipe hole, A drain member disposed inside the housing, further comprising a drain member including a tray portion and a second pipe hole formed through the tray portion to correspond to the first pipe hole; The above pipe holder, An air conditioning system further comprising a guide frame extending upward from the holder frame to guide moisture generated on the outer surface of the pipe to the tray portion while the holder frame coupled to the pipe is inserted into the first pipe hole and the second pipe hole.

12. In paragraph 11, The above guide frame, An air conditioning system comprising an upwardly tapering slope.

13. In paragraph 11, The above guide frame, An air conditioning system provided to cover the first pipe hole and the second pipe hole.

14. In paragraph 1, An air conditioning system further comprising a sealing member provided to seal between the pipe and the pipe holder.

15. In paragraph 1, The above housing, An air conditioning system further comprising a hemmed hole edge portion forming the above-described piping hole.

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