Outdoor unit of air conditioner

Abstract

An outdoor unit of an air conditioner comprises: a cabinet; an outdoor heat exchanger which is disposed inside the cabinet and exchanges heat with outdoor air; and a control box disposed inside the cabinet and accommodating a circuit board on which a heating module is mounted. The control box comprises: a housing; a heat sink disposed outside the housing and provided to receive heat from the heating module in order to dissipate heat generated from the heating module; and a case disposed inside the housing and provided to support the circuit board. The case comprises: a plate extending in the vertical direction; and a water guide protruding from the plate to guide water introduced into the control box to a lower side of the case.

Description

Outdoor unit of air conditioner

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an outdoor unit of an air conditioner, and more particularly, to an outdoor unit of an air conditioner including a control box.

[0002] An air conditioner is a device that uses a refrigeration cycle to regulate temperature, humidity, airflow, and air distribution to meet human needs. The main components of the refrigeration cycle include a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and blower fan.

[0003] Air conditioners can be divided into separate air conditioners in which the indoor and outdoor units are installed separately, and integrated air conditioners in which the indoor and outdoor units are installed together in one cabinet.

[0004] Among these, the outdoor unit of the split-type air conditioner may include an outdoor heat exchanger for exchanging heat with outdoor air, a compressor for compressing refrigerant, an expansion valve unit for decompressing the refrigerant, and a blower fan for generating air flow. In addition, the outdoor unit of the air conditioner includes a housing that accommodates the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion valve unit, the compressor, and the blower fan. In addition, a control box that accommodates a circuit board assembly for controlling the air conditioner may be arranged inside the housing.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an outdoor unit of an air conditioner having an improved structure to prevent damage to a circuit board located inside a control box.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an outdoor unit of an air conditioner having an improved structure to prevent moisture from coming into contact with a circuit board located inside a control box.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an outdoor unit of an air conditioner having an improved structure for discharging moisture that has entered the inside of a control box.

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an outdoor unit of an air conditioner having an improved structure to prevent fire caused by moisture coming into contact with flammable materials, such as electronic components inside a control box.

[0009] 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.

[0010] According to one embodiment, an outdoor unit of an air conditioner includes a cabinet, an outdoor heat exchanger disposed inside the cabinet for exchanging heat with outdoor air, and a control box disposed inside the cabinet for accommodating a circuit board equipped with a heat generating module, wherein the control box includes a housing, a heat sink disposed outside the housing and configured to receive heat from a heat generating module to release heat generated from the heat generating module, and a case disposed inside the housing and configured to support the circuit board, wherein the case includes a plate extending vertically and a water guide protruding from the plate for guiding water flowing into the control box downwardly of the case.

[0011] According to one embodiment, an outdoor unit of an air conditioner includes a cabinet, a heat exchanger disposed inside the cabinet for exchanging heat with outdoor air, and a control box disposed inside the cabinet for accommodating a circuit board having a plurality of heat generating modules mounted thereon, wherein the control box includes a housing, a heat sink disposed outside the housing and configured to receive heat from a plurality of heat generating modules to release heat generated from the plurality of heat generating modules, and a case disposed inside the housing and configured to support the circuit board, wherein the case includes a plate extending in a vertical direction, a substrate support portion protruding from the plate to surround a lower edge of the circuit board, and a water guide protruding from the plate to guide water flowing into the control box downwardly of the case.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an exploded view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a control box of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the interior of a control box of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 6 is an exploded view illustrating a portion of a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 7 is an exploded view illustrating a portion of a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 9 is a front view of a case included in a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a case included in a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a case included in a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a case included in a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a case included in a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] 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 encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

[0026] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0030] 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).

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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 cabinet 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 cabinets forming a single air conditioner, such as a wall-mounted air conditioner, a stand-alone air conditioner, and a system air conditioner.

[0037] An air conditioner including a plurality of cabinets 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] The refrigerant may circulate through the refrigerant pipes 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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 can 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a cabinet, a blower for circulating air into or out of the cabinet, and an indoor heat exchanger for exchanging heat with air flowing into the interior of the cabinet.

[0059] The cabinet may include an intake port through which indoor air may be drawn into the interior of the cabinet.

[0060] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a filter designed to filter foreign substances in the air flowing into the cabinet through the intake port.

[0061] The cabinet may include an exhaust port. Air flowing within the cabinet may be exhausted to the exterior of the cabinet through the exhaust port.

[0062] The cabinet of the indoor unit may be provided with an airflow guide to guide 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 to control the exhaust airflow. However, the airflow guide is not limited thereto and may be omitted.

[0063] An indoor heat exchanger and a blower may be provided inside the cabinet of the indoor unit, which are arranged on a path connecting the intake and exhaust ports.

[0064] Blowers may include indoor fans and fan motors. For example, indoor fans may include axial fans, diffusion fans, crossflow fans, and centrifugal fans.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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 a wireless remote controller. The configuration data input through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an indoor unit sensor. The indoor unit sensor may be an environmental sensor positioned within a space inside or outside the cabinet. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include one or more temperature sensors and / or humidity sensors positioned within a predetermined space inside or outside the cabinet 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] The outdoor unit control unit can be electrically connected to components of the outdoor unit and 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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 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 nonvolatile memory, such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), for storing data for a long period of time.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0087] Meanwhile, the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", etc. used in the following description are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms. For example, referring to FIG. 2, the direction in which the front cabinet (110) of the outdoor unit (10) of the air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure faces may be defined as forward (+X direction), and the opposite direction may be defined as rear (-X direction). In addition, the vertical direction in which the outdoor fan cover (190) of the outdoor unit (10) of the air conditioner (1) faces may be defined as upward (+Z direction), and the opposite direction may be defined as downward (-Z direction). In addition, the directions in which the side cabinet (150) of the outdoor unit (10) of the air conditioner (1) is located may be defined as leftward (+Y direction) and rightward (-Y direction).

[0088] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0090] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 1, an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an indoor unit (20) placed in an indoor space and an outdoor unit (10) placed in an outdoor space.

[0092] An air conditioner (1) can absorb heat from within the air-conditioned space and release heat from the outside of the air-conditioned space in order to cool the air-conditioned space. In addition, the air conditioner (1) can absorb heat from the outside of the air-conditioned space and release heat into the air-conditioned space in order to heat the air-conditioned space.

[0093] The outdoor unit (10) can exchange heat with outdoor air outside the air-conditioned space. The outdoor unit (10) can perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air by utilizing a phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation). For example, the outdoor unit (10) can release heat from the refrigerant to the outdoor air by utilizing condensation of the refrigerant. Additionally, the outdoor unit (10) can absorb heat from the outdoor air into the refrigerant by utilizing evaporation of the refrigerant.

[0094] Although one outdoor unit (10) is illustrated in FIG. 1, the number of outdoor units (10) is not limited by that illustrated in FIG. 1. For example, the air conditioner (1) may include multiple outdoor units.

[0095] The outdoor unit (10) may include an outdoor heat exchanger (11, see FIG. 3) that exchanges heat with outdoor air and a compressor (not shown) that compresses refrigerant gas.

[0096] A detailed description of the configuration of the outdoor unit (10) will be described later.

[0097] The indoor unit (20) can exchange heat with indoor air within the air-conditioned space. The indoor unit (20) can perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and indoor air by utilizing a phase change (e.g., evaporation or condensation) of the refrigerant. For example, the indoor unit (20) can cool the air-conditioned space by absorbing heat from the indoor air into the refrigerant through evaporation of the refrigerant. In addition, the indoor unit (20) can heat the air-conditioned space by releasing heat from the refrigerant into the indoor air through condensation of the refrigerant.

[0098] The indoor unit (20) may include an indoor heat exchanger that exchanges heat with indoor air, an indoor blower fan that sucks and blows indoor air to allow the indoor air to pass through the indoor heat exchanger, and an expansion valve unit that decompresses and expands the refrigerant.

[0099] Although one indoor unit (20) is illustrated in FIG. 1, the number of indoor units (20) is not limited by that illustrated in FIG. 1. For example, the air conditioner (1) may include multiple indoor units. Different indoor units may be installed in different air conditioning spaces, respectively.

[0100] In this way, the air conditioner (1) can perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and outdoor air outside the air conditioning space and heat exchange between the refrigerant and indoor air within the air conditioning space.

[0101] At this time, the air conditioner (1) may include a refrigerant pipe (30) that transfers refrigerant between the indoor unit (20) and the outdoor unit (10) in order to transfer heat between the outside of the air-conditioned space and the inside of the air-conditioned space. The refrigerant pipe (30) may allow refrigerant to flow between the outside of the air-conditioned space and the inside of the air-conditioned space. The indoor unit (20) and the outdoor unit (10) may be connected to each other through the refrigerant pipe (30) that transfers refrigerant.

[0102] The air conditioner (1) described above is merely an example of an air conditioner to which the outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to the concept of the present disclosure can be applied, and the concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The configuration of the air conditioner to which the outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to the concept of the present disclosure can be applied, and the indoor unit, refrigerant pipe, etc. included therein can be provided in various ways.

[0103] Hereinafter, the outdoor unit (10) of the air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 13.

[0104] Fig. 2 is a drawing illustrating an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 3 is a drawing illustrating an exploded view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0105] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, an outdoor unit (10) of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an outdoor heat exchanger (11) for exchanging heat with outdoor air, a compressor (not shown) for compressing a refrigerant, an outdoor fan (13) for sucking and blowing outdoor air so that the outdoor air passes through the outdoor heat exchanger (11), and a cabinet (100) forming the exterior of the outdoor unit (10).

[0106] The cabinet (100) can form the exterior of the outdoor unit (10). Various components of the outdoor unit (10), such as the outdoor heat exchanger (11), compressor, outdoor fan (13), and control box (1000) to be described later, can be accommodated inside the cabinet (100).

[0107] The cabinet (100) may include an inlet (131, 151) formed to allow air to flow in and an outlet (191) formed to allow air to flow out. As the outdoor fan (13) rotates, air outside the cabinet (100) may flow in through the inlet (131, 151), and after exchanging heat with the outdoor heat exchanger (11), may be discharged to the outside of the cabinet (100) through the outlet (191).

[0108] The outdoor unit (10) may include a machine room (R) formed inside the cabinet (100). Outside air may be introduced into the machine room (R), and the introduced air may be discharged back to the outside. In the machine room (R), heat exchange may take place between the outdoor heat exchanger (11) and the air introduced from the outside. Components such as the outdoor heat exchanger (11), an outdoor fan (13), a compressor, and a control box (1000) described later may be placed in the machine room (R).

[0109] For example, the cabinet (100) can be formed to have a roughly box shape.

[0110] Below, an example of the structure of the cabinet (100) is described.

[0111] The cabinet (100) may include a front cabinet (110). The front cabinet (110) may cover the front (+X direction) of the machine room (R). For example, the front cabinet (110) may be formed in a substantially flat plate shape.

[0112] For example, a plurality of heat dissipation holes (111) may be formed in the front cabinet (110) so that the machine room (R) can be connected to the outside of the outdoor unit (10) and heat within the machine room (R) can be released.

[0113] The cabinet (100) may include a rear cabinet (130). The rear cabinet (130) may form part of the rear exterior of the outdoor unit (10). The rear cabinet (130) may be placed at the rear (-X direction) of the machine room (R). An inlet (131) may be formed in the rear cabinet (130).

[0114] The front cabinet (110) and the rear cabinet (130) can be arranged opposite each other.

[0115] The cabinet (100) may include a pair of side cabinets (150) arranged on both sides. The pair of side cabinets (150) may form one side of the left side (-Y direction) and one side of the right side (+Y direction) of the outdoor unit (10).

[0116] The side cabinet (150) can cover the machine room (R). An inlet (151) can be formed in the side cabinet (150).

[0117] A pair of side cabinets (150) can be coupled to a front cabinet (110). A pair of side cabinets (150) can be coupled to a rear cabinet (130).

[0118] For example, the side cabinet (150) can be arranged to extend in the front-back direction (X direction).

[0119] A pair of side cabinets (150) can be arranged opposite each other.

[0120] The cabinet (100) may include a base (170). The base (170) may form the bottom surface of the outdoor unit (10). The base (170) may be placed on one side of the lower side (-Z direction) of the machine room (R). The base (170) may support various components of the outdoor unit (10) accommodated inside the cabinet (100) from the lower side.

[0121] The base (170) can be coupled to the lower portion of each of the front cabinet (110), rear cabinet (130), and side cabinet (150).

[0122] The base (170) can be formed to have a roughly flat plate shape.

[0123] The cabinet (100) may include an outdoor fan cover (190). The outdoor fan cover (190) may form the upper surface of the outdoor unit (10).

[0124] The outdoor fan cover (190) can cover the upper side (+Z direction) of the machine room (R). The outdoor fan cover (190) can cover various parts of the outdoor unit (10) accommodated inside the cabinet (100) from the upper side.

[0125] An outdoor fan cover (190) can be attached to the top of each of the front cabinet (110), the rear cabinet (130), and a pair of side cabinets (150).

[0126] The outdoor fan cover (190) can be formed to have a roughly flat plate shape.

[0127] The outdoor fan cover (190) and base (170) can be positioned opposite each other.

[0128] Each component included in the cabinet (100) may be provided to be separable from each other. For example, the front cabinet (110) may be provided to be separable from the rear cabinet (130), a pair of side cabinets (150), a base (170), an outdoor fan cover (190), etc. For example, the outdoor fan cover (190) may be provided to be separable from the front cabinet (110), the rear cabinet (130), a pair of side cabinets (150), the base (170), etc.

[0129] Accordingly, when it is necessary to perform work such as inspecting, replacing, or repairing parts within the outdoor unit (10), the worker can perform the work by separating at least one component of the cabinet (100).

[0130] The configuration of the housing that can be included in the air conditioner according to the invention is not limited to that described above.

[0131] An outdoor heat exchanger (11) may be provided to exchange heat with outdoor air. The outdoor heat exchanger (11) may be provided to allow refrigerant to flow therein. Heat exchange between the refrigerant and outdoor air may occur in the outdoor heat exchanger (11).

[0132] For example, during cooling operation of the air conditioner (1), high-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant gas is condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger (11), and while the refrigerant is condensed, the refrigerant can release heat to the outdoor air. During cooling operation of the air conditioner (1), the outdoor heat exchanger (11) can discharge refrigerant liquid.

[0133] Additionally, during heating operation of the air conditioner (1), low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant liquid evaporates in the outdoor heat exchanger (11), and while the refrigerant evaporates, the refrigerant can absorb heat from the outdoor air. During heating operation of the air conditioner (1), the outdoor heat exchanger (11) can discharge refrigerant gas.

[0134] The outdoor heat exchanger (11) can be placed facing the inlet (131, 151) in the machine room (R).

[0135] A compressor (not shown) can compress refrigerant gas and discharge the refrigerant gas at high temperature and pressure. For example, the compressor may include a motor and a compression mechanism, and the compression mechanism can compress the refrigerant gas by the torque of the motor.

[0136] The outdoor unit (10) may include an outdoor fan (13) provided to circulate air and a fan motor (not shown) that generates rotational force for the outdoor fan (13) to rotate.

[0137] The outdoor unit (10) may include a plurality of printed circuit boards (PCBs) (200, 205, 220, 230, 240) (see FIG. 5) for controlling the operation of various components of the outdoor unit (10). Various electronic components may be mounted on the plurality of printed circuit boards (200, 205, 220, 230, 240). The outdoor unit (10) may include a control box (1000) provided to accommodate the plurality of printed circuit boards (200, 205, 220, 230, 240). The control box (1000) may be accommodated inside the cabinet (100). The control box (1000) may be placed in the machine room (R).

[0138] As illustrated in FIG. 3, for example, the control box (1000) may be located at the front of the machine room (R) and may be covered by a front cabinet (110).

[0139] The front cabinet (110) can be coupled with a frame (112). The frame (112) can support the control box (1000) from below. The frame (112) can enable the control box (1000) to be coupled to the front cabinet (110).

[0140] When the outdoor fan (13) is driven, air can flow from the control box (1000) to the machine room (R) by the suction force of the outdoor fan (13). As a result, heat generated inside the first control box (1000) can be released to the outside.

[0141] The configuration of the outdoor unit (10) described above is merely an example of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to the concept of the present disclosure, and the concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to the concept of the present disclosure may be configured in various ways so that outside air can be introduced through an inlet, and the introduced air can be heat-exchanged and then discharged to the outside.

[0142] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a control box of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a view illustrating the interior of a control box of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 4, a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing (1100), a water-cooled heat sink (300), and an air-cooled heat sink (400).

[0144] The water-cooled heat sink (300) may be configured to allow liquid to flow. Heat exchange between the refrigerant and the liquid may occur in the water-cooled heat sink (300). To release heat inside the control box (1000), the high-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant gas is condensed in the water-cooled heat sink (300), and while the refrigerant is condensing, the refrigerant may release heat to the outdoor air.

[0145] The air-cooled heat sink (400) may be configured to allow air to flow. Heat exchange between the refrigerant and air may occur in the air-cooled heat sink (400). To release heat inside the control box (1000), the high-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant gas is condensed in the air-cooled heat sink (400), and while the refrigerant is condensing, the refrigerant may release heat to the outdoor air.

[0146] The water-cooled heat sink (300) and the air-cooled heat sink (400) may be placed outside the housing (1100). Accordingly, the water-cooled heat sink (300) and the air-cooled heat sink (400) may be arranged to release heat generated from the circuit board (200, 210, 220, 230, 240) inside the control box (1000).

[0147] Referring to FIG. 5, a control box (1000) of an outdoor unit (10) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided to accommodate a plurality of printed circuit board(s).

[0148] For example, the outdoor unit (10) may include a first printed circuit board (200), a second printed circuit board (205), a third printed circuit board (220), a fourth printed circuit board (230), and a fifth printed circuit board (240).

[0149] For example, the first printed circuit board (200) can be accommodated in the control box (1000). For example, the second printed circuit board (205) can be accommodated in the control box (1000). For example, the third printed circuit board (220) can be accommodated in the control box (1000). For example, the fourth printed circuit board (230) can be accommodated in the control box (1000). For example, the fifth printed circuit board (240) can be accommodated in the control box (1000).

[0150] The control box (1000) may include a housing (1100). For example, the housing (1100) may be formed with an accommodation space (1200) for accommodating one or more printed circuit boards among a first printed circuit board (200), a second printed circuit board (205), a third printed circuit board (220), a fourth printed circuit board (230), and a fifth printed circuit board (240).

[0151] The control box (1000) may include a housing cover (not shown) that is configured to be detachably coupled to the housing (1100). The housing cover may be coupled to the housing (1100) to close the housing (1100). The housing cover may be formed in a substantially flat plate shape.

[0152] In this way, the first printed circuit board (200), the second printed circuit board (205), the third printed circuit board (220), the fourth printed circuit board (230), and the fifth printed circuit board (240) inside the housing (1100) can be protected from external impact, foreign substances flowing in from the outside, leaked refrigerant gas, etc. by the housing cover in normal times. In addition, when necessary, the housing cover can be separated, allowing the worker to access the printed circuit boards (200, 205, 220, 230, 240).

[0153] FIG. 6 is an exploded view illustrating a portion of a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is an exploded view illustrating a portion of a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0154] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, a control box (1000) of an outdoor unit (10) of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided to accommodate a case (500) that is provided to support a first printed circuit board (200). As will be described later, the case (500) may be placed inside a housing (1100).

[0155] A first printed circuit board (200) may be equipped with a heat generating module (210). A fastening member (211) may be coupled to the heat generating module (210) by penetrating the first printed circuit board (200) through a hole on the first printed circuit board (200). The fastening member (211) may be fastened to a heat sink hole (402) formed in an air-cooled heat sink (400) by penetrating the heat generating module (210). As a result, the heat generating module (210) and the air-cooled heat sink (400) may be connected.

[0156] The heating module (210) may be a module for driving a motor (not shown). Heat generation may occur in the heating module (210) due to switching loss.

[0157] The control box (1000) may include an air-cooled heat sink (400). The air-cooled heat sink (400) may be positioned outside the housing (1100) to contact air. The air-cooled heat sink (400) may release heat inside the control box (1000) through a hole formed in the housing (1100). The heat generating module (210) may be provided to penetrate the case (500), the sealing material (600), and the housing (1100) and come into contact with the air-cooled heat sink (400).

[0158] The control box (1000) may include a sealant (600) that fills the gap between the housing (1100) and the case (500). The sealant (600) may be placed between the housing (1100) and the case (500). The sealant (600) may be provided to prevent external foreign substances from entering the interior of the housing (1100) through a hole formed by mounting the air-cooled heat sink (1100) to the control box (1000).

[0159] The sealant (600) may be formed of a rubber material. The sealant (600) may be hardened by factors such as ozone and sunlight. The sealant (600) may be torn or otherwise damaged by the surrounding environment.

[0160] A fastening hole (510) may be formed in the case (500). A fastening member (501) may penetrate the case (500) through the fastening hole (510) formed in the case (500). An air-cooled heat sink (400) may be fixed to the case (500) through the fastening member (501).

[0161] The first printed circuit board (200) can be fixed to the case (500) via a fastening member (201).

[0162] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0163] Referring to FIG. 8, a control box (1000) according to one embodiment may be arranged so that a heat generating module (210) mounted on a first printed circuit board (200) is in contact with an air-cooled heat sink (400).

[0164] A module hole (513, see Fig. 9) for the heat generating module (210) to pass through may be formed in the case (500). A hole for the heat generating module (210) to pass through may be formed in the sealing material (600).

[0165] Fig. 9 is a front view of a case included in a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a case included in a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0166] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the case (500) may include a plate (550). The plate (550) may extend in the vertical direction.

[0167] A means for coupling a first printed circuit board (200) may be provided on the plate (550). A fastening member (201) may penetrate the first printed circuit board (200) and be coupled to a circuit board support hole (502) formed on the plate (550). A circuit board support rib (503) may be provided on the plate (550) and coupled to a hole formed on the first printed circuit board (200). Through this, the case (500) may support the first printed circuit board (200).

[0168] The case (500) may include a substrate support (540) that surrounds the lower edge of the first printed circuit board (200). The substrate support (540) may protrude from the plate (550). The substrate support (540) may include a drain hole (541) that is provided to allow water that has entered the case (500) to be discharged through the bottom of the case.

[0169] The case (500) may include a water guide protruding from the plate. The water guide may be formed to discharge water entering the case (500) downward toward the exterior of the case (500).

[0170] The water guide may include an inclined rib (522) that guides water introduced into the case (500) and drawn downward toward the drain hole (541). The inclined rib (522) may be inclined downward toward the drain hole (541).

[0171] The plate (550) may include a fastening hole (510) to which a fastening member (501) for fixing the air-cooled heat sink (400) to the case (500) is coupled. Moisture may enter the case (500) through the fastening hole (510).

[0172] The water guide may include a vertical rib (523). The vertical rib (523) may extend in the direction in which the plate (550) extends. The vertical rib (523) may extend vertically. The lower end of the vertical rib (523) may be connected to the upper end of the inclined rib (522). The vertical rib (523) may guide water introduced through the fastening hole (510) to the inclined rib (522).

[0173] The fastening hole (510) may include an upper fastening hole (511) and a lower fastening hole (512). The fastening member may pass through the upper fastening hole (511) and be fastened to a heat sink hole (401, see FIG. 7) formed at the upper portion among the plurality of heat sink holes (401, see FIG. 7) formed in the air-cooled heat sink (400). The fastening member may pass through the lower fastening hole (512) and be fastened to a heat sink hole (401) formed at the lower portion among the plurality of heat sink holes (401) formed in the air-cooled heat sink (400).

[0174] The water guide may include a drainage rib (520). The drainage rib (520) may be configured to surround a portion of the periphery of the upper fastening hole (511). The drainage rib (520) may guide water flowing in through the upper fastening hole (511) to the vertical rib (523). The lower end of the drainage rib (520) may be inclined downward toward the vertical rib (523).

[0175] A module hole (513) may be formed in the case (500) for the heat generating module (210) to pass through. Moisture may enter the case through the module hole (513).

[0176] The water guide may include a cover rib (521). The cover rib (521) may be formed to surround a portion of the periphery of the lower fastening hole (512). The cover rib (521) may be formed to surround the upper portion of the lower fastening hole (512). The cover rib (521) may be provided to prevent water flowing in through the module hole (513) or the upper fastening hole (511) from reaching the lower fastening hole (512). The cover rib (521) may be arch-shaped.

[0177] The case (500) may include a reinforcing rib (530) to reinforce the rigidity of the plate (550). The reinforcing rib (530) may be formed to intersect with the vertical rib (523). The reinforcing rib (530) may be provided in multiple numbers. Some of the plurality of reinforcing ribs (530) may be formed lower than the vertical rib (523).

[0178] Some (531) of the plurality of reinforcing ribs (530) may be positioned below the lower fastening hole (512). The reinforcing rib (531) positioned below the lower fastening hole (512) may be formed lower than the cover rib (521) to enable water flowing in through the lower fastening hole (512) to flow downward.

[0179] Some (532) of the plurality of reinforcing ribs (530) may be formed at a position where water flows downward through the vertical ribs (523). The reinforcing ribs (532) formed at a position where water flows downward through the vertical ribs (523) may be formed lower than the vertical ribs (523) to enable water to flow toward the inclined ribs (522).

[0180] Some (533) of the plurality of reinforcing ribs (530) may be formed under the module hole (513). The reinforcing rib (533) formed under the module hole (513) may be formed lower than the cover rib (521) to enable water to flow toward the drain hole (541).

[0181] Referring to FIG. 5, a control box (1000) according to one embodiment is illustrated in which a first printed circuit board (200) to which an air-cooling heat sink (400) is applied is positioned at the bottom of the control box (1000) so that even if water is drained under the first printed circuit board (200), it does not affect other printed circuit boards (205, 220, 230, 240), but is not limited thereto, and a structure may be included to prevent water guided downward of the case (500) from reaching other printed circuit boards even if other printed circuit boards are positioned under the first printed circuit board (200) to which an air-cooling heat sink (400) is applied. The control box (1000) may include an additional guide structure to prevent water discharged from the case through the drain hole (541) from reaching the other printed circuit board when another printed circuit board is placed under the first printed circuit board (200).

[0182] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a case included in a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0183] Referring to FIG. 11, the control box (1000) of the outdoor unit (10) of the air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment includes a case (500) from which some reinforcing ribs (530) are removed from the case (500) of FIG. 10.

[0184] Among the plurality of reinforcing ribs (530) of FIG. 10, some of the reinforcing ribs (531, 532, 533) may be formed lower than the vertical ribs (523). Preferably, some of the reinforcing ribs (531, 532, 533) may be 50% or less of the height of the vertical ribs (523). Some of the reinforcing ribs (531, 532, 533) may be 0% of the height of the vertical ribs (523). In this case, some of the reinforcing ribs (531, 532, 533) may be removed from the plate as illustrated in FIG. 11.

[0185] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a case included in a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a case included in a control box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0186] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the control box of the outdoor unit (10) of the air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include a printed circuit board (not shown) on which a plurality of heat generating modules are mounted. A case (500) supporting the printed circuit board on which a plurality of heat generating modules are mounted may have a plurality of module holes (513, 713) formed therein, as illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13.

[0187] The plurality of heating modules may be a first heating module and a second heating module. The plurality of module holes may be a first module hole (513) and a second module hole (713).

[0188] The case (500) may be formed with a fastening hole (510, 710) through which a fastening member may pass in order to couple the heat sink (400). The fastening hole (510, 710) may include a first fastening hole (510) and a second fastening hole (710).

[0189] A first upper fastening hole (511) may be formed above the first module hole (513). The case (500) may include a first drainage rib (520) that guides water flowing in through the first upper fastening hole (511) to a vertical rib (523). The first drainage rib (520) may be formed to protrude toward the inside of the case (500). The lower end of the first drainage rib (520) may be inclined downward toward the vertical rib (523).

[0190] A first lower fastening hole (512) may be formed below the first module hole (513). The case (500) may include a first cover rib (521) to prevent water flowing in through the first module hole (513) or the first upper fastening hole (511) from reaching the first lower fastening hole (512). The first cover rib (521) may cover the top of the first lower fastening hole (512).

[0191] A second upper fastening hole (711) may be formed above the second module hole (713). The case (500) may include a second drainage rib (720) that guides water flowing in through the second upper fastening hole (711) to a vertical rib (523). The second drainage rib (720) may be formed to protrude toward the inside of the case (500). The lower end of the second drainage rib (720) may be inclined downward toward the vertical rib (523).

[0192] A second lower fastening hole (712) may be formed below the second module hole (713). The case (500) may include a second cover rib (721) to prevent water flowing in through the second module hole (713) or the second upper fastening hole (711) from reaching the second lower fastening hole (712). The second cover rib (721) may cover the top of the second lower fastening hole (712).

[0193] An outdoor unit (10) of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment includes a cabinet (100), an outdoor heat exchanger disposed inside the cabinet (100) for exchanging heat with outdoor air, and a control box (1000) disposed inside the cabinet (100) for accommodating a circuit board (200) equipped with a heat generating module (210), wherein the control box (1000) includes a cabinet (100), a heat sink (400) disposed outside the cabinet (100) and provided to receive heat from the heat generating module (210) to release heat generated from the heat generating module (210), and a case (500) disposed inside the cabinet (100) and provided to support the circuit board (200), wherein the case (500) includes a plate (550) extending vertically and a plate (550) for guiding water flowing into the control box (1000) downward of the case (500). It includes a water guide protruding from the plate (550).

[0194] The case (500) further includes a substrate support portion (540) protruding from the plate (550) to surround the lower edge of the circuit board (200), and the substrate support portion (540) may include a drain hole (541) formed to discharge water guided from the water guide to the bottom of the case (500).

[0195] The above water guide may include an inclined rib (522) that slopes downward toward the drain hole (541) to guide water toward the drain hole (541).

[0196] The above plate (550) includes a fastening hole (510) to which a fastening member for fixing the heat sink (400) to the case (500) is coupled, and the lower end of the inclined rib (522) can be positioned below the fastening hole (510) so that water flowing into the control box (1000) through the fastening hole (510) can be guided to the drain hole (541).

[0197] The above water guide further includes a vertical rib (523) extending vertically to guide water flowing in through the fastening hole (510) to the inclined rib (522), and the upper end of the inclined rib (522) can be connected to the lower end of the vertical rib (523).

[0198] The above water guide further includes a drainage rib (520), and the lower end of the drainage rib (520) can be inclined downward toward the vertical rib (523) to guide water flowing in through the fastening hole (510) to the vertical rib (523).

[0199] The above plate (550) includes a module hole (513) formed so that the heat generating module (210) penetrates the plate (550) and comes into contact with the heat sink (400), and a fastening hole (510) formed at the lower portion of the module hole (513) so that a fastening member for fixing the heat sink (400) to the case (500) is coupled, and the water guide includes a cover rib (521), and the cover rib (521) can surround the fastening hole (510) in an arch shape to guide water flowing in through the module hole (513) to the bottom of the case (500).

[0200] The above fastening hole (510) includes an upper fastening hole (511) and a lower fastening hole (512) arranged in a vertical direction, and the cover rib (521) can cover the upper portion of the lower fastening hole (512) to prevent water flowing in through the upper fastening hole (511) from reaching the lower fastening hole (512).

[0201] Water guided through the cover rib (521) can be discharged downward toward the outside of the case (500) through the drain hole (541).

[0202] The case (500) may include a plurality of reinforcing ribs (530) protruding from the inner surface of the plate (550) to reinforce the rigidity of the plate (550), and the plate (550) may include a fastening hole (510) to which a fastening member (501) for fastening the heat sink (400) to the case (500) is coupled.

[0203] The above water guide includes a cover rib (521) that surrounds the upper portion of the fastening hole (510) to prevent water flowing in from above the fastening hole (510) from flowing into the fastening hole (510), and some of the plurality of reinforcing ribs (530) may be positioned below the fastening hole (510) and formed lower than the cover rib (521) to allow water flowing in through the fastening hole (510) to flow downward.

[0204] The water guide includes a vertical rib (523) extending vertically to guide water flowing in through the fastening hole (510) to the lower portion of the case (500), and some of the plurality of reinforcing ribs (530) may be formed lower than the vertical rib (523) to guide water guided from the vertical rib (523) to the lower portion of the case (500).

[0205] The above control box (1000) may include a sealant (600) that is placed between the cabinet (100) and the case (500) and fills the gap between the cabinet (100) and the case (500).

[0206] The case (500) is placed between the circuit board (200) and the sealant (600), and the heat generating module (210) may be arranged to penetrate the case (500), the sealant, and the cabinet (100) and come into contact with the heat sink (400).

[0207] An outdoor unit (10) of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment includes a cabinet (100), a heat exchanger disposed inside the cabinet (100) for exchanging heat with outdoor air, and a control box (1000) disposed inside the cabinet (100) for accommodating a circuit board (200) having a plurality of heat generating modules (210) mounted thereon, wherein the control box (1000) includes a cabinet (100), a heat sink (400) disposed outside the cabinet (100) and configured to receive heat from the plurality of heat generating modules (210) to release heat generated from the plurality of heat generating modules (210), and a case (500) disposed inside the cabinet (100) and configured to support the circuit board (200), wherein the case (500) includes a plate (550) extending in a vertical direction, a substrate protruding from the plate (550) to surround a lower edge of the circuit board (200). It includes a water guide protruding from the plate (550) to guide water flowing into the support member (540) and the control box (1000) toward the lower part of the case (500).

[0208] The above plate (550) may include a plurality of module holes (513, 713) formed so that the plurality of heat generating modules (210) penetrate the plate (550) and come into contact with the heat sink (400), and a fastening hole (510, 710) to which a fastening member (501) for fixing the heat sink (400) to the case (500) is coupled, and may include a drain hole (541, 741) formed so that water introduced through the plurality of module holes (513, 713) and the fastening holes (510, 710) is discharged downward toward the outside of the case (500).

[0209] The above drain holes (541, 741) are provided in multiple numbers to correspond to the plurality of module holes (513, 713), and each of the plurality of drain holes (541, 741) can be formed in the substrate support member (540).

[0210] The water guide may include an inclined rib (522, 722) that slopes downward toward the drain hole (541, 741) to guide water flowing into the case (500) to the drain hole (541, 741) and a vertical rib (523) that extends vertically to guide water flowing into the case (500) to the inclined rib (522, 722).

[0211] The plate (550) may include a fastening hole (510, 710) to which a fastening member for fixing the case (500) to the case (500) is coupled, the fastening hole (510) may include an upper fastening hole (511, 711) and a lower fastening hole (512, 712) arranged in a vertical direction, and the water guide may include a drainage rib (520) formed to be inclined toward the vertical rib (523) to guide water flowing in from the upper fastening hole (511, 711) to the vertical rib (523), and a cover rib (521) covering the upper portion of the lower fastening hole (510) to prevent water flowing in from the upper fastening hole (511, 711) from reaching the lower fastening hole (512, 712).

[0212] The case (500) may include a reinforcing rib (530) protruding from the inner surface of the plate (550) to reinforce the rigidity of the plate (550).

[0213] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the outdoor unit of the air conditioner includes a structure for draining moisture that has entered the control box, so that moisture that has entered the interior of the control box can be discharged to the exterior of the control box.

[0214] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, the outdoor unit of the air conditioner includes a rib that prevents water from coming into contact with a printed circuit board accommodated in the control box, thereby preventing a fire from occurring due to flammable materials coming into contact with electronic components or wires inside the control box.

[0215] According to the invention of the present invention, the outdoor unit of an air conditioner includes an air-cooled heat sink communicating with the outside and a plurality of ribs guiding water to flow downward, thereby preventing a printed circuit board from being damaged.

[0216] 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.

[0217] 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. Cabinet; An outdoor heat exchanger placed inside the cabinet and exchanging heat with outdoor air; and A control box is included that accommodates a circuit board mounted on a heating module and is placed inside the cabinet. The above control box, Housing, A heat sink arranged on the outside of the housing and configured to receive heat from the heat generating module to release heat generated from the heat generating module, and A case is provided that is arranged inside the housing and supports the circuit board, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein the case includes a plate extending vertically and a water guide protruding from the plate to guide water flowing into the control box downwards of the case.

2. In paragraph 1, The case further includes a substrate support portion protruding from the plate to surround the lower edge of the circuit board, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein the substrate support part includes a drain hole formed to discharge water guided from the water guide to the bottom of the case.

3. In paragraph 2, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein the water guide includes an inclined rib that slopes downward toward the drain hole to guide water toward the drain hole.

4. In paragraph 3, The above plate includes a fastening hole to which a fastening member for fixing the heat sink to the case is coupled, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner in which the lower end of the inclined rib is located below the fastening hole so as to guide water flowing into the control box through the fastening hole to the drain hole.

5. In paragraph 4, The above water guide further includes a vertical rib extending vertically to guide water flowing in through the fastening hole to the inclined rib, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner in which the upper part of the above-mentioned inclined rib is connected to the lower part of the above-mentioned vertical rib.

6. In paragraph 5, The above water guide further includes a drainage rib, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner in which the lower end of the above drainage rib is inclined downward toward the vertical rib to guide water flowing in through the above fastening hole to the vertical rib.

7. In paragraph 2, The above plate includes a module hole formed so that the heating module penetrates the plate and comes into contact with the heat sink, and a fastening hole formed at the bottom of the module hole so that a fastening member for fastening the heat sink to the case is coupled. The above water guide includes a cover rib, The above cover rib is an outdoor unit of an air conditioner that surrounds the fastening hole in an arch shape to guide water flowing in through the module hole to the bottom of the case.

8. In paragraph 7, The above fastening holes include upper fastening holes and lower fastening holes arranged in a vertical direction, The above cover rib is an outdoor unit of an air conditioner that covers the upper portion of the lower fastening hole to prevent water flowing in through the upper fastening hole from reaching the lower fastening hole.

9. In paragraph 7, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner in which water guided through the above cover rib is discharged downward toward the outside of the case through the above drain hole.

10. In paragraph 1, The case includes a plurality of reinforcing ribs protruding from the inner surface of the plate to reinforce the rigidity of the plate, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein the above plate includes a fastening hole to which a fastening member for fastening the heat sink to the case is coupled.

11. In paragraph 10, The above water guide includes a cover rib that surrounds the top of the fastening hole to prevent water flowing from above the fastening hole from flowing into the fastening hole. An outdoor unit of an air conditioner in which some of the plurality of reinforcing ribs are positioned below the fastening hole and formed lower than the cover rib so that water flowing in through the fastening hole can flow downward.

12. In paragraph 10, The above water guide includes a vertical rib extending vertically to guide water flowing in through the fastening hole to the lower part of the case, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein some of the plurality of reinforcing ribs are formed lower than the vertical ribs to guide water guided from the vertical ribs to the bottom of the case.

13. In paragraph 1, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein the control box is disposed between the housing and the case and includes a sealant that fills the gap between the housing and the case.

14. In paragraph 13, The case is placed between the circuit board and the sealant, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner in which the above-mentioned heating module penetrates the case, sealant, and housing and is provided to come into contact with the heat sink.

15. Cabinet; A heat exchanger placed inside the cabinet and exchanging heat with outdoor air; and A control box is provided inside the cabinet and houses a circuit board equipped with a plurality of heating modules, The above control box, Housing, A heat sink arranged on the outside of the housing and configured to receive heat from the plurality of heat generating modules to release heat generated from the plurality of heat generating modules, and A case is provided that is arranged inside the housing and supports the circuit board, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein the case includes a plate extending vertically, a substrate support portion protruding from the plate to surround the lower edge of the circuit board, and a water guide protruding from the plate to guide water flowing into the control box downwards of the case.

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