Outdoor machine and refrigeration cycle device

Abstract

An outdoor machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a pipe through which a refrigerant flows; a compressor to which the pipe is connected and which compresses the refrigerant; a heat exchanger to which the pipe is connected; and a housing that has provided therein a machine chamber in which the compressor is disposed and a heat exchange chamber in which the heat exchanger is disposed. The heat exchanger includes: a first heat exchange unit and a second heat exchange unit that are disposed in a letter-L like manner; a connection pipe that connects the first heat exchange unit and the second heat exchange unit; and a cover member. The cover member extends in the vertical direction and is fixed to a first lateral plate of the first heat exchange unit and a second lateral plate of the second heat exchange unit, and covers a gap between the first heat exchange unit and the second heat exchange unit.

Description

Outdoor unit and refrigeration cycle device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an outdoor unit and a refrigeration cycle device.

[0002] A typical refrigeration cycle device has a housing, an outdoor unit provided with a heat exchanger and a blower disposed inside the housing. Patent Document 1 discloses an outdoor unit having two heat exchangers disposed along the back and side of the housing, respectively, and connected to each other by piping.

[0003] JP 2010-107102 A

[0004] The two heat exchangers in Patent Document 1 are arranged in an L-shape when viewed from above, which creates a gap between the heat exchangers, causing a problem in that part of the airflow generated by the blower fan passes through the gap, reducing the heat exchange efficiency.

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, one object of the present disclosure is to provide an outdoor unit that can improve heat exchange efficiency, and a refrigeration cycle apparatus including such an outdoor unit.

[0006] One aspect of the outdoor unit according to the present disclosure includes a piping through which a refrigerant flows, a compressor connected to the piping and configured to compress the refrigerant, a heat exchanger connected to the piping, a machine room in which the compressor is disposed, and a housing in which a heat exchange chamber in which the heat exchanger is disposed is provided, wherein directions orthogonal to a vertical direction and intersecting each other are defined as a first direction and a second direction, the heat exchanger has a first heat exchange portion extending in the first direction as viewed from the vertical direction, a second heat exchange portion extending in the second direction as viewed from the vertical direction, connecting piping connecting the first heat exchange portion and the second heat exchange portion, and a cover member, and the first heat exchange portion includes a first core having a plurality of first heat transfer tubes extending in the vertical direction and first fins located between the plurality of first heat transfer tubes, a first lower header connected to lower ends of the plurality of first heat transfer tubes, and a first side of the first core in the first direction. the second heat exchange section has a second core having a plurality of second heat transfer tubes extending in the vertical direction and second fins located between the plurality of second heat transfer tubes, a second lower header connected to the lower ends of the plurality of second heat transfer tubes, and a second side plate located at the end of the second core on a second side in the second direction and extending in the vertical direction, at least a portion of the first core is located on the second side in the second direction relative to the second core, and at least a portion of the second core is located on the first side in the first direction relative to the first core, the heat exchange chamber has an intermediate region overlapping the first core when viewed from the first direction and overlapping the second core when viewed from the second direction, and the cover member extends in the vertical direction and is fixed to the first side plate and the second side plate, covering the intermediate region from the first side and the second side.

[0007] One aspect of a refrigeration cycle apparatus according to the present disclosure includes the outdoor unit described above and an indoor unit to which the piping is connected.

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an outdoor unit capable of improving heat exchange efficiency, and a refrigeration cycle apparatus including such an outdoor unit.

[0009] 5 is a schematic diagram showing a general configuration of a refrigeration cycle device of an embodiment. A perspective view of an outdoor unit of an embodiment. A perspective view of a part of a housing and a heat exchanger of an embodiment. A schematic cross-sectional view of an outdoor unit of an embodiment viewed from above. A partially enlarged view of FIG. 4. A perspective view of a first heat exchange unit and a second heat exchange unit of an embodiment before assembly. A perspective view of a first heat exchange unit and a second heat exchange unit of an embodiment after assembly. A perspective view of a heat exchanger of an embodiment. A perspective view showing a process of assembling a heat exchanger and a bottom plate member of an embodiment. A perspective view of a process of assembling a heat exchanger and a bottom plate member of an embodiment. A cross-sectional view of the outdoor unit taken along line XI-XI of FIG. 5.

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments and can be modified as desired within the scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure. Furthermore, in the following drawings, the scale and number of components in each structure may differ from the scale and number of components in the actual structure in order to make each configuration easier to understand. In particular, in each drawing, the shapes of the first core 40A and the second core 50A are shown in a simplified form.

[0011] The drawings also show the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis as appropriate. The X-axis indicates one horizontal direction. The Y-axis indicates the other horizontal direction. The Z-axis indicates the up-down direction. In the following description, the horizontal direction along the X-axis is referred to as the "front-rear direction X," the horizontal direction along the Y-axis is referred to as the "left-right direction Y," and the up-down direction along the Z-axis is referred to as the "up-down direction Z." The front-rear direction X, left-right direction Y, and up-down direction Z are perpendicular to each other. In the following description, the side of the up-down direction Z toward which the arrow on the Z-axis points (+Z) is referred to as the upper side, and the side of the up-down direction Z opposite to the side toward which the arrow on the Z-axis points (-Z) is referred to as the lower side. Furthermore, the side of the front-rear direction X toward which the arrow on the X-axis points (+X) is referred to as the front side, and the side of the front-rear direction X opposite to the side toward which the arrow on the X-axis points (-X) is referred to as the rear side. The left-right direction Y refers to the left-right direction when the outdoor unit of the following embodiment is viewed from the front (+X). That is, the side (+Y) of the left-right direction Y toward which the Y-axis arrow points is defined as the right side, and the side (-Y) opposite to the side toward which the Y-axis arrow points is defined as the left side.

[0012] In the following embodiments, of the "first direction" and "second direction" that are orthogonal to the up-down direction Z and intersect each other, the left-right direction Y corresponds to the "first direction" and the front-rear direction X corresponds to the "second direction." The left side (-Y) corresponds to the "first side" of the first direction, and the right side (+Y) corresponds to the opposite side of the first side. The rear side (-X) corresponds to the "second side" of the second direction.

[0013] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a general configuration of a refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 according to an embodiment. The refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 is an apparatus that utilizes a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant R circulates. In the embodiment, the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 is an air conditioner. As shown in Fig. 1, the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 includes an outdoor unit 10, an indoor unit 20, and a circulation path portion 18.

[0014] The outdoor unit 10 is disposed outdoors. The indoor unit 20 is disposed indoors. The outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20 are connected to each other by a circulation path section (piping) 18 through which a refrigerant R circulates. The outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20 are heat exchange units that exchange heat with the air. The refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 can adjust the temperature of the air in the room where the indoor unit 20 is disposed by exchanging heat between the refrigerant R flowing in the circulation path section 18 and the air in the room.

[0015] Examples of the refrigerant R flowing through the circulation path 18 include fluorine-based refrigerants or hydrocarbon-based refrigerants with low global warming potential (GWP). Examples of the refrigerant R include a single refrigerant such as R1234yf, R1234ze, R32, or R290, a mixture of two or more of these, or a mixture of any of these with other refrigerants. Examples of the refrigerant R include a mixture containing R1132(E) or a mixture containing R1123. Examples of the refrigerant R include a mixture of R516A, R445A, R444A, R454C, R444B, R454A, R455A, R457A, R459B, R452B, R454B, R447B, R447A, R446A, and R459A.

[0016] The outdoor unit 10 includes a housing 11, a compressor 12, a heat exchanger 30, an expansion valve 14, a blower fan 15, a four-way valve 16, a control unit 17, and a receiver 13. The housing 11 houses the compressor 12, the heat exchanger 30, the expansion valve 14, the blower fan 15, the four-way valve 16, the control unit 17, and the receiver 13. The control unit 17 controls each part of the outdoor unit 10. The control unit 17 is, for example, a system control unit that oversees the overall control of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100.

[0017] The compressor 12, the heat exchanger 30, the expansion valve 14, the four-way valve 16, and the receiver 13 are provided in a portion of the circulation path 18 that is located inside the housing 11. The compressor 12, the heat exchanger 30, the expansion valve 14, the four-way valve 16, and the receiver 13 are connected by a portion of the circulation path 18 that is located inside the housing 11.

[0018] The four-way valve 16 is provided in a portion of the circulation path portion 18 that is connected to the discharge side of the compressor 12. The four-way valve 16 can reverse the direction of the refrigerant R flowing through the circulation path portion 18 by switching a portion of the path of the circulation path portion 18. When the path connected by the four-way valve 16 is the path shown by the solid line on the four-way valve 16 in Fig. 1, the refrigerant R flows through the circulation path portion 18 in the direction shown by the solid arrow in Fig. 1. On the other hand, when the path connected by the four-way valve 16 is the path shown by the dashed line on the four-way valve 16 in Fig. 1, the refrigerant R flows through the circulation path portion 18 in the direction shown by the dashed arrow in Fig. 1.

[0019] The indoor unit 20 has a housing 21, a heat exchanger 22, and a blower 23. The heat exchanger 22 and the blower 23 are housed inside the housing 21. The indoor unit 20 is capable of cooling operation to cool the air in the room where the indoor unit 20 is located, and heating operation to warm the air in the room where the indoor unit 20 is located.

[0020] When the indoor unit 20 is in cooling operation, the refrigerant R flowing through the circulation path portion 18 flows in the direction shown by the solid arrow in Fig. 1. In other words, when the indoor unit 20 is in cooling operation, the refrigerant R flowing through the circulation path portion 18 circulates through the compressor 12, the heat exchanger 30 of the outdoor unit 10, the expansion valve 14, the heat exchanger 22 of the indoor unit 20, and the receiver 13 in that order, before returning to the compressor 12. During cooling operation, the heat exchanger 30 in the outdoor unit 10 functions as a condenser, and the heat exchanger 22 in the indoor unit 20 functions as an evaporator.

[0021] On the other hand, when the indoor unit 20 is in heating operation, the refrigerant R flowing in the circulation path portion 18 flows in the direction shown by the dashed line in Fig. 1. In other words, when the indoor unit 20 is in heating operation, the refrigerant R flowing in the circulation path portion 18 circulates through the compressor 12, the heat exchanger 22 of the indoor unit 20, the expansion valve 14, the heat exchanger 30 of the outdoor unit 10, and the receiver 13 in that order, before returning to the compressor 12. During heating operation, the heat exchanger 30 in the outdoor unit 10 functions as an evaporator, and the heat exchanger 22 in the indoor unit 20 functions as a condenser.

[0022] Next, the outdoor unit 10 of this embodiment will be described in further detail. Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing the outdoor unit 10. Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing a part of the housing 11 and the heat exchanger 30. Fig. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the outdoor unit 10 as seen from above. Fig. 5 is a partially enlarged view of Fig. 4.

[0023] 2, the housing 11 is a substantially rectangular box-like shape having surfaces facing the front-rear direction X, the left-right direction Y, and the up-down direction Z. As shown in FIG. 2, the housing 11 has a top plate member 11a, a bottom plate member 11b, and a surrounding wall portion 11c.

[0024] The surrounding wall portion 11c horizontally surrounds the internal space of the housing 11. A front panel 11k of the surrounding wall portion 11c, which is located on the front side (+X) of the internal space, is provided with an air outlet 11h. The air outlet 11h is located on the front side (+X) of the blower fan 15. A fan grill G that covers the air outlet 11h is attached to the front panel 11k.

[0025] The top plate member 11a covers the internal space of the housing 11 from above. The top plate member 11a has a top plate portion 11d and a first folded portion 11e. The top plate portion 11d is a rectangular plate extending along a plane perpendicular to the up-down direction Z. The first folded portion 11e extends downward from the outer edge of the top plate portion 11d. The first folded portion 11e is in the shape of a rectangular frame. The first folded portion 11e extends along the outer surface of the surrounding wall portion 11c. The first folded portion 11e is fixed to the surrounding wall portion 11c with screws. In other words, the top plate member 11a is fixed to the surrounding wall portion 11c at the first folded portion 11e.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 3 , the bottom plate member 11b covers the internal space of the housing 11 from below. The bottom plate member 11b has a bottom plate portion 11f and a second folded portion 11g. The bottom plate portion 11f is a rectangular plate extending along a plane perpendicular to the up-down direction Z. The second folded portion 11g extends upward from the outer edge of the bottom plate portion 11f. The second folded portion 11g is in the shape of a rectangular frame. The second folded portion 11g extends along the inner surface of the surrounding wall portion 11c. The second folded portion 11g is fixed to the surrounding wall portion 11c with screws. In other words, the top plate member 11a is fixed to the surrounding wall portion 11c at the second folded portion 11g.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 4 , the housing 11 is provided with a heat exchange chamber A1 and a machine chamber A2. The heat exchange chamber A1 and the machine chamber A2 are aligned in the left-right direction Y. The heat exchange chamber A1 is located to the left (-Y) of the machine chamber A2. The heat exchange chamber A1 and the machine chamber A2 are separated by a partition plate 11t extending in the front-rear direction X. That is, the partition plate 11t is provided in the internal space of the housing 11. The heat exchanger 30 and the blower fan 15 are disposed in the heat exchange chamber A1. The compressor 12 is disposed in the machine chamber A2. Although not shown in FIG. 4 , the machine chamber A2 is also provided with a control unit 17, a four-way valve 16, and a receiver 13.

[0028] In this embodiment, the blower fan 15 is a propeller fan. The blower fan 15 has a rotor 15a that can rotate about a rotation axis J that extends in the front-to-rear direction X, and a motor 15b that rotates the rotor 15a. The rotation axis J is a virtual axis that extends in the front-to-rear direction X. That is, in this embodiment, the axial direction of the rotation axis J is the front-to-rear direction X. The rotor 15a is disposed inside the housing 11 so as to face the air outlet 11h.

[0029] As the rotor 15a rotates, air AF is sucked into the internal space of the housing 11 from the rear (-X) and left (-Y) sides of the housing 11. The air AF sucked into the housing 11 by the rotor 15a passes through the heat exchanger 30 and the rotor 15a and is blown out of the housing 11 through the outlet 11h. The heat exchanger 30 exchanges heat between the air AF sucked into the housing 11 and the refrigerant R.

[0030] The heat exchanger 30 includes a first heat exchange unit 40, a second heat exchange unit 50, a connecting pipe 39, and a cover member 60. The first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50 are arranged in an L-shape. The first heat exchange unit 40 extends along a plane perpendicular to the front-to-rear direction X. The first heat exchange unit 40 is located behind (-X) the blower fan 15. The second heat exchange unit 50 extends along a plane perpendicular to (Y) the left-to-right direction Y. The second heat exchange unit 50 is located in front (+X) and to the left (-Y) of the first heat exchange unit 40. The second heat exchange unit 50 is also located to the left (-Y) of the blower fan 15.

[0031] In this specification, "arranged in an L-shape" does not mean that the two parts are arranged perpendicular to each other, but rather that the two parts are arranged so that they extend linearly in different directions from their respective ends. Therefore, when viewed from the vertical direction Z, the directions in which the first heat exchanger 40 and the second heat exchanger 50 extend do not necessarily have to be perpendicular to each other.

[0032] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the first heat exchange section 40 and the second heat exchange section 50 of this embodiment before assembly. Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the first heat exchange section 40 and the second heat exchange section 50 of this embodiment after assembly. Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the heat exchanger 30 of this embodiment. Fig. 6 partially shows the detailed structures of the first heat exchange section 40 and the second heat exchange section 50.

[0033] The first heat exchange unit 40 has two first lower headers 41, 42, two pipe connections 46a, 46b, one first row header 43, a plurality of first heat transfer tubes 44, and a plurality of first corrugated fins (first fins) 45. The first heat exchange unit 40 performs heat exchange in the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 44 and the first corrugated fins 45. The plurality of first heat transfer tubes 44 and the first corrugated fins 45 constitute a first core 40A. That is, the first heat exchange unit 40 has the first core 40A.

[0034] The first lower headers 41, 42 and the first row transfer header 43 are arranged opposite each other in the up-down direction Z. The two first lower headers 41, 42 are also arranged side by side in the front-to-rear direction X (i.e., the direction in which air AF is drawn in). Each of the first lower headers 41, 42 and the first row transfer header 43 are connected by a plurality of first heat transfer tubes 44 arranged side by side in the left-to-right direction Y. Therefore, the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 44 are arranged in two rows, and each row is arranged side by side in the front-to-rear direction X.

[0035] A pipe connection 46a is provided at the right (+Y) end of one first lower header 42. A pipe connection 46b is provided at the left (-Y) end of the other first lower header 41. In this embodiment, the first inlet / outlet pipe 37 (see FIG. 4) is connected to one pipe connection 46a, and the connection pipe 39 (see FIG. 7) is connected to the other pipe connection 46b.

[0036] When the first heat exchange unit functions as a condenser, one of the first lower headers 41 serves as a gas header through which gas refrigerant R (including gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant R) passes and branches the refrigerant R. The other first lower header 42 serves as a liquid header through which liquid refrigerant R (including gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant R) passes and merges the refrigerant R.

[0037] The first row transfer header 43 serves as a bridge, joining the refrigerant R flowing in from the group of first heat transfer tubes 44 in one row and branching it out to the group of first heat transfer tubes 44 in the other row.

[0038] The first heat transfer tube 44 has a flattened cross section. The longitudinal direction of the flattened shape of the first heat transfer tube 44 is the front-rear direction X. In this embodiment, the first heat transfer tube 44 is preferably a multi-hole heat transfer tube having a plurality of holes therein that serve as flow paths for the refrigerant R. The interior of the first heat transfer tube 44 communicates with the interiors of the first lower headers 41, 42 and the first inter-row header 43.

[0039] The first corrugated fins 45 are disposed between the opposing flat surfaces of the first heat transfer tubes 44 aligned in the left-right direction Y. The first corrugated fins 45 are arranged to increase the heat transfer area between the refrigerant R and the outside air. Here, the first corrugated fins 45 are described as being used as the fins in the first heat exchange section 40, but the shape of the fins is not particularly limited, and fins of other shapes may be used.

[0040] Similar to the first heat exchange unit 40, the second heat exchange unit 50 includes two second lower headers 51, 52, two pipe connections 56a, 56b, one second row header 53, a plurality of second heat transfer tubes 54, and a plurality of second corrugated fins (second fins) 55. The second heat exchange unit 50 performs heat exchange between the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 54 and the second corrugated fins 55. The plurality of second heat transfer tubes 54 and the second corrugated fins 55 form a second core 50A. The second heat exchange unit 50 differs from the first heat exchange unit 40 in its orientation within the housing 11 and the number of second heat transfer tubes 54 aligned in the front-rear direction X. In the second heat exchange unit 50, the two second lower headers 51, 52 are aligned in the left-right direction Y (i.e., the direction in which air AF is drawn in). Each of the second lower headers 51, 52 and the second row connecting header 53 is connected by a plurality of second heat transfer tubes 54 aligned in the front-rear direction X. Therefore, the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 54 are aligned in two rows, and the rows are aligned in the left-right direction Y.

[0041] In the second heat exchange section 50, a pipe connection 56a is provided at the rear (-X) end of one second lower header 52. A pipe connection 56b is provided at the front (+X) end of the other second lower header 51. In this embodiment, the connection pipe 39 (see FIG. 7) is connected to one pipe connection 56a. The second inlet / outlet pipe 38 (see FIG. 4) is connected to the other pipe connection 56b.

[0042] 7 connects the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50. The connection pipe 39 is connected to the pipe connection portion 46b of the first heat exchange unit 40 and the pipe connection portion 56a of the second heat exchange unit 50. In this embodiment, the pipe connection portions 46b and 56a are pipe-shaped, bending upward and opening upward. The connection pipe 39 is also bent in a U-shape and opening downward.

[0043] The dotted arrows in FIG. 6 indicate the flow of refrigerant R when the heat exchanger 30 is used as a condenser and a subcooler. When the heat exchanger 30 functions as a condenser or a subcooler, the refrigerant R sent from the compressor 12 flows through the first inlet / outlet pipe 37 into the first lower header 42 on the front side (+X) of the first heat exchange section 40. The refrigerant R that flows into the first lower header 42 passes through a row of first heat transfer tubes 44 on the front side (+X). The refrigerant R then turns back at the first row header 43 and passes through a row of first heat transfer tubes 44 on the rear side (-X). The first heat transfer tubes 44 exchange heat between the refrigerant R passing through the tubes and the outside air passing outside the tubes. While passing through the first heat transfer tubes 44, the refrigerant R radiates heat to the outside air. The refrigerant R flows into the first lower header 41 on the rear side (-X) of the first heat exchange section 40 and merges therewith. The refrigerant R that flows into the first lower header 41 flows via the connecting pipe 39 into the second lower header 52 on the right side (+Y) of the second heat exchange unit 50. The refrigerant R that flows into the second lower header 52 passes through a row of second heat transfer tubes 54 on the right side (+Y). The refrigerant R then turns around at the second row header 53 and passes through a row of second heat transfer tubes 54 on the left side (-Y). The second heat transfer tubes 54 exchange heat between the refrigerant R passing through the tubes and the outside air passing outside the tubes. The refrigerant R is subcooled by the outside air while passing through the second heat transfer tubes 54. The refrigerant R flows into the second lower header 51 on the left side (-Y) of the second heat exchange unit 50 and merges with the second lower header 51. The merged liquid refrigerant R is sent to the expansion valve 14 through the second inlet / outlet pipe 38 connected to the second lower header 51.

[0044] When the heat exchanger 30 is used as an evaporator, the flow of refrigerant R is opposite the direction indicated by the dotted arrow in FIG. 6 . At this time, refrigerant R sent from the compressor 12 through the expansion valve 14 flows into the second lower header 51 on the left side (−Y) of the second heat exchange unit 50 via the second inlet / outlet pipe 38. The refrigerant R flowing into the second lower header 51 passes through a row of second heat transfer tubes 54 on the left side (−Y). The refrigerant R then turns back at the second row header 53 and passes through a row of second heat transfer tubes 54 on the right side (+Y). The second heat transfer tubes 54 exchange heat between the refrigerant R passing through the tubes and the outside air passing outside the tubes. The refrigerant R absorbs heat from the outside air while passing through the second heat transfer tubes 54. The refrigerant R flows into the second lower header 52 on the right side (+Y) of the second heat exchange unit 50 and merges therewith. The refrigerant R that flows into the second lower header 52 flows through the connecting pipe 39 into the first lower header 41 on the rear side (-X) of the first heat exchange unit 40. The refrigerant R that flows into the first lower header 41 passes through a row of first heat transfer tubes 44 on the rear side (-X). The refrigerant R then turns around at the first row-to-row header 43 and passes through a row of first heat transfer tubes 44 on the front side (+Y). The first heat transfer tubes 44 exchange heat between the refrigerant R passing through the tubes and the outside air passing outside the tubes. The refrigerant R absorbs heat from the outside air while passing through the first heat transfer tubes 44. The refrigerant R flows into the first lower header 42 on the front side (+Y) of the first heat exchange unit 40 and merges with the first lower header 42. The merged refrigerant is sent to the compressor 12 through the first inlet / outlet pipe 37 connected to the first lower header 42.

[0045] As described above, the first inlet / outlet pipe 37 is connected to the piping connection portion 46a of the first heat exchange section 40, and the second inlet / outlet pipe 38 is connected to the piping connection portion 56b of the second heat exchange section 50. That is, the first inlet / outlet pipe 37 is connected to the first lower header 42, and the second inlet / outlet pipe 38 is connected to the second lower header 51. The first inlet / outlet pipe 37 and the second inlet / outlet pipe 38 are part of the circulation path portion 18 (see FIG. 1 ).

[0046] As shown in FIG. 4 , the first inlet / outlet pipe 37 extends from the right (+Y) end of the first heat exchange section 40 to the machine chamber A2. The first inlet / outlet pipe 37 is connected to the right (+Y) end of the first lower header 42. The first inlet / outlet pipe 37 extends linearly in the left-right direction Y in the heat exchange chamber A1. The second inlet / outlet pipe 38 extends from the front (+X) end of the second heat exchange section 50 to the machine chamber A2. The second inlet / outlet pipe 38 is connected to the front (+Y) end of the second lower header 51. The second inlet / outlet pipe 38 extends while bending along the heat exchanger 30 in the heat exchange chamber A1.

[0047] In this embodiment, the second inlet / outlet pipe 38 has a connecting portion 38a, a first extension portion 38b, and a second extension portion 38d. The connecting portion 38a extends from the second lower header 51 toward the right side (+Y) of the second heat exchanger 50 on the front side (+X) of the second heat exchanger 50. The first extension portion 38b is connected to the right side (+Y) end of the connecting portion 38a. The first extension portion 38b extends linearly in the front-to-rear direction X. The first extension portion 38b is located on the right side (+Y) of the second heat exchanger 50 and extends along the second lower header 52 of the second heat exchanger 50. The second extension portion 38d is connected to the rear side (-X) end of the first extension portion 38b. The second extension portion 38d is bent relative to the first extension portion 38b. The second extension portion 38d extends linearly in the left-to-right direction Y. The second extension portion 38 d is located on the front side (+X) of the first heat exchange portion 40 and extends along the first lower header 42 of the first heat exchange portion 40 .

[0048] According to this embodiment, the first inlet / outlet pipe 37 and the second inlet / outlet pipe 38 extend from opposite ends of the heat exchanger 30. This reduces the amount of inlet / outlet pipe routing within the machine room A2 compared to when two inlet / outlet pipes extend from one end of the heat exchanger, making it easier to ensure a larger interior space within the machine room A2. As a result, the degree of freedom in arranging the devices disposed within the machine room A2 is increased. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the first inlet / outlet pipe 37 and the second inlet / outlet pipe 38, which are connected to opposite ends of the heat exchanger 30, can be smoothly guided into the machine room A2. In particular, the second inlet / outlet pipe 38 is positioned in an area within the heat exchange chamber A1 that does not obstruct the flow of air. This ensures a sufficient volume of air passing through the heat exchanger 30, thereby suppressing a decrease in heat exchange efficiency.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 5 , the first core 40A of the first heat exchange unit 40 is located to the right (+Y) and rear (−X) of the second core 50A of the second heat exchange unit 50. The connection pipe 39 connects the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50 to the left (−Y) of the first core 40A and rear (−X) of the second core 50A. In this embodiment, an intermediate region B is provided to the left (−Y) of the first core 40A and rear (−X) of the second core 50A. The intermediate region B overlaps with the first core 40A when viewed from the left-right direction Y and with the second core 50A when viewed from the front-rear direction X. The intermediate region B is a space within the heat exchange chamber A1. The connection pipe 39 is arranged in the intermediate region B.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 6 , a first side plate 61 is provided at the left (−Y) end of the first heat exchanger 40. That is, the first heat exchanger 40 has the first side plate 61. The first side plate 61 has a first side plate main body 61a, a first plate piece 61b, and a second plate piece (plate piece) 61c. The first side plate 61 of this embodiment is formed by bending a plate material. The first side plate 61 of this embodiment is made of an aluminum alloy.

[0051] In this embodiment, each part of the first core 40A is made of an aluminum alloy. That is, the first core 40A and the first side plate 61 are made of a metal material primarily made of the same metal. Therefore, electrolytic corrosion is unlikely to occur between the first core 40A and the first side plate 61.

[0052] The first side plate body 61a is a plate extending along a plane perpendicular to the left-right direction Y. The first side plate body 61a covers the left (-Y) end of the first core 40A. The first side plate body 61a is fixed by brazing to the two first heat transfer tubes 44 located on the leftmost side (-Y) of the multiple first heat transfer tubes 44 that make up the first core 40A. In this way, the first side plate 61 is fixed to the first core 40A.

[0053] The first plate piece 61b is plate-shaped and extends along a plane perpendicular to the front-rear direction X. The first plate piece 61b is connected to the rear (-X) edge of the first side plate main body 61a. The first plate piece 61b is provided with a plurality of screw holes 61k. The plurality of screw holes 61k are aligned in the up-down direction Z. In addition, the lower end of the first plate piece 61b is provided with open cutouts 61d formed by cutting out from the bottom (-Z) and left (-Y) sides.

[0054] The second plate piece 61c is a plate extending along a plane perpendicular to the front-rear direction X. The second plate piece 61c is connected to the front (+X) edge of the first side plate main body 61a. The second plate piece 61c faces the first plate piece 61b in the front-rear direction X. The width dimension of the second plate piece 61c in the left-right direction Y is greater than the width dimension of the first plate piece 61b in the left-right direction Y.

[0055] The second plate piece 61c is provided with a plurality of through holes (openings) 61h (described below, two in this embodiment) and a notch (opening) 61j located at the lower end. The through holes 61h and the notch 61j both function as openings that penetrate the second plate piece 61c in the thickness direction. The multiple through holes 61h and the notch 61j are aligned in the vertical direction Z. The through holes 61h are rectangular. The notch 61j is formed by cutting out the second plate piece 61c from the lower side (-Z) and left side (-Y).

[0056] A second side plate 62 is provided at the rear (-X) end of the second heat exchange unit 50. That is, the second heat exchange unit 50 has the second side plate 62. The second side plate 62 has a second side plate main body 62a and a third plate piece 62b. The second side plate 62 of this embodiment is formed by bending a plate material. The second side plate 62 of this embodiment is made of an aluminum alloy.

[0057] The second side plate body 62a is a plate extending along a plane perpendicular to the left-right direction Y. The second side plate body 62a covers the rear (-X) end of the second core 50A. The second side plate body 62a is fixed by brazing to the two second heat transfer tubes 54 located furthest to the rear (-X) side of the multiple second heat transfer tubes 54 that make up the second core 50A. In this way, the second side plate 62 is fixed to the second core 50A.

[0058] In this embodiment, each portion of the second core 50A is made of an aluminum alloy, just like the first core 40A. That is, the second core 50A and the second side plate 62 are made of a metal material primarily made of the same metal. Therefore, electrolytic corrosion is unlikely to occur between the second core 50A and the second side plate 62.

[0059] The second side plate main body 62a is provided with a plurality of hook portions 62f (three in this embodiment). The plurality of hook portions 62f are aligned in the vertical direction Z. The hook portions 62f protrude rearward (-X) from the plate surface of the second side plate main body 62a. The tips of the hook portions 62f are bent upward.

[0060] The third plate piece 62b is plate-shaped and extends along a plane perpendicular to the front-rear direction X. The third plate piece 62b is connected to the rear (-X) edge of the second side plate main body 62a. The width of the third plate piece 62b in the front-rear direction X is approximately equal to the width of the first plate piece 61b in the left-right direction Y. A plurality of screw holes 62k are formed in the third plate piece 62b. In addition, the lower end of the third plate piece 62b is provided with open cutouts 62d formed by cutting out from the bottom (-Z) and left (-Y) sides.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 7 , the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50 are assembled by hooking the multiple hook portions 62f into the through-holes 61h and the notches 61j. One of the multiple hook portions 62f, located at the lower end, is inserted into the notch 61j and contacts the upper end of the inner edge of the notch 61j or faces it across a small gap. The other hook portion 62f is inserted into the through-hole 61h and contacts the downward-facing portion of the inner edge of the through-hole 61h or faces it across a small gap. This positions the left (−Y) end of the first heat exchange unit 40 on the second heat exchange unit 50, and positions the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50 in the vertical direction Z. Furthermore, by inserting the multiple hook portions 62f into the through-hole 61h, the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50 are positioned relative to each other in the horizontal direction. That is, according to this embodiment, by assembling the first heat exchange section 40 and the second heat exchange section 50, the first heat exchange section 40 and the second heat exchange section 50 can be positioned relative to each other and temporarily fixed.

[0062] In this embodiment, of the multiple openings (through holes 61h and notches 61j) formed in the second plate portion 61c and into which the hook portion 62f is inserted, one located at the lower end is the notch 61j, and the other openings are the through holes 61h. The notch 61j opens to the lower (-Z) and left (-Y) sides, facilitating the insertion of the hook portion 62f. According to this embodiment, the inclusion of the notch 61j among the multiple openings (through holes 61h and notches 61j) facilitates the insertion of the hook portion 62f into the opening, simplifying the assembly process of the heat exchanger 30. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the inclusion of the through holes 61h among the multiple openings (through holes 61h and notches 61j) limits the movement of the inserted hook portion 62f at the inner edge of the through hole 61h, making it easier to position the first heat exchanger portion 40 and the second heat exchanger portion 50.

[0063] As shown by the dashed line in FIG. 7 , the connection pipe 39 is attached when the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50 are assembled. The connection pipe 39 connects the pipe connection portion 46a of the first heat exchange unit 40 to the pipe connection portion 56b of the second heat exchange unit 50. As described above, the first plate portion 61b and the third plate portion 62b have open cutouts 61d, 62d at their lower ends. The open cutouts 61d, 62d increase the distance between the first plate portion 61b and the third plate portion 62b at their lower ends. This allows for easier access to the connection pipe 39 between the first plate portion 61b and the third plate portion 62b when connecting the connection pipe 39. That is, according to this embodiment, the provision of the open cutouts 61d, 62d can improve the workability of connecting the pipe connecting portions 46a, 56a and the connecting pipe 39.

[0064] As shown in Figure 5, the second plate portion 61c extends along the plate surface of the second side plate main body 62a when the first heat exchanger 40 and the second heat exchanger 50 are assembled. The second plate portion 61c contacts the plate surface of the second side plate main body 62a facing the rear (-X) side. The first side plate 61 is disposed at the second plate portion 61c, straddling the first core 40A and the second core 50A. The second plate portion 61c covers the intermediate region B from the diagonally front right side.

[0065] As described above, the blower fan 15 that blows air out of the housing 11 through the outlet 11h is provided in the heat exchange chamber A1 of the housing 11, in front of the first heat exchange unit 40 (+X) and to the right of the second heat exchange unit 50 (+Y). Here, a low-pressure region C where pressure is low is formed in front of the first heat exchange unit 40 (+X) and to the right of the second heat exchange unit 50 (+Y). If a gap is provided between the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50, air will flow from the gap into the low-pressure region C, which may reduce the amount of air passing through the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50.

[0066] The first side plate 61 of this embodiment covers the intermediate region B from the front side (+X) and the right side (+Y). As a result, the first side plate 61 covers the gap between the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50. This embodiment can prevent air from flowing into the low-pressure region C from the rear side (-X) and the left side (-Y) of the heat exchanger 30 via the intermediate region B. As a result, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the amount of air passing through the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger 30.

[0067] As shown in Figure 8, the cover member 60 is fixed to the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50. The cover member 60 is a plate-like member with a uniform cross-sectional shape extending in the vertical direction Z. The cover member 60 of this embodiment is formed by bending a plate material. The cover member 60 of this embodiment is made of an aluminum alloy. The cover member 60 has a cover plate main body 60a, a first fixing piece 60b, and a second fixing piece 60c.

[0068] The cover plate body 60a has a rectangular shape with its longitudinal direction in the up-down direction Z. The cover plate body 60a is inclined with respect to the left-right direction Y and the front-rear direction X. More specifically, the cover plate body 60a extends at an incline toward the front (+X) side as it moves toward the left (-Y) side.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 5 , the first fixing piece 60b is a plate extending along a plane perpendicular to the front-rear direction X. The first fixing piece 60b is connected to the right (+Y) edge of the cover plate main body 60a. The first fixing piece 60b is disposed along the plate surface facing the rear (-X) side of the first plate piece 61b. The first fixing piece 60b has a hole through which a fixing screw 69 is inserted. The first fixing piece 60b is fixed to the first plate piece 61b by tightening the fixing screw 69 into the screw hole 61k of the first plate piece 61b. This fixes the cover member 60 to the first heat exchanger 40.

[0070] The second fixing piece 60c is a plate-like member extending along a plane perpendicular to the left-right direction Y. The second fixing piece 60c is connected to the front (+X) edge of the cover plate main body 60a. The second fixing piece 60c is disposed along the plate surface facing the left (-Y) side of the third plate piece 62b. The second fixing piece 60c is provided with a hole through which a fixing screw 69 is inserted. The second fixing piece 60c is fixed to the third plate piece 62b by tightening the fixing screw 69 into the screw hole 62k of the third plate piece 62b. This fixes the cover member 60 to the second heat exchanger 50.

[0071] According to this embodiment, the cover member 60 is fixed to the first heat exchanger 40 at the first fixing piece 60b and to the second heat exchanger 50 at the second fixing piece 60c. Therefore, the first heat exchanger 40 and the second heat exchanger 50 are fixed to each other via the cover member 60. This allows the first heat exchanger 40 and the second heat exchanger 50 to be integrated. As a result, it becomes possible to adopt an assembly process in which the first heat exchanger 40 and the second heat exchanger 50 are assembled into the housing 11 in an integrated state, thereby simplifying the assembly process of the outdoor unit 10. Furthermore, the first heat exchanger 40 and the second heat exchanger 50 can be transported in an integrated state.

[0072] In this embodiment, the cover member 60 covers the intermediate region B from the left side (-Y) and rear side (-X). As a result, the cover member 60 covers the gap between the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50. According to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent air from flowing into the low-pressure region C from the rear side (-X) and left side (-Y) of the heat exchanger 30 via the intermediate region B, and to prevent a decrease in the volume of air passing through the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50.

[0073] In this embodiment, the first side plate 61, the second side plate 62, and the cover member 60 are all made of an aluminum alloy. That is, the first side plate 61, the second side plate 62, and the cover member 60 are made of a metal material primarily composed of the same metal. Therefore, the first side plate 61, the second side plate 62, and the cover member 60 have similar natural potentials, making them less susceptible to electrolytic corrosion. In particular, the first side plate 61, the second side plate 62, and the cover member 60 in this embodiment are made of aluminum alloys having the same composition. Therefore, the first side plate 61, the second side plate 62, and the cover member 60 have the same natural potentials, making them even less susceptible to electrolytic corrosion.

[0074] In this embodiment, all components of the first heat exchange section 40, the second heat exchange section 50, the connecting pipes 39, and the cover member 60 that make up the heat exchanger 30 are made of aluminum alloy or aluminum, except for the fixing screws. This reduces electrolytic corrosion of the components. Furthermore, although steel fixing screws are used to ensure strength, the contact portions with the components are coated with resin or the like to reduce electrolytic corrosion.

[0075] 9 and 10 are perspective views showing the assembly process of the heat exchanger 30 and the bottom plate member 11b of the present embodiment. Fig. 9 shows the state before the heat exchanger 30 is mounted on the bottom plate member 11b of the housing 11. Fig. 10 shows the state after the heat exchanger 30 has been mounted on the bottom plate member 11b of the housing 11.

[0076] As shown in Fig. 9, a heat exchanger mounting plate 70 is installed on the bottom plate portion 11f of the bottom plate member 11b. In Fig. 9, the heat exchanger mounting plate 70 is highlighted by a dotted pattern. In this embodiment, the heat exchanger mounting plate 70 is fixed to the bottom plate member 11b by fitting inside the second folded portion 11g of the bottom plate member 11b.

[0077] The heat exchanger mounting plate 70 is made of resin. The heat exchanger mounting plate 70 is plate-shaped and extends along a plane perpendicular to the vertical direction Z. The heat exchanger mounting plate 70 is L-shaped when viewed from the vertical direction Z. The heat exchanger mounting plate 70 has a rectangular first portion 71 whose longitudinal direction is the left-right direction Y, and a rectangular second portion 72 whose longitudinal direction is the front-rear direction X. The left (-Y) end of the first portion 71 and the rear (-X) end of the second portion 72 are connected.

[0078] 10 , the heat exchanger 30 is mounted on the upper surface of the heat exchanger mounting plate 70. The heat exchanger mounting plate 70 overlaps the heat exchanger 30 when viewed from the vertical direction Z. More specifically, when viewed from the vertical direction Z, the first portion 71 overlaps the first heat exchange section 40, and the second portion 72 overlaps the second heat exchange section 50. A flat surface is provided on the upper surface of the heat exchanger mounting plate 70, and the lower surface of the heat exchanger 30 contacts this flat surface.

[0079] In the present embodiment, the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50 are mounted on the heat exchanger mounting plate 70 but are not directly fixed to the heat exchanger mounting plate 70. The first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50 are fixed to various parts of the housing 11 and the partition plate 11t, and are thereby indirectly fixed to the heat exchanger mounting plate 70. However, the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50 may also be fixed directly to the heat exchanger mounting plate 70.

[0080] The bottom plate portion 11f has a bottom surface 11p that covers the internal space of the housing 11 from below. Generally, the bottom surface 11p is provided with an uneven shape for the purpose of ensuring the rigidity of the bottom plate portion 11f. Therefore, if the heat exchanger 30 is mounted directly on the bottom surface 11p, a gap will be created between the heat exchanger 30 and the bottom surface 11p, and this gap will become an air blowing path.

[0081] According to this embodiment, a heat exchanger mounting plate 70 is installed on the bottom surface 11p of the bottom plate portion 11f, and the heat exchanger 30 is mounted on the upper surface of the heat exchanger mounting plate 70. This allows the lower surfaces of the heat exchanger 30 (more specifically, the lower surfaces of the first lower headers 41, 42 and the second lower headers 51, 52) to be in contact with the flat surface of the heat exchanger mounting plate 70, thereby preventing air from flowing into the low-pressure region C from below the heat exchanger 30. As a result, a reduction in the volume of air passing through the first heat exchange section 40 and the second heat exchange section 50 can be prevented.

[0082] The lower surface of the heat exchanger 30 (more specifically, the lower surfaces of the first lower headers 41, 42 and the second lower headers 51, 52) preferably has a flat surface that contacts the upper surface of the heat exchanger mounting plate 70. In this case, the lower surface of the heat exchanger 30 and the upper surface of the heat exchanger mounting plate 70 can be in surface contact, further improving the sealing performance between the heat exchanger 30 and the heat exchanger mounting plate 70.

[0083] According to this embodiment, the resin heat exchanger mounting plate 70 limits direct contact between the heat exchanger 30 and the bottom plate member 11b, thereby suppressing the occurrence of electrolytic corrosion even when the components constituting the heat exchanger 30 and the bottom plate member 11b are made of different metals.

[0084] 10, the lower end of the cover member 60 in this embodiment extends below (-Z) the upper end of the second folded portion 11g of the bottom plate member 11b. This complicates the path of air that attempts to flow from the outside of the housing 11 to the low-pressure region C inside the housing 11 through the lower side (-Z) of the cover member 60, thereby making it possible to suppress the inflow of air into the low-pressure region C.

[0085] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the outdoor unit 10 taken along line XI-XI in Figure 5. In this embodiment, the upper end of the first side plate 61 is located higher (+Z) than the upper end of the second side plate 62 and the upper end of the cover member 60. In addition, the upper end of the first side plate 61 in this embodiment is located higher (+Z) than the upper ends of the first heat exchange section 40 and the second heat exchange section 50. The top plate 11d of the housing 11 has a top surface 11u that covers the interior space of the housing 11 from above. The upper end of the cover member 60 faces the top surface 11u of the housing 11 in the vertical direction Z.

[0086] According to this embodiment, the upper end of the first side plate 61 is located above (+Z) the upper ends of the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50, so even if an object is placed on the upper surface of the top plate 11d and the top plate 11d bends downward (-Z), the top plate 11d can be supported from below (-Z) by the first side plate 61. This prevents the top plate 11d from reaching a position below (-Z) the upper end of the first side plate 61 even if the top plate 11d bends downward (-Z), and prevents the top plate 11d from contacting the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50 and damaging the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50.

[0087] In the present embodiment, the first side plate 61 supports the top plate 11d, but the second side plate 62 or the cover member 60 may support the top plate 11d. That is, it is sufficient that the upper end of any one of the first side plate 61, the second side plate 62, or the cover member 60 is located above (+Z) the upper ends of the first heat exchange section 40 and the second heat exchange section 50.

[0088] An elastic member 68 is sandwiched between the top surface 11u of the top plate 11d and the second plate portion 61c of the first side plate 61. The elastic member 68 comes into contact with the top plate 11d and the second plate portion 61c and elastically deforms to close the gap between the top plate 11d and the second plate portion 61c. This prevents air from flowing into the low-pressure region C within the housing 11 through the gap between the top plate 11d and the second plate portion 61c, and prevents a reduction in the volume of air passing through the first heat exchanger 40 and the second heat exchanger 50.

[0089] In the present embodiment, the elastic member 68 is disposed between the top surface 11u of the top plate 11d and the second plate piece 61c. However, as shown by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 9 , the elastic member 68A may be sandwiched between the top surface 11u of the top plate 11d and the cover member 60. The elastic member 68A of the modified example can close the gap between the top plate 11d and the cover member 60, preventing air from flowing into the low-pressure region C through this gap. In other words, the elastic members 68, 68A may be sandwiched between at least one of the cover member 60 and the second plate piece 61c.

[0090] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the elastic member 68 can prevent direct contact between the top plate 11d and the first side plate 61, and can prevent scratches on the top surface 11u of the top plate 11d even when the top plate 11d is bent. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the elastic member 68 (or the elastic member 68A of the modified example) limits direct contact between the top plate member 11a and the first side plate 61 (or the cover member 60). Therefore, even if the top plate member 11a and the first side plate 61 (or the cover member 60) are made of dissimilar metals, the occurrence of electrolytic corrosion can be prevented.

[0091] The elastic member 68 is made of, for example, a sponge-like resin material. The material of the elastic member 68 is not limited as long as it can elastically deform to the extent that it closes the gap between the top plate portion 11d and the cover member 60 without damaging the top plate portion 11d. By making the elastic member 68 out of a non-conductive material such as a resin material, it is possible to suppress electrolytic corrosion between the top plate portion 11d and the first side plate 61. The elastic member 68 is preferably attached to the top surface 11u of the top plate portion 11d using adhesive tape or the like.

[0092] In this embodiment, the upper end of the cover member 60 is located above (+Z) the lower end of the first folded portion 11e of the top plate member 11a. This complicates the path of air that attempts to flow from the outside of the housing 11 to the low-pressure region C inside the housing 11 through the upper side (+Z) of the cover member 60, thereby making it possible to suppress the inflow of air into the low-pressure region C.

[0093] Similarly, the upper end of the second plate piece 61c is located above (+Z) the lower end of the first folded portion 11e of the top plate member 11a, thereby complicating the path of air attempting to flow from outside the housing 11 to the low-pressure region C inside the housing 11 through the upper side (+Z) of the second plate piece 61c, thereby suppressing the inflow of air into the low-pressure region C.

[0094] Summary of the Embodiment As shown in FIG. 1 , the outdoor unit 10 of the present embodiment includes a circulation path section (piping) 18, a compressor 12, a heat exchanger 30, and a housing 11. Refrigerant R flows through the circulation path section 18. The compressor 12 is connected to the circulation path section 18. The compressor 12 compresses the refrigerant R. The circulation path section 18 is connected to the heat exchanger 30. As shown in FIG. 4 , the housing 11 is provided with a machine chamber A2 and a heat exchange chamber A1. The compressor 12 is disposed in the machine chamber A2. The heat exchanger 30 is disposed in the heat exchange chamber A1. Directions that are perpendicular to the up-down direction Z and intersect with each other are defined as a first direction (left-right direction Y) and a second direction (front-rear direction X). The heat exchanger 30 includes a first heat exchange section 40, a second heat exchange section 50, connecting piping 39, and a cover member 60. The first heat exchange unit 40 extends in a first direction (left-right direction Y) when viewed from the top-bottom direction. The second heat exchange unit 50 extends in a second direction (front-back direction X) when viewed from the top-bottom direction. The connection pipe 39 connects the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50. The first heat exchange unit 40 includes a first core 40A, first lower headers 41, 42, and a first side plate 61. The first core 40A includes a plurality of first heat transfer tubes 44 extending in the top-bottom direction Z and first corrugated fins 45 positioned between the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 44. The first lower headers 41, 42 are connected to the lower ends of the plurality of first heat transfer tubes 44. The first side plate 61 is located at the left (-Y) end of the first core 40A in the first direction (left-right direction Y) and extends in the top-bottom direction Z. The second heat exchange unit 50 includes a second core 50A, second lower headers 51 and 52, and a second side plate 62. The second core 50A includes a plurality of second heat transfer tubes 54 extending in the up-down direction Z and second corrugated fins 55 positioned between the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 54. The second lower headers 51 and 52 are connected to the lower ends of the plurality of second heat transfer tubes 54. The second side plate 62 is located at the rear (-X) end of the second core 50A in the second direction (front-rear direction X) and extends in the up-down direction Z. At least a portion of the first core 40A is located rearward (-X) from the second core 50A in the second direction (front-rear direction X). At least a portion of the second core 50A is located to the left (-Y) of the first core 40A in the first direction (left-right direction Y).5, the heat exchange chamber A1 is provided with an intermediate region B that overlaps with the first core 40A when viewed from a first direction (left-right direction Y) and with the second core 50A when viewed from a second direction (front-rear direction X). The cover member 60 extends in the up-down direction Z and is fixed to the first side plate 61 and the second side plate 62, covering the intermediate region B from the left side (-Y) and rear side (-X).

[0095] In a typical heat exchanger, the heat transfer tubes extend horizontally and are plastically deformed to form an L-shaped heat exchanger when viewed from the vertical direction Z. In contrast, in the heat exchanger 30 of the present embodiment, the heat transfer tubes (first heat transfer tube 44 and second heat transfer tube 54) extend in the vertical direction Z. This makes it difficult to form a single heat exchange section into an L-shape. Therefore, in the heat exchanger 30 of the present embodiment, the first heat exchange section 40 and the second heat exchange section 50, which are connected to each other via a connecting pipe 39, are arranged in the left-right direction Y and the front-rear direction X to form an L-shape. In this case, an intermediate region B is formed between the first heat exchange section 40 and the second heat exchange section 50. If air flows through this intermediate region B, the flow rate of air passing through the first core 40A and the second core 40B will be reduced. According to the present embodiment, the cover member 60 covers the intermediate region B from the left side (-Y) and the rear side (-X). This makes it possible to suppress the flow rate of air passing through the intermediate region B and ensure the flow rate of air passing through the first core 40A and the second core 50A. In other words, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the flow rate of air passing through the first heat exchange section 40 and the second heat exchange section 50, and it is possible to improve the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger 30.

[0096] According to this embodiment, the first heat exchanger 40 and the second heat exchanger 50 can be fixed to each other via the cover member 60. This makes it possible to employ an assembly process in which the first heat exchanger 40 and the second heat exchanger 50 are assembled together inside the housing 11, thereby simplifying the assembly process of the outdoor unit 10. Furthermore, the first heat exchanger 40 and the second heat exchanger 50 can be transported in an assembled state, which increases the degree of freedom in the order of assembly and transportation.

[0097] In the outdoor unit 10 of this embodiment, the first side plate 61 has a plate-shaped first side plate main body 61a and a plate-shaped second plate piece 61c. The first side plate main body 61a has a thickness direction that is the first direction (left-right direction Y). The second plate piece 61c is bent to the left (-Y) relative to the first side plate main body 61a and extends in the up-down direction. The second side plate 62 has a second side plate main body 62a. The thickness direction of the second side plate main body 62a is the second direction (front-back direction X). The second plate piece 61c is in contact with the second side plate main body 62a and extends along the plate surface of the second side plate main body 62a.

[0098] According to this configuration, the second plate piece 61c covers the intermediate region B from the right side (+Y) and the front side (+X). As described above, the left side (-Y) and the rear side (-X) of the intermediate region B are covered by the cover member 60. Therefore, this configuration makes it possible to doubly block the air path through the intermediate region B, further suppressing a reduction in the volume of air passing through the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50. Furthermore, because the cover member 60 is a separate member fixed to the first side plate 61 and the second side plate 62, gaps may form at the connecting portions depending on the warping and dimensional accuracy of the members, and these gaps may become an air path. In contrast, because the second plate piece 61c is formed by being bent relative to the first side plate main body 61a, no gaps are formed between the second plate piece 61c and the first side plate main body 61a, making it easier to block the flow of air attempting to pass through the intermediate region B. As a result, the flow resistance of the air flow path passing through the intermediate region B can be increased, making it easier to ensure the volume of air passing through the first heat exchange section 40 and the second heat exchange section 50. Furthermore, with this configuration, by arranging the second plate piece portion 61c of the first side plate 61 so as to overlap the second side plate body 62a of the second side plate 62, it becomes easier to maintain the relative positional relationship between the first heat exchange section 40 and the second heat exchange section 50. This increases the rigidity of the connecting portion between the first heat exchange section 40 and the second heat exchange section 50, improving the handleability of the heat exchanger 30 during the assembly process.

[0099] In the outdoor unit 10 of this embodiment, the second side plate body 62a has a hook portion 62f protruding toward the rear (-X) side. The second plate portion 61c has openings (through holes 61h and notches 61j) for engaging the hook portion 62f. With this configuration, the first heat exchanger 40 and the second heat exchanger 50 can be temporarily secured to each other by engaging the hook portion 62f with the edges of the openings (through holes 61h and notches 61j). This stabilizes the first heat exchanger 40 and the second heat exchanger 50 when securing the cover member 60 to the first side plate 61 and the second side plate 62, facilitating the securing process. Furthermore, when the first heat exchanger 40 and the second heat exchanger 50 are connected via the connecting pipes 39, the process of connecting the connecting pipes 39 can be simplified. In addition, by hooking the hook portion 62f into the openings (the through-hole 61h and the notch 61j), the first heat exchange portion 40 and the second heat exchange portion 50 can be temporarily fixed together, which simplifies the disassembly work when disassembling the outdoor unit 10. As a result, the outdoor unit 10 can be easily recycled.

[0100] In the outdoor unit 10 of this embodiment, the top plate 11d of the housing 11 has a top surface 11u that covers the interior space from above. Elastic members 68, 68A are sandwiched between the top surface 11u of the top plate 11d and at least one of the cover member 60 and the first side plate 61. This configuration allows the elastic members 68, 68A to close the gap between the upper end of the cover member 60 or the first side plate 61 and the top plate 11d. This prevents airflow from forming above the cover member 60 or the first side plate 61 (+Z), making it easier to ensure sufficient airflow passing through the first heat exchanger 40 and the second heat exchanger 50. Furthermore, the elastic members 68, 68A prevent direct contact between the cover member 60 or the first side plate 61 and the top plate 11d, reducing the risk of electrolytic corrosion even when the heat exchanger 30 and the top plate 11d are made of dissimilar metals.

[0101] In the outdoor unit 10 of this embodiment, the bottom plate portion 11f of the housing 11 has a bottom surface 11p that covers the internal space from below. A resin heat exchanger mounting plate 70 is installed on the bottom surface 11p of the bottom plate portion 11f. The heat exchanger 30 is mounted on the heat exchanger mounting plate 70 so that the heat exchanger 30 overlaps the heat exchanger mounting plate 70 when viewed from the vertical direction Z. This configuration allows the lower surface of the heat exchanger 30 to contact the upper surface of the heat exchanger mounting plate 70, thereby preventing air from passing under the heat exchanger 30. As a result, a reduction in the volume of air passing through the first heat exchange section 40 and the second heat exchange section 50 can be prevented. Furthermore, because the resin heat exchanger mounting plate 70 limits direct contact between the heat exchanger 30 and the bottom plate member 11b, electrolytic corrosion can be prevented even when the components constituting the heat exchanger 30 and the bottom plate member 11b are made of dissimilar metals.

[0102] In the outdoor unit 10 of this embodiment, the first side plate 61, the second side plate 62, and the cover member 60 are made of a metal material (aluminum alloy) that is primarily made of the same metal (aluminum). Therefore, the first side plate 61, the second side plate 62, and the cover member 60 have similar natural potentials, making them less likely to corrode each other.

[0103] In the outdoor unit 10 of this embodiment, the machine chamber A2 is located on the opposite side (right side (+Y)) of the heat exchange chamber A1 from the left side (-Y). A first inlet / outlet pipe 37 is connected to the right (+Y) end of the first lower header 42 as the circulation path section (piping) 18 and extends to the machine chamber A2. A second inlet / outlet pipe 38 is connected to the front (+X) end of the second lower header 51 as the circulation path section (piping) 18 and extends to the machine chamber A2. The second inlet / outlet pipe 38 has a first extension portion 38b and a second extension portion 38d. The first extension portion 38b extends along the second lower header 52. The second extension portion 38d is bent relative to the first extension portion 38b and extends along the first lower header 42. This configuration reduces the amount of inlet / outlet pipe routing within the machine room A2 compared to when two inlet / outlet pipes extend from one end of the heat exchanger 30, making it easier to ensure a larger interior space within the machine room A2. As a result, the degree of freedom in arranging the devices arranged in the machine room A2 is increased. Furthermore, this embodiment allows the first inlet / outlet pipe 37 and the second inlet / outlet pipe 38, which are connected to opposite ends of the heat exchanger 30, to be smoothly guided into the machine room A2. In particular, because the second inlet / outlet pipe 38 is arranged in an area within the heat exchange chamber A1 that does not obstruct the flow of air, a reduction in the volume of air passing through the heat exchanger 30 can be suppressed.

[0104] In the outdoor unit 10 of this embodiment, the housing 11 has a top plate member 11a that covers the interior space from above. The top plate member 11a has a top plate portion 11d and a first folded portion 11e. The top plate portion 11d extends along a plane perpendicular to the up-down direction Z. The first folded portion 11e extends downward from the outer edge of the top plate portion 11d. The upper end of the cover member 60 is located higher than the lower end of the first folded portion 11e. This configuration can complicate the path of air passing through the upper side (+Z) of the cover member 60, preventing air from passing through the upper side (+Z) of the cover member 60 and making it easier to ensure the volume of air passing through the first heat exchange unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 50.

[0105] In the outdoor unit 10 of this embodiment, the housing 11 has a bottom plate member 11b that covers the internal space from below. The bottom plate member has a bottom plate portion 11f and a second folded portion 11g. The bottom plate portion 11f extends along a plane perpendicular to the up-down direction Z. The second folded portion 11g extends upward from the outer edge of the bottom plate portion 11f. The lower end of the cover member 60 is located below the upper end of the second folded portion 11g. This configuration complicates the path of air that attempts to flow from outside the housing 11 through the lower side (-Z) of the cover member 60 to the low-pressure region C inside the housing 11, thereby suppressing the inflow of air into the low-pressure region C.

[0106] In the outdoor unit 10 of this embodiment, the connection pipes 39 are arranged in the middle region B. With this configuration, the cover member 60 can protect the connection pipes 39. This makes it possible to restrict access to the connection pipes 39, which can become hot during use. It is also possible to prevent damage to the connection pipes 39 when, for example, transporting the assembled heat exchanger 30. In addition, when the outdoor unit 10 is viewed from the rear side (-X), the cover member 60 can hide the connection pipes 39, thereby improving the design of the outdoor unit 10.

[0107] The refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 of this embodiment includes an outdoor unit 10 and an indoor unit 20 to which a circulation path portion (piping) 18 is connected. With this configuration, it is possible to provide the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 having excellent heat exchange efficiency in the outdoor unit 10.

[0108] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the configurations of the above-described embodiments, and the following configurations and methods may also be adopted.

[0109] The refrigeration cycle device that can be equipped with the outdoor unit of the present disclosure is not limited to an air conditioner as long as it uses a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant circulates. The refrigeration cycle device may also be a heat pump water heater or the like.

[0110] As a modification of the above embodiment, the first direction may be defined as the front-to-rear direction and the second direction as the left-to-right direction, and the configuration of each part may be considered accordingly. In this case, the positions of the first and second heat exchangers are reversed. Accordingly, the positions of the first and second side plates and the relationship between the hooks and the openings are also reversed.

[0111] The relative positional relationships and dimensions of the various components described in the above-described embodiments are merely examples, and the relative positional relationships and dimensions of the various components in the present disclosure are not particularly limited as long as they are within the scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure. The configurations and methods described in this specification can be combined as appropriate within the scope of not mutually contradicting each other.

[0112] 10... outdoor unit, 11, 21... housing, 11a... top plate member, 11b... bottom plate member, 11d... top plate portion, 11e... first folded portion, 11f... bottom plate portion, 11g... second folded portion, 11p... bottom surface, 11u... top surface, 12... compressor, 18... circulation path portion (piping), 20... indoor unit, 22, 30... heat exchanger, 37... first inlet / outlet pipe, 38... second inlet / outlet pipe, 38b... first extension portion, 38d... second extension portion, 39... connection pipe, 40... first heat exchange portion, 40A... first core, 41, 42... first lower header, 44... first heat transfer pipe, 45... first corrugated fin (first fin), 50... second heat exchange portion, 50A... second core, 51, 52...Second lower header, 54...Second heat transfer tube, 55...Second corrugated fin (second fin), 60...Cover member, 61...First side plate, 61a...First side plate main body, 61c...Second plate portion (plate portion), 61h...Through hole (opening), 61j...Notch (opening), 62...Second side plate, 62a...Second side plate main body, 62f...Hook portion, 68, 68A...Elastic member, 70...Heat exchanger mounting plate, 100...Refrigeration cycle device, A1...Heat exchange chamber, A2...Machine room, B...Intermediate area, R...Refrigerant, Y...Left-right direction (first direction), +Y...Right side (first side), X...Front-rear direction (second direction), −X...Rear side (second side), Z...Up-down direction

Claims

1. A heat exchanger comprising: piping through which a refrigerant flows; a compressor connected to the piping and compressing the refrigerant; a heat exchanger connected to the piping; a machine room in which the compressor is disposed; and a housing in which a heat exchange chamber in which the heat exchanger is disposed is provided, wherein directions perpendicular to the vertical direction and intersecting each other are defined as a first direction and a second direction; the heat exchanger has: a first heat exchange section extending in the first direction when viewed from the vertical direction; a second heat exchange section extending in the second direction when viewed from the vertical direction; connecting piping connecting the first heat exchange section and the second heat exchange section; and a cover member; the first heat exchange section has: a first core having a plurality of first heat transfer tubes extending in the vertical direction and first fins located between the plurality of first heat transfer tubes; a first lower header connected to lower ends of the plurality of first heat transfer tubes; and a first side plate located at an end of the first core on a first side in the first direction and extending in the vertical direction; an outdoor unit comprising: a second core having a plurality of second heat transfer tubes extending in a vertical direction and second fins located between the plurality of second heat transfer tubes; a second lower header connected to lower ends of the plurality of second heat transfer tubes; and a second side plate located at an end of the second core on a second side in the second direction and extending in a vertical direction, wherein at least a portion of the first core is located on a second side in the second direction relative to the second core, and at least a portion of the second core is located on a first side in the first direction relative to the first core, wherein the heat exchange chamber is provided with an intermediate region that overlaps with the first core when viewed from the first direction and overlaps with the second core when viewed from the second direction, and wherein the cover member extends in a vertical direction and is fixed to the first side plate and the second side plate, covering the intermediate region from the first side and the second side.

2. An outdoor unit as described in claim 1, wherein the first side panel has a first side panel body whose thickness direction is the first direction, and a plate piece portion that is bent toward the first side relative to the first side panel body and extends in the vertical direction, and the second side panel has a plate-shaped second side panel body whose thickness direction is the second direction, and the plate piece portion contacts the second side panel body and extends along the plate surface of the second side panel body.

3. An outdoor unit according to claim 2, wherein the second side panel body has a hook portion that protrudes to the second side, and the panel portion is provided with an opening into which the hook portion is hooked.

4. The outdoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first side plate, the second side plate, and the cover member are made of a metal material containing the same metal as a main component.

5. An outdoor unit as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the machine room is located on the opposite side of the heat exchange chamber from the first side, a first inlet / outlet pipe extending to the machine room is connected to an end of the first lower header opposite to the first side as the piping, and a second inlet / outlet pipe extending to the machine room is connected to an end of the second lower header opposite to the second side as the piping, and the second inlet / outlet pipe has a first extension portion extending along the second lower header, and a second extension portion bent relative to the first extension portion and extending along the first lower header.

6. An outdoor unit as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the housing has a top plate member that covers the internal space from above, the top plate member having a top plate portion that extends along a plane perpendicular to the up-down direction, and a first folded portion that extends downward from the outer edge of the top plate portion, and the upper end of the cover member is located above the lower end of the first folded portion.

7. The outdoor unit according to claim 6, wherein the top plate portion has a top surface that covers the internal space from above, and an elastic member is sandwiched between the top surface and at least one of the cover member and the first side plate.

8. An outdoor unit as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the housing has a bottom plate member covering the internal space from below, the bottom plate member having a bottom plate portion extending along a plane perpendicular to the up-down direction and a second folded portion extending upward from the outer edge of the bottom plate portion, and the lower end of the cover member is located lower than the upper end of the second folded portion.

9. The outdoor unit according to claim 8, wherein the bottom plate portion has a bottom surface that covers the internal space from below, and a resin heat exchanger mounting plate is installed on the bottom surface so as to overlap the heat exchanger when viewed from the top-bottom direction and on which the heat exchanger is mounted.

10. The outdoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the connecting pipe is arranged in the intermediate region.

11. A refrigeration cycle device comprising: an outdoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 10; and an indoor unit to which the piping is connected.

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