Heat source device

Abstract

This heat source device comprises: a gas cylinder (71) having a discharge outlet (71a) at a lower section thereof; and a casing (21) having a bottom plate (23) above which a compressor (12) and the gas cylinder (71) are installed. The gas cylinder (71) is disposed between the compressor (12) and a side edge (23a) of the bottom plate (23). A first straight line (L1) is defined as a straight line that passes through the center of gravity of the compressor (12) and the center of gravity of the gas cylinder (71) in top view of the bottom plate (23). A second straight line (L2) is defined as a straight line that is orthogonal to the side edge (23a) of the bottom plate (23) and passes through the center of gravity of the compressor (12) in top view. The first straight line (L1) and the second straight line (L2) form a predetermined angle (θ1).

Description

heat source device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heat source device.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a heat source device including a compressor connected to a refrigerant circuit. The compressor is installed on a bottom plate within a casing of the heat source device.

[0003] JP 2013-155921 A

[0004] The present inventors have devised a configuration in which a cylinder is provided within the casing of a heat source device. The cylinder stores a refrigerant to be filled into the refrigerant circuit. This allows the refrigerant circuit to be filled with refrigerant from the cylinder when the heat source device is installed, eliminating the need to separately prepare refrigerant for filling. However, a configuration in which a flammable refrigerant is used and a cylinder is provided within the casing presents the following unique problems.

[0005] During transportation of the heat source device until installation at the site, there is a risk that the casing will fall. The casing contains a compressor and a gas cylinder. When the casing falls to the ground, the compressor may be positioned above the gas cylinder. In this case, if the compressor collides with the gas cylinder due to the impact of the fall, the gas cylinder may be damaged, causing the refrigerant to leak into the air.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to reduce the impact when the compressor collides with the cylinder when the casing falls.

[0007] The first aspect relates to a heat source device. The heat source device includes a compressor (12) included in a refrigerant circuit (11) that performs a refrigeration cycle, a cylinder (71) that stores a flammable refrigerant to be filled into the refrigerant circuit (11) and has a discharge port (71a) at its bottom for discharging the flammable refrigerant, and a casing (21) having a bottom plate (23) on which the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) are mounted. The cylinder (71) is disposed between the compressor (12) and a side edge (23a) of the bottom plate (23). The first straight line (L1) is defined as a line passing through the center of gravity of the compressor (12) and the center of gravity of the cylinder (71) when viewed from above the bottom plate (23), and the second straight line (L2) is defined as a line passing through the center of gravity of the compressor (12) and perpendicular to the side edge (23a) of the bottom plate (23) when viewed from above, and the first straight line (L1) and the second straight line (L2) form a predetermined angle (θ1).

[0008] In the first aspect, when the casing (21) contacts the ground in a state in which a first line (L1) passing through the center of gravity of the compressor (12) and the center of gravity of the cylinder (71) is aligned with the direction of gravity, the side edge (23a) of the bottom plate (23) is inclined with respect to the ground. As a result, deformation of the bottom plate (23) when the bottom plate (23) contacts the ground can be promoted. Therefore, the kinetic energy of the compressor (12) can be absorbed by the deformation of the bottom plate (23), thereby reducing the impact acting from the compressor (12) on the cylinder (71).

[0009] In the second aspect, the heat source device of the first aspect further includes a support plate (51) that supports the compressor (12) from below, and an elastic support part (52) that is fixed on the bottom plate (23) and supports the support plate (51) from below. The cylinder (71) is not supported by the support plate (51) but is fixed on the bottom plate (23). Here, the cylinder (71) may be directly fixed on the bottom plate (23) or indirectly fixed on the bottom plate (23) via another part.

[0010] In the second aspect, the compressor (12) is fixed to the bottom plate (23) via the elastic support (52), and the cylinder (71) is fixed to the bottom plate (23) without the elastic support (52). Therefore, when the casing (21) falls, the downward acceleration of the compressor (12) is smaller than the downward acceleration of the cylinder (71). As a result, the impact acting on the cylinder (71) from the compressor (12) can be reduced.

[0011] In a third aspect, the heat source device of the first aspect further includes a support plate (51) that supports the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) from below, and an elastic support part (52) that is fixed onto the bottom plate (23) and supports the support plate (51) from below. Here, the elastic support part (52) may be directly fixed onto the bottom plate (23) or indirectly fixed onto the bottom plate (23) via another part.

[0012] In the third aspect, both the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) are fixed to the support plate (51). Therefore, when the casing (21) comes into contact with the ground, the portion of the support plate (51) between the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) is deformed. Therefore, the kinetic energy of the compressor (12) can be absorbed by the deformation of the support plate (51), and the impact acting from the compressor (12) on the cylinder (71) can be reduced.

[0013] In a fourth aspect, in any one of the first to third aspects, the heat source device further includes a buffer member (80) disposed between the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71).

[0014] In the fourth aspect, when the casing (21) falls, the buffer member (80) reduces the impact acting on the cylinder (71) from the compressor (12).

[0015] In a fifth aspect, in the fourth aspect, the buffer member (80) is a component part of the refrigerant circuit (11).

[0016] In the fifth aspect, the components of the refrigerant circuit (11) can be used as the buffer member (80).

[0017] A sixth aspect of the present invention is the fifth aspect, wherein the component parts include a water heat exchanger (15) or a refrigerant pipe.

[0018] In the sixth aspect of the present invention, the water heat exchanger (15) and the refrigerant pipes can be used as the buffer members (80).

[0019] In a seventh aspect, in any one of the first to sixth aspects, the heat source device further includes a sound insulating member (60) surrounding the compressor (12).

[0020] In the seventh aspect, when the casing (21) falls, the sound insulating member (60) can reduce the impact acting on the cylinder (71).

[0021] In the eighth aspect, in the seventh aspect, the cylinder (71) is disposed outside the sound insulating member (60).

[0022] In the eighth aspect, a part of the sound insulating member (60) is disposed between the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71). Therefore, when the casing (21) falls, the part of the sound insulating member (60) can reduce the impact acting on the cylinder (71) from the compressor (12).

[0023] In a ninth aspect, in any one of the first to eighth aspects, the heat source device further includes a sound absorbing material (90) arranged so as to overlap an outer surface or an inner surface of the casing (21).

[0024] In the ninth aspect, when the casing (21) falls, the sound absorbing material (90) can reduce the impact acting on the cylinder (71).

[0025] A tenth aspect is any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein the first position (P1) is defined as the position of the intersection of the first straight line (L1) and the side edge (23a) in a top view. The second position (P2) is defined as the position of the intersection of the second straight line (L2) and the side edge (23a) in a top view. The third position (P3) is defined as the position of the end (E1) of the side edge (23a) in a top view. The distance between the first position (P1) and the third position (P3) is shorter than the distance between the first position (P1) and the second position (P2).

[0026] In the tenth aspect, the first line passing through the center of gravity of the compressor (12) and the center of gravity of the cylinder (71) is closer to the end (E1) of the side edge (23a). When the casing (21) comes into contact with the ground in a state in which the first line (L1) passing through the center of gravity of the compressor (12) and the center of gravity of the cylinder (71) is aligned with the direction of gravity, the end (E1) of the side edge (23a) is more likely to come into contact with the ground (G), resulting in a larger deformation of the bottom plate (23). Therefore, the kinetic energy of the compressor (12) can be absorbed by the deformation of the bottom plate (23), thereby reducing the impact acting from the compressor (12) on the cylinder (71).

[0027] In an eleventh aspect, in any one of the first to tenth aspects, the casing (21) has a first side surface (26) having the access opening (A) and a second side surface (24) corresponding to the side edge (23a) of the bottom plate (23). The first straight line (L1) is offset from the second straight line (L2) by a predetermined angle (θ1) toward the first side surface (26).

[0028] In the eleventh aspect, the first straight line (L1) is shifted by the angle (θ1) toward the first side surface (26) with respect to the second straight line (L2), thereby reducing the impact acting on the cylinder (71). The cylinder (71) is closer to the access opening (A), which facilitates the operation of filling the refrigerant circuit (11) with the refrigerant from the cylinder (71).

[0029] A twelfth aspect is any one of the first to eleventh aspects, wherein the casing (21) accommodates the entire refrigerant circuit (11).

[0030] In the twelfth aspect, the entire refrigerant circuit (11) that forms a closed circuit is provided within the casing (21). Therefore, compared to, for example, a separate-type refrigeration cycle device, the amount of refrigerant required to be charged in the refrigerant circuit (11) is reduced, and the size of the cylinder (71) can be reduced. As a result, the rigidity of the cylinder (71) can be increased, and damage to the cylinder (71) can be suppressed.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a schematic piping diagram of a refrigerant circuit of a heat source device according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of an outdoor unit. FIG. 3 is a front view of the outdoor unit, showing the state in which the front access opening of the machine chamber is open. FIG. 4 is a plan view schematically illustrating the interior of the outdoor unit. FIG. 5 is a side view of the interior of the outdoor unit, viewed from the right side with the side panel removed. FIG. 6 is a top view of the interior of the outdoor unit, showing a schematic diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the compressor, the cylinder, and the side edges. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the compressor, the cylinder, and the side edges of a casing of a comparative example of a heat source device when dropped under first conditions. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the compressor, the cylinder, and the side edges of a casing of an embodiment when dropped under first conditions. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the compressor, the cylinder, and the side edges of a casing of an embodiment when dropped under second conditions. Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the compressor, the cylinder, and the side edges when the casing of the heat source device of Modification 1 is dropped under the second condition. Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the compressor, the cylinder, and the side edges when the heat source device of Modification 2 is dropped under the first condition. Fig. 12 is a diagram corresponding to Fig. 4 of the heat source device of Modification 3. Fig. 13 is a diagram corresponding to Fig. 6 of the heat source device of Modification 4. Fig. 14 is a diagram corresponding to Fig. 6 of another aspect of the heat source device of Modification 4.

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure. Since the drawings are intended to conceptually explain the present disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary to facilitate understanding.

[0033] (1) Basic Configuration of the Heat Source Device The heat source device (1) of this embodiment constitutes a refrigeration cycle device that performs a refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration cycle device is applied to a hot water supply system. The heat source device (1) heats water and supplies the heated water to an object. The heat source device (1) has an outdoor unit (20) installed outdoors. The outdoor unit (20) has a casing (21). The casing (21) accommodates the entire refrigerant circuit (11), which is a closed circuit. The refrigerant circuit (11) is filled with refrigerant. The refrigerant circuit (11) performs a refrigeration cycle.

[0034] The refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (11) is a flammable refrigerant. Specifically, the refrigerant in this embodiment is propane (R290), a highly flammable natural refrigerant. Natural refrigerants have an ozone depletion potential of zero, a low global warming potential, and a low environmental impact. Propane ignites at temperatures of 500°C or lower.

[0035] The flammable refrigerant may be methane (R50), ethane (R170), butane (R600), isobutane (R600a). The natural refrigerant may be a corrosive refrigerant, for example ammonia (R717).

[0036] (1-1) Refrigerant Circuit As shown in Fig. 1, the refrigerant circuit (11) includes, as its main components, a compressor (12), an air heat exchanger (13), an expansion valve (14), a water heat exchanger (15), and a cylinder (71). The refrigerant circuit (11) further includes a four-way switching valve (16) and an accumulator (17).

[0037] The compressor (12) compresses the refrigerant. A discharge pipe (18) is connected to the discharge side of the compressor (12), and a suction pipe (19) is connected to the suction side of the compressor (12). The air heat exchanger (13) exchanges heat between the refrigerant and outdoor air. The expansion valve (14) reduces the pressure of the refrigerant. The water heat exchanger (15) exchanges heat between the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (11) and water in the water circuit (40). The four-way selector valve (16) switches the circulation direction of the refrigerant. The four-way selector valve (16) is switched between a first state (shown by a solid line in FIG. 1) in which the first port (16a) and the third port (16c) communicate with each other and simultaneously the second port (16b) and the fourth port (16d) communicate with each other, and a second state (shown by a dashed line in FIG. 1) in which the first port (16a) and the second port (16b) communicate with each other and simultaneously the third port (16c) and the fourth port (16d) communicate with each other. The accumulator (17) accumulates liquid in the refrigerant sucked into the compressor (12).

[0038] The cylinder (71) is connected to the refrigerant circuit (11) via a connecting pipe (72). In this embodiment, the connecting pipe (72) is connected to the suction pipe (19). A control valve (73) is provided on the connecting pipe (72). The cylinder (71) is filled with refrigerant before shipping the heat source device (1). After transporting the heat source device (1) to the site, an operator depressurizes the refrigerant circuit (11). Thereafter, when the operator opens the control valve (73), the refrigerant from the cylinder (71) is filled into the refrigerant circuit (11).

[0039] The refrigerant circuit (11) performs a first refrigeration cycle and a second refrigeration cycle. In Fig. 1, the flow of refrigerant in the first refrigeration cycle is indicated by solid arrows, and the flow of refrigerant in the second refrigeration cycle is indicated by dashed arrows. In the first refrigeration cycle, the four-way selector valve (16) is in the first position, and the water heat exchanger (15) functions as a radiator (condenser) while the air heat exchanger (13) functions as an evaporator. In the second refrigeration cycle, the four-way selector valve (16) is in the second position, and the air heat exchanger (13) functions as a radiator (condenser) while the water heat exchanger (15) functions as an evaporator.

[0040] (1-2) Water Circuit The water circuit (40) is connected to the water heat exchanger (15). The water circuit (40) includes a first water pipe (41) upstream of the water heat exchanger (15) and a second water pipe (42) downstream of the water heat exchanger (15). A pump (43) is connected to the water circuit (40). The pump (43) transports water in the water circuit (40). The water in the water circuit (40) is supplied to a hot water tank, an air conditioning unit, a floor heating unit, or other such devices. A gas-liquid separator (44) is connected to the water circuit (40). The gas-liquid separator (44) releases refrigerant leaked from the refrigerant circuit (11) through the water heat exchanger (15) into the atmosphere.

[0041] (2) Outdoor Unit The configuration of the outdoor unit (20) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5. In the following description, terms such as "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "front," and "rear" refer to the directions indicated by the arrows in FIG. 2. The outdoor unit (20) has a casing (21), components of a refrigerant circuit (11), and components of a water circuit (40). The components of the refrigerant circuit (11) include, in addition to the above-mentioned elements, refrigerant piping, a solenoid valve, an internal heat exchanger, a filter, piping insulation, and the like. The outdoor unit (20) has a partition member (45) that partitions the casing (21) and a fan (30) that transports outdoor air.

[0042] (2-1) Casing and Partition Member The casing (21) is installed outdoors. The casing (21) is formed in a hollow box shape. Strictly speaking, the casing (21) is formed in a box shape with a portion of the left and rear faces open. The casing (21) is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape with the first direction (left-right direction) as the longitudinal direction and the second direction (front-rear direction) as the lateral direction. The casing (21) is made of a metal plate material. The casing (21) has a top plate (22), a bottom plate (23), a right plate (24), a left plate (25), a front plate (26), and a rear plate (27). The top plate (22) forms the upper surface of the casing (21), the bottom plate (23) forms the lower surface of the casing (21), the right plate (24) forms the right surface of the casing (21), the left plate (25) forms the left surface of the casing (21), the front plate (26) forms the front surface of the casing (21), and the rear plate (27) forms the rear surface of the casing (21). The left plate (25) is located toward the front of the casing (21) and is continuous with the front plate (26). The rear plate (27) is located toward the right of the casing (21) and is continuous with the right plate (24).

[0043] A partition member (45) is provided inside the casing (21). The partition member (45) extends from the bottom plate (23) to the top plate (22). The partition member (45) extends in the front-to-rear direction in a top view. The partition member (45) may have a curved or bent shape in a top view, or may be formed into a curved shape. The partition member (45) divides the interior of the casing (21) into a fan chamber (S1) that is a first chamber and a machine chamber (S2) that is a second chamber. The fan chamber (S1) is formed on the left side of the casing (21), and the machine chamber (S2) is formed on the right side of the casing (21).

[0044] The casing (21) is formed with an inlet (28) and an outlet (29). The inlet (28) is formed in the casing (21) from the rear surface of the fan chamber (S1) to the left surface. The outlet (29) is formed in the front plate (26) of the casing (21) in a portion in front of the fan chamber (S1). In the fan chamber (S1), a flow path through which outdoor air flows is formed from the inlet (28) to the outlet (29).

[0045] (2-2) Configuration of the Fan Chamber The fan chamber (S1) is formed as a substantially rectangular parallelepiped space. The length of the fan chamber (S1) in the first direction is greater than the length of the fan chamber (S1) in the second direction. The fan chamber (S1) is provided with an air heat exchanger (13), a fan (30), and a bell mouth (31).

[0046] The air heat exchanger (13) is formed in an L-shape when viewed from above. The air heat exchanger (13) has a first heat exchange section (13a) along the rear surface of the fan chamber (S1) and a second heat exchange section (13b) along the left surface of the fan chamber (S1). The air heat exchanger (13) is a fin-and-tube heat exchanger. The heat transfer tubes of the air heat exchanger (13) are formed of flat multi-hole tubes, but may also be straight tubes.

[0047] The fan (30) is a propeller fan having a motor (30a) and an impeller (30b). The motor (30a) is located rearward of the impeller (30b). The motor (30a) is supported by a support base (32) attached to the bottom plate (23). The motor (30a) drives and rotates the impeller (30b). The bell mouth (31) is cylindrical and formed around the impeller (30b). The bell mouth (31) is continuous with the air outlet (29).

[0048] A portion of the air heat exchanger (13) of this embodiment extends to the machine room (S2). The first heat exchange section (13a) is located rearward of the partition member (45). The first heat exchange section (13a) extends rightward so as to pass through a space behind the rear end of the partition member (45). The right end of the first heat exchange section (13a) is located in the machine room (S2).

[0049] (3) Configuration of the Machine Room The machine room (S2) is formed as a substantially rectangular parallelepiped space. The length of the machine room (S2) in the first direction is approximately equal to the length of the machine room (S2) in the second direction. The length of the machine room (S2) in the third direction (vertical direction) is greater than the lengths of the machine room (S2) in the first and second directions. The length of the machine room (S2) in the first direction is smaller than the length of the fan room (S1) in the first direction. A compressor (12), a water heat exchanger (15), a gas-liquid separator (44), and an accumulator (17) are disposed in the machine room (S2). The outdoor unit (20) further includes a vibration isolation mechanism (50), a sound insulation member (60), and a filling unit (70).

[0050] (3-1) Compressor The compressor (12) is disposed near the front and left side of the machine room (S2). The compressor (12) has a cylindrical compressor casing (12a). The compressor casing (12a) is formed in the shape of a vertically elongated hollow cylinder whose height is greater than its outer diameter. The compressor casing (12a) constitutes a sealed pressure-resistant container. A suction pipe (19) is connected to the top of the compressor (12). A discharge pipe (18) is connected to the body of the compressor (12). The compressor (12) is, for example, a scroll compressor.

[0051] (3-2) Water Heat Exchanger The water heat exchanger (15) is disposed on the right side of the machine room (S2). The water heat exchanger (15) is closer to the right plate (24) than the compressor (12). The water heat exchanger (15) is closer to the rear plate (27) than the compressor (12). The water heat exchanger (15) is a plate-type heat exchanger. A first water pipe (41), a second water pipe (42), and a refrigerant pipe (not shown) are connected to the water heat exchanger (15).

[0052] (3-3) Gas-Liquid Separator The gas-liquid separator (44) is disposed above the water heat exchanger (15). The gas-liquid separator (44) is supported from below by the water heat exchanger (15). The gas-liquid separator (44) is provided with a discharge path for discharging the gas refrigerant separated therein and a gas vent valve for opening and closing the discharge path (not shown).

[0053] (3-4) Accumulator The accumulator (17) is connected to the suction pipe (19). The accumulator (17) is disposed toward the rear of the machine room (S2). The accumulator (17) is closer to the rear plate (27) than the compressor (12) and the water heat exchanger (15). The accumulator (17) is formed in the shape of a vertically elongated hollow cylinder whose height is greater than its outer diameter.

[0054] (3-5) Vibration Isolation Mechanism The vibration isolation mechanism (50) suppresses vibration of the compressor (12) and the accumulator (17). The vibration isolation mechanism (50) of this embodiment includes a support plate (51) that supports the compressor (12) from below, and an elastic support part (52) that is fixed on the bottom plate (23) and supports the support plate (51) from below.

[0055] The compressor (12) is fixed on a support plate (51). The support plate (51) is a plate member having a substantially triangular shape when viewed from above. A circular hole is formed in the center of the support plate (51) into which the bottom of the compressor (12) fits.

[0056] The vibration-proof mechanism (50) of this embodiment has three elastic support members (52). Each elastic support member (52) is disposed near one of the three tops of the support plate (51). The elastic support members (52) are disposed between the support plate (51) and the bottom plate (23). The elastic support members (52) directly support the support plate (51) from below. The elastic support members (52) are made of rubber or urethane. Vibrations of the compressor (12) are attenuated by the elastic support members (52) before being transmitted to the bottom plate (23).

[0057] In this embodiment, the cylinder (71) of the filling unit (70) is not supported by the support plate (51) but is fixed on the bottom plate (23).

[0058] (3-6) Sound Insulation Member The sound insulation member (60) prevents noise generated during operation of the compressor (12) from propagating to the outside of the casing (21). The sound insulation member (60) is formed in the shape of a hollow box that is open at the bottom. The sound insulation member (60) has an upper wall (61), a right wall (62), a left wall (63), a front wall (64), and a rear wall (65). The upper wall (61) faces the top plate (22) and constitutes the upper surface of the sound insulation member (60). The right wall (62) faces the right plate (24) and constitutes the right surface of the sound insulation member (60). The left wall (63) faces the partition member (45) and constitutes the left surface of the sound insulation member (60). The front wall (64) faces the front plate (26) and constitutes the front surface of the sound insulation member (60). The rear wall (65) faces the rear plate (27) and constitutes the rear surface of the sound insulating member (60). The front wall (64) is detachable from the main body of the sound insulating member (60).

[0059] The sound insulating member (60) is supported on the bottom plate (23) of the casing (21). The sound insulating member (60) is made of an air-impermeable material, such as a metal plate or a rubber sheet.

[0060] The sound insulating member (60) forms an internal space (66) surrounding the compressor (12). In this embodiment, the internal space (66) accommodates devices such as the compressor (12), the accumulator (17), the water heat exchanger (15), and the filling unit (70).

[0061] The sound insulating member (60) and the casing (21) are disposed with a predetermined gap therebetween. In other words, a gap (67) is formed between the outer surface of the sound insulating member (60) and the inner surface of the casing (21). This gap (67) prevents noise generated during operation of the compressor (12) from being transmitted to the outside of the casing (21).

[0062] (3-7) Charging Unit The charging unit (70) is disposed to the right of the machine room (S2) and toward the front of the machine room (S2). The charging unit (70) includes a cylinder (71), a connecting pipe (72), a control valve (73), and a protective member (74).

[0063] The cylinder (71) stores a flammable refrigerant to be filled into the refrigerant circuit (11). The cylinder (71) is filled with the refrigerant before shipping the heat source device (1). Therefore, the cylinder (71) contains the refrigerant during storage or transportation of the heat source device (1). After the heat source device (1) is installed on-site, the refrigerant is filled into the refrigerant circuit (11) from the cylinder (71) before operation of the heat source device (1). Therefore, the cylinder (71) is empty when the heat source device (1) is in use.

[0064] The cylinder (71) is formed in the shape of a vertically long hollow cylinder whose height is greater than its outer diameter. The cylinder (71) constitutes a sealed pressure-resistant container. The rigidity of the cylinder (71) is smaller than the rigidity of the compressor casing (12a).

[0065] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 , a discharge port (71a) is formed in the lower part of the cylinder (71). Strictly speaking, the discharge port (71a) is formed in the bottom part of the cylinder (71). Flammable refrigerants have a relatively high density. By locating the discharge port (71a) in the lower part of the cylinder (71), it is possible to promote the discharge of the refrigerant. In addition, it is possible to prevent the refrigerant from remaining in the cylinder (71) when the refrigerant circuit (11) is filled with the refrigerant.

[0066] The connecting pipe (72) is a pipe for injecting the refrigerant from the cylinder (71) into the refrigerant circuit (11). One end of the connecting pipe (72) is connected to the outlet (71a) of the cylinder (71) and communicates with the interior of the cylinder (71). The other end of the connecting pipe (72) is connected to the suction pipe (19). The connecting pipe (72) is located below the cylinder (71).

[0067] The control valve (73) is provided on the connecting pipe (72). The control valve (73) adjusts the opening degree of the connecting pipe (72). The control valve (73) is an example of an on-off valve that opens and closes the connecting pipe (72). The control valve (73) is located below the cylinder (71).

[0068] The protective member (74) has a function of protecting the connecting pipe (72) and the regulating valve (73). The protective member (74) also has a function of supporting the cylinder (71) from below. The protective member (74) has a partition wall (74a) that surrounds the connecting pipe (72) and the regulating valve (73). The partition wall (74a) has an opening (74b) that exposes the regulating valve (73) located therein to the outside of the partition wall (74a).

[0069] (3-8) Access Port As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, an access port (A) is formed on the front side of the casing (21). The front plate (26) is provided with a front panel (26a) that is detachable from the main body. By removing the front panel (26a), the access port (A) is exposed to the outside of the casing (21). By removing the front wall (64) from the sound-proofing member (60), the internal equipment of the casing (21) is exposed to the outside of the casing (21). The compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) overlap with the access port (A) in the second direction. A worker on the front side of the casing (21) can access the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) through the access port (A). The worker can perform maintenance on the compressor (12) and operate the control valve (73) through the opening (74b).

[0070] (4) Characteristics of the Arrangement of the Bottom Plate, Compressor, and Cylinder The compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) are installed directly or indirectly on the bottom plate (23). The arrangement of the bottom plate (23), the compressor (12), and the cylinder (71) will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram of the bottom plate (23) of the casing as viewed from above. For convenience, some components are not shown in Fig. 6.

[0071] (4-1) Configuration of the Bottom Plate The bottom plate (23) is formed in a substantially rectangular shape with the first direction as its longitudinal direction. The bottom plate (23) has four side edges. The four side edges are composed of a right edge (23a) formed on the right side, a left edge (23b) formed on the left side, a front edge (23c) formed in front of the left side, and a rear edge (23d) formed in rear of the right side. The front plate (26) of the casing (21) corresponds to the front edge (23c) and constitutes a first side surface having an access opening (A). The right plate (24) of the casing (21) constitutes a second side surface corresponding to the right edge (23a). The right edge (23a), the right portion of the front edge (23c), and the right portion of the rear edge (23d) constitute a machine chamber side surface located on the machine chamber (S2) side.

[0072] The right side (23a) of the bottom plate (23) has a first end (E1) and a second end (E2). The first end (E1) is the front end of the right side (23a). The second end (E2) is the rear end of the right side (23a). In this embodiment, the first end (E1) forms a first corner where the right side (23a) and the front side (23c) are continuous. The second end (E2) forms a second corner where the right side (23a) and the rear side (23d) are continuous.

[0073] (4-2) In the arrangement diagram 6, the first center of gravity (C1) is the center of gravity of the compressor (12) in a top view. The second center of gravity (C2) is the center of gravity of the cylinder (71) in a top view. The "top view of the bottom plate (23)" here refers to the bottom plate (23) viewed from above in an installed state of the heat source device (1). The "center of gravity" here refers to the center of mass in a top view or the center of mass in the horizontal direction. The "center of gravity" is not the center of mass in the vertical direction. The first line (L1) is a line passing through the first center of gravity (C1) of the compressor (12) and the second center of gravity (C2) of the cylinder (71) in a top view. The second line (L2) is a line perpendicular to the right side (23a), which is the side edge of the bottom plate (23), and passing through the center of gravity of the compressor (12) in a top view. In other words, the second straight line (L2) is a perpendicular line to the right side (23a) of the bottom plate (23) in a top view.

[0074] In this embodiment, the first line (L1) and the second line (L2) form a predetermined first angle (θ1). The first angle (θ1) is a predetermined angle greater than 0°. Specifically, the second line (L2) is offset from the first line (L1) by the first angle (θ1) toward the front side of the bottom plate (23). In other words, the second line (L2) is offset from the first line (L1) by the first angle (θ1) toward the access opening (A).

[0075] (4-3) Problems when the casing falls The heat source device (1) accommodates a cylinder (71) inside the casing (21). The cylinder (71) stores propane, which is a flammable natural refrigerant. When the heat source device (1) is transported, there is a possibility that the casing (21) may fall.

[0076] FIG. 7 shows a comparative example of a heat source device. In the comparative example, the first line (L1) and the second line (L2) coincide with each other. In the comparative example, the casing (21) falls and collides with the ground (G) with its right side (23a) parallel to the ground (G). When the casing (21) collides with the ground (G), the compressor (12) moves toward the ground (G) in the direction of gravity. As a result, as shown in FIG. 7B , the compressor (12) collides with the gas cylinder (71) so that the two lines overlap in the vertical direction. When the first line (L1) and the second line (L2) coincide with each other, the load acting on the gas cylinder (71) (strictly speaking, the impact load) increases. This is because the vector of the impact load (shown by the white arrow in FIG. 7B ) when the compressor (12) collides with the gas cylinder (71) coincides with the direction of gravity. Here, the impact load is a force directed from the first center of gravity (C1) of the compressor (12) to the second center of gravity (C2) of the cylinder (71). As a result, the cylinder (71) is more likely to be damaged. If the cylinder (71) is damaged, flammable refrigerant will leak.

[0077] (4-4) Actions of the Casing in the Present Embodiment When Dropped The actions of the casing (21) in the present embodiment when dropped under the following first and second conditions will be described.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 8 , the first condition is that the right side (23a) of the bottom plate (23) of the dropped casing (21) contacts the ground (G) while being parallel to the ground (G). In this embodiment, the first line (L1) and the second line (L2) form a first angle (θ1). Therefore, as shown in FIG. 8(B) , the impact load when the compressor (12) collides with the cylinder (71) is reduced. This is because the vector of the collision load when the compressor (12) collides with the cylinder (71) (shown as an outline arrow in FIG. 8(B) ) is shifted by the first angle θ1 with respect to the direction of gravity. As a result, damage to the cylinder (71) can be suppressed, and leakage of flammable refrigerant can be suppressed.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 9 , the second condition is a condition in which the casing (21) contacts the ground in a state in which a first line (L1) connecting the first center of gravity (C1) of the compressor (12) and the second center of gravity (C2) of the cylinder (71) is aligned with the vertical direction (the direction of gravity). In this embodiment, the first line (L1) and the second line (L2) are offset by a first angle (θ1). Therefore, when the casing (21) collides with the ground (G), the side edge (right edge (23a)) of the bottom plate (23) is tilted with respect to the ground (G). This can promote deformation of the bottom plate (23) and the right plate (24) before the compressor (12) collides with the cylinder (71). As a result, the kinetic energy of the compressor (12) can be absorbed by the deformation of the casing (21), thereby reducing the impact acting from the compressor (12) on the cylinder (71).

[0080] (5) Effects of the Embodiment (5-1) In the present embodiment, the first line (L1) is defined as a line passing through the center of gravity of the compressor (12) and the center of gravity of the cylinder (71) in a top view of the bottom plate (23) from above. The second line (L2) is defined as a line perpendicular to the side edge (the right side (23a) in this example) of the bottom plate (23) and passing through the center of gravity of the compressor (12) in a top view. The first line (L1) is shifted by a predetermined first angle (θ1) with respect to the second line (L2).

[0081] 8, when the casing (21) collides with the ground (G) with the right side (23a) parallel to the ground (G), the impact load acting on the cylinder (71) from the compressor (12) is displaced by a first angle (θ1) with respect to the direction of gravity, thereby reducing the impact load and preventing damage to the cylinder (71).

[0082] As shown in Fig. 9, when the casing (21) collides with the ground (G) with the first line (L1) aligned with the direction of gravity, the deformation of the bottom plate (23) and the right plate (24) can be promoted. Therefore, the operating energy of the compressor (12) can be absorbed by the deformation of the casing (21), and damage to the cylinder (71) can be suppressed.

[0083] (5-2) The heat source device (1) further includes a support plate (51) that supports the compressor (12) from below, and an elastic support part (52) that is fixed on the bottom plate (23) and supports the support plate (51) from below. The cylinder (71) is not supported by the support plate (51) but is fixed on the bottom plate (23).

[0084] In this configuration, the elastic support portion (52) absorbs vibrations of the compressor (12), thereby reducing vibrations of the compressor (12) during operation.

[0085] The compressor (12) is fixed to the bottom plate (23) via the elastic support parts (52), and the cylinder (71) is fixed to the bottom plate (23) without the elastic support parts (52). Therefore, when the casing (21) falls, the acceleration of the compressor (12) in the direction of gravity is smaller than the acceleration of the cylinder (71) in the direction of gravity. In addition, when the compressor (12) collides with the cylinder (71), the compressor (12) moves upward together with the elastic support parts (52). As a result, the impact load when the compressor (12) collides with the cylinder (71) can be reduced.

[0086] (5-3) The heat source device further includes a soundproofing member (60) surrounding the compressor (12), thereby reducing the operating noise of the compressor (12).

[0087] When the casing (21) falls, the sound-insulating member (60) is located between the cylinder (71) and the ground (G), and therefore, the sound-insulating member (60) can reduce the impact when the cylinder (71) indirectly hits the ground (G).

[0088] (5-4) Since the first straight line (L1) is shifted by the angle (θ1) toward the first side surface (26) with respect to the second straight line (L2), the impact acting on the cylinder (71) can be reduced. Since the cylinder (71) is closer to the access opening (A), the worker can easily access the cylinder (71), specifically, the control valve (73), through the access opening (A). As a result, the worker can easily perform the refrigerant charging operation.

[0089] (5-5) The casing (21) accommodates the entire refrigerant circuit (11). In other words, the refrigerant circuit (11) is formed as a closed circuit inside the casing (21). Therefore, compared to, for example, a separate-type refrigeration cycle device, the amount of refrigerant required to be charged in the refrigerant circuit (11) is reduced, and the size of the cylinder (71) can be reduced. As a result, the rigidity of the cylinder (71) can be increased, and damage to the cylinder (71) can be suppressed.

[0090] (6) Modifications The above embodiment may be modified as follows: The following describes the differences from the above embodiment.

[0091] (6-1) Modification 1 As shown schematically in FIG. 10 , the vibration-damping mechanism (50) of Modification 1 differs in configuration from the vibration-damping mechanism (50) of the embodiment. In the vibration-damping mechanism (50) of Modification 1, a support plate (51) supports the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) from below. The compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) are not fixed to the top of the bottom plate (23). A plurality of elastic support members (52) are fixed to the top of the bottom plate (23) and support the support plate (51) from below. In this example, the support plate (51) is formed in a rectangular plate shape. Each elastic support member (52) is disposed at each corner of the support plate (51).

[0092] In this example, the position of the elastic support portion (52) is closer to the side edge (right edge (23a)) of the bottom plate (23) relative to the position of the cylinder (71) in the first direction. More specifically, when viewed from above when the casing (21) is installed, the elastic support portion (52) is disposed between the cylinder (71) and the front corner of the bottom plate (23). When viewed from above when the casing (21) is installed, the elastic support portion (52) is preferably located on the second straight line (L2).

[0093] In the first modification, when the casing (21) falls from the right side (23a) side, the bottom plate (23) and the support plate (51) are deformed before the cylinder (71) hits the ground (G). As a result, the kinetic energy of the compressor (12) can be absorbed, and the impact on the cylinder (71) can be reduced.

[0094] (6-2) Modification 2 As shown schematically in Fig. 11 , in Modification 2, a buffer member (80) is disposed between the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71). In Modification 2, the sound insulation member (60) houses the compressor (12) but does not house the cylinder (71). In other words, the cylinder (71) is located outside the sound insulation member (60). The right wall (62) of the sound insulation member (60) constitutes the buffer member (80) between the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71).

[0095] In the second modification, when the casing (21) falls from the right side (23a) side, the shock absorbing member (80) (sound insulating member) absorbs the impact acting on the cylinder (71) when the compressor (12) moves in the direction of gravity, thereby preventing damage to the cylinder (71).

[0096] The buffer member (80) disposed between the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) does not have to be the sound-insulating member (60) and may be, for example, a sound-absorbing material. The buffer member (80) may be a component part of the refrigerant circuit (11), such as the water heat exchanger (15) or a refrigerant pipe.

[0097] (6-3) Modification 3 As shown in FIG. 12 , in Modification 3, a sound-absorbing material (90) is provided inside the sound-insulating member (60). The sound-absorbing material (90) is an open-cell resin material, such as urethane. The sound-absorbing material (90) is formed on the inside of each of the top wall (61), right wall (62), left wall (63), front wall (64), and rear wall (65) of the sound-insulating member (60). The use of the sound-absorbing material (90) improves the noise reduction effect. When the casing (21) falls, the sound-absorbing material (90) absorbs the impact of the cylinder (71) hitting the ground (G). The sound-absorbing material (90) may be provided on the outside of the sound-insulating member (60) instead of the inside, or may be provided on both the inside and outside of the sound-insulating member (60).

[0098] (6-4) Modification 4 Modification 4 differs from the above-described embodiment in the relationship between the first line (L1) and the second line (L2). In Modification 4, the first position (P1) is closer to the third position (P3) than the second position (P2). In other words, the distance between the first position (P1) and the third position (P3) is shorter than the distance between the first position (P1) and the second position (P2).

[0099] As shown in FIG. 13 , the first position (P1) is the position of the intersection of the first line (L1) and the right side (23a), which is the side edge, in a top view of the bottom plate (23). The second position (P2) is the position of the intersection of the second line (L2) and the right side (23a), in a top view. The third position (P3) is the position of the end of the right side (23a), in a top view. Specifically, the third position (P3) in this example corresponds to the position of the first end (E1), which is the front end of the right side (23a).

[0100] In the fourth modification, the first position (P1) is closer to the third position (P3) than the second position (P2). In other words, the first straight line (L1) is located closer to the end (first end (E1)) of the right side (23a) than the second straight line (L2).

[0101] In the fourth modification, when the right side (23a) of the casing (21) collides with the ground (G) while being parallel to the ground (G), the impact load acting from the compressor (12) on the cylinder (71) is further reduced. This is because the deviation of the first angle (θ1) of the vector of the impact load with respect to the direction of gravity is further increased. This reduces the impact load and prevents damage to the cylinder (71).

[0102] If the casing (21) collides with the ground (G) with the first line (L1) aligned with the direction of gravity, the deformation of the bottom plate (23) will be even greater because the distance from the center of gravity of the compressor (12) to the first position (P1) will be longer. Therefore, the operating energy of the compressor (12) can be further absorbed by the deformation of the casing (21), and damage to the cylinder (71) can be suppressed.

[0103] In the fourth modification, as shown in Fig. 13, a corner portion is formed at the end of the side edge (right edge (23a)). However, as shown in Fig. 14, the end of the side edge (23a) may be connected to an arc portion in a top view. In this case, the connection between the side edge (right edge) and the arc portion forms the end portion of the side edge (23a) (first position (P1)).

[0104] (7) Other Embodiments The heat source device (1) may constitute a part of a refrigeration cycle device. Specifically, the refrigeration cycle device may be a separate type in which a heat source unit, which is the heat source device (1), and a utilization unit are connected via a connecting pipe. The refrigeration cycle device may be an air conditioner, a transportable refrigeration device, a stationary refrigeration device, or the like.

[0105] The side (23a) defining the first straight line (L1) and the second straight line (L2) does not have to be the right side (23a) of the bottom plate (23) but may be the front side (23c), rear side (23d), or left side (23b). However, the side is preferably the side on the machine room side formed on the machine room (S2) side, not on the fan room (S1) side.

[0106] The end of the side edge (23a) for defining the third position (P3) may be the second end (E2) or an end of one of the other side edges (23b, 23c, 23d).

[0107] The vibration-damping mechanism (50) may have a lower support plate that supports the elastic support portion (52) of the embodiment from below, and a lower elastic support portion that is fixed on the bottom plate (23) and supports the lower support plate from below.

[0108] The sound insulating member (60) may cover only the compressor (12).

[0109] Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various modifications in form and detail are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Furthermore, elements of the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be combined or substituted as appropriate. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc. in the specification and claims are used to distinguish between terms to which these terms are attached, and do not limit the number or order of those terms.

[0110] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY As described above, the present disclosure is useful for heat source devices.

[0111] 1 heat source device 11 refrigerant circuit 12 compressor 15 water heat exchanger 21 casing 23 bottom plate 23a right side (side) 24 right plate (second side) 26 front plate (first side) 51 support plate 52 elastic support part 60 sound insulation material 71 cylinder 80 cushioning material 90 sound absorbing material A access opening L1 first straight line L2 second straight line P1 first position P2 second position P3 third position θ1 first angle

Claims

1. A refrigerant cooling device comprising: a compressor (12) included in a refrigerant circuit (11) that performs a refrigeration cycle; a cylinder (71) that stores a flammable refrigerant to be filled into the refrigerant circuit (11) and has, at a lower part thereof, an outlet (71a) for discharging the flammable refrigerant; and a casing (21) having a bottom plate (23) on which the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) are placed, wherein the cylinder (71) is disposed between the compressor (12) and a side edge (23a) of the bottom plate (23), a first straight line (L1) is defined as a straight line passing through the center of gravity of the compressor (12) and the center of gravity of the cylinder (71) in a top view of the bottom plate (23), and a second straight line (L2) is defined as a straight line that is perpendicular to the side edge (23a) of the bottom plate (23) and passes through the center of gravity of the compressor (12), in a top view of the bottom plate (23), The heat source device, wherein the first straight line (L1) and the second straight line (L2) form a predetermined angle (θ1).

2. The heat source device according to claim 1, further comprising: a support plate (51) that supports the compressor (12) from below; and an elastic support part (52) that is fixed on the bottom plate (23) and supports the support plate (51) from below, wherein the cylinder (71) is not supported by the support plate (51) but is fixed on the bottom plate (23).

3. The heat source device according to claim 1, further comprising: a support plate (51) that supports the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) from below; and an elastic support part (52) that is fixed onto the bottom plate (23) and supports the support plate (51) from below.

4. The heat source device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a buffer member (80) disposed between the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71).

5. The heat source device according to claim 4, wherein the buffer member (80) is a component part of the refrigerant circuit (11).

6. The heat source device according to claim 5, wherein the component parts include a water heat exchanger (15) or a refrigerant pipe.

7. The heat source device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a sound insulating member (60) surrounding the compressor (12).

8. The heat source device according to claim 7, wherein the cylinder (71) is disposed outside the sound insulating member (60).

9. The heat source device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a sound absorbing material (90) arranged to overlap the outer surface or the inner surface of the casing (21).

10. A heat source device as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein a first position (P1) is defined as the position of the intersection of the first straight line (L1) and the side edge (23a) in the top view, a second position (P2) is defined as the position of the intersection of the second straight line (L2) and the side edge (23a) in the top view, and a third position (P3) is defined as the position of the end (E1) of the side edge (23a) in the top view, and the distance between the first position (P1) and the third position (P3) is shorter than the distance between the first position (P1) and the second position (P2).

11. A heat source device as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the casing (21) has a first side surface (26) having an access opening (A) and a second side surface (24) corresponding to the side edge (23a) of the bottom plate (23), and the first straight line (L1) is offset from the second straight line (L2) by a predetermined angle (θ1) toward the first side surface (26).

12. The heat source device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the casing (21) accommodates the entire refrigerant circuit (11).

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