Air conditioner

Abstract

An air conditioner disclosed herein comprises an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The outdoor unit is provided with a motor support part that supports a motor for rotating a fan. The motor support part is provided with a flow-straightening member and a support member that is installed spaced apart from and downstream of the flow-straightening member with respect to an airflow direction. The support member includes an upstream region that faces the flow-straightening member and a downstream region that is downstream of the upstream region. In a cross-section parallel to the airflow direction and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flow-straightening member, the width of the flow-straightening member increases from the upstream side toward the downstream side in the airflow direction, and the width of the downstream region of the support member remains constant or decreases from the upstream side toward the downstream side in the airflow direction.

Description

air conditioner

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

[0002] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2007-147249 discloses an outdoor unit of an air conditioning system. The outdoor unit comprises an outdoor heat exchanger, a fan, a motor for driving the fan, and a motor support for supporting the motor. The fan supplies air to the outdoor heat exchanger to facilitate heat exchange between the refrigerant and the air. A rectification member is installed on the motor support. The rectification member deflects the air flowing toward the motor support in a predetermined direction.

[0003] An air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include an outdoor unit comprising an outdoor heat exchanger and an indoor unit connected to the outdoor unit by a refrigerant pipe and comprising an indoor heat exchanger. The outdoor unit may include a fan, a motor that rotates the fan, and a motor support member installed within the airflow generated by the rotation of the fan to support the motor. The motor support member may include a rectifier member and a support member. The support member is installed on the downstream side of the rectifier member with respect to the direction of the airflow, spaced apart from the rectifier member by a gap. The support member may have an upstream area facing the rectifier member and a downstream area downstream of the upstream area. In a cross-section parallel to the direction of the airflow and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the rectifier member, the width of the rectifier member may be expanded from the upstream side to the downstream side in the direction of the airflow. In a cross-section parallel to the airflow direction and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the rectification member, the width of the downstream region of the support member may be constant or decrease as it moves from the upstream side to the downstream side of the airflow direction.

[0004] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0005] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure shown in FIG. 1, viewed at point V1 of FIG. 1.

[0006] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the motor support shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, viewed from the V2-point of FIG. 2.

[0007] Figure 4a is a drawing showing the rectification effect by a motor support according to a comparative example that is not divided into a rectification member and a support member.

[0008] FIG. 4b is a drawing showing the rectification effect by a motor support according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, which is divided into a rectification member and a support member.

[0009] FIG. 5a is a schematic perspective view of a motor support according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 5b is an enlarged view of the first connecting member and the second connecting member shown in FIG. 5a.

[0011] FIG. 5c is an enlarged view of the third and fourth connecting members shown in FIG. 5a.

[0012] FIGS. 6a and FIG. 6b are schematic cross-sectional views of a motor support according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a motor support according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the dimensions of the rectifying member and the supporting member illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0015] Figure 9a is a graph showing the relationship between the ratio of the length of the commutator member to the length of the motor support and the shaft power.

[0016] Figure 9b is a graph showing the relationship between the ratio of the length of the rectifier member to the length of the motor support and the blower noise.

[0017] Figure 10a is a graph showing the relationship between the ratio of the distance between the commutator member and the support member to the length of the motor support and the shaft power.

[0018] Figure 10b is a graph showing the relationship between the ratio of the distance between the rectifier member and the support member to the length of the motor support and the blower noise.

[0019] Figure 11a is a graph showing the relationship between the ratio of the maximum width of the cross-section of the support member to the maximum width of the cross-section of the rectifying member and the shaft power.

[0020] Figure 11b is a graph showing the relationship between the ratio of the maximum width of the cross-section of the support member to the maximum width of the cross-section of the rectifying member and the blowing noise.

[0021] Figure 12 is a drawing showing planes that cut the outdoor unit.

[0022] Figure 13 is a drawing showing the airflow within a cross-section of an outdoor unit along a plane (X).

[0023] Figure 13 is a drawing showing the airflow within a cross-section of an outdoor unit along the plane (Y).

[0024] Figure 13 is a drawing showing the airflow within a cross-section of an outdoor unit along a plane (Z).

[0025] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing conditions regarding the cross-sectional shape of the rectifying member and the supporting member when considering the airflow shown in FIG. 13.

[0026] FIG. 17 is a drawing showing conditions regarding the cross-sectional shape of the rectifying member and the supporting member when considering the airflow illustrated in FIG. 14.

[0027] FIG. 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 19 is a schematic block diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments.

[0030] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0031] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0032] In this document, each of the phrases such as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0033] The term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0034] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another component and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0035] Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0036] Terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this document, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0037] When it is said that a component is "connected," "combined," "supported," or "in contact" with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, combined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, combined, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0038] When it is said that a component is located "on" another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with the other, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0039] The outdoor unit of an air conditioner is equipped with an outdoor heat exchanger, a fan that provides airflow for heat exchange with the outdoor heat exchanger, and a motor that rotates the fan. The motor is supported by a motor support in the outdoor unit case. As the fan rotates, external air is drawn into the outdoor unit by the suction force generated inside, passes through the heat exchanger and the fan, and is discharged to the outside of the outdoor unit. In air conditioners, compactness, high efficiency, and low noise are required. Improvements in noise reduction and high efficiency have been made through the shape of the fan and the shape of structures within the airflow path.

[0040] When a portion of the airflow is drawn into the fan at an angle relative to the direction of the main flow, the airflow tends to separate or delaminate near the motor support, causing the wake width or slipstream width to increase slightly. As a result, the airflow entering the fan may become turbulent or biased, which can lead to increased noise or reduced airflow efficiency.

[0041] The present disclosure provides an outdoor unit of an air conditioner and an air conditioner employing the same, which can suppress airflow separation at a motor support or the expansion of the wake width therefrom even when a portion of the airflow is drawn into the fan at an angle with respect to the direction of the main flow. However, the technical problems to be solved by the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0042] Hereinafter, embodiments of an air conditioner according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0043] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an outdoor unit (1) of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 1, the outdoor unit (1) may be equipped with a heat exchanger (51) and a blower. The blower may be equipped with a fan (10), a motor (20), a motor plate (30), and a motor support (motor support part) (40).

[0044] The fan (10) forms an airflow indicated by the arrow (AF1) due to the pressure difference obtained by rotation. Below, the direction of the main airflow is indicated as AF1. The motor (20) rotates the fan. The rotor of the motor (20) is connected to the rotation axis of the fan (10). When power is supplied to the motor (20), the rotor rotates, and thereby the rotation axis of the fan (10) rotates. The motor plate (30) is connected to the stator of the motor (20) and directly supports the motor (20). The motor support (40) is fixed to the motor plate (30) and directly or indirectly supports the motor (20) to the outdoor unit case (80) through the motor plate (30). Here, indirect support means that one or more intermediate members may be interposed between the motor support (40) and the outdoor unit case (80). The motor support (40) is equipped with a rectifier member (41) and a support member (42) that are spaced apart from each other. The rectification member (41) and the support member (42) will be explained in detail later.

[0045] The airflow indicated by the arrow (AF2) is generated by the airflow indicated by the arrow (AF1), and this airflow passes through the heat exchanger (51). During this process, heat exchange is performed between the air and the refrigerant. Although not shown in the drawing, the outdoor unit (1) may also include other general components for circulating the refrigerant, such as a compressor.

[0046] The outdoor unit (1) of the present embodiment is a so-called top-blowing type outdoor unit. In one embodiment, the heat exchanger (51) in the outdoor unit (1) may be positioned approximately parallel to the rotation axis of the fan (10). The heat exchanger (51) may be positioned symmetrically with respect to the rotation axis of the fan (10) in a plane that is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the motor support (40) and includes the rotation axis of the fan (10). In other words, the heat exchanger (51) may have a plane that is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the motor support (40), parallel to the plane that includes the rotation axis of the fan (10), and symmetrical with respect to that plane.

[0047] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of an outdoor unit (1) of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure shown in FIG. 1, viewed at point V1 of FIG. 1. In FIG. 2, the heat exchanger (51) is omitted.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 2, the motor plate (30) may have a rectangular plate shape. Both the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) may have a pillar shape. The rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) are spaced apart from each other over the entire pillar shape. That is, the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) are positioned spaced apart from each other over the entire length direction. The rectifier member (41) is installed on the upstream side with respect to the air flow direction. The support member (42) is positioned on the downstream side of the rectifier member (41) with respect to the air flow direction, spaced apart from the rectifier member (41), and may be fixed to the motor plate (30). In addition, the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) are joined together by several connecting members as described later. In FIG. 2, only the two connecting members (431) at the upper end and the two connecting members (432) at the lower end are shown.

[0049] Two connecting members (431) at the top may be connected to an upper plate (not shown) for securing the motor (20) to the case (80) of the outdoor unit (1). Two connecting members at the bottom may be connected to a lower plate for securing the motor (20) to the case (80) of the outdoor unit (1).

[0050] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the motor support (40) shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, viewed from the V2-point of FIG. 2. The cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the motor support (40) cut by a plane parallel to the direction of airflow and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the motor support (40). The cross-sectional shape of the motor support (40) may have a shape that reduces the input (power) to the fan (10).

[0051] Referring to FIG. 3, in the cross-section of the rectification member (41), the width gradually increases from the upstream side to the downstream side with respect to the air flow direction (AF1). In the cross-section of the rectification member (41), the width can be curvedly increased from the upstream side to the downstream side with respect to the air flow direction. In the cross-section of the rectification member (41), the width can be maximum at the lowest downstream side with respect to the air flow direction.

[0052] In the cross-section of the support member (42), the width may expand from the upstream side to the downstream side with respect to the direction of air flow, and then become approximately constant or slightly reduced. In other words, in the cross-section of the support member (42), the upstream area (42a) facing the rectification member (41) gradually expands in width from the upstream side to the downstream side with respect to the direction of air flow, while the downstream area (42b) does not expand in width from the upstream side to the downstream side with respect to the direction of air flow. That is, the downstream area (42b) of the support member (42) has a width that becomes approximately constant or slightly reduced from the upstream side to the downstream side with respect to the direction of air flow. The width in the upstream area (42a) may expand in a curved manner.

[0053] FIG. 4a is a drawing showing the rectification effect by a motor support (90) according to a comparative example that is not divided into a rectification member and a support member. FIG. 4b is a drawing showing the rectification effect by a motor support (40) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure that is divided into a rectification member (41) and a support member (42).

[0054] Referring to FIG. 4a, the airflow (F0) entering the motor support (90) at an angle with respect to the main flow direction, for example, the direction indicated by AF1 in FIG. 1, is divided into a left flow (F11) and a right flow (F12) at the stagnation point (S), and each flows to the outlet of the motor support (90) along the left and right curves of the motor support (90). Since the motor support (90) has a structure that is not divided into a rectifying member and a supporting member, the length of the flow path from the stagnation point (S) to the outlet of the motor support (90) (for example, the length of the left curve and the length of the right curve of the motor support (90)) is relatively long. Therefore, the pressure difference between the high-pressure section (P11) on the left side of the motor support (90) and the low-pressure section (P12) on the right side of the motor support (90) increases. As a result, the speed difference between the flow (F11) and the flow (F12) increases at the outlet of the motor support (90). Therefore, a vortex (F15) may be generated at the right outlet of the motor support (90). In other words, if there is an airflow (F0) that is inflowing at an angle relative to the direction of the main flow, separation occurs at the stagnation point before the flow (F12) that has split to one side, for example to the right, passes through the curved surface of the motor support (90).

[0055] Referring to FIG. 4b, the airflow (F0) that is inclined toward the direction of the main flow is divided into a left flow (F21) and a right flow (F22) at a stagnation point (S). In this case, the length of the flow path from the stagnation point (S) to the outlet of the rectification member (41) is relatively short. Therefore, the pressure difference between the left high-pressure part (P21) of the rectification member (41) and the right low-pressure part (P22) of the rectification member (41) is reduced. As a result, the velocity difference between the flow (F21) and the flow (F22) at the outlet of the rectification member (41) is reduced. Additionally, the flow (F21) is divided into a flow (F23) that follows the support member (42), that is, a flow that follows the left curve of the support member (42), and a flow (F24) that passes through the gap between the rectification member (41) and the support member (42). As a result, the speed difference between the flow (F23) at the outlet of the support member (42) and the confluence of the two flows (F22) (F24) is reduced. Therefore, vortices are not easily generated at the outlet of the motor support (40).

[0056] In other words, when there is an airflow (F0) that is inflowed at an angle relative to the direction of the main flow, the flow (F22) that is divided to the right based on the stagnation point (S) flows along the smooth curved surface of the rectification member (41), so it is difficult for the airflow to separate. Also, as the airflow passes through the gap between the rectification member (41) and the support member (42), the flow resistance is reduced on the side (e.g., right) opposite the side (e.g., left) where the airflow is inflowed at an angle in the motor support (40), so airflow separation is suppressed. Additionally, the flow (F24) that is divided from the flow (F21) and passes through the gap between the rectification member (41) and the support member (42) is pressed by the flow (F22) and flows along the right curved surface of the support member (42), so separation can be suppressed.

[0057] FIG. 5a is a schematic perspective view of a motor support (40) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5b is an enlarged view of the first coupling member (431) and the second coupling member (432) shown in FIG. 5a. FIG. 5c is an enlarged view of the third coupling member (433) and the fourth coupling member (434) shown in FIG. 5a. Referring to FIG. 5a, 5b, and 5c, the motor support (40) comprises a rectifier member (41) and a support member (42) as described above. The motor support (40) may further comprise a coupling member that connects the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) spaced apart from each other.

[0058] The connecting member may include an end connecting member that connects both ends of the rectifying member (41) and the supporting member (42). The end connecting member may include a first connecting member (431) and a second connecting member (432). The first connecting member (431) and the second connecting member (432) each connect the rectifying member (41) and the supporting member (42), which are spaced apart from each other, at both ends. Specifically, the first connecting member (431) and the second connecting member (432) can connect the rectifying member (41) and the supporting member (42) by being mechanically fastened to the planar portions (41P, 42P) of the rectifying member (41) and the supporting member (42), respectively.

[0059] At one end of the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) to which the first coupling member (431) is connected, the outer edge of the cross-section formed by the first coupling member (431), the rectifier member (41), and the support member (42) may be the same as the outer edge of the cross-section of the motor support (90) shown in FIG. 4(a). Likewise, at the other end of the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) to which the second coupling member (432) is connected, the outer edge of the cross-section formed by the second coupling member (432), the rectifier member (41), and the support member (42) may be the same as the outer edge of the cross-section of the motor support (90) shown in FIG. 4(a).

[0060] The coupling member may further include at least one central coupling member that combines the rectifying member (41) and the supporting member (42) at a location other than the two ends. In this embodiment, two central coupling members, for example, a third coupling member (433) and a fourth coupling member (434), are employed. The third coupling member (433) and the fourth coupling member (434) combine the rectifying member (41) and the supporting member (42) so as to be spaced apart from each other between the two ends of the rectifying member (41) and the supporting member (42). The third coupling member (433) and the fourth coupling member (434) can combine the rectifying member (41) and the supporting member (42) by mechanically fastening the planar portions (41P, 42P) of the rectifying member (41) and the supporting member (42), respectively.

[0061] The primary deformation mode of the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) is a 2-node bending mode. If the length of the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) is reduced by half, the stiffness of the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) becomes 8 times and the resonance frequency becomes 2.8 times, thereby suppressing resonance. However, since the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) are members that form the motor support (40), their length cannot be reduced.

[0062] According to the present disclosure, a rectifier member (41) and a support member (42) are joined at the central portion (between the two ends). However, if the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) are joined at the central portion with a single central joining member, resonance may occur in both parts of the central joining member in the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42). According to the present disclosure, a third joining member (433) and a fourth joining member (434) are employed as central joining members. The rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) are joined by the third joining member (433) at a position spaced apart in one direction (first direction) from the central portion of the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) (between the one end and the central portion), and the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) are joined by the fourth joining member (434) at a position spaced apart in the other direction (second direction) (between the central portion and the other end). Thus, in the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42), since both parts of the third coupling member (433) and the fourth coupling member (434) are shortened, the resonance frequency increases, making it difficult for resonance to occur. For example, a position spaced apart in the first direction from the center of the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) may be the position of the end of the first direction of the motor plate (30). Also, a position spaced apart in the second direction from the center of the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) may be the position of the end of the second direction of the motor plate (30). For example, in FIG. 2, the position of the end of the first direction of the motor plate (30) may be the position corresponding to the top (30U) of the motor plate (30). Also, the position of the end of the second direction of the motor plate (30) may be the position corresponding to the bottom (30L) of the motor plate (30).

[0063] For example, a position spaced apart in a first direction from the center of the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) may be a position spaced apart in a first direction from the motor plate (30). Also, a position spaced apart in a second direction from the center of the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) may be a position spaced apart in a second direction from the motor plate (30). For example, in FIG. 2, a position spaced apart in a first direction from the motor plate (30) may be a position spaced apart in a first direction (e.g., upward) from the top (30U) of the motor plate (30). Also, a position spaced apart in a second direction from the motor plate (30) may be a position spaced apart in a second direction (e.g., downward) from the bottom (30L) of the motor plate (30).

[0064] FIGS. 6a and 6b are schematic cross-sectional views of a motor support (40) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 6a and 6b are cross-sectional views of the motor support (40) as seen from the point (V2) of FIG. 2. FIGS. 6a and 6b are cross-sectional views of the motor support (40) cut by a plane parallel to the direction of airflow and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the motor support (40). Referring to FIG. 6a, the motor support (40) is provided with a connecting member (45) connecting a rectifier member (41) and a support member (42). The connecting member (45) connects the central part of the downstream end (e.g., the planar part (41P)) of the rectifier member (41) and the central part of the upstream end of the support member (42), and extends longitudinally along the gap (45G) between the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42). Referring to FIG. 6b, a hole (45H) is formed in the connecting member (45). One or more holes (45H) may be formed along the length of the connecting member (45).

[0065] FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a motor support (40) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the motor support (40) cut by a plane parallel to the direction of airflow and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the motor support (40). Referring to FIG. 7, in the cross-section of the rectifier member (41), the width is not maximum at the lowest downstream end. In the cross-section of the rectifier member (41), the lowest downstream end may be shaped to protrude toward the support member (42). For example, the downstream end (41P2) of the rectifier member (41) protrudes toward the support member (42). Accordingly, the lowest downstream end of the rectifier member (41) becomes the pointed protruding part of the downstream end (41P2), and the width of this part is smaller than the width of the root part of the downstream end (41P2).

[0066] The cross-sectional shape of the rectifying members (41) shown in FIGS. 3, 6, and 7 is such that the downstream end is closed. However, this is not limited thereto, and the cross-sectional shape of the rectifying member (41) may be such that the downstream end is open. The rectifying members (41) and supporting members (42) shown in FIGS. 3, 6, and 7 are hollow in shape. However, this is not limited thereto, and the rectifying member (41) and supporting member (42) may be solid in shape rather than hollow. Additionally, the cross-sectional shape of the rectifying member (41) and supporting member (42) may not be uniform in the longitudinal direction.

[0067] Next, the dimensions of the cross-sections of the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) are described based on the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the dimensions of the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) shown in FIG. 3. Referring to FIG. 8, the length from the uppermost end of the cross-section of the rectifier member (41) to the lowermost end of the cross-section of the support member (42) is denoted as A. In other words, A is the length in the airflow direction of the motor support (40). The length from the uppermost end of the cross-section of the rectifier member (41) to the lowermost end is denoted as B. In other words, B is the length in the airflow direction of the rectifier member (41). The length from the part having the maximum width in the cross-section of the rectifier member (41) to the uppermost end of the cross-section of the support member (42) is denoted as C. In other words, C is the distance between the rectifying member (41) and the supporting member (42). The maximum width of the cross-section of the rectifying member (41) is denoted as D. The maximum width of the cross-section of the supporting member (42) is denoted as E.

[0068] FIG. 9a is a graph showing the relationship between the ratio (B / A) of the length of the rectifier member (41) to the length of the motor support (40) and shaft power. FIG. 9b is a graph showing the relationship between the ratio (B / A) of the length of the rectifier member (41) to the length of the motor support (40) and blower noise. FIG. 10a is a graph showing the relationship between the ratio (C / A) of the distance between the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) to the length of the motor support (40) and shaft power. FIG. 10b is a graph showing the relationship between the ratio (C / A) of the distance between the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) to the length of the motor support (40) and blower noise. FIG. 11a is a graph showing the relationship between the ratio (E / D) of the maximum width of the cross-section of the support member (42) to the maximum width of the cross-section of the rectifier member (41) and shaft power. FIG. 11b is a graph showing the relationship between the ratio (E / D) of the maximum width of the cross-section of the support member (42) to the maximum width of the cross-section of the rectifying member (41) and the blower noise. In the graphs of FIG. 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, and 11b, the black circles represent the actual values ​​of the index on the vertical axis when the ratio on the horizontal axis takes each value. Also, the thin dashed lines represent the regression curve based on the actual values.

[0069] From Figs. 9a and 9b, 0.4

[0070] ​Next, the dimensions of the cross-section of the rectification member (41) are described based on the rectification member (41) shown in FIG. 3. As an example, the conditions regarding the shape of the cross-sections of the rectification member (41) and the support member (42) can be varied depending on the position of the cross-section, that is, the position of the plane that cuts the outdoor unit (1). First, the plane that cuts the outdoor unit (1) will be described.

[0071] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing planes that cut the outdoor unit (1). Referring to FIG. 12, planes X, Y, and Z can be assumed as planes that cut the outdoor unit (1). Plane X is located above or below the fan (10) and is a plane that does not intersect the blades of the fan (10). Plane Y is located between the rotation axis of the fan (10) and the tip of the blade and is a plane that intersects the blades of the fan (10). Plane Z is a plane that includes the rotation axis of the fan (10). Planes X, Y, and Z are all planes perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the rectifier member (41) and the support member (42) of the motor support (40).

[0072] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing the airflow within a cross-section of the outdoor unit (1) along plane (X). Referring to FIG. 13, the airflow (F31) is approximately parallel to the rotation axis of the fan (10). FIG. 14 is a drawing showing the airflow within a cross-section of the outdoor unit (1) along plane (Y). Referring to FIG. 14, a low-pressure section (P32) may be formed at a position overlapping with the rotation axis of the fan (10). Therefore, the airflow (F32) within this cross-section is directed from the outside of the rectifying member (41) toward the inside of the supporting member (42) through the gap between the rectifying member (41) and the supporting member (42). FIG. 15 is a drawing showing the airflow within a cross-section of the outdoor unit (1) along plane (Z). Referring to FIG. 15, a low-pressure section (P33) is formed near the blades of the fan (10). Therefore, the airflow (F33) within this cross section is directed from the inner side of the rectifying member (41) to the outer side of the supporting member (42) through the gap between the rectifying member (41) and the supporting member (42).

[0073] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, some airflow is drawn into the fan (10) at an angle of inclination relative to the direction of the main flow. Therefore, in FIGS. 14 and 15, the airflow is separated near the motor support (40), so the wake width can be slightly increased.

[0074] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing conditions regarding the cross-sectional shape of the rectifying member (41) and the supporting member (42) in consideration of the airflow illustrated in FIG. 13. These conditions may include the following first and second conditions. The first condition is a condition regarding a straight line (L1) extending from the rectifying member (41) to the supporting member (42). This straight line (L1) is a straight line extending from one end point (T1) of the lowest end of the cross-section of the rectifying member (41) to the cross-section of the supporting member (42) so as to be in contact with the outer edge of the supporting member (42). The first condition is that this straight line (L1) is approximately parallel to the side (42S) including one end point (T2) of the maximum width portion of the cross-section of the supporting member (42). The second condition is that the maximum width of the cross-section of the supporting member (42) (E shown in FIG. 8) is smaller than the maximum width of the cross-section of the rectifying member (41) (D shown in FIG. 8). If the first and second conditions are satisfied, an effect equivalent to that obtained using the motor support (90) shown in FIG. 4a can be obtained.

[0075] FIG. 17 is a drawing showing conditions regarding the cross-sectional shape of the rectifying member (41) and the supporting member (42) in the case considering the airflow illustrated in FIG. 14. These conditions are conditions regarding a straight line (L2) extending from the rectifying member (41) to the supporting member (42). This straight line (L2) is a straight line extending from one end point (T1) of the lowest end of the cross-section of the rectifying member (41) to the other side of the part of the supporting member (42) that faces the rectifying member (41) in the direction of airflow. Here, one side refers to either side with respect to the central axis (M), and the other side refers to the side opposite to the one side with respect to the central axis (M). In other words, these conditions can be expressed as the point of contact (T3) of this straight line (L2) being located closer to the central axis (M) than the other end point (T4) of the maximum width of the supporting member (42). With this shape, the flow resistance is reduced compared to when using the motor support (90) shown in FIG. 4a, making it difficult for vortices to occur.

[0076] The arrangement of the heat exchanger is not limited to the symmetric arrangement shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an outdoor unit (2) of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 18, the outdoor unit (2) may be equipped with a blower and a heat exchanger (52). The blower may include a fan (10), a motor (20), a motor plate (30), and a motor support (40). Since the fan (10), motor (20), motor plate (30), and motor support (40) are identical to those described for the outdoor unit (1) of the air conditioner mentioned above, a redundant description will be omitted.

[0077] The airflow indicated by the arrow (AF2) is generated by the airflow indicated by the arrow (AF1), and this airflow (AF2) passes through the heat exchanger (52). During this process, heat exchange is performed between the air and the refrigerant. Although not shown in the drawing, the outdoor unit (2) may also include other general components for circulating the refrigerant, such as a compressor.

[0078] In the outdoor unit (2), the heat exchanger (52) is installed from the upper wall to the left wall of the outdoor unit case and is generally L-shaped. That is, part of the heat exchanger (52) is positioned approximately perpendicular to the rotation axis of the fan (10), and another part of the heat exchanger (52) is positioned on one side relative to the rotation axis of the fan (10). In other words, the heat exchanger (52) is positioned asymmetrically with respect to the rotation axis of the fan (10).

[0079] Even in this type of outdoor unit (2), some of the airflow is drawn into the fan (10) with an angle of inclination relative to the direction of the main flow, and by applying it to the motor support (40) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 16, the separation of the airflow and the increase in the wake width can be reduced.

[0080] FIG. 19 is a schematic block diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. An air conditioner according to various embodiments is a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling, or heating in an air-conditioned space (hereinafter referred to as "indoor"), and means a device having at least one of these functions. The air conditioner is an air conditioner comprising an outdoor unit (1010) installed outdoors and having an outdoor heat exchanger (1002), and an indoor unit (1020) installed indoors and having an indoor heat exchanger (1004), wherein the outdoor unit (1010) includes the aforementioned outdoor unit (1 or 2). The outdoor unit (1010) and the indoor unit (1020) are connected to each other by a refrigerant pipe.

[0081] According to one embodiment, an air conditioner may include a heat pump device to perform a cooling or heating function. The heat pump device may include a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant circulates along a compressor (1001), a first heat exchanger (outdoor heat exchanger) (1002), an expansion device (1003), and a second heat exchanger (indoor heat exchanger) (1004). All components of the heat pump device may be housed in a single housing that forms the exterior of the air conditioner, such as a window air conditioner or a portable air conditioner. Alternatively, some components of the heat pump device may be housed separately in multiple housings that form a single air conditioner, such as a wall-mounted air conditioner, a stand-type air conditioner, or a system air conditioner.

[0082] An air conditioner comprising a plurality of housings may include at least one outdoor unit (1010) installed outdoors and at least one indoor unit (1020) installed indoors. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit (1010) and one indoor unit (1020) are connected via refrigerant pipes. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit (1010) is connected via refrigerant pipes to two or more indoor units (1020). For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that two or more outdoor units (1010) and two or more indoor units (1020) are connected via a plurality of refrigerant pipes.

[0083] The outdoor unit (1010) can be electrically connected to the indoor unit (1020). For example, information (or commands) for controlling the air conditioner can be entered through an input interface provided in the outdoor unit (1010) or the indoor unit (1020), and the outdoor unit (1010) and the indoor unit (1020) can operate simultaneously or sequentially in response to user input.

[0084] The air conditioner may include an outdoor heat exchanger (1002) provided in an outdoor unit (1010), an indoor heat exchanger (1004) provided in an indoor unit (1020), and a refrigerant pipe connecting the outdoor heat exchanger (1002) and the indoor heat exchanger (1004).

[0085] The outdoor heat exchanger (1002) can perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air by utilizing the phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation). For example, while the refrigerant is condensing in the outdoor heat exchanger (1002), the refrigerant releases heat to the outdoor air, and while the refrigerant flowing through the outdoor heat exchanger (1002) is evaporating, the refrigerant can absorb heat from the outdoor air.

[0086] The indoor unit (1020) is installed indoors. For example, the indoor unit (1020) can be classified into a ceiling-mounted indoor unit, a stand-type indoor unit, a wall-mounted indoor unit, etc. depending on the method of placement. For example, the ceiling-mounted indoor unit can be classified into a 4-way type indoor unit, a 1-way type indoor unit, a duct-type indoor unit, etc. depending on the method of air discharge.

[0087] Similarly, the indoor heat exchanger (1004) can perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and the indoor air by utilizing the phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation). For example, while the refrigerant evaporates in the indoor unit (1020), the refrigerant can absorb heat from the indoor air, and the indoor air can be cooled by blowing the cooled indoor air through the cooled indoor heat exchanger (1004). Additionally, while the refrigerant condenses in the indoor heat exchanger (1004), the refrigerant can release heat to the indoor air, and the indoor air can be heated by blowing the heated indoor air through the high-temperature indoor heat exchanger (1004).

[0088] That is, the air conditioner performs cooling or heating functions through a phase change process of the refrigerant circulating between the outdoor heat exchanger (1002) and the indoor heat exchanger (1004). To facilitate this circulation of the refrigerant, the air conditioner may include a compressor (1001) that compresses the refrigerant. The compressor (1001) can draw in refrigerant gas through a suction port and compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor (1001) can discharge high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas through a discharge port. The compressor (1001) may be placed inside the outdoor unit.

[0089] The refrigerant may circulate through the refrigerant pipe in the order of the compressor (1001), outdoor heat exchanger (1002), expansion device (1003), and indoor heat exchanger (1004), or in the order of the compressor (1001), indoor heat exchanger (1004), expansion device (1003), and outdoor heat exchanger (1002).

[0090] For example, when an air conditioner has one outdoor unit (1010) and one indoor unit (1020) directly connected through a refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant can be arranged to circulate between the one outdoor unit (1010) and the one indoor unit (1020) through the refrigerant pipe.

[0091] For example, in an air conditioner, if one outdoor unit (1010) is connected to two or more indoor units (1020) through a refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant may flow to the multiple indoor units (1020) through a refrigerant pipe branching from the outdoor unit (1010). The refrigerant discharged from the multiple indoor units (1020) may be combined and circulated to the outdoor unit (1010). For example, the multiple indoor units (1020) may each be directly connected in parallel to one outdoor unit (1010) through a separate refrigerant pipe.

[0092] Multiple indoor units (1020) can each operate independently according to an operating mode set by the user. That is, some of the multiple indoor units (1020) can be operated in a cooling mode and simultaneously some of the others can be operated in a heating mode. At this time, the refrigerant can be arranged to flow into each indoor unit (1020) in a selectively high-pressure or low-pressure state along a designated circulation path through a flow path switching valve to be described later, and to be discharged and circulated to the outdoor unit (1010).

[0093] For example, when two or more outdoor units (1010) and two or more indoor units (1020) are connected through multiple refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant discharged from the multiple outdoor units (1010) may be combined and flow through a single refrigerant pipe, and then branch out again at some point to flow into the multiple indoor units (1020).

[0094] A plurality of outdoor units (1010) may all be driven or at least some may not be driven depending on the operating load according to the operating amount of a plurality of indoor units (1020). At this time, the refrigerant may be arranged to flow into and circulate to the outdoor unit (1010) that is selectively driven through a flow path switching valve. The air conditioner may include an expansion device (1003) to lower the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the heat exchanger. For example, the expansion device (1003) may be placed inside the indoor unit (1020) or inside the outdoor unit (1010), or it may be placed in both.

[0095] The expansion device (1003) can lower the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant, for example, by utilizing a throttling effect. The expansion device (1003) may include an orifice that can reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path. The temperature and pressure of the refrigerant passing through the orifice can be lowered.

[0096] The expansion device (1003) can be implemented, for example, as an electronic expansion valve capable of controlling the opening ratio (the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path in a partially open state to the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path in a fully open state). The amount of refrigerant passing through the expansion device (1003) can be controlled depending on the opening ratio of the electronic expansion valve.

[0097] The air conditioner may further include a flow switching valve positioned on the refrigerant circulation path. The flow switching valve may include, for example, a 4-way valve. The flow switching valve may determine the circulation path of the refrigerant depending on the operating mode of the indoor unit (1020) (e.g., cooling operation or heating operation). The flow switching valve may be connected to the discharge of the compressor (1001).

[0098] The air conditioner may include an accumulator. The accumulator may be connected to the suction part of the compressor (1001). Low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant evaporated from an indoor heat exchanger (1004) or an outdoor heat exchanger (1002) may be introduced into the accumulator.

[0099] The accumulator can separate the refrigerant liquid from the refrigerant gas when the refrigerant mixed with the refrigerant liquid and refrigerant gas is introduced, and supply the refrigerant gas from which the refrigerant liquid has been separated to the compressor (1001).

[0100] An outdoor fan may be provided near the outdoor heat exchanger (1002). The outdoor fan may blow outdoor air into the outdoor heat exchanger (1002) to promote heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air.

[0101] The outdoor unit (1010) of the air conditioner may include at least one sensor. For example, the outdoor unit sensor may be provided as an environment sensor. The outdoor unit sensor may be placed at any location inside or outside the outdoor unit (1010). For example, the outdoor unit sensor may include, for example, a temperature sensor for detecting the air temperature around the outdoor unit (1010), a humidity sensor for detecting the air humidity around the outdoor unit (1010), a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting the refrigerant temperature of the refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit (1010), or a refrigerant pressure sensor for detecting the refrigerant pressure of the refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit (1010).

[0102] The outdoor unit (1010) of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may be configured to receive a control signal from the control unit of the indoor unit (1020) of the air conditioner, which will be described later. The outdoor unit (1010) may control the operation of the compressor (1001), outdoor heat exchanger (1002), expansion device (1003), flow path switching valve, accumulator, or outdoor fan based on the control signal received through the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit (1010) may transmit a sensing value detected by the outdoor unit sensor to the control unit of the indoor unit (1020) through the outdoor unit communication unit.

[0103] The indoor unit (1020) of the air conditioner may include a housing, a blower that circulates air inside or outside the housing, and an indoor heat exchanger (1004) that exchanges heat with the air flowing into the housing.

[0104] The housing may include an intake port. Indoor air can be drawn into the interior of the housing through the intake port.

[0105] The indoor unit (1020) of the air conditioner may include a filter provided to filter foreign substances in the air entering the housing through the intake port.

[0106] The housing may include an outlet. Air flowing inside the housing can be discharged to the outside of the housing through the outlet.

[0107] The housing of the indoor unit (1020) may be provided with an airflow guide that guides the direction of air discharged through the outlet. For example, the airflow guide may include a blade located on the outlet. For example, the airflow guide may include an auxiliary fan for controlling the discharge airflow. The airflow guide may be omitted and is not limited thereto.

[0108] Inside the housing of the indoor unit (1020), an indoor heat exchanger (1004) and a blower may be provided, which are positioned on a path connecting the intake port and the exhaust port.

[0109] The blower may include an indoor fan and a fan motor. For example, the indoor fan may include an axial fan, a mixed-flow fan, a cross-flow fan, or a centrifugal fan.

[0110] The indoor heat exchanger (1004) may be positioned between the blower and the outlet, or between the intake and the blower. The indoor heat exchanger (1004) may absorb heat from the air introduced through the intake or transfer heat to the air introduced through the intake. The indoor heat exchanger (1004) may include a heat exchange tube through which a refrigerant flows and a heat exchange fin in contact with the heat exchange tube to increase the heat transfer surface area.

[0111] The indoor unit (1020) of the air conditioner may include a drain tray positioned below the indoor heat exchanger (1004) to collect condensate generated in the indoor heat exchanger (1004). The condensate contained in the drain tray may be drained to the outside through a drain hose. The drain tray may be provided to support the indoor heat exchanger (1004).

[0112] The indoor unit (1020) of the air conditioner may include an input interface. The input interface may include any type of user input means, including buttons, switches, touch screens and / or touch pads. The user may directly input setting data (e.g., desired indoor temperature, setting of operating mode for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, setting of discharge outlet selection, and / or setting of airflow) through the input interface.

[0113] The input interface may be connected to an external input device. For example, the input interface may be electrically connected to a wired remote controller. The wired remote controller may be installed at a specific location within the indoor space (e.g., a part of a wall). The user can input setting data regarding the operation of the air conditioner by operating the wired remote controller. An electrical signal corresponding to the setting data obtained through the wired remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface. Additionally, the input interface may include an infrared sensor. The user can input setting data regarding the operation of the air conditioner remotely using a wireless remote controller. The setting data input through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

[0114] Additionally, the input interface may include a microphone. A user's voice command may be acquired through the microphone. The microphone may convert the user's voice command into an electrical signal and transmit the converted electrical signal to the indoor unit control unit (1006). The indoor unit control unit (1006) may control the components of the air conditioner to execute a function corresponding to the user's voice command. Setting data acquired through the input interface (e.g., desired indoor temperature, setting of operating mode for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, setting of discharge port selection, and / or setting of airflow) may be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit (1006) described later. In one example, the setting data acquired through the input interface may be transmitted externally, i.e., to an outdoor unit (1010) or a server, through the indoor unit communication unit described later.

[0115] The indoor unit (1020) of the air conditioner may include a power module. The power module may be connected to an external power source to supply power to the components of the indoor unit (1020).

[0116] The indoor unit (1020) of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit sensor. The indoor unit sensor may be an environment sensor placed in a space inside or outside the housing. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include one or more temperature sensors and / or humidity sensors placed in a predetermined space inside or outside the housing of the indoor unit (1020). For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting the refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor unit (1020). For example, the indoor unit sensor may include respective refrigerant temperature sensors for detecting the inlet, middle, and / or outlet temperatures of a refrigerant pipe passing through an indoor heat exchanger (1004).

[0117] For example, each environmental information detected by the indoor unit sensor may be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit (1006) described later, or transmitted to the outside through the indoor unit communication unit described later.

[0118] The indoor unit (1020) of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit communication unit. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one antenna for wirelessly communicating with another device. The outdoor unit (1010) may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may also include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0119] A short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a Near Field Communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (μWave) communication module, etc.

[0120] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0121] The indoor unit communication unit can communicate with external devices, such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances, through a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the air conditioner or user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The air conditioner or user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The indoor unit (1020) of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit control unit (1006) that controls the components of the indoor unit, including a blower, etc. The outdoor unit (1010) of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit control unit (1005) that controls the components of the outdoor unit (1010), including a compressor, etc. The indoor unit control unit (1006) can communicate with the outdoor unit control unit (1005) through the indoor unit communication unit and the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit can transmit a control signal generated by the outdoor unit control unit (1005) to the indoor unit communication unit, or transmit a control signal transmitted from the indoor unit communication unit to the outdoor unit control unit (1005). That is, the outdoor unit (1010) and the indoor unit (1020) can communicate bidirectionally. The outdoor unit (1010) and the indoor unit (1020) can transmit and receive various signals generated during the operation of the air conditioner.

[0122] The outdoor unit control unit (1005) can be electrically connected to the components of the outdoor unit (1010) and can control the operation of each component. For example, the outdoor unit control unit (1005) can adjust the frequency of the compressor (1001) and control the flow path switching valve to switch the direction of refrigerant circulation. The outdoor unit control unit (1005) can adjust the rotational speed of the outdoor fan. Additionally, the outdoor unit control unit (1005) can generate a control signal to adjust the opening of the expansion valve. Under the control of the outdoor unit control unit (1005), refrigerant can circulate along a refrigerant circulation circuit including the compressor (1001), the flow path switching valve, the outdoor heat exchanger (1002), the expansion device (1003), and the indoor heat exchanger (1004).

[0123] Various temperature sensors included in the outdoor unit (1010) and the indoor unit (1020) can each transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the detected temperature to the outdoor unit control unit (1005) and / or the indoor unit control unit (1006). For example, humidity sensors included in the outdoor unit (1010) and the indoor unit (1020) can each transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the detected humidity to the outdoor unit control unit (1005) and / or the indoor unit control unit (1006).

[0124] The indoor unit control unit (1006) can obtain user input from a user device, including a mobile device, through the indoor unit communication unit, and can obtain user input directly or through a remote controller via an input interface. The indoor unit control unit (1006) can control the components of the indoor unit, including a blower, in response to the received user input. The indoor unit control unit (1006) can transmit information regarding the received user input to the outdoor unit control unit (1005) of the outdoor unit.

[0125] The outdoor unit control unit (1005) can control the components of the outdoor unit, including the compressor (1001), based on information regarding user input received from the indoor unit (1020). For example, when the outdoor unit control unit (1005) receives a control signal from the indoor unit that corresponds to a user input selecting an operation mode such as cooling operation, heating operation, blower operation, defrosting operation, or dehumidification operation, the outdoor unit control unit (1005) can control the components of the outdoor unit (1010) so that an operation of the air conditioner corresponding to the selected operation mode is performed.

[0126] The outdoor unit control unit (1005) and the indoor unit control unit (1006) may each include a processor and a memory. The indoor unit control unit (1006) may include at least one first processor and at least one first memory, and the outdoor unit control unit (1005) may include at least one second processor and at least one second memory.

[0127] The memory can store / remember various information required for the operation of the air conditioner. The memory can store instructions, applications, data, and / or programs required for the operation of the air conditioner. For example, the memory can store various programs for the cooling operation, heating operation, dehumidification operation, and / or defrosting operation of the air conditioner. The memory may include volatile memory such as S-RAM (Static Random Access Memory) and D-RAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing data. Additionally, the memory may include non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), and EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) for long-term data storage.

[0128] The processor can generate control signals to control the operation of the air conditioner based on instructions, applications, data, and / or programs stored in memory. As hardware, the processor may include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor can process data according to programs and / or instructions provided from memory and generate control signals according to the processing results. The memory and the processor may be implemented as a single control circuit or as multiple circuits.

[0129] The indoor unit (1020) of the air conditioner may include an output interface. The output interface is electrically connected to the indoor unit control unit (1006) and can output information related to the operation of the air conditioner under the control of the indoor unit control unit (1006). For example, information such as an operating mode selected by user input, wind direction, airflow, and temperature may be output. Additionally, the output interface may output sensing information obtained from the indoor unit sensor or the outdoor unit sensor, and warning / error messages.

[0130] The output interface may include a display and a speaker. The speaker can output various sounds as an acoustic device. The display may display information entered by the user or information provided to the user as various graphic elements. For example, operation information of the air conditioner may be displayed as at least one of an image or text. Additionally, the display may include an indicator that provides specific information. The display may include an LCD panel (Liquid Crystal Display Panel), an LED panel (Light Emitting Diode Panel), an OLED panel (Organic Light Emitting Diode Panel), a micro LED panel, and / or a plurality of LEDs.

[0131] An air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include an outdoor unit comprising an outdoor heat exchanger and an indoor unit connected to the outdoor unit by a refrigerant pipe and comprising an indoor heat exchanger. The outdoor unit may include a fan, a motor that rotates the fan, and a motor support member installed within the airflow generated by the rotation of the fan to support the motor. The motor support member may include a rectifier member and a support member installed on the downstream side of the rectifier member with respect to the direction of the airflow, spaced apart from the rectifier member by a gap, and having an upstream area facing the rectifier member and a downstream area downstream of the upstream area. In a cross-section parallel to the direction of the airflow and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the rectifier member, the width of the rectifier member may be expanded from the upstream side to the downstream side in the direction of the airflow. In a cross-section parallel to the airflow direction and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the rectification member, the width of the downstream region of the support member may be constant or decrease as it moves from the upstream side to the downstream side of the airflow direction.

[0132] In one embodiment, the width of the rectification member may be curved from the upstream side to the downstream side in the direction of the airflow.

[0133] In one embodiment, the width of the rectification member may be maximum at the downstream end in the direction of the airflow.

[0134] In one embodiment, the width of the upstream region of the support member may gradually expand from the upstream side in the direction of air flow to the downstream side.

[0135] In one embodiment, the width of the upstream region of the support member may be curvedly expanded from the upstream side in the direction of air flow to the downstream side.

[0136] In one embodiment, the shape of the cross-section of the rectifying member and the supporting member may not be constant in the longitudinal direction.

[0137] In one embodiment, if A is the length from the uppermost end of the rectifying member in the airflow direction to the lowermost end of the supporting member in the airflow direction, and B is the length from the uppermost end of the rectifying member in the airflow direction to the lowermost end, then 0.4

[0138] In one embodiment, if A is the length from the uppermost end of the airflow of the rectifying member to the lowermost end of the airflow of the supporting member, and C is the length from the maximum width of the rectifying member to the uppermost end of the airflow of the supporting member, then 0.1 <C / A<0.3일 수 있다.

[0139] In one embodiment, if the maximum width of the rectifying member is D and the maximum width of the supporting member is E, then 0.84 <E / D<0.9일 수 있다.

[0140] In one embodiment, a straight point of contact extending from one end point based on the central axis of the downstream end of the airflow direction in the cross-section of the rectifying member to the other side based on the central axis of the portion facing the rectifying member in the cross-section of the supporting member may be located closer to the central axis than the other end point of the portion having the maximum width of the supporting member.

[0141] In one embodiment, the air conditioner may include a coupling member that connects the rectifying member and the supporting member with the gap between them.

[0142] In one embodiment, the coupling member may include first and second coupling members that connect the rectifying member and the supporting member at both ends of the rectifying member and the supporting member.

[0143] ​In one embodiment, the coupling member may include a third coupling member that combines the rectifying member and the support member at a position spaced apart in a first direction from the central portion of the rectifying member and the support member, and a fourth coupling member that combines the rectifying member and the support member at a position spaced apart in a second direction opposite to the first direction from the central portion of the rectifying member and the support member.

[0144] In one embodiment, the third coupling member may combine the rectifier member and the support member at the position of the end of the first direction of the motor plate supporting the motor, and the fourth coupling member may combine the rectifier member and the support member at the position of the end of the second direction of the motor plate.

[0145] In one embodiment, the third coupling member may combine the rectifier member and the support member at a position spaced apart in the first direction from the end of the motor plate supporting the motor in the first direction, and the fourth coupling member may combine the rectifier member and the support member at a position spaced apart in the second direction from the end of the motor plate in the second direction.

[0146] According to the embodiments described above, some airflow entering the motor support at an angle with respect to the direction of the main flow passes through the gap between the rectifier member and the support member. As a result, in the rectifier member and the support member, flow resistance is reduced on the side opposite to the side where the airflow enters at an angle, and airflow separation can be suppressed. In addition, the wake width is reduced, so flow resistance and vortices can be suppressed, thereby enabling the reduction of turbulent noise and improvement of blowing efficiency. Furthermore, by joining the rectifier member and the support member at a predetermined position between their ends, the ease of determining the joining position can be improved, and the rigidity of the motor support can be maintained while suppressing vibration of the motor support.

[0147] The technical effects intended to be achieved in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs from the description in this document.

[0148] As described above, although the air conditioner of the present disclosure has been explained by limited embodiments and drawings, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments and various modifications are possible within the scope without departing from the spirit thereof.

Claims

1. An air conditioner comprising an outdoor unit (1010) including an outdoor heat exchanger (1002), and an indoor unit (1020) connected to the outdoor unit by a refrigerant pipe and including an indoor heat exchanger (1004), The above outdoor unit (1010) is, Fan(10); A motor (20) that rotates the above fan; It includes a motor support member (40) installed within the airflow generated by the rotation of the fan to support the motor, and The above motor support is, Rectification member (41); A support member (42) is installed on the downstream side of the rectification member with a gap (45G) between it and the rectification member based on the air flow direction, and has an upstream area (42A) facing the rectification member and a downstream area (42B) on the downstream side of the upstream area; In a cross-section parallel to the airflow direction and perpendicular to the length direction of the rectification member, the width of the rectification member increases from the upstream side to the downstream side of the airflow direction. An air conditioner in which, in a cross section parallel to the air flow direction and perpendicular to the length direction of the rectification member, the width of the downstream region (42B) of the support member is constant or decreases as it goes from the upstream side to the downstream side of the air flow direction.

2. In Paragraph 1, An air conditioner in which the width of the above-mentioned rectification member expands curvely from the upstream side to the downstream side in the direction of the airflow.

3. In Paragraph 1 or 2, An air conditioner in which the width of the above-mentioned rectification member is maximum at the downstream end of the above-mentioned air flow direction.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 3, An air conditioner in which the width of the upstream region of the support member gradually expands from the upstream side to the downstream side in the direction of air flow.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 4, An air conditioner in which the width of the upstream region of the support member expands curvely from the upstream side to the downstream side in the direction of air flow.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 5, An air conditioner in which the cross-sectional shape of the above-mentioned rectifier member and the above-mentioned support member is not uniform in the longitudinal direction.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 6, If A is the length from the uppermost end of the rectifying member in the airflow direction to the lowermost end of the supporting member in the airflow direction, and B is the length from the uppermost end of the rectifying member in the airflow direction to the lowermost end, then 0.4 8. In any one of claims 1 to 7, If A is the length from the uppermost end of the airflow of the rectifying member to the lowermost end of the airflow of the supporting member, and C is the length from the maximum width of the rectifying member to the uppermost end of the airflow of the supporting member, then 0.1 <C / A<0.3인 공기 조화기.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 8, If the maximum width of the rectification member is D and the maximum width of the support member is E, then 0.84 <E / D<0.9인 공기 조화기.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 9, An air conditioner in which the contact point (T3) of a straight line (L2) extending from one end point (T1) with respect to the center axis (M) of the lowest end of the air flow direction in the cross-section of the rectifying member to the other side with respect to the center axis of the part facing the rectifying member in the cross-section of the supporting member is located closer to the center axis than the other end point (T4) of the part having the maximum width of the supporting member.

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 10, An air conditioner comprising: a coupling member that connects the above-mentioned rectifying member and the above-mentioned supporting member with the gap (45G) between them.

12. In Paragraph 11, An air conditioner comprising: first and second connecting members (431, 432) that connect the rectifying member and the supporting member at both ends of the rectifying member and the supporting member.

13. In Paragraph 11 or 12, The above-mentioned connecting member is, ​ A third coupling member (433) that combines the rectifying member and the supporting member at a position spaced apart in a first direction from the central portion of the rectifying member and the supporting member; An air conditioner comprising: a fourth connecting member (434) that connects the rectifying member and the supporting member at a position spaced apart from the central portion of the rectifying member and the supporting member in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

14. In Paragraph 13, The third coupling member combines the rectifier member and the support member at the position of the end of the first direction of the motor plate (30) supporting the motor, and The above-mentioned fourth coupling member is an air conditioner that combines the rectifier member and the support member at the position of the second direction end of the motor plate (30).

15. In Paragraph 13, The third coupling member combines the rectifier member and the support member at a position spaced apart in the first direction from the end of the motor plate (30) that supports the motor in the first direction. The above-mentioned fourth coupling member is an air conditioner that combines the rectifier member and the support member at a position spaced apart in the second direction from the second direction end of the motor plate (30).

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