Sensor holder and air conditioner including sensor holder

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a sensor holder. The sensor holder that brings a temperature sensor into contact with a pipe includes a pipe receiving part including a first insertion hole and a sensor receiving part including a second insertion hole. The pipe receiving unit and the sensor receiving unit are connected so that the pipe coupled to the pipe receiving unit and the temperature sensor inserted into the sensor receiving unit are in contact with each other through the first insertion hole and the second insertion hole.

Description

Sensor holder, air conditioner including sensor holder

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner, and more specifically, to an air conditioner including a sensor holder.

[0002] An air conditioner is a device that regulates indoor temperature by using a refrigeration cycle to cool or heat air and discharging the cooled or heated air.

[0003] Generally, an air conditioner may include an outdoor unit formed to exchange heat with outside air and an indoor unit formed to exchange heat with indoor air.

[0004] The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include a sensor holder for fixing a sensor for detecting pipe temperature.

[0005] Conventional sensor holders were fixed to the piping via welding, which caused stress concentration around the weld area and resulted in leakage in the piping connected to the compressor.

[0006] Embodiments of the present disclosure may solve at least one of the previously described problems and / or disadvantages and provide the advantages described below. Accordingly, various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a sensor holder and an air conditioner including the sensor holder.

[0007] Additional embodiments will be presented in the detailed description below, some of which are obvious from the detailed description, and other embodiments can also be presented through learning from the presented embodiments.

[0008] A sensor holder for contacting a temperature sensor to a pipe according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a pipe receiving portion including a first insertion port to which the pipe can be coupled in a lateral direction, and a sensor receiving portion formed on one side of the pipe receiving portion and including a second insertion port into which the temperature sensor can be inserted. The pipe receiving portion and the sensor receiving portion are connected such that the pipe coupled to the pipe receiving portion and the temperature sensor inserted into the sensor receiving portion come into mutual contact through the first insertion port and the second insertion port.

[0009] An air conditioner according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an outdoor unit, a compressor disposed inside the outdoor unit, piping connected to the compressor, a temperature sensor, and a sensor holder coupled to the piping to maintain the temperature sensor in contact with the piping. The sensor holder comprises a pipe receiving portion including a first insertion port to which the piping can be coupled in a lateral direction, and a sensor receiving portion formed on one side of the pipe receiving portion and including a second insertion port into which the temperature sensor can be inserted. The pipe receiving portion and the sensor receiving portion are connected such that the piping coupled to the pipe receiving portion and the temperature sensor inserted into the sensor receiving portion come into mutual contact through the first insertion port and the second insertion port.

[0010]

[0011] The above description of embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as other aspects, features, and benefits, will become more apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings:

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

[0013] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a sensor holder according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 4 is a side view of a sensor holder according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the state in which a pipe is coupled to a sensor holder according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the state in which a pipe is coupled to a sensor holder according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining the state in which a temperature sensor is coupled to a sensor holder according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a sensor holder combined with a pipe and a temperature sensor according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining a sensor holder combined with a pipe and a temperature sensor according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] 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.

[0022] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0023] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0024] 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.

[0025] The term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0026] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another corresponding component and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] In the embodiment, the 'module' or multiple 'parts' may be integrated into at least one module and implemented by at least one processor, except for the 'module' or 'part' that needs to be implemented in specific hardware.

[0032] Operations performed by a module, program, or other component according to various embodiments may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or at least some operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or other operations may be added.

[0033] Meanwhile, various elements and areas in the drawings are depicted schematically. Accordingly, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited by the relative sizes or spacing depicted in the attached drawings.

[0034] Hereinafter, air conditioners and sensor holders according to various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a refrigerant circuit of an air conditioner according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Referring to FIG. 1, the air conditioner may include an indoor unit (1) and an outdoor unit (2).

[0037] The indoor unit (1) can be located in a room where air conditioning is to be performed. For example, the indoor unit (1) can be installed in a home or an office.

[0038] The outdoor unit (2) can be installed outdoors where air conditioning is not performed.

[0039] The air conditioner includes a refrigerant circuit that circulates a refrigerant between an indoor unit (1) and an outdoor unit (2). The refrigerant circulates between the indoor unit and the outdoor unit along the refrigerant circuit and can absorb or release heat during a change of state (e.g., a change of state from gas to liquid, a change of state from liquid to gas).

[0040] To induce a change in the state of the refrigerant, the refrigerant circuit may include a compressor (10), an outdoor heat exchanger (11), an expansion valve (3), and an indoor heat exchanger (4).

[0041] The compressor (10) compresses the refrigerant in a gaseous state to produce a high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. The high-temperature / high-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor (10) flows into an outdoor heat exchanger (11).

[0042] In the outdoor heat exchanger (11), the high-temperature / high-pressure gaseous refrigerant becomes liquid refrigerant by the outside air and releases heat. The liquid refrigerant discharged from the outdoor heat exchanger (11) flows into the expansion valve (3).

[0043] The outdoor unit (2) may include an outdoor fan (13) for drawing in outside air and passing it through an outdoor heat exchanger (11). The outdoor fan (13) may be configured to rotate by an outdoor fan motor (14).

[0044] Additionally, the outdoor unit (2) may include a sensor (reference numeral 3000 in FIG. 7) and a sensor holder (reference numeral 1000 in FIG. 3) for detecting the temperature of the piping connected to the compressor (10). The air conditioner can measure the temperature of the piping of the outdoor unit (2) based on the sensing value of the sensor (reference numeral 3000 in FIG. 7) included in the sensor holder (reference numeral 1000 in FIG. 3).

[0045] The expansion valve (3) lowers the pressure and temperature of the liquid refrigerant to produce a low-temperature and low-pressure liquid refrigerant. The low-temperature / low-pressure liquid refrigerant discharged from the expansion valve (3) flows into the indoor heat exchanger (4).

[0046] In the indoor heat exchanger (4), the low-temperature / low-pressure liquid refrigerant absorbs heat from the surrounding hot air and evaporates into a gaseous state. The gaseous refrigerant discharged from the indoor heat exchanger (4) flows into the compressor (10) and circulates through the refrigerant circuit again.

[0047] The indoor unit (1) may include an indoor fan (5) for drawing in indoor air and passing it through an indoor heat exchanger (4). The indoor fan (5) may be configured to rotate by an indoor fan motor (6).

[0048] The refrigerant can release heat in the outdoor heat exchanger (11) and absorb heat in the indoor heat exchanger (4). The indoor heat exchanger (4) is installed in the indoor unit (1) together with the expansion valve (3), and the outdoor heat exchanger (11) can be installed in the outdoor unit (2) together with the compressor (10). Thus, the indoor heat exchanger (4) can cool the indoor air.

[0049] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an outdoor unit (100) of an air conditioner according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. For reference, FIG. 2 shows the state in which the front cover of the cabinet (20) is removed so that the interior of the cabinet (20) can be seen.

[0050] In FIG. 2, for convenience of explanation, the outdoor heat exchanger (11) is referred to as the heat exchanger, and the outdoor fan (13) and outdoor fan motor (14) are referred to as the fan and fan motor, respectively.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 2, the outdoor unit (100) of the air conditioner may include a cabinet (20), a heat exchanger (11), a compressor (10), a fan (13), and an internal cabinet (30).

[0052] The cabinet (20) forms the outer shape of the outdoor unit (2) and is formed in a roughly hollow rectangular shape. Inside the cabinet (20), a heat exchanger (11), a compressor (10), a fan (13), and an internal cabinet (30) may be provided.

[0053] An air inlet (21) through which external air is introduced may be provided on the rear (20a), left side (20b), and right side (20c) of the cabinet (20). The air inlet (21) may be formed with a plurality of openings.

[0054] A front opening (22) in which a front cover is installed may be provided on the front of the cabinet (20). The front cover may be detachably installed in the front opening (22) of the cabinet (20). The front cover may include a plurality of openings through which air is introduced.

[0055] An air outlet (23) through which air introduced into the interior of the cabinet (20) is discharged may be provided on the upper surface (20d) of the cabinet (20).

[0056] The heat exchanger (11) can be installed inside the cabinet (20) adjacent to the left side (20b), rear side (20a), and right side (20c) of the cabinet (20). Thus, air introduced through the air inlet (21) can pass through the heat exchanger (11) and move to the center of the cabinet (20).

[0057] The heat exchanger (11) can be formed so that the refrigerant flowing inside the heat exchanger (11) exchanges heat with the outside air passing through the heat exchanger (11).

[0058] The compressor (10) is installed inside the cabinet (20). For example, the compressor (10) may be installed on the lower surface of the cabinet (20). The compressor (10) may be connected to a heat exchanger (11).

[0059] The compressor (10) is configured to compress the refrigerant in a gaseous state to produce a high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. The high-temperature / high-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor (10) flows into the heat exchanger (11).

[0060] A fan (13) is installed on the upper part of the cabinet (20). The fan (13) may be installed adjacent to an air outlet (23) provided on the upper surface (20d) of the cabinet (20). The fan (13) is configured to rotate by a fan motor (14).

[0061] When the fan (13) rotates, airflow is generated. That is, when the fan (13) rotates, external air is drawn into the air inlets (21) provided on the front, rear (20a), left side (20b), and right side (20c) of the cabinet (20), passes through the fan (13), and is then discharged to the outside of the cabinet (20) through the air outlet (23) provided on the top surface (20d) of the cabinet (20).

[0062] Since the fan (13) is installed at the top of the cabinet (20), when the fan (13) rotates, an upward airflow is generated inside the cabinet (20).

[0063] The inner cabinet (30) is provided inside the cabinet (20). The inner cabinet (30) may be installed on the upper side of the cabinet (20). The inner cabinet (30) may be formed separately from the cabinet (20). The compressor (10) is not installed inside the inner cabinet (30).

[0064] The interior of the inner cabinet (30) may accommodate electrical components for supplying power to the compressor (10) and the fan motor (14), and a printed circuit board for controlling the compressor (10) and the fan motor (14). The inner cabinet (30) is formed to protect the electrical components and the printed circuit board from rain and snow.

[0065] The piping (2000) is a component for safely moving refrigerant, etc. from a specific point to another point. The piping (2000) connects each component, such as the compressor (10) and the internal heat exchanger (4), and the compressor (10) and the external heat exchanger (11), and is configured to allow refrigerant, etc. to move between each component.

[0066] The compressor (10) is configured to compress a gaseous refrigerant to produce a high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. The high-temperature / high-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor (10) flows into a heat exchanger (11) through a pipe (2000).

[0067] At this time, the temperature of the high-temperature / high-pressure gaseous refrigerant is conducted to the pipe, and the temperature of the pipe (2000) may increase.

[0068] Figure 3 describes a sensor holder (1000) for fixing a temperature sensor (3000) for measuring the temperature of such pipes (2000).

[0069] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a sensor holder (1000) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] In FIG. 3, the sensor holder (1000) may include a pipe receiving portion (1100) and a sensor receiving portion (1200).

[0071] The pipe receiving portion (1100) is configured to accommodate the pipe (2000). The pipe receiving portion (1100) may be formed with a shape identical to the shape of the outer surface of the pipe (2000). The pipe receiving portion (1100) is a cylindrical structure in which a portion of the outer surface forms a first insertion opening (1110).

[0072] The sensor receiving portion (1200) is configured to accommodate a temperature sensor (3000). The shape of the sensor receiving portion (1200) may be formed to be identical to the shape of the outer surface of the temperature sensor (3000). The sensor receiving portion (1200) is a cylindrical structure in which a portion of the outer surface forms a second insertion opening (1210).

[0073] The pipe receiving portion (1100) and the sensor receiving portion (1200) can be formed in a shape having elastic force in a direction facing each other. Accordingly, when the pipe (2000) and the temperature sensor (3000) are connected to the pipe receiving portion (1100) and the sensor receiving portion (1200), respectively, the pipe (2000) and the temperature sensor (3000) can be fixed in a state of contact with each other within the pipe receiving portion (1100) and the sensor receiving portion (1200).

[0074] The sensor holder (1000) can be formed such that the first edge (1300) of the first insertion opening (1110) of the pipe receiving portion (1100) and the first edge (1300) of the second insertion opening (1210) of the sensor receiving portion (1200) are connected to each other in a bent state according to a preset angle range. Accordingly, the pipe (2000) and the temperature sensor (3000) can support each other while in contact with each other.

[0075] Each of the first insertion port (1110) and the second insertion port (1210) can be formed adjacent to each other in a direction parallel to the length direction of the pipe (2000).

[0076] The pipe receiving portion (1100) may include a first insertion opening (1110), at least one bead (1111), a first protrusion (1120), and a fixing groove (1130).

[0077] The first insertion opening (1110) is a space where the pipe (2000) can be connected in a lateral direction. Additionally, the first insertion opening (1110) is a space open on one side of the pipe receiving portion (2000). The pipe (2000) can be connected to the pipe receiving portion (2000) through the first insertion opening (1110).

[0078] At least one bead (1111) may be formed along the circumferential direction of the pipe receiving portion (1100). At least one bead (1111) may be formed in a shape protruding along the circumferential direction of the pipe receiving portion (1100) in the opposite direction of the first insertion opening (1110) relative to the pipe receiving portion (1100).

[0079] At least one bead (1111) can improve the fixing strength to maintain the shape of the pipe receiving portion (1100). At least one bead (1111) can improve the elastic strength of the pipe receiving portion (1100). Accordingly, the pipe receiving portion (1100) can maintain its shape even if it is repeatedly attached to and detached from the pipe (2000).

[0080] The first protrusion (1120) may be formed along the second edge opposite the first edge (1300) at the first insertion opening (1110). The first protrusion (1120) is a configuration that can assist in widening the width of the first insertion opening (1110) of the pipe receiving portion (1100) to detach the pipe (2000).

[0081] The first protrusion (1120) may be formed in a shape that protrudes in the direction opposite to the first insertion opening (1110) side relative to the second edge.

[0082] A fixing groove (1130) may be formed on one side between the first protrusions (1120). The fixing groove (1130) may support a cable tie for fixing the sensor holder (1000) to the pipe (2000). The fixing groove (1130) may fix a cable tie that surrounds the outer surface of the sensor holder (1000). Specifically, a step (1131, 1132) may be formed between the first protrusion (1120) and the fixing groove (1130). The cable tie that surrounds the outer surface of the sensor holder (1000) is placed on the fixing groove (1130) so that it cannot be displaced into a space other than the fixing groove (1130) by the step (1131, 1132) formed between the first protrusion (1120) and the fixing groove (1130). Accordingly, the cable tie can be fixed in the fixing groove (1130).

[0083] The sensor receiving portion (1200) may include a second insertion opening (1210), a plurality of support portions (1230, 1240), and a second protrusion (1220).

[0084] The second insertion opening (1210) is a space where the pipe (2000) can be connected in a lateral direction. Additionally, the second insertion opening (1210) is a space open on one side of the sensor receiving portion (1200). The pipe (2000) can be connected to the pipe receiving portion (2000) through the second insertion opening (1210).

[0085] A plurality of support members (1230, 1240) may be disposed at both ends of the sensor receiving portion (1200). The plurality of support members (1230, 1240) may come into contact with both ends of the temperature sensor (3000) coupled to the sensor receiving portion (1200). The plurality of support members (1230, 1240) may support both ends of the temperature sensor (3000) and fix the temperature sensor (3000) while the temperature sensor (3000) is coupled through the second insertion port (1210). Since the temperature sensor (3000) coupled to the sensor receiving portion (1200) is fixed to the plurality of support members (1230, 1240), the temperature sensor (3000) may not move even if vibrations of the pipe (2000) are transmitted to the temperature sensor (3000).

[0086] The width of the second insertion opening (1210) on the side of the first support member (1240) among the plurality of support members (1230, 1240) may be wider than the width of the second support member (1230) on the side opposite to the first support member (1240) among the plurality of support members (1230, 1240).

[0087] Since the width of the first support member (1240) is wide, the user can easily attach and detach the temperature sensor (3000) to the sensor receiving member (1200).

[0088] An opening (1250) may be formed on the side of the first support portion (1240). The opening (1250) may be formed on the second edge opposite to the first edge of the sensor receiving portion (1200). The opening (1250) may be formed at the second edge of the sensor receiving portion (1200) with a step difference from the second protrusion (1220). The opening (1250) may include an inclined surface (1251) between the second protrusions (1220). Accordingly, the user can easily attach and detach the temperature sensor (3000) from the sensor receiving portion (1200).

[0089] The second protrusion (1220) may be formed along the second edge at the second edge opposite to the first edge (1300) at the second insertion opening (1210). The second protrusion (1220) is a configuration that can assist in widening the width of the second insertion opening (1210) of the sensor receiving portion (1200) so that the user can attach and detach the temperature sensor (3000). Accordingly, the user can easily attach and detach the temperature sensor (3000) from the sensor receiving portion (1200) through the second protrusion (1220).

[0090] The second protrusion (1220) may be formed in a shape that protrudes in the direction opposite to the second insertion opening (1210) side relative to the second edge.

[0091] Although not illustrated in FIG. 3, the sensor receiving portion (1200) may include at least one bead formed along the circumferential direction of the pipe receiving portion (1100), similar to the pipe receiving portion (1100). The at least one bead of the sensor receiving portion (1200) can improve the fixing strength for maintaining the shape of the sensor receiving portion (1200). The at least one bead of the sensor receiving portion (1200) can improve the elastic strength of the sensor receiving portion (1200). Accordingly, the sensor receiving portion (1200) can maintain its shape even if the temperature sensor (3000) is repeatedly attached and detached.

[0092] FIG. 4 is a side view of a sensor holder (1000) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0093] In FIG. 4, the sensor holder (1000) may include a pipe receiving portion (1100) and a sensor receiving portion (1200).

[0094] In FIG. 4, the first insertion port (1110) of the pipe receiving portion (1100) and the second insertion port (1210) of the sensor receiving portion (1200) may be formed adjacent to each other in a position facing each other. Accordingly, the pipe (2000) and the temperature sensor (3000) may each be connected to the pipe receiving portion (1100) and the sensor receiving portion (1200) respectively in the same lateral direction.

[0095] Additionally, the first insertion port (1110) of the pipe receiving portion (1100) and the second insertion port (1210) of the sensor receiving portion (1200) may have a portion of space open to each other. The first insertion port (1110) of the pipe receiving portion (1100) and the second insertion port (1210) of the sensor receiving portion (1200) may be shared with each other. Accordingly, the pipe (2000) and the temperature sensor (3000) may each come into contact with each other in the space of the first insertion port (1110) and the second insertion port (1210) of the sensor receiving portion (1200).

[0096] The shape of the pipe receiving portion (1100) may differ before and after the pipe (2000) is connected. For example, before the pipe (2000) is connected to the pipe receiving portion (1100), the shape of the pipe receiving portion (1100) may have an elliptical shape with a narrower distance between each edge side compared to the shape of the pipe (2000). In contrast, after the pipe (2000) is connected to the pipe receiving portion (1100), the shape of the pipe receiving portion (1100) may be the same as the shape of the outer surface of the pipe (2000). Accordingly, when the pipe (2000) is connected to the pipe receiving portion (1100), the pipe receiving portion (1100) can secure the pipe (2000).

[0097] The shape of the sensor receiving portion (1200) may differ before and after the temperature sensor (3000) is coupled. For example, before the temperature sensor (3000) is coupled to the sensor receiving portion (1200), the shape of the sensor receiving portion (1200) may have an elliptical shape with a narrower distance between each edge side compared to the shape of the temperature sensor (3000). In contrast, after the temperature sensor (3000) is coupled to the sensor receiving portion (1200), the shape of the sensor receiving portion (1200) may be identical to the shape of the outer surface of the temperature sensor (3000). Accordingly, when the temperature sensor (3000) is coupled to the sensor receiving portion (1200), the sensor receiving portion (1200) can fix the temperature sensor (3000).

[0098] A plurality of support members (1220, 1230) may be disposed at both ends of the sensor receiving member (1200). At least one groove may be formed between the members of the plurality of support members (1220, 1230).

[0099] The first protrusion (1120) may be formed in a shape that protrudes in the direction opposite to the first insertion opening (1110) based on the second edge of the pipe receiving portion (1100). Additionally, the first protrusion (1120) may be formed along the length direction of the pipe receiving portion (1100). When a user pushes the first protrusion (1120) in one direction, the first protrusion (1120) can expand the space of the first insertion opening (1110) of the pipe receiving portion (1100).

[0100] The second protrusion (1220) may be formed in a shape that protrudes in the direction opposite to the second insertion opening (1210) based on the second edge of the sensor receiving portion (1200). Additionally, the second protrusion (1220) may be formed along the length direction of the sensor receiving portion (1200). When a user pushes the second protrusion (1220) in one direction, the second protrusion (1220) can expand the space of the second insertion opening (1210) of the sensor receiving portion (1200).

[0101] The first edge of the first insertion port (1110) of the pipe receiving portion (1100) and the first edge of the second insertion port (1210) of the sensor receiving portion (1200) can be connected to each other in a bent state by a preset angle range (θ).

[0102] Here, the preset angle range (θ) may vary depending on the respective shapes of the pipe (2000) and the temperature sensor (3000). For example, if the size of the pipe (2000) is large and the size of the temperature sensor (3000) is small, the preset angle range (θ) may increase. Conversely, if the sizes of both the pipe (2000) and the temperature sensor (3000) are large, the preset angle range (θ) may decrease.

[0103] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the state in which a pipe (2000) is coupled to a sensor holder (1000) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0104] In FIG. 5, the pipe (2000) can be connected to the pipe receiving portion (1100) through the space between the first insertion port (1110) and the second insertion port (1210).

[0105] The pipe (2000) may be formed with a circular cross-section. The pipe receiving portion (1100) may be an elliptical shape with a narrower distance between each edge than a circle. However, when the pipe (2000) is joined, the pipe receiving portion (1100) may be formed with a circular shape.

[0106] In contrast, the shape of the pipe receiving portion (1100) can be formed in a circular shape, and the pipe (2000) can be connected to the shape of the pipe receiving portion (1100).

[0107] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the state in which a pipe (2000) is coupled to a sensor holder (1000) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0108] In FIG. 6, a portion of the outer surface of the pipe (2000) may be seated in the pipe receiving portion (1100). The remainder of the outer surface of the pipe (2000) that is not seated in the pipe receiving portion (1100) may be opened toward the second insertion opening (1210).

[0109] In FIG. 6, the pipe receiving portion (1100) can maintain its shape using at least one bead (1111) even when the pipe (2000) is received.

[0110] The pipe (2000) may have a space between the first edge (1300) of the pipe receiving portion (1100) and the second edge opposite to the first edge (1300).

[0111] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining the state in which a temperature sensor (3000) is coupled to a sensor holder (1000) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0112] In FIG. 7, the temperature sensor (3000) can be coupled to the sensor receiving portion (1200) through the space between the second insertion portion (1210).

[0113] The temperature sensor (3000) can be pushed in contact with the pipe (2000) and inserted into the sensor receiving portion (1200) through the second insertion port (1210). Accordingly, the temperature sensor (3000) coupled to the sensor receiving portion (1200) can be maintained in contact with the pipe (2000).

[0114] The temperature sensor (3000) may have a circular cross-section. The sensor receiving portion (1200) may have an elliptical shape with a narrower distance between each edge than a circle. However, when the temperature sensor (3000) is combined, the sensor receiving portion (1200) may be formed in a circular shape.

[0115] In contrast, the shape of the sensor receiving portion (1200) can be formed in a circular shape, and the temperature sensor (3000) can be coupled to the shape of the sensor receiving portion (1200).

[0116] In FIGS. 5 to 7, the sequence described is that the pipe (2000) is first connected to the sensor holder (1000) and then the temperature sensor (3000) is connected; however, this is not necessarily limited to this, and the temperature sensor (3000) may be connected to the sensor holder (1000) first and then the pipe (2000) is connected. In this case, the pipe (2000) can be pushed while in contact with the temperature sensor (3000) and inserted into the pipe receiving portion (1100) through the first insertion port (1110). Accordingly, the pipe (2000) connected to the pipe receiving portion (1100) can be maintained in a state of contact with the temperature sensor (3000).

[0117] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a sensor holder (1000) combined with a pipe (2000) and a temperature sensor (3000) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0118] In FIG. 8, the pipe (2000) and the temperature sensor (3000) are each connected to the pipe receiving portion (1100) and the sensor receiving portion (1200). Additionally, the pipe (2000) and the temperature sensor (3000) are fixed in contact with each other.

[0119] Accordingly, the air conditioner can measure the temperature of the pipe (2000) based on the sensing value of the temperature sensor (3000). In addition, the air conditioner can measure the temperature of the refrigerant flowing in the pipe (2000) based on the sensing value of the temperature sensor (3000).

[0120] Despite vibrations of the piping (2000) caused by the operation of the air conditioner, the multiple support members (1220, 1230) can prevent the temperature sensor (3000) from detaching from the sensor receiving member (1200).

[0121] In FIG. 8, the first protrusion (1120) and the second protrusion (1220) may protrude in a direction facing each other from one side. The user can detach the pipe (2000) or the temperature sensor (3000) by pulling the first protrusion (1120) and the second protrusion (1220) in a direction away from each other.

[0122] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining a sensor holder (1000) combined with a pipe (2000) and a temperature sensor (3000) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0123] In FIG. 9, the pipe receiving portion (1100) and the sensor receiving portion (1200) can be connected such that the pipe (2000) coupled to the pipe receiving portion (1100) and the temperature sensor (3000) inserted into the sensor receiving portion (1200) come into mutual contact through the first insertion port (1110) and the second insertion port (1210). Here, the first insertion port (1110) and the second insertion port (1210) can each be formed adjacent to each other in a position facing each other in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the pipe (2000).

[0124] The sensor receiving portion (1200) may include a plurality of support portions (1220, 1230) disposed at both ends of the sensor receiving portion (1200) to support both ends of the temperature sensor (3000) and fix the temperature sensor (3000) while the temperature sensor (3000) is coupled through the second insertion port (1210). Here, the plurality of support portions (1220, 1230) may come into contact with both ends (3100, 3200) of the temperature sensor (3000).

[0125] In FIG. 9, the sensor holder (1000) can be coupled to a straight cylindrical pipe (2000). The pipe (2000) may have a cylindrical shape with a central portion passing through it. High-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant compressed by the compressor (10) may flow through the central portion of the pipe (2000).

[0126] An opening (1250) may be formed on a second edge opposite to the first edge of the sensor receiving portion (1200). The opening (1250) may be formed at the second edge of the sensor receiving portion (1200) with a step difference from the second protrusion (1220). The opening (1250) may include an inclined surface (1251) between the second protrusions (1220). Accordingly, the user can easily attach and detach the temperature sensor (3000) from the sensor receiving portion (1200).

[0127] The length (L) of the opening (1250) may be at least 0.3 times the length along the longitudinal direction of the sensor receiving portion (1200). The length (L) of the opening (1250) may be at most 0.7 times the length along the longitudinal direction of the sensor receiving portion (1200). That is, the length (L) of the opening (1250) may be 0.3 to 0.7 times the length along the longitudinal direction of the sensor receiving portion (1200).

[0128] In FIG. 9, a cable tie (not shown) that surrounds the sensor holder (1000) and is placed in the fixing groove (1130) can come into contact with the pipe (2000), the temperature sensor (3000), the pipe receiving portion (1100), and the sensor receiving portion (1200). The cable tie (not shown) that surrounds the sensor holder (1000) and is placed in the fixing groove (1130) can secure the pipe (2000), the temperature sensor (3000), the pipe receiving portion (1100), and the sensor receiving portion (1200).

[0129] In FIG. 9, a single sensor holder (1000) with a temperature sensor (3000) attached is arranged, but is not necessarily limited thereto, and multiple sensor holders (1000) may be arranged at different locations in the piping (2000) inside the outdoor unit (100).

[0130] Each of the components described in this document may consist of one or more components, and the names of such components may vary depending on the type of sensor holder and temperature sensor.

[0131] Although various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described individually above, each embodiment is not required to be implemented alone, and the configuration and operation of each embodiment may be implemented in combination with at least one other embodiment.

[0132] Although preferred embodiments have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. It is understood that various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the essence of the present disclosure as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical spirit or perspective of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A sensor holder that contacts a temperature sensor to a pipe, A pipe receiving portion including a first insertion port capable of connecting the above pipe in a lateral direction; and A sensor receiving portion formed on one side of the pipe receiving portion and including a second insertion hole into which the temperature sensor can be inserted; The above pipe receiving portion and the above sensor receiving portion are, A sensor holder in which the pipe coupled to the pipe receiving portion and the temperature sensor inserted into the sensor receiving portion are connected so as to come into mutual contact through the first insertion port and the second insertion port.

2. In Paragraph 1, Each of the first insertion port and the second insertion port is, Sensor holders formed adjacent to each other in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the above-mentioned pipe.

3. In Paragraph 1, The sensor receiving portion above is, A sensor holder comprising: a plurality of support members disposed at both ends of the sensor receiving portion to support both ends of the temperature sensor and fix the temperature sensor while the temperature sensor is coupled through the second insertion port.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above second insertion opening is, A sensor holder in which the width of the first support member side among the plurality of support members is wider than the width of the second support member side opposite the first support member among the plurality of support members.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned pipe receiving portion is, A sensor holder comprising at least one bead formed along the circumferential direction of the above-mentioned pipe receiving portion.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned pipe receiving portion is, A sensor holder comprising a fixing groove for supporting a cable tie for fixing the sensor holder to the pipe.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned pipe receiving portion is, A cylindrical structure in which a region of the outer surface forms the first insertion opening, and The sensor receiving portion above is, A cylindrical structure in which a region of the outer surface forms the second insertion opening, and A sensor holder in which the first edge of the first insertion port of the pipe receiving portion and the first edge of the second insertion port of the sensor receiving portion are connected to each other in a bent state by a preset angle range.

8. In Paragraph 7, The above-mentioned pipe receiving portion is, It includes a first protrusion formed along the second edge at the second edge opposite to the first edge at the first insertion opening, and The sensor receiving portion above is, A sensor holder comprising a second protrusion formed along the second edge at the second edge opposite to the first edge at the second insertion opening.

9. In air conditioners, Outdoor unit; A compressor placed inside the above outdoor unit; Piping connected to the above compressor; Temperature sensor; and A sensor holder coupled to the pipe and maintaining the temperature sensor in contact with the pipe; comprising The sensor holder above is, A pipe receiving portion including a first insertion opening that allows the pipe to be connected in a lateral direction; and A sensor receiving portion formed on one side of the pipe receiving portion and including a second insertion hole into which the temperature sensor can be inserted; The above pipe receiving portion and the above sensor receiving portion are, An air conditioner in which the pipe coupled to the pipe receiving portion and the temperature sensor inserted into the sensor receiving portion are connected to each other through the first insertion port and the second insertion port.

10. In Paragraph 9, Each of the first insertion port and the second insertion port is, An air conditioner formed adjacent to each other in a direction parallel to the length direction of the above piping.

11. In Paragraph 9, The sensor receiving portion above is, An air conditioner comprising: a plurality of support members disposed at both ends of the sensor receiving portion to support both ends of the temperature sensor and fix the temperature sensor while the temperature sensor is coupled through the second insertion port.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above second insertion opening is, An air conditioner in which the width of the first support member side among the plurality of support members is wider than the width of the second support member side opposite the first support member among the plurality of support members.

13. In Paragraph 9, The above-mentioned pipe receiving portion is, An air conditioner comprising at least one bead formed along the circumferential direction of the above-mentioned pipe receiving portion.

14. In Paragraph 9, The above-mentioned pipe receiving portion is, An air conditioner comprising a fixing groove for supporting a cable tie for fixing the sensor holder to the pipe.

15. In Paragraph 9, The above-mentioned pipe receiving portion is, A cylindrical structure in which a region of the outer surface forms the first insertion opening, and The sensor receiving portion above is, A cylindrical structure in which a region of the outer surface forms the second insertion opening, and An air conditioner in which the first edge of the first insertion port of the pipe receiving portion and the first edge of the second insertion port of the sensor receiving portion are connected to each other in a bent state by a preset angle range.

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