Air conditioner outdoor unit

Abstract

Disclosed in the present application is an air conditioner outdoor unit (1). A housing (10) comprises a front panel (100) and a service panel (200), wherein the front panel (100) is provided with an air outlet (110), and a first seam (41) is provided between the front panel (100) and the service panel (200); a heat exchanger (50) and a fan (30) are disposed in the housing (10); a grille (20) covers the front panel (100) and the service panel (200) so as to cover the first seam (41); and ventilation gaps (26) for air circulation are provided on the grille (20), and the ventilation gaps (26) are in communication with the air outlet (110). The grille (20) covers the first seam between the front panel (100) and the service panel (200), thereby reducing the risk of water ingress into the air conditioner outdoor unit (1).

Description

air conditioner outdoor unit

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202520173438.3, filed on January 24, 2025; Chinese patent application No. 202520173882.5, filed on January 24, 2025; Chinese patent application No. 202520173893.3, filed on January 24, 2025; and Chinese patent application No. 202520173918.X, filed on January 24, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to air conditioning technology, and in particular to an outdoor unit for an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0003] Typically, the front of an air conditioner outdoor unit has a front panel and a service panel. However, the seam between the front panel and the service panel can easily lead to water leakage from the outdoor unit. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application proposes an outdoor air conditioning unit that uses a grille to cover the seam between the front panel and the maintenance panel, thereby reducing the risk of water leakage.

[0005] According to one aspect of this application, an outdoor unit for an air conditioner is provided, comprising:

[0006] The casing includes a front panel and a maintenance panel, wherein an air vent is provided on the front panel, and a first seam is provided between the front panel and the maintenance panel;

[0007] A heat exchanger is disposed within the housing and is configured to exchange heat with the flowing air.

[0008] A fan is disposed within the housing and is configured to provide power for air circulation.

[0009] A grille, covering the front panel and the maintenance panel to cover the first seam, is provided with ventilation gaps for gas flow, the ventilation gaps communicating with the air outlet.

[0010] Beneficial effects: Since the grille covers the entire front panel of the outdoor unit of the air conditioner, that is, the grille can cover the first seam between the front panel and the service panel, thus reducing the risk of water leakage from the indoor unit of the air conditioner.

[0011] According to another aspect of this application, an outdoor unit for an air conditioner is provided, comprising:

[0012] The casing includes a front panel and a maintenance panel, wherein an air vent is provided on the front panel, and a first seam is provided between the front panel and the maintenance panel;

[0013] A heat exchanger is disposed within the housing and is configured to exchange heat with the flowing air.

[0014] A fan is disposed within the housing and is configured to provide power for air circulation.

[0015] A grille is configured to cover the front panel and the first seam, and the grille has ventilation gaps for gas flow, the ventilation gaps communicating with the air outlet.

[0016] Beneficial effect: Since the grille covers the first seam, the risk of water leakage from the indoor unit of the air conditioner can be greatly reduced after the first seam is covered.

[0017] Additional aspects and features of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The above and / or additional aspects and features of this application will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0019] Figure 1A is a structural diagram of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to some embodiments of this application;

[0020] Figure 1B is an enlarged view of part A in Figure 1A;

[0021] Figure 2 is another structural diagram of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to some embodiments of this application;

[0022] Figure 3 is another structural diagram of an air conditioner outdoor unit according to some embodiments of this application;

[0023] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of part B in Figure 3;

[0024] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of part C in Figure 3;

[0025] Figure 6 is another structural diagram of an air conditioner outdoor unit according to some embodiments of this application;

[0026] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of part D in Figure 6;

[0027] Figure 8 is a structural diagram of a first sub-grid according to some embodiments of this application;

[0028] Figure 9 is an enlarged view of part E in Figure 8;

[0029] Figure 10 is another structural diagram of the first sub-grid according to some embodiments of this application;

[0030] Figure 11 is a structural diagram of a second sub-grid according to some embodiments of this application;

[0031] Figure 12 is an enlarged view of part F in Figure 11;

[0032] Figure 13A is a structural diagram of a second sub-grid according to some embodiments of this application;

[0033] Figure 13B is an enlarged view of part G in Figure 13A;

[0034] Figure 13C is another structural diagram of the second sub-grid according to some embodiments of this application;

[0035] Figure 14 is a structural diagram of a grille according to some embodiments of this application;

[0036] Figure 15 is an enlarged view of part H in Figure 14;

[0037] Figure 16 is an enlarged view of part I in Figure 2.

[0038] Figure 17 is a structural diagram of a second snap-fit ​​portion according to some embodiments of this application;

[0039] Figure 18 is a structural diagram of a second fixing position according to some embodiments of this application;

[0040] Figure 19 is a partial cross-sectional view along the AA direction in Figure 10. Embodiments of the present invention

[0041] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below, and the embodiments described with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary.

[0042] In some embodiments of this application, an air conditioner is provided that performs a refrigeration cycle by using a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator. The refrigeration cycle includes a series of processes involving compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation to cool or heat an indoor space.

[0043] Low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant enters the compressor, which compresses it into a high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas and discharges the compressed refrigerant gas. The discharged refrigerant gas flows into the condenser. The condenser condenses the compressed refrigerant into a liquid phase, and the heat is released to the surrounding environment through the condensation process.

[0044] The expansion valve expands the high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant that condenses in the condenser into a low-pressure liquid refrigerant. The evaporator evaporates the expanded refrigerant in the expansion valve and returns the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant gas to the compressor. The evaporator achieves its cooling effect by utilizing the latent heat of refrigerant evaporation to exchange heat with the material being cooled. Throughout the cycle, the air conditioner regulates the temperature of the indoor space.

[0045] The outdoor unit of an air conditioner refers to the part of the refrigeration cycle that includes the compressor and the outdoor heat exchanger. The indoor unit of an air conditioner includes the indoor heat exchanger, and the expansion valve can be provided in either the indoor or outdoor unit.

[0046] The indoor and outdoor heat exchangers function as either condensers or evaporators. When the indoor heat exchanger is used as a condenser, the air conditioner functions as a heater in heating mode; when the indoor heat exchanger is used as an evaporator, the air conditioner functions as a cooler in cooling mode.

[0047] According to some embodiments of this application, as shown in Figures 1A to 3, an outdoor unit 1 for an air conditioner is provided, where the outdoor unit 1 for the air conditioner is also the outdoor unit of the air conditioner.

[0048] As shown in Figure 1A, the outdoor unit 1 of the air conditioner includes a casing 10 and a grille 20. The casing 10 has a bottom and a top, with the top and bottom of the casing 10 being opposite sides. The distance from the bottom to the top of the casing 10 is the height direction of the casing 10. The casing 10 also has a length direction, with one side and the other side of the casing 10 being opposite ends in the left-right direction. The distance from one side to the other side in the left-right direction is the length direction of the casing 10. The casing 10 has a front side and a rear side arranged opposite to each other. The side of the casing 10 facing the user is the front side of the casing 10, and the side of the casing 10 facing the wall is the rear side of the casing 10. The distance from the front side to the rear side of the casing 10 is the front-rear direction of the casing 10.

[0049] In some embodiments, the housing 10 is provided with an air outlet 110 and an air return outlet. Schematic, the air outlet 110 is provided on the front side of the housing 10, and the air return outlet is provided on the rear side of the housing 10.

[0050] In some embodiments, the outdoor unit 1 of the air conditioner further includes a partition plate that divides the inner cavity of the outdoor unit 1 into a first inner cavity and a second inner cavity. The return air vent and the air outlet 110 communicate with the first inner cavity. The compressor and the electrical box are disposed in the second inner cavity.

[0051] In some embodiments, the outdoor unit 1 of the air conditioner further includes a heat exchanger 50. The heat exchanger 50 is disposed in a first inner cavity of the housing 10 and is configured to exchange heat with the flowing air.

[0052] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner without a grille. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 2, the outdoor unit 1 also includes a fan 30. The fan 30 is disposed in the first inner cavity of the housing 10 and is configured to provide airflow power. Under the action of the fan 30, outside air flows into the housing 10 through the return air inlet, flows through the heat exchanger 50 for heat exchange, and the heat-exchanged air is then discharged from the air outlet 110.

[0053] In some embodiments, the housing 10 includes a front panel 100. The front panel 100 is disposed on the front side of the housing 10, and an air outlet 110 is provided on the front panel 100. The front panel 100 covers the front side of the first inner cavity.

[0054] In some embodiments, the housing 10 further includes a service plate 200. The service plate 200 is located on the front side of the housing 10; in other words, the service plate 200 covers the front side of the second inner cavity. The service plate 200 is removable to allow for the maintenance of components such as the compressor and electrical box in the second inner cavity.

[0055] In some embodiments, the front panel 100 and the service panel 200 together constitute the front panel of the housing 10.

[0056] Referring to Figures 1A, 1B and 2, in some embodiments, the grille 20 covers the front panel 100 and the service panel 200.

[0057] In some embodiments, the grille 20 is provided with a ventilation gap 26 for gas flow, and the ventilation gap 26 is connected to the air outlet 110.

[0058] In some embodiments, the grille 20 not only covers the air outlet 110, but can cover the entire front panel of the housing 10, that is, the grille 20 covers the entire front view of the outdoor unit 1. The grille 20 constitutes the main view of the outdoor unit 1, breaking the image of the outdoor unit as a "large wind tunnel" and providing users with a brand-new visual effect. The main view of the outdoor unit 1 refers to the front view of the outdoor unit 1 in the installed state.

[0059] In some embodiments, a first seam 41 exists between the front panel 100 and the maintenance panel 200. The first seam 41 is visually noticeable and affects the overall appearance of the unit. Water seepage is likely to occur at the first seam 41, and water from the outside can easily seep into the interior of the outdoor unit 1 through the first seam 42, reducing the reliability of the outdoor unit 1.

[0060] In some embodiments, the grille 20 covers the front panel 100 and the maintenance panel 200. Since the grille 20 covers the entire front panel of the outdoor unit 1, that is, the grille 20 covers the first seam 41, the risk of water seepage at the first seam 41 is reduced.

[0061] In some embodiments, the grille 20 covers the front panel 100 and the first seam 41, thereby reducing the risk of water seepage at the first seam 41.

[0062] In some embodiments, the grid 20 may be made of polypropylene, which is easy to process and has low cost.

[0063] In some embodiments, the grille 20 is detachably mounted on the front panel 100 and the service panel 200. The grille 20 is detachable so that the removal of the front panel 100 and the service panel 200 can be carried out without affecting the removal of the air conditioner outdoor unit 1, thereby facilitating internal maintenance.

[0064] In some embodiments, referring to FIG2, the housing 10 further includes a top plate 12, which is disposed on the top of the housing 10, and a second seam 42 is provided between the front panel 100 and the top plate 12 and between the maintenance plate 200 and the top plate 12.

[0065] Figure 3 is a structural diagram of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to some embodiments, and Figure 4 is an enlarged view of part B in Figure 3.

[0066] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 3 and 4, the grille 20 includes a first flange 21 disposed on the top of the grille 20. The first flange 21 extends toward the housing 10, and schematically, the first flange 21 may extend in a horizontal direction toward the housing 10. The first flange 21 covers the second seam 42.

[0067] Covering the second seam 42 at the top with the first flange 21 helps reduce the risk of water seepage at the second seam 42. At the same time, covering the second seam 42 at the top with the first flange 21 visually reduces the number of seams, which helps improve the visual aesthetics of the outdoor unit 1.

[0068] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to FIG2, a first arcuate surface 11 is provided at the position where the front side of the housing 10 meets the side of the housing 10, and the first arcuate surface 11 extends along the height direction of the housing 10.

[0069] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 3 and 5, the side of the grille 20 is provided with a second flange 22, which extends along the height direction of the housing 10 and fits against the housing 10. The grille 20 also includes a third flange 23, which extends along the length direction of the housing 10.

[0070] The bottom of the second flange 22 meets the end of the second flange 22, and the third flange 23 is provided with a second arc-shaped surface 24, which is adapted to fit the first arc-shaped surface 11. In this way, the grille 20 and the housing 10 are well fitted together.

[0071] In some embodiments, referring to FIG6, the grille 20 includes a first sub-grille 300 and a second sub-grille 400.

[0072] In some embodiments, a first sub-grille 300 is disposed on the front panel 100 and configured to cover the front panel 100. A ventilation gap 26 is provided on the first sub-grille 300, through which air flowing from the air outlet 110 is discharged.

[0073] In some embodiments, the front panel 100 has a rectangular structure, and correspondingly, the first sub-grille 300 also has a rectangular structure. The first sub-grille 300 not only covers the air outlet 110, but covers the entire front panel 100, so the front panel 100 is not exposed. The first sub-grille 300 constitutes part of the main body surface of the outdoor unit 1 of the air conditioner.

[0074] In some embodiments, a second sub-grille 400 is disposed on the maintenance plate 200 and is configured to cover the maintenance plate 200.

[0075] In other words, the maintenance panel 200 has a rectangular structure, and correspondingly, the second sub-grille 400 also has a rectangular structure. The second sub-grille 400 completely covers the maintenance panel 200, and the maintenance panel 200 is not exposed. The second sub-grille 400 constitutes part of the main surface of the outdoor unit 1 of the air conditioner.

[0076] In some embodiments, the second sub-grille 400 overlaps the first sub-grille 300. As previously mentioned, the first sub-grille 300 covers the front panel 100, and the second sub-grille 400 covers the maintenance panel 200. During use, the maintenance panel 200 is disassembled more frequently than the front panel 100. Therefore, the second sub-grille 400 overlaps the first sub-grille 300, so the first sub-grille 300 does not affect the disassembly of the second sub-grille 400. Thus, when the maintenance panel 200 needs to be disassembled, the second sub-grille 400 can be directly removed, exposing the maintenance panel 200, which can then be disassembled.

[0077] In some embodiments, as previously described, a first seam 41 is provided between the front panel 100 and the maintenance panel 200, whereby the splicing position between the first sub-grille 300 and the second sub-grille 400 can cover the first seam 41. Since the first seam 41 is covered, the risk of water seepage at the first seam 41 can be reduced.

[0078] In some embodiments, referring to FIG7, the first seam 41 is exposed outside the first sub-grid 300. Thus, after the second sub-grid 400 is removed, the first seam 41 is exposed, and the removal of the maintenance plate 200 is not affected without removing the first sub-grid 300.

[0079] Figure 8 is a structural diagram of the first sub-grate viewed from the air outlet side, Figure 9 is an enlarged view of part E in Figure 8, and Figure 10 is a structural diagram of the first sub-grate viewed from the air inlet side.

[0080] Referring to Figures 8 to 10, in some embodiments, the first sub-grille 300 includes a frame 310, which forms a perimeter frame structure of the first sub-grille 300. The frame 310 is configured to connect to the front panel 100 to achieve fixed installation of the first sub-grille 300 on the front panel 100. The frame 310 forms a frame opening 311, which corresponds to and communicates with the air outlet 110.

[0081] In some embodiments, the first sub-grid 300 further includes a plurality of ribs 25, which are connected to the frame 310 and disposed within the frame opening 311, with a ventilation gap 26 formed between adjacent ribs 25.

[0082] In some embodiments, the area of ​​the frame opening 311 is larger than the area of ​​the air outlet 110, that is, the ventilation area of ​​the first sub-grate 300 is larger than the area of ​​the air outlet 110. In this way, the air flowing out from the air outlet 110 can flow out from the first sub-grate 300 with a larger ventilation area, which helps to increase the air volume.

[0083] In some embodiments, the frame 310 forms the frame structure of the first sub-grille 300, and the ribs 25 are formed on the frame 310. In addition to forming the ventilation gaps 26, the multiple ribs 25 also serve a decorative function on the appearance of the first sub-grille 300.

[0084] In some embodiments, the first sub-grille 300 is disposed on the front panel 100, and not just at the air outlet 110. The ribs 25 on the first sub-grille 300 extend a certain distance along the air outlet direction, which can effectively hide the fan 30 inside the outdoor unit 1, so that the fan 30 is not visible when viewed from the front top of the outdoor unit 1.

[0085] Since the ribs 25 on the first sub-grille 300 extend a certain distance along the air outlet direction, the ribs 25 have a good airflow guiding effect on the air outlet, which helps to increase the air delivery distance.

[0086] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG9, the rib 25 includes a plurality of spaced-apart first ribs 320 and a plurality of spaced-apart second ribs 330. The first ribs 320 are referred to as first transverse ribs, and the second ribs 330 are referred to as first vertical ribs. The first ribs 320 and the second ribs 330 extend in different directions, and the first ribs 320 and the second ribs 330 intersect.

[0087] Schematic illustration: the first rib 320 extends along the left-right length direction of the housing 10, and the second rib 330 extends along the vertical height direction of the housing 10. The intersection of the first rib 320 and the second rib 330 helps to improve the structural strength of the first sub-grid 300.

[0088] Figures 11 and 13A are structural diagrams of the second sub-grate viewed from the air outlet side. Figure 12 is an enlarged view of part F in Figure 11. Figure 13B is an enlarged view of part G in Figure 13A. Figure 13C is a structural diagram of the second sub-grate viewed from the air inlet side.

[0089] As shown in Figures 11 to 13C, in some embodiments, the second sub-grid 400 includes a base 410, which is a plate-like structure. The base 410 has a plurality of reinforcing ribs 411 on the side facing the housing 10 to improve the structural strength of the second sub-grid 400.

[0090] The base 410 has multiple ribs 25 on the side facing away from the housing 10. Schematically, the second sub-grid 400 has multiple spaced-apart third ribs 420 and multiple spaced-apart fourth ribs 430 on the side facing away from the housing 10. The third ribs 420 are designated as second transverse ribs, and the fourth ribs 430 are designated as second vertical ribs. The third ribs 420 and fourth ribs 430 extend in different directions and intersect.

[0091] In some embodiments, the third rib 420 extends along the left-right length direction of the housing 10, and the fourth rib 430 extends along the vertical height direction of the housing 10. The intersection of the third rib 420 and the fourth rib 430 is beneficial to improving the structural strength of the second sub-grid 400.

[0092] Multiple first ribs 320 are connected to multiple third ribs 420 one by one. The spacing between adjacent first ribs 320 is the same, the spacing between adjacent second ribs 330 is the same, the spacing between adjacent third ribs 420 is the same, and the spacing between adjacent fourth ribs 430 is the same. The spacing between adjacent first ribs 320 and adjacent third ribs 420 is consistent, and the spacing between adjacent second ribs 330 and adjacent fourth ribs 430 is approximately the same. In this way, after the first sub-grille 300 and the second sub-grille 400 are installed in place, they form a whole with a consistent appearance, forming the entire grille structure on the main surface of the outdoor unit 1 of the air conditioner.

[0093] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 9, the first sub-grid 300 includes a fourth flange 340 disposed on top of the first sub-grid 300. Referring to Figure 12, the second sub-grid 400 includes a fifth flange 440 disposed on top of the second sub-grid 400. The fourth flange 340 and the fifth flange 440 are configured to cover the corresponding second seam 42.

[0094] In some embodiments, at least one of the first sub-grille 300 and the second sub-grille 400 is provided with an extension rib, which abuts against at least one of the front panel 100 and the maintenance panel 200 to prevent air flowing from the air outlet 110 from flowing to the second sub-grille 400.

[0095] [Corrected according to Rule 91, June 17, 2025] In some embodiments, referring to FIG10, a first extension rib 360 is provided on the first sub-grille 300, the first extension rib 360 extends along the height direction of the housing 10, and the first extension rib 360 abuts against the front panel 100. Referring to FIG13C, a second extension rib 460 is provided on the second sub-grille 400, the second extension rib 460 extends along the height direction of the housing 10, and the second extension rib 460 abuts against the maintenance plate 200.

[0096] The aforementioned close-fitting design blocks the air flowing out of the air outlet 110, preventing the air from flowing to the second sub-grate 400, so that all the air is discharged from the first sub-grate 300.

[0097] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 14 and 15, the first sub-grid 300 has a first extension edge 350 on the side near the second sub-grid 400. The second sub-grid 400 has a second extension edge 450 on the side near the first sub-grid 300. The second extension edge 450 covers the outside of the first extension edge 350 to cover the first seam 41.

[0098] In some embodiments, the second extension edge 450 covers the outside of the first extension edge 350, thereby achieving an overlap between the first sub-grid 300 and the second sub-grid 400 and reducing the gap at the splicing position of the first sub-grid 300 and the second sub-grid 400.

[0099] In some embodiments, the connection structure between the first sub-grille 300 and the front panel 100, and the connection structure between the second sub-grille 400 and the maintenance plate 200 are the same, both using a combination of snap-fit ​​and screws to facilitate disassembly and assembly.

[0100] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to FIG2. The front panel 100 and the maintenance plate 200 are provided with a first snap-fit ​​portion 510 and a first fixing position 610. Schematically, the first fixing position 610 is a screw hole.

[0101] Schematic, Figure 2 shows eight first latching portions 510 and nine first fixing positions 610. Four first latching portions 510 and five first fixing positions 610 are provided on the front panel 100, and four first latching portions 510 and four first fixing positions 610 are provided on the service plate 200. The first latching portions 510 are located above the front panel 100 and service plate 200, and the first fixing positions 610 are located in the lower center of the front panel 100 and service plate 200. The number and location of the first latching portions 510 and first fixing positions 610 in Figure 2 are merely illustrative; other numbers and locations are possible.

[0102] Referring to Figure 14, the first sub-grille 300 and the second sub-grille 400 are provided with a second snap-fit ​​portion 520 on the side facing the housing 10. The first sub-grille 300 and the second sub-grille 400 are also provided with a second fixing position 620. Schematably, the second fixing position 620 can be a screw post with a through screw hole. The position and number of the second snap-fit ​​portions 520 correspond to the first snap-fit ​​portions 510, and the position and number of the second fixing positions 620 correspond to the first fixing positions 610.

[0103] Schematic, Figure 14 shows eight second engaging portions 520 and nine second fixing positions 620. Four second engaging portions 520 and five second fixing positions 620 are provided on the first sub-grid 300, and four second engaging portions 520 and four second fixing positions 620 are provided on the second sub-grid 400. The second engaging portions 520 are located above the first sub-grid 300 and the second sub-grid 400, and the second fixing positions 620 are located in the lower middle part of the first sub-grid 300 and the second sub-grid 400. The number and placement of the second engaging portions 520 and the second fixing positions 620 in Figure 14 are merely illustrative; other numbers and placements are possible.

[0104] The first snap-fit ​​part 510 snaps into the second snap-fit ​​part 520, and the first fixing position 610 and the second fixing position 620 are connected by a connector, for example, a screw.

[0105] During installation, the first snap-fit ​​part 510 and the second snap-fit ​​part 520 are first snapped together, and then the first fixing position 610 and the second fixing position 620 are fixed with screws. This achieves the fixed installation between the grille 20 and the housing 10. The snap-fit ​​serves as a pre-positioning mechanism for installation, and the screws are used for final locking and fixing, resulting in a reliable structure.

[0106] In some embodiments, referring to FIG14, a plurality of spaced-apart second engaging portions 520 are provided at the top of the grille 20, and a plurality of second fixing positions 620 are provided on the left and right sides and the bottom of the grille 20. In other words, a plurality of spaced-apart second engaging portions 520 are provided at the top of the first sub-grille 300, and a plurality of second fixing positions 620 are provided on the left and right sides and the bottom of the first sub-grille 300. A plurality of spaced-apart second engaging portions 520 are provided at the top of the second sub-grille 400, and a plurality of second fixing positions 620 are provided on the left and right sides and the bottom of the second sub-grille 400.

[0107] During installation, the first sub-grid 300 and the second sub-grid 400 are installed independently, and the installation process is the same for both. First, snap the first snap-fit ​​part 510 and the second snap-fit ​​part 520 at the top, hang the grid 20 on the housing 10, and then lock it in place with screws. This makes installation easy.

[0108] In some embodiments, the first snap-fit ​​portion 510 is a snap-fit ​​opening 511 formed on the front panel 100 and the maintenance plate 200, which facilitates processing. Figure 16 is a structural diagram of a snap-fit ​​opening 511 provided in some embodiments of this application. The second snap-fit ​​portion 520 is a snap hook 521 formed on the grille 20. Figure 17 is a structural diagram of a snap hook 521 provided in some embodiments of this application. The snap hook 521 is snapped into the snap-fit ​​opening 511. During installation, the snap hook 521 is snapped into the snap-fit ​​opening 511 from top to bottom, which facilitates the installation operation.

[0109] In some embodiments, referring to FIG16, the bayonet 511 includes a first bayonet section 512 and a second bayonet section 513 that are connected. The first bayonet section 512 is located above the second bayonet section 513. Along the length direction of the housing 10, the width of the first bayonet section 512 is greater than the width of the second bayonet section 513. In other words, the bayonet 511 is an opening structure that is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom.

[0110] The hook 521 descends from top to bottom through the first section 512 to the second section 513, where it engages with the hook 521. The wider first section 512 facilitates the insertion of the hook 521. The narrower second section 513 helps to improve the stability of the hook 521 engagement, preventing lateral wobbling after engagement.

[0111] In some embodiments, referring to FIG17, the hook 521 includes a horizontal hook portion 522 and a vertical hook portion 523. The horizontal hook portion 522 extends from the grille 20 toward the housing 10, and the vertical hook portion 523 extends downward from the horizontal hook portion 522. An insertion portion 524 is formed between the horizontal hook portion 522 and the vertical hook portion 523, and the bottom edge of the latch 511 is inserted into the insertion portion 524. The engagement between the insertion portion 524 and the latch 511 helps to improve the reliability of the engagement and avoids back-and-forth shaking after engagement.

[0112] In some embodiments, the first fixing position 610 and the second fixing position 620 are connected by a connector, wherein the outer end face of the connector is not higher than the outer surface of the grille 20. In other words, the outer surface of the grille 20 is the outer surface of the rib 25, and the outer end face of the connector is not higher than the outer end face of the rib 25, which is equivalent to the connector being embedded within the rib 25, using the rib 25 to conceal the connector. The outer surface of the grille 20 refers to the side of the grille 20 away from the housing 10, the outer end face of the connector refers to the side of the connector away from the housing 10, and the outer end face of the rib 25 also refers to the side of the rib 25 away from the housing 10.

[0113] In some embodiments, referring to FIG18, along the air outlet direction of the outdoor unit 1 of the air conditioner, the width of the first rib 320 is greater than the width of the second rib 330, the second fixing position 620 passes through the first rib 320, and the outer end face of the connector is not higher than the outer end face of the first rib 320.

[0114] In some embodiments, the first rib 320 extends a certain distance along the air outlet direction, which can effectively hide the fan 30 inside the outdoor unit 1 of the air conditioner, so that the fan 30 is not visible when viewed from the front and upper direction of the outdoor unit 1.

[0115] In some embodiments, a second fixing position 620 is provided that passes through the first rib 320, and the screw within the second fixing position 620 is hidden by the first rib 320, thus achieving a screw-hiding design. In other words, the screw is shielded by the higher rib 25, and due to the reflection of light at the shape change point, the screw can be well hidden.

[0116] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 14, the grille 20 is provided with a handle groove 700. When assembling or disassembling the grille 20, the handle groove 700 provides a handhold for the operator, facilitating assembly and disassembly.

[0117] In some embodiments, the hand groove 700 extends along the height direction of the grille 20 to facilitate hand insertion.

[0118] In some embodiments, the opening of the handle groove 700 faces the side of the grille 20, which facilitates the hand to reach in from the side of the grille 20 for gripping operations.

[0119] In some embodiments, the handle groove 700 is a closed design. A closed design means that the opening of the handle groove 700 is not open when not in use. That is, the opening has the characteristic of being able to be closed or blocked. Since the handle groove 700 is closed, it can effectively prevent short circuit of return air and optimize the air field. The closed design can also prevent light from shining into the front panel 100 from the handle direction, causing inconsistent brightness on the front of the outdoor unit 1 of the air conditioner. In addition, the closed design of the handle groove 700, compared with the open design, helps to improve the structural strength of the grille 20.

[0120] In some embodiments, referring to FIG19, the handle groove 700 has a conformal design on the inner wall facing the air outlet side so as to fit well with the hand.

[0121] In some embodiments, referring to FIG14, a plurality of spaced-apart handle grooves 700 are provided on the grille 20. The plurality of handle grooves 700 are spaced apart along the height direction of the grille 20 to facilitate operation. Indicatively, the spaced arrangement can be uniform or non-uniform.

[0122] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 3 and 5, the grille 20 is located on the air outlet side of the housing 10. A second flange 22 is provided on the side of the grille 20, extending along the height direction of the housing 10. The second flange 22 is located on the side of the housing 10, and the opening of the handle groove 700 is located on the second flange 22. The handle groove 700 is provided on the second flange 22. Utilizing this space to provide the handle groove 700 eliminates the need to increase the thickness of the grille 20, and it is also easier to implement in the mold.

[0123] [Correction 17.06.2025 based on Rule 91] In some embodiments, referring to FIG10, a handle groove 700 is provided on the side of the first sub-grid 300. Schematably, the handle groove 700 is provided on the frame 310, with the opening of the handle groove 700 facing the side of the frame 310. Referring to FIG13C, a handle groove 700 is also provided on the side of the second sub-grid 400.

[0124] It should be noted that, in the description of this application, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0125] The terms “center,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “back,” “left,” “right,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “top,” “bottom,” “inner,” and “outer,” etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0126] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0127] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0128] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature being directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0129] The above description is merely an embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An outdoor unit for an air conditioner, comprising: The casing includes a front panel and a maintenance panel, wherein an air vent is provided on the front panel, and a first seam is provided between the front panel and the maintenance panel; A heat exchanger is disposed within the housing and is configured to exchange heat with the flowing air. A fan is disposed within the housing and is configured to provide power for air circulation. A grille, covering the front panel and the maintenance panel to cover the first seam, is provided with ventilation gaps for airflow, the ventilation gaps communicating with the air outlet.

2. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein, The grille is detachably mounted on the front panel and the service panel.

3. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein, The housing also includes a top plate, and a second seam is provided between the front panel and the top plate and between the maintenance plate and the top plate; the top of the grille is provided with a first flange, which covers the second seam.

4. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein, The grille is provided with a handle groove.

5. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 4, wherein, The handle groove extends along the height direction of the grille, and the opening of the handle groove faces the side of the grille.

6. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein, The side of the grille is provided with a second flange, which extends along the height direction of the housing and fits against the housing.

7. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 6, wherein, The second flange is provided with a handle groove.

8. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 6, wherein, The front of the housing has a first arc-shaped surface located near the side of the housing, and the first arc-shaped surface extends along the height direction of the housing; the bottom of the grille has a third flange, and the third flange extends along the length direction of the housing; the bottom of the second flange and the end of the third flange meet, and the third flange has a second arc-shaped surface, which is adapted to fit the first arc-shaped surface.

9. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein, The front panel is provided with a first snap-fit ​​part and a first fixing position. The grille is provided with a second snap-fit ​​part on the side facing the front panel, and the grille is also provided with a second fixing position. The first snap-fit ​​part snaps into the second snap-fit ​​part, and the first fixing position and the second fixing position are connected by a connector.

10. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 9, wherein, The outer end face of the connector is not higher than the outer surface of the grille.

11. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 9, wherein, The first snap-fit ​​portion is a snap-fit ​​opening formed on the front panel, and the second snap-fit ​​portion is a snap hook formed on the grille, wherein the snap hook is snapped into the snap-fit ​​opening.

12. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 11, wherein, The bayonet includes a first bayonet section and a second bayonet section that are connected. The first bayonet section is located above the second bayonet section. Along the length of the front panel, the length of the first bayonet section is greater than the length of the second bayonet section. The hook extends from top to bottom through the first bayonet section to the second bayonet section and engages with the second bayonet section.

13. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 11, wherein, The hook includes a horizontal portion and a vertical portion. The horizontal portion extends from the grille toward the front panel, and the vertical portion extends downward from the horizontal portion. A slot is formed between the horizontal portion and the vertical portion, and the bottom edge of the latch is inserted into the slot.

14. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 9, wherein, The grille has multiple second snap-fit ​​parts arranged at intervals near the top, and multiple second fixing positions are provided on the left and right sides and the bottom side of the grille.

15. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein, The grille includes a first sub-grille, which covers the front panel and has the ventilation gap.

16. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 15, wherein, The first sub-grid has a handle groove on its side.

17. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 15, wherein, The first sub-grille includes a frame, the frame is connected to the front panel, the frame forms a frame opening, and the frame opening is correspondingly connected to the air outlet; The first sub-grid also includes a plurality of ribs, which are connected to the frame and disposed within the opening of the frame, with the ventilation gap formed between two adjacent ribs.

18. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 17, wherein, The handle groove is provided on the frame.

19. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 17, wherein, The ribs include a plurality of spaced-apart first ribs and a plurality of spaced-apart second ribs, the first ribs and the second ribs extending in different directions, and the first ribs intersecting with the second ribs.

20. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 19, wherein, A first fixing position is provided on the front panel, and a second fixing position is provided on the first sub-grille. Along the air outlet direction of the outdoor unit of the air conditioner, the width of the first rib is greater than the width of the second rib. The second fixing position passes through the first rib, and the first fixing position and the second fixing position are connected by a connector.

21. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 20, wherein, The outer end face of the connector is not higher than the outer end face of the first rib.

22. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 15, wherein, The grille also includes a second sub-grille, which covers the maintenance plate.

23. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 22, wherein, The second sub-grid has a handle groove on its side.

24. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 22, wherein, The second sub-grid overlaps the first sub-grid.

25. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 24, wherein, The overlap between the first sub-grid and the second sub-grid covers the first seam.

26. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 25, wherein, The first seam is located outside the first sub-grid. The first sub-grid has a first extended edge on the side near the second sub-grid, and the second sub-grid has a second extended edge on the side near the first sub-grid. The second extended edge covers the outside of the first extended edge to cover the first seam.

27. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to any one of claims 15 to 26, wherein, The first sub-grille is provided with a first extension rib, which extends along the height direction of the housing and abuts against the front panel to prevent air flowing from the air outlet from flowing to the second sub-grille.

28. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 27, wherein, The second sub-grid is provided with a second extension rib, which extends along the height direction of the housing and abuts against the maintenance plate to prevent air flowing from the air outlet from flowing to the second sub-grid.

29. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein, The casing also includes a top plate, and a second seam is provided between the front panel and the top plate and between the maintenance plate and the top plate; the first sub-grout includes a fourth flange, and the second sub-grout includes a fifth flange, the fourth flange and the fifth flange covering the corresponding second seam.

30. An outdoor unit for an air conditioner, comprising: The casing includes a front panel and a maintenance panel, wherein an air vent is provided on the front panel, and a first seam is provided between the front panel and the maintenance panel; A heat exchanger is disposed within the housing and is configured to exchange heat with the flowing air. A fan is disposed within the housing and is configured to provide power for air circulation. A grille is configured to cover the front panel and the first seam, and the grille has ventilation gaps for gas flow, the ventilation gaps communicating with the air outlet.

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