Outdoor Air Conditioner Base Structure for Drainage and Freeze Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing outdoor air conditioner bases are prone to water stagnation and freezing, which can negatively impact the operation of the outdoor device due to inadequate drainage systems.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a base with inclined drain holes and a blocking portion to effectively direct and drain defrosting water and rainwater, preventing it from accumulating and freezing, while maintaining sufficient support for the heat exchanger components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the base is designed with a simple structure to support heat exchanger components, then manufacturing cost and complexity are reduced, but water drainage capability deteriorates leading to water stagnation and freezing
Solution Approach 1:
The base is segmented into multiple functional zones: a first region for supporting heat exchanger components, a second region for water collection, and a third region for drainage. This segmentation allows the base to simultaneously provide structural support and effective water drainage without increasing overall complexity, as each zone performs a specific function efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
The drainage solution extends into the vertical dimension by creating a stepped structure with different height levels. The second region is positioned at a lower level than the first region, and the drainage path utilizes this height difference to enable gravity-driven water flow from the heat exchanger support area to the drainage outlet, eliminating the need for complex pumping systems.
2Area of stationary object
If the base area is increased to provide better support for heat exchanger components, then support stability is improved, but water stagnation risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the base are assigned different local qualities: the first region has a flat, stable surface optimized for heat exchanger support, while the second region features an inclined surface with drainage holes optimized for water drainage. This local differentiation allows each area to excel at its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The base is divided into distinct functional segments: a support region with adequate area for heat exchanger stability, and a separate drainage region with inclined surfaces and holes that actively channel water away. This segmentation prevents water accumulation in the support area while maintaining sufficient support area.
3Reliability
If drain holes are added to the base to improve water drainage, then water drainage capability is improved, but structural strength is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The drainage function is segmented into multiple small drain holes distributed across the second region, rather than requiring a single large opening. This segmentation maintains structural integrity by preserving most of the base material while providing adequate drainage through multiple smaller pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The drainage system utilizes the vertical dimension by creating a stepped structure where the second region is positioned lower than the first region. This height difference enables gravity-driven water flow through the drain holes without requiring large hole openings, thus maintaining base structural strength while achieving effective drainage.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration ensures smooth drainage of water, preventing freezing and ensuring stable operation of the outdoor air conditioner unit by maintaining a larger area for supporting the heat exchanger and preventing liquid from flowing into the base body.
Implementation Method 1
a drain hole extending inclined in a direction in which the heat exchanger is placed
Data Source
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AI summary
An outdoor device for an air conditioner is provided. The outdoor device may include a cabinet including at least one suction panel, a base provided at a lower portion of the cabinet, and a compressor and heat exchanger, which may be provided on the base. The base may include a base body, on which the compressor may be provided, an edge portion provided along a circumference of the base body, the edge portion including at least one seat that supports the heat exchanger, and a support guide provided on the edge portion to increase an area by which the heat exchanger may be supported.