Outdoor Unit Control Box Venting Against Rainwater Intrusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rainwater can enter the control box of an outdoor air conditioner unit through the air discharge port, potentially causing electrical issues or fires.
Innovation Solution
The outdoor unit features a stepped portion with air outlet ports on its upper surface, a blocking rib to divert rainwater, and an upper cover that shields these features, along with a bent rear end to form an exhaust path, preventing rainwater from entering the control box.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If air outlet ports are formed on the upper surface of the control box for heat dissipation, then cooling efficiency is improved, but rainwater can enter the control box causing electrical hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a stepped portion that protrudes upward from the upper surface, creating a vertical dimension barrier. The air outlet ports are formed on this stepped portion rather than directly on the flat upper surface, establishing a height difference that prevents rainwater from reaching the ports while maintaining air flow capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The stepped portion acts as an intermediary structure between the upper surface and the air outlet ports. This intermediate element serves dual functions: it maintains the air outlet ports at a higher elevation for effective heat dissipation while simultaneously acting as a physical barrier that intercepts and redirects rainwater away from the control box interior.
2Ease of manufacture
If the upper surface is kept flat for simple manufacturing, then manufacturing complexity is reduced, but rainwater can directly enter through air discharge ports
Solution Approach 1:
The upper surface is segmented into two distinct levels: the main upper surface and the stepped portion that protrudes upward. This segmentation creates a functional division where the stepped portion specifically addresses rainwater prevention while the main surface maintains manufacturing simplicity. The segmentation allows each portion to fulfill its specific function without overly complicating the overall structure.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the stepped portion protrudes upward to prevent rainwater entry, then rainproofing is improved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The stepped portion is integrated directly into the control box structure rather than being a separate added component. The air outlet ports are formed on the stepped portion itself, merging the rainproofing function and the ventilation function into a single integrated structural element. This merging approach minimizes additional complexity while achieving both objectives.
Data Source
AI summary
An outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a case; and a control box installed in the case, wherein a stepped portion protrudes from an upper surface of the control box, and a plurality of air outlet ports are formed at the stepped portion.