Outdoor Unit Valve Plate Layout for Compact Terminal Block Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to effectively utilize limited space within outdoor units of air-conditioning apparatuses, as the size reduction of these units often results in insufficient space for installing terminal blocks and other components.
Innovation Solution
The outdoor unit design includes a valve mounting plate positioned above the compressor, with an electrical component box and terminal block configuration that allows for efficient use of space by communicating between the upper and lower sides, enabling effective installation and operation within compact casings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the size of the outdoor unit is reduced to meet space constraints, then the installation space for terminal blocks and other components becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensional change by transitioning from a horizontal arrangement to a vertical arrangement of components. The terminal block is positioned above the compressor in the vertical direction, allowing effective use of the vertical space within the compact outdoor unit casing, thereby resolving the space constraint issue.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing the terminal block above the compressor within the same vertical space envelope. This nested arrangement allows multiple components to occupy overlapping or adjacent vertical spaces, maximizing the utilization of limited installation space in the compact outdoor unit.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the outdoor unit is installed in a limited space such as a balcony, then the space for installing terminal blocks and other components is constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables installation flexibility by utilizing the vertical dimension for component arrangement. The terminal block is positioned in the vertical direction above the compressor, allowing the outdoor unit to be adapted to limited horizontal installation spaces such as balconies while maintaining adequate space for all components.
3Ease of operation
If the terminal block is positioned to facilitate wiring connections, then the space utilization inside the casing is optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the terminal block positioning with the compressor positioning in the vertical arrangement. The terminal block is located directly above the compressor, combining the space utilization function with the wiring connection function, thereby simplifying the overall structure while facilitating ease of operation for wiring connections.
Data Source
Figure 1A(a)~1A(b)
Figure 1B~1C
Figure 1D~1E
AI summary
Provided is an outdoor unit connected to an indoor unit through a refrigerant pipe, including: a casing; a compressor accommodated inside the casing; a valve mounting plate positioned in an upper part inside the casing and above the compressor; a valve mounted on the valve mounting plate, to which the refrigerant pipe is connected; and a terminal block to which a first wiring drawn from outside of the casing is connected, the terminal block being accommodated inside the casing, in which the valve mounting plate includes a mounting portion on which the terminal block is provided, the mounting portion communicating an upper side on which the valve is provided and a lower side on which the controller is provided into communication with each other.