Switching device for multi-split air conditioner and multi-split air conditioner having same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-split air conditioners face limitations in the number of indoor units they can connect due to the size and structural constraints of switching devices, leading to reduced capacity and installation flexibility, as well as noise issues and maintenance challenges.
Innovation Solution
A compact switching device design with a gas-liquid separator, solenoid valve assembly, and check valve assembly, arranged in a modular and layered configuration to reduce length and enhance refrigerant flow management, allowing connection to multiple indoor units while improving refrigerant state and noise reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the cabinet size of the switching device is increased to connect more indoor units, then the capacity increases, but the device becomes too large affecting application occasions and installation positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensional reorganization by arranging connection tubes in multiple layers (first direction and second direction perpendicular to each other) instead of extending in a single linear direction. This spatial reconfiguration allows more connection tubes to be packed into a compact cabinet volume, increasing the number of connectable indoor units without proportionally increasing the cabinet's external dimensions.
2Volume of stationary object
If small-sized switching devices are foamed inside the cabinet, then the device size is reduced, but the refrigeration part becomes unable to be repaired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the switching device into separable components: the cabinet housing and the refrigeration parts (gas-liquid separator, heat exchange parts, connection tubes). The refrigeration parts are designed to be detachable from the cabinet, allowing them to be removed for repair or replacement without damaging or replacing the entire device. This segmentation enables maintenance while keeping the overall device compact.
3Device complexity
If connection tubes are arranged in a single direction, then the structure is simple, but the device length increases affecting installation positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional linear arrangement of connection tubes to a two-dimensional layered arrangement. Connection tubes are organized in multiple layers spaced apart in both the first direction and the second direction (perpendicular to the first direction). This multi-directional arrangement reduces the device length in any single direction while accommodating more connection tubes, at the cost of increased structural complexity.
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
The solution enables connection to more indoor units without increasing device size, enhances refrigerant efficiency, reduces noise, and facilitates easier installation and maintenance, expanding application occasions and installation positions.
Implementation Method 1
a gas-liquid separator disposed in the housing, and having an inlet, a first outlet and a second outlet, the inlet being configured to be connected to the outdoor unit
Data Source
AI summary
A switching device for a multi-split air conditioner, comprising: a housing, a gas-liquid separator, multiple first indoor unit interface pipes, at least one heat exchange component, and multiple second indoor unit interface pipes. The gas-liquid separator is provided with an inlet to an outdoor unit, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The multiple first indoor unit interface pipes and the multiple second indoor unit interface pipes are spaced from each other in a first direction. The first outlet is connected to multiple first interfaces by means of the multiple first indoor unit interface pipes, respectively. The first and second indoor unit interface pipes are spaced apart in a second direction. Some of the first and second indoor unit interface pipes are spaced apart from the rest of the first indoor unit interface pipes and the rest of the second indoor unit interface pipes in the second direction.