Multi-Split AC Switching Structure for Noise-Isolated Drain Tanks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-split air conditioner switching devices suffer from noise propagation due to the placement of the drain tank, limiting application occasions and installation positions, and have limited capacity due to structural constraints, making them unsuitable for large-scale installations.
Innovation Solution
The switching device features a drain tank spaced apart from the base with damping pads and fixing members, reducing noise propagation and allowing for increased capacity by using a modular design with solenoid and check valve assemblies, enabling connection to multiple indoor units without enlarging the device's size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the drain tank is disposed inside the base with the heat exchange part above it, then the condensed water can be collected effectively, but the noise generated by refrigerant flow propagates through the drain tank to the base, enlarging the noise of the air conditioner
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces damping pads as an intermediary element between the drain tank and the base. These damping pads serve as a mediator that absorbs and attenuates the noise generated by refrigerant flow, preventing it from propagating through the drain tank to the base while maintaining the structural integrity and condensed water collection function of the original design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the cabinet size of the switching device is increased proportionally to accommodate more indoor units, then the capacity increases, but the entire device becomes too large, affecting the application occasion and installation position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a horizontal expansion approach to a vertical stacking approach. Instead of increasing the cabinet width or depth to accommodate more indoor units, the design stacks valve assemblies and connection components vertically, allowing the system to support more indoor units (up to 8 or more) while maintaining a compact horizontal footprint suitable for various installation positions.
3Volume of stationary object
If small-sized switching devices are foamed inside the cabinet, then the structure is compact, but the entire refrigeration part cannot be repaired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the switching device into modular segments, with each valve assembly and connection component designed as a separate, accessible unit. This segmentation allows individual components to be removed, replaced, or repaired independently without requiring access to the entire device, thereby maintaining compact size while significantly improving repairability of the refrigeration parts.
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 design significantly reduces noise, expands application and installation possibilities, and improves comfort and stability while allowing for control of multiple indoor units, maintaining a compact structure.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of damping pads disposed to the drain tank and arranged at intervals along a circumferential direction of the drain tank
Data Source
AI summary
A switching device for a multi-split air conditioner and a multi-split air conditioner having same. The switching device has a base, a drain tank, multiple damping pads, and multiple fixing members. The base has a bottom wall and side walls, the side walls surrounding the bottom wall and extending upward from the edge of the bottom wall. The drain tank is disposed in the base, and the bottom surface of the drain tank is vertically spaced apart from the bottom wall of the base. The multiple damping pads are disposed on the drain tank and arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the drain tank. The multiple fixing members are respectively disposed on the damping pads and are connected to the side walls of the base. The multiple fixing members are all spaced apart from the drain tank.