U.S. patent application number 14/416712 was filed with the patent office on 2015-07-23 for refrigeration cycle device.
The applicant listed for this patent is Mitsubishi Electric Corporation. Invention is credited to Masazumi Chisaki, Minoru Ishii, Hideaki Maeyama, Hiroaki Makino, Yasuhiro Suzuki.
Application Number | 20150204599 14/416712 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50226756 |
Filed Date | 2015-07-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150204599 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Chisaki; Masazumi ; et
al. |
July 23, 2015 |
REFRIGERATION CYCLE DEVICE
Abstract
A refrigeration cycle device includes: a casing that configures
the outer contour of an outdoor machine, has a machine chamber and
a blowing chamber formed therewithin, and has formed an
introduction hole for introducing outside air into the machine
chamber; a partition plate that partitions the interior of the
casing so as to demarcate the machine chamber and the blowing
chamber; a refrigeration cycle circuit, of which at least a portion
is disposed in the machine chamber, and through which a combustible
refrigerant circulates; and a blower disposed in the blowing
chamber. A blow-through hole connecting from the machine chamber to
the blowing chamber is formed in a bottom part of the partition
plate. The outside air introduced into the machine chamber from the
introduction hole flows through the blow-through hole and into the
blowing chamber, and is sent outside the casing from a blow-out
opening formed in the blowing chamber.
Inventors: |
Chisaki; Masazumi; (Tokyo,
JP) ; Suzuki; Yasuhiro; (Tokyo, JP) ; Makino;
Hiroaki; (Tokyo, JP) ; Maeyama; Hideaki;
(Tokyo, JP) ; Ishii; Minoru; (Tokyo, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Family ID: |
50226756 |
Appl. No.: |
14/416712 |
Filed: |
August 2, 2013 |
PCT Filed: |
August 2, 2013 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2013/071014 |
371 Date: |
January 23, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
62/426 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24F 1/56 20130101; F24F
1/06 20130101; F24F 1/24 20130101; F24F 1/38 20130101; F24F 1/48
20130101; F25D 17/06 20130101; F25D 23/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F25D 17/06 20060101
F25D017/06; F25D 23/00 20060101 F25D023/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 12, 2012 |
JP |
2012-200380 |
Claims
1. A refrigeration cycle device comprising: a casing that
configures an outer contour of an outdoor machine, has a first
chamber and a second chamber formed therewithin, and has formed an
introduction hole for introducing outside air into the first
chamber; a partition that partitions the interior of the casing so
as to demarcate the first chamber and the second chamber, and has
formed in a bottom part thereof a blow-through hole connecting from
the first chamber to the second chamber; a refrigeration cycle
circuit, of which at least a portion is disposed in the first
chamber, and through which a combustible refrigerant circulates;
and a blower disposed in the second chamber that sends out the
outside air introduced from the introduction hole through the
blow-through hole and outside the casing from a blow-out opening
formed in the second chamber.
2. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 1, wherein the
introduction hole is formed at a position higher than a position
where the blow-through hole is formed.
3. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 1, comprising:
a controller that includes a plurality of electronic components
used to control the refrigeration cycle circuit and the blower, and
an electronic component housing that houses the electronic
components; wherein the electronic component housing is disposed in
a top part inside the first chamber, and the introduction hole is
formed at a position lower than the electronic component
housing.
4. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 3, wherein a
height of a top edge of the introduction hole is the same height as
a height of a bottom edge of the electronic component housing.
5. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 3, wherein the
controller, before starting operation of the refrigeration cycle
circuit, controls a blowing fan of the blower to rotate for a
predetermined time.
6. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 3, wherein in
the electronic component housing, a first ventilation hole for
internally introducing air and a second ventilation hole for
exhausting the introduced air are formed.
7. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 1, wherein a
tubular bell mouth is attached on an inner side of the blow-out
opening, and the blow-through hole is covered by the bell mouth so
as to not be exposed from the blow-out opening.
8. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 1, wherein the
introduction hole is formed on the basis of a quenching distance of
the refrigerant.
9. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 8, wherein the
introduction hole comprises a plurality of holes with a
cross-section formed in a rectangular shape, and formed so that a
short edge of the rectangular shape is a dimension less than or
equal to a quenching distance of the refrigerant.
10. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 8, wherein on
the introduction hole, a first screen formed so as to cover an
opening is provided to prevent intrusion of rainwater from outside
into the first chamber.
11. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 1, wherein
the blow-through hole is formed on the basis of a quenching
distance of the refrigerant.
12. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 11, wherein
the blow-through hole comprises a plurality of holes with a
cross-section in a rectangular shape, and formed so that a short
edge of the rectangular shape is a dimension less than or equal to
a quenching distance of the refrigerant.
13. The refrigeration cycle device according to claim 11, wherein
on the blow-through hole, a second screen formed so as to cover an
opening is provided to prevent intrusion of rainwater from the
second chamber into the first chamber.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a U.S. national stage application of
International Patent Application No. PCT/JP2013/071014 filed on
Aug. 2, 2013, and is based on Japanese Patent Application No.
2012-200380 filed on Sep. 12, 2012, the disclosures of which are
incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to a refrigeration cycle
device using a combustible refrigerant.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Currently, hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants such as
R410A are being used as refrigerant in refrigeration cycle devices.
Unlike previous hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) refrigerants such as
R22, R410A has an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of zero and does
not damage the ozone layer, but R410A does have the property of a
high global warming potential (GWP). For this reason, as part of
stopping global warming, investigation is underway to shift from
HFC refrigerants with a high GWP such as R410A to HFC refrigerants
with a low GWP.
[0004] One candidate for an HFC refrigerant with a low GWP is R32
(CH.sub.2F.sub.2; difluoromethane). Other candidate refrigerants
with similar characteristics include halogenated hydrocarbons
having a carbon triple bond in their composition, such as
HFO-1234yf (CF.sub.3CF.dbd.CH.sub.2; tetrafluoropropene) and
HFO-1234ze (CF.sub.3--CH.dbd.CHF). These are a type of HFC
refrigerant similar to R32, but since the unsaturated hydrocarbons
with a carbon double bond are called olefins, the O in olefin is
often used to refer to these refrigerants as HFOs, to distinguish
these refrigerants from HFC refrigerants that do not have a carbon
double bond in their composition, such as R32.
[0005] Such low-GWP HFC refrigerants (including HFO refrigerants),
although not as readily combustible as HC refrigerants such as R290
(C.sub.3H.sub.8; propane), do have a weakly combustible property,
unlike the non-combustible R410A (hereinafter, refrigerants having
a combustible property will be designated combustible
refrigerants). For this reason, care is needed with respect to
refrigerant leakage.
[0006] Regarding this problem, in Patent Literature 1, for example,
if a combustible refrigerant leaks and the combustible refrigerant
accumulates in an electrical component box inside a machine chamber
of an outdoor unit, a blower housed in a blowing chamber is made to
operate before a compressor housed in the machine chamber is made
to operate. Consequently, the combustible refrigerant accumulated
inside the electrical component box of the machine chamber is
forcibly discharged externally.
PATENT LITERATURE
[0007] Patent Literature 1: Unexamined Japanese Patent Application
Kokai Publication No. H11-94291
TECHNICAL PROBLEM
[0008] In the refrigeration cycle device described in Patent
Literature 1, the electrical component box is disposed in a top
part inside the machine chamber. Also, a blow-through hole for
discharging combustible refrigerant accumulated in the electrical
component box is formed in a top part of a partition. Generally,
the combustible refrigerant is denser than air and has a greater
specific weight, and thus leaking combustible refrigerant
accumulates not only in the electrical component box, but also in
the bottom part of the machine chamber. However, with the
refrigeration cycle device described in Patent Literature 1, it is
physically difficult to cause combustible refrigerant with a
greater specific weight than air accumulated in a location other
than the electrical component box, such as the bottom part of the
machine chamber, for example, to pass through the blow-through hole
and be discharged externally. For this reason, there is a need to
further raise safety.
SUMMARY
[0009] The present disclosure has been devised in order to solve
the above problem, and takes as an object to provide a highly safe
refrigeration cycle device.
[0010] In order to achieve the above object, a refrigeration cycle
device according to the present disclosure includes a casing, a
partition, a refrigeration cycle circuit, and a blower. The casing
configures the outer contour of an outdoor machine, has a first
chamber and a second chamber formed therewithin, and has formed an
introduction hole for introducing outside air into the first
chamber. The partition partitions the interior of the casing so as
to demarcate the first chamber and the second chamber, and has
formed in a bottom part thereof a blow-through hole connecting from
the first chamber to the second chamber. At least part of the
refrigeration cycle circuit is disposed in the first chamber, and a
combustible refrigerant circulates therethrough. The blower is
disposed in the second chamber, and sends out the outside air
introduced from the introduction hole through the blow-through hole
and outside the casing from a blow-out opening formed in the second
chamber.
[0011] In the present disclosure, outside air introduced from an
introduction hole passes through a blow-through hole formed in a
bottom part of a partition, and is sent outside a casing by a
blower. For this reason, even in the case in which, for example,
combustible refrigerant having a greater specific weight than air
leaks out from the refrigeration cycle circuit and accumulates at
the floor of the first chamber, since a blow-through hole is formed
in the bottom part of the partition, the combustible refrigerant is
easily exhausted outside the casing together with the introduced
outside air. Consequently, a highly safe refrigeration cycle device
may be provided.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration cycle
device according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an outdoor machine of a
refrigeration cycle device.
[0014] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an outdoor machine with part
of the casing removed from the state of FIG. 2.
[0015] FIG. 4 is a cross-section along A-A in FIG. 2.
[0016] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of introduction holes formed in
a side panel of the casing.
[0017] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of blow-through holes formed in
a partition plate.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the action of a
refrigeration cycle device.
[0019] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the positional
relationship between blow-through holes formed in the partition
plate, and a bell mouth.
[0020] FIG. 9 is a diagram of an outdoor machine of a refrigeration
cycle device according to Embodiment 2 of the present
disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of blow-through holes formed
in a partition plate of a refrigeration cycle device according to
Embodiment 3 of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 11 is a front view of blow-through holes formed in a
partition plate of a refrigeration cycle device according to
Embodiment 4 of the present disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of blow-through holes formed
in a partition plate of a refrigeration cycle device according to
Embodiment 5 of the present disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of introduction holes formed
in a casing of a refrigeration cycle device according to Embodiment
6 of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Embodiment 1
[0025] Hereinafter, a refrigeration cycle device 10 according to
Embodiment 1 will be described using FIGS. 1 to 8.
[0026] A refrigeration cycle device 10 according to Embodiment 1 of
the present disclosure is an air conditioner that provides air
conditioning for an air-conditioned room by circulating refrigerant
through a refrigeration cycle circuit 100, for example. As
illustrated in FIG. 1, the refrigeration cycle device 10 is a
separated type that includes an indoor machine 20 and an outdoor
machine 30. For refrigerant, Embodiment 1 uses the HFC refrigerant
R32 (CH.sub.2F.sub.2; difluoromethane), which has a smaller global
warming potential (GWP) and a comparatively smaller effect on
global warming than the HFC refrigerant R410A widely being used in
air conditioners today. This R32 is a combustible refrigerant. In
addition, the refrigeration cycle device 10 includes, in addition
to the indoor machine 20 and the outdoor machine 30, a controller
that controls the refrigeration cycle circuit 100 and the like.
[0027] The indoor machine 20 is installed inside the
air-conditioned room, and is equipped with an indoor heat exchanger
21 and a blower 22.
[0028] The indoor heat exchanger 21 cools or heats the
air-conditioned room by exchanging heat between the refrigerant and
the surrounding air. For example, during cooling operation, the
indoor heat exchanger 21 functions as an evaporator, and causes
inflowing refrigerant to evaporate. Consequently, the indoor heat
exchanger 21 absorbs heat from the air surrounding the indoor heat
exchanger 21, and cools the surrounding air. By supplying this
cooled air to the room, the air-conditioned room is cooled as a
result. Also, during heating operation, the indoor heat exchanger
21 functions as a condenser, and causes inflowing gas refrigerant
to condense. Consequently, the indoor heat exchanger 21 emits heat
into the air surrounding the indoor heat exchanger 21, and heats
the surrounding air. By supplying this heated air to the room, the
air-conditioned room is heated as a result.
[0029] The blower 22 is installed near the indoor heat exchanger
21, and includes a blowing fan 22a and a fan motor 22b that rotates
the blowing fan 22a. By the rotation of the blowing fan 22a, the
blower 22 generates airflow that passes through the indoor heat
exchanger 21. Subsequently, heat-exchanged air is supplied to the
air-conditioned room by the generated airflow. The type of blowing
fan 22a of the blower 22 depends on the shape of the indoor machine
20. A cross-flow fan or turbofan may be used, for example.
[0030] The outdoor machine 30 is installed outdoors, and is
equipped with a compressor 31, a four-way valve 32, an outdoor heat
exchanger 33, an expansion valve 34, and a blower 35.
[0031] The compressor 31 is a device that compresses supplied
refrigerant. As a result of being compressed by the compressor 31,
refrigerant flowing in from a suction pipe 31a is changed into high
temperature and high pressure gas refrigerant. Subsequently, the
compressor 31 delivers the high temperature and high pressure
refrigerant to the four-way valve 32 via a discharge pipe 31b. High
temperature and high pressure gas refrigerant compressed by the
compressor 31 continuously flows in the discharge pipe 31b.
Meanwhile, low temperature and low pressure refrigerant flows in
the suction pipe 31a. This low temperature and low pressure
refrigerant is made up of gas refrigerant, or a two-phase
refrigerant of gas refrigerant intermixed with a small quantity of
liquid refrigerant. The compressor 31 is controlled by the
controller.
[0032] The four-way valve 32 is provided downstream to the
compressor 31. The four-way valve 32, by switching the circulation
direction of refrigerant inside the refrigeration cycle circuit
100, switches to one of a heating operation cycle and a cooling
operation cycle. The four-way valve 32 is controlled by the
controller.
[0033] The outdoor heat exchanger 33 exchanges heat with air by
evaporating or condensing inflowing refrigerant, thereby cooling or
heating the air. For example, during cooling operation, the outdoor
heat exchanger 33 functions as a condenser, and causes inflowing
refrigerant to condense. Also, during heating operation, the
outdoor heat exchanger 33 functions as an evaporator, and causes
inflowing refrigerant to evaporate.
[0034] The expansion valve 34 is a pressure reducing device with a
variable opening degree. The expansion valve 34 is made up of an
electronically controlled expansion valve, for example. By causing
inflowing refrigerant to expand, the expansion valve 34 reduces
high pressure refrigerant to a low pressure. The expansion valve 34
then delivers the generated low pressure refrigerant.
[0035] The blower 35 is installed near the outdoor heat exchanger
33, and includes a blowing fan 35a and a fan motor 35b that rotates
the blowing fan 35a. By the rotation of the blowing fan 35a, the
blower 35 generates airflow that passes through the outdoor heat
exchanger 33. Subsequently, heat-exchanged air is exhausted
outdoors by the generated airflow. In Embodiment 1, a propeller fan
that sucks air from the side or back is used for the blowing fan
35a of the blower 35. The blower 35 also includes two blowing fans
35a. However, the configuration is not limited thereto, and the
blower 35 may also include a number of blowing fans 35a other than
two. For example, the blower 35 may also include one blowing fan
35a.
[0036] The refrigeration cycle circuit 100 is configured to include
the indoor heat exchanger 21, the compressor 31, the four-way valve
32, the outdoor heat exchanger 33, the expansion valve 34, flow
channels joining these members (a flow channel carrying refrigerant
and including a suction pipe 31a and a discharge pipe 31b, as well
as connecting pipes 11a and 11b), and the like.
[0037] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the outdoor machine 30 of
the refrigeration cycle device 10. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of
the outdoor machine 30 with part of the casing 40 removed from the
state illustrated in FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a cross-section along A-A in
FIG. 2. Note that the XY plane in the drawings is a horizontal
plane, while the direction of the Z axis in the drawings is a
vertical direction. As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the outdoor
machine 30 includes the above respective members (such as the
compressor 31, the four-way valve 32, the outdoor heat exchanger
33, and the blower 35), as well as a casing 40 that houses these
respective members.
[0038] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the casing 40 is a member that
configures the outer contour of the outdoor machine 30. The casing
40 includes a top panel 41, a side panel 42, and front panels 43
and 44. The top panel 41, the side panel 42, and the front panels
43 and 44 are formed by sheet-metal working, for example. Note that
the top panel 41, the side panel 42, and the front panels 43 and 44
are preferably made up of a material with excellent fire
resistance. The top panel 41 configures the top face (the face on
the +Z side) of the casing 40.
[0039] The side panel 42 is formed so that an XY cross-section
thereof has an L-shape. The side panel 42 configures the side face
(the face on the +X side) and part of the back face (the face on
the +Y side) of the casing 40. Introduction holes 45 for
introducing outside air are formed in the side panel 42.
[0040] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the introduction holes 45 are made
up of multiple rectangular holes. Specifically, the cross-sectional
shape of each introduction hole 45 is a rectangle with the longer
direction in the Y axis direction. The length L1 in the shorter
direction of the introduction holes 45 (the length in the Z axis
direction) is predetermined on the basis of the quenching distance
of the refrigerant. Herein, the quenching distance is the dimension
of a gap through which a flame is unable to propagate (the flame is
extinguished). At this gap or less, the flame becomes unable to
propagate. In other words, the flame becomes unable to pass
through. This quenching distance differs according to the type of
refrigerant. In Embodiment 1, the HFC refrigerant R32 is used for
the refrigerant. The quenching distance of R32 is 6 mm
Consequently, the introduction holes 45 are formed so that the
length L1 in the shorter direction becomes 6 mm or less.
Specifically, the length L1 in the shorter direction of the
introduction holes 45 is set to 5.5 mm, for example. However, the
configuration is not limited thereto, and the length L1 of the
introduction holes 45 may be a dimension other than 5.5 mm insofar
as the length is 6 mm or less.
[0041] In addition, the introduction holes 45 are plurally formed
at equal intervals along the Z axis direction. The number of
introduction holes 45 is 10, for example. However, the number of
holes is not limited thereto, and may also be a number other than
10. However, if there are too few holes, the total cross-sectional
area of the introduction holes 45 becomes too small, the
blow-through resistance increases, and air circulates less
smoothly. Consequently, it is desirable to form approximately 10
holes, enough to enable air to circulate smoothly. Note that the
introduction holes 45 are formed at a position higher than the
blow-through hole 51 formed in the partition plate 50 discussed
later.
[0042] Returning to FIG. 2, the front panel 43 is a plate-like
member made of metal, and configures the front face (the face in
the -Y direction) of the casing 40. Blow-out openings 46 for air
blown out from the blower 35 are formed in the front panel 43. The
blow-out openings 46 are formed in an approximately circular shape.
Also, two blow-out openings 46 are formed, in correspondence with
the installed number of blowing fans 35a of the blower 35. Fan
guards 47 having a mesh part for ensuring safety while the blowing
fans 35a are operating are attached to the blow-out openings
46.
[0043] Also, on the inner sides of each blow-out opening 46 of the
front panel 43, a tubular bell mouth 48 is formed, as illustrated
in FIG. 4. The bell mouth 48 is integrally formed with the front
panel 43. The outer circumferential face of the bell mouth 48 is
formed in a curved face. As a result of this bell mouth 48 being
formed, the flow of air blown from the blowing fans 35a of the
blower 35 is stabilized.
[0044] The front panel 44 is formed so that an XY cross-section
thereof has an L-shape, and configures the front face (the face on
the -Y side) and part of the side face (the face on the +X side) of
the casing 40. Note that these panels discussed above (such as the
top panel 41, the side panel 42, and the front panels 43 and 44)
may be configured to be further disassembled, or several of these
panels discussed above may be integrally formed.
[0045] Also, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the outdoor machine 30
includes a partition plate 50 (partition) that partitions the
interior of the casing 40 into two spaces. The partition plate 50
is formed extending in the vertical direction (+Z direction) from
the floor of the casing 40. By this partition plate 50, the
interior of the casing 40 is demarcated into a machine chamber M
(first chamber) housing members such as the compressor 31 and
electronic components for controlling the refrigeration cycle
circuit 100, and a blowing chamber F (second chamber) housing
members such as the blower 35. The machine chamber M is formed on
the +X side (the right side from a front view) of the casing 40,
while the blowing chamber F is formed on the -X side (the left side
from a front view) of the casing 40 interior. The partition plate
50 is for preventing the intrusion of rainwater due to rainy
weather and the like into the machine chamber M via the blowing
chamber F. On the bottom (the edge on the -Z side) of the partition
plate 50, blow-through holes 51 connecting from the machine chamber
M to the blowing chamber F are formed. The blow-through holes 51
are formed at a position lower than the introduction holes 45 of
the casing 40.
[0046] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the blow-through holes 51 are made
up of multiple rectangular holes. Specifically, the cross-sectional
shape of each blow-through hole 51 is a rectangle with the longer
direction in the Y axis direction. The length L2 in the shorter
direction of the blow-through holes 51 (the length in the Z axis
direction) is predetermined on the basis of the quenching distance
of the refrigerant. In Embodiment 1, since the HFC refrigerant R32
is used for the refrigerant, the quenching distance of R32 is 6 mm
Consequently, the blow-through holes 51 are formed so that the
length L2 in the shorter direction becomes 6 mm or less.
Specifically, the length L2 in the shorter direction of the
blow-through holes 51 is set to 5.5 mm, for example. However, the
configuration is not limited thereto, and the length L2 of the
blow-through holes 51 may be a dimension other than 5.5 mm insofar
as the length is 6 mm or less.
[0047] In addition, the blow-through holes 51 are plurally formed
at equal intervals along the Z axis direction. The number of
blow-through holes 51 is 10, for example. However, the number of
holes is not limited thereto, and may also be a number other than
10. However, if there are too few holes, the total cross-sectional
area of the blow-through holes 51 becomes too small, the
blow-through resistance increases, and air circulates less
smoothly. Consequently, it is desirable to form approximately 10
holes, enough to enable air to circulate smoothly.
[0048] Also, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the blow-through holes 51
are formed to be covered by the bell mouth 48 and not exposed to
the outside from the blow-out openings 46.
[0049] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the compressor 31 is disposed
inside the machine chamber M. The compressor 31 is disposed on the
floor of the machine chamber M via anti-vibration rubber or the
like, for example. The compressor 31 is a scroll compressor that
includes a fixed spiral, and a movable spiral that revolves around
the fixed spiral. This revolving decreases the volume of the
compression chamber, and compresses the refrigerant.
[0050] Note that the compressor 31 is not limited such a scroll
compressor. The compressor 31 may also be a rotary compressor in
which a circular piston eccentrically rotates the internal space of
a cylindrical cylinder, thereby decreasing the volume of the
compression chamber formed between the inner circumferential face
of the cylinder and the outer circumferential face of the piston,
and compressing the refrigerant. Additionally, a compressor of a
type other than a scroll compressor and a rotary compressor is also
acceptable.
[0051] Also, on the top side (+Z side) of the compressor 31
disposed on the floor of the machine chamber M, the four-way valve
32 and a refrigerant pipe group 36 are disposed. Herein, the
refrigerant pipe group 36 is conducted to include members such as a
refrigerant pipe connecting the connecting pipe 11a and the
four-way valve 32, as well as the suction pipe 31a and discharge
pipe 31b connected to the compressor 31, for example.
[0052] In the top part (the portion on the +Z side) of the machine
chamber M, there is disposed an electronic component box 61 housing
multiple electronic components constituting the controller (such as
a smoothing capacitor, for example), and a circuit board on which
these electronic components are mounted, and the like. The
electronic component box 61 is formed at a position higher than the
introduction holes 45 of the casing 40, in order to prevent the
intrusion of rainwater and the like. Specifically, the electronic
component box 61 is disposed so that the height of the bottom edge
61a (the edge on the -Z side) becomes the same height as the height
of the top edge 45a of the introduction holes 45 (the top edge of
the uppermost introduction hole 45 among the multiple introduction
holes 45).
[0053] The electronic component box 61 is a case formed in an
approximately cuboid shape. A ventilation hole 62 is formed on the
wall face on the +X side of the electronic component box 61. Also,
as illustrated in FIG. 7, a ventilation hole 63 is also formed on
the wall face on the -X side of the electronic component box 61.
The ventilation hole 62 is used as an air inlet for cooling the
electronic components, while the ventilation hole 63 is used as an
air outlet.
[0054] In addition, blow-through holes 52 are formed on the top
part (the edge on the +Z side) of the partition plate 50. The
blow-through holes 52 are formed facing opposite the ventilation
hole 63 of the electronic component box 61. Air flowing out from
the ventilation hole 63 of the electronic component box 61 passes
through these blow-through holes 52. Similarly to the blow-through
holes 51 formed on the bottom part, the blow-through holes 52 are
made up of multiple rectangular holes. Specifically, the
cross-sectional shape of each blow-through hole 52 is a rectangle
with the longer direction in the Y axis direction. Also, similarly
to the blow-through holes 51, the length in the shorter direction
of the blow-through holes 52 is also predetermined on the basis of
the quenching distance of the refrigerant. The blow-through holes
52 are plurally formed at equal intervals along the Z axis
direction. The number of blow-through holes 52 is 10, for example.
However, the number of holes is not limited thereto, and may also
be a number other than 10.
[0055] Returning to FIG. 3, in the blowing chamber F, members such
as the outdoor heat exchanger 33 and the blower 35 are disposed.
The two blowing fans 35a of the blower 35 are disposed along the Z
axis direction. A fan motor 35b is attached to the back face of
each blowing fan 35a. The fan motors 35b are supported by a fan
motor support plate 35c. The fan motor support plate 35c is
provided extending in the vertical direction (+Z direction) from
the floor of the casing 40. In addition, the outdoor heat exchanger
33 is disposed so as to cover the blower 35. Specifically, the
outdoor heat exchanger 33 is formed so that an XY cross-section
thereof has an L-shape, and is disposed so as to cover the back
face (the face on the +Y side) and a side face (the side on the -X
side) of the blower 35.
[0056] The controller is made up of an indoor machine control
device of the indoor machine 20 and an outdoor machine control
device of the outdoor machine 30, for example, and controls the
operation of the refrigeration cycle device 10. The controller
controls the rotation of the blowing fans 22a and 35a by applying a
voltage according to the number of revolutions of the blowing fans
22a and 35a of the blowers 22 and 35, for example. The outdoor
machine control device of the outdoor machine 30 is configured to
include the electronic components housed in the electronic
component box 61 discussed above.
[0057] The refrigerant flow channel of the indoor machine 20 and
the refrigerant flow channel of the outdoor machine 30 are
connected by the two connecting pipes 11a and 11b, as illustrated
in FIG. 1. The connecting pipes 11a and 11b are connected to the
respective flow channels of the indoor machine 20 and the outdoor
machine 30 by flare nuts or the like, for example. Consequently,
the refrigeration cycle circuit 100 is configured into a circuit
that is sealed from the outside.
[0058] The refrigeration cycle device 10 configured as discussed
above provides air conditioning for an air-conditioned room by
conducting cooling operation, dehumidifying operation, heating
operation, blowing operation, and the like. Blowing operation is
operation that supplies air using the blower 22 only, without
operating the refrigeration cycle of the refrigeration cycle device
10. Cooling operation, dehumidifying operation, and heating
operation are operations that supply cool air and warm air using
the blower 22 while also operating the refrigeration cycle. The
operation of the refrigeration cycle is the same for cooling
operation and dehumidifying operation. Hereinafter, operations of
the refrigeration cycle will be described using FIG. 1. The solid
arrows in FIG. 1 indicate the flow of refrigerant during cooling
operation and dehumidifying operation. Also, the dashed arrows in
FIG. 1 indicate the flow of refrigerant during heating
operation.
[0059] In the case of cooling operation, the four-way valve 32 is
switched to deliver refrigerant from the compressor 31 to the
outdoor heat exchanger 33. Consequently, the refrigerant flows as
indicated by the solid arrows in FIG. 1. In this case, the outdoor
heat exchanger 33 functions as a condenser, while the indoor heat
exchanger 21 functions as an evaporator.
[0060] First, when refrigerant flows into the compressor 31, the
inflowing refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 31. As a
result, the pressure and the specific enthalpy of the refrigerant
rises, and the refrigerant changes to high temperature and high
pressure gas refrigerant and is sent out from the compressor 31.
The gas refrigerant sent out from the compressor 31 passes through
the discharge pipe 31b and the four-way valve 32, and flows into
the outdoor heat exchanger 33.
[0061] When the gas refrigerant flows into the outdoor heat
exchanger 33, the refrigerant condenses due to the exchange of heat
with external air (outside air) supplied by the blower 35.
Consequently, the specific enthalpy of the refrigerant falls, while
the pressure remains constant. As a result, the gas refrigerant
changes to low temperature and high pressure liquid refrigerant.
This liquid refrigerant is then sent out from the outdoor heat
exchanger 33.
[0062] When the liquid refrigerant flows into the expansion valve
34, the liquid refrigerant expands due to the expansion valve 34.
Subsequently, the liquid refrigerant is depressurized while the
specific enthalpy remains constant, and the refrigerant changes to
a low pressure state. At this point, the refrigerant becomes
two-phase gas-liquid refrigerant in which gas refrigerant and
liquid refrigerant are intermixed. This two-phase gas-liquid
refrigerant is then sent out from the expansion valve 34.
[0063] The two-phase gas-liquid refrigerant sent out from the
expansion valve 34 passes through the connecting pipe 11b, and
flows into the refrigerant flow channel of the indoor machine 20.
Subsequently, the refrigerant flows into the indoor heat exchanger
21 of the indoor machine 20.
[0064] When the two-phase gas-liquid refrigerant flows into the
indoor heat exchanger 21, the refrigerant evaporates due to the
exchange of heat with the indoor air of the air-conditioned room
supplied by the blower 22. Consequently, the specific enthalpy of
the refrigerant rises, while the pressure remains constant. As a
result, the refrigerant changes to high temperature and low
pressure gas refrigerant in a heated state. Additionally, the
heat-exchanged air is supplied to the room, and thus the indoor air
is cooled. As a result, the room temperature of the air-conditioned
room falls.
[0065] The gas refrigerant in a heated state sent out from the
indoor heat exchanger 21 passes through the connecting pipe 11a,
and flows into the refrigerant flow channel of the outdoor machine
30. The refrigerant then flows into the compressor 31 again via the
four-way valve 32 and the suction pipe 31a of the outdoor machine
30. Thereafter, the above refrigeration cycle is repeated. Note
that the refrigeration cycle for dehumidifying operation is similar
to the above refrigeration cycle for cooling operation.
[0066] Next, in the case of heating operation, the four-way valve
32 is switched to deliver refrigerant from the compressor 31 to the
indoor heat exchanger 21. Consequently, the refrigerant flows as
indicated by the dashed arrows in FIG. 1. In this case, the outdoor
heat exchanger 33 functions as an evaporator, while the indoor heat
exchanger 21 functions as a condenser.
[0067] The gas refrigerant sent out from the compressor 31 passes
through the discharge pipe 31b and the four-way valve 32, and flows
out from the outdoor heat exchanger 30. Subsequently, the
refrigerant passes through the connecting pipe 11a and flows into
the indoor heat exchanger 21.
[0068] When the gas refrigerant flows into the indoor heat
exchanger 21, the refrigerant condenses due to the exchange of heat
with the indoor air of the air-conditioned room supplied by the
blower 22. Consequently, the specific enthalpy of the refrigerant
falls, while the pressure remains constant. As a result, the gas
refrigerant changes to low temperature and high pressure liquid
refrigerant in a supercooled state. Additionally, the
heat-exchanged air is supplied to the room, and thus the indoor air
is warmed. As a result, the room temperature of the air-conditioned
room rises.
[0069] The liquid refrigerant in a supercooled state sent out from
the indoor heat exchanger 21 passes through the connecting pipe
11b, and flows into the refrigerant flow channel of the outdoor
machine 30. Subsequently, the refrigerant flows into the expansion
valve 34 of the outdoor machine 30.
[0070] When the liquid refrigerant flows into the expansion valve
34, the liquid refrigerant expands due to the expansion valve 34.
Subsequently, the liquid refrigerant is depressurized while the
specific enthalpy remains constant, and the refrigerant changes to
a low temperature and low pressure state. At this point, the
refrigerant becomes two-phase gas-liquid refrigerant in which gas
refrigerant and liquid refrigerant are intermixed. This two-phase
gas-liquid refrigerant is then sent out from the expansion valve
34. Subsequently, the refrigerant flows into the expansion valve 34
of the outdoor machine 30.
[0071] When the two-phase gas-liquid refrigerant flows into the
outdoor heat exchanger 33, the two-phase gas-liquid refrigerant
condenses due to the exchange of heat with external air (outside
air) supplied by the blower 35. Consequently, the specific enthalpy
of the refrigerant rises, while the pressure remains constant. As a
result, the two-phase gas-liquid refrigerant changes to high
temperature and low pressure gas refrigerant in a heated state.
This gas refrigerant is then sent out from the outdoor heat
exchanger 33.
[0072] The gas refrigerant in a heated state sent out from the
outdoor heat exchanger 33 flows into the compressor 31 again via
the four-way valve 32 and the suction pipe 31a. Thereafter, the
above refrigeration cycle is repeated.
[0073] In the refrigeration cycle device 10 configured as discussed
above, if an instruction to start operation such as cooling
operation or heating operation is transmitted from a user to the
controller of the refrigeration cycle device 10, before operating
the refrigeration cycle, the controller first causes the blowing
fans 35a of the blower 35 of the outdoor machine 30 to rotate for a
predetermined time. The time to rotate the blowing fans 35a is
stored in advance in memory of the controller. In Embodiment 1, the
set time to rotate the blowing fans 35a is one minute.
[0074] Since the blowing fans 35a are propeller fans, when the
blowing fans 35a rotate, air is suctioned from the back face and
lateral sides of the blowing fans 35a. Due to the suction of the
blowing fans 35a, outside air of the outdoor machine 30 is
introduced inside the machine chamber M from the introduction holes
45 of the casing 40, as indicated by the arrow W1 in FIG. 7.
[0075] Part of the air introduced into the machine chamber M moves
upward (+Z direction) inside the machine chamber M, and flows into
the electronic component box 61 from the ventilation hole 62, as
indicated by the arrow W2. Air flowing into the electronic
component box 61 passes through the interior of the electronic
component box 61, as indicated by the arrow W3. At this point, if
current is flowing and producing heat in the electronic components
and circuit board housed in the electronic component box 61, the
airflow passing through the interior of the electronic component
box 61 functions as cooling air that cools the circuit board that
is producing heat. Air passing through the interior of the
electronic component box 61 flows out from the ventilation hole 63.
Subsequently, the air flowing out from the ventilation hole 63
flows into the blowing chamber F via the blow-through holes 52 of
the partition plate 50, as indicated by the arrow W4.
[0076] At this point, depending on the location of refrigerant
leakage from the refrigeration cycle circuit 100, combustible
refrigerant may in some cases accumulate in the electronic
component box 61. In this case, the accumulated combustible
refrigerant is exhausted from the ventilation hole 63 together with
the air flowing into the electronic component box 61, and
subsequently flows into the blowing chamber F via the blow-through
holes 52 of the partition plate 50. In other words, the airflow
passing through the blow-through holes 52 functions as an airflow
for exhausting combustible refrigerant. Subsequently, the air
flowing into the blowing chamber F is blown out from the blow-out
openings 46 by the blowing fans 35a, as indicated by the arrows W8
and W9. The exhausted combustible refrigerant dissipates outdoors
and the refrigerant concentration goes outside the combustible
range, and for this reason safety may be assured.
[0077] Additionally, part of the air introduced into the machine
chamber M also moves downward (-Z direction) inside the machine
chamber M, as indicated by the arrow W5. If part of the air moves
downward inside the machine chamber M, the air moves vertically
down the length of the interior of the machine chamber M.
Subsequently, the air passes through the vicinity of the compressor
31 and the like, as indicated by the arrow W6. Air passing through
the vicinity of the compressor 31 and the like flows into the
blowing chamber F via the blow-through holes 51 of the partition
plate 50, as indicated by the arrow W7.
[0078] At this point, if combustible refrigerant is leaking from
the refrigeration cycle circuit 100 (for example, the compressor 31
or the connecting pipes 11a and 11b connected to the compressor
31), the combustible refrigerant, being denser than air,
accumulates at the floor of the machine chamber M. In this case,
the accumulated combustible refrigerant converges with the air
indicated by the arrows W5 and W6 moving downward inside the
machine chamber M. Subsequently, the combustible refrigerant
accumulated at the floor flows together with the air into the
blowing chamber F via the blow-through holes 51 of the partition
plate 50, as indicated by the arrow W7. In other words, the airflow
passing through the blow-through holes 51 functions as an airflow
for exhausting combustible refrigerant. Subsequently, the air
flowing into the blowing chamber F is blown out from the blow-out
openings 46 by the blowing fans 35a, as indicated by the arrows W8
and W9. The exhausted combustible refrigerant dissipates outdoors
and the refrigerant concentration goes outside the combustible
range, and for this reason safety may be assured.
[0079] Note that the one minute set as the time to rotate the
blowing fans 35a before operating the refrigeration cycle is in
Embodiment 1 a conceivable time enabling combustible refrigerant
accumulated in the machine chamber M or the electronic component
box 61 to be completely exhausted. However, since this set time
depends on factors such as the volume and shape of the machine
chamber M and the electronic component box 61, the set time must be
modified appropriately according to the configuration and model of
the outdoor machine 30.
[0080] After rotating the blowing fans 35a of the blower 35 for a
predetermined time while in a state of not operating the
refrigeration cycle, the controller of the refrigeration cycle
device 10 switches the four-way valve 32 of the outdoor machine 30
according to the instructed operating mode (such as heating
operation, cooling operation, or dehumidifying operation, for
example). Subsequently, the refrigerant compressing operation of
the compressor 31 is initiated by causing the revolving spiral of
the compressor 31 to revolve. Consequently, refrigerant is
circulated through the refrigeration cycle circuit 100. As a
result, the instructed operating mode is initiated.
[0081] Note that even after the instructed operating mode is
initiated, the suction of the blowing fans 35a continues to cause
outside air of the outdoor machine 30 to be introduced into the
machine chamber M from the introduction holes 45 of the casing 40.
Part of the air introduced into the machine chamber M moves upward
inside the machine chamber M and flows into the electronic
component box 61, thereby cooling the electronic components and
circuit board housed in the electronic component box 61. Also, air
introduced into the machine chamber M moves downward inside the
machine chamber M and passes through the vicinity of the compressor
31 and the like, thereby moderating temperature rises in the
operating compressor 31. Consequently, the operating performance of
the compressor 31 is increased.
[0082] As described above, in the refrigeration cycle device 10
according to Embodiment 1, blow-through holes 51 are formed in the
bottom part of the partition plate 50. For this reason, air
introduced from the introduction holes 45 formed on the side panel
42 of the casing 40 passes through these blow-through holes 51, and
is sent outside of the casing 40 by the blower 35. Consequently,
even in a case in which refrigerant leaks out from the
refrigeration cycle circuit 100 inside the machine chamber M and
accumulates at the floor of the machine chamber M, combustible
refrigerant is exhausted outside the casing 40 together with the
introduced outside air.
[0083] For example, in a case in which, as with a refrigeration
cycle device 10 of the related art, the blow-through holes 51 are
not formed in the bottom part of the partition plate 50 and only
the blow-through holes 52 are formed in the top part of the
partition plate 50, if refrigerant leaks out from the refrigeration
cycle circuit 100 inside the machine chamber M, the combustible
refrigerant, being denser than air, accumulates at the floor of the
machine chamber M. Since the refrigerant accumulated at the floor
must move upward (the direction opposing gravity) to pass through
the blow-through holes 52 in the upper part by suction based on the
rotation of the blowing fans 35a of the blower 35, exhausting all
accumulated refrigerant from the machine chamber M is difficult.
Also, in the case in which the electronic component box 61 is
disposed in the upper part of the machine chamber M, the electronic
components housed in the electronic component box 61 may
potentially become an ignition source if powered on. For this
reason, there is a risk that refrigerant moving upward may pass
through near such a potential ignition source.
[0084] In contrast, in the refrigeration cycle device 10 according
to Embodiment 1, since the blow-through holes 51 are formed in the
bottom part of the partition plate 50, refrigerant accumulated at
the floor of the machine chamber M becomes easily exhausted outside
the casing 40 by the outside air introduced from the introduction
holes 45 formed in the side panel 42 of the casing 40.
Consequently, the safety of the refrigeration cycle device 10 may
be increased.
[0085] Also, in the refrigeration cycle device 10 according to
Embodiment 1, since the blow-through holes 51 are formed in the
bottom part of the partition plate 50, even if the refrigeration
cycle device 10 is stopped, refrigerant may be exhausted from the
blow-out openings 46 of the blowing chamber F on the basis of
natural convection. Specifically, combustible refrigerant
accumulated at the floor of the machine chamber M passes through
the blow-through holes 51 formed in the bottom part over time by
natural convection. It is then naturally exhausted from the
blow-out openings 46 of the blowing chamber F. Consequently, in
Embodiment 1, leaked combustible refrigerant becomes less likely to
accumulate at the floor of the machine chamber M even while the
refrigeration cycle device 10 is stopped, and the safety of the
refrigeration cycle device 10 may be further increased.
[0086] Also, in Embodiment 1, the introduction holes 45 for
introducing outside air are formed at a position higher than the
blow-through holes 51. For this reason, outside air introduced from
the introduction holes 45 flows vertically down the length of the
interior of the machine chamber M from a high position to a low
position, following gravity. Consequently, combustible refrigerant
accumulated at the floor of the machine chamber M may be more
smoothly exhausted outside the casing 40.
[0087] Also, in Embodiment 1, the introduction holes 45 are formed
at a position lower than the electronic component box 61. For this
reason, rainwater intruding from the introduction holes 45 is less
likely to intrude into the electronic component box 61. As a
result, failures of the electronic components housed in the
electronic component box 61 may be prevented.
[0088] Also, in Embodiment 1, before starting operation of the
refrigeration cycle, the blowing fans 35a of the blower 35 are
rotated for a predetermined time. For this reason, even in a case
in which combustible refrigerant has accumulated at the floor of
the machine chamber M (around the compressor 31), the combustible
refrigerant may be exhausted outside the casing 40 before starting
operation of the refrigeration cycle. Consequently, combustible
refrigerant may be removed from around the compressor 31 before the
electrical components and electronic components included in the
compressor 31 are powered on, and the safety of the refrigeration
cycle device 10 may be increased.
[0089] Also, in Embodiment 1, part of the air introduced into the
machine chamber M moves upward (+Z direction) inside the machine
chamber M, and flows into the electronic component box 61. For this
reason, the electronic components and circuit board inside the
electronic component box 61 may be cooled.
[0090] Also, in Embodiment 1, part of the air introduced into the
machine chamber M moves downward (-Z direction) inside the machine
chamber M, and passes through the vicinity of the compressor 31 and
the like. For this reason, in the case in which the refrigeration
cycle is operating, temperature rises in the operating compressor
31 may be moderated. Consequently, decreases in the operating
performance of the compressor 31 may be moderated.
[0091] In Embodiment 1, part of the air introduced into the machine
chamber M moves upward (+Z direction) inside the machine chamber M,
and passes through the electronic component box 61. Similarly, part
of the air introduced into the machine chamber M moves downward (-Z
direction) inside the machine chamber M, and passes through the
vicinity of the compressor 31 and the like. Consequently, cooling
of the electronic components and circuit board inside the
electronic component box 61 and moderation of temperature rises in
the compressor 31 may be conducted at the same time.
[0092] Also, in Embodiment 1, the blow-through holes 51 formed in
the bottom part of the partition plate 50 are covered by the bell
mouth 48 so as to not be exposed from the blow-out openings 46 of
the casing 40. Consequently, the intrusion of rainwater due to
rainy weather and the like into the machine chamber M may be
prevented. As a result, the electronic components in the electronic
component box 61 as well as the compressor 31 disposed in the
machine chamber M may be protected, and failures thereof may be
prevented.
[0093] Also, in Embodiment 1, the length L2 in the shorter
direction of the blow-through holes 51 of the partition plate 50 is
predetermined on the basis of the quenching distance of the
refrigerant. For this reason, even in the remote chance that
combustible refrigerant accumulated inside the machine chamber M
does ignite, the refrigerant flame is unable to pass through the
blow-through holes 51, and thus the refrigerant flame does not leak
outside the machine chamber M, nor does the refrigerant flame leak
outside the casing 40. Also, after the combustible refrigerant
acting as the source of the ignition fully burns out, the flame is
naturally extinguished. Consequently, the safety of users of the
refrigeration cycle device 10 may be ensured, and the safety of the
refrigeration cycle device 10 may be increased.
[0094] Similarly, the length L1 in the shorter direction of the
introduction holes 45 in the side panel 42 of the casing 40 is also
predetermined on the basis of the quenching distance of the
refrigerant. For this reason, even in the remote chance that
combustible refrigerant accumulated inside the machine chamber M
does ignite, the refrigerant flame is unable to pass through the
introduction holes 45, and thus the refrigerant flame does not leak
outside the casing 40. Consequently, the safety of users of the
refrigeration cycle device 10 may be ensured, and the safety of the
refrigeration cycle device 10 may be increased.
[0095] The foregoing thus describes Embodiment 1 of the present
disclosure, but the present disclosure is not limited to the above
Embodiment 1.
[0096] For example, in the refrigeration cycle device 10 according
to the above Embodiment 1, the HFC refrigerant R32
(CH.sub.2F.sub.2; difluoromethane) is used as the refrigerant.
However, the refrigerant is not limited thereto. For example, the
refrigerant may an HFC refrigerant similar to R32, the weakly
combustible refrigerant HFO1234yf (CF.sub.3CF.dbd.CH.sub.2;
tetrafluoropropene), or HFO1234ze (CF.sub.3CH.dbd.CHF). The
refrigerant may also be a strongly combustible refrigerant such as
R290 (propane). Also, the refrigerant may also be a mixed
refrigerant of the above. Even if the refrigerant is strongly
combustible, the refrigeration cycle device 10 according to the
above Embodiment 1 is able to effectively exhibit safety. Note that
in the present disclosure, combustible refrigerants include all
refrigerants having a possibility of combustion, from weakly
combustible refrigerants to strongly combustible refrigerants.
Embodiment 2
[0097] Also, in the above Embodiment 1, the introduction holes 45
for introducing outside air are formed so that the height of the
top edge 45a becomes the same height as the height of the bottom
edge 61a of the electronic component box 61, as illustrated in FIG.
7. However, the configuration is not limited thereto. For example,
as illustrated in FIG. 9, the introduction holes 45 may also be
formed at a position higher than the blow-through holes 51 formed
in the partition plate 50, and formed at a position lower than the
electronic component box 61. However, with higher positions of the
introduction holes 45, the outside air introduced from the
introduction holes 45 more easily flows vertically down the length
of the interior of the machine chamber M from a high position to a
low position, following gravity. Consequently, in order to smoothly
exhaust combustible refrigerant, the introduction holes 45 are
preferably formed at as high a position as possible. Furthermore,
in order to prevent the intrusion of rainwater into the electronic
component box 61, the introduction holes 45 are preferably formed
at a position lower than the electronic component box 61.
Specifically, it is most preferable for the height of the top edge
45a of the introduction holes 45 to be the same height as the
height of the bottom edge 61a of the electronic component box 61,
so that the introduction holes 45 are positioned directly below the
electronic component box 61, as illustrated in FIG. 7.
[0098] Also, in the above Embodiment 1, the blow-through holes 51
connecting from the machine chamber M to the blowing chamber F are
formed in the bottom part of the partition plate 50, as illustrated
in FIG. 7. Specifically, the blow-through holes 51 are formed near
the bottom edge of the partition plate 50. In the present
disclosure, the bottom part of the partition plate 50 indicates the
side below the middle position of the partition plate 50 in the Z
axis direction. Consequently, if the blow-through holes 51 are
positioned below the middle position of the partition plate 50, the
blow-through holes 51 may also be formed at a position other than
the position illustrated in FIG. 7. However, from the perspective
of the ease of exhaustion for dense combustible refrigerant, the
position where the blow-through holes 51 are formed is preferably
as low a position as possible. However, if the position where the
blow-through holes 51 are formed is at the bottommost edge of the
partition plate 50, water accumulated in the blowing chamber F due
to rainy weather or the like becomes more likely to flow backward
into the machine chamber M. For this reason, it is most preferable
for the bottom edge of the blow-through holes 51 to be at a
position several centimeters (for example, 1 cm to 3 cm) higher
than the floor of the machine chamber M and blowing chamber F.
Embodiment 3
[0099] In the above Embodiment 1, the blow-through holes 51 of the
partition plate 50 are formed so that a YZ cross-section thereof
becomes a rectangular shape, as illustrated in FIG. 6. However, the
configuration is not limited thereto, and insofar as the shortest
dimension of the blow-through holes 51 is predetermined on the
basis of the quenching distance, the blow-through holes 51 may also
be formed with a cross-section in a shape other than a rectangle.
For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the blow-through holes 51
may also be formed so that a YZ cross-section thereof becomes a
circular hole shape. In this case, the diameter D1 of the circular
hole shape becomes 6 mm or less, on the basis of the quenching
distance of the R32 being used as the refrigerant.
Embodiment 4
[0100] As illustrated in FIG. 11, the blow-through holes 51 may
also be formed so that a YZ cross-section thereof becomes an
elliptical shape. In this case, the minor dimension L3 of the
elliptical shape becomes 6 mm or less, on the basis of the
quenching distance of the R32 being used as the refrigerant.
Additionally, the cross-section of the blow-through holes 51 may be
an oval shape, or a shape other than the above (rectangular shape,
circular shape, elliptical shape, oval shape).
[0101] Note that the cross-sectional shape of the blow-through
holes 51 is specifically described as not being limited to a
rectangular shape as indicated in the above Embodiment 1, the
cross-sectional shape of the introduction holes 45 formed in the
side panel 42 of the casing 40 is also similar. In the above
Embodiment 1, the introduction holes 45 are formed so that a YZ
cross-section thereof becomes a rectangular shape, as illustrated
in FIG. 5. However, the configuration is not limited thereto, and
insofar as the shortest dimension of the introduction holes 45 is
predetermined on the basis of the quenching distance, the
introduction holes 45 may also be formed with a cross-section in a
shape other than a rectangle. For example, the introduction holes
45 may also be formed so that a YZ cross-section thereof becomes a
circular hole shape. In this case, the diameter of the circular
hole shape becomes 6 mm or less, on the basis of the quenching
distance of the R32 used in the embodiments.
[0102] Additionally, the introduction holes 45 may also be formed
so that a YZ cross-section thereof becomes an elliptical shape. In
this case, the minor dimension of the elliptical shape becomes 6 mm
or less, on the basis of the quenching distance of the R32 used in
the embodiments. Additionally, the cross-section of the the
introduction holes 45 may be an oval shape, or a shape other than
the above (rectangular shape, circular shape, elliptical shape,
oval shape).
[0103] Note that since the quenching distance differs depending on
the type of refrigerant, it is necessary to modify the dimensions
of the introduction holes 45 and the blow-through holes 51 and 52
as appropriate, according to the refrigerant used in the
refrigeration cycle device 10.
Embodiment 5
[0104] As illustrated in FIG. 12, on the blow-through holes 51
formed in the partition plate 50, screens 71 formed to cover the
openings on the -X side (the openings on the side of the blowing
chamber F) may also be provided. The screens 71 cover the front
side (-X side), top side (+Z side), and lateral sides (+Y side and
-Y side) of the blow-through holes 51, for example. As a result of
these screens 71 being formed, the openings of the blow-through
holes 51 are substantially formed to face downward (-Z direction).
The screens 71 may be integrally formed with the partition plate
50, or separately formed and later attached to the partition plate
50. By forming these screens 71, rainwater due to rainy weather
flows downward along the screens 71, thereby preventing the
intrusion of rainwater from the blowing chamber F into the machine
chamber M. As a result, the electronic components in the electronic
component box 61 as well as the compressor 31 disposed in the
machine chamber M may be protected, and failures thereof may be
prevented.
Embodiment 6
[0105] Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 13, on the introduction
holes 45 formed in the side panel 42 of the casing 40, screens 72
formed to cover the openings on the +X side (the openings on the
side of the casing 40) may also be provided. The screens 72 cover
the front side (+X side), top side (+Z side), and lateral sides (+Y
side and -Y side) of the introduction holes 45, for example. As a
result of these screens 72 being formed, the openings of the
introduction holes 45 are substantially formed to face downward (-Z
direction). The screens 72 may be integrally formed with the side
panel 42, or separately formed and later attached to the side panel
42. By forming these screens 72, rainwater due to rainy weather
flows downward along the screens 72, thereby preventing the
intrusion of rainwater from the outer side of the casing 40. As a
result, the electronic components in the electronic component box
61 as well as the compressor 31 disposed in the machine chamber M
may be protected, and failures thereof may be prevented.
[0106] In addition, although Embodiments 1 to 6 describe an example
of using the refrigeration cycle device 10 in an air conditioner,
the refrigeration cycle device 10 is also applicable to other
equipment, such as the heat source machine of a water heater.
[0107] Various embodiments and alterations of the present
disclosure are possible without departing from the scope and spirit
of the present disclosure in the broad sense. The foregoing
embodiments are for the purpose of describing the present
disclosure, and do not limit the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0108] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No.
2012-200380 filed on Sep. 12, 2012, including specification,
claims, drawing, and abstract. The disclosure in the above Japanese
patent application is incorporated in entirety into the present
application by reference.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0109] A refrigeration cycle device of the present disclosure is
suitable for providing air conditioning.
* * * * *