JP3741140B2 - refrigerator - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a refrigerator with improved safety and improved cooling efficiency when a combustible refrigerant is used.

  In recent years, refrigerators are required to be further energy-saving from the viewpoint of protecting the global environment and to be improved in usability and storage.

  This type of conventional refrigerator has a condenser in the space formed by the top plate and the upper wall of the heat insulating wall for the purpose of increasing the volume in the cabinet that can be used effectively without increasing the external dimensions. A method has been adopted in which the compressor is disposed in a space formed by the top plate, the rear upper outer surface of the heat insulating wall, and the back plate in communication with the space (for example, see Patent Document 1).

  14 and 15 show a configuration of a conventional refrigerator described in Patent Document 1. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the refrigerator body 1 includes a top plate 2 having functions such as a cooking table and a work table, and a condenser 5 is provided in a space formed by the top plate 2 and the upper wall 4 of the heat insulating wall 3. Is arranged. A compressor 8 is disposed in a space communicating with this space and formed by the top plate 2, the rear upper outer surface 6 of the heat insulating wall 3, and the back plate 7 (hereinafter, the two spaces are combined to form a machine room). 9).

  An air intake port 11 for cooling the condenser 5 and the compressor 8 is provided at the front end of the machine room 9, that is, above the door 10, and as shown in FIG. An exhaust port 12 for discharging this air into the atmosphere is provided above. The air heated by the condenser 5 and the compressor 8 in the machine room 9 is lightened, and an airflow flowing from the intake port 11 to the exhaust port 12 is generated, and the condenser 5 and the compressor 8 are naturally cooled by this airflow. It is also possible to perform forced cooling by attaching a cooling fan at an appropriate position in the machine room 9.

  Further, in order to obtain the rising airflow, it is desirable that the exhaust port 12 be formed by appropriately projecting the machine chamber 9 from the upper portion of the compressor 8 and providing an opening on the upper surface of the projecting portion.

Since the machine room was placed in a part that was not used effectively in a conventional refrigerator, the part of the conventional machine room can be used as a refrigeration and freezing space, so it is effective without increasing the external dimensions. The volume in the warehouse that can be used in an effective manner can be increased.
Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 60-156378

  However, in the above-described conventional configuration, when a combustible refrigerant having a specific gravity greater than that of air is used as a refrigerant, when the combustible refrigerant leaks from a compressor or condenser that is at a higher pressure than the atmosphere during compressor operation, By providing the exhaust port above the condenser, it stays in the lower part of the machine room without diffusing into the atmosphere due to the difference in specific gravity with air, and the flammable refrigerant is generated by the ignition source in the machine room of the refrigerator. Since there is a possibility of ignition, there is a problem that it is dangerous.

  In addition, when luggage or the like is placed on the top of the refrigerator, the exhaust port is blocked, so the leaked combustible refrigerant does not diffuse and stays, increasing the danger and inhibiting the air flow in the machine room Therefore, the cooling of the compressor and the condenser is impaired, and there is a problem that the power consumption increases.

  The present invention solves the above-described conventional problems, and increases the internal volume of the lowermost storage chamber, improves safety when using a flammable refrigerant, and improves the efficiency of the compressor and the condenser. An object is to provide a refrigerator with reduced power consumption.

In order to solve the above-described conventional problems, a refrigerator body, a refrigeration cycle in which a compressor, a condenser, a decompressor, and an evaporator provided in the refrigerator body are sequentially provided, and an annular refrigerant flow path is configured by piping. A refrigeration cycle in which a flammable refrigerant having a higher specific gravity than air is sealed as a refrigerant, and the top surface of the refrigerator body is a first ceiling. A second top surface portion provided at a position lower than the first top surface portion, and the machine room is partitioned by a heat insulating wall with the second top surface portion as a bottom surface, and the compressor is disposed. Installed on the back wall of the compartment that covers the machine room, at a location located below the welded joint between the discharge pipe through which the refrigerant having a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure flows and the compressor. an opening for communicating the outside, the rear Those provided by shifting the front side from the back surface of the refrigerator main body to allow a gap.

As a result, when a flammable refrigerant having a specific gravity greater than that of air is used as the refrigerant, when the flammable refrigerant leaks from the compressor or condenser that is higher in pressure than the atmosphere during compressor operation, an opening is formed in the outer peripheral wall surface of the machine room. Therefore, the refrigerant leaked into the machine room due to the difference in specific gravity with air can be quickly released and diffused into the atmosphere without being retained.
Even when the back of the refrigerator outer box is pressed against the wall of a kitchen, etc., the opening on the back of the machine room cover is not blocked, so the leaked combustible refrigerant can be quickly released and diffused into the atmosphere from the opening. , Can improve safety.

The refrigerator of the present invention includes a refrigerator main body, a compressor provided in the refrigerator main body, a condenser, a decompressor, and an evaporator in order, and a refrigerating cycle in which an annular refrigerant flow path is configured by piping , A combustible refrigerant having a specific gravity higher than that of air as a refrigerant, and the top surface of the refrigerator body includes a first top surface portion and a machine room provided at an upper portion of the refrigerator main body. A second top surface portion provided at a position lower than the first top surface portion, and the machine room is partitioned by a heat insulating wall with the second top surface portion as a bottom surface, and the compressor is disposed. In the side wall surface or the back wall surface of the compartment covering the machine room, it is located below the first top surface portion and at least below the weld joint portion of the pipe through which the refrigerant having a pressure higher than the atmospheric pressure flows. And the first heaven The portion located above the part, in which an opening portion communicating with the machine room and the outside.

  As a result, when a flammable refrigerant having a specific gravity greater than that of air is used as a refrigerant, when the flammable refrigerant leaks from a compressor or condenser that is at a higher pressure than the atmosphere during compressor operation, an opening is formed in the back of the machine room. Therefore, the refrigerant leaked into the machine room due to the difference in specific gravity with air can be quickly released and diffused into the atmosphere without being retained.
  In addition, if at least one opening is provided above the first top surface and at least one opening is provided below the first top surface, the upward and downward air flow is promoted, and the leaked refrigerant is quickly released and diffused. Is done.

  In the refrigerator of the present invention, since the machine room is provided in the upper part of the refrigerator main body, the inner volume of the lowermost storage room can be increased, and the combustible from the compressor or the condenser that becomes a higher pressure than the atmosphere when the compressor is operated. When the refrigerant leaks, it can be quickly released and diffused into the atmosphere without causing the refrigerant to stay in the machine room, so that the safety when using a flammable refrigerant can be improved.

The invention according to claim 1 includes a refrigerator main body, a compressor, a condenser, a decompressor, and an evaporator provided in the refrigerator main body in order, and a refrigerating cycle in which an annular refrigerant flow path is configured by piping , A combustible refrigerant having a specific gravity greater than that of air as a refrigerant, and the top surface of the refrigerator main body is a first top surface portion. And a second top surface portion provided at a position lower than the first top surface portion, and the machine room is partitioned by a heat insulating wall with the second top surface portion as a bottom surface, and the compressor is disposed. In the back wall of the compartment covering the machine room , the machine room and the outside are located at positions below the welded joint between the discharge pipe through which the refrigerant having a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure flows and the compressor. the openings communicating, a gap on the back From the back of the refrigerator main body to cut those provided by shifting the front side.

As a result, when a flammable refrigerant having a specific gravity greater than that of air is used as a refrigerant, when the flammable refrigerant leaks from a compressor or condenser that is at a higher pressure than the atmosphere during compressor operation, an opening is formed in the back of the machine room. Therefore, the refrigerant leaked into the machine room due to the difference in specific gravity with air can be quickly released and diffused into the atmosphere without being retained.
In addition, the pipe welded joint that has the weakest rigidity among the pipes connected to the compressor that continuously receives large vibrations from the compressor that is the largest vibration source of the refrigerator should be damaged. Even in such a case, the flammable refrigerant having a specific gravity greater than the air leaked from the pipe having a pressure higher than the atmospheric pressure is promptly released from the opening located below the pipe weld joint, so that the refrigerant stays in the machine chamber. This can be prevented.
Even when the back of the refrigerator outer box is pressed against the wall of a kitchen, etc., the opening on the back of the machine room cover is not blocked, so the leaked combustible refrigerant can be quickly released and diffused into the atmosphere from the opening. , Can improve safety.

The invention according to claim 2 comprises a refrigerator main body, a compressor, a condenser, a decompressor, and an evaporator provided in the refrigerator main body in order, and a refrigerating cycle in which an annular refrigerant flow path is configured by piping, A combustible refrigerant having a specific gravity greater than that of air as a refrigerant, and the top surface of the refrigerator main body is a first top surface portion. And a second top surface portion provided at a position lower than the first top surface portion, and the machine room is partitioned by a heat insulating wall with the second top surface portion as a bottom surface, and the compressor is disposed. In the side wall surface or back wall surface of the compartment covering the machine room, the position is below the first top surface portion and at least below the weld joint portion of the pipe through which the refrigerant having a pressure higher than the atmospheric pressure flows. And the first heaven The portion located above the part, in which an opening portion communicating with the machine room and the outside.

  As a result, when a flammable refrigerant having a specific gravity greater than that of air is used as a refrigerant, when the flammable refrigerant leaks from a compressor or condenser that is at a higher pressure than the atmosphere during compressor operation, an opening is formed in the back of the machine room. Therefore, the refrigerant leaked into the machine room due to the difference in specific gravity with air can be quickly released and diffused into the atmosphere without being retained.
  In addition, the pipe welded joint that has the weakest rigidity among the pipes connected to the compressor that continuously receives large vibrations from the compressor that is the largest vibration source of the refrigerator should be damaged. Even in such a case, the flammable refrigerant having a specific gravity greater than the air leaked from the pipe having a pressure higher than the atmospheric pressure is promptly discharged from the opening located below the pipe weld joint, so that the refrigerant stays in the machine chamber. This can be prevented.
  In addition, if at least one opening is provided above the first top surface and at least one opening is provided below the first top surface, the upward and downward air flow is promoted, and the leaked refrigerant is quickly released and diffused. Is done.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the opening has an opening provided at a position located below the electrical contact of the device housed in the machine room, and the specific gravity is higher than air in the machine room. When a large flammable refrigerant leaks, the refrigerant does not stay near the electrical contacts of the equipment housed in the machine room, which is likely to be an ignition source, so that ignition and explosion of the refrigerant can be prevented.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the electrical contact of the device housed in the machine room is an electrical contact provided in the compressor.

  As a result, when a combustible refrigerant having a specific gravity greater than that of air leaks into the machine room, the refrigerant does not stay near the electrical contacts of the compressor housed inside the machine room, which is likely to be an ignition source. Ignition and explosion can be prevented.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a machine room fan for cooling the compressor is provided in the machine room, and an electrical contact of a device housed in the machine room is an electrical contact provided in the machine room fan. is there.

  As a result, when a flammable refrigerant having a specific gravity greater than that of air leaks into the machine room, the refrigerant does not stay near the electrical contacts of the machine room fan housed in the machine room. Can be prevented.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, an electric valve that controls a flow path of the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is provided in the machine room, and electrical contacts of devices housed in the machine room are provided in the electric valve. It is a thing.

  As a result, when a flammable refrigerant having a specific gravity greater than that of air leaks into the machine room, the refrigerant does not stay near the electric contacts of the electric valve housed in the machine room. Can be prevented.

The invention according to claim 7 is the one in which the condenser is separated from the compressor disposed on the top surface and disposed in the lower part of the refrigerator main body, and the high-pressure piping is dispersed. By disposing high-pressure pipes that are highly likely to be distributed, the number of high-pressure pipes near the electrical components can be reduced, and safety can be further improved.
The invention according to claim 8 is the one in which the compressor is arranged so that the top surface portion of the compressor is higher than the first top surface portion. The volume of the part can be minimized.

According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, an inclined portion is provided in a portion extending over the upper surface portion and the rear surface portion of the section covering the machine room, and an opening portion is provided in the inclined portion, whereby the rear surface of the refrigerator outer box is attached to a wall surface of a kitchen or the like. Even if the unit is pressed against or placed on the top of the refrigerator, the opening of the oblique part is not blocked, so the leaked flammable refrigerant can be quickly released and diffused into the atmosphere from the opening. Can be improved. In addition, the air flow in the machine room can be kept to a minimum even under the usage conditions of the refrigerator where luggage is placed on the top of the refrigerator, resulting in a significant decrease in the cooling efficiency of the compressor and condenser. Therefore, an increase in power consumption of the refrigerator can be suppressed.

  In the invention according to claim 10, the back of the compartment covering the machine room is inclined with respect to the back of the refrigerator body, so that the machine room cover can be installed even when the back of the refrigerator is pressed against a wall of a kitchen or the like. The opening of the flat surface of the back surface is not blocked, and the area of the back surface can be enlarged, so the opening area of the opening can be increased, and the leaked combustible refrigerant can be quickly released and diffused into the atmosphere from the opening. Can be further improved. In addition, since the amount of cooling air in the machine room is increased by increasing the opening area of the opening, the cooling efficiency of the compressor and the condenser is improved, and the power consumption of the refrigerator can be reduced. In addition, by deciding the inclination angle of the back of the machine room cover according to the shape of the compressor, the compressor can be installed maximally shifted to the back of the refrigerator outer box, and the contents of the uppermost storage room The product can be increased.

  The invention according to claim 11 is that the side part and the back part of the compartment covering the machine room are chamfered so that the inclined part of the machine room cover can be installed even when the back of the refrigerator is pressed against the wall of a kitchen or the like. Since the opening is not blocked, the leaked combustible refrigerant can be quickly released and diffused into the atmosphere from the opening, and safety can be improved. Moreover, since the obstruction of the air flow in the machine room can be minimized even under the use conditions of the refrigerator as described above, the cooling efficiency of the compressor and the condenser does not significantly decrease, and the power consumption of the refrigerator An increase in the amount can be suppressed.

  The invention according to claim 12 can reduce the resistance of the air passage in the machine room by inclining the rear portion of the first top surface portion toward the second top surface portion, and from the condenser. Even when the flammable refrigerant leaks, the leaked refrigerant can be promptly released and diffused into the atmosphere from the opening on the back surface of the machine room cover, thereby improving safety. Further, since the amount of cooling air in the machine room increases, the cooling efficiency of the compressor and the condenser can be improved, and the power consumption of the refrigerator can be reduced.

  The invention according to claim 13 is provided with a machine room cover that covers the machine room, and the machine room cover is provided with an opening so that only the machine room cover can be removed and maintained during maintenance such as compressor repair. Workability is improved.

  The invention according to claim 14 is a machine that is a relatively small part at the time of maintenance such as repair of a compressor by making the back part of the machine room cover a separate part that can be attached and detached and the machine room cover having two parts. Workability is improved because only the back of the room cover can be removed for maintenance. In addition, by dividing the machine room cover into two small parts, when the machine room cover is supplied to the manufacturing line of the refrigerator main body, it is possible to increase the storage efficiency in a container or the like that conveys the machine room cover.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, a machine room fan that cools the compressor is provided in the machine room, and a refrigerant that is lower than the first top surface part and has a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure flows in at least the pipe. an opening portion provided at a position located below the weld joint of the pipe to the exhaust port, an opening as the suction port provided at a location positioned above said first top surface portion, by the machine compartment fan, wherein By forming an air passage that forcibly exhausts air in the machine room to the exhaust port while sucking outside air from the intake port , the combustible refrigerant leaked when the combustible refrigerant leaks is further reduced by the action of the machine room fan. It can be promptly released and diffused into the atmosphere from the opening, and safety can be improved. In addition, by cooling the compressor and the condenser, the coefficient of performance (COP) of the compressor is improved by improving the cooling efficiency of the compressor, and the heat dissipation capacity of the condenser is improved by improving the cooling efficiency of the condenser. Power consumption can be reduced.

  DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those of the conventional examples of the background art or the embodiments described above, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted. To do. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the refrigerator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a main part of the refrigerator according to the embodiment. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the same structure as background art.

  The refrigerator main body 1 is provided with a refrigerating room 13 which is a relatively high temperature compartment in the upper part and a freezing room 14 which is a relatively low temperature part in the lower part. The refrigerating room 13 and the freezing room 14 are, for example, Insulated from the surroundings with a heat insulating material such as urethane. Moreover, taking in and out of stored items such as food is performed through a heat insulating door (not shown).

  The refrigerator compartment 13 is usually set at 1 to 5 ° C. for refrigerated storage, but may be set at a slightly lower temperature, for example, −3 to 0 ° C. for improving the freshness, depending on the storage items. In some cases, a person can freely switch the temperature setting as described above. In addition, in order to preserve wine, root vegetables, etc., the temperature may be set slightly higher, for example, around 10 ° C.

  The freezer compartment 14 is usually set at −22 to −18 ° C. for frozen storage, but may be set at a lower temperature, for example −30 to −25 ° C., for improving freshness.

  A machine room 9 is formed on the top surface of the refrigerator body 1, and the bottom surface of the machine room 9 is provided at a position lower than the first top surface part 15 and the first top surface part 15 on the refrigerator outer box back surface 16 side. The top surface portion 17 is configured to be stepped. The condenser 5 is disposed in the upper space portion of the first top surface portion 15, and the compressor 8 is disposed in the upper space portion of the second top surface portion 17, and is made of a resin that covers the condenser 5 and the compressor 8. A machine room cover 18 as a cover is fixed to the refrigerator main body 1 with screws or the like.

  The compartment covering the machine room 9 is configured by covering with the first top surface part 15, the second top surface part 17, and the machine room cover 18.

  In the case of the refrigeration cycle 19 using a three-way valve or a switching valve, the functional parts may be disposed in the machine room 9 in the refrigerator body 1.

  The machine room cover 18 includes a machine room cover upper surface part 23, a machine room cover back surface part 24, a machine room cover front surface part 25, and a machine room cover side surface part 26. For example, the condenser 5 of the machine room cover back surface part 24. An opening 27 is provided at a position located further downward.

  The capillary 20 constituting the refrigeration cycle 19 may be an electronic expansion valve that can freely control the flow rate of refrigerant driven by a pulse motor.

  The operation and action of the refrigerator configured as described above will be described below.

  The high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant discharged by the operation of the compressor 8 exchanges heat with the air above the refrigerator main body 1 in the condenser 5 to dissipate heat and condensates and reaches the capillary 20. Thereafter, the pressure is reduced while exchanging heat with the suction line 21 through the capillary 20, and the vapor reaches the evaporator 22.

  Due to the action of a cooling fan (not shown), the cool air having a relatively low temperature due to the evaporating action of the refrigerant in the evaporator 22 flows into the refrigerating room 13 and the freezing room 14 to cool the respective rooms. In the evaporator 22, the refrigerant that exchanges heat with the air in the warehouse is then sucked into the compressor 8 through the suction line 21.

  As the refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle 19 described above, isobutane, which is a flammable refrigerant with a low global warming potential, is used from the viewpoint of global environmental conservation.

  This isobutane, which is a hydrocarbon, has a specific gravity approximately twice that at normal temperature and atmospheric pressure compared to air (2.04 at 300 K).

  If the combustible refrigerant leaks from the compressor 8 or the condenser 5 that is at a high pressure during the operation of the compressor 8, the opening 27 is provided below the condenser 5. Without stagnating the refrigerant flowing downward in the machine room 9, it can be quickly released and diffused into the atmosphere, and safety can be improved.

  Further, by disposing the compressor 8 and the condenser 5 that are high-pressure devices in the refrigeration cycle 19 in the upper part of the refrigerator, even if the flammable refrigerant leaks from the compressor 8 and the condenser 5, the specific gravity difference from the air Since the refrigerant diffuses in the process of moving toward the floor surface of a kitchen or the like, safety can be improved as compared with a refrigerator in which the compressor 8 and the condenser 5 are provided on the bottom surface of the refrigerator.

  Even when the compressor 8 and the condenser 5 are arranged on the same plane, the same effect can be obtained if the opening 27 is provided at a position below the compressor 8 and the condenser 5 of the machine room cover 18. Is obtained.

  In addition, when an opening 27 is provided below an electrical component 28 that houses a connector (not shown) that supplies driving power to the compressor 8 that is an electrical contact of the compressor 8 that can be an ignition source of the combustible refrigerant, Due to the difference in specific gravity, the refrigerant flowing downward in the machine chamber 9 can be quickly released and diffused into the atmosphere without staying in the vicinity of the electrical equipment portion 28, and safety can be further improved.

  In addition, when it is the refrigerating cycle 19 using a three-way valve or a switching valve, and those functional parts are arrange | positioned in the machine room 9, from the connector part which connects each functional part and the wiring connected to a control board If the opening 27 is provided at a position located below, safety can be further improved.

  In addition, if appropriate openings are provided in the machine room cover upper surface part 23, the machine room cover back surface part 24, the machine room cover front surface part 25, and the machine room cover side surface part 26, the amount of cooling air in the compressor 8 and the condenser 5 increases. Therefore, the coefficient of performance (COP) of the compressor 8 is improved by improving the cooling efficiency of the compressor 8, and the heat dissipating ability of the condenser 5 is improved by improving the cooling efficiency of the condenser 5, thereby reducing the power consumption of the refrigerator.

  In addition, when the discharge and suction pipes connected to the compressor are joined together by welding or the like inside the machine room, the weld joints having low rigidity are likely to be damaged by vibrations from the compressor. Therefore, when the refrigerant leaks from a welded portion where the possibility of refrigerant leakage is relatively high, particularly by providing an opening below the welded portion with the discharge pipe through which refrigerant having a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure flows. Without stagnation of the refrigerant, it can be quickly released and diffused into the atmosphere, and safety can be further improved.

  In addition, a machine room fan 29 for cooling the compressor 8 and the condenser 5 is provided in the machine room 9, and the compressor 8 and the condenser 5 are forcibly air-cooled, so that the combustible refrigerant leaked when the combustible refrigerant leaks is removed. It is possible to instantaneously release and diffuse into the atmosphere from the opening 27, and the safety can be dramatically improved. Furthermore, the power consumption of the refrigerator can be reduced by improving the cooling efficiency of the compressor 8 and the condenser 5.

  In addition, when the partition plate 30 that partitions the air passage downstream side space of the machine room fan 29 and the condenser 5 side space is provided, an air shortcut in which air flows through the shortest path than the air passage of the machine room fan 29 is prevented. The compressor 8 and the condenser 5 can be cooled more efficiently, and the power consumption can be further reduced.

  In addition, if the partition plate 30 is integrated with the machine room cover 18, it is possible to prevent the air shortcut more reliably.

  Further, by making the machine room cover front part 25 a separate part having a suction port on the removable filter, dust or the like can be attached to the machine room cover front part 25 and cleaning can be performed. Since an increase in air path resistance in the machine room 9 due to adhesion of dust or the like can be prevented, a sufficient amount of air can be secured for the release and diffusion when the flammable refrigerant leaks. Furthermore, even when the refrigerator is used in an environment with a lot of dust and the like, a reduction in the heat dissipation capability of the condenser 5 can be minimized, so that an increase in power consumption can be suppressed.

  The machine room cover back surface 24 is a separate detachable part, and the machine room cover 18 has a two-part configuration, so that the machine room cover back surface which is a relatively small part during maintenance such as repair of the compressor 8 is used. Since only 24 can be removed for maintenance, workability is improved. Moreover, by dividing into two parts, when supplying the machine room cover 18 to the production line of the refrigerator main body 1, the storage efficiency in the container etc. which convey the machine room cover 18 can be raised.

  Although isobutane is used as the flammable refrigerant, a flammable refrigerant having a higher specific gravity than other air (for example, propane: specific gravity 1.8, etc.) may be used.

(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the machine room cover of the refrigerator in the second embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the same structure as Embodiment 1. FIG.

  In FIG. 3, a slanted portion 31 is provided in a portion extending over the machine room cover upper surface portion 23 and the machine room cover back surface portion 24, and an opening 27 serving as a discharge port is provided in the slanted portion 31.

  As a result, even when the refrigerator outer box rear surface 16 is pressed against a wall surface of a kitchen or the like or when luggage is placed on the machine room cover upper surface portion 23, the opening portion 27 of the inclined portion 31 is not blocked, and thus leaked combustible The refrigeration refrigerant can be quickly released and diffused into the atmosphere from the opening 27, and the safety can be improved. Moreover, since the obstruction of the air flow in the machine room 9 can be minimized even under the use conditions of the refrigerator as described above, the cooling efficiency of the compressor 8 and the condenser 5 is not significantly reduced. An increase in power consumption of the refrigerator can be suppressed.

  If the opening portion 27 of the oblique portion 31 is provided above the compressor 8, when the combustible refrigerant leaks from the compressor 8, the machine room fan 29 causes the air from the opening portion 27 of the oblique portion 31 quickly. Can release and diffuse inside. Further, the heat of the compressor 8 that becomes high heat is quickly taken away by the machine room fan 29, and the ambient hot air is cooled by the forced air cooling by the machine room fan 29 in addition to natural convection flowing upward. Improvements are made and the power consumption of the refrigerator can be greatly reduced.

(Embodiment 3)
4 and 5 show schematic schematic views of the refrigerator according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the same structure as Embodiment 1. FIG.

  In FIG. 4, the machine room cover back surface portion 24 is shifted from the same plane as the refrigerator outer box back surface 16 to the front surface side of the refrigerator body 1 to provide a back surface gap portion 32.

  Thereby, even when the refrigerator outer box back surface 16 is pressed against a wall surface of a kitchen or the like, the opening 27 of the machine room cover back surface portion 24 is not blocked, so that the leaked combustible refrigerant is promptly introduced into the atmosphere from the opening 27. Can be released and diffused to improve safety. Further, even under the use conditions of the refrigerator as described above, the flow of air in the machine room 9 is not obstructed, so that the cooling efficiency of the compressor 8 and the condenser 5 does not decrease, and the consumption of the refrigerator An increase in the amount of electric power can be suppressed.

  Moreover, as shown in FIG. 5, in addition to the effect similar to the above, the area of the machine room cover back surface part 24 can be expanded by inclining the machine room cover back surface part 24 with respect to the refrigerator outer case back surface 16. Therefore, the opening area of the opening 27 can be increased, and the leaked combustible refrigerant can be released and diffused into the atmosphere from the opening 27 more quickly, so that safety can be further improved. Moreover, since the amount of cooling air in the machine room 9 is increased by increasing the opening area of the opening 27, the cooling efficiency of the compressor 8 and the condenser 5 is further improved, and the power consumption of the refrigerator can be reduced.

  Further, by determining the inclination angle of the machine room cover back surface portion 24 in accordance with the shape of the compressor 8, the compressor 8 can be installed by being shifted to the refrigerator outer box back surface 16 side as much as possible, and the uppermost storage. The internal volume of the chamber can be increased.

(Embodiment 4)
FIG. 6 shows a schematic plan view of the refrigerator as viewed from above the refrigerator in Embodiment 4 of the present invention. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the same structure as Embodiment 1. FIG.

  The vicinity of the refrigerator outer box side surface 33 of the machine room cover rear portion 24 is inclined toward the refrigerator outer box side surface 33, and the rear inclined portion 34 is provided so that the refrigerator outer box rear surface 16 is pressed against the wall surface of a kitchen or the like. Even in this case, since the opening 27 of the back inclined portion 34 is not blocked, the leaked combustible refrigerant can be promptly released and diffused into the atmosphere from the opening 27, and safety can be improved. Moreover, since the obstruction of the air flow in the machine room 9 can be minimized even under the use conditions of the refrigerator as described above, the cooling efficiency of the compressor 8 and the condenser 5 is not significantly reduced. An increase in power consumption of the refrigerator can be suppressed. Moreover, since the opening 27 provided in the back inclined portion 34 has a specification that does not open to the upper side of the refrigerator, even if a fallen object such as dust or dust is generated from above, the vicinity of the electrical unit 28 of the compressor 8 It is possible to prevent foreign matter from adhering to the surface and avoid problems such as short circuits.

  Similarly to the machine room cover 18, when the vicinity of the refrigerator outer box side surface 33 of the refrigerator outer box rear surface 16 of the refrigerator body 1 is inclined toward the refrigerator outer box side surface 33, the refrigerator outer box rear surface 16 is moved to the wall surface of a kitchen or the like. Even when it is pressed and installed, a gap serving as an air passage is formed on the rear surface 16 side of the refrigerator outer box, so that the refrigerant released from the opening 27 of the rear inclined portion 34 can be diffused more quickly.

(Embodiment 5)
FIG. 7 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the refrigerator in the fifth embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the same structure as Embodiment 1. FIG.

  By inclining the rear portion of the first top surface portion 15 toward the second top surface portion 17 and providing the top surface inclined portion 35, the resistance of the air passage in the machine room 9 can be greatly reduced. Thereby, even when a flammable refrigerant leaks from the condenser 5, the leaked refrigerant can be promptly released and diffused into the atmosphere from the opening 27 of the machine room cover 18, and safety can be improved. Moreover, since the cooling air volume of the compressor 8 and the condenser 5 increases, the power consumption of the refrigerator can be reduced by improving the cooling efficiency of the compressor 8 and the condenser 5.

  Note that if the first top surface portion 15 itself is inclined toward the second top surface portion 17, the resistance of the air passage in the machine room 9 can be further reduced, and the safety is further improved.

(Embodiment 6)
FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of relevant parts of the refrigerator in the sixth embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the same code | symbol is shown about the same structure as Embodiment 1. FIG.

  In FIG. 8, a notch is provided in the machine room cover back surface portion 24, and the notched portion is used as the opening portion 27.

  As a result, the opening can be provided on the same plane as the height of the second top surface (bottom of the machine room), so that when the refrigerant leaks, it can be released and released without staying in the machine room. Furthermore, dust accumulated on the second top surface can be easily discharged to the outside of the cabinet, and an increase in machine room temperature due to dust accumulation can be prevented, and the cooling efficiency of the compressor 8 and the condenser 5 can be prevented. The power consumption of the refrigerator can be suppressed without decreasing.

(Embodiment 7)
FIG. 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the refrigerator in the seventh embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the same code | symbol is shown about the same structure as Embodiment 1. FIG.

  In FIG. 9, the condenser 5 is disposed at the lower part of the refrigerator body 1, and the compressor 8 is disposed on the second top surface portion 17 to disperse the high-pressure piping that has a relatively high possibility of refrigerant leakage. By arranging, it is possible to reduce the number of electrical components in the vicinity of the high-pressure pipe, and the safety is further improved.

  In addition, since the condenser 5 provided at the bottom is opened at the lower part and the periphery by an air passage opening or the like, even if there is a refrigerant leak, it is quickly diffused and does not reach a flammable concentration.

  Further, the defrost water evaporating dish 36 and the condenser cooling fan 37 are arranged at the bottom, and the condenser 5, the defrost water evaporating dish 36, and the cooling fan 37 are arranged in this order from the upstream side of the wind flow by the fan. Then, heat exchange with the condenser 5 is performed, and evaporation of defrost water can be promoted with air whose temperature has increased.

  Further, the machine room cover 18 covering the compressor 8 is protruded to a position higher than the first top surface part 15, a suction opening 27 a is provided in the front part of the machine room cover 18, and an opening part is provided in the lower part of the back of the machine room cover 18. By providing 27, dust is less likely to accumulate as compared to providing an opening on the top surface of the machine room cover 18, and the opening is not blocked even when a load is placed on the top, and air convection in the machine room 9 is performed. It is possible to secure a wind path that does not hinder As a result, the suction and discharge openings are secured in the machine room 9 on the vertical surface of the machine room cover 18 even in the event of a refrigerant leak, so that it is less likely to be blocked by dust or foreign matter, and safety can be further improved. . Further, overheating of the compressor 8 and the machine room 9 can be prevented.

(Embodiment 8)
FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of relevant parts of the refrigerator in the eighth embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the same code | symbol is shown about the same structure as Embodiment 1. FIG.

  In FIG. 10, by disposing the control board 38 on the first top surface, there is no need to provide a space dedicated to the board on the back of the refrigerator or the like, so that the internal volume or the air path can be enlarged. . Further, when the refrigerant leaks and is discharged from the opening, there is no substrate below the machine room, so safety can be improved. Further, when the machine room fan 29 is provided, the substrate can be cooled with air for cooling the compressor, and the substrate can be prevented from overheating.

  Further, a welded portion (not shown) of the refrigerant pipe is provided below the sealing surface of the control board 38, and an opening is provided further below, so that even when the refrigerant leaks from the welded portion, the lower machine chamber cover 18 Since it flows out from the opening to the outside, it becomes possible to improve safety.

(Embodiment 9)
FIG. 11 shows an upper schematic cross-sectional view of the refrigerator in the ninth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is an upper schematic rear view of the refrigerator in the embodiment, and FIG. 13 is a schematic top view of the refrigerator in the embodiment. In addition, the same code | symbol is shown about the same structure as Embodiment 1. FIG.

  11 to 13, the refrigerator main body 100 injects a foam insulator 103 into a space formed by an inner box 101 obtained by vacuum molding a resin body such as ABS and an outer box 102 using a metal material such as a pre-coated steel plate. It has a heat insulation wall. As the heat insulator 103, for example, a hard urethane foam, a phenol foam, a styrene foam, or the like is used. Use of hydrocarbon-based cyclopentane as the foaming material is better from the viewpoint of preventing global warming.

  The refrigerator main body 100 is divided into a plurality of heat-insulating sections, and has a configuration in which an upper part is a rotary door type and a lower part is a drawer type (not shown). A refrigerating room 104 is provided at the top, and a drawer type ice making room, a switching room, a vegetable room, and a freezing room (not shown) are disposed below the refrigerating room 104. Each heat insulation section is provided with a heat insulation door via a gasket 105. A refrigerating room revolving door 106 is rotatably provided at the top by a hinge 107 provided on the outer top surface of the refrigerator main body 100, and each drawer door is disposed below the revolving door.

  The refrigerator compartment revolving door 106 is provided with a door pocket 108 as a storage space, and a plurality of storage shelves 109 are provided in the cabinet.

  Moreover, the top surface of the refrigerator main body 100 includes a first top surface portion 110 and a second top surface portion 111 having a recessed top surface, and a machine room 112 is formed in the upper space of the second top surface portion 111. .

  The refrigeration cycle includes a compressor 114 elastically supported in the machine chamber 112 by an elastic member 113, a BOX type machine chamber fan 115 provided in the vicinity of the compressor 114, a condenser (not shown), and a decompressor. A capillary (not shown), a dryer (not shown) for removing moisture, an evaporator (not shown) provided in the cabinet with a cooling fan disposed in the vicinity, and a suction pipe 116 are connected in an annular shape. In addition, isobutane, which is a flammable refrigerant, and mineral oil, which is a refrigerating machine oil, are enclosed inside.

  In order to minimize the protrusion of the machine room 112 into the cabinet, the major diameter of the compressor 114 is arranged in the left-right direction, and the connecting pipe is arranged in the left-right direction. Furthermore, the front-rear direction of the machine room 112 is minimized by arranging the electric terminals covered with the cover in the left-right direction.

  Further, the center of the compressor 114 is offset from the center of the machine room 112 in the left-right direction, and the machine room fan 115 is placed in a widely provided space on the opposite side to the offset direction. The second top surface portion 111 has a shape in which the left and right sides are raised with the compressor 114 stacking portion at the bottom, and a hollow is formed on the inner side of the cabinet to form a space-saving cold air passage 119 having no steps in the chamber. Yes. Further, the machine room fan 115 is provided on the raised step part 120 of the second top surface part 111, electric parts are arranged above the machine room 112, and below the electrical part which is an electrical contact of the machine room fan 115. There is a space.

  In addition, on the side wall surface in the direction in which the compressor 114 is offset, an electric valve 121 used for flow path control of the refrigeration cycle is provided above the side wall surface in a vibration-proof manner. The electric valve 121 has a configuration in which an electric element 123 such as a motor or a solenoid is disposed above the valve main body 122. An electric component having an electric contact of the electric valve 121 is disposed above the machine chamber 112, and the electric component is disposed below the electric component 121. In this configuration, a space is provided.

  Since the machine room fan 115 and the electric valve 121 are arranged above the machine room, the machine room cover 124 is provided with screws or the like so that the upper and back surfaces of the machine room 112 can be opened to improve serviceability. As described above, the upper wall surface and the back wall surface of the machine room 112 are formed by the machine room cover 124. The machine room cover 124 may have a two-part configuration including a top cover 124a and a back cover 124b, or may be a single part.

  Further, at least one air communication part such as a notch part of the machine room cover 124 between the opening 125 provided in the machine room cover 124 or the second top surface 111 is provided below the machine room 112. Therefore, the refrigerant gas staying downward is rapidly diffused into the atmosphere due to the difference in specific gravity with the air when the refrigerant leaks, thereby preventing a combustible concentration. Moreover, the lower part of the machine room 112 indicates that it is below a pipe weld joint at which the refrigerant gas leakage frequency is relatively high. In addition, since the opening 125 is provided below the electrical part of the machine room fan 115, which is an electrical component, the safety can be further improved. Furthermore, since the opening 125 is provided below the electrical component of the electric valve 121, the safety can be further improved. Furthermore, since the opening 125 is provided below the electric terminal of the compressor 114, the safety can be further improved.

  The opening 125 is provided at least in the lower part on the back side of the machine room cover 124 in the present embodiment, but if there is no partition formed on the side wall surface of the machine room 112 by a heat insulating wall or the like of the refrigerator body 100, For example, when the machine room 112 is partitioned by extending the machine room cover 124 to the side wall surface, the position of the opening 125 is not necessarily limited to the back wall surface of the machine room. The cover 124 may be provided on a side surface that extends to the side wall surface.

  In addition, when the conventional compressor 114 is arrange | positioned under the refrigerator main body 100, since a heat insulation wall exists above, since the airtight wall is comparatively loose below, heavier than air also with respect to a refrigerant | coolant leak Refrigerant was easy to diffuse from notches, screw holes, jig fitting holes, etc., but if the machine room is configured in the depression on the top, the lower part is a heat insulating wall, so it has high sealing performance, and when refrigerant leaks, Therefore, the present invention is very effective for explosion-proof safety when the compressor 114 is arranged above in a refrigeration cycle using a combustible refrigerant.

  In order to more effectively diffuse the atmosphere from the opening 125, another opening may be provided at the upper part of the machine room 112 to serve as the suction opening 126. For example, when at least one suction opening 126 is provided above the first top surface portion 110 and at least one opening 125 is provided below the first top surface portion 110, the air flow in the vertical direction is promoted.

  In the present embodiment, the suction opening 126 is also used as a suction port for sucking outside air when the machine room fan 115 is operated, and thus is provided on the air suction side of the machine room fan 115. Specifically, the top surface portion of the machine room cover 124, that is, the top surface cover 124a is formed in a box shape at a position about 10 to 50 mm higher than the first top surface portion 110. A suction opening 126 is provided with a plurality of slits between the surface covers 124a. Since at least one of the front side, the side surface, and the rear side of the suction side of the machine room fan 115 is provided with a slit to form the suction opening 126, it is not opened toward the ceiling. As a result, the opening is not blocked and the dust does not accumulate and accumulate, so that the effect of preventing the dust from clogging is obtained.

  In the present embodiment, the suction opening 126 is configured so that the suction port for sucking outside air when the machine room fan 115 is operated is opened at the upper part on the front side of the machine room 112, but sucks outside air. For example, the suction port may be located on the upstream side of the air passage in which forced convection is performed by the machine room fan 115. For example, the suction opening and the exhaust port that are suction ports on the left and right sides across the machine room fan The opening 125 may be formed.

  At this time, the top surface of the compressor 114 is set at a position higher than the first top surface 110 in order to make the machine room 112 have a minimum volume.

  Further, the front heat insulating wall 127 of the machine room 112 is inclined so that the left and right sides of the compressor 114 are inclined to the maximum length. The internal space by this is utilized for the internal cold air path 119, and the ineffective volume is reduced. Therefore, the machine room 112 has a maximum length for disposing the compressor 114 at both the top and bottom, and the left and right sides are shortened to the top and bottom, and the volume of the space is maximized at the center. Furthermore, since the downward slope is provided from the left and right toward the central portion, the leaked combustible refrigerant has a specific gravity greater than that of air, and thus stays so as to be collected in the center. At this time, since the air is exhausted from the opening 125 provided below the center portion, the combustible refrigerant does not become a combustible concentration, and the safety is further improved.

  The control board 130 is housed in a board housing section 131 formed of a depression provided in the lower back heat insulator 103 of the machine room 112 and hermetically sealed with a board cover 132. A recess is provided in the heat insulating body 103 from the inside of the cabinet between the substrate housing part 131 and the machine room 112 and the inside lamp 133 is housed, so that it is not necessary to increase the level difference below the machine room 112. Further, since the compressor 114 is arranged so that the front-rear direction is minimized, it is possible to reduce the size of the compressor 114 inside the machine room 112 without increasing the ineffective volume.

  Furthermore, by disposing the control board 130 above the first top surface 110, the electrical component is provided above the opening 125 serving as a leakage refrigerant diffusion path from the machine room 112, so that safety is further improved.

  As described above, the refrigerator according to the present invention can quickly release and diffuse into the atmosphere without retaining the refrigerant when leaked into the machine room, so that the safety when using a flammable refrigerant can be improved. In addition, it is useful as a machine room configuration of a storage room equipped with not only a home refrigerator but also a commercial refrigerator and other cooling devices.

Schematic sectional view of the refrigerator in the first embodiment of the present invention. The principal part perspective view of the refrigerator in Embodiment 1 of this invention The perspective view of the machine room cover of the refrigerator in Embodiment 2 of this invention Schematic sectional view of the refrigerator in the third embodiment of the present invention. Schematic sectional view of the refrigerator in the third embodiment of the present invention. Schematic plan view of the refrigerator in the fourth embodiment of the present invention Schematic sectional view of the refrigerator in the fifth embodiment of the present invention. The principal part perspective view of the refrigerator in Embodiment 6 of this invention. Schematic sectional view of the refrigerator in the seventh embodiment of the present invention. The principal part perspective view of the refrigerator in Embodiment 8 of this invention. Upper schematic cross-sectional view of the refrigerator in the ninth embodiment of the present invention Upper schematic rear view of the refrigerator in the ninth embodiment of the present invention Schematic top view of the refrigerator in the ninth embodiment of the present invention Cross-sectional view of a conventional refrigerator Main part perspective view of a conventional refrigerator

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1,100 Refrigerator main body 5 Condenser 8,114 Compressor 9,112 Machine room 13,104 Refrigeration room 14 Freezing room 15,110 First top surface part 16 Refrigerator outer box rear surface 17,111 Second top surface part 18,124 Machine room cover 19 Refrigeration cycle 20 Capillary 21 Suction line 22 Evaporator 23 Machine room cover upper surface part 24 Machine room cover rear surface part (back wall surface of machine room)
25 Machine room cover front part 26 Machine room cover side part 27, 125 Opening part 28 Electrical part 29, 115 Machine room fan 30 Partition plate 31 Slanted part 32 Back surface gap part 33 Refrigerator outer box side surface 34 Back slope part 35 Top slope part 36 Defrosted water evaporating dish 37 Condenser cooling fan 38,130 Control board

Claims (15)

A refrigerator body, a refrigeration cycle in which a compressor, a condenser, a decompressor, and an evaporator provided in the refrigerator body are provided in this order to form an annular refrigerant flow path by piping, and the upper part of the refrigerator body is provided. A combustible refrigerant having a heavier specific gravity than air as the refrigerant, and the top surface of the refrigerator body is lower than the first top surface portion and the first top surface portion. A second top surface portion provided at a position, and the machine room is partitioned by a heat insulating wall with the second top surface portion as a bottom surface, the compressor is disposed, and the machine chamber is configured to cover the machine chamber. in the back wall, a portion located below the weld joint between the discharge pipe and the compressor high-pressure refrigerant flows than atmospheric pressure out of the pipe, the opening communicating the machine room and the outside, the rear The refrigerator book so that there is a gap in Refrigerator provided shifted to the front side of the back of the. A refrigerator body, a refrigeration cycle in which a compressor, a condenser, a decompressor, and an evaporator provided in the refrigerator body are provided in this order to form an annular refrigerant flow path by piping, and the upper part of the refrigerator body is provided. A combustible refrigerant having a heavier specific gravity than air as the refrigerant, and the top surface of the refrigerator body is lower than the first top surface portion and the first top surface portion. A second top surface portion provided at a position, and the machine room is partitioned by a heat insulating wall with the second top surface portion as a bottom surface, the compressor is disposed, and the machine chamber is configured to cover the machine chamber. On the side wall surface or the back wall surface , a position located below the first top surface portion and at least below the weld joint portion of the pipe through which the refrigerant having a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure flows, and the first top surface. Locating above the surface In, an opening portion communicating with the machine room and the outside refrigerator. The opening refrigerator according to claim 1 or 2 having an opening provided at a position which is located below the electrical contact of the equipment housed inside the machine room. The refrigerator according to claim 3 , wherein the electrical contact of the device housed in the machine room is an electrical contact provided in the compressor. 4. The refrigerator according to claim 3 , further comprising a machine room fan that cools the compressor in the machine room, wherein an electrical contact of a device housed in the machine room is an electrical contact provided in the machine room fan. 5. An electric valve for controlling the flow path of the refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle into the machine room, the electrical contacts of the equipment housed inside the machine chamber, to claim 3 wherein an electrical contact provided in the electric valve The refrigerator described. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the condenser is separated from the compressor disposed on a top surface and disposed at a lower portion of a refrigerator body, and high-pressure piping is dispersed. The refrigerator as described in any one of Claim 2 to 7 which has arrange | positioned the said compressor so that the top | upper surface part of the said compressor may become a position higher than a said 1st top | upper surface part. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , wherein an oblique portion is provided in a portion extending over an upper surface portion and a rear surface portion of the compartment covering the machine room, and an opening portion is provided in the oblique portion.   The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein a back surface portion of a section covering the machine room is inclined with respect to a back surface of the refrigerator body.   The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein a side surface portion and a back surface portion of a section covering the machine room are chamfered.   The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein a rear portion of the first top surface portion is inclined toward the second top surface portion.   The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a machine room cover that covers the machine room, wherein the opening is provided in the cover of the machine room.   The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein a rear part of the machine room cover is a separate part that can be attached and detached, and the machine room cover has a two-part configuration. A machine room fan that cools the compressor is provided in the machine room, and is positioned below the first top surface part and at least below a welded joint of a pipe through which a refrigerant having a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure flows. The opening provided in the place to be used as the exhaust port, and the opening provided in the place located above the first top surface portion as the suction port, and the machine room fan sucking outside air from the suction port while The refrigerator according to any one of claims 2 to 14 , wherein an air passage for forcibly exhausting air in a machine room to the exhaust port is formed.

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