JPWO2006043430A1 - Air conditioner - Google Patents

Abstract

A filter network for removing dust from air passing through a heat exchanger, the air conditioner having an indoor unit that houses a heat exchanger and a fan that blows out the air heat-exchanged by the heat exchanger. And a suction nozzle that can be driven in the first direction along the filter mesh, and a suction device connected to the suction nozzle. The suction nozzle includes a nozzle body having an opening and a belt having a suction hole that covers the opening and is driven in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction along the opening. Further, a position detecting means for detecting the position of the suction hole in the second direction is provided so that the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle can be changed according to the position of the suction hole detected by the position detecting means.

Description

  The present invention relates to an air conditioner having a function of automatically cleaning an air filter provided in an air suction port of an indoor unit.

  In a conventional indoor unit of an air conditioner, an air filter for preventing dust from entering the inside of the main body is provided on the front surface of the heat exchanger, and the air filter can remove the adhering dust. Removably attached to. The filter device with such a configuration not only requires frequent maintenance, but the air filter gradually clogs until maintenance is performed, resulting in a reduction in the amount of air passing through the heat exchanger. As a result, the air conditioning capacity is reduced, leading to an increase in power consumption.

  For this reason, an air conditioner with an automatic cleaning function that periodically cleans dust adhering to the air filter with a brush has been proposed for the purpose of reducing maintenance work of the air filter (see, for example, Patent Document 1). ).

  Also, the dust on the filter is sucked by the suction fan from the dust suction part that can move freely on the filter, and the dust is stored in the dust storage part via the suction duct, so that the filter dust is automatically cleaned. An air conditioner with an automatic cleaning function has also been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

JP-A-6-74521 JP 2002-340395 A

  However, in the air conditioner described in Patent Document 1, there are problems such that the brush and the air filter are rubbed against each other, so that dust is entangled with the brush, or the brush is worn or deformed to deteriorate its function. In addition, after a certain amount of time has passed, the dust collected by scraping with a brush must be processed, and maintenance labor has not been greatly reduced.

  On the other hand, in the air conditioner described in Patent Document 2, the amount of dust adhering to the air filter varies depending on the usage time and environment of the air conditioner, and if the dust is not cleaned for a long time, the dust adheres. Therefore, when the amount of dust is large or it is not cleaned for a long time, there is a problem that the dust cannot be completely cleaned and the dust remains on the air filter.

  In addition, the dust accumulated in the dust storage unit must be thrown away by the user, and the time and effort for cleaning cannot always be greatly reduced. From this point of view, an automatic cleaning device that can clean the entire surface of the filter of the air conditioner is preferable to suck the dust on the filter with a suction fan from a small dust suction part that can move in two directions on the filter, A cleaning method for discharging to the outside through a duct is preferable.

  However, in such a method, there is a problem that dust sucked during cleaning gradually accumulates inside the suction duct and the exhaust duct and the suction air volume decreases, and as a result, the cleaning performance of the filter decreases.

  Further, when the entire surface of the filter is cleaned, the cleaning time becomes long, and the air conditioning function is restricted during that time, and there is a problem that the user's usability is deteriorated.

  Moreover, the air filter of an air conditioner generally has a bent shape, with the upper part in the horizontal direction and the lower part in the vertical direction. In such a case, the amount of dust adhering to the air filter is usually higher in the upper part and lower in the lower part. For this reason, if dust is sucked into the upper and lower parts of the air filter with the same suction air volume, unevenness will occur in the removal, and in some cases, dust on the upper part will remain, and in the lower part, excessive suction air volume will be required and wasteful power will be consumed. There was a problem of consumption.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems of the prior art, and improves the usability of the user and cleans the air filter by removing dust adhered to the air filter reliably and efficiently. An object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner in which performance does not deteriorate and wasteful power is not consumed.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides an air conditioner having an indoor unit in which a heat exchanger and a fan that blows out air heat-exchanged by the heat exchanger into a room are housed in a main body, A filter device configured to remove a dust of air passing through the vessel, a suction nozzle that can be driven in the first direction along the filter mesh, and a suction device connected to the suction nozzle, The suction nozzle includes a nozzle body having an opening, and a belt having a suction hole that covers the opening and is driven in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction along the opening. A position detecting means for detecting the position of the suction hole in the second direction is provided, and the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle can be changed according to the position of the suction hole detected by the position detecting means. And butterflies.

  The suction nozzle cleaning ability is changed by changing the number of suctions in the first direction of the suction nozzle according to the position of the suction hole detected by the position detection means, or by changing the suction amount of the suction nozzle. It can be changed or the driving speed of the suction nozzle can be changed.

  Further, dust detection means for detecting the amount of dust adhering to the filter net may be further provided so that the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle can be changed according to the amount of dust adhering detected by the dust detection means. .

  In this case, the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle can be changed by changing the suction amount or the driving speed of the suction nozzle according to the amount of dust attached detected by the dust detection means.

  In the present invention, the suction nozzle is reciprocated in the first direction to clean the first part of the filter net, and then the suction hole is moved in the second direction to perform the suction. A cleaning mode is provided in which the nozzle is reciprocated in the first direction to clean a second portion different from the first portion of the filter mesh, and this is repeated to clean the entire surface of the filter mesh. Features.

  In the cleaning mode, the filter screen is set to be cleaned sequentially from the bottom to the top, and when the suction nozzle reaches the end of the filter screen in the first direction, the suction nozzle and the suction hole are moved. Is preferably stopped.

  In the cleaning mode, it is preferable to set the fan to operate at a lower speed than in the air-conditioning operation, clean only a part of the filter network, and end the cleaning mode.

  Further, at the end of the cleaning mode, the suction hole is moved to the next cleaning start position, and the fan is returned to the air conditioning operation.

  In addition, the filter device may include a suction duct that connects the suction nozzle and the suction device, and may be provided with a suction duct dust discharge mode in which the suction air volume in the suction duct is increased as compared with the cleaning mode. Further, the filter device may include an exhaust duct connected to the suction device, and may be provided with an exhaust duct dust exhaust mode in which the exhaust air volume in the exhaust duct is increased as compared with the suction duct dust exhaust mode.

  In this case, the number of rotations of the suction fan in the cleaning mode of the suction fan provided in the suction device, the suction duct dust mode, or the exhaust duct dust mode may be changed according to the length of the exhaust duct.

Since the present invention is configured as described above, the following effects can be obtained.
Since the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle can be changed according to the position of the suction hole detected by the position detection means, the suction nozzle can be reciprocated only in the upper part where the amount of dust is attached to increase the number of suctions. Remaining can be prevented. Further, the same effect can be obtained by changing the suction amount or driving speed of the suction nozzle.

  Further, a dust detection means for detecting the amount of dust adhering to the filter mesh is further provided, and when the suction amount or driving speed of the suction nozzle is changed in accordance with the amount of dust detected by the dust detection means, the dust filter net It is possible to reduce the amount of adhesion to the filter as much as possible, to shorten the time required for filter cleaning, and to further reduce power consumption.

  Further, when cleaning the filter mesh, the suction nozzle is reciprocated in the first direction, and then the suction hole is moved in the second direction to change the position of the suction hole. Similarly, the suction nozzle is moved in the first direction of the filter mesh. Since the cleaning mode that cleans the entire surface of the filter net by repeating the reciprocating operation multiple times is provided, dust that cannot be completely sucked during the forward movement of the suction nozzle can be sucked again during the backward movement, Dust collection can be prevented. Furthermore, since the sucked dust is discharged to the outside through the exhaust duct, it is possible to save the user's trouble of cleaning the filter net as much as possible.

  Furthermore, even when the amount of dust attached is large or when the filter net has not been cleaned for a long period of time, if the reciprocating operation in the first direction is repeated a plurality of times, the reciprocating operation could not be performed in one time. Dust can be removed, and uncollected dust can be prevented.

  Also, especially when there is a large amount of dust attached, dust accumulated on the vertical part of the filter mesh may be scraped off by the suction nozzle. In the cleaning mode, cleaning is performed sequentially from the bottom to the top of the filter mesh. Therefore, dust scraped from the upper side of the suction hole can be sucked from the lower suction hole, and since the lower side of the suction hole has already been cleaned, the dust is not scraped off and accumulated. I don't have to.

  In addition, even if the amount of dust adhering to the filter mesh is large and dust that cannot be sucked from the suction hole is scraped to the left or right end by the suction nozzle and remains in the filter mesh as a lump, When the nozzle reaches the left end or the right end of the filter mesh, the movement of the suction nozzle and the suction hole is stopped, so that the suction can be sucked from the suction hole during the stop, and the remaining of the dust can be prevented.

  Also, if the fan is operated at high speed during the cleaning mode, the fan generates an air flow around the suction nozzle in the direction opposite to the dust suction direction, and the suction force of the suction nozzle is reduced. The predetermined cleaning performance can be maintained by operating the fan at a low speed.

  In addition, if the fan is operated at a low speed during the cleaning mode, the air conditioning function inherent to the air conditioner cannot be fully exhibited. Furthermore, since it takes a long time to clean the entire surface of the filter network (for example, 30 minutes), the air conditioning function is limited for the user. Therefore, by limiting the cleaning site per time to a part of the filter net, it is possible to shorten the time per cleaning and improve the user-friendliness.

  When the filter cleaning is completed, the suction hole is moved to the next cleaning start position, so that it is not necessary to move the suction hole to the cleaning start position at the next cleaning start, and the next filter cleaning time can be shortened. Usability is improved. Further, by returning the fan that has been restricted to the low speed operation during the filter cleaning to the high speed operation, the air conditioning function can be quickly recovered after the filter cleaning is completed, and the user convenience is improved.

  In addition, if a suction duct dust discharge mode is provided in which the suction air volume in the suction duct is increased compared to that in the cleaning mode, the air flow rate in the suction duct can be increased and dust accumulated in the suction duct can be blown off during the cleaning mode. It is possible to prevent the cleaning performance from being lowered. In addition, if an exhaust duct dust exhaust mode in which the exhaust air volume in the exhaust duct is increased compared to the suction duct dust exhaust mode is provided, the air flow rate in the exhaust duct is increased and the exhaust air is exhausted during the cleaning mode or the suction duct dust exhaust mode. The dust accumulated in the duct can be blown off, and the cleaning performance can be prevented from deteriorating.

  Further, the length of the exhaust duct varies depending on the state of the air conditioner installation site. When the length of the exhaust duct increases, the suction air volume in the cleaning mode decreases and the suction performance decreases. Therefore, if the number of rotations of the suction fan in the cleaning mode is changed according to the length of the exhaust duct when the air conditioner is installed, the cleaning performance of the filter can be properly maintained.

  Similarly, if the number of rotations of the suction fan in the suction duct dust mode or the exhaust duct dust mode is changed according to the length of the exhaust duct, the suction duct dust performance or the exhaust duct dust performance depends on the length of the exhaust duct. Fluctuations can be prevented, and the cleaning performance of the filter can be maintained appropriately.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an indoor unit of an air conditioner according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a filter device provided in the indoor unit of FIG. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a suction nozzle provided in the filter device according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the suction nozzle of FIG. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VV in FIG. 6A and 6B are schematic views showing the positions of the suction holes according to the cleaning range of the filter mesh. FIG. 6A shows the positions of the suction holes when the range A is cleaned, and FIG. The position of the suction hole, (c) shows the position of the suction hole when the range C is cleaned, and (d) shows the position of the suction hole when the range D is cleaned. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a suction cleaning order of the filter device. FIG. 8 is another schematic diagram showing the suction cleaning order of the filter device. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line V-V in FIG. 3, and particularly shows a modification of the suction nozzle. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the suction nozzle provided in the filter device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI in FIG. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the positions of the suction holes corresponding to the cleaning range of the filter mesh. (A) shows the position of the suction holes when cleaning the range A, and (b) shows the case when cleaning the range B. The position of the suction hole, (c) shows the position of the suction hole when the range D is cleaned, and (d) shows the position of the suction hole in the suction duct dust discharge mode. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a suction cleaning order of the filter device. FIG. 14 is a graph showing the relationship between the suction air volume and the length of the exhaust duct.

Explanation of symbols

2 indoor unit body 4 heat exchanger 6 fan 8 filter device 10 filter frame 10a guide rail 12 filter network 14 suction nozzle 16 suction duct 18 suction device 20 exhaust duct 22 nozzle body 22a nozzle opening (first nozzle opening)
22b Second nozzle opening 24 Belt 24a Suction hole (first suction hole)
24b 2nd suction hole 26 Instruction part 28 Suction hole sensor 30 Drive hole 32 Stepping motor 34 Gear 36, 38 Limit switch 40 Dust sensor

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
Embodiment 1 FIG.
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an indoor unit of an air conditioner according to the present invention. Inside the indoor unit main body 2, indoor air is taken in through the heat exchanger 4 and the heat exchanger 4, and the heat is exchanged by the heat exchanger 4. The fan 6 for blowing the exchanged air into the room and the filter device 8 disposed on the upstream side of the heat exchanger 4 are accommodated, and a plurality of suctions formed from the front surface to the upper surface of the main body 2 Air is sucked from the mouth by the operation of the fan 6, and dust floating in the air is removed by a filter device 8 provided between the suction mouth and the heat exchanger 4.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the filter device 8 that removes dust from the air passing through the heat exchanger 4 includes a filter frame 10, a filter network 12 that holds the filter frame 10, and a surface of the filter network 12. And a suction nozzle 14 slidable along. Moreover, the filter frame 10, the filter net | network 12, etc. become bending shape, and an upper part is comprised in a horizontal direction and a lower part is comprised in the perpendicular direction. The suction nozzle 14 can move smoothly left and right with a very narrow gap from the filter net 12 by a pair of guide rails 10a installed at the upper and lower ends of the filter frame 10, and the dust adhering to the filter net 12 It is sucked from the suction nozzle 14. Furthermore, one end of a suction duct 16 is connected to the suction nozzle 14, and the other end of the suction duct 16 is connected to a suction device 18. The suction device 18 is a device using a fan motor capable of adjusting the rotation speed so that the suction amount can be varied. The suction duct 16 is formed of a duct that can be bent so as not to interfere with the movement of the suction nozzle 14. Further, an exhaust duct 20 is connected to the suction device 18 and is routed outside the room. Dust adhering to the filter mesh 12 and sucked by the suction nozzle 14 is discharged to the outside through the suction duct 16, the suction device 18, and the exhaust duct 20.

Next, the suction nozzle 14 will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 3 is a view of the suction nozzle 14 as viewed obliquely from above. As shown in FIG. 3, the suction nozzle 14 surrounds the nozzle body 22 that serves as a flow path for the sucked air and the nozzle body 22. The belt 24 is provided with a width of 20 mm. On the surface of the nozzle body 22 on the filter net 12 side, a slit-like nozzle opening 22a having a length of 320 mm (corresponding to the vertical length of the filter net 12) and a width of 3 mm is formed. On the other hand, the belt 24 is formed in a loop shape, and is wound around the outer periphery of the nozzle body 22 so as to cover the nozzle opening 22a. The belt 24 is provided with a suction hole 24a having a length of 80 mm (1/4 of the vertical length of the filter net 12) and a width of 2 mm. The belt 24 is positioned so that the suction hole 24a is located directly above the nozzle opening 22a. Is attached. An instruction portion 26 is provided on the side surface of the suction hole 24a in order to detect the position. A suction hole sensor 28 is provided inside the suction nozzle 14 so as to come into contact with the instruction unit 26, and can always detect the position of the instruction unit 26 to detect the position of the suction hole 24 a. Yes. At both ends of the belt 24, drive holes 30 are provided at regular intervals like a movie film, and a gear 34 attached to a stepping motor 32 fixed on the nozzle body 22 is engaged with the drive holes 30. The belt 24 can be driven freely in any of the vertical directions.

  4 is a view showing the nozzle main body 22 and the belt 24 separately in FIG. 3, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the suction nozzle 14 (cross-sectional view taken along line V-V in FIG. 3).

  As another configuration for driving the belt in the suction nozzle 14 having such a configuration, a method of driving the belt 24 with a rubber roller or the like without using the gear 34 is conceivable. In the embodiment of the present invention, the belt 24 is formed in a loop shape in order to reduce the size of the apparatus, but there is a method of winding the belt by providing a reel or the like.

  In the present embodiment, the entire surface of the filter screen 12 is suction-cleaned by the suction nozzle 14 having the above-described configuration, and the specific operation will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 6 to 8.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the positions of the suction holes 24a corresponding to the cleaning ranges A, B, C, and D of the filter mesh 12 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the actual suction nozzle 14 has a structure bent along the filter mesh 12, but in FIG. 6, the suction nozzle 14 is shown in a straightened state for easy viewing. .

  First, when the area A of the filter mesh 12 in FIG. 2 is suction-cleaned, the belt 24 is driven to fix the suction hole 24a to the position A as shown in FIG. By driving the suction nozzle 14 from the right end to the left end of the filter mesh 12 while sucking in this state, the horizontal range of A of the filter mesh 12 can be sucked and cleaned.

  Next, in order to shift to suction cleaning in the range B of the filter mesh 12 in FIG. 2, the belt 24 is driven to fix the suction hole 24a at the position B shown in FIG. 6B. Similarly, by driving the suction nozzle 14 from the left end to the right end of the filter mesh 12 while sucking in this state, the horizontal range B of the filter mesh 12 in FIG. 2 can be sucked and cleaned. Similarly, the range of C and D of the filter screen 12 in FIG. Since the ranges of C and D of the filter network 12 in FIG. 2 are provided in the horizontal direction, the amount of dust adhering is larger than the range of A and B, and a larger amount of suction is required. FIGS. 7 and 8 are diagrams showing the order of this suction cleaning with arrows, but the range of A and B of the filter mesh 12 in FIG. 2 suctions one horizontal row as shown in FIG. Cleaning is performed by moving the nozzle 14 horizontally only in one direction, and the range of C and D of the filter mesh 12 in FIG. 2 is horizontally moved in one row in the horizontal direction as shown in FIG. (Reciprocating) to clean. By performing such a horizontal sweep suction operation, the entire surface of the filter screen 12 can be cleaned substantially uniformly.

  As shown in FIG. 2, limit switches 36 and 38 are provided on both sides of the filter frame 10, and the suction nozzle 14 contacts the limit switch 36 and 38 so that the suction nozzle 14 is horizontal. Move back and forth in the direction. Details thereof will be described later in a second embodiment.

  According to the present embodiment, the position of the suction hole 24a can be detected. When the position of the suction hole 24a is above the filter mesh 12, the suction nozzle 14 is driven to reciprocate to increase the number of suctions. Can be prevented from remaining. That is, the entire surface of the filter mesh 12 can be cleaned substantially uniformly by changing the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle 14 in accordance with the position of the suction hole 24a detected by the suction hole sensor 28 as the position detection means.

  Further, when the position of the suction hole 24a is above the filter net 12, it is possible to prevent the dust from remaining by increasing the output of the suction device 18 and increasing the suction amount. In this case, the suction nozzle 14 performs cleaning as shown in FIG.

  Furthermore, when the position of the suction hole 24a is above the filter mesh 12, it is possible to prevent the dust from remaining by reducing the horizontal driving speed of the suction nozzle 14 and extending the suction time.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the nozzle body 22 is provided with a dust sensor 40 that detects the amount of dust attached to the surface of the filter net 12, and the portion where the amount of dust detected by the dust sensor 40 is large is a suction hole sensor. After the suction hole 24a detected by 28 is aligned with the portion, suction is performed by locally increasing the output of the suction device 18 to increase the suction amount or locally lowering the horizontal driving speed of the suction nozzle. Remaining dust can be prevented by lengthening the time. That is, the entire surface of the filter screen 12 can be cleaned substantially uniformly by changing the cleaning capability of the suction nozzle 14 in accordance with the amount of dust attached detected by the dust sensor 40 as the dust detector.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
10 and 11 show the suction nozzle 14A provided in the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and the outer periphery of the nozzle body 22 so as to cover the first nozzle opening 22a. A first suction hole 24a (for example, a width of 5 mm and a height of 50 mm) for sucking dust is formed in the belt 24 wound around the first suction hole 24a, and the first suction hole 24a is a first nozzle opening. The belt 24 is attached so as to be directly above 22a.

  A pair of second nozzle openings 22b having a predetermined length are formed on both sides of the first nozzle opening 22a in the vicinity of the upper end of the nozzle body 22, and the belt 24 has a first suction hole. A pair of second suction holes 24b having a predetermined length are formed on both sides of 24a.

The air conditioner according to the present embodiment remains in the exhaust duct 20, a cleaning mode for sucking dust adhering to the filter net 12, a suction duct dust mode for discharging dust remaining in the suction duct 16, and the exhaust duct 20. An exhaust duct dust discharge mode for discharging dust is provided, and the second suction hole 24b is blocked by the nozzle body 22 in the cleaning mode, while the second nozzle is closed in the suction duct dust discharge mode and the exhaust duct dust discharge mode. The opening 22b and the second suction hole 24b are communicated to increase the air volume.
Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment described above, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  Next, the operation for cleaning the entire surface of the filter net 12 in the indoor unit configured as described above will be described with reference to FIGS.

  When the cleaning of the filter screen 12 is started, the cleaning mode is first selected, the fan 6 is set to a low speed operation (a low speed operation compared to the air conditioning operation), the belt 24 is driven, and the first suction hole 24a is illustrated. 2 is fixed at position A.

  In this state, the rotation speed of a suction fan (not shown) provided in the suction device 18 is operated at S1 (for example, 4000 rpm), the suction nozzle 14 is moved from the right end to the left end, and the left limit switch 36 is moved to the suction nozzle 14. When the left end is reached, the movement of the suction nozzle 14 is stopped for 5 seconds. During this 5 seconds, the lump of dust scraped by the suction nozzle 14 can be sucked.

  Thereafter, the suction nozzle 14 is moved from the left end to the right end, the right limit switch 38 detects the suction nozzle 14, and when it reaches the right end, the cleaning of the range A of the filter mesh 12 is completed.

  After the suction nozzle 14 reaches the right end, the movement of the suction nozzle 14 is stopped for 5 seconds, and then the belt 24 is driven to fix the first suction hole 24a to the position B of the filter mesh 12 in FIG.

  Thereafter, similarly, the range of B to D of the filter network 12 in FIG. 2 is cleaned. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the cleaning order in the present embodiment. By combining the left and right operation of the suction nozzle 14 by the solid arrow and the intermittent operation from the lower side to the upper side of the first suction hole 24a by the broken line arrow. It is possible to prevent dust from being scraped off at the vertical portion (A to B position) of the filter net 12.

  Furthermore, dust that could not be sucked in the forward path can be sucked in the return path, so that uncollected dust can be prevented, and the entire surface of the filter net 12 can be automatically cleaned.

  Further, since the sucked dust can be discharged to the outside from the exhaust duct 20, the user's trouble of cleaning the filter net 12 can be saved completely.

  When the entire cleaning of the filter screen 12 is finished, the cleaning mode is finished and the suction duct dust discharge mode is entered. In the suction duct dust removal mode, the belt 24 is driven to fix the first suction hole 24a at the position shown in FIG.

  In the suction duct dust discharge mode, the second suction hole 24b of the belt 24 and the second nozzle opening 22b of the nozzle body 22 coincide with each other, so the suction air volume from the suction nozzle 14 is increased and increased compared to the cleaning mode. The dust accumulated in the suction duct 16 is discharged with the airflow. Thereby, the fall of the cleaning performance of a filter can be prevented.

  If the 1st suction hole 24a is hold | maintained for 10 second in the position of suction duct dust removal mode, suction duct dust removal mode will be complete | finished and it will transfer to exhaust duct dust removal mode.

  In the exhaust duct dust removal mode, the rotational speed of the suction fan of the suction device 18 is increased to S2 (for example, 5000 rpm) higher than S1 while the first suction hole 24a is in the suction duct dust removal mode position, and the air volume in the exhaust duct 20 is increased. Is further increased.

  By holding this for 15 seconds, the dust accumulated in the exhaust duct 20 is discharged to the outdoors. Thereby, the fall of the cleaning performance of a filter can be prevented.

  When the exhaust duct dust removal mode ends, the fan 6 is returned to the high speed operation to restore the air conditioning function, and the belt 24 is driven to return the first suction hole 24a to the position A of the filter mesh 12.

  As a result, the air-conditioning function can be quickly restored, and the first suction hole 24a is already at the cleaning start position when the next cleaning of the filter screen 12 is started. Therefore, it is necessary to move the first suction hole 24a. Since the cleaning time can be shortened, user convenience is improved.

  If the filter net 12 has not been cleaned for a long time, the first suction hole 24a is fixed at the position A in FIG. 13 in the cleaning mode, and the suction nozzle 14 is reciprocated left and right a plurality of times (for example, two reciprocations). After the repetition, the first suction hole 24a is moved to the position B, and thereafter the same is repeated to the position D.

  As a result, each part of A to D is repeatedly sucked, and therefore, even when the amount of dust is large or when the filter net 12 is not cleaned for a long period of time, it is possible to prevent the dust adhering to the filter net 12 from being left behind. it can.

  Further, if the entire surface of the filter mesh 12 is cleaned, the air conditioning function is limited for a long time. Therefore, when the position A of the filter mesh 12 is cleaned in FIG. 13, the cleaning mode is terminated and the suction duct dust removal mode is entered. You may make it do.

  Thereby, the cleaning time per cleaning of the filter screen 12 can be shortened, and even when the user wants to use the air conditioning function during cleaning of the filter screen 12, it is not necessary to wait for a long time. Then, the next cleaning of the filter screen 12 is started from the B position.

  FIG. 14 is a graph showing the relationship between the suction air volume and the length of the exhaust duct 20, but the suction air volume decreases as the length of the exhaust duct 20 increases, and when it exceeds a certain length, dust suction is performed. The necessary suction air volume is below the required amount, and the dust left on the filter net 12 is left behind. The length of the exhaust duct 20 varies depending on the situation of the installation site of the air conditioner.

  Therefore, when the installer sets the length of the exhaust duct 20 with a remote controller (not shown) during the construction of the air conditioner, the rotation speed of the suction fan of the suction device 18 in the cleaning mode and the suction duct dust discharge mode is set. S1 may be changed to S3 (for example, 5000 rpm), and the rotation speed of the suction fan in the exhaust duct dust mode may be changed from S2 to S4 (for example, 6000 rpm).

  As a result, the necessary suction air volume can always be ensured regardless of the construction status of the exhaust duct 20, and the cleaning performance of the filter screen 12 can be maintained appropriately.

  In addition, it can replace with the length of the exhaust duct 20, and can also change the rotation speed of a suction fan based on the frequency | count of bending of the exhaust duct 20. FIG.

  As described above, the air conditioner according to the present invention can prevent the collection of dust adhering to the filter net of the indoor unit, and can completely eliminate the user's trouble of cleaning the filter. Applicable to air conditioners. Moreover, it is convenient also for the air conditioner which is hard to clean the filter of the type | mold which embeds an apparatus in a ceiling or is stored in a ceiling, for example, can also apply to the products which have filters and ventilation circuits, such as an air cleaner and a car air conditioner.

  The present invention relates to an air conditioner having a function of automatically cleaning an air filter provided in an air suction port of an indoor unit.

  In a conventional indoor unit of an air conditioner, an air filter for preventing dust from entering the inside of the main body is provided on the front surface of the heat exchanger, and the air filter can remove the adhering dust. Removably attached to. The filter device with such a configuration not only requires frequent maintenance, but the air filter gradually clogs until maintenance is performed, resulting in a reduction in the amount of air passing through the heat exchanger. As a result, the air conditioning capacity is reduced, leading to an increase in power consumption.

  For this reason, an air conditioner with an automatic cleaning function that periodically cleans dust adhering to the air filter with a brush has been proposed for the purpose of reducing maintenance work of the air filter (see, for example, Patent Document 1). ).

  Also, the dust on the filter is sucked by the suction fan from the dust suction part that can move freely on the filter, and the dust is stored in the dust storage part via the suction duct, so that the filter dust is automatically cleaned. An air conditioner with an automatic cleaning function has also been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

JP-A-6-74521 JP 2002-340395 A

  However, in the air conditioner described in Patent Document 1, there are problems such that the brush and the air filter are rubbed against each other, so that dust is entangled with the brush, or the brush is worn or deformed to deteriorate its function. In addition, after a certain amount of time has passed, the dust collected by scraping with a brush must be processed, and maintenance labor has not been greatly reduced.

  On the other hand, in the air conditioner described in Patent Document 2, the amount of dust adhering to the air filter varies depending on the usage time and environment of the air conditioner, and if the dust is not cleaned for a long time, the dust adheres. Therefore, if the amount of dust is large or it is not cleaned for a long time, there is a problem that the dust cannot be completely cleaned and the dust remains on the air filter.

  In addition, the dust accumulated in the dust storage unit must be thrown away by the user, and the time and effort for cleaning cannot always be greatly reduced. From this point of view, an automatic cleaning device that can clean the entire surface of the filter of the air conditioner is preferable to suck the dust on the filter with a suction fan from a small dust suction part that can move in two directions on the filter, A cleaning method for discharging to the outside through a duct is preferable.

  However, in such a method, there is a problem that dust sucked during cleaning gradually accumulates inside the suction duct and the exhaust duct and the suction air volume decreases, and as a result, the cleaning performance of the filter decreases.

  Further, when the entire surface of the filter is cleaned, the cleaning time becomes long, and the air conditioning function is restricted during that time, and there is a problem that the user's usability is deteriorated.

  Moreover, the air filter of an air conditioner generally has a bent shape, with the upper part in the horizontal direction and the lower part in the vertical direction. In such a case, the amount of dust adhering to the air filter is usually higher in the upper part and lower in the lower part. For this reason, if dust is sucked into the upper and lower parts of the air filter with the same suction air volume, unevenness will occur in the removal, and in some cases, dust on the upper part will remain, and in the lower part, excessive suction air volume will be required and wasteful power will be consumed. There was a problem of consumption.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems of the prior art, and improves the usability of the user and cleans the air filter by removing dust adhered to the air filter reliably and efficiently. An object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner in which performance does not deteriorate and wasteful power is not consumed.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides an air conditioner having an indoor unit in which a heat exchanger and a fan that blows out air heat-exchanged by the heat exchanger into a room are housed in a main body, A filter device configured to remove a dust of air passing through the vessel, a suction nozzle that can be driven in the first direction along the filter mesh, and a suction device connected to the suction nozzle, The suction nozzle includes a nozzle body having an opening, and a belt having a suction hole that covers the opening and is driven in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction along the opening. A position detecting means for detecting the position of the suction hole in the second direction is provided, and the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle can be changed according to the position of the suction hole detected by the position detecting means. And butterflies.

  The suction nozzle cleaning ability is changed by changing the number of suctions in the first direction of the suction nozzle according to the position of the suction hole detected by the position detection means, or by changing the suction amount of the suction nozzle. It can be changed or the driving speed of the suction nozzle can be changed.

  Further, dust detection means for detecting the amount of dust adhering to the filter net may be further provided so that the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle can be changed according to the amount of dust adhering detected by the dust detection means. .

  In this case, the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle can be changed by changing the suction amount or the driving speed of the suction nozzle according to the amount of dust attached detected by the dust detection means.

  In the present invention, the suction nozzle is reciprocated in the first direction to clean the first part of the filter net, and then the suction hole is moved in the second direction to perform the suction. A cleaning mode is provided in which the nozzle is reciprocated in the first direction to clean a second portion different from the first portion of the filter mesh, and this is repeated to clean the entire surface of the filter mesh. Features.

  In the cleaning mode, the filter screen is set to be cleaned sequentially from the bottom to the top, and when the suction nozzle reaches the end of the filter screen in the first direction, the suction nozzle and the suction hole are moved. Is preferably stopped.

  In the cleaning mode, it is preferable to set the fan to operate at a lower speed than in the air-conditioning operation, clean only a part of the filter network, and end the cleaning mode.

  Further, at the end of the cleaning mode, the suction hole is moved to the next cleaning start position, and the fan is returned to the air conditioning operation.

  In addition, the filter device may include a suction duct that connects the suction nozzle and the suction device, and may be provided with a suction duct dust discharge mode in which the suction air volume in the suction duct is increased as compared with the cleaning mode. Further, the filter device may include an exhaust duct connected to the suction device, and may be provided with an exhaust duct dust exhaust mode in which the exhaust air volume in the exhaust duct is increased as compared with the suction duct dust exhaust mode.

  In this case, the number of rotations of the suction fan in the cleaning mode of the suction fan provided in the suction device, the suction duct dust mode, or the exhaust duct dust mode may be changed according to the length of the exhaust duct.

Since the present invention is configured as described above, the following effects can be obtained.
Since the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle can be changed according to the position of the suction hole detected by the position detection means, the suction nozzle can be reciprocated only in the upper part where the amount of dust is attached to increase the number of suctions. Remaining can be prevented. Further, the same effect can be obtained by changing the suction amount or driving speed of the suction nozzle.

  Further, a dust detection means for detecting the amount of dust adhering to the filter mesh is further provided, and when the suction amount or driving speed of the suction nozzle is changed in accordance with the amount of dust detected by the dust detection means, the dust filter net It is possible to reduce the amount of adhesion to the filter as much as possible, to shorten the time required for filter cleaning, and to further reduce power consumption.

  Further, when cleaning the filter mesh, the suction nozzle is reciprocated in the first direction, and then the suction hole is moved in the second direction to change the position of the suction hole. Similarly, the suction nozzle is moved in the first direction of the filter mesh. Since the cleaning mode that cleans the entire surface of the filter net by repeating the reciprocating operation multiple times is provided, dust that cannot be completely sucked during the forward movement of the suction nozzle can be sucked again during the backward movement, Dust collection can be prevented. Furthermore, since the sucked dust is discharged to the outside through the exhaust duct, it is possible to save the user's trouble of cleaning the filter net as much as possible.

  Furthermore, even when the amount of dust attached is large or when the filter net has not been cleaned for a long period of time, if the reciprocating operation in the first direction is repeated a plurality of times, the reciprocating operation could not be performed in one time. Dust can be removed, and uncollected dust can be prevented.

  Also, especially when there is a large amount of dust attached, dust accumulated on the vertical part of the filter mesh may be scraped off by the suction nozzle. In the cleaning mode, cleaning is performed sequentially from the bottom to the top of the filter mesh. Therefore, dust scraped from the upper side of the suction hole can be sucked from the lower suction hole, and since the lower side of the suction hole has already been cleaned, the dust is not scraped off and accumulated. I don't have to.

  In addition, even if the amount of dust adhering to the filter mesh is large and dust that cannot be sucked from the suction hole is scraped to the left or right end by the suction nozzle and remains in the filter mesh as a lump, When the nozzle reaches the left end or the right end of the filter mesh, the movement of the suction nozzle and the suction hole is stopped, so that the suction can be sucked from the suction hole during the stop, and the remaining of the dust can be prevented.

  Also, if the fan is operated at high speed during the cleaning mode, the fan generates an air flow around the suction nozzle in the direction opposite to the dust suction direction, and the suction force of the suction nozzle is reduced. The predetermined cleaning performance can be maintained by operating the fan at a low speed.

  In addition, if the fan is operated at a low speed during the cleaning mode, the air conditioning function inherent to the air conditioner cannot be fully exhibited. Furthermore, since it takes a long time to clean the entire surface of the filter network (for example, 30 minutes), the air conditioning function is limited for the user. Therefore, by limiting the cleaning site per time to a part of the filter net, it is possible to shorten the time per cleaning and improve the user-friendliness.

  When the filter cleaning is completed, the suction hole is moved to the next cleaning start position, so that it is not necessary to move the suction hole to the cleaning start position at the next cleaning start, and the next filter cleaning time can be shortened. Usability is improved. Further, by returning the fan that has been restricted to the low speed operation during the filter cleaning to the high speed operation, the air conditioning function can be quickly recovered after the filter cleaning is completed, and the user convenience is improved.

  In addition, if a suction duct dust discharge mode is provided in which the suction air volume in the suction duct is increased compared to that in the cleaning mode, the air flow rate in the suction duct can be increased and dust accumulated in the suction duct can be blown off during the cleaning mode. It is possible to prevent the cleaning performance from being lowered. In addition, if an exhaust duct dust exhaust mode in which the exhaust air volume in the exhaust duct is increased compared to the suction duct dust exhaust mode is provided, the air flow rate in the exhaust duct is increased and the exhaust air is exhausted during the cleaning mode or the suction duct dust exhaust mode. The dust accumulated in the duct can be blown off, and the cleaning performance can be prevented from deteriorating.

  Further, the length of the exhaust duct varies depending on the state of the air conditioner installation site. When the length of the exhaust duct increases, the suction air volume in the cleaning mode decreases and the suction performance decreases. Therefore, if the number of rotations of the suction fan in the cleaning mode is changed according to the length of the exhaust duct when the air conditioner is installed, the cleaning performance of the filter can be properly maintained.

  Similarly, if the number of rotations of the suction fan in the suction duct dust mode or the exhaust duct dust mode is changed according to the length of the exhaust duct, the suction duct dust performance or the exhaust duct dust performance depends on the length of the exhaust duct. Fluctuations can be prevented, and the cleaning performance of the filter can be maintained appropriately.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
Embodiment 1 FIG.
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an indoor unit of an air conditioner according to the present invention. Inside the indoor unit main body 2, indoor air is taken in through the heat exchanger 4 and the heat exchanger 4, and the heat exchanger 4 The fan 6 for blowing the exchanged air into the room and the filter device 8 disposed on the upstream side of the heat exchanger 4 are accommodated, and a plurality of suctions formed from the front surface to the upper surface of the main body 2 Air is sucked from the mouth by the operation of the fan 6, and dust floating in the air is removed by a filter device 8 provided between the suction mouth and the heat exchanger 4.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the filter device 8 that removes dust from the air passing through the heat exchanger 4 includes a filter frame 10, a filter network 12 that holds the filter frame 10, and a surface of the filter network 12. And a suction nozzle 14 slidable along. Moreover, the filter frame 10, the filter net | network 12, etc. become bending shape, and an upper part is comprised in a horizontal direction and a lower part is comprised in the perpendicular direction. The suction nozzle 14 can move smoothly left and right with a very narrow gap from the filter net 12 by a pair of guide rails 10a installed at the upper and lower ends of the filter frame 10, and the dust adhering to the filter net 12 It is sucked from the suction nozzle 14. Furthermore, one end of a suction duct 16 is connected to the suction nozzle 14, and the other end of the suction duct 16 is connected to a suction device 18. The suction device 18 is a device using a fan motor capable of adjusting the rotation speed so that the suction amount can be varied. The suction duct 16 is formed of a duct that can be bent so as not to interfere with the movement of the suction nozzle 14. Further, an exhaust duct 20 is connected to the suction device 18 and is routed outside the room. Dust adhering to the filter mesh 12 and sucked by the suction nozzle 14 is discharged to the outside through the suction duct 16, the suction device 18, and the exhaust duct 20.

Next, the suction nozzle 14 will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 3 is a view of the suction nozzle 14 as viewed obliquely from above. As shown in FIG. 3, the suction nozzle 14 surrounds the nozzle body 22 that serves as a flow path for the sucked air and the nozzle body 22. The belt 24 is provided with a width of 20 mm. On the surface of the nozzle body 22 on the filter net 12 side, a slit-like nozzle opening 22a having a length of 320 mm (corresponding to the vertical length of the filter net 12) and a width of 3 mm is formed. On the other hand, the belt 24 is formed in a loop shape, and is wound around the outer periphery of the nozzle body 22 so as to cover the nozzle opening 22a. The belt 24 is provided with a suction hole 24a having a length of 80 mm (1/4 of the vertical length of the filter net 12) and a width of 2 mm. The belt 24 is positioned so that the suction hole 24a is located directly above the nozzle opening 22a. Is attached. An instruction portion 26 is provided on the side surface of the suction hole 24a in order to detect the position. A suction hole sensor 28 is provided inside the suction nozzle 14 so as to come into contact with the instruction unit 26, and can always detect the position of the instruction unit 26 to detect the position of the suction hole 24 a. Yes. At both ends of the belt 24, drive holes 30 are provided at regular intervals like a movie film, and a gear 34 attached to a stepping motor 32 fixed on the nozzle body 22 is engaged with the drive holes 30. The belt 24 can be driven freely in any of the vertical directions.

  4 is a view showing the nozzle main body 22 and the belt 24 separately in FIG. 3, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the suction nozzle 14 (cross-sectional view taken along line V-V in FIG. 3).

  As another configuration for driving the belt in the suction nozzle 14 having such a configuration, a method of driving the belt 24 with a rubber roller or the like without using the gear 34 is conceivable. In the embodiment of the present invention, the belt 24 is formed in a loop shape in order to reduce the size of the apparatus, but there is a method of winding the belt by providing a reel or the like.

  In the present embodiment, the entire surface of the filter screen 12 is suction-cleaned by the suction nozzle 14 having the above-described configuration, and the specific operation will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 6 to 8.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the positions of the suction holes 24a corresponding to the cleaning ranges A, B, C, and D of the filter mesh 12 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the actual suction nozzle 14 has a structure bent along the filter mesh 12, but in FIG. 6, the suction nozzle 14 is shown in a straightened state for easy viewing. .

  First, when the area A of the filter mesh 12 in FIG. 2 is suction-cleaned, the belt 24 is driven to fix the suction hole 24a to the position A as shown in FIG. By driving the suction nozzle 14 from the right end to the left end of the filter mesh 12 while sucking in this state, the horizontal range of A of the filter mesh 12 can be sucked and cleaned.

  Next, in order to shift to suction cleaning in the range B of the filter mesh 12 in FIG. 2, the belt 24 is driven to fix the suction hole 24a at the position B shown in FIG. 6B. Similarly, by driving the suction nozzle 14 from the left end to the right end of the filter mesh 12 while sucking in this state, the horizontal range B of the filter mesh 12 in FIG. 2 can be sucked and cleaned. Similarly, the range of C and D of the filter screen 12 in FIG. Since the ranges of C and D of the filter network 12 in FIG. 2 are provided in the horizontal direction, the amount of dust adhering is larger than the range of A and B, and a larger amount of suction is required. FIGS. 7 and 8 are diagrams showing the order of this suction cleaning with arrows, but the range of A and B of the filter mesh 12 in FIG. 2 suctions one horizontal row as shown in FIG. Cleaning is performed by moving the nozzle 14 horizontally only in one direction, and the range of C and D of the filter mesh 12 in FIG. 2 is horizontally moved in one row in the horizontal direction as shown in FIG. (Reciprocating) to clean. By performing such a horizontal sweep suction operation, the entire surface of the filter screen 12 can be cleaned substantially uniformly.

  As shown in FIG. 2, limit switches 36 and 38 are provided on both sides of the filter frame 10, and the suction nozzle 14 contacts the limit switch 36 and 38 so that the suction nozzle 14 is horizontal. Move back and forth in the direction. Details thereof will be described later in a second embodiment.

  According to the present embodiment, the position of the suction hole 24a can be detected. When the position of the suction hole 24a is above the filter mesh 12, the suction nozzle 14 is driven to reciprocate to increase the number of suctions. Can be prevented from remaining. That is, the entire surface of the filter mesh 12 can be cleaned substantially uniformly by changing the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle 14 in accordance with the position of the suction hole 24a detected by the suction hole sensor 28 as the position detection means.

  Further, when the position of the suction hole 24a is above the filter net 12, it is possible to prevent the dust from remaining by increasing the output of the suction device 18 and increasing the suction amount. In this case, the suction nozzle 14 performs cleaning as shown in FIG.

  Furthermore, when the position of the suction hole 24a is above the filter mesh 12, it is possible to prevent the dust from remaining by reducing the horizontal driving speed of the suction nozzle 14 and extending the suction time.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the nozzle body 22 is provided with a dust sensor 40 that detects the amount of dust attached to the surface of the filter net 12, and the portion where the amount of dust detected by the dust sensor 40 is large is a suction hole sensor. After the suction hole 24a detected by 28 is aligned with the portion, suction is performed by locally increasing the output of the suction device 18 to increase the suction amount or locally lowering the horizontal driving speed of the suction nozzle. Remaining dust can be prevented by lengthening the time. That is, the entire surface of the filter screen 12 can be cleaned substantially uniformly by changing the cleaning capability of the suction nozzle 14 in accordance with the amount of dust attached detected by the dust sensor 40 as the dust detector.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
10 and 11 show the suction nozzle 14A provided in the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and the outer periphery of the nozzle body 22 so as to cover the first nozzle opening 22a. A first suction hole 24a (for example, a width of 5 mm and a height of 50 mm) for sucking dust is formed in the belt 24 wound around the first suction hole 24a. The first suction hole 24a is a first nozzle opening. The belt 24 is attached so as to be directly above 22a.

  A pair of second nozzle openings 22b having a predetermined length are formed on both sides of the first nozzle opening 22a in the vicinity of the upper end of the nozzle body 22, and the belt 24 has a first suction hole. A pair of second suction holes 24b having a predetermined length are formed on both sides of 24a.

The air conditioner according to the present embodiment remains in the exhaust duct 20, a cleaning mode for sucking dust adhering to the filter net 12, a suction duct dust mode for discharging dust remaining in the suction duct 16, and the exhaust duct 20. An exhaust duct dust discharge mode for discharging dust is provided, and the second suction hole 24b is blocked by the nozzle body 22 in the cleaning mode, while the second nozzle is closed in the suction duct dust discharge mode and the exhaust duct dust discharge mode. The opening 22b and the second suction hole 24b are communicated to increase the air volume.
Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment described above, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  Next, the operation for cleaning the entire surface of the filter net 12 in the indoor unit configured as described above will be described with reference to FIGS.

  When the cleaning of the filter screen 12 is started, the cleaning mode is first selected, the fan 6 is set to a low speed operation (a low speed operation compared to the air conditioning operation), the belt 24 is driven, and the first suction hole 24a is illustrated. 2 is fixed at position A.

  In this state, the rotation speed of a suction fan (not shown) provided in the suction device 18 is operated at S1 (for example, 4000 rpm), the suction nozzle 14 is moved from the right end to the left end, and the left limit switch 36 is moved to the suction nozzle 14. When the left end is reached, the movement of the suction nozzle 14 is stopped for 5 seconds. During this 5 seconds, the lump of dust scraped by the suction nozzle 14 can be sucked.

  Thereafter, the suction nozzle 14 is moved from the left end to the right end, the right limit switch 38 detects the suction nozzle 14, and when it reaches the right end, the cleaning of the range A of the filter mesh 12 is completed.

  After the suction nozzle 14 reaches the right end, the movement of the suction nozzle 14 is stopped for 5 seconds, and then the belt 24 is driven to fix the first suction hole 24a to the position B of the filter mesh 12 in FIG.

  Thereafter, similarly, the range of B to D of the filter network 12 in FIG. 2 is cleaned. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the cleaning order in the present embodiment. By combining the left and right operation of the suction nozzle 14 by the solid arrow and the intermittent operation from the lower side to the upper side of the first suction hole 24a by the broken line arrow. It is possible to prevent dust from being scraped off at the vertical portion (A to B position) of the filter net 12.

  Furthermore, dust that could not be sucked in the forward path can be sucked in the return path, so that uncollected dust can be prevented, and the entire surface of the filter net 12 can be automatically cleaned.

  Further, since the sucked dust can be discharged to the outside from the exhaust duct 20, the user's trouble of cleaning the filter net 12 can be saved completely.

  When the entire cleaning of the filter screen 12 is finished, the cleaning mode is finished and the suction duct dust discharge mode is entered. In the suction duct dust removal mode, the belt 24 is driven to fix the first suction hole 24a at the position shown in FIG.

  In the suction duct dust discharge mode, the second suction hole 24b of the belt 24 and the second nozzle opening 22b of the nozzle body 22 coincide with each other, so the suction air volume from the suction nozzle 14 is increased and increased compared to the cleaning mode. The dust accumulated in the suction duct 16 is discharged with the airflow. Thereby, the fall of the cleaning performance of a filter can be prevented.

  If the 1st suction hole 24a is hold | maintained for 10 second in the position of suction duct dust removal mode, suction duct dust removal mode will be complete | finished and it will transfer to exhaust duct dust removal mode.

  In the exhaust duct dust removal mode, the rotational speed of the suction fan of the suction device 18 is increased to S2 (for example, 5000 rpm) higher than S1 while the first suction hole 24a is in the suction duct dust removal mode position, and the air volume in the exhaust duct 20 is increased. Is further increased.

  By holding this for 15 seconds, the dust accumulated in the exhaust duct 20 is discharged to the outdoors. Thereby, the fall of the cleaning performance of a filter can be prevented.

  When the exhaust duct dust removal mode ends, the fan 6 is returned to the high speed operation to restore the air conditioning function, and the belt 24 is driven to return the first suction hole 24a to the position A of the filter mesh 12.

  As a result, the air-conditioning function can be quickly restored, and the first suction hole 24a is already at the cleaning start position when the next cleaning of the filter screen 12 is started. Therefore, it is necessary to move the first suction hole 24a. Since the cleaning time can be shortened, user convenience is improved.

  If the filter net 12 has not been cleaned for a long time, the first suction hole 24a is fixed at the position A in FIG. 13 in the cleaning mode, and the suction nozzle 14 is reciprocated left and right a plurality of times (for example, two reciprocations). After the repetition, the first suction hole 24a is moved to the position B, and thereafter the same is repeated to the position D.

  As a result, each part of A to D is repeatedly sucked, and therefore, even when the amount of dust is large or when the filter net 12 is not cleaned for a long period of time, it is possible to prevent the dust adhering to the filter net 12 from being left behind. it can.

  Further, if the entire surface of the filter mesh 12 is cleaned, the air conditioning function is limited for a long time. Therefore, when the position A of the filter mesh 12 is cleaned in FIG. 13, the cleaning mode is terminated and the suction duct dust removal mode is entered. You may make it do.

  Thereby, the cleaning time per cleaning of the filter screen 12 can be shortened, and even when the user wants to use the air conditioning function during cleaning of the filter screen 12, it is not necessary to wait for a long time. Then, the next cleaning of the filter screen 12 is started from the B position.

  FIG. 14 is a graph showing the relationship between the suction air volume and the length of the exhaust duct 20, but the suction air volume decreases as the length of the exhaust duct 20 increases, and when it exceeds a certain length, dust suction is performed. The necessary suction air volume is below the required amount, and the dust left on the filter net 12 is left behind. The length of the exhaust duct 20 varies depending on the situation of the installation site of the air conditioner.

  Therefore, when the installer sets the length of the exhaust duct 20 with a remote controller (not shown) during the construction of the air conditioner, the rotation speed of the suction fan of the suction device 18 in the cleaning mode and the suction duct dust discharge mode is set. S1 may be changed to S3 (for example, 5000 rpm), and the rotation speed of the suction fan in the exhaust duct dust mode may be changed from S2 to S4 (for example, 6000 rpm).

  As a result, the necessary suction air volume can always be ensured regardless of the construction status of the exhaust duct 20, and the cleaning performance of the filter screen 12 can be maintained appropriately.

  In addition, it can replace with the length of the exhaust duct 20, and can also change the rotation speed of a suction fan based on the frequency | count of bending of the exhaust duct 20. FIG.

  As described above, the air conditioner according to the present invention can prevent the collection of dust adhering to the filter net of the indoor unit, and can completely eliminate the user's trouble of cleaning the filter. Applicable to air conditioners. Moreover, it is convenient also for the air conditioner which is hard to clean the filter of the type | mold which embeds an apparatus in a ceiling or is stored in a ceiling, for example, can also apply to the products which have filters and ventilation circuits, such as an air cleaner and a car air conditioner.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an indoor unit of an air conditioner according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a filter device provided in the indoor unit of FIG. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a suction nozzle provided in the filter device according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the suction nozzle of FIG. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VV in FIG. 6A and 6B are schematic views showing the positions of the suction holes according to the cleaning range of the filter mesh. FIG. 6A shows the positions of the suction holes when the range A is cleaned, and FIG. The position of the suction hole, (c) shows the position of the suction hole when the range C is cleaned, and (d) shows the position of the suction hole when the range D is cleaned. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a suction cleaning order of the filter device. FIG. 8 is another schematic diagram showing the suction cleaning order of the filter device. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line V-V in FIG. 3, and particularly shows a modification of the suction nozzle. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the suction nozzle provided in the filter device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI in FIG. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the positions of the suction holes corresponding to the cleaning range of the filter mesh. (A) shows the position of the suction holes when cleaning the range A, and (b) shows the case when cleaning the range B. The position of the suction hole, (c) shows the position of the suction hole when the range D is cleaned, and (d) shows the position of the suction hole in the suction duct dust discharge mode. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a suction cleaning order of the filter device. FIG. 14 is a graph showing the relationship between the suction air volume and the length of the exhaust duct.

Explanation of symbols

2 indoor unit body 4 heat exchanger 6 fan 8 filter device 10 filter frame 10a guide rail 12 filter network 14 suction nozzle 16 suction duct 18 suction device 20 exhaust duct 22 nozzle body 22a nozzle opening (first nozzle opening)
22b Second nozzle opening 24 Belt 24a Suction hole (first suction hole)
24b 2nd suction hole 26 Instruction part 28 Suction hole sensor 30 Drive hole 32 Stepping motor 34 Gear 36, 38 Limit switch 40 Dust sensor

  The present invention relates to an air conditioner having a function of automatically cleaning an air filter provided in an air suction port of an indoor unit.

  In a conventional indoor unit of an air conditioner, an air filter for preventing dust from entering the inside of the main body is provided on the front surface of the heat exchanger, and the air filter can remove the adhering dust. Removably attached to. The filter device with such a configuration not only requires frequent maintenance, but the air filter gradually clogs until maintenance is performed, resulting in a reduction in the amount of air passing through the heat exchanger. As a result, the air conditioning capacity is reduced, leading to an increase in power consumption.

  For this reason, an air conditioner with an automatic cleaning function that periodically cleans dust adhering to the air filter with a brush has been proposed for the purpose of reducing maintenance work of the air filter (see, for example, Patent Document 1). ).

Also, the dust on the filter is sucked by the suction fan from the dust suction part that can move freely on the filter, and the dust is stored in the dust storage part via the suction duct, so that the filter dust is automatically cleaned. An air conditioner with an automatic cleaning function has also been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 2).
JP-A-6-74521 JP 2002-340395 A

  However, in the air conditioner described in Patent Document 1, there are problems such that the brush and the air filter are rubbed against each other, so that dust is entangled with the brush, or the brush is worn or deformed to deteriorate its function. In addition, after a certain amount of time has passed, the dust collected by scraping with a brush must be processed, and maintenance labor has not been greatly reduced.

  On the other hand, in the air conditioner described in Patent Document 2, the amount of dust adhering to the air filter varies depending on the usage time and environment of the air conditioner, and if the dust is not cleaned for a long time, the dust adheres. Therefore, when the amount of dust is large or it is not cleaned for a long time, there is a problem that the dust cannot be completely cleaned and the dust remains on the air filter.

  In addition, the dust accumulated in the dust storage unit must be thrown away by the user, and the time and effort for cleaning cannot always be greatly reduced. From this point of view, an automatic cleaning device that can clean the entire surface of the filter of the air conditioner is preferable to suck the dust on the filter with a suction fan from a small dust suction part that can move in two directions on the filter, A cleaning method for discharging to the outside through a duct is preferable.

  However, in such a method, there is a problem that dust sucked during cleaning gradually accumulates inside the suction duct and the exhaust duct and the suction air volume decreases, and as a result, the cleaning performance of the filter decreases.

  Further, when the entire surface of the filter is cleaned, the cleaning time becomes long, and the air conditioning function is restricted during that time, and there is a problem that the user's usability is deteriorated.

  Moreover, the air filter of an air conditioner generally has a bent shape, with the upper part in the horizontal direction and the lower part in the vertical direction. In such a case, the amount of dust adhering to the air filter is usually higher in the upper part and lower in the lower part. For this reason, if dust is sucked into the upper and lower parts of the air filter with the same suction air volume, unevenness will occur in the removal, and in some cases, dust on the upper part will remain, and in the lower part, excessive suction air volume will be required and wasteful power will be consumed. There was a problem of consumption.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems of the prior art, and improves the usability of the user and cleans the air filter by removing dust adhered to the air filter reliably and efficiently. An object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner in which performance does not deteriorate and wasteful power is not consumed.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides an air conditioner having an indoor unit in which a heat exchanger and a fan that blows out air heat-exchanged by the heat exchanger into a room are housed in a main body, A filter device configured to remove a dust of air passing through the vessel, a suction nozzle that can be driven in the first direction along the filter mesh, and a suction device connected to the suction nozzle, The suction nozzle includes a nozzle body having an opening, and a belt having a suction hole that covers the opening and is driven in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction along the opening. Position detection means for detecting the position of the suction hole in the second direction is provided, and the number of suctions, the suction amount, and the driving speed of the suction nozzle are reduced according to the position of the suction hole detected by the position detection means. When By changing one, and changing the cleaning capability of the suction nozzle.

The change in the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle can be achieved by changing any one of the number of suctions, the suction amount, and the driving speed of the suction nozzle according to the position of the suction hole detected by the position detection unit. This can be done by changing the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle .

Further, dust detection means for detecting the amount of dust adhering to the filter net is further provided, and the number of reciprocating movements of the suction nozzle in the first direction is determined according to the amount of dust adhesion detected by the dust detection means. It may be changed .

In this case, by changing the suction amount from the suction nozzle by the suction device or the driving speed of the suction nozzle in the first direction according to the dust adhesion amount detected by the dust detection means, The cleaning ability can be changed.

Further, the present invention provides a first operation for moving the suction nozzle in the first direction to clean the first part of the filter mesh, and a second operation for moving the suction hole in the second direction . And a cleaning mode for cleaning the entire surface of the filter network by alternately repeating the first and second operations .

  In the cleaning mode, the filter screen is set to be cleaned sequentially from the bottom to the top, and when the suction nozzle reaches the end of the filter screen in the first direction, the suction nozzle and the suction hole are moved. Is preferably stopped.

  In the cleaning mode, it is preferable to set the fan to operate at a lower speed than in the air-conditioning operation, clean only a part of the filter network, and end the cleaning mode.

  Further, at the end of the cleaning mode, the suction hole is moved to the next cleaning start position, and the fan is returned to the air conditioning operation.

  In addition, the filter device may include a suction duct that connects the suction nozzle and the suction device, and may be provided with a suction duct dust discharge mode in which the suction air volume in the suction duct is increased as compared with the cleaning mode. Further, the filter device may include an exhaust duct connected to the suction device, and may be provided with an exhaust duct dust exhaust mode in which the exhaust air volume in the exhaust duct is increased as compared with the suction duct dust exhaust mode.

  In this case, the number of rotations of the suction fan in the cleaning mode of the suction fan provided in the suction device, the suction duct dust mode, or the exhaust duct dust mode may be changed according to the length of the exhaust duct.

  Since the present invention is configured as described above, the following effects can be obtained.

  Since the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle can be changed according to the position of the suction hole detected by the position detection means, the suction nozzle can be reciprocated only in the upper part where the amount of dust is attached to increase the number of suctions. Remaining can be prevented. Further, the same effect can be obtained by changing the suction amount or driving speed of the suction nozzle.

  Further, a dust detection means for detecting the amount of dust adhering to the filter mesh is further provided, and when the suction amount or driving speed of the suction nozzle is changed in accordance with the amount of dust detected by the dust detection means, the dust filter net It is possible to reduce the amount of adhesion to the filter as much as possible, to shorten the time required for filter cleaning, and to further reduce power consumption.

  Further, when cleaning the filter mesh, the suction nozzle is reciprocated in the first direction, and then the suction hole is moved in the second direction to change the position of the suction hole. Similarly, the suction nozzle is moved in the first direction of the filter mesh. Since the cleaning mode that cleans the entire surface of the filter net by repeating the reciprocating operation multiple times is provided, dust that cannot be completely sucked during the forward movement of the suction nozzle can be sucked again during the backward movement, Dust collection can be prevented. Furthermore, since the sucked dust is discharged to the outside through the exhaust duct, it is possible to save the user's trouble of cleaning the filter net as much as possible.

  Furthermore, even when the amount of dust attached is large or when the filter net has not been cleaned for a long period of time, if the reciprocating operation in the first direction is repeated a plurality of times, the reciprocating operation could not be performed in one time. Dust can be removed, and uncollected dust can be prevented.

  Also, especially when there is a large amount of dust attached, dust accumulated on the vertical part of the filter mesh may be scraped off by the suction nozzle. In the cleaning mode, cleaning is performed sequentially from the bottom to the top of the filter mesh. Therefore, dust scraped from the upper side of the suction hole can be sucked from the lower suction hole, and since the lower side of the suction hole has already been cleaned, the dust is not scraped off and accumulated. I don't have to.

  In addition, even if the amount of dust adhering to the filter mesh is large and dust that cannot be sucked from the suction hole is scraped to the left or right end by the suction nozzle and remains in the filter mesh as a lump, When the nozzle reaches the left end or the right end of the filter mesh, the movement of the suction nozzle and the suction hole is stopped, so that the suction can be sucked from the suction hole during the stop, and the remaining of the dust can be prevented.

  Also, if the fan is operated at high speed during the cleaning mode, the fan generates an air flow around the suction nozzle in the direction opposite to the dust suction direction, and the suction force of the suction nozzle is reduced. The predetermined cleaning performance can be maintained by operating the fan at a low speed.

  In addition, if the fan is operated at a low speed during the cleaning mode, the air conditioning function inherent to the air conditioner cannot be fully exhibited. Furthermore, since it takes a long time to clean the entire surface of the filter network (for example, 30 minutes), the air conditioning function is limited for the user. Therefore, by limiting the cleaning site per time to a part of the filter net, it is possible to shorten the time per cleaning and improve the user-friendliness.

  When the filter cleaning is completed, the suction hole is moved to the next cleaning start position, so that it is not necessary to move the suction hole to the cleaning start position at the next cleaning start, and the next filter cleaning time can be shortened. Usability is improved. Further, by returning the fan that has been restricted to the low speed operation during the filter cleaning to the high speed operation, the air conditioning function can be quickly recovered after the filter cleaning is completed, and the user convenience is improved.

  In addition, if a suction duct dust discharge mode is provided in which the suction air volume in the suction duct is increased compared to that in the cleaning mode, the air flow rate in the suction duct can be increased and dust accumulated in the suction duct can be blown off during the cleaning mode. It is possible to prevent the cleaning performance from being lowered. In addition, if an exhaust duct dust exhaust mode in which the exhaust air volume in the exhaust duct is increased compared to the suction duct dust exhaust mode is provided, the air flow rate in the exhaust duct is increased and the exhaust air is exhausted during the cleaning mode or the suction duct dust exhaust mode. The dust accumulated in the duct can be blown off, and the cleaning performance can be prevented from deteriorating.

  Further, the length of the exhaust duct varies depending on the state of the air conditioner installation site. When the length of the exhaust duct increases, the suction air volume in the cleaning mode decreases and the suction performance decreases. Therefore, if the number of rotations of the suction fan in the cleaning mode is changed according to the length of the exhaust duct when the air conditioner is installed, the cleaning performance of the filter can be properly maintained.

  Similarly, if the number of rotations of the suction fan in the suction duct dust mode or the exhaust duct dust mode is changed according to the length of the exhaust duct, the suction duct dust performance or the exhaust duct dust performance depends on the length of the exhaust duct. Fluctuations can be prevented, and the cleaning performance of the filter can be maintained appropriately.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
Embodiment 1 FIG.
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an indoor unit of an air conditioner according to the present invention. Inside the indoor unit main body 2, indoor air is taken in through the heat exchanger 4 and the heat exchanger 4, and the heat exchanger 4 The fan 6 for blowing the exchanged air into the room and the filter device 8 disposed on the upstream side of the heat exchanger 4 are accommodated, and a plurality of suctions formed from the front surface to the upper surface of the main body 2 Air is sucked from the mouth by the operation of the fan 6, and dust floating in the air is removed by a filter device 8 provided between the suction mouth and the heat exchanger 4.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the filter device 8 that removes dust from the air passing through the heat exchanger 4 includes a filter frame 10, a filter network 12 that holds the filter frame 10, and a surface of the filter network 12. And a suction nozzle 14 slidable along. Moreover, the filter frame 10, the filter net | network 12, etc. become bending shape, and an upper part is comprised in a horizontal direction and a lower part is comprised in the perpendicular direction. The suction nozzle 14 can move smoothly left and right with a very narrow gap from the filter net 12 by a pair of guide rails 10a installed at the upper and lower ends of the filter frame 10, and the dust adhering to the filter net 12 It is sucked from the suction nozzle 14. Furthermore, one end of a suction duct 16 is connected to the suction nozzle 14, and the other end of the suction duct 16 is connected to a suction device 18. The suction device 18 is a device using a fan motor capable of adjusting the rotation speed so that the suction amount can be varied. The suction duct 16 is formed of a duct that can be bent so as not to interfere with the movement of the suction nozzle 14. Further, an exhaust duct 20 is connected to the suction device 18 and is routed outside the room. Dust adhering to the filter mesh 12 and sucked by the suction nozzle 14 is discharged to the outside through the suction duct 16, the suction device 18, and the exhaust duct 20.

  Next, the suction nozzle 14 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 3 is a view of the suction nozzle 14 as viewed obliquely from above. As shown in FIG. 3, the suction nozzle 14 surrounds the nozzle body 22 that serves as a flow path for the sucked air and the nozzle body 22. The belt 24 is provided with a width of 20 mm. On the surface of the nozzle body 22 on the filter net 12 side, a slit-like nozzle opening 22a having a length of 320 mm (corresponding to the vertical length of the filter net 12) and a width of 3 mm is formed. On the other hand, the belt 24 is formed in a loop shape, and is wound around the outer periphery of the nozzle body 22 so as to cover the nozzle opening 22a. The belt 24 is provided with a suction hole 24a having a length of 80 mm (1/4 of the longitudinal length of the filter net 12) and a width of 2 mm. The belt 24 is positioned so that the suction hole 24a is located directly above the nozzle opening 22a. Is attached. An instruction portion 26 is provided on the side surface of the suction hole 24a in order to detect the position. A suction hole sensor 28 is provided inside the suction nozzle 14 so as to come into contact with the instruction unit 26, and can always detect the position of the instruction unit 26 to detect the position of the suction hole 24 a. Yes. At the both ends of the belt 24, drive holes 30 are provided at regular intervals like a movie film, and a gear 34 attached to a stepping motor 32 fixed on the nozzle body 22 is engaged with the drive holes 30. The belt 24 can be driven freely in any of the vertical directions.

  4 is a view showing the nozzle main body 22 and the belt 24 separately in FIG. 3, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the suction nozzle 14 (cross-sectional view taken along line V-V in FIG. 3).

  As another configuration for driving the belt in the suction nozzle 14 having such a configuration, a method of driving the belt 24 with a rubber roller or the like without using the gear 34 is conceivable. In the embodiment of the present invention, the belt 24 is formed in a loop shape in order to reduce the size of the apparatus, but there is a method of winding the belt by providing a reel or the like.

  In the present embodiment, the entire surface of the filter screen 12 is suction-cleaned by the suction nozzle 14 having the above-described configuration, and the specific operation will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 6 to 8.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the positions of the suction holes 24a corresponding to the cleaning ranges A, B, C, and D of the filter mesh 12 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the actual suction nozzle 14 has a structure bent along the filter mesh 12, but in FIG. 6, the suction nozzle 14 is shown in a straightened state for easy viewing. .

  First, when the area A of the filter mesh 12 in FIG. 2 is suction-cleaned, the belt 24 is driven to fix the suction hole 24a to the position A as shown in FIG. By driving the suction nozzle 14 from the right end to the left end of the filter mesh 12 while sucking in this state, the horizontal range of A of the filter mesh 12 can be sucked and cleaned.

  Next, in order to shift to suction cleaning in the range B of the filter mesh 12 in FIG. 2, the belt 24 is driven to fix the suction hole 24a at the position B shown in FIG. 6B. Similarly, by driving the suction nozzle 14 from the left end to the right end of the filter mesh 12 while sucking in this state, the horizontal range B of the filter mesh 12 in FIG. 2 can be sucked and cleaned. Similarly, the range of C and D of the filter screen 12 in FIG. Since the ranges of C and D of the filter network 12 in FIG. 2 are provided in the horizontal direction, the amount of dust adhering is larger than the range of A and B, and a larger amount of suction is required. FIGS. 7 and 8 are diagrams showing the order of this suction cleaning with arrows, but the range of A and B of the filter mesh 12 in FIG. 2 suctions one horizontal row as shown in FIG. Cleaning is performed by moving the nozzle 14 horizontally only in one direction, and the range of C and D of the filter mesh 12 in FIG. 2 is horizontally moved in one row in the horizontal direction as shown in FIG. (Reciprocating) to clean. By performing such a horizontal sweep suction operation, the entire surface of the filter screen 12 can be cleaned substantially uniformly.

  As shown in FIG. 2, limit switches 36 and 38 are provided on both sides of the filter frame 10, and the suction nozzle 14 contacts the limit switch 36 and 38 so that the suction nozzle 14 is horizontal. Move back and forth in the direction. Details thereof will be described later in a second embodiment.

  According to the present embodiment, the position of the suction hole 24a can be detected. When the position of the suction hole 24a is above the filter mesh 12, the suction nozzle 14 is driven to reciprocate to increase the number of suctions. Can be prevented from remaining. That is, the entire surface of the filter mesh 12 can be cleaned substantially uniformly by changing the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle 14 in accordance with the position of the suction hole 24a detected by the suction hole sensor 28 as the position detection means.

  Further, when the position of the suction hole 24a is above the filter net 12, it is possible to prevent the dust from remaining by increasing the output of the suction device 18 and increasing the suction amount. In this case, the suction nozzle 14 performs cleaning as shown in FIG.

  Furthermore, when the position of the suction hole 24a is above the filter mesh 12, it is possible to prevent the dust from remaining by reducing the horizontal driving speed of the suction nozzle 14 and extending the suction time.

As shown in FIG. 9, the nozzle body 22 is provided with a dust sensor 40 that detects the amount of dust attached to the surface of the filter net 12, and the portion where the amount of dust detected by the dust sensor 40 is large is a suction hole sensor. After the suction hole 24a detected by 28 is aligned with the portion, suction is performed by locally increasing the output of the suction device 18 to increase the suction amount or locally lowering the horizontal driving speed of the suction nozzle. Remaining dust can be prevented by lengthening the time. That is, the entire surface of the filter screen 12 can be cleaned substantially uniformly by changing the cleaning capability of the suction nozzle 14 in accordance with the amount of dust attached detected by the dust sensor 40 as the dust detector.
Embodiment 2. FIG.
10 and 11 show the suction nozzle 14A provided in the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and the outer periphery of the nozzle body 22 so as to cover the first nozzle opening 22a. A first suction hole 24a (for example, a width of 5 mm and a height of 50 mm) for sucking dust is formed in the belt 24 wound around the first suction hole 24a, and the first suction hole 24a is a first nozzle opening. The belt 24 is attached so as to be directly above 22a.

  A pair of second nozzle openings 22b having a predetermined length are formed on both sides of the first nozzle opening 22a in the vicinity of the upper end of the nozzle body 22, and the belt 24 has a first suction hole. A pair of second suction holes 24b having a predetermined length are formed on both sides of 24a.

  The air conditioner according to the present embodiment remains in the exhaust duct 20 and the cleaning mode for sucking dust adhering to the filter net 12, the suction duct dust mode for discharging dust remaining in the suction duct 16, and the exhaust duct 20. An exhaust duct dust discharge mode for discharging dust is provided, and the second suction hole 24b is blocked by the nozzle body 22 in the cleaning mode, while the second nozzle is closed in the suction duct dust discharge mode and the exhaust duct dust discharge mode. The opening 22b and the second suction hole 24b are communicated to increase the air volume.

  Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment described above, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  Next, the operation for cleaning the entire surface of the filter net 12 in the indoor unit configured as described above will be described with reference to FIGS.

  When the cleaning of the filter screen 12 is started, the cleaning mode is first selected, the fan 6 is set to a low speed operation (a low speed operation compared to the air conditioning operation), the belt 24 is driven, and the first suction hole 24a is illustrated. 2 is fixed at position A.

  In this state, the rotation speed of a suction fan (not shown) provided in the suction device 18 is operated at S1 (for example, 4000 rpm), the suction nozzle 14 is moved from the right end to the left end, and the left limit switch 36 is moved to the suction nozzle 14. When the left end is reached, the movement of the suction nozzle 14 is stopped for 5 seconds. During this 5 seconds, the lump of dust scraped by the suction nozzle 14 can be sucked.

  Thereafter, the suction nozzle 14 is moved from the left end to the right end, the right limit switch 38 detects the suction nozzle 14, and when it reaches the right end, the cleaning of the range A of the filter mesh 12 is completed.

  After the suction nozzle 14 reaches the right end, the movement of the suction nozzle 14 is stopped for 5 seconds, and then the belt 24 is driven to fix the first suction hole 24a to the position B of the filter mesh 12 in FIG.

  Thereafter, similarly, the range of B to D of the filter network 12 in FIG. 2 is cleaned. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the cleaning order in the present embodiment. By combining the left and right operation of the suction nozzle 14 by the solid arrow and the intermittent operation from the lower side to the upper side of the first suction hole 24a by the broken line arrow. It is possible to prevent dust from being scraped off at the vertical portion (A to B position) of the filter net 12.

  Furthermore, dust that could not be sucked in the forward path can be sucked in the return path, so that uncollected dust can be prevented, and the entire surface of the filter net 12 can be automatically cleaned.

  Further, since the sucked dust can be discharged to the outside from the exhaust duct 20, the user's trouble of cleaning the filter net 12 can be saved completely.

  When the entire cleaning of the filter screen 12 is finished, the cleaning mode is finished and the suction duct dust discharge mode is entered. In the suction duct dust removal mode, the belt 24 is driven to fix the first suction hole 24a at the position shown in FIG.

  In the suction duct dust discharge mode, the second suction hole 24b of the belt 24 and the second nozzle opening 22b of the nozzle body 22 coincide with each other, so the suction air volume from the suction nozzle 14 is increased and increased compared to the cleaning mode. The dust accumulated in the suction duct 16 is discharged with the airflow. Thereby, the fall of the cleaning performance of a filter can be prevented.

  If the 1st suction hole 24a is hold | maintained for 10 second in the position of suction duct dust removal mode, suction duct dust removal mode will be complete | finished and it will transfer to exhaust duct dust removal mode.

  In the exhaust duct dust removal mode, the rotational speed of the suction fan of the suction device 18 is increased to S2 (for example, 5000 rpm) higher than S1 while the first suction hole 24a is in the suction duct dust removal mode position, and the air volume in the exhaust duct 20 is increased. Is further increased.

  By holding this for 15 seconds, the dust accumulated in the exhaust duct 20 is discharged to the outdoors. Thereby, the fall of the cleaning performance of a filter can be prevented.

  When the exhaust duct dust removal mode ends, the fan 6 is returned to the high speed operation to restore the air conditioning function, and the belt 24 is driven to return the first suction hole 24a to the position A of the filter mesh 12.

  As a result, the air-conditioning function can be quickly restored, and the first suction hole 24a is already at the cleaning start position when the next cleaning of the filter screen 12 is started. Therefore, it is necessary to move the first suction hole 24a. Since the cleaning time can be shortened, user convenience is improved.

  If the filter net 12 has not been cleaned for a long time, the first suction hole 24a is fixed at the position A in FIG. 13 in the cleaning mode, and the suction nozzle 14 is reciprocated left and right a plurality of times (for example, two reciprocations). After the repetition, the first suction hole 24a is moved to the position B, and thereafter the same is repeated to the position D.

  As a result, each part of A to D is repeatedly sucked, and therefore, even when the amount of dust is large or when the filter net 12 is not cleaned for a long period of time, it is possible to prevent the dust adhering to the filter net 12 from being left behind. it can.

  Further, if the entire surface of the filter mesh 12 is cleaned, the air conditioning function is limited for a long time. Therefore, when the position A of the filter mesh 12 is cleaned in FIG. 13, the cleaning mode is terminated and the suction duct dust removal mode is entered. You may make it do.

  Thereby, the cleaning time per cleaning of the filter screen 12 can be shortened, and even when the user wants to use the air conditioning function during cleaning of the filter screen 12, it is not necessary to wait for a long time. Then, the next cleaning of the filter screen 12 is started from the B position.

  FIG. 14 is a graph showing the relationship between the suction air volume and the length of the exhaust duct 20, but the suction air volume decreases as the length of the exhaust duct 20 increases, and when it exceeds a certain length, dust suction is performed. The necessary suction air volume is below the required amount, and the dust left on the filter net 12 is left behind. The length of the exhaust duct 20 varies depending on the situation of the installation site of the air conditioner.

  Therefore, when the installer sets the length of the exhaust duct 20 with a remote controller (not shown) during the construction of the air conditioner, the rotation speed of the suction fan of the suction device 18 in the cleaning mode and the suction duct dust discharge mode is set. S1 may be changed to S3 (for example, 5000 rpm), and the rotation speed of the suction fan in the exhaust duct dust mode may be changed from S2 to S4 (for example, 6000 rpm).

  As a result, the necessary suction air volume can always be ensured regardless of the construction status of the exhaust duct 20, and the cleaning performance of the filter screen 12 can be maintained appropriately.

  In addition, it can replace with the length of the exhaust duct 20, and can also change the rotation speed of a suction fan based on the frequency | count of bending of the exhaust duct 20. FIG.

  As described above, the air conditioner according to the present invention can prevent the collection of dust adhering to the filter net of the indoor unit, and can completely eliminate the user's trouble of cleaning the filter. Applicable to air conditioners. Moreover, it is convenient also for the air conditioner which is hard to clean the filter of the type | mold which embeds an apparatus in a ceiling or is stored in a ceiling, for example, can also apply to the products which have filters and ventilation circuits, such as an air cleaner and a car air conditioner.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an indoor unit of an air conditioner according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a filter device provided in the indoor unit of FIG. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a suction nozzle provided in the filter device according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the suction nozzle of FIG. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VV in FIG. 6A and 6B are schematic views showing the positions of the suction holes according to the cleaning range of the filter mesh. FIG. 6A shows the positions of the suction holes when the range A is cleaned, and FIG. The position of the suction hole, (c) shows the position of the suction hole when the range C is cleaned, and (d) shows the position of the suction hole when the range D is cleaned. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a suction cleaning order of the filter device. FIG. 8 is another schematic diagram showing the suction cleaning order of the filter device. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line V-V in FIG. 3, and particularly shows a modification of the suction nozzle. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the suction nozzle provided in the filter device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI in FIG. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the positions of the suction holes corresponding to the cleaning range of the filter mesh. (A) shows the position of the suction holes when cleaning the range A, and (b) shows the case when cleaning the range B. The position of the suction hole, (c) shows the position of the suction hole when the range D is cleaned, and (d) shows the position of the suction hole in the suction duct dust discharge mode. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a suction cleaning order of the filter device. FIG. 14 is a graph showing the relationship between the suction air volume and the length of the exhaust duct.

Explanation of symbols

2 indoor unit body 4 heat exchanger 6 fan 8 filter device 10 filter frame 10a guide rail 12 filter network 14 suction nozzle 16 suction duct 18 suction device 20 exhaust duct 22 nozzle body 22a nozzle opening (first nozzle opening)
22b Second nozzle opening 24 Belt 24a Suction hole (first suction hole)
24b 2nd suction hole 26 Instruction part 28 Suction hole sensor 30 Drive hole 32 Stepping motor 34 Gear 36, 38 Limit switch 40 Dust sensor

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides an air conditioner having an indoor unit in which a heat exchanger and a fan that blows out air heat-exchanged by the heat exchanger into a room are housed in a main body, A filter device configured to remove a dust of air passing through the vessel, a suction nozzle that can be driven in the first direction along the filter mesh, and a suction device connected to the suction nozzle, the suction nozzle comprises a nozzle body having an opening, the belt having a second direction driven suction holes perpendicular to the first direction along the opening while covering the opening portion, wherein The filter net has a first range and a second range in which the amount of dust adhering to the first range is larger than the first range , and is provided with position detection means for detecting the position of the suction hole in the second direction Detected by position detection means Wherein when the position of the suction hole of the second range can be changed to the first cleaning capability of the suction nozzle by increasing the suction number of the first direction of the suction nozzle than in the ranges It is characterized by doing so.

Claims (17)

An air conditioner having an indoor unit that houses a heat exchanger and a fan that blows out the air heat-exchanged in the heat exchanger into the room,
A filter device comprising: a filter mesh that removes dust from the air passing through the heat exchanger; a suction nozzle that can be driven in the first direction along the filter mesh; and a suction device connected to the suction nozzle The suction nozzle includes a nozzle body having an opening, and a belt having a suction hole that covers the opening and is driven in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction along the opening. A position detecting means for detecting the position of the suction hole in the second direction so that the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle can be changed according to the position of the suction hole detected by the position detection means. An air conditioner characterized by The cleaning ability of the suction nozzle is changed by changing the number of times of suction of the suction nozzle in the first direction according to the position of the suction hole detected by the position detection means. The air conditioner according to claim 1. The cleaning ability of the suction nozzle is changed by changing the suction amount of the suction nozzle according to the position of the suction hole detected by the position detection means. Air conditioner. The cleaning capability of the suction nozzle is changed by changing the driving speed of the suction nozzle according to the position of the suction hole detected by the position detection means. Air conditioner. A dust detection means for detecting the amount of dust adhering to the filter net is further provided, and the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle can be changed according to the amount of dust adhering detected by the dust detection means. The air conditioner according to claim 1. 6. The air according to claim 5, wherein the cleaning ability of the suction nozzle is changed by changing the suction amount of the suction nozzle according to the amount of dust attached detected by the dust detection means. Harmony machine. 6. The air according to claim 5, wherein the cleaning capability of the suction nozzle is changed by changing the driving speed of the suction nozzle according to the amount of dust attached detected by the dust detection means. Harmony machine. An air conditioner having an indoor unit that houses a heat exchanger and a fan that blows out the air heat-exchanged in the heat exchanger into the room,
A filter device comprising: a filter mesh that removes dust from the air passing through the heat exchanger; a suction nozzle that can be driven in the first direction along the filter mesh; and a suction device connected to the suction nozzle The suction nozzle includes a nozzle body having an opening, and a belt having a suction hole that covers the opening and is driven in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction along the opening. The suction nozzle is moved back and forth in the first direction to clean the first part of the filter net, and then the suction hole is moved in the second direction to move the suction nozzle to the first direction. An air having a cleaning mode in which a second portion different from the first portion of the filter mesh is cleaned by reciprocating in the direction of 1, and the entire surface of the filter mesh is cleaned by repeating this. Harmony machine. The air conditioner according to claim 8, wherein cleaning is performed sequentially from the bottom to the top of the filter net in a cleaning mode. 10. The movement of the suction nozzle and the suction hole is stopped when the suction nozzle reaches an end portion in the first direction of the filter net in the cleaning mode. Air conditioner. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the fan is operated at a lower speed than in an air conditioning operation in a cleaning mode. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein only a part of the filter net is cleaned to end the cleaning mode. The air conditioner according to claim 11 or 12, wherein when the cleaning mode ends, the suction hole is moved to a next cleaning start position and the fan is returned to an air conditioning operation. The filter device further includes a suction duct that connects the suction nozzle and the suction device, and further includes a suction duct dust discharge mode in which a suction air volume in the suction duct is increased as compared with a cleaning mode. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 8 to 13. The filter device further includes an exhaust duct connected to the suction device, and further includes an exhaust duct dust exhaust mode in which an exhaust air volume in the exhaust duct is increased as compared with that in the suction duct dust exhaust mode. The air conditioner according to claim 14. The air conditioner according to claim 15, wherein the suction device includes a suction fan, and the number of rotations of the suction fan in a cleaning mode is changed according to a length of the exhaust duct. The air conditioner according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the number of rotations of the suction fan in the suction duct dust exhaust mode or the exhaust duct dust exhaust mode is changed according to the length of the exhaust duct.

Images