KR20100120542A - Condensed water storage tank apparatus for auto cleaning device and air conditioner having the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: A condensed water storage tank apparatus for an auto cleaning device and an air conditioner having the same are provided to improve productivity by forming a component for sterilizing and cleaning an indoor heat exchanger to be one body. CONSTITUTION: A condensed water storage tank apparatus includes a housing(110), at least one flow control unit, and at least one processing unit. The housing includes a storage for a cleaning solution for the heat exchanger. The flow control unit controls the flow of the cleaning solution in the storage. The processing unit changes one of physical and chemical property by processing the cleaning solution.

Description

Cleaning liquid storage tank device of automatic washing device and air conditioner having same {CONDENSED WATER STORAGE TANK APPARATUS FOR AUTO CLEANING DEVICE AND AIR CONDITIONER HAVING THE SAME}

The present invention relates to an air conditioner, and relates to a structure of a washing liquid storage tank device of an automatic washing apparatus for sterilizing and cleaning an indoor heat exchanger using condensed water.

In general, an air conditioner is a device for cooling or heating an indoor space through a cycle consisting of a compressor, a condenser, a decompression means, and an evaporator in order to create a comfortable indoor environment by cooling and heating an indoor space.

On the other hand, condensed water is generated by heat exchange in the evaporator during cooling of the air conditioner. When the air conditioner is not operated by the condensed water, foreign matters are adsorbed on the evaporator, and microorganisms such as bacteria and mold grow.

These microorganisms cause odor and discomfort to the user when the air conditioner is operating, and thus, in recent years, an apparatus capable of automatically sterilizing an evaporator has been provided.

As an automatic washing device, a device for spraying an evaporator through an injector such as a spray using sterilizing water or washing water is provided.In recent years, an automatic washing machine that stores condensate from an evaporator in a washing liquid storage tank device and uses it as a washing liquid. Development of a washing device is in progress.

One aspect of the present invention provides a washing liquid storage tank apparatus having various functions in an automatic washing apparatus for washing and sterilizing an indoor heat exchanger using condensed water.

To this end, the washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic sterilization apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is a housing provided with a storage space for storing the washing liquid to wash the heat exchanger, and at least one for controlling the flow of the washing liquid stored in the storage space A flow control unit and at least one processing unit for treating the washing liquid stored in the storage space to change at least one of physical and chemical properties of the washing liquid, wherein the at least one flow control unit and the at least one processing unit The unit is mounted to the housing, characterized in that to constitute one assembly.

In addition, the flow control unit includes a pump unit for pumping the washing liquid to the top of the heat exchanger, and a valve unit for opening and closing the drain port provided in the housing for storage of the washing liquid in the storage space, the pump unit and the valve The unit may constitute an assembly together with the housing and the at least one processing unit.

In addition, the at least one processing unit includes an electrolyte supply unit for supplying an electrolyte to the storage space, and a sterilization water generation unit for generating a sterilization water by electrolyzing the cleaning liquid supplied with the electrolyte, the electrolyte supply unit and the The sterilizing water generation unit may constitute one assembly together with the housing and the at least one flow control unit.

The filter unit may further include a filter unit configured to filter foreign substances in the washing liquid introduced into the sterilizing water generating unit and the pump unit, wherein the filter unit is mounted to the housing, the housing, the at least one flow control unit, and the at least one. One assembly can be configured with the processing unit.

In addition, at least one of the pump unit, the sterilizing water generating unit and the valve unit may be provided outside the storage space.

In addition, at least one of the pump unit, the sterilizing water generating unit and the filter unit may be mounted in the storage space.

In addition, the bottom surface of the storage space is provided to be inclined downward toward the other side from one side, the drain hole may be formed on the other side of the bottom surface.

In addition, the sterilizing water generating unit may generate at least one of acidic water, alkaline water, silver ion water, ozone water and OH radical water through the electrolysis of the washing solution containing the electrolyte.

In addition, the filter unit may be provided detachably to the housing.

In addition, the valve unit may include a first valve for controlling the opening and closing of the drain port, and a second valve for opening and closing the electrolytic water discharge port provided in the housing for the introduction of the cleaning liquid to the pump unit side.

In addition, the valve outlet of the valve unit is disposed at a position relatively lower than the pump inlet of the pump unit, the pump outlet of the pump unit may be disposed at a position relatively lower than the electrolytic water inlet of the sterilization water generation unit. have.

In addition, a lower panel of the housing may be provided with an auxiliary panel formed with a receiving space for storing the washing solution according to the leakage in the connecting pipe connecting the valve unit, the pump unit and the sterilizing water generating unit, respectively.

In addition, the housing may be provided with an electrolytic water discharge port for discharging the cleaning liquid including the electrolyte, and a filter inserting portion which is inserted to be detachable from the filter unit on one side wall of the housing facing the electrolytic water discharge port.

In addition, the filter unit includes a filter net formed in a cylindrical shape, one end of the filter net is formed with a flange provided with a screw thread, the other end of the filter net surrounds the electrolytic water outlet and on the inner surface of the housing around the electrolytic water outlet The sealing member may be provided in close contact.

In addition, the filter unit may be provided to be pulled in / out through the open portion of the upper portion of the storage space.

In addition, the filter unit may include a rectangular filter net and a frame surrounding the edge of the filter net, and a sliding groove into which the frame is inserted may be provided on an inner side wall of the storage space facing each other.

In addition, a plurality of filter units are provided, and the filter net of at least one filter unit provided at a position adjacent to the pump unit and the sterilizing water generating unit side direction has a smaller mesh than the filter net of the other filter units. Can be formed.

The apparatus may further include a housing cover coupled to an upper side of the housing to seal an open portion of the upper portion of the storage space, and one side of the housing cover may be provided with a condensate inlet through which a washing solution is introduced.

In addition, the plurality of guide ribs protruding from one side of the inner wall of the storage space and the length of the vertical length, and a guide plate provided on one side of the housing cover to guide the washing liquid falling to the condensate inlet side to the guide rib side. have.

The guide plate may include a first plate extending downward from one side of the condensate inlet and a second plate extending downward from the end of the first plate toward the guide plate.

In addition, an upper side of the housing may be provided with an overflow hole for discharging the cleaning liquid when the cleaning liquid stored in the storage space is above a certain level.

In addition, the overflow hole may be provided to face the downward direction of the housing so that the washing liquid stored in the storage space can be vertically drained.

In addition, a communication port communicating with the overflow hole may be provided at the valve outlet of the valve unit.

In addition, the storage space includes a first storage space for storing the washing liquid for sterilization of the indoor heat exchanger, and a second storage space partitioned in the partition frame for the drainage of the cleaning liquid above a certain level stored in the first storage space. can do.

In addition, the partition frame may be provided to be spaced apart from the inner wall of the housing.

The apparatus may further include a guide unit for guiding the cleaning solution falling into the storage space to the first storage space or the second storage space.

The apparatus may further include a housing cover that seals an open portion of the upper portion of the storage space and is provided with a condensate inlet through which a washing solution is introduced.

In addition, the guide unit may include a guide member rotatably installed under the condensate inlet and having a flow path portion through which the dropped washing liquid flows, and a driving device for rotating the guide member.

An air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a main body, an indoor heat exchanger provided inside the main body, a drain pan for collecting condensate generated in the indoor heat exchanger, and a storage space for storing the condensate falling from the drain pan. And a spray unit for spraying sterilizing water into the indoor heat exchanger, wherein the housing includes an electrolyte supply unit supplying an electrolyte to the condensed water stored in the storage space, and the electrolyte. A pump unit for pumping the condensate to the injection unit, a sterilizing water generating unit for generating the sterilizing water by electrolyzing the condensate supplied with the electrolyte, and a foreign substance of the condensate flowing into the sterilizing water generating unit and the pump unit. A filter unit for filtering the wastewater and a vessel for draining the condensate stored in the storage space. The valve unit for controlling the opening and closing of the apparatus is characterized in that it comprises a cleaning liquid storage tank device kit.

In addition, the pump unit, the sterilizing water generating unit and the valve unit may be provided on the outside of the housing.

In addition, the pump unit, the sterilizing water generating unit and the filter unit may be mounted in the storage space.

In addition, the bottom surface of the storage space may be provided to be inclined downward toward the drain.

In addition, the filter unit may be provided detachably to the housing.

In addition, the housing is provided with an electrolytic water discharge port for draining the condensate containing the electrolyte, the valve unit may include a first valve for controlling the opening and closing of the drain port and a second valve for opening and closing the electrolytic water discharge port. .

The second valve may include a second valve inlet communicating with the electrolytic water outlet, and a second valve outlet communicating with the pump inlet of the pump unit, wherein the pump unit communicates with the electrolytic water inlet of the sterilizing water generating unit. It may include a pump discharge port.

In addition, the second valve outlet may be disposed at a position relatively lower than the pump inlet, and the pump outlet may be disposed at a position relatively lower than the electrolytic water inlet.

In addition, a lower panel of the housing may be provided with an auxiliary panel for collecting condensed water due to leakage in the connection pipe connecting the valve unit, the pump unit and the sterilizing water generating unit, respectively.

In addition, the housing includes an electrolytic water discharge port for draining the condensate containing the electrolyte, and a filter inserting portion provided on one side wall of the housing facing the electrolytic water discharge opening, and the filter unit is detachably provided through the filter inserting portion. Can be.

In addition, a sliding groove is provided on one side wall facing the inside of the storage space, and the filter unit is slidably provided in the sliding groove through an open portion of the upper portion of the storage space.

In addition, a plurality of the filter unit is provided, the filter network of the at least one filter unit provided at a position adjacent to the pump unit and the sterilizing water generating unit side is formed to have a smaller mesh than the filter network of the other filter unit. Can be.

The apparatus may further include a housing cover sealing an open portion of the upper portion of the storage space and coupled to the lower side of the drain pan, and one side of the housing cover may be provided with a condensate inlet communicating with the drain hole of the drain pan.

In addition, a plurality of guide ribs protruding from the inner wall may be provided at one side of the inner wall of the storage space, the length of which may be long, and a guide plate may be provided at one side of the condensate inlet to guide the condensed water falling from the drain hole to the guide rib. Can be.

In addition, the upper one side of the housing may be provided with an overflow hole for natural drainage when the condensed water above a certain level is stored in the storage space.

In addition, the overflow hole may be provided to face the downward direction of the housing so that the condensate can vertically drain.

In addition, the valve unit may include a valve outlet connected to the drain pipe for draining the condensed water to the outside space, the valve outlet may be provided with a communication port communicating with the overflow hole.

The storage space may include a first storage space for storing condensed water for sterilization of the indoor heat exchanger, and a second storage space partitioned in a partition frame for draining condensed water above a predetermined level stored in the first storage space. It may include.

The apparatus may further include a housing cover sealing an open portion of the upper portion of the storage space and coupled to the lower side of the drain pan, and one side of the housing cover may be provided with a condensate inlet communicating with the drain hole of the drain pan.

The apparatus may further include a guide unit configured to guide the condensed water dropped through the drain hole toward the first storage space or the second storage space.

In addition, the guide unit may include a guide member rotatably provided below the condensate inlet and having a flow path portion through which the condensed water flows, and a driving device to rotate the guide member.

As described above, the washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic washing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention may improve productivity since the components for sterilization and washing of the indoor heat exchanger are integrally provided as one unit.

In addition, the washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic washing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention can reduce the condensate water fall noise by a simple structure.

In addition, the washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic washing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is improved reliability as it has a structure that can prevent the overflow.

Hereinafter will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings the technical idea of the washing liquid storage tank device and the air conditioner having the automatic washing apparatus of the present embodiment as described above.

1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the approximate internal structure of FIG.

1 and 2, an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a main body 10 having a front surface open, a blowing unit 30 installed in a lower space inside the main body 10, and a main body ( 10) includes an indoor heat exchanger (40) installed in the upper space therein, and a front panel (20) covering the front of the open body (10).

Air inlets 21 for suctioning indoor air are formed on both lower sides of the front panel 20, and air outlets 23 for discharging air exchanged through the indoor heat exchanger 40 are provided on both upper sides.

The air discharge port 23 is provided with a blade 25 for adjusting the wind direction of the discharged air.

The blowing unit 30 includes a blowing fan 31 and a fan duct 33 so as to discharge the indoor air through the air inlet 21 to discharge the indoor air to the upper indoor heat exchanger 40.

The lower part of the indoor heat exchanger (40) is provided with a drain pan (50) for collecting the condensed water generated in the indoor heat exchanger (40).

On the other hand, the air conditioner of the present embodiment is provided with an automatic washing device for sterilizing or cleaning microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses, etc.) generated in the indoor heat exchanger (40).

The automatic washing apparatus includes a washing liquid storage tank device 100 provided below the drain pan 50 and a condensate stored in the washing liquid storage tank device 100 so as to store the condensed water generated by the indoor heat exchanger 40. And a spraying unit 60 provided on an upper portion of the indoor heat exchanger 40 so as to spray 40.

The washing liquid storage tank device 100 may directly recover condensate from the drain pan 50 and minimize the length of the pipe when the stored condensate is pumped to the injection unit 60 provided in the upper part of the indoor heat exchanger 40. It may be installed to be adjacent to the lower surface of the drain pan (50).

Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a washing liquid storage tank device according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 4 is a front view of the washing liquid storage tank apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 5 is an embodiment of the present invention It shows a filter unit mounted on the washing liquid storage tank device.

The washing liquid storage tank device 100 according to the present embodiment has a function of simply storing condensed water in order to sterilize and / or wash the indoor heat exchanger 40, so that the components of the automatic washing apparatus are the washing liquid storage tank device. As it is mounted on the (100) to be a kit (kit) as a unit it is possible to improve the convenience and ease of assembly when installing the automatic cleaning device in the air conditioner.

In addition, even in the event of a failure of some of the parts constituting the automatic cleaning device, it is possible to facilitate the after-sales service as the component parts are easily separated.

3 and 4, the washing liquid storage tank device 100 includes a housing 110 having a storage space 111 provided therein and an upper portion thereof.

The housing 110 is formed in a substantially box shape, and has a bottom surface 114 and a vertical frame 115 extending upward from an edge of the bottom surface 114 to form a storage space 111 in which condensed water is stored. do.

The bottom surface 114 is formed to be inclined downward at a predetermined angle α (about 2 ° to 10 °) from one side to the other side, and is located in the storage space 111 at a position adjacent to the lowermost end of the downwardly inclined bottom surface 114. A drain 129 is provided through which the stored condensed water is discharged.

The drain port 129 is provided with a valve unit 130 that controls to selectively store the condensed water in the storage space (111).

The valve unit 130 according to the present embodiment includes a normal open valve that maintains a normally open state, and includes a first valve 131 for controlling opening and closing of the drain 129.

The first valve 131 communicates with the first valve inlet 132 communicating with the drain 129 through which the condensed water stored in the storage space 111 is discharged, and the condensed water introduced through the first valve inlet 132 to the outdoor space. A first valve outlet 133 for discharging is provided.

Through this, the condensed water dropped from the drain pan 50 to the storage space 111 is guided to the drain 129 along the downwardly inclined bottom surface 114 of the first valve 131 that maintains the normally open state. After being introduced through the first valve inlet 132, it is discharged to the outdoor space through a drain pipe 124 (see FIG. 2) connected to the first valve outlet 133 of the first valve 131.

In addition, the valve unit 130 opens and closes the electrolytic water discharge port 117 (see FIG. 4) provided at one side of the housing 110 to discharge the condensed water containing the electrolyte for sterilization and washing of the indoor heat exchanger 40. It may include two valves (135).

The electrolytic water outlet 117 is connected to the second valve inlet 136 of the second valve 135 through the first connecting pipe 125 and the second valve 135 is also made of a normally open type to maintain the normally open state. .

On the other hand, the upper side of the housing 110 is equipped with an electrolyte supply unit 140 for supplying an electrolyte to the condensate stored in the storage space 111. This is because pure water such as condensate is not electrolyzed, so that an electrolyte such as sodium chloride or sodium carbonate is supplied to the condensate to form electrolytic water capable of electrolysis.

Therefore, in the case of sterilizing and / or cleaning the indoor heat exchanger 40, the valve unit 130 seals the drain port 129 and the electrolytic water discharge port 117 formed in the housing 110 to condense the condensed water in the storage space 111. The electrolyte supply unit 140 supplies electrolyte to the condensed water stored in the storage space 111 to form electrolytic water capable of electrolysis.

On the front side of the housing 110 is provided a pump unit 150 for pumping the electrolytic water stored in the storage space 111 to the top of the indoor heat exchanger 40 for sterilization and washing of the indoor heat exchanger 40, The front surface of the housing 110 in the position adjacent to the pump unit 150 is equipped with a sterilizing water generation unit 160 for generating a sterilizing water by electrolyzing the electrolytic water discharged by the pump unit 150.

The pump inlet 151 of the pump unit 150 is connected to the second valve discharge port 137 through the second connecting pipe 216, and the pump discharge port 153 of the pump unit 150 is connected to the third connection pipe ( 127 is connected to the electrolytic water inlet 161 of the sterilizing water generation unit 160.

The sterilizing water generating unit 160 is for generating acidic water, alkaline water, silver ionized water, ozone water, OH radical water, etc. through electrolysis of the condensed water containing the electrolyte stored in the storage space 111, ionized water generating unit, ozone water A generating unit and a radical generating unit may be used.

The sterilizing water generating unit 160 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be formed of an ionized water generating unit, which includes a pair of electrode plates disposed inside the case, and an ion separation membrane is installed between the electrode plates, respectively. It is an apparatus for generating alkaline ionized water and acidic ionized water by electrolyzing condensed water by applying voltages of different polarities.

When the alkaline ionized water is supplied to the indoor heat exchanger (40), it is possible to suppress the occurrence of mold which is difficult to inhabit in the alkaline region, and when the acidic ionized water is supplied to the indoor heat exchanger (40), it is difficult to inhabit in the acidic region. It is possible to suppress the occurrence of bacteria.

Accordingly, the sterilized water generating unit 160 is provided with an acidic water discharge port 163 for discharging the acidic ionized water and an alkaline water discharge port 165 for discharging the alkaline ionized water, each of which includes a fourth connection pipe 128 and a fifth connection pipe. It is connected to the injection unit 60 provided on the indoor heat exchanger 40 through the (129).

On the other hand, the sterilizing water generating unit 160 is made of an ionized water generating unit for generating acidic water and alkaline water, but is not limited to this, washing water that can sterilize the indoor heat exchanger 40, for example, platinum as an electrode material , Silver, lead oxide and platinum tantalum may be used to generate ozone water, radical water, silver ion water, and the like.

Meanwhile, the positions of the sterilizing water generating unit 160, the pump unit 150, and the valve unit 130 installed on the front surface of the housing 110 may be sequentially disposed downward from the front side of the housing 110.

That is, the electrolytic water inlet 161 of the sterilizing water generation unit 160 is provided to be disposed at a relatively high position compared to the pump outlet 153 of the pump unit 150, the pump inlet 151 of the pump unit 150 May be provided to be disposed at a relatively high position compared to the second valve discharge port 137 of the valve unit 130.

Through this, the sterilizing water is pumped to the upper side of the indoor heat exchanger 40 through the pump unit 150 to sterilize the indoor heat exchanger 40, and after the sterilization is finished, the fourth connecting pipe 128 and the fifth connecting pipe 129. The sterilization water remaining in the natural drainage to the valve unit 130 through the sterilization water generation unit 160 and the pump unit 150 can prevent the contamination by the remaining sterilization water in advance.

On the other hand, when the first, the second, the third connecting pipes (125, 126, 127) connecting the valve unit 130, the pump unit 150 and the sterilizing water generating unit 160, respectively, in the lower portion of the housing 110, When leakage of condensate from the connecting pipes 125, 126, and 127 occurs, an auxiliary panel 170 for collecting condensate may be provided.

The auxiliary panel 170 has a valve unit 130, a pump unit 150, and a sterilizing water generating unit 160 mounted on the front of the housing 110 at a lower portion of the housing 110, and connecting pipes 125, 126, and 127 connecting them. It is formed to have a receiving space (171) that can include all of.

In addition, although not shown in the present embodiment, a receiving sensor (not shown) for detecting leakage of condensate may be provided in the accommodation space 171 of the auxiliary panel 170.

Therefore, the housing 110 of the present embodiment includes a flow control unit including a pump unit 150 and / or a valve unit 130 to control the flow of the washing liquid stored in the storage space 111, and the storage space 111. A treatment unit composed of the electrolyte supply unit 140 and / or the sterilizing water generating unit 160 is mounted to process the stored washing liquid to change at least one of physical and chemical properties of the washing liquid to form one assembly.

On the other hand, one side of the housing 110 may be detachably provided with a filter unit 180 for filtering foreign matter contained in the condensate stored in the storage space 111.

As shown in FIG. 5, the filter unit 180 detachable to the housing 110 according to the present exemplary embodiment may filter foreign substances of condensed water discharged to the electrolytic water discharge port 117 when the indoor heat exchanger 40 is washed. It may be provided to surround the electrolytic water discharge port 117.

To this end, a filter inserting portion 118 into which the filter unit 180 is inserted may be provided at one side wall of the housing 110 facing the electrolytic water discharge port 117.

The filter unit 180 includes a filter net 181 having a substantially cylindrical shape, one end of the filter net 181 is provided with a threaded flange portion 182, the flange portion 182 protrudes outward A handle 184 may be provided.

The other end of the filter net 181 may be provided with a sealing member 185, such as a rubber ring, that surrounds an adjacent portion of the electrolytic water outlet 117 and is in close contact with the inner surface of the housing 110 in which the electrolytic water outlet 117 is formed.

In addition, when the filter unit 180 is mounted on the outer circumferential surface of the flange portion 182 of the filter unit 180, a sealing member 183 may be provided to prevent leakage of condensate.

As a result, the filter unit 180 is inserted into the filter inserting portion 118 and then rotates the handle 184 so that the thread of the flange portion 182 is coupled to the female thread formed on the inner circumferential surface of the filter inserting portion 118. In this case, the sealing member 185 provided at the other end of the filter net 181 is in close contact with the inner surface of the housing 110 in which the electrolytic water outlet 117 is formed to surround the electrolytic water outlet 117 to the electrolytic water outlet 117. It is possible to filter foreign substances in the discharged condensate.

Therefore, since the mounting and detachment of the filter unit 180 is made simple, it is possible to facilitate the cleaning of the filter net 181.

Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 3, a housing cover 190 for sealing an open portion of the upper portion of the storage space 111 is provided at the upper side of the housing 110, and a drain pan 50 is provided at one side of the housing cover 190. The condensed water inlet 191 is opened so that the condensed water collected in the) can be introduced into the storage space 111 side.

The condensate inlet 191 may be provided at a position corresponding to the drain hole 51 formed in the drain pan 50 so that the condensed water falling from the drain hole 51 may be directly collected in the storage space 111.

3 and 5, the washing liquid storage tank apparatus according to the present embodiment is to prevent the falling water noise generated when the condensate falls from the drain hole 51 to the storage space 111 of the housing 110. The noise preventing member may be provided.

Falling noise preventing member according to the present embodiment is formed on the inner wall of the storage space 111, the plurality of guide ribs 125 and the length of the vertical length and the guide ribs 125 to the condensate falling from the drain hole (51) It includes a guide plate 126 extending from one side of the condensate inlet 191 of the housing cover 190 to guide to the side.

The guide rib 125 extends downward from the upper side of the inner wall of the housing 110, that is, to a position adjacent to the bottom surface 114 of the storage space 111, and between the plurality of guide ribs 125 formed at a predetermined interval. The spacing forms a spacing smaller than the diameter of the water droplets (about 3 mm) that make up the condensate depending on the surface tension.

Referring to FIG. 6, the guide plate 126 is for guiding condensate falling from the drain hole 51 toward the guide rib 125, and extends downward from one side of the condensate inlet 191. And a second plate 128 extending inclined downward from the end of the first plate 127 toward the guide rib 125.

The gap between the guide rib 125 and the end of the second plate 128 is also formed relatively small compared to the diameter of the water droplets.

The guide plate 126 in the present embodiment is the first and second plates 127 and 128 to minimize the gap between the end 53 of the drain hole 51 and the second plate 128 to reduce the noise of falling condensate. Although configured to be made, it is natural that the first plate 127 may extend from one side of the condensate inlet 191 to guide the condensate toward the guide rib 125 and be inclined downward toward the guide rib 125.

Through this configuration, as shown in FIG. 6, the condensed water collected in the drain pan 50 falls downward through the drain hole 51, and the dropped condensed water is guide ribs 125 along the second plate 128. After being guided to the side and flows to the bottom surface 114 of the storage space 111 on the wall of the space between the plurality of guide ribs 125, the falling noise of condensate water flowing from the drain pan 50 to the storage space 111 side Can be prevented.

On the other hand, although not shown in the present embodiment, the storage space 111 of the housing 110 is provided with a water level sensor (not shown) for detecting the amount of condensed water stored in the storage space 111 when the amount of condensed water is a certain level It may be provided to inform the user through an alarm lamp.

In addition, referring to FIG. 3, the upper one side of the housing 110 in which the storage space 111 is provided may prevent the condensate stored in the storage space 111 from overflowing due to a malfunction or failure of a water level sensor (not shown). In order to be above a certain level so that the overflow hole 119 to drain the condensate may be provided.

The overflow hole 119 is provided to communicate with the first valve outlet 133 of the valve unit 130 through the overflow pipe 138 as shown in FIG. That is, the communication port 134 communicating with the first valve outlet 133 is provided at the first valve outlet 133, and the communication port 134 and the overflow hole 119 are formed by the overflow pipe 138. Connected.

As a result, when the condensed water stored in the storage space 111 reaches a predetermined level or more, the condensed water is introduced into the first valve outlet 133 through the overflow hole 119 and then discharged to the outdoor space along the drain pipe 124. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the damage of the product due to overflow of the condensate in the storage space 111.

On the other hand, the overflow hole 119 in this embodiment is provided to face in a horizontal direction with the vertical frame 115 of the housing 110, as shown in Figure 3 is to horizontally drain the condensate stored in the storage space 111 Although the structure is formed, the present invention is not limited thereto, and condensate may be vertically drained.

That is, as shown in FIG. 7, the storage space 111 is provided with an overflow surface 120 extending horizontally from the inner surface 116 of the vertical frame 115 to the storage space 111, and the overflow surface. An overflow hole 119 may be formed in the 120 perpendicular to the overflow surface 120.

The overflow surface 120 becomes a reference surface of the water level where the condensate stored in the storage space 111 overflows, and the overflow hole 119 when the condensate is stored in the storage space 111 and exceeds the overflow surface 120. ) To drain quickly.

On the other hand, although not shown in the present embodiment, the flow path for guiding the inflow of condensate into the overflow hole 119 is provided on the overflow surface 120, or the overflow surface 120 is formed to be inclined downward toward the overflow hole 119. Can be.

Therefore, when the overflow hole 119 forms a horizontal drainage structure, condensate must be stored above the level at which the overflow hole 119 is disposed due to surface tension and flow path resistance of the condensate. When drained through, but when forming a vertical drainage structure, the condensate stored above the set overflow level can be drained directly through the overflow hole 119 by its own weight, so that the reliability of the washing liquid storage tank device is further improved.

8 to 10 show an overflow structure of the washing liquid storage tank apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the same reference numerals are assigned to components having the same function and configuration, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

8 and 9, the storage space 111 inside the housing 110 is a first storage for storing condensed water during the sterilization mode by the partition frame 121 extending upward from the bottom surface 114. And a second storage space 113 for draining the condensate when the condensed water having a predetermined level or more is stored in the space 112 and the first storage space 112.

The partition frame 121 is formed to have a predetermined height H from the bottom surface 114 such that the condensate stored in the first storage space 112 overflows when a predetermined level or more is exceeded. That is, the height (H) of the partition frame 121 is a water level reference plane that the condensate overflows.

In addition, the partition frame 121 has a cross-sectional square shape so that the condensate stored in the first storage space 112 can increase the flow rate of the condensate flowing into the second storage space 113 side beyond the partition frame 121. Can be prepared.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, the partition frame 121 has a first frame 122 extending inwardly from one side wall 116 of the housing 110, and from the front surface of the housing 110 to the inside. An extended second frame 123 is provided.

As a result, the condensed water flowing into the second storage space 113 from the first storage space 112 is introduced into the second storage space 113 through the upper surfaces of the first frame 122 and the second frame 123. The amount of overflow increases (arrow direction), so that the condensate can be drained more quickly.

In addition, in the present exemplary embodiment, the first and second frames 122 and 123 extending from the inner wall of the housing 110 are provided so that the partition frame 121 is formed by one inner wall and the first and second frames 122 and 123 of the housing 110. Although formed to form a rectangular frame, as shown in FIG. 11, it is natural that the partition frame 121 having four independent surfaces separated from the inner wall of the housing 110 may be formed into a rectangular frame. In this case, the amount of condensed water (arrow direction) flowing from the first storage space 112 to the second storage space 113 side at the time of overflow increases.

In addition, the cross-section of the partition frame 121 forming the second storage space 113 is configured to form a rectangular frame, but is not limited to this may be formed in the shape such as oval, rectangular, polygonal.

Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 8, the condensed water inlet 191 of the housing cover 190 selectively sends condensed water falling from the drain hole 51 to the first storage space 112 or the second storage space 113. The guide unit 200 for guiding may be provided.

The guide unit 200 includes a guide member 210 rotatably installed inside the condensate inlet 191 and a driving device 230 for rotating the guide member 210.

The guide member 210 has a substantially blade shape and includes a flow path 211 through which condensed water flows and a rotation shaft 213 coupled to the drive shaft 231 of the driving device 230.

The driving device 230 may be formed of a forward and reverse rotation motor or a speed control step motor, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and any device may be used as long as the guide member 210 may be forward and reverse rotation.

As a result, as shown in FIG. 9, when the condensed water collected in the drain pan 50 falls into the condensed water inlet 191 through the drain hole 51, the guide member 210 rotates so that the indoor heat exchanger 40 rotates. ) To adjust the inflow direction of the condensate water toward the first storage space 112 for storing the condensate for washing or the second storage space 113 for draining the condensate.

That is, in the case of sterilizing the indoor heat exchanger 40, the valve unit 130 closes the drain port 129, and the guide member 210 rotates to guide the condensed water falling to the first storage space 112. When the condensate is stored, and the sterilization is not required, the guide member 210 rotates (solid line) to guide the condensed water to the second storage space 113 to the bottom of the second storage space 113. It flows to the drain pipe 124 side through the overflow hole 119 formed in the surface.

12 and 13 show a washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic washing apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the same reference numerals are assigned to components having the same function, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

12 and 13, the washing liquid storage tank device of the present embodiment is a filter unit in the storage space 111 inside the housing 110 to more efficiently use the design space inside the main body 10 of the air conditioner. 300, the sterilizing water generating unit 160 and the pump unit 150 may be mounted.

To this end, one side of the bottom surface 114 of the storage space 111 is provided with a pump unit installation unit 155 for the installation of the pump unit 150, one side of the inner wall of the vertical frame 115, the sterilizing water generating unit ( A sterilization water generation unit installation unit 167 for installation of the 160 is provided.

The pump unit mounting portion 155 is provided on the upper side of the bottom surface 114 inclined downward toward the drain port 129, the sterilization water generating unit mounting portion 167 is provided at a position adjacent to the pump unit mounting portion 155. Can be.

On the other hand, although not shown in the present embodiment, the pump unit installation unit 155 may be provided with a dustproof member (not shown) for reducing the generation of vibration to the housing 110 when the pump unit 150 is driven.

The pump unit 150 may use an underwater pump unit that can be electrically used even in condensed water stored in the storage space 111, and the sterilization water generating unit 160 may be made of an electrode material that generates OH radical water or ozone water. Can be.

On the other hand, the filter unit 300 of the present embodiment may be provided to be able to slide in and out through the open portion of the storage space 111, for this purpose, the filter unit 300 on one side of the inner wall of the vertical frame 115 facing A filter installation unit 186 having a sliding groove 187 inserted thereinto may be provided.

That is, the filter unit 300 includes a filter net 310 for filtering foreign matter contained in the condensate, and a square frame 320 surrounding the edge of the filter net 310.

As a result, when the filter unit 180 is mounted, both sides of the rectangular frame 320 are inserted into the sliding groove 187 as shown in FIG.

Meanwhile, a plurality of filter units 300 may be provided, and as shown in FIG. 13, the first filter unit 301 provided at a position adjacent to the condensate inlet 191 provided at the housing cover 190 and the sterilizing water may be provided. The second filter unit 302 may be provided at a position adjacent to the generating unit 160 and the pump unit 150.

In addition, the second filter net 313 of the second filter unit 302 may be provided to have a smaller mesh structure than the first filter net 311 of the first filter unit 301.

As a result, large foreign matters contained in the condensate are first filtered by the first filter net 311, and fine foreign matter introduced through the first filter net 311 is filtered through the second filter net 313, and then sterilized water is generated. Since the unit 160 and the pump unit 150 are introduced into the side, reliability of the sterilizing water generating unit 160 and the pump unit 150 may be improved.

On the other hand, the drain 129 is provided with a valve unit 330 for opening and closing the drain 129 in the storage space 111 for the storage of condensate, the valve unit 330 is made of a normal open type to maintain the normally open state. .

The valve inlet 331 of the valve unit 330 is in communication with the drain 129, the valve outlet 333 is connected to the drain pipe 124 for draining the condensate to the outdoor space.

In addition, the valve outlet 333 may be provided with a communication port 335 in communication with the overflow hole 119.

1 is a perspective view showing a schematic appearance of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a perspective view schematically showing the internal structure of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a washing liquid storage tank device of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a front view of the washing liquid storage tank device of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 5 shows a filter unit mounted on the washing liquid storage tank device of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 6 shows the operating state of the fall noise preventing member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 7 shows an overflow hole of the washing liquid storage tank apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

8 to 10 show an overflow structure of the washing liquid storage tank apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 11 shows a partition frame forming a second storage space of another embodiment of the present invention.

12 is an exploded perspective view showing a washing liquid storage tank device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

13 is a cross-sectional view showing a washing liquid storage tank apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols on the main parts of the drawings

10: main body, 40: indoor heat exchanger,

50: drain pan, 51: drain hole,

60: injection unit, 100: washing liquid storage tank device,

110: housing, 111: storage,

112: first storage space, 113: second storage space,

117: electrolytic water discharge outlet, 118: filter insert,

119: overflow hole, 121: partition frame,

125: guide rib 126: guide plate,

130: valve unit, 134: communication port,

140: electrolyte supply unit, 150: pump unit,

160: sterilizing water generating unit, 170: auxiliary panel,

180: filter unit, 190: housing cover,

210: guide member, 230: drive device.

Claims (48)

A housing provided with a storage space for storing a washing liquid to wash the heat exchanger; At least one flow control unit controlling a flow of the washing liquid stored in the storage space; And at least one treatment unit treating the washing liquid stored in the storage space to change at least one of physical and chemical properties of the washing liquid. And said at least one flow control unit and said at least one processing unit are mounted to said housing to constitute one assembly. The method of claim 1, The flow control unit includes a pump unit for pumping the washing liquid to the top of the heat exchanger, and a valve unit for opening and closing the drain hole provided in the housing for storing the washing liquid in the storage space, The pump unit and the valve unit is a washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic cleaning device, characterized in that the assembly with the housing and the at least one processing unit constitutes one assembly. The method of claim 2, The at least one processing unit includes an electrolyte supply unit for supplying an electrolyte to the storage space, and a sterilization water generation unit for generating a sterilization water by electrolyzing the cleaning liquid supplied with the electrolyte, And the electrolyte supply unit and the sterilizing water generating unit constitute one assembly together with the housing and the at least one flow control unit. The method of claim 3, wherein Further comprising a filter unit for filtering foreign substances of the washing liquid flowing into the sterilizing water generating unit and the pump unit, The filter unit is mounted on the housing cleaning liquid storage tank device of the automatic cleaning device to form an assembly with the housing, the at least one flow control unit and the at least one processing unit. The method of claim 4, wherein At least one of the pump unit, the sterilizing water generating unit and the valve unit is provided with a washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic washing apparatus, characterized in that provided on the outside of the storage space. The method of claim 4, wherein At least one of the pump unit, the sterilizing water generating unit and the filter unit is a washing liquid storage tank device, characterized in that mounted in the storage space. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 6, The bottom surface of the storage space is inclined downward from one side toward the other side, the other side of the bottom surface of the washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic washing apparatus, characterized in that the drain port is formed. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 6, The sterilizing water generating unit is a washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic washing apparatus, characterized in that for generating at least one of acidic water, alkaline water, silver ion water, ozone water and OH radical water through the electrolysis of the wash liquid containing the electrolyte. The method of claim 4, wherein The filter unit is a washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic washing apparatus, characterized in that detachable provided in the housing. The method of claim 5, The valve unit includes a first valve for controlling opening and closing of the drain port, and a second valve for opening and closing the electrolytic water discharge port provided in the housing for the inflow of the washing liquid to the pump unit. Tank device. The method of claim 5, The valve outlet of the valve unit is disposed at a position relatively lower than the pump inlet of the pump unit, and the pump outlet of the pump unit is disposed at a position relatively lower than the electrolytic water inlet of the sterilization water generating unit. Liquid storage tank device for automatic washing. The method of claim 5, The washing liquid of the automatic washing apparatus is provided in the lower portion of the housing is provided with a receiving space for storing the washing liquid in accordance with the leakage in the connecting pipe connecting the valve unit, the pump unit and the sterilizing water generating unit, respectively Storage tank device. The method of claim 5, The housing is provided with an electrolytic water discharge port for discharging the cleaning liquid including the electrolyte, and a filter inserting portion that is inserted to be detachable to the filter unit is provided on one side wall of the housing facing the electrolytic water discharge port. Cleaning fluid storage tank device. The method of claim 13, The filter unit includes a filter net formed in a cylindrical shape, one end of the filter net is formed with a flange provided with a screw thread, the other end of the filter net is wrapped around the electrolytic water discharge port is in close contact with the inner surface of the housing around the electrolytic water discharge port Washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic cleaning device, characterized in that the sealing member is provided. The method of claim 6, The filter unit is a washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic cleaning device, characterized in that provided in / out through the open portion of the upper portion of the storage space. The method of claim 15, The filter unit includes a rectangular filter net and a frame surrounding the edge of the filter net, the washing liquid storage of the automatic washing apparatus, characterized in that a sliding groove into which the frame is inserted is provided on an inner side wall of the storage space facing each other. Tank device. The method of claim 16, The filter unit is provided with a plurality, the filter unit of the at least one filter unit provided at a position adjacent to the pump unit and the sterilizing water generation unit side direction is formed to have a smaller mesh than the filter network of the remaining filter unit Washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic cleaning device. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, Washing liquid storage tank of the automatic washing apparatus further comprises a housing cover coupled to the upper side of the housing to seal the open portion of the upper portion of the storage space, one side of the housing cover is provided with a condensate inlet through which the cleaning liquid is introduced Device. The method of claim 18, A plurality of guide ribs protruding from one side of the inner wall of the storage space and having a vertical length, and a guide plate provided on one side of the housing cover to guide the washing liquid falling to the condensate inlet side to the guide rib side. Cleaning liquid storage tank. The method of claim 19, The guide plate may include a first plate extending downward from one side of the condensate inlet and a second plate extending obliquely downward from the end of the first plate toward the guide plate. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 6, Washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic cleaning device, characterized in that the upper side of the housing is provided with an overflow hole for discharging the washing liquid when the washing liquid stored in the storage space is above a certain level. The method of claim 21, The overflow hole is a washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic cleaning device, characterized in that it is provided to face the downward direction of the housing so that the washing liquid stored in the storage space vertically drained. The method of claim 21, Washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic cleaning device, characterized in that the communication port communicating with the overflow hole is provided in the valve outlet of the valve unit. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The storage space includes a first storage space for storing the washing liquid for sterilization or washing of the heat exchanger, and a second storage space partitioned in the partition frame for draining the washing liquid above a predetermined level stored in the first storage space. Washing liquid storage tank device of automatic washing device. The method of claim 24, The partition frame is a washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic washing apparatus, characterized in that spaced apart from the inner wall of the housing. The method of claim 24, And a guide unit for guiding the cleaning solution falling into the storage space to the first storage space or the second storage space. The method of claim 26, The washing liquid storage tank device of the automatic washing apparatus further comprises a housing cover for sealing the open portion of the upper portion of the storage space and the condensate inlet through which the washing liquid flows. 28. The method of claim 27, The guide unit is rotatably installed in the lower portion of the condensate inlet, the cleaning liquid storage tank device of the automatic washing apparatus including a guide member having a flow path portion flowing through the falling washing liquid, and a driving device for rotating the guide member. A washing liquid storage tank apparatus having a main body, an indoor heat exchanger provided in the main body, a drain pan for collecting condensate generated by the indoor heat exchanger, and a housing having a storage space for storing the condensate falling from the drain pan; And an injection unit for injecting sterilizing water into the indoor heat exchanger, The housing includes an electrolytic material supply unit for supplying an electrolyte to the condensate stored in the storage space, a pump unit for pumping the condensate containing the electrolyte toward the injection unit, and electrolytic decomposition of the condensate supplied with the electrolyte to sterilize water. Equipped with a sterilizing water generating unit to generate, a filter unit for filtering foreign substances of the condensate flowing into the sterilizing water generating unit and the pump unit side, and a valve unit for controlling the opening and closing of the drain for draining the condensate stored in the storage space Air conditioner, characterized in that to form one assembly. The method of claim 29, At least one of the pump unit, the sterilizing water generation unit and the valve unit is provided with an air conditioner, characterized in that the outer side of the storage space. The method of claim 29, At least one of the pump unit, the sterilizing water generating unit and the filter unit is provided in the storage space air conditioner. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 31, An air conditioner, characterized in that the bottom surface of the storage space is provided inclined downward toward the drain. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 31, And the filter unit is detachably provided in the housing. 31. The method of claim 30, The housing is provided with an electrolytic water discharge port for draining the condensate containing the electrolyte, the valve unit comprises a first valve for controlling the opening and closing of the drain port and a second valve for opening and closing the electrolytic water discharge port. The method of claim 34, The second valve includes a second valve inlet communicating with the electrolytic water outlet and a second valve outlet communicating with the pump inlet of the pump unit, wherein the pump unit communicates with the electrolytic water inlet of the sterilizing water generating unit. An air conditioner including a discharge port. 36. The method of claim 35, And the second valve outlet is disposed at a position relatively lower than the pump inlet, and the pump outlet is disposed at a position relatively lower than the electrolytic water inlet. The method of claim 36, And an auxiliary panel provided at a lower portion of the housing to collect condensed water due to leakage from a connecting pipe connecting the valve unit, the pump unit, and the sterilizing water generating unit, respectively. 31. The method of claim 30, The housing includes an electrolytic water discharge port for draining the condensate containing the electrolyte, and a filter inserting portion provided at one side wall of the housing facing the electrolytic water discharge opening, and the filter unit is detachably provided through the filter inserting portion. Air conditioner. 32. The method of claim 31, A sliding groove is provided on one side wall facing the inside of the storage space, and the filter unit is slidably provided in the sliding groove through an open portion of the upper portion of the storage space and detachable from the air conditioner. 40. The method of claim 39, The filter unit may be provided in plurality, and at least one filter net of the filter unit provided at a position adjacent to the pump unit and the sterilizing water generating unit is formed to have a smaller mesh than the filter net of the other filter units. Air conditioner. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 31, And a housing cover sealing the open portion of the upper portion of the storage space and coupled to the lower side of the drain pan, wherein one side of the housing cover is provided with a condensate inlet communicating with the drain hole of the drain pan. group. 42. The method of claim 41 wherein A plurality of guide ribs protruding from the inner wall are provided at one side of the inner wall of the storage space, and the guide plate is formed at one side of the condensate inlet to guide the condensed water dropped from the drain hole to the side of the guide rib. Air conditioner. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 31, The upper one side of the housing is an air conditioner, characterized in that the overflow hole for natural drainage is provided when the condensate is stored above a certain level in the storage space. The method of claim 43, The overflow hole is an air conditioner, characterized in that it is provided to face the downward direction of the housing so that the condensate can vertically drain. The method of claim 43, The valve unit includes a valve outlet connected to the drain pipe for draining the condensate to the outer space, the valve outlet is characterized in that the communication hole is provided with the communication hole communicating with the overflow hole. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 31, The storage space includes a first storage space for storing condensed water for sterilization or washing of the indoor heat exchanger, and a second storage space partitioned in a partition frame for draining condensed water above a predetermined level stored in the first storage space. Air conditioning. The method of claim 46, And a housing cover sealing the open portion of the upper portion of the storage space and coupled to the lower side of the drain pan, wherein one side of the housing cover is provided with a condensate inlet communicating with the drain hole of the drain pan. group. The method of claim 47, Further comprising a guide unit for guiding the condensed water falling through the drain hole toward the first storage space or the second storage space, the guide unit is provided rotatably in the lower portion of the condensate inlet flows through the flow path portion An air conditioner comprising a guide member provided, and a drive device for rotating the guide member.

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