WO2022255306A1

WO2022255306A1 - Air-conditioning apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2022255306A1
Application number: PCT/JP2022/021945
Authority: WO
Inventors: 智己齋藤; 聖史黒井; 利夫田中; 千佳小山; 衛奥本
Original assignee: ダイキン工業株式会社
Priority date: 2021-06-03
Filing date: 2022-05-30
Publication date: 2022-12-08
Also published as: JP2022186636A; CN117396707A; US20240093887A1; JP7461409B2

Abstract

This air-conditioning apparatus (10) comprises a radiation device (70) having an LED (72) that radiates ultraviolet rays, and a heat-dissipating unit (F, 91, 92) that dissipates the heat of the radiation device (70) into air.

Description

air conditioner

The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner.

Conventionally, there are irradiation devices that have LEDs that irradiate ultraviolet rays. LEDs generate a large amount of heat, and their characteristics change rapidly with changes in temperature. Therefore, in Patent Document 1, the LED is cooled by a Peltier element to suppress the temperature rise of the LED.

JP 2020-177774 A

In Patent Document 1, a device such as a Peltier device is required to cool the LED, which complicates the configuration of the device.

An object of the present disclosure is to enable LEDs to be cooled with a simple configuration.

A first aspect comprises an irradiation device (70) having an LED (72) for irradiating ultraviolet rays, and a heat radiating section (F, 91, 92) for releasing heat of the irradiation device (70) to the air. It is an air conditioner.

In the first aspect, when the LED (72) generates heat, the heat radiation part (F, 91, 92) releases the heat of the irradiation device (70) to the air. Therefore, the LED (72) can be cooled with a simple configuration.

A second aspect is, in the first aspect, a heat exchanger (40) having a plurality of fins (F) as the heat radiating section and exchanging heat between air and a heat medium, and the irradiation device (70). and a heat conducting part (75) connecting the fins (F).

In the second aspect, when the LED (72) generates heat, this heat is transferred from the irradiation device (70) to the fins (F) of the heat exchanger (40) via the heat conducting portion (75). Since the fins (F) have a relatively large heat transfer area, the heat of the LED can be released to the air through the fins (F).

A third aspect, in the second aspect, includes a control section (100) that turns on the irradiation device (70) during cooling operation in which air is cooled by the heat exchanger (40).

In the third aspect, when the irradiation device (70) is turned on during the cooling operation, the heat of the LED (72) can be transferred to the heat medium through the heat conducting portion (75) and the fins (F). can.

A fourth aspect is the second or third aspect, further comprising a controller (100) that turns on the irradiation device (70) during heating operation in which air is heated by the heat exchanger (40). .

In the fourth aspect, when the irradiation device (70) is turned on during the heating operation, the heat of the LED (72) can be transferred to the heat medium through the heat conducting portion (75) and the fins (F). can. Since the temperature of the LED (72) is higher than the temperature of the heat medium during the heating operation, the temperature rise of the LED (72) can be suppressed.

In a fifth aspect, in any one of the second to fourth aspects, the output of the irradiation device (70) during cooling operation in which air is cooled by the heat exchanger (40) is 40) for heating the air to a higher output than the output of the irradiation device (70) during heating operation.

Since cooling operation is generally performed under high temperature and high humidity conditions, bacteria and mold are likely to grow inside the air conditioner (10). In the fifth aspect, since the output of the irradiation device (70) is relatively large during cooling operation, the generation of these bacteria and molds can be suppressed. The temperature of the fins (F) during cooling operation is lower than that during heating operation. Therefore, heat generation of the irradiation device (70) can be more effectively suppressed during cooling operation. As a result, the output of the LED (72) of the irradiation device (70) can be increased during cooling.

According to a sixth aspect, in any one of the second to fifth aspects, a controller (100) is provided that turns on the irradiation device (70) when the operation of the air conditioner (10) is stopped.

When the operation of the air conditioner (10) is stopped, bacteria and mold are likely to grow inside the air conditioner (10). In the sixth aspect, the irradiation device (70) is turned on when the operation of the air conditioner (10) is stopped, so the generation of these bacteria and molds can be suppressed.

According to a seventh aspect, in any one of the second to sixth aspects, a drain pan (60) is provided, and the irradiation device (70) irradiates the ultraviolet rays toward the drain pan (60).

In the seventh aspect, the drain pan (60) can be sterilized by the ultraviolet rays emitted by the LED (72). This can suppress the growth of bacteria and mold in the drain pan (60).

According to an eighth aspect, in any one of the second to seventh aspects, the irradiation device (70) irradiates the ultraviolet rays toward the heat exchanger (40).

In the eighth aspect, the heat exchanger (40) can be sterilized by ultraviolet light emitted from the LED (72). As a result, the heat exchanger (40) can be inhibited from generating bacteria and mold.

A ninth aspect according to any one of the second to eighth aspects is provided with a fan (50) that conveys air, and the irradiation device (70) moves toward the air conveyed by the fan (50). Irradiate with UV rays.

In the ninth aspect, the air can be sterilized by the ultraviolet rays emitted by the LED (72). As a result, sterilized air can be supplied to the air-conditioned space.

According to a tenth aspect, in any one of the second to ninth aspects, the heat exchanger (40) is configured to cool air with the heat medium, and the irradiation device (70) is configured to cool the heat It is arranged upstream of the air flow from the exchanger (40).

Condensed water is generated in the heat exchanger (40) due to cooling of the air. In the tenth aspect, it is possible to prevent the condensed water from adhering to the irradiation device (70).

In the eleventh aspect according to any one of the second to tenth aspects, the LED (72) faces the downstream side of the air flow.

In the eleventh aspect, it is possible to prevent dust in the air from adhering to the surface of the LED (72).

A twelfth aspect is any one of the second to eleventh aspects, wherein the heat conducting portion (75) is a part of the fin (F).

In the twelfth aspect, since the fins (F) also serve as the heat conducting portion (75), the number of parts can be reduced.

A thirteenth aspect, in the first aspect, comprises a heat conducting portion (75) connecting the irradiation device (70) and the heat radiating portion (F, 91, 92).

In the thirteenth aspect, when the LED (72) generates heat, this heat is transferred from the irradiation device (70) to the heat dissipation part (F, 91, 92) through the heat conduction part (75). A heat sink (F, 91, 92) releases this heat to the air.

According to a fourteenth aspect, in the thirteenth aspect, at least one of the heat radiating portion (F, 91, 92) and the heat conducting portion (75) is made of a metal material.

In the fourteenth aspect, at least one of the heat radiating portion (F, 91, 92) and the heat conducting portion (75) is made of a metal material and has excellent thermal conductivity, so that the heat of the LED (72) is quickly released to the air. can.

According to a fifteenth aspect, in the thirteenth or fourteenth aspect, at least one of the heat conducting portion (75) and the heat conducting portion (75) has a thermal conductivity of 80 w/m·K or more.

In the fifteenth aspect, the heat of the LED (72) can be quickly released to the air.

According to a sixteenth aspect, in any one of the first to fifteenth aspects, a casing (31) having an air passage (34) formed therein is provided, and the heat radiating portion (F, 91, 92) It includes a first heat radiating member (91) fixed to the inner surface of (31).

In the sixteenth aspect, when the LED (72) generates heat, the heat of the irradiation device (70) is released to the air via the first heat radiation member (91) fixed to the inner surface of the casing (31). Since the installation area for the first heat radiation member (91) can be secured on the inner surface of the casing (31), the heat radiation area of the heat radiation part (F, 91, 92) can be expanded, and the heat radiation of the heat radiation part (F, 91, 92) can be increased. can improve performance.

In a seventeenth aspect based on the sixteenth aspect, the first heat radiation member (91) includes a metal plate or a metal tape.

In the seventeenth aspect, by using a metal plate or a metal tape as the first heat radiation member (91), the heat radiation portions (F, 91, 92) can be easily formed on the inner surface of the casing (31).

According to an eighteenth aspect, in any one of the first to fifteenth aspects, a casing (31) having an air passage (34) formed therein is provided, and the heat radiating portion (F, 91, 92) (31) includes a second heat dissipating member (92) constituted by a portion of (31).

In the eighteenth aspect, since the casing (31) also serves as the heat radiating section (F, 91, 92), the number of parts can be reduced.

FIG. 1 is a schematic piping system diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the internal structure of the indoor unit. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the mounting structure of the irradiation device as viewed from the front side. FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an air conditioner. FIG. 5 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 1 according to Modification 1. As shown in FIG. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the internal structure of an indoor unit according to Modification 3. FIG. FIG. 7 is a schematic configuration diagram of a heat conducting portion and fins according to a first example of modification 5. As shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a schematic configuration diagram of a heat conducting portion and fins according to a second example of modification 5. As shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the indoor unit of Modification 6. As shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the indoor unit of Modification 7. As shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the indoor unit of Modification 8. FIG.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible without departing from the technical idea of the present disclosure. Each drawing is for the purpose of conceptually explaining the present disclosure, and therefore dimensions, ratios or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary for ease of understanding.

(1) Overall Configuration of Air Conditioner Fig. 1 is a schematic piping system diagram of an air conditioner (10). The air conditioner (10) adjusts the temperature of the air in the target space. The target space is the indoor space (I). The air conditioner (10) performs cooling operation and heating operation. In cooling operation, the air conditioner (10) cools the air in the indoor space (I). In heating operation, the air conditioner (10) heats the air in the indoor space (I).

The air conditioner (10) has a refrigerant circuit (11). The refrigerant circuit (11) is filled with refrigerant. The refrigerant circuit (11) performs a refrigeration cycle by circulating refrigerant. The refrigerant is, for example, R32 (difluoromethane).

The air conditioner (10) includes an outdoor unit (20), an indoor unit (30), a first communication pipe (12), and a second communication pipe (13). The air conditioner (10) of this example is of a pair type having one outdoor unit (20) and one indoor unit (30). The outdoor unit (20) includes a compressor (21), an outdoor heat exchanger (22), an expansion valve (23), a four-way switching valve (24), and an outdoor fan (25). The indoor unit (30) includes an indoor heat exchanger (40) and an indoor fan (50).

The first communication pipe (12) and the second communication pipe (13) connect the indoor unit (30) and the outdoor unit (20) to each other. The first communication pipe (12) is a gas pipe, and the second communication pipe (13) is a liquid pipe. The first communication pipe (12) is connected to the gas end of the indoor heat exchanger (40). The second communication pipe (13) is connected to the liquid end of the indoor heat exchanger (40).

The air conditioner (10) has an irradiation device (70). The irradiation device (70) irradiates ultraviolet rays to disinfect a predetermined target.

(2) Outdoor unit The compressor (21) compresses refrigerant. The compressor (21) is a rotary compressor. The rotary compressor (21) is configured by an oscillating type, a rolling piston type, a scroll type, or the like.

The outdoor heat exchanger (22) exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the outdoor air. The outdoor heat exchanger (22) is of the fin and tube type.

The outdoor fan (25) conveys outdoor air. Air carried by the outdoor fan (25) passes through the outdoor heat exchanger (22). The outdoor fan (25) is a propeller fan.

The expansion valve (23) reduces the pressure of the refrigerant. The expansion valve (23) is an electronic or temperature sensitive expansion valve.

The four-way switching valve (24) reverses the flow of refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (11). The four-way switching valve (24) switches between a first state indicated by solid lines in FIG. 1 and a second state indicated by broken lines in FIG. The four-way switching valve (24) in the first state communicates the discharge side of the compressor (21) with the gas side of the outdoor heat exchanger (22), and at the same time, exchanges heat with the suction side of the compressor (21). communicate with the gas side of the vessel (40). The four-way switching valve (24) in the second state allows communication between the discharge side of the compressor (21) and the gas side of the indoor heat exchanger (40), and at the same time exchanges heat with the suction side of the compressor (21). communicate with the gas side of the vessel (22).

(3) Indoor Unit FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of the indoor unit (30). In the following description, the terms "top", "bottom", "front", and "back" are based on the directions indicated by the arrows in FIG.

The indoor unit (30) is installed in the indoor space (I). The indoor unit (30) is provided on the wall surface. The indoor unit (30) is a wall-mounted air conditioning indoor unit. The indoor unit (30) includes a casing (31), a filter (38), an indoor heat exchanger (40), an indoor fan (50), and a drain pan (60).

(3-1) Casing The casing (31) forms an outer shell of the indoor unit (30). A suction port (32) is formed in the upper portion of the casing (31). An outlet (33) is formed in the lower portion of the casing (31). An air passage (34) is formed inside the casing (31) from the inlet (32) to the outlet (33). The suction port (32) takes indoor air in the indoor space (I) into the air passageway (34). The blowout port (33) blows out the air in the air passageway (34) into the indoor space (I). The outlet (33) is provided with a flap (not shown) for adjusting the direction of the blown air.

A filter (38), an indoor heat exchanger (40), and an indoor fan (50) are arranged in the air passage (34) in this order from the upstream side to the downstream side of the air flow.

(3-2) Filter The filter (38) is arranged upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (40) in the internal flow path (S1). The filter (38) collects dust and the like in the air sent from the suction port (32) to the indoor heat exchanger (40). The indoor unit may include a dust removing mechanism for removing dust adhering to the filter (38).

(3-3) Indoor heat exchanger The indoor heat exchanger (40) exchanges heat between a refrigerant, which is a heat medium, and air. The indoor heat exchanger (40) is of the fin-and-tube type. The indoor heat exchanger (40) includes a first heat exchanger (41) and a second heat exchanger (42). The first heat exchanger (41) is arranged in front of the indoor fan (50). The second heat exchanger (42) is arranged behind the indoor fan (50). The first heat exchanger (41) and the second heat exchanger (42) are configured separately from each other.

The first heat exchanger (41) and the second heat exchanger (42) are composed of a plurality of fins (41) and heat transfer tubes ( 42) and respectively. The fin (F) is formed in a vertically long rectangular plate shape. The fins (F) are made of a metal material such as aluminum with high thermal conductivity. The heat transfer tube (P) is made of a metal material with high thermal conductivity such as copper.

A fin (F) is an example of a heat dissipation part. The radiator radiates the heat of the irradiation device (70) to the air. The heat radiation part of the present embodiment further releases the heat of the irradiation device (70) to the coolant. The thermal conductivity of the fins (F) is preferably 80 W/m·K or more, more preferably 100 W/m·K or more.

(3-4) Indoor fan The indoor fan (50) conveys the indoor air. The indoor fan (50) is a cross-flow fan. Air conveyed by the indoor fan (50) passes through the indoor heat exchanger (40). The air that has passed through the indoor heat exchanger (40) is supplied to the indoor space (I) through the outlet (33).

(3-5) Drain Pan The drain pan (60) is a tray that receives condensed water in the air. The drain pan (60) includes a first drain pan (61) and a second drain pan (62).

The first drain pan (61) is arranged below the first heat exchanger (41). The first drain pan (61) is located below the lower end of the first heat exchanger (41). The first drain pan (61) receives condensed water generated around the first heat exchanger (41).

The second drain pan (62) is arranged below the second heat exchanger (42). The second drain pan (62) is located below the lower end of the second heat exchanger (42). The second drain pan (62) receives condensed water generated around the second heat exchanger (42).

(3-6) Irradiation Device and Heat Conducting Section As shown in FIG. 2, the irradiation device (70) is provided in the indoor unit (30). The irradiation device (70) is arranged inside the casing (31). The irradiation device (70) of this example targets the first drain pan (61) and air.

The irradiation device (70) has a circuit board (71) and an LED (72). The LED (72) is provided on the circuit board (71). The LED (72) is a light emitting part that emits ultraviolet light. The LED (72) emits ultraviolet light with a predetermined directivity. The wavelength of ultraviolet rays emitted from the LED (72) is 190 nm or more and 280 nm or less. It is preferable that the wavelength of the ultraviolet rays is 220 mm or more and 270 nm or less. As shown in FIG. 3, the air conditioner (10) of this example has three irradiation devices (70).

The air conditioner (10) has a heat conducting part (75). The heat conducting part (75) of this example is made of a metal material. Metal materials include aluminum, stainless steel, or iron. The thermally conductive portion (75) may be made of a resin material having thermal conductivity. Examples of resin materials include polycarbonate, polybutylene terephthalate, polyacetal, and polyamide. The thermal conductivity of the heat conducting portion (75) is preferably 80 W/m·K or more, more preferably 100 W/m·K or more.

The heat conducting part (75) connects the irradiation device (70) and the indoor heat exchanger (40). The heat conducting part (75) of this example is connected to the plurality of fins (F) of the first heat exchanger (41). The heat conducting part (75) is in contact with the endmost fin (end plate) of the first heat exchanger (41) and the side edges of the plurality of fins (F). The heat conducting part (75) extends along the front edges of the fins (F) in the direction in which the fins (F) are arranged so as to be in contact with all the fins (F) of the first heat exchanger (41). extended. The heat-conducting portion (75) may contact only a portion of all the fins (F).

In this example, the irradiation device (70) is fixed to the lower part of the heat conducting part (75). The three irradiation devices (70) are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the heat conducting section (75). A circuit board (71) is fixed to the heat conducting portion (75). The LED (72) is thermally connected to the heat conducting portion (75) through the circuit board (71). The heat conducting portion (75) may be in direct contact with the LED (72).

The LED (72) emits ultraviolet rays toward the first drain pan (61). Specifically, the LED (72) emits ultraviolet light toward the bottom surface (60a) of the first drain pan (61). As a result, the first drain pan (61) and the water inside the first drain pan (61) can be sterilized by the ultraviolet rays.

The LED (72) irradiates ultraviolet rays toward the air carried by the indoor fan (50). In other words, the LED (72) emits ultraviolet rays toward the air in the air passageway (34). Thereby, the air supplied to the indoor space (I) can be sterilized.

In the vicinity of the LED (72), air flows obliquely downward on the rear side. Therefore, the LED (72) irradiates ultraviolet rays toward the downstream side of the air flow. In this way, dust in the air can be prevented from adhering to the LED (72).

In particular, the heat conducting portion (75) is positioned upstream of the LEDs (72), and the LEDs (72) are fixed to the downstream surface (lower surface) of the heat conducting portion (75). Therefore, the heat conducting portion (75) can prevent dust in the air from adhering to the surface of the LED (72).

Condensed water generated around the indoor heat exchanger (40) may scatter downstream of the indoor heat exchanger (40). In contrast, in this example, the irradiation device (70) and the heat transfer section (75) are arranged upstream of the air flow in the first heat exchanger (41). Therefore, it is possible to suppress adhesion of condensed water to the LEDs (72) and the circuit board (71) of the irradiation device (70).

(4) Remote Controller and Control Section As shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, the air conditioner (10) includes a remote controller (80). The remote controller (80) has an operation section (81). The operating section (81) is a functional section for a person to input various instructions to the air conditioner (10). The operation unit (81) includes switches, buttons, or a touch panel. Operation of the air conditioner (10) is selected by a person operating the operation unit (81). The operation of the air conditioner (10) includes cooling operation and heating operation.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, the air conditioner (10) has a control section (100). The control section (100) controls the operation of the air conditioner (10). The controller (100) controls the operation of the irradiation device (70). The control unit (100) includes a first control device (101), a second control device (102), a remote controller (80), a first communication line (103), and a second communication line (104).

Each of the first controller (101) and the second controller (102) includes an MCU (Micro Control Unit), an electric circuit, and an electronic circuit. The MCU includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, and a communication interface. Various programs for the CPU to execute are stored in the memory.

The first control device (101) is provided in the outdoor unit (20). The second control device (102) is provided in the indoor unit (30). The first control device (101) and the second control device (102) are connected to each other via a first communication line (103). The second control device (102) and the remote controller (80) are connected to each other via a second communication line (104). The first communication line (103) and the second communication line (104) are wired or wireless.

The first controller (101) controls the compressor (21), the expansion valve (23), the four-way switching valve (24), and the outdoor fan (25) according to the received command. The second controller (102) controls the indoor fan (50) and the irradiation device (70) according to the received command.

The control unit (100) switches between cooling operation and heating operation according to the received command. The control section (100) turns on the irradiation device (70) during cooling operation. The controller (100) of the present example turns on the irradiation device (70) during the heating operation. The control unit (100) makes the output of the irradiation device (70) during cooling operation higher than the output of the irradiation device (70) during heating operation. Specifically, the control unit (100) makes the emission intensity of the irradiation device (70) during cooling operation higher than the emission intensity of the irradiation device (70) during heating operation.

(5) Operating Behavior The operating behavior of the air conditioner (10) will be described in detail. The air conditioner (10) switches between cooling operation and heating operation.

(5-1) Cooling Operation In cooling operation, the control section (100) sets the four-way switching valve (24) to the first state. The controller (100) operates the compressor (21), the outdoor fan (25), and the indoor fan (50). The control section (100) adjusts the degree of opening of the expansion valve (23). During cooling operation, the refrigerant circuit (11) performs a refrigeration cycle (cooling cycle) in which the outdoor heat exchanger (22) functions as a radiator and the indoor heat exchanger (40) functions as an evaporator.

Specifically, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (21) flows through the outdoor heat exchanger (22). The outdoor heat exchanger (22) exchanges heat between refrigerant and outdoor air. The refrigerant that has released heat or condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger (22) is decompressed by the expansion valve (23) and then flows through the indoor heat exchanger (40). The indoor heat exchanger (40) exchanges heat between the refrigerant and indoor air. The refrigerant evaporated in the indoor heat exchanger (40) is compressed again in the compressor (21).

In the indoor unit (30), indoor air is sucked into the air passage (34) through the suction port (32). Air in the air passageway (34) passes through the indoor heat exchanger (40). The indoor heat exchanger (40) cools air with refrigerant. The air cooled by the indoor heat exchanger (40) is supplied to the indoor space (I) through the outlet (33).

(5-2) Heating operation In the heating operation, the controller (100) sets the four-way switching valve (24) to the second state. The controller (100) operates the compressor (21), the outdoor fan (25), and the indoor fan (50). The control section (100) adjusts the degree of opening of the expansion valve (23). During heating operation, the refrigerant circuit (11) performs a refrigeration cycle (heating cycle) in which the indoor heat exchanger (40) functions as a radiator and the outdoor heat exchanger (22) functions as an evaporator.

Specifically, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (21) flows through the indoor heat exchanger (40). The indoor heat exchanger (40) exchanges heat between the refrigerant and indoor air. The refrigerant that has released heat or condensed in the indoor heat exchanger (40) is decompressed by the expansion valve (23) and then flows through the outdoor heat exchanger (22). The outdoor heat exchanger (22) exchanges heat between refrigerant and outdoor air. The refrigerant evaporated in the outdoor heat exchanger (22) is compressed again in the compressor (21).

In the indoor unit (30), indoor air is sucked into the air passage (34) through the suction port (32). Air in the air passageway (34) passes through the indoor heat exchanger (40). The indoor heat exchanger (40) heats air with refrigerant. The air heated by the indoor heat exchanger (40) is supplied to the indoor space (I) through the outlet (33).

(5-3) Operation of irradiation device during cooling operation During cooling operation, the controller (100) turns on the irradiation device (70). When the irradiation device (70) is turned on, the LED (72) emits ultraviolet rays. The ultraviolet rays are applied to the first drain pan (61). As a result, the first drain pan (61) and the water in the first drain pan (61) can be sterilized. Therefore, propagation of bacteria and fungi in the first drain pan (61) can be suppressed.

In addition, the ultraviolet rays irradiate the air flowing through the air passage (34). Therefore, the air flowing through the air passageway (34) can be sterilized, and the sterilized air can be supplied indoors.

The control unit (100) makes the emission intensity of the irradiation device (70) during cooling operation higher than the emission intensity of the irradiation device (70) during heating operation. Cooling operation is performed under high temperature and high humidity conditions. Therefore, bacteria and the like tend to grow inside the casing (31) during cooling operation. On the other hand, by increasing the emission intensity of the irradiation device (70) during the cooling operation, the propagation of such bacteria can be reliably suppressed.

The temperature of the fins (F) during cooling operation is lower than that during heating operation. Therefore, heat generation of the irradiation device (70) can be more effectively suppressed during cooling operation. As a result, the output of the LED (72) of the irradiation device (70) can be increased during cooling.

(5-4) Operation of irradiation device during heating operation During heating operation, the control unit (100) turns on the irradiation device (70). When the irradiation device (70) is turned on, the LED (72) emits ultraviolet rays. The ultraviolet rays irradiate the air flowing through the air passageway (34). Therefore, the air flowing through the air passageway (34) can be sterilized, and the sterilized air can be supplied indoors.

In addition, during heating operation, the control unit (100) appropriately performs the reverse cycle defrost operation. In the reverse cycle defrosting operation, as in the cooling operation, the indoor heat exchanger (40) functions as an evaporator, so that condensation water may occur. The drain pan (60) receives this condensed water.

During heating operation, the water irradiated by the LED (72) is irradiated to the first drain pan (61). Therefore, the first drain pan (61) and the water in the first drain pan (61) can be sterilized. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the propagation of bacteria and fungi in the first drain pan (61) due to the reverse cycle defrosting operation.

(6) Features (6-1) The air conditioner (10) has fins (F) as heat radiators that release heat from the irradiation device (70) to the air. Therefore, the temperature rise of the LED (72) can be suppressed with a relatively simple configuration.

Specifically, the air conditioner (10) has a heat conducting part (75) that connects with the fins (F). Therefore, the heat generated from the LED (72) can be transferred to the fins (F) through the heat conducting portion (75). Therefore, the temperature rise of the LED (72) can be suppressed by the heat dissipation effect of the fins (F). This allows the irradiation device (70) to perform desired operations. The fins (F) are provided in the indoor heat exchanger (40) and have a sufficient heat transfer area, so they can effectively suppress the heat generation of the LEDs (72).

(6-2) Since the heat conducting portion (75) is made of a metal material, the heat of the irradiation device (70) can be rapidly transferred to the fins (F) via the heat conducting portion (75). Therefore, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the heat dissipation effect of the LED (72) due to the rate-determining heat transfer of the heat conducting portion (75). In particular, by setting the thermal conductivity of the heat conductive portion (75) to 80 W/m·K or more, the heat dissipation effect of the LED (72) can be improved. In particular, by setting the thermal conductivity of the heat conducting portion (75) to 100 W/m·K or more, the heat dissipation effect of the LED (72) can be sufficiently obtained.

The heat dissipation effect of the LED (72) can be improved by setting the thermal conductivity of the fins (F) as the heat dissipation part to 80 W/m·K or more. In particular, by setting the thermal conductivity of the fins (F) to 100 W/m·K or more, a sufficient heat dissipation effect for the LEDs (72) can be obtained.

(6-3) The controller (100) turns on the irradiation device (70) in cooling operation. Therefore, it is possible to sterilize predetermined objects (air and drain pan (60)) under conditions where bacteria and mold are particularly likely to occur. In addition, the indoor heat exchanger (40) during cooling operation functions as an evaporator. Therefore, the LED (72) can be sufficiently cooled by the coolant.

(6-4) The controller (100) turns on the irradiation device (70) in the heating operation. Therefore, objects (air and drain pan (60)) can be sterilized even in heating operation. When the irradiation device (70) is turned on, the temperature of the LED (72) may reach, for example, 80° C. or higher. In contrast, the temperature of the refrigerant condensed in the indoor heat exchanger (40) is much lower than the temperature of the LED (72). Therefore, even in heating operation, the LED (72) can be sufficiently cooled by the refrigerant.

(6-5) The control unit (100) makes the emission intensity of the irradiation device (70) during cooling operation higher than the emission intensity of the irradiation device (70) during heating operation. Therefore, it is possible to reliably suppress the propagation of bacteria and fungi under conditions of high temperature and high humidity.

(6-6) The irradiation device (70) irradiates ultraviolet rays toward the drain pan (60). Therefore, the drain pan (60) and the water in the drain pan (60) can be sterilized.

(6-7) The irradiation device (70) irradiates the air conveyed by the fan (50) with ultraviolet rays. Therefore, sterilized air can be supplied to the indoor space (I).

(6-8) The irradiation device (70) is arranged upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (40) in the air flow. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the condensation water generated near the indoor heat exchanger (40) from adhering to the circuit board (71) and the LEDs (72), thereby compensating the operation of the irradiation device (70).

(6-9) The LED (72) faces the downstream side of the air flow. Therefore, it is possible to prevent dust in the air from adhering to the surface of the LED (72), and to prevent the substantial irradiation amount of the LED (72) from decreasing.

(7) Modifications In each of the embodiments described above, the following modifications may be employed.

(7-1) Modification 1: Modification regarding target of irradiation device (7-1-1)
The irradiation device (70) may irradiate the second drain pan (62) with ultraviolet rays. The irradiation device (70) may irradiate both the first drain pan (61) and the second drain pan (62) with ultraviolet rays.

(7-1-2)
As shown in FIG. 5, the irradiation device (70) may irradiate the indoor heat exchanger (40) with ultraviolet rays. Thereby, the surface of the indoor heat exchanger (40) can be sterilized. In this example, the irradiation device (70) irradiates the first heat exchanger (41) with ultraviolet rays. The heat conducting part (75) connects the irradiation device (70) and the first heat exchanger (41). In other words, the heat conducting part (75) connects the irradiation device (70) and the object of the irradiation device (70). The irradiation device (70) may irradiate the second heat exchanger (42) with ultraviolet rays. In this case, the heat conducting part (75) connects the irradiation device (70) and the second heat exchanger (42).

(7-1-3)
The irradiation device (70) may irradiate the filter (38) with ultraviolet rays. Thereby, the surface and inside of the filter (38) can be sterilized. The irradiation device (70) may irradiate the dust removing mechanism of the filter (38) with ultraviolet rays.

(7-1-4)
The irradiation device (70) may irradiate, of the air carried by the indoor fan (50), the air outside the casing (31) with ultraviolet rays. Specifically, the irradiation device (70) may irradiate the air sucked into the suction port (32) with ultraviolet rays. The irradiation device (70) may irradiate the air blown from the outlet (33) with ultraviolet rays.

(7-1-5)
The irradiation device (70) may irradiate an indoor fan (50) as a fan with ultraviolet rays. Thereby, the indoor fan (50) can be sterilized.

(7-1-6)
The irradiation device (70) may irradiate the inner wall of the casing (31) or the inner wall facing the air passageway (34) with ultraviolet rays. This allows these inner walls to be sterilized.

(7-2) Modified Example 2: Relationship Between Irradiation Device and Air Flow The irradiation device (70) may be arranged downstream of the air flow in the indoor heat exchanger (40). The LED (72) may irradiate ultraviolet rays toward the upstream side of the airflow.

(7-3) Modification 3: Modification of air conditioning system (7-3-1)
The air conditioner (10) may have a ceiling-mounted indoor unit (30). Here, the ceiling-mounted indoor unit (30) includes a ceiling-embedded type in which the indoor unit (30) is embedded in the ceiling surface, and a ceiling-mounted type in which the indoor unit (30) is suspended from the upper wall.

FIG. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view of the indoor unit (30). The indoor unit (30) has a casing (31) installed above the ceiling. The casing (31) includes a casing body (35) and a panel (36). The casing body (35) is shaped like a rectangular box with an opening on the bottom. The panel (36) is detachably attached to the opening surface of the casing body (35). The panel (36) has a rectangular frame-shaped panel body (36a) and an intake grille (36b) provided in the center of the panel body (36a).

One suction port (32) is formed in the center of the panel body (36a). The suction grille (36b) is attached to the suction port (32). Each of the four side edges of the panel body (36a) is formed with one outlet (33). Each outlet (33) extends along four side edges. A flap (39) is provided inside each outlet (33). An air passage (34) is formed in the casing (31) from the inlet (32) to the outlet (33).

A bell mouth (43), an indoor fan (50), an indoor heat exchanger (40), and a drain pan (60) are provided inside the casing body (35). The bellmouth (43) and the indoor fan (50) are arranged above the intake grille (36b). The indoor fan (50) is a centrifugal turbo fan. The indoor heat exchanger (40) is arranged in the air passageway (34) so as to surround the indoor fan (50). The indoor heat exchanger (40) is a fin-and-tube heat exchanger. The drain pan (60) is arranged below the indoor heat exchanger (40) in the air passageway (34).

In this example, the irradiation device (70) is arranged upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (40). The irradiation device (70) irradiates ultraviolet rays toward the drain pan (60).

The heat conducting part (75) of this example connects the irradiation device (70) and the fins (not shown) of the indoor heat exchanger (40). Thereby, the heat of the LED (72) can be released to the air through the fins.

(7-3-2)
The indoor unit (30) may be of a floor type or a duct type installed in the ceiling.

(7-3-3) The air conditioner (10) may have a function of ventilating the indoor space (I). The air conditioner (10) may have humidification and dehumidification functions. The air conditioner (10) may have a function of purifying air.

(7-3-4)
In the indoor unit (30), heat is exchanged between the refrigerant and air in the indoor heat exchanger (40). However, the indoor heat exchanger (40) may heat-exchange air with a heat medium other than refrigerant, such as water or brine.

(7-3-5)
The air conditioner (10) may be of a multi-type having a plurality of indoor units (30). The air conditioner (10) may have a plurality of outdoor units (20).

(7-4) Modification 4: Modification regarding control of irradiation device (7-4-1)
The control unit (100) may turn on the irradiation device (70) when the operation of the air conditioner (10) is stopped. Specifically, the control unit (100) may turn on the irradiation device (70) immediately after the cooling operation ends, for example. In this case, the irradiation device (70) irradiates the drain pan (60) with ultraviolet rays. Since condensed water tends to accumulate in the drain pan (60) immediately after the cooling operation ends, the water in the drain pan (60) can be reliably sterilized.

(7-4-2)
The control section (100) may turn off the irradiation device (70) in the heating operation. Also in this case, the control unit (100) preferably makes the output of the irradiation device (70) during cooling operation higher than the output (zero) during heating operation.

(7-4-3) The control unit (100) may turn on the irradiation device (70) during the cooling operation of the cooling-only air conditioner (10).

(7-4-4) The controller (100) may turn on the irradiation device (70) during the heating operation of the air conditioner (10) dedicated to heating.

(7-5) Modification 5: Modification regarding configuration of heat conducting portion (7-5-1)
As shown in FIG. 7, the heat conducting portion (75) may be part of the fins (F). FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the fin (F) viewed in the thickness direction. The fin (F) has a rectangular plate-shaped fin body (Fa) and a protrusion (Fb) integral with the fin body (Fa). The protrusion (Fb) protrudes outward from the widthwise end of the fin body (Fa). The fin body (Fa) and the protrusion (Fb) are integrally molded. Specifically, the fin body (Fa) and the protrusion (Fb) are integrally formed by press working. The projecting portion (Fb) is a heat conducting portion (75) that connects the irradiation device (70) and the fin body (Fa). The irradiation device (70) in the example of FIG. 7 is provided on the side surface of the protrusion (Fb).

With this configuration, the heat conducting portion (75) is also used as part of the fins (F), so the number of parts can be reduced. In addition, since the heat conducting portion (75) and the fins (F) are composed of one member, heat transfer from the heat conducting portion to the fin main body (Fa) is facilitated. As a result, the heat dissipation effect of the LED (72) is improved.

(7-5-2)
In the example shown in FIG. 8, a folded surface (Fc) is formed at the tip portion of the protrusion (Fb). The folded surface (Fc) is formed by bending the tip portion of the protrusion (Fb). The folded face (Fb) faces downward. The irradiation device (70) is provided on the folded surface (Fb). Thereby, ultraviolet rays can be emitted downward from the LED (72).

(7-5-3)
A heat dissipation promotion part for promoting heat dissipation may be provided in the heat conduction part (75). The heat dissipation promoting part may be a heat sink or a heat pipe.

(7-5-4)
The heat conducting part (75) may be made of any material having high heat conductivity, such as zinc, copper, or brass. The heat-conducting portion (75) does not necessarily have to be made of a metal material, and may be made of a carbon material such as graphite.

(7-6) Modification 6: First example in which a heat radiating part is provided on the inner surface of the casing As shown in Fig. 9, the air conditioner (10) of Modification 6 has a wall-mounted indoor unit (30). . A first heat radiation member (91) as a heat radiation section is provided on the inner surface of the casing (31) of the indoor unit (30). The casing (31) has a front plate (31a). The front plate (31a) constitutes the front surface of the casing (31). The front plate (31a) is made of a resin material.

The first heat radiation member (91) is fixed to the inner surface of the front plate (31a). The first heat radiation member (91) is made of a material with high thermal conductivity. The first heat radiation member (91) of this example is made of a metal material. The first heat radiation member (91) is composed of a metal plate or metal tape. Note that the first heat radiation member (91) may be made of a resin material having high thermal conductivity. The first heat radiation member (91) extends along the inner surface of the front plate (31a). The first heat radiation member (91) faces the air passageway (34). The air flowing through the air passageway (34) flows along the first heat radiation member (91). The first heat radiation member (91) is arranged upstream of the heat exchanger (40) in the air flow. The first heat radiation member (91) may be fixed to the side plate of the casing (31). The side plates form lateral sides of the casing (31).

The irradiation device (70) is fixed to the first heat radiation member (91) as a heat radiation section. The irradiation device (70) of this example is directly fixed to the first heat radiation member (91). Methods for directly fixing the irradiation device (70) to the heat radiating part include fixing by fastening with screws or the like, adhesion, fixing by fitting, and fixing by press-fitting. These fixing methods can also be employed in the above-described embodiment and other modifications. The irradiation device (70) may be fixed to the first heat radiation member (91) via the heat conducting portion (75) described above.

The LED (72) of the irradiation device (70) of this example faces the downstream side of the air flow. The LED (72) irradiates the air flowing through the air passageway (34) with ultraviolet rays. In addition, the irradiation device (70) irradiates the indoor heat exchanger (40) and the drain pan (60) with ultraviolet rays.

In Modified Example 6, when the LED (72) generates heat, this heat is transmitted to the first heat radiation member (91). The heat transferred to the first heat radiation member (91) is released to the air in the air passageway (34). The control unit (100) turns on the irradiation device (70) in the cooling operation and the heating operation. In the cooling operation and the heating operation, the controller (100) operates the indoor fan (50), so that the air flowing through the air passageway (34) can cool the first heat radiation member (91). Since the first heat radiation member (91) is located upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (40), the first heat radiation member (91) can be sufficiently cooled by air even during heating operation.

The control unit (100) may turn on the irradiation device (70) when the air conditioner (10) is stopped. Also in this case, the heat of the irradiation device (70) can be released to the air through the first heat radiation member (91).

Since the installation space for the first heat radiation member (91) can be secured on the inner surface of the casing (31), it is easy to expand the area of the first heat radiation member (91). Therefore, the heat dissipation performance of the first heat dissipation member (91) can be improved.

(7-7) Modification 7: First example in which a portion of the casing is a heat radiating section As shown in Fig. 10, the air conditioner (10) of Modification 7 includes a wall-mounted indoor unit (30). have. A portion of the casing (31) of the indoor unit (30) constitutes a heat radiating section. Specifically, at least part of the front plate (31a) of the casing (31) is composed of a second heat radiating member (92) with high thermal conductivity. The second heat dissipation member (92) is made of a metal material, but may be made of a resin material with high thermal conductivity. The second heat radiation member (92) is shaped like a plate facing the air passageway (34). The second heat radiation member (92) may be formed on the side plate of the casing (31). Other basic configurations of the air conditioner (10) of the seventh modification are the same as those of the sixth modification.

In Modified Example 7, the heat radiating portion is configured by part of the casing (31). Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced. Further, in this configuration, the heat transferred to the second heat radiation member (92) can be released not only to the air in the air passageway (34) but also to the air outside the casing (31). Therefore, the heat dissipation performance of the heat dissipation portion can be improved.

(7-8) Modification 8: Second example in which a part of the casing is a heat radiating part As shown in FIG. indoor unit (30). A portion of the casing (31) of the indoor unit (30) constitutes a heat radiating section. Specifically, at least part of the top plate (31b) of the casing (31) is composed of the second heat radiation member (92) with high thermal conductivity. The second heat radiation member (92) of the top plate (31b) faces the air passageway (34). The second heat radiation member (92) may be a side plate of the casing.

The LED (72) of the irradiation device (70) faces downward. The irradiation device (70) irradiates the air passageway (34) with ultraviolet rays. The irradiation device (70) further irradiates the heat exchanger (40) and the drain pan (60) with ultraviolet rays.

Also in Modification 8, the heat radiating portion is configured by part of the casing (31). Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced. Since the top plate (31b) has a relatively large area compared to the side plates, the heat dissipation performance of the heat dissipation portion can be improved.

(7-9) Other Configurations of Heat Dissipating Section The heat dissipating section may be provided on any component as long as it is made of a material with high heat transfer performance. The heat radiation part may be a drain pan made of metal or a resin material having thermal conductivity. The heat dissipation part may be a tube plate of the heat exchanger (40), a header collecting pipe of the heat exchanger (40), a flow divider, refrigerant pipes, or water pipes. Thus, the heat radiation section is preferably an element part of the air conditioner (10). Here, the element parts are parts provided to achieve the original functions of the air conditioner (10). If it is an element part, since there is no need to separately provide a part for heat dissipation, the number of parts and cost can be reduced.

Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. In addition, the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be appropriately combined or replaced as long as the functions of the object of the present disclosure are not impaired.

The descriptions of "first", "second", "third", etc. described above are used to distinguish the words and phrases to which these descriptions are given, and the number and order of the words and phrases are also limited. not something to do.

As described above, the present disclosure is useful for air conditioners.

F Fin (Heat dissipation part)
10 air conditioner 31 casing 34 air passage 40 indoor heat exchanger (heat exchanger)
50 indoor fan (fan)
60 drain pan 70 irradiation device 72 LED
75 Heat conduction part 91 First heat dissipation member (heat dissipation part)
92 second thermally conductive member (radiator)
100 control unit

Claims

an irradiation device (70) having an LED (72) for irradiating ultraviolet light;
An air conditioner, comprising: a radiator (F, 91, 92) for releasing heat of the irradiation device (70) to the air.
a heat exchanger (40) having a plurality of fins (F) as the heat radiation part and exchanging heat between air and a heat medium;
The air conditioner according to claim 1, further comprising a heat conducting portion (75) connecting the irradiation device (70) and the fins (F).
The air conditioner according to claim 2, further comprising a controller (100) that turns on the irradiation device (70) during cooling operation in which air is cooled by the heat exchanger (40).
The air conditioner according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising a controller (100) for turning on the irradiation device (70) during a heating operation in which the heat exchanger (40) heats the air.
The output of the irradiation device (70) during cooling operation in which air is cooled by the heat exchanger (40) is the output of the irradiation device (70) in heating operation in which air is heated by the heat exchanger (40). 5. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 2 to 4, further comprising a control section (100) that is larger than .
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 2 to 5, further comprising a control section (100) that turns on the irradiation device (70) when the operation of the air conditioner (10) is stopped.
equipped with a drain pan (60),
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the irradiation device (70) irradiates the ultraviolet rays toward the drain pan (60).
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the irradiation device (70) irradiates the ultraviolet rays toward the heat exchanger (40).
Equipped with a fan (50) to convey the air,
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the irradiation device (70) irradiates the ultraviolet rays toward the air conveyed by the fan (50).
The heat exchanger (40) is configured to cool air with the heat medium,
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the irradiation device (70) is arranged upstream of the heat exchanger (40) in the air flow.
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the LED (72) faces the downstream side of the air flow.
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 2 to 11, wherein the heat conducting portion (75) is part of the fin (F).
The air conditioner according to claim 1, further comprising a heat conducting section (75) connecting the irradiation device (70) and the heat radiating section (F, 91, 92).
The air conditioner according to any one of Claims 13, wherein at least one of the heat radiating portion (F, 91, 92) and the heat conducting portion (75) is made of a metal material.
The air conditioner according to claim 13 or 14, wherein at least one of the heat conducting portion (75) and the heat conducting portion (75) has a heat conductivity of 80 w/m·K or more.
A casing (31) having an air passage (34) formed therein,
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the heat radiating portion (F, 91, 92) includes a first heat radiating member (91) fixed to the inner surface of the casing (31).
The air conditioner according to claim 16, wherein the first heat radiation member (91) includes a metal plate or a metal tape.
A casing (31) having an air passage (34) formed therein,
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the heat radiating section (F, 91, 92) includes a second heat radiating member (92) constituted by part of the casing (31).