(19)
(11) EP 3 730 860 A1

(12) EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION
published in accordance with Art. 153(4) EPC

(43) Date of publication:
28.10.2020 Bulletin 2020/44

(21) Application number: 18891973.2

(22) Date of filing: 13.11.2018
(51) International Patent Classification (IPC): 
F24F 13/20(2006.01)
F24F 13/14(2006.01)
F24F 13/06(2006.01)
F24F 13/32(2006.01)
(86) International application number:
PCT/JP2018/042001
(87) International publication number:
WO 2019/123894 (27.06.2019 Gazette 2019/26)
(84) Designated Contracting States:
AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR
Designated Extension States:
BA ME
Designated Validation States:
KH MA MD TN

(30) Priority: 22.12.2017 CN 201711409126

(71) Applicant: DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD.
Osaka 530-8323 (JP)

(72) Inventors:
  • YU, Shengfei
    Shanghai, 201108 (CN)
  • YANG, Shunbo
    Shanghai, 201108 (CN)
  • WU, Wenqing
    Shanghai, 201108 (CN)

(74) Representative: Hoffmann Eitle 
Patent- und Rechtsanwälte PartmbB Arabellastraße 30
81925 München
81925 München (DE)

   


(54) BLOW-OUT PANEL, AND AIR CONDITIONING INDOOR UNIT


(57) A blow-out panel (20) and an air conditioning indoor unit (1) including the blow-out panel (20) have a simple structure, which allows the air to be blown out close to all around 360° and allows the air to be blown out of the blow-out port close to uniformly. The blow-out panel (20) has an outer frame (21) and an inner frame (22), and the outer frame (21) and the inner frame (22) surround a polygonal blow-out port (CF). A guide vane (23) is provided in the blow-out port (CF). The blow-out panel (20) is provided with a link (24). The link (24) deviates from a corner of the blow-out port (CF) and extends from a central direction of the blow-out panel (20) to the corner of the blow-out port (CF). The guide vane (23) is pivotally connected to the link (24) in parallel to a longitudinal direction of the guide van (23).




Description

TECHNICAL FIELD



[0001] The present invention relates to a blow-out panel and an air conditioning indoor unit including the blow-out panel.

BACKGROUND ART



[0002] Conventionally, there has been an air conditioning indoor unit that includes an indoor unit body provided therein with an axial fan of which axis line vertically extends, and a blow-out panel provided at a lower part of the indoor unit body and having a blow-out port provided therein with a guide vane.

[0003] In the above air conditioning indoor unit, in order to increase a blow-out area of the blow-out port, and in consideration of layout convenience, it is conceivable to adopt the blow-out panel having a rectangular outer frame, a rectangular inner frame, and a polygonal blow-out port surrounded by the outer frame and the inner frame.

[0004] However, in this case, the airflow generated from an axial fan is less likely to be blown out to a corner of the blow-out port, and the air is likely to be blown out of the blow-out port ununiformly.

[0005] In the above case, it is also necessary to consider how the guide vane is attached to the blow-out panel with a simple configuration.

[0006] Further, conventionally, there has been an air treatment device connected to a polygonal blow-out panel by a duct. A spiral airflow discharged from a fan component in the air treatment device is sent to the blow-out panel via the duct. In that case, the spiral airflow is less likely to be blown out to the corner of the blow-out port, and the air is likely to be blown out of the blow-out port ununiformly.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION



[0007] In order to solve the above technical problems, a blow-out panel has an outer frame and an inner frame. The outer frame and the inner frame surround a polygonal blow-out port. A guide vane is provided in the blow-out port. The blow-out panel is provided with a link. The link deviates from the corner of the blow-out port, and extends from a central direction of the blow-out panel to the corner of the blow-out port. A rotating shaft of the guide vane is pivotally connected to the link in parallel to a longitudinal direction of the guide vane.

[0008] Here, "the outer frame and the inner frame surround a polygonal blow-out port" means that a substantially polygonal shape combined with all parts capable of blowing out air is formed between the outer frame and the inner frame. Further, the "corner of the blow-out port" refers to a polygonal corner combined with all the parts capable of blowing out air and formed between the outer frame and the inner frame.

[0009] With the blow-out panel having the above configuration, the polygonal blow-out port surrounded by the outer frame and the inner frame is used. Thus, for example, when an air conditioning indoor unit including an indoor unit body provided with an axial fan is used, the air can be blown out close to all around 360°. The link to which the guide vane is attached extends from the central direction of the blow-out panel to the corner of the blow-out port. Thus, for example, when an air conditioning indoor unit including an indoor unit body provided with an axial fan is used, the airflow blown out from the axial fan or the like easily flows along the link to the corner of the blow-out port, and the air is blown out of the blow-out port close to uniformly.

[0010] Further, the blow-out panel having the above configuration simplifies a connection structure between the guide vane and the link. It is therefore possible to avoid interference with the link of the guide vane during rotation, and it is easy to connect the guide vane to the link.

[0011] On this blow-out panel, the link preferably connects the outer frame and the inner frame.

[0012] The blow-out panel having the above configuration increases a strength of the entire blow-out panel and eliminates the need for adding other connecting members. Further, compared with the case where adding other connecting members, the interference of other connecting members with the airflow at the blow-out port can be reduced, the structure is simplified, and a size of the blow-out panel can be also increased.

[0013] On this blow-out panel, the link is preferably provided near an angle bisector of the corner of the blow-out port.

[0014] With the blow-out panel having the above configuration, for example, when an air conditioning indoor unit including an indoor unit body provided with an axial fan is used, the airflow blown out from the axial fan or the like of the blow-out port along the link easily flows to the corner, and the air is blown out of the blow-out port close to uniformly.

[0015] On this blow-out panel, the guide vane preferably includes an elongated vane body, and a fixing piece that is perpendicular to the vane body and to which a first end of the rotating shaft is connected. The link has a projecting piece that projects to intersect the longitudinal direction of the link, and a second end of the rotating shaft is pivotally connected to the projecting piece.

[0016] The blow-out panel having the above configuration enables the guide vane and the link to be pivotally connected with a simple structure.

[0017] On this blow-out panel, the link may include a link body and a connecting portion. The connecting portion is disposed closer to the center of the blow-out panel than the link body, and connects the link body and the inner frame. The projecting piece is provided on the link body.

[0018] The blow-out panel having the above configuration increases a strength of the entire blow-out panel and eliminates the need for adding other connecting members. Further, compared with the case where adding other connecting members, the interference of other connecting members with the airflow at the blow-out port can be reduced, the structure is simplified, and a size of the blow-out panel can be also increased. The simplified connection structure between the guide vane and the link can avoid the interference with the link of the guide vane during rotation, and easily connect the guide vane to the link.

[0019] On this blow-out panel, the projecting piece may include a first portion that extends from the link body along a thickness direction of the blow-out panel, and a second portion that extends at an angle with the first portion and is parallel to the fixing piece. The second end of the rotating shaft is pivotally connected to the second portion.

[0020] With the blow-out panel having the above configuration, the first portion of the projecting piece extends from the link body along the thickness direction of the blow-out panel. Thus, for example, when an air conditioning indoor unit including an indoor unit body provided with an axial fan is used, the first portion of the projecting piece and the link can jointly guide the airflow generated from the axial fan or the like to the corner of the blow-out panel. Further, since the second portion of the projecting piece is parallel to the fixing piece, the rotating shaft has a simple structure, furthermore, is easily assembled, and is assembled into a compact structure. It is also possible to reduce wear of the rotating shaft during rotation.

[0021] On this blow-out panel, the projecting piece may be configured to be closer to the corner of the blow-out port than the fixing piece.

[0022] On the blow-out panel having the above configuration, it is possible to reduce the interference of the fixing piece and the first end of the rotating shaft with the airflow at the corner of the blow-out port.

[0023] On this blow-out panel, the link preferably includes a first link and a second link provided on one side of the blow-out port. As viewed from an inner surface side to an outer surface side of the blow-out panel, the second link is disposed downstream of the first link in a clockwise direction around the center of the blow-out panel. The guide vane is provided with a first rotating shaft and a second rotating shaft that are pivotally connected to the first link and the second link, respectively.

[0024] Here, the "outer surface of the blow-out panel" refers to the surface facing a user when the blow-out panel is installed in a room or the like, and the "inner surface of the blow-out panel" refers to the opposite surface of the "outer surface of the blow-out panel".

[0025] The blow-out panel having the above configuration can increase a strength of the entire blow-out panel and, robustness of the assembly of the guide vane can be improved, and the guide vane can be further stabilized during reversal.

[0026] On this blow-out panel, an intermediate link may be further provided, and the guide vane may be provided with an intermediate rotating shaft pivotally connected to the intermediate link. The intermediate link is disposed in a middle of the blow-out port and is perpendicular to the guide vane as viewed from the thickness direction of the blow-out panel. A stepping motor that drives the rotation of the guide vane is attached to the intermediate link.

[0027] The blow-out panel having the above configuration can make the force applied to the guide vane close to uniform. This increases stability and simplifies a drive structure. Further, the stepping motor, which is provided at a position of the outer frame of the blow-out port, is also advantageous for miniaturization of the blow-out panel.

[0028] On the blow-out panel, the link preferably includes the link body and the connecting portion. The connecting portion is disposed closer to the center of the blow-out panel than the link body, and connects the link body and the inner frame. The connecting portion and the link body each have a first surface and a second surface. The first surface is disposed downstream of the second surface in the clockwise direction around the center of the blow-out panel as viewed from the inner surface side to the outer surface side of the blow-out panel. The second surface of the connecting portion forms an inwardly concave shape together with the second surface of the link body.

[0029] The blow-out panel having the above configuration can ensure the strength of the entire link and also reduce a volume of the link. For example, when an air conditioning indoor unit including an indoor unit body provided with an axial fan is used, the interference of the connecting portion of the link with the airflow generated by the axial fan or the like can be reduced, and the air is blown out of the blow-out port close to uniformly. Then, by using the second surface of the connecting portion of the link, the airflow generated by the axial fan or the like is easily guided to the corner of the blow-out port via the second surface of the link body. The airflow is also blown out from the corner of the blow-out port, and the air can be blown out all around 360° of the blow-out panel.

[0030] On this blow-out panel, the link preferably includes a first link and a second link provided on one side of the blow-out port. As viewed from an inner surface side to an outer surface side of the blow-out panel, the second link is disposed downstream of the first link in a clockwise direction around the center of the blow-out panel. The first link and the second link on both sides of one corner of the blow-out port are formed such that the link body of the first link is parallel to the link body of the second link.

[0031] With the blow-out panel having the above configuration, the entire structure of the blow-out panel can be simplified, the interference of the link body of the link with the airflow at the corner of the blow-out port can be reduced, and the air is blown out of the blow-out port close to uniformly.

[0032] On this blow-out panel, a central member provided with an air guide piece is preferably installed at a center of the inner frame.

[0033] With the blow-out panel having the above configuration, for example, when an air conditioning indoor unit including an indoor unit body provided with an axial fan is used, an air guide piece is used to guide an airflow generated by the axial fan or the like. As a result, the airflow is prevented from being blown directly downward, and the airflow guided by the air guide piece flows to the corner of the blow-out port along the link. This allows the air to be blown out of the blow-out port close to uniformly.

[0034] On this blow-out panel, the link may include the link body and the connecting portion. The connecting portion is disposed closer to the center of the blow-out panel than the link body, and connects the link body and the inner frame. The link body has the first surface and the second surface. The first surface is disposed downstream of the second surface in the clockwise direction around the center of the blow-out panel as viewed from the inner surface side to the outer surface side of the blow-out panel. A suction end of the air guide piece is disposed on an extension line of the first surface of the link body.

[0035] With the blow-out panel having the above configuration, the airflow flowing to the corner of the blow-out port can be further ensured, the air is blown out of the blow-out port close to uniformly, and the air can be blown out all around 360° of the blow-out panel.

[0036] Further, in order to solve the above technical problems, an air conditioning indoor unit has an indoor unit body and the above blow-out panel. The blow-out panel is directly connected to the indoor unit body or is connected to the indoor unit body via a duct.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS



[0037] 

FIG. 1 is a sectional side view schematically showing an overall structure of an air conditioning indoor unit.

FIG. 2 is a plan view schematically showing a blow-out panel and a central member of the air conditioning indoor unit.

FIG. 3 is a plan view schematically showing local structures of a blow-out panel and a central member of the air conditioning indoor unit.

FIG. 4 is a plan view schematically showing a local structure of the blow-out panel of the air conditioning indoor unit, and showing a structure near a first link.

FIG. 5 is a plan view schematically showing a local structure of the blow-out panel of the air conditioning indoor unit, and showing a structure near a second link.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view schematically showing a local structure of the blow-out panel of the air conditioning indoor unit, in which guide vanes are not shown.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view schematically showing a connection structure of the guide vanes on the blow-out panel of the air conditioning indoor unit, where part of the guide vanes is not shown (here, the guide vanes are in an open state).

FIG. 8 is a perspective view schematically showing a local structure of the blow-out panel of the air conditioning indoor unit.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view schematically showing the connection structure of the guide vanes in the blow-out panel of the air conditioning indoor unit, of which the guide vanes are not shown.

FIG. 10 is a sectional side view schematically showing a local structure of the air conditioning indoor unit.


DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT



[0038] An embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10 by taking an air conditioning indoor unit provided with an indoor unit body and a blow-out panel as an example in accordance with an actual installation state.

[0039] Here, for convenience of description, three directions orthogonal to one another are set to X direction, Y direction, and Z direction. Among them, the X direction and the Y direction correspond to directions in a horizontal plane when the air conditioning indoor unit is actually installed. The Z direction corresponds to a vertical direction when the air conditioning indoor unit is actually installed. Y1 direction side, Y2 direction side, X1 direction side, X2 direction side, Z1 direction side, and Z2 direction side respectively correspond to a front side, a rear side, a left side, a right side, a lower side, and an upper side when the air conditioning indoor unit is actually installed.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioning indoor unit 1 includes an indoor unit body 10 in which an axial fan 30 is provided, and a blow-out panel 20 connected to the indoor unit body 10 (in the illustrated example, the blow-out panel 20 is provided at a lower part of the indoor unit body 10.)

[0041] Here, the indoor unit body 10 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape as a whole, and has an upper surface, a bottom surface, and four side surfaces. An intake port JF is provided on each side face, and a filter component 40 is provided at each intake port JP. As shown in FIG. 1, a heat exchanger 50 is further provided inside the indoor unit body 10. The heat exchanger 50 is provided at an inner side of the intake port JF and is surrounded by the filter component 40. The axial fan 30 is provided at an inner side of the heat exchanger 50. The axial fan 30 is provided such that an axis line overlaps with a center axis line L of the blow-out panel 20 (that is, an axis line extending through a center of the blow-out panel 20 along a thickness direction of the blow-out panel 20).

[0042] Further, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the blow-out panel 20 has an outer frame 21 and an inner frame 22. The outer frame 21 and the inner frame 22 surround a polygonal blow-out port CF. Guide vanes 23 are provided in the blow-out port CF. The blow-out panel 20 is provided with a link 24. The link 24 deviates from a corner of the blow-out port CF (that is, the link 24 does not pass through an apex of the corner of the blow-out port CF) and extends from the central direction of the blow-out panel 20 to the corner of the blow-out port CF. The guide vanes 23 are rotatably attached to the link 24.

[0043] Here, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, as viewed from an inner surface side to an outer surface side of the blow-out panel 20, specifically, as viewed from a side of the blow-out panel 20 closer to the indoor unit body 10 (Z2 direction side) toward a side away from the indoor unit body 10 (Z1 direction side), the link 24 has a first surface (downstream in a clockwise direction in FIG. 2) and a second surface (upstream in the clockwise direction in FIG. 2). An airflow generated by the axial fan or the like flows through the second surface and the first surface in that order. That is, the second surface is a windward surface and the first surface is a leeward surface.

[0044] Here, as shown in FIG. 2, the blow-out panel 20 has a substantially rectangular shape, and has the rectangular outer frame 21 and the rectangular inner frame 22. The outer frame 21 and the inner frame 22 surround the rectangular blow-out port CF. A set of guide vanes 23 is provided on each side of the blow-out port CF (each side configures an auxiliary blow-out port). As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, each set of guide vanes 23 is a combination of three parallel guide vanes. Lengths of the three parallel guide vanes is set to increase toward a direction from the inner frame 22 to the outer frame 21 of the blow-out panel 20. When the guide vanes 23 rotate to open the blow-out port CF, the airflow at both ends of the guide vanes 23 gradually spreads downward along the ends of the guide vanes 23, and is not blown out in parallel. Thus, the airflow having a relatively low flow velocity at both ends of the guide vanes 23 is not adhered to a ceiling. This prevents contaminants such as dust trapped in the airflow from adhering to the ceiling. As a whole, most of the airflow is still guided by the guide vanes 23, and a uniform distribution of the airflow can be still maintained.

[0045] Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the link 24 connects the outer frame 21 and the inner frame 22, and is provided near an angle bisector of the corner of the blow-out port CF (in the illustrated example, the link 24 is parallel to the angle bisector of the corner of the blow-out port CF). The link 24 includes a first link 24A and a second link 24B provided on one side of the blow-out port. As viewed along the Z direction (specifically, as viewed from a viewpoint of FIG. 2), a vertical line CX passing through the center of the blow-out panel 20 on one side of the blow-out port CF is disposed downstream of the first link 24A in a clockwise direction around the center of the blow-out panel. The second link 24B is disposed downstream of the vertical line CX in the clockwise direction around the center of the blow-out panel. Thus, by using the first link 24A and the second link 24B, respectively, the airflow generated by the axial fan or the like can be guided to the two corners of the blow-out port CF, and the airflows at the two corners of the blow-out port CF are both in a state close to a uniform distribution.

[0046] Further, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, a central member 26 is provided at a lower part of the axial fan 30 and at a lower part of the blow-out panel 20 (in the illustrated example, the central member 26 projects toward the axial fan 30. However, the shape is not limited to this, and may be appropriately changed as necessary). The central member 26 is provided with an air guide piece 261. An end point of a suction end of the air guide piece 261 is disposed on an extension line of a link body of the link 24.

[0047] Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the air guide piece 261 has an arc shape as viewed in the Z direction. The air guide piece 261 has a first air guide piece 261A and a second air guide piece 261B. As viewed along the Z direction (specifically, as viewed from the viewpoint of FIG. 2), the first air guide piece 261A is disposed upstream of the second air guide piece 261B in the clockwise direction around the center of the blow-out panel.

[0048] Here, as shown in FIG. 2, one first link 24A and one second link 24B are provided on one side of the blow-out port CF. Further, one first air guide piece 261A and one second air guide piece 261B are provided.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the first link 24A includes a link body 241A on which each guide vane 23 is rotatably arranged, and a connecting portion 242A. The connecting portion 242A is disposed closer to the central direction of the blow-out panel 20 than the link body 241A, and connects the link body 241A and the inner frame 22. Further, as viewed along the Z direction, a second surface 2421A of the connecting portion 242A forms an inwardly concave shape together with a second surface 2411A of the link body 241A. Here, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 8, the connecting portion 242A connects a first portion 2423A that extends substantially along a direction in which the link body 241A extends and a second portion 2424A that connects the first portion 2423A to the inner frame 22. The first portion and the second portion both have a guide surface that has an effect of guiding. Specifically, end surfaces of the first portion 2423A and the second portion 2424A close to the central direction of the blow-out panel are both arc-shaped guide surfaces. Further, the end surface of the second portion 2424A away from the central direction of the blow-out panel is a chamfered surface extending toward the corners of the blow-out port CF (that is, as the end surface goes closer to the corners of the blow-out port CF, the windward surface and the leeward surface come closer.) The chamfered surface guides the airflow generated by the axial fan or the like to the corners of the blow-out port CF.

[0050] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, the second link 24B includes a link body 241B on which each guide vane 23 is rotatably arranged, and a connecting portion 242B. The connecting portion 242B is disposed closer to the central direction of the blow-out panel 20 than the link body 241B, and connects the link body 241B and the inner frame 22. Further, as viewed along the Z direction, a second surface 2421B of the connecting portion 242B forms an inwardly concave shape together with a second surface 2411B of the link body 241B. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 8, the connecting portion 242B connects a first portion 2423B that extends substantially along a direction in which the link body 241B extends and a second portion 2424B that connects the first portion 2423B to the inner frame 22. The first portion and the second portion both have a guide surface that has an effect of guiding. Specifically, end surfaces of the first portion 2423B and the second portion 2424B close to the central direction of the blow-out panel are both arc-shaped guide surfaces. The end surface of the second portion 2424B away from the central direction of the blow-out panel is a chamfered surface extending toward the corners of the blow-out port CF. The chamfered surface guides the airflow generated by the axial fan or the like to the corners of the blow-out port CF.

[0051] Here, as shown in FIG. 4, on the first link 24A, the windward surface as the second surface 2411A of the link body 241A and the leeward surface as a first surface 2412A are substantially flat surfaces. The second surface 2421A and a first surface 2422A of the connecting portion 242A are substantially flat surfaces. The second surface 2411A of the link body 241A intersects with the second surface 2421A of the connecting portion 242A. The first surface 2412A of the link body 241A is substantially flush with the first surface 2422A of the connecting portion 242A or forms an obtuse angle larger than an angle formed by the second surfaces. Thus, the airflow guided from the air guide piece can be guided to the link body 2412A along the first surface 2422A of the connecting portion 242A and further to the corners of the blow-out port CF. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 5, on the second link 24B, the windward surface as the second surface 2411B and the leeward surface as a first surface 2412B of the link body 241B are substantially flat surfaces. The second surface 2421B and a first surface 2422B of the connecting portion 242B are substantially flat surfaces. The second surface 2411B of the link body 241B intersects with the second surface 2421B of the connecting portion 242B. The first surface 2412B of the link body 241B is substantially flush with the first surface 2422B of the connecting portion 242B or forms an obtuse angle larger than an angle formed by the windward surfaces. Thus, the airflow guided from the air guide piece can be guided to the link body 2412B along the first surface 2422B of the connecting portion 242B and further to the corners of the blow-out port CF.

[0052] Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, on the first link 24A, the second surface 2421A of the connecting portion 242A forms an obtuse angle with the second surface 2411A of the link body 241A. Further, on the second link 24B, the second surface 2421B of the connecting portion 242B forms an obtuse angle with the second surface 2411B of the link body 241B. Thus, when the airflow generated by the axial fan or the like flows to the link bodies 241A and 241B along the connecting portions 242A and 242B, a direction of the airflow changes gently. As a result, a turbulent flow is less likely to be formed at connections between the second surfaces 2421A and 2421B of the connecting portions 242A and 242B and the second surfaces 2411A and 2411B of the link bodies 241A and 241B.

[0053] Further, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 9, on the first link 24A, a rotating shaft 29 of each guide vane 23 is pivotally connected to the link body 241A in a substantially horizontal state. Specifically, each guide vane 23 includes an elongated vane body 231 and a fixing piece 232. The fixing piece 232 is perpendicular to the vane body 231, and is connected to a first end of the rotating shaft 29. The first link 24A has a projecting piece 243 that intersects with a longitudinal direction of the first link 24A and projects. The projecting piece 243 configures a support that supports the rotating shaft 29. A second end of the rotating shaft 29 is pivotally connected to the projecting piece 243. In the illustrated example, the projecting piece 243 is provided on the link body 241A, and is closer to the corners of the blow-out port CF than the fixing piece 232. A boundary between the connecting portion 242A and the link body 241A is disposed between the inner frame 22 and the rotating shaft 29, and thus the guide vanes 23 are stably rotated. The projecting piece 243 includes a first portion 2431 extending from the link body 241A along the thickness direction of the blow-out panel 20 and a second portion 2432. The second portion 2432 extends at an angle with respect to the first portion 2431 and is parallel to the fixing piece 232. The second end of the rotating shaft 29 is pivotally connected to the second portion 2432.

[0054] Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 9, on the second link 24B, the rotating shaft of each guide vane 23 is pivotally connected to the link body 241B in a substantially horizontal state. Specifically, each guide vane 23 includes the vane body 231 having an elongated shape and the fixing piece 232. The fixing piece 232 is perpendicular to the vane body 231, and is connected to the first end of the rotating shaft 29. The second link 24B has the projecting piece 243 that projects to intersect with the longitudinal direction of the second link 24B. The projecting piece 243 configures a support that supports the rotating shaft 29. A second end of the rotating shaft 29 is pivotally connected to the projecting piece 243. In the illustrated example, the projecting piece 243 is provided on the link body 241B, and is closer to the corners of the blow-out port CF than the fixing piece 232. A boundary between the connecting portion 242B and the link body 241B is disposed between the inner frame 22 and the rotating shaft 29, and thus the guide vanes 23 are stably rotated. The projecting piece 243 includes the first portion 2431 extending from the link body 241B along the thickness direction of the blow-out panel 20 and the second portion 2432. The second portion 2432 extends at an angle with respect to the first portion 2431 and is parallel to the fixing piece 232. The second end of the rotating shaft 29 is pivotally connected to the second portion 2432.

[0055] Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 9, a buffer ring 291 is integrally formed on the rotating shaft 29. The buffer ring 291 is disposed between the fixing piece 232 and the projecting piece 243 with each guide vane 23 attached. The buffer ring 291 prevents a jammed pivotal rotation of the guide vanes or accelerated wear of the fixing piece due to friction between the fixing piece 232 and the projecting piece 243. Here, the second end of the rotating shaft 29, which has a hollow structure and is divided into four pieces, can form a space for elastic deformation, and makes it convenient for the guide vanes 23 to be attached and detached. The first end of the rotating shaft 29 may be integrally molded with the fixing piece 232 or may be fixed and bonded to the fixing piece 232.

[0056] Further, as shown in FIGS. 2, 6 and 7, each projecting piece 243 provided on the first link 24A and the second link 24B is pivotally connected via the rotating shaft 29 to each end of the same guide vane 23 in the longitudinal direction. The guide vanes 23 thus rotate stably. The projecting pieces 243 provided on the first link 24A and the second link 24B are provided at positions closer to the corners of the blow-out port CF than the fixing pieces 232 provided on both ends of the guide vanes. That is, the fixing pieces 232 at both ends of the guide vanes 23 are provided on different sides of the first link 24A and the second link 24B, respectively. Thus, as compared with the case where the fixing pieces 232 are provided on the same side of the first link 24A and the second link 24B, the rotating shaft 29 is prevented from falling off the projecting piece 243.

[0057] Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the first link 24A and the second link 24B on both sides of one corner of the blow-out port CF are formed such that the link body of the first link 24A is parallel to the link body of the second link 24B.

[0058] Further, as shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the suction end of the air guide piece 261 is disposed on the extension line of the first surface of the link body of the link 24, and the blow-out end of the air guide piece 261 is closer to the vertical line CX than the link 24. Specifically, a suction end 261AA of the first air guide piece 261A is disposed on an extension line YC1 of the first surface 2412A of the link body 241A of the first link 24A. A suction end 261AB of the second air guide piece 261B is disposed on an extension line YC2 of the first surface 2412B of the link body 241B of the second link 24B. A blow-out end 261BA of the first air guide piece 261A is closer to the vertical line CX than the first link 24A. A blow-out end 261BB of the second air guide piece 261B is closer to the vertical line CX than the second link 24B. Then, a point X farthest from the vertical line CX on the leeward surface of the second air guide piece 261B is disposed on an extension line YC3 of the second surface 2421B of the connecting portion 242B of the second link 24B. Thus, the airflow guided from the leeward surface of the suction end of the second air guide piece 261B flows to the corners of the blow-out panel CF along the first surface of the second link 241B. Further, the airflow guided from the leeward surface of the blow-out end of the second air guide piece 261B flows to the second surface 2421B of the connecting portion 242B of the second link 241B.

[0059] Here, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the blow-out panel 20 is further provided with an intermediate link 25. The intermediate link 25 connects the outer frame 21 and the inner frame 22. As viewed along the Z direction, the intermediate link 25 is disposed at a middle of the blow-out port CF and is perpendicular to the guide vanes 23. A stepping motor (not shown) that drives the rotation of the guide vanes 23 is attached to the intermediate link 25. The first link 24A and the second link 24B are provided substantially symmetrically with respect to the intermediate link 25.

[0060] Here, as shown in FIG. 10, during an operation of the air conditioning indoor unit 1, the guide vanes 23 are reversed to a predetermined angle with respect to the outer surface of the blow-out panel 20. There is a gap between (an uppermost edge of) the guide vanes 23 and (the link body of) the link 24 for the airflow generated by the axial fan or the like to flow in the thickness direction of the blow-out panel. A gap of about 5 mm is preferably ensured between (the uppermost edge of) the guide vanes 23 and (the link body of) the link 24 even when the guide vanes 23 are reversed to a maximum angle (for example, 75° or 90°) with respect to the outer surface of the blow-out panel 20. This gap may be longer than 5 mm, provided that the gap does not affect a miniaturization of the blow-out panel in order to expand a path through which the airflow flows. Then, in order to ensure that the guide vanes 23 do not interfere with the link when the guide vanes 23 are reversed, the gap may be shorter than 5 mm.

[0061] Further, as shown in FIG. 10, the air guide piece 261 at least partially overlaps with the link 24 as viewed in a horizontal direction. Here, in the Z direction, the link 24 is disposed in the center of the air guide piece 261. The airflow generated by the axial fan or the like flows to the connecting portion of the link 24 via the windward surface of the air guide piece 261, and is guided to the corners of the blow-out port CF along the link body.

[0062] Then, as shown in FIG. 10, at least part of the central member 26 projects from the blow-out panel 20 in the Z direction. The air guide piece 261 can be thus easily provided on the central member 26. Further, the central member 26, which has the arc-shaped air guide surface, allows the airflow generated by the axial fan or the like to be guided to the blow-out port CF.

[0063] Further, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 10, the air conditioning indoor unit 1 further includes a side frame member 28 surrounding the axial fan 30. The central member 26 has a support rod 262, and is connected to the side frame member 28 via the support rod 262. Then, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the support rod 262 is disposed between the air guide piece 261 and the link 24 as viewed along the Z direction. As shown in FIG. 10, as viewed along the horizontal direction, at least a part of the air guide piece 261 is arranged to be shifted from the support rod 262 (in the illustrated example, the support rod 262 extends upward from a position of the air guide piece 261 to the outside in a radial direction). One side of the support rod 262 facing the axial fan 30 is an arc-shaped surface, and thus the airflow can be guided while the interference with the airflow generated by the axial fan or the like is reduced.

[0064] Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the blow-out panel 20 is further provided with a weather strip 27. The weather strip 27 is provided at each corner of the blow-out port CF, and connects the outer frame 21 and the inner frame 22. The weather strip is used to separate the airflows guided by the guide vanes adjacent in a peripheral direction, and thus the airflows guided by the guide vanes adjacent in the peripheral direction from interfering with each other at the blow-out port. Further, the airflow at the blow-out port can be improved.

[0065] In this embodiment, during the operation of the axial fan 30 of the air conditioning indoor unit 1, the airflow is sucked into the indoor unit body 10 from the suction port JP by an action of the axial fan 30, flows through the filter component 40 and the heat exchanger 50 in that order, and flows to a center of the air conditioning indoor unit 1. Then, the airflow flows through the axial fan 30 to form a spiral airflow, and flows down below to the central member 26. After that, the airflow is guided by the arc-shaped air guide surface of the central member 26, spreads from the center of the blow-out panel 20 all around to the blow-out port CF. A part of the airflow is guided to the corners of the blow-out port CF by the air guide piece 261 provided on the central member 26. This airflow flows from below the support rod 262 and is guided to the corners of the blow-out port CF via the link 24. Finally, the airflow flows through the blow-out port CF. The guide vanes 23 provided at the blow-out port CF are driven by the motor to be reversed to a predetermined angle and guide the airflow to the outside of the air conditioning indoor unit 1.

[0066] In the air conditioning indoor unit 1 according to this embodiment, on the blow-out panel 20, the polygonal blow-out port CF is surrounded by the outer frame 21 and the inner frame 22. This enables the air to be blown out all around 360°. The link 24 to which the guide vanes 23 are attached extends from the central direction of the blow-out panel 20 to the corners of the blow-out port CF, the airflow blown out from the axial fan 30 easily flows along the link 24 to the corners of the blow-out port CF. This allows the air to be blown out of the blow-out port CF close to uniformly.

[0067] Further, the rotating shaft 29 of each guide vane 23 is pivotally connected to the link 24, and thus a connection structure between the guide vanes 23 and the link 24 is simple. This avoids the interference of the guide vanes with the link when the guide vanes are rotated. This facilitates connection of the guide vanes to the link.

[0068] Further, in the air conditioning indoor unit 1 according to this embodiment, the link 24 connects the outer frame 21 and the inner frame 22, and thus a strength of the blow-out panel 20 as a whole is increased.

[0069] Further, in the air conditioning indoor unit 1 according to this embodiment, the link 24 is provided near the angle bisector of each corner of the blow-out port CF. Specifically, the link 24 is provided to be parallel to the angle bisector of each corner of the blow-out port CF. This allows the airflow blown out from the axial fan 30 to further easily flow along the link 24 to the corners of the blow-out port CF, and allows the air to be blown out of the blow-out port CF close to uniformly.

[0070] Further, in the air conditioning indoor unit 1 according to this embodiment, one end of the connecting portion of the link 24 away from the link body is arc-shaped as viewed along the Z direction. Thus, it is possible to reduce the interference of the one end of the connecting portion of the link 24 away from the link body with the airflow generated by the axial fan 30. The end, which is arc-shaped, can guide the airflow generated by the axial fan or the like to the corners of the blow-out port CF. This allows the air to be blown out of the blow-out port CF close to uniformly.

[0071] Further, in the air conditioning indoor unit 1 according to this embodiment, a width of the connecting portion of the link 24 gradually narrows toward one side of the link body as viewed along the Z direction. Thus, the strength of the entire link 24 is ensured, and a volume of the link 24 can be also reduced. This helps reduce the interference of the connecting portion of the link 24 with the airflow generated by the axial fan 24, and allows the air to be blown out of the blow-out port CF uniformly.

[0072] Further, in the air conditioning indoor unit 1 according to this embodiment, as viewed along the Z direction, the second surface of the connecting portion of the link 24 forms an inwardly concave shape together with the second surface of the link body. Thus, by using the second surface of the connecting portion of the link 24, the airflow generated by the axial fan 30 is easily guided to the corners of the blow-out port CF via the second surface of the link body. This also allows the airflow to be blown out from the corners of the blow-out port, and further allows the air to be blown out close to around 360° of the blow-out panel.

[0073] Further, in the air conditioning indoor unit 1 according to this embodiment, the second surface of the connecting portion of the link 24 and the second surface of the link body form an obtuse angle. It is therefore possible to ensure an effect that the airflow generated by the axial fan 30 is guided by using the second surface of the connecting portion of the link 24. Further, it is possible to reduce the interference of the connecting portion of the link 24 and the link body with the airflow generated by the axial fan 30. This allows the air to be blown out of the blow-out port CF close to uniformly.

[0074] Further, in the air conditioning indoor unit 1 according to this embodiment, the first link 24A and the second link 24B on both sides of one corner of the blow-out port CF are formed such that the link body 241A of the first link 24A is parallel to the link body 241B of the second link 24B. This can simplify an entire structure of the blow-out panel 20, and reduce the interference of the link body of the link 24 with the airflow at the corners of the blow-out port CF. This allows the air to be blown out of the blow-out port CF close to uniformly.

[0075] Further, in the air conditioning indoor unit 1 according to this embodiment, the stepping motor that drives the rotation of the guide vanes 23 is attached to the intermediate link 25. Thus, a force applied to the guide vanes 23 becomes close to uniform, and a drive structure can be simplified. Further, the stepping motor, which is provided on the outer frame of the blow-out port, is also advantageous for miniaturization of the blow-out panel.

[0076] In the air conditioning indoor unit 1 according to this embodiment, the central member 26 is provided at a center of the inner frame 22. The central member 26 is provided with the air guide piece 261. As a result, the airflow generated by the axial fan 30 is guided by using the air guide piece 261, and the airflow is thus prevented from being directly blown downward. This allows the air to be blown out of the blow-out port CF close to uniformly.

[0077] Further, in the air conditioning indoor unit 1 according to this embodiment, the suction end of the air guide piece 261 is disposed on the extension line of the first surface of the link body of the link 24. This can further ensure the airflow flowing to the corners of the blow-out port CF, and allows the air to be blown out of the blow-out port CF close to uniformly, and allows the air to be blown out around 360° of the blow-out panel.

[0078] Further, in the air conditioning indoor unit 1 according to this embodiment, the link 24 is disposed at the center of the air guide piece 261 in the Z direction. This strengthens an interaction between the air guide piece 261 and the link 24, ensures the airflow flowing to the corners of the blow-out port CF, and allows the air to be blown out of the blow-out port CF close to uniformly.

[0079] Although the blow-out panel and the air conditioning indoor unit have been described above as an example with reference to the drawings, the specific implementation of the blow-out panel and the air conditioning indoor unit is not limited by the above embodiment.

[0080] For example, in the above embodiment, the air conditioning indoor unit including the indoor unit body and the blow-out panel provided at the lower part of the indoor unit body has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The present invention may have a configuration where the blow-out panel is connected to an air treatment device via a duct, and the spiral airflow discharged from a fan component in the air treatment device is sent to the blow-out panel via the duct and further discharged from the blow-out panel. The blow-out panel and the air conditioning indoor unit may be configured as such.

[0081] Further, in the above embodiment, the indoor unit body 10 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape as a whole, but the shape of the indoor unit body may be appropriately changed depending on the situation. For example, the indoor unit body may be formed in a substantially columnar shape, a prismatic shape other than a square prism, or the like. Similarly, the blow-out panel 20 is substantially rectangular as viewed from the Z direction in the above embodiment, but the shape of the blow-out panel may be appropriately changed depending on the situation. For example, the blow-out panel may have a substantially circular shape as viewed from the Z direction, or may have a shape such as a polygon other than a quadrangle as viewed from the Z direction.

[0082] Further, the blow-out port CF is rectangular in the above embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the blow-out port may be formed in a polygonal shape.

[0083] Further, the suction port JF is provided on each side surface of the indoor unit body 10, and the filter component 40 is provided at each suction port JF in the above embodiment. The number of suction ports and the number of filter components may be adjusted as necessary.

[0084] Further, in the above embodiment, on one side of the blow-out port CF, one first link 24A and one second link 24B are provided, and one first air guide piece 261A and one second air guide piece 261B are provided. However, in this case as well, the number of the first link 24A, the second link 24B, the first air guide piece 261A, and the second air guide piece 261B provided on one side of the blow-out port CF may be changed as necessary.

[0085] Further, in the above embodiment, the link 24 connects the outer frame 21 and the inner frame 22. However, without being limited to such a configuration, the link 24 may be connected to only one of the outer frame 21 or the inner frame 22.

[0086] In the above embodiment, the link 24 includes the first link 24A and the second link 24B. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the link 24 may include only one of the first link 24A or the second link 24B. Similarly, the air guide piece 261 includes the first air guide piece 261A and the second air guide piece 261B in the above embodiment, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The air guide piece 261 may include only one of the first air guide piece 261A or the second air guide piece 261B.

[0087] Further, in the above embodiment, on the first link 24A, the second surface 2411A and the first surface 2412A of the link body 241A are substantially flat surfaces, and the second surface 2421A and the first surface 2422A of the connecting portion 242A are substantially flat surfaces. On the second link 24B, the second surface 2411B and the first surface 2412B of the link body 241B are substantially flat surfaces, and the second surface 2421B and the first surface 2422B of the connecting portion 242B are substantially flat surfaces. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the second surface 2411A and the first surface 2412A of the link body 241A, and the second surface 2421A and the first surface 2422A of the connecting portion 242A may be formed in other shapes. (For example, the surfaces may be formed in an arc shape or a polygonal line shape as viewed from the Z direction.) Further, the second surface 2411B and the first surface 2412B of the link body 241B, and the second surface 2421B and the first surface 2422B of the connecting portion 242B may be formed in other shapes (for example, the surfaces may be formed in an arc shape or a polygonal line shape as viewed from the Z direction).

[0088] Further, in the above embodiment, the first link 24A and the second link 24B on both sides of one corner of the blow-out port CF are formed such that the link body of the first link 24A is parallel to the link body of the second link 24B. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the link body of the first link 24A and the link body of the second link 24B may be formed to be unparallel to each other.

[0089] Further, in the above embodiment, the air guide piece 261 has an arc shape as viewed from the Z direction. However, the shape of the air guide piece is not limited thereto, and may be appropriately changed as necessary.

[0090] Further, in the above embodiment, the suction end of the air guide piece 261 is disposed on the extension line of the first surface of the link body of the link 24. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the suction end of the air guide piece may be disposed substantially in the direction in which the link body of the link extends.

[0091] Further, in the above embodiment, the specific form of the rotating shaft 29 may be appropriately changed as necessary. For example, the rotating shaft 29 may be a simple rod-shaped or tubular member or a joint.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST



[0092] 
1
Air conditioning indoor unit
10
Indoor unit body
20
Blow-out panel
21
Outer frame
22
Inner frame
23
Guide vane
231
Vane body
232
Fixing piece
24
Link
24A
First link
24B
Second link
241A
Link body
241B
Link body
2411A
Second surface
2411B
Second surface
2412A
First surface
2412B
First surface
242A
Connecting portion
242B
Connecting portion
2421A
Second surface
2421B
Second surface
2422A
First surface
2422B
First surface
2423A
First portion of connecting portion
2423B
First portion of connecting portion
2424A
Second portion of connecting portion
2424B
Second portion of connecting portion
XMA
Chamfered surface
XMB
Chamfered surface
243
Projecting piece
2431
First portion of projecting piece
2432
Second portion of projecting piece
25
Intermediate link
26
Central member
261
Air guide piece
261A
First air guide piece
261B
Second air guide piece
262
Support rod
27
Side frame member
29
Rotating shaft
291
Buffer ring
30
Axial fan
40
Filter component
50
Heat exchanger
L
Center axis line
CX
Vertical line
YC1
Extension line
YC2
Extension line
YC3
Extension line



Claims

1. A blow-out panel (20) comprising:

an outer frame (21);

an inner frame (22);

a guide vane (23); and

a link (24), wherein

the outer frame (21) and the inner frame (22) surround a blow-out port (CF) having a polygonal shape,

the guide vane (23) is provided in the blow-out port (CF),

the link (24) deviates from a corner of the blow-out port (CF) and extends from a central direction of the blow-out panel (20) to the corner of the blow-out port (CF), and

a rotating shaft (29) of the guide vane (23) is pivotally connected to the link (24) in parallel to a longitudinal direction of the guide vane.


 
2. The blow-out panel according to claim 1, wherein the link (24) connects the outer frame (21) and the inner frame (22).
 
3. The blow-out panel according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the link (24) is provided near an angle bisector of the corner of the blow-out port (CF).
 
4. The blow-out panel according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein

the guide vane (23) has a vane body (231) having an elongated shape, and a fixing piece (232) that is perpendicular to the vane body and to which a first end of the rotating shaft (29) is connected,

the link (24) has a projecting piece (243) that intersects with a longitudinal direction of the link and projects, and

a second end of the rotating shaft (29) is pivotally connected to the projecting piece.


 
5. The blow-out panel according to claim 4, wherein

the link (24) includes a link body (241A, 241B) and a connecting portion (242A, 242B), wherein

the connecting portion (242A, 242B) is disposed closer to a center of the blow-out panel (20) than the link body (241A, 241B), and connects the link body (241A, 241B) and the inner frame (22), and

the projecting piece is provided on the link body (241A, 241B).


 
6. The blow-out panel according to claim 5, wherein

the projecting piece (243) has a first portion (2431) that extends along a thickness direction of the blow-out panel from the link body (241A, 241B), and a second portion (2432) that extends at an angle with the first portion and is parallel to the fixing piece (232), and

a second end of the rotating shaft (29) is pivotally connected to the second portion.


 
7. The blow-out panel according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the projecting piece (243) is closer to a corner of the blow-out port (CF) than the fixing piece (232).
 
8. The blow-out panel according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein

the link (24) has a first link (24A) and a second link (24B) provided on one side of the blow-out port (CF),

the second link (24B) is disposed downstream of the first link (24A) in a clockwise direction around the center of the blow-out panel as viewed from an inner surface side to an outer surface side of the blow-out panel, and

the guide vane (23) is provided with a first rotating shaft (29A) and a second rotating shaft (29B) that are pivotally connected to the first link (24A) and the second link (24B), respectively.


 
9. The blow-out panel according to claim 8, further comprising an intermediate link (25), wherein

the guide vane (23) is provided with an intermediate rotating shaft pivotally connected to the intermediate link (25),

as viewed from a thickness direction of the blow-out panel (20), the intermediate link (25) is disposed in a middle of the blow-out port (CF), and is perpendicular to the guide vane (23), and

a stepping motor that drives a rotation of the guide vane (23) is attached to the intermediate link (25).


 
10. The blow-out panel according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein

the link (24) has a link body (241A, 241B) and a connecting portion (242A, 242B),

the connecting portion (242A, 242B) is disposed closer to the center of the blow-out panel (20) than the link body (241A, 241B), and connects the link body (241A, 241B) and the inner frame (22),

the connecting portion (242A, 242B) and the link body (241A, 241B) each have a first surface and a second surface,

as viewed from the inner surface side to the outer surface side of the blow-out panel, the first surface is disposed downstream of the second surface in the clockwise direction around the center of the blow-out panel, and

the second surface (2421A, 2421B) of the connecting portion (242A, 242B) forms an inwardly concave shape together with the second surface (2411A, 2411B) of the link body (241A, 241B).


 
11. The blow-out panel according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein

the link (24) has a first link (24A) and a second link (24B) that are provided on one side of the blow-out port (CF),

the second link (24B) is disposed downstream of the first link (24A) in a clockwise direction around a center of the blow-out panel as viewed from an inner surface side to an outer surface side of the blow-out panel, and

the first link (24A) and the second link (24B) on both sides of one corner of the blow-out port (CF) are formed such that the link body (241A) of the first link (24A) is in parallel to the link body (241B) of the second link (24B).


 
12. The blow-out panel according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein a central member (26) provided with an air guide piece (261) is installed at a center of the inner frame (22).
 
13. The blow-out panel according to claim 12, wherein

the link (24) has a link body (241A, 241B) and a connecting portion (242A, 242B),

the connecting portion (242A, 242B) is disposed closer to a center of the blow-out panel (20) than the link body (241A, 241B), and connects the link body (241A, 241B) and the inner frame (22),

the link body (241A, 241B) has a first surface and a second surface,

the first surface is disposed downstream of the second surface around the center of the blow-out panel in a clockwise direction as viewed from an inner surface side to an outer surface side of the blow-out panel (20), and

a suction end (261A) of the air guide piece (261) is disposed on an extension line of the first surface (2412A, 2412B) of the link body (241A, 241B).


 
14. An air conditioning indoor unit comprising:

an indoor unit body (10); and

the blow-out panel (20) described in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein

the blow-out panel (20) is directly connected to the indoor unit body (10), or connected to the indoor unit body (10) via a duct.


 




Drawing































Search report