TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to an indoor unit and an air conditioner.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] There has been a conventional air conditioner having a four-way cassette type indoor
unit. This four-way cassette type indoor unit is configured to be embedded in a ceiling
and blow air in four directions in the embedded state. The four-way cassette type
indoor unit includes a centrifugal fan, a heat exchanger arranged to surround the
centrifugal fan, and a partition plate connecting the opposite ends of the heat exchanger.
[0003] For example,
Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. H9-49640 (PTL 1) discloses a four-way cassette type indoor unit. In the indoor unit disclosed
in this publication, the partition plate is configured to protrude inward of the heat
exchanger.
CITATION LIST
PATENT LITERATURE
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
TECHNICAL PROBLEM
[0005] In the indoor unit disclosed in the above-referenced publication, the centrifugal
fan is rotated to generate airflow. This airflow passes along the partition plate
to be concentrated into the heat exchanger on the downstream side in the rotational
direction of the centrifugal fan. Therefore, the airflow passing in the heat exchanger
on the downstream side in the rotational direction of the centrifugal fan has a large
pressure loss. Meanwhile, airflow passing into the heat exchanger on the upstream
side in the rotational direction of the centrifugal fan is insufficient.
[0006] The present disclosure is given in view of the above problems, and an object of the
present disclosure is to provide an indoor unit that can suppress a pressure loss
of airflow passing in the heat exchanger on the downstream side in the rotational
direction of the centrifugal fan, and can promote passing of airflow into the heat
exchanger on the upstream side in the rotational direction of the centrifugal fan,
as well as an air conditioner having the indoor unit.
SOLUTION TO PROBLEM
[0007] An indoor unit of the present disclosure includes: a housing, a centrifugal fan,
a heat exchanger, and a partition plate. The centrifugal fan is contained in the housing,
has a rotational axis, and is configured to rotate about the rotational axis. The
heat exchanger is arranged to surround at least three quarters of an outer circumferential
periphery of the centrifugal fan, and has a first end located upstream in a rotational
direction of the centrifugal fan, and a second end located downstream in the rotational
direction of the centrifugal fan and spaced from the first end. The partition plate
has a protruding portion protruding toward the centrifugal fan from the first end
and the second end of the heat exchanger. An apex of the protruding portion of the
partition plate is located closer to the first end than to the second end.
ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF INVENTION
[0008] In the indoor unit of the present disclosure, the apex of the protruding portion
of the partition plate is located closer to the first end than to the second end.
Therefore, the pressure loss of airflow passing in the heat exchanger on the downstream
side in the rotational direction of the centrifugal fan can be suppressed. Moreover,
passing of airflow into the heat exchanger on the upstream side in the rotational
direction of the centrifugal fan can be promoted.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0009]
Fig. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a configuration of an indoor unit
according to Embodiment 1.
Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view along a line II-II in Fig. 1.
Fig. 3 is a bottom view schematically showing the configuration of the indoor unit
with its panel removed, according to Embodiment 1.
Fig. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of the indoor
unit with its panel removed, according to Embodiment 1.
Fig. 5 is a bottom view schematically showing a configuration of a modification of
the indoor unit with its panel removed, according to Embodiment 1.
Fig. 6 is a bottom view schematically showing a configuration of an indoor unit with
its panel removed, according to Embodiment 2.
Fig. 7 is a bottom view schematically showing a configuration of an indoor unit with
its panel removed, according to Embodiment 3.
Fig. 8 is a bottom view schematically showing a configuration of an indoor unit with
its panel removed, according to Embodiment 4.
Fig. 9 is a bottom view schematically showing a configuration of an indoor unit with
its panel removed, according to Embodiment 5.
Fig. 10 is a bottom view schematically showing a configuration of an indoor unit with
its panel removed, according to Embodiment 6.
Fig. 11 is a bottom view schematically showing a configuration of an indoor unit with
its panel removed, according to Embodiment 7.
Fig. 12 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of the indoor
unit with its panel removed, according to Embodiment 7.
Fig. 13 is a bottom view schematically showing a configuration of an indoor unit with
its panel removed, according to Embodiment 8.
Fig. 14 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of the indoor
unit with its panel removed, according to Embodiment 8.
Fig. 15 is a bottom view schematically showing a configuration of an indoor unit with
its panel removed, according to Embodiment 9.
Fig. 16 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of the indoor
unit with its panel removed, according to Embodiment 9.
Fig. 17 is a refrigerant circuit diagram for an air conditioner according to Embodiment
10.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0010] Embodiments are described hereinafter based on the drawings. In the following, the
same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference characters, and a description
thereof is not herein repeated.
Embodiment 1
[0011] Referring to Figs. 1 to 4, a configuration of an indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment
1 is described. Indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 1 is a four-way cassette type
indoor unit. Indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 1 is a ceiling-embedded-type indoor
unit. Indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 1 is an indoor unit for a packaged air
conditioner.
[0012] Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing, from below, indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment
1. Indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 1 is embedded in a ceiling in the state shown
in Fig. 1. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view laterally showing an internal structure
of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 1. Fig. 3 is a bottom view showing, from
below, a configuration of indoor unit 1 with its panel 22 removed, according to Embodiment
1. For ease of visual recognition, Fig. 3 does not show piping connected to heat exchanger
4. In Fig. 3 and subsequent drawings, the configuration in a simplified form is shown
for ease of visual recognition. Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing, from below,
the configuration of indoor unit 1 with its panel 22 removed, according to Embodiment
1.
[0013] Referring to Figs. 1 and 2, indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 1 includes a housing
2, a centrifugal fan 3, a heat exchanger 4, a partition plate 5, a motor 6, a bell
mouth 7, and a filter 8. In housing 2, centrifugal fan 3, heat exchanger 4, partition
plate 5, motor 6, bell mouth 7, and filter 8 are contained.
[0014] Housing 2 has a casing 21 and a panel 22. Casing 21 has a top plate 21a and a sidewall
21b. Top plate 21a is placed on the upper end of casing 21. Sidewall 21b is connected
to the outer edge of top plate 21a. Sidewall 21b extends from top plate 21a toward
panel 22. Sidewall 21b is formed to surround heat exchanger 4.
[0015] Panel 22 is attached to the lower end of casing 21. As seen in plan view, panel 22
is formed in a substantially square shape. Panel 22 has a suction inlet 23, a discharge
outlet 24, and a louver 25. At least one suction inlet 23 is provided in panel 22.
At least one discharge outlet 24 is provided in panel 22. For indoor unit 1 according
to Embodiment 1, one suction inlet 23 and four discharge outlets 24 are provided in
panel 22. As seen in plan view, suction inlet 23 is formed in a substantially square
shape. Suction inlet 23 is arranged centrally of panel 22. A grille is provided in
suction inlet 23.
[0016] As seen in plan view, four discharge outlets 24 are each formed in a substantially
rectangular shape. As seen in plan view, four discharge outlets 24 are each located
outward of suction inlet 23. Each of four discharge outlets 24 is located between
the outer edge of panel 22 and suction inlet 23. Four discharge outlets 24 are arranged
in four ways around suction inlet 23. Each of four discharge outlets 24 is arranged
along a corresponding one of four sides of panel 22. Each of four louvers 25 is arranged
at a corresponding one of four discharge outlets 24. Louver 25 is configured to adjust
passing of airflow from discharge outlet 24 in the top-to-bottom direction and the
left-to-right direction.
[0017] Centrifugal fan 3 is contained in housing 2. Centrifugal fan 3 has rotational axis
3a. Centrifugal fan 3 is configured to rotate about rotational axis 3a. Plan view
herein refers to viewing centrifugal fan 3 along rotational axis 3a. Centrifugal fan
3 is configured to rotate about rotational axis 3a to thereby generate airflow.
[0018] Heat exchanger 4 is arranged between sidewall 21b of housing 2 and centrifugal fan
3. Heat exchanger 4 is spaced from sidewall 21b of housing 2. Heat exchanger 4 is
spaced from centrifugal fan 3. Heat exchanger 4 is arranged in a fluid path of air
that is sucked by centrifugal fan 3 from suction inlet 23 into housing 2 and blown
out from four discharge outlets 24 into an indoor space (target space). In heat exchanger
4, heat is exchanged between air flowing outside heat exchanger 4 and refrigerant
flowing inside heat exchanger 4.
[0019] Heat exchanger 4 has a plurality of fins F and a heat transfer pipe P. The plurality
of fins F are spaced from each other. Heat transfer pipe P extends through the plurality
of fins F. Heat transfer pipe P is configured to allow refrigerant to flow in heat
transfer pipe P.
[0020] Partition plate 5 is connected to the opposite ends of heat exchanger 4. Partition
plate 5 is spaced from sidewall 21b of housing 2. Partition plate 5 is spaced from
centrifugal fan 3. Partition plate 5 is formed in the shape of a plate. Partition
plate 5 is configured to separate a space in which centrifugal fan 3 is located, from
a space in which piping connected to heat exchanger 4 is located.
[0021] Motor 6 is arranged centrally of top plate 21a of casing 21. Motor 6 is attached
to the center of top plate 21a of casing 21. Motor 6 has a drive unit 61, a motor
shaft 62, and a connection member 63. Drive unit 61 is configured to rotate motor
shaft 62. Drive unit 61 is attached to the center of top plate 21a of casing 21. Motor
shaft 62 is configured to rotate in the circumferential direction of motor shaft 62.
Motor shaft 62 extends from drive unit 61 toward panel 22. Connection member 63 is
attached to the outer peripheral surface of motor shaft 62. Connection member 63 is
configured to connect motor shaft 62 to centrifugal fan 3. Motor 6 is configured to
rotate centrifugal fan 3 in the rotational direction of motor shaft 62.
[0022] Bell mouth 7 is arranged between centrifugal fan 3 and suction inlet 23 of panel
22. Bell mouth 7 is configured to guide air sucked from suction inlet 23 of panel
22 to centrifugal fan 3.
[0023] Filter 8 is arranged between bell mouth 7 and suction inlet 23 of panel 22. Filter
8 is configured to remove dust from air flowing into housing 2 from suction inlet
23 of panel 22.
[0024] Referring to Figs. 2 and 3, the configuration of centrifugal fan 3 is described in
further detail.
[0025] As seen in plan view, centrifugal fan 3 is formed in a substantially circular shape.
Centrifugal fan 3 has a main plate 31, a side plate 32, and a plurality of vanes 33.
[0026] Main plate 31 is connected to a connection member 63 of motor 6. Main plate 31 has
a central portion 31a, a first flat plate portion 31b, an inclined portion 31c, and
a second flat plate portion 31d. As seen in plan view, central portion 31a is located
centrally of main plate 31. Central portion 31a is formed substantially in a cylindrical
shape. A through hole H is formed in central portion 31a. With connection member 63
inserted in through hole H of central portion 31a, connection member 63 is attached
to central portion 31a. Accordingly, main plate 31 is attached to motor shaft 62 of
motor 6 through connection member 63. Thus, main plate 31 can be rotated about rotational
axis 3a by rotational force of motor 6.
[0027] First flat plate portion 31b is connected to central portion 31a. As seen in plan
view, first flat plate portion 31b is located outside central portion 31a. Inclined
portion 31c is connected to first flat plate portion 31b. As seen in plan view, inclined
portion 31c is located outside first flat plate portion 31b. Inclined portion 31c
is inclined to expand from first flat plate portion 31b toward second flat plate portion
31d. Second flat plate portion 31d is connected to inclined portion 31c. As seen in
plan view, second flat plate portion 31d is located outside inclined portion 31c.
Second flat plate portion 31d is located closer to top plate 21a of housing 2 than
first flat plate portion 31b.
[0028] Side plate 32 is spaced from main plate 31 in the direction in which rotational axis
3a extends. As seen in plan view, side plate 32 is formed in an annular shape. An
opening OP is formed centrally of side plate 32. Centrifugal fan 3 is configured to
cause air to flow from opening OP into centrifugal fan 3. As seen in plan view, side
plate 32 is located along the outer rim of centrifugal fan 3.
[0029] The plurality of vanes 33 are arranged between main plate 31 and side plate 32. The
plurality of vanes 33 are arranged on second flat plate portion 31d of main plate
31. The upper end of each of the plurality of vanes 33 is attached to second flat
plate portion 31d of main plate 31. The lower end of each of the plurality of vanes
33 is attached to side plate 32.
[0030] Referring to Figs. 3 and 4, the configuration of heat exchanger 4 and partition plate
5 is described in further detail.
[0031] Heat exchanger 4 is arranged to surround centrifugal fan 3, in the circumferential
direction of centrifugal fan 3. As seen in plan view, heat exchanger 4 is arranged
substantially in the shape of a rectangle. Heat exchanger 4 is arranged to surround
at least three quarters of the outer circumferential periphery of centrifugal fan
3. Heat exchanger 4 is arranged in four ways around centrifugal fan 3.
[0032] Heat exchanger 4 has a first end 41 and a second end 42. First end 41 is one end
of heat exchanger 4 in the circumferential direction. Second end 42 is the other end
of heat exchanger 4 in the circumferential direction. First end 41 and second end
42 are spaced from each other. First end 41 and second end 42 are arranged in one
corner of a substantially rectangular shape of heat exchanger 4. Namely, first end
41 and second end 42 are arranged in one corner of casing 21. First end 41 is located
upstream in the rotational direction of centrifugal fan 3. Namely, first end 41 is
located upstream, relative to second end 42, in the rotational direction of centrifugal
fan 3. Second end 42 is located downstream in the rotational direction of centrifugal
fan 3, and spaced from first end 41. Namely, second end 42 is located downstream,
relative to first end 41, in the rotational direction of centrifugal fan 3.
[0033] Partition plate 5 is connected to the opposite ends of heat exchanger 4 in the circumferential
direction. Namely, partition plate 5 is connected to first end 41 and second end 42.
Partition plate 5 has a protruding portion 51. Protruding portion 51 protrudes toward
centrifugal fan 3 from first end 41 and second end 42 of heat exchanger 4. Protruding
portion 51 protrudes toward centrifugal fan 3 beyond a virtual line connecting first
end 41 and second end 42 on the inner circumference side of heat exchanger 4.
[0034] An apex TP of protruding portion 51 of partition plate 5 is located closer to first
end 41 than to second end 42. Apex TP is located upstream in the rotational direction
of centrifugal fan 3, relative to the midpoint of the virtual line connecting first
end 41 and second end 42 on the inner circumference side of heat exchanger 4. Namely,
apex TP is located away, in the counter-rotational direction of centrifugal fan 3,
from the midpoint of the virtual line connecting first end 41 and second end 42 on
the inner circumference side of heat exchanger 4.
[0035] Protruding portion 51 of partition plate 5 has a first plate portion 51a and a second
plate portion 51b. First plate portion 51a is configured to connect apex TP to first
end 41. Second plate portion 51b is configured to connect apex TP to second end 42.
As seen in plan view, the length of first plate portion 51a is shorter than the length
of second plate portion 51b. The joint where first plate portion 51a and second plate
portion 51b are connected to each other forms apex TP. Apex TP is formed pointedly.
[0036] In the following, referring again to Figs. 1 to 3, operation of indoor unit 1 according
to Embodiment 1 is described.
[0037] Referring to Figs. 1 and 2, rotation of centrifugal fan 3 causes air in an indoor
space (target space) to be sucked into housing 2 from suction inlet 23 of panel 22.
From the air sucked into housing 2 from suction inlet 23 of panel 22, dust is removed
by filter 8. The air passed through filter 8 is guided by bell mouth 7 to centrifugal
fan 3. The air sucked into centrifugal fan 3 through opening OP formed in side plate
32 of centrifugal fan 3 flows between the plurality of vanes 33 to be discharged outward
in the radial direction of centrifugal fan 3. The air thus discharged flows toward
heat exchanger 4. While air flows outside heat exchanger 4, heat is exchanged between
the air outside heat exchanger 4 and refrigerant inside heat exchanger 4. The air
with its heat exchanged with refrigerant in heat exchanger 4 flows through the space
between heat exchanger 4 and sidewall 21b of housing 2 to be discharged from four
discharge outlets 24 into the indoor space (target space).
[0038] Referring to Fig. 3, a part of the air discharged from centrifugal fan 3 flows toward
partition plate 5. Airflow AF flowing to partition plate 5 then flows along protruding
portion 51 of partition plate 5 to a heat exchanger 4a on the upstream side in rotational
direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3, and to a heat exchanger 4b on the downstream side
in rotational direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3. Specifically, airflow AF passes along
the inner circumferential surface of first plate portion 51a of protruding portion
51 of partition plate 5, to heat exchanger 4a on the upstream side in rotational direction
D1 of centrifugal fan 3. Airflow AF also passes along the inner circumferential surface
of second plate portion 51b of protruding portion 51 of partition plate 5 to heat
exchanger 4b on the downstream side in rotational direction D1 of centrifugal fan
3.
[0039] The angle formed between heat exchanger 4b on the downstream side in rotational direction
D1 of centrifugal fan 3 and second plate portion 51b of protruding portion 51 of partition
plate 5 is an obtuse angle. Namely, the angle formed between heat exchanger 4b on
the downstream side in rotational direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3 and second plate
portion 51b of protruding portion 51 of partition plate 5 is larger than 90 degrees.
Therefore, concentration of airflow AF into heat exchanger 4b on the downstream side
in rotational direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3 is suppressed. In addition, separation
of airflow AF from second plate portion 51b of protruding portion 51 of partition
plate 5 is suppressed.
[0040] The angle formed between heat exchanger 4a on the upstream side in rotational direction
D1 of centrifugal fan 3 and first plate portion 51a of protruding portion 51 of partition
plate 5 is an acute angle. Namely, the angle formed between heat exchanger 4a on the
upstream side in rotational direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3 and first plate portion
51a of protruding portion 51 of partition plate 5 is smaller than 90 degrees. Therefore,
passing of airflow AF into heat exchanger 4a on the upstream side in rotational direction
D1 of centrifugal fan 3 is promoted.
[0041] In the following, referring to Fig. 5, a modification of indoor unit 1 according
to Embodiment 1 is described.
[0042] Fig. 5 is a bottom view showing, from below, a configuration of indoor unit 1 with
its panel 22 removed, according to Embodiment 1. In the modification of indoor unit
1 according to Embodiment 1, first plate portion 51a and second plate portion 51b
are smoothly connected at apex TP to each other. Namely, apex TP is formed by a curved
surface.
[0043] In the following, functions and effects of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment
1 are described.
[0044] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 1, apex TP of protruding portion 51 of partition
plate 5 is located closer to first end 41 than to second end 42. Therefore, concentration
of airflow into heat exchanger 4b on the downstream side in rotational direction D1
of centrifugal fan 3 can be suppressed. Accordingly, a pressure loss of the airflow
passing in heat exchanger 4b on the downstream side in the rotational direction of
centrifugal fan 3 can be suppressed. In addition, passing of airflow into heat exchanger
4a on the upstream side in rotational direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3 can be promoted.
[0045] Concentration of airflow into heat exchanger 4b on the downstream side in rotational
direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3 can thus be suppressed and passing of airflow into
heat exchanger 4a on the upstream side in rotational direction D1 of centrifugal fan
3 can thus be promoted, and therefore, a uniform wind speed distribution of the airflow
passing in heat exchanger 4 can be achieved.
[0046] Apex TP of protruding portion 51 of partition plate 5 is thus located closer to first
end 41 than to second end 42, and therefore, the angle formed between heat exchanger
4b on the downstream side in rotational direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3 and second
plate portion 51b of protruding portion 51 of partition plate 5 is an obtuse angle.
Therefore, the angle formed between heat exchanger 4b on the downstream side in rotational
direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3 and second plate portion 51b of protruding portion
51 of partition plate 5 is a gentle curve. Accordingly, separation of airflow from
second plate portion 51b of protruding portion 51 of partition plate 5 can be suppressed.
[0047] A pressure loss of the airflow passing in heat exchanger 4b on the downstream side
in the rotational direction of centrifugal fan 3 can thus be suppressed, and therefore,
power consumption of motor 6 rotating centrifugal fan 3 can be reduced. Moreover,
since a pressure loss of the airflow passing in heat exchanger 4b on the downstream
side in the rotational direction of centrifugal fan 3 can be suppressed, the number
of revolutions of centrifugal fan 3 can be reduced. Accordingly, noise caused by rotation
of centrifugal fan 3 can be reduced.
[0048] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 1, heat exchanger 4 is arranged in four
ways around centrifugal fan 3. Therefore, heat can be exchanged, in four ways around
centrifugal fan 3, between air flowing outside heat exchanger 4 and refrigerant flowing
inside heat exchanger 4. In this way, four-way cassette type indoor unit 1 can be
formed.
Embodiment 2
[0049] Referring to Fig. 6, a configuration of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 2 is
described. Fig. 6 is a bottom view showing, from below, the configuration of indoor
unit 1 with its panel 22 removed, according to Embodiment 2.
[0050] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 2, when centrifugal fan 3 is seen along
rotational axis 3a, a virtual line connecting rotational axis 3a of centrifugal fan
3 and apex TP is defined as a first virtual line A1, a virtual line connecting apex
TP and first end 41 is defined as a second virtual line A2, and a virtual line connecting
apex TP and second end 42 is defined as a third virtual line A3. Then, a first angle
θa formed between first virtual line A1 and second virtual line A2 is larger than
a second angle θb formed between first virtual line A1 and third virtual line A3.
Second virtual line A2 is located along the inner surface of first plate portion 51a.
Third virtual line A3 is located along the inner surface of second plate portion 51b.
[0051] In the following, functions and effects of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment
2 are described.
[0052] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 2, first angle θa formed between first virtual
line A1 and second virtual line A2 is larger than second angle θb formed between first
virtual line A1 and third virtual line A3. The angle formed between the direction
of airflow and second virtual line A2 is therefore reduced. Accordingly, separation
of airflow from second plate portion 51b of protruding portion 51 of partition plate
5 can further be suppressed.
Embodiment 3
[0053] Referring to Fig. 7, a configuration of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 3 is
described. Fig. 7 is a bottom view showing, from below, the configuration of indoor
unit 1 with its panel 22 removed, according to Embodiment 3.
[0054] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 3, when centrifugal fan 3 is seen along
rotational axis 3a, a virtual line connecting rotational axis 3a of centrifugal fan
3 and first end 41 is defined as a fourth virtual line A4. Then, apex TP is located
upstream in rotational direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3, relative to fourth virtual
line A4. Apex TP is located upstream, in the rotational direction of centrifugal fan
3, relative to first end 41.
[0055] In the following, functions and effects of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment
3 are described.
[0056] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 3, apex TP is located upstream, in rotational
direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3, relative to fourth virtual line A4. Thus, passing
of airflow into heat exchanger 4a on the upstream side in rotational direction D1
of centrifugal fan 3 can further be promoted. Accordingly, a uniform wind speed distribution
of the airflow passing in heat exchanger 4 can be achieved.
Embodiment 4
[0057] Referring to Fig. 8, a configuration of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 4 is
described. Fig. 8 is a bottom view showing, from below, the configuration of indoor
unit 1 with its panel 22 removed, according to Embodiment 4.
[0058] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 4, protruding portion 51 of partition plate
5 has first plate portion 51a connecting apex TP to first end 41. First plate portion
51a is configured to protrude toward second end 42. First plate portion 51a is curved
toward second end 42. First plate portion 51a is curved toward a space in which piping
connected to heat exchanger 4 is located.
[0059] In the following, functions and effects of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment
4 are described.
[0060] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 4, first plate portion 51a is configured
to protrude toward second end 42. Thus, passing of airflow perpendicularly into heat
exchanger 4a located upstream in rotational direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3 is facilitated.
Accordingly, passing of airflow into heat exchanger 4a located upstream in rotational
direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3 can further be promoted.
Embodiment 5
[0061] Referring to Fig. 9, a configuration of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 5 is
described. Fig. 9 is a bottom view showing, from below, the configuration of indoor
unit 1 with its panel 22 removed, according to Embodiment 5.
[0062] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 5, protruding portion 51 of partition plate
5 has second plate portion 51b connecting apex TP to second end 42. Second plate portion
51b is configured to protrude toward centrifugal fan 3. Second plate portion 51b is
curved toward centrifugal fan 3. First plate portion 51a is configured to protrude
toward second end 42.
[0063] In the following, functions and effects of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment
5 are described.
[0064] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 5, second plate portion 51b is configured
to protrude toward centrifugal fan 3. Thus, separation of airflow from second plate
portion 51b of protruding portion 51 of partition plate 5 can further be suppressed.
[0065] First plate portion 51a is configured to protrude toward second end 42. Thus, passing
of airflow perpendicularly into heat exchanger 4a located upstream in rotational direction
D1 of centrifugal fan 3 is facilitated. Accordingly, passing of airflow into heat
exchanger 4a located upstream in rotational direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3 can
further be promoted.
Embodiment 6
[0066] Referring to Fig. 10, a configuration of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 6
is described. Fig. 10 is a bottom view showing, from below, the configuration of indoor
unit 1 with its panel 22 removed, according to Embodiment 6.
[0067] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 6, the distance (first distance) n between
centrifugal fan 3 and apex TP is shorter than the distance (second distance) m between
centrifugal fan 3 and heat exchanger 4. Distance n between centrifugal fan 3 and apex
TP is the shortest distance between centrifugal fan 3 and apex TP when centrifugal
fan 3 is seen along rotational axis 3a. Distance m between centrifugal fan 3 and heat
exchanger 4 is the shortest distance between centrifugal fan 3 and apex TP when centrifugal
fan 3 is seen along rotational axis 3a.
[0068] In the following, functions and effects of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment
6 are described.
[0069] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 6, distance n between centrifugal fan 3
and apex TP is shorter than distance m between centrifugal fan 3 and heat exchanger
4. Thus, advantageous effects that the pressure loss of airflow passing in heat exchanger
4b located downstream in the rotational direction of centrifugal fan 3 can be suppressed,
and that passing of airflow into heat exchanger 4a located upstream in rotational
direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3 can be promoted, can sufficiently be ensured.
Embodiment 7
[0070] Referring to Figs. 11 and 12, a configuration of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment
7 is described. Fig. 11 is a bottom view showing, from below, the configuration of
indoor unit 1 with its panel 22 removed, according to Embodiment 7. Fig. 12 is a perspective
view showing, from below, the configuration of indoor unit 1 with its panel 22 removed,
according to Embodiment 7.
[0071] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 7, centrifugal fan 3 has main plate 31 and
side plate 32 connected to main plate 31. Protruding portion 51 of partition plate
5 has second plate portion 51b connecting apex TP to second end 42. Second plate portion
51b has a main plate-side portion 51b1 facing main plate 31, and a side plate-side
portion 51b2 facing side plate 32. Side plate-side portion 51b2 is configured to project
further toward centrifugal fan 3, relative to main plate-side portion 51b1.
[0072] When centrifugal fan 3 is seen along rotational axis 3a, the angle formed between
side plate-side portion 51b2 and a virtual line connecting rotational axis 3a of centrifugal
fan 3 and apex TP of protruding portion 51 of partition plate 5 is smaller than the
angle formed between main plate-side portion 51b1 and the virtual line.
[0073] In the following, functions and effects of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment
7 are described.
[0074] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 7, side plate-side portion 51b2 is configured
to project further toward centrifugal fan 3, relative to main plate-side portion 51b1.
A turning component, in rotational direction D1 of centrifugal fan 3, of airflow blown
out from centrifugal fan 3 is larger on the side plate 32 side than on the main plate
31 side. Since side plate-side portion 51b2 is configured to project further toward
centrifugal fan 3 relative to main plate-side portion 51b1, separation of airflow
from second plate portion 51b of protruding portion 51 of partition plate 5 can be
suppressed.
Embodiment 8
[0075] Referring to Figs. 13 and 14, a configuration of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment
8 is described. Fig. 13 is a bottom view showing, from below, the configuration of
indoor unit 1 with its panel 22 removed, according to Embodiment 8. Fig. 14 is a perspective
view showing, from below, the configuration of indoor unit 1 with its panel 22 removed,
according to Embodiment 7.
[0076] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 8, centrifugal fan 3 has main plate 31 and
side plate 32 connected to main plate 31. Protruding portion 51 of partition plate
5 has second plate portion 51b connecting apex TP to second end 42. Second plate portion
51b has main plate-side portion 51b1 facing main plate 31, and side plate-side portion
51b2 facing side plate 32. The distance between centrifugal fan 3 and apex TP of main
plate-side portion 51b1 is longer than the distance between centrifugal fan 3 and
apex TP of side plate-side portion 51b2.
[0077] When centrifugal fan 3 is seen along rotational axis 3a, the shortest distance between
centrifugal fan 3 and apex TP of main plate-side portion 51b1 is longer than the shortest
distance between centrifugal fan 3 and apex TP of side plate-side portion 51b2.
[0078] In the following, functions and effects of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment
8 are described.
[0079] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 8, the distance between centrifugal fan
3 and apex TP of main plate-side portion 51b1 is longer than the distance between
centrifugal fan 3 and side plate-side portion 51b2. The wind speed of airflow blown
out from centrifugal fan 3 is larger on the main plate 31 side than on the side plate
32 side. Since the distance between centrifugal fan 3 and apex TP of main plate-side
portion 51b1 is longer than the distance between centrifugal fan 3 and apex TP of
side plate-side portion 51b2, a pressure variation on the flat surface of second plate
portion 51b of protruding portion 51 of partition plate 5 can be suppressed. Accordingly,
noise can be reduced.
Embodiment 9
[0080] Referring to Figs. 15 and 16, a configuration of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment
9 is described. Fig. 15 is a bottom view showing, from below, the configuration of
indoor unit 1 with its panel 22 removed, according to Embodiment 9. Fig. 16 is a perspective
view showing, from below, the configuration of indoor unit 1 with its panel 22 removed,
according to Embodiment 9.
[0081] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 9, a slit SL is provided in partition plate
5. Slit SL extends through partition plate 5 in the thickness direction. A plurality
of slits SL are provided. Slits SL are provided in each of first plate portion 51a
and second plate portion 51b of protruding portion 51 of partition plate 5.
[0082] In the following, functions and effects of the indoor unit according to Embodiment
9 are described.
[0083] In indoor unit 1 according to Embodiment 9, slits SL are provided in partition plate
5. Thus, excessive increase of the pressure on the inner surface of partition plate
5 can be suppressed. Accordingly, noise can be suppressed.
Embodiment 10
[0084] Referring to Fig. 17, a configuration of an air conditioner 100 according to Embodiment
10 is described. Fig. 17 is a refrigerant circuit diagram for the air conditioner
according to Embodiment 10.
[0085] Air conditioner 100 according to Embodiment 10 includes indoor unit 1 as described
above. Air conditioner 100 includes indoor unit 1 and an outdoor unit 200. Outdoor
unit 200 is connected to indoor unit 1. Indoor unit 1 and outdoor unit 200 are coupled
to each other by refrigerant piping. A refrigerant circuit is thus formed. In the
refrigerant circuit, refrigerant is circulated. In the refrigerant piping, a pipe
in which refrigerant in gas state (gas refrigerant) flows forms a gas pipe 300, and
a pipe in which refrigerant in liquid state (liquid refrigerant or gas-liquid two-phase
refrigerant) flows forms a liquid pipe 400.
[0086] Outdoor unit 200 includes a compressor 201, a four-way valve 202, an outdoor heat
exchanger 203, an outdoor blower 204, and a throttle device (expansion valve) 205.
[0087] Compressor 201 is configured to compress sucked refrigerant and discharge the resultant
refrigerant. Compressor 201 includes an inverter or the like to change the operating
frequency and thereby makes variable the capacity (the amount of refrigerant discharged
per unit time) of compressor 201. Four-way valve 202 is configured to be switched,
in accordance with an instruction from a controller (not shown), between a state during
cooling operation and a state during heating operation to switch flow of refrigerant.
[0088] Outdoor heat exchanger 203 is configured to cause exchange of heat between refrigerant
inside outdoor heat exchanger 203 and air outside outdoor heat exchanger 203 (outdoor
air).
[0089] During cooling operation, outdoor heat exchanger 203 serves as a condenser. Regarding
outdoor heat exchanger 203, refrigerant compressed by compressor 201 flows through
four-way valve 202 into outdoor heat exchanger 203. In outdoor heat exchanger 203,
heat is exchanged between refrigerant inside outdoor heat exchanger 203 and air outside
outdoor heat exchanger 203. Accordingly, refrigerant is condensed in outdoor heat
exchanger 203.
[0090] During heating operation, outdoor heat exchanger 203 serves as an evaporator. In
outdoor heat exchanger 203, heat is exchanged between low-pressure refrigerant flowing
from liquid pipe 400 and air. Accordingly, refrigerant is evaporated in outdoor heat
exchanger 203.
[0091] In order to make efficient heat exchange between refrigerant in outdoor heat exchanger
203 and air, outdoor blower 204 having a fan and a fan motor for example is provided.
Outdoor blower 204 may be configured to change the operating frequency of the fan
motor by means of an inverter and thereby make the rotational speed of the fan variable.
Throttle device (expansion valve) 205 is configured to reduce the pressure of refrigerant
by expanding the refrigerant.
[0092] Indoor unit 1 includes centrifugal fan 3 and heat exchanger 4. Centrifugal fan 3
is configured to adjust flow of air with which heat is exchanged in heat exchanger
4. Heat exchanger 4 serves as an evaporator during cooling operation. Heat is exchanged
between refrigerant reduced in pressure by throttle device (expansion valve) 205 and
flowing into heat exchanger 4 and air outside heat exchanger 4. Accordingly, refrigerant
in heat exchanger 4 is evaporated. The evaporated refrigerant flows through gas pipe
300 and flows out of heat exchanger 4. During heating operation, heat exchanger 4
serves as a condenser. Heat is exchanged between refrigerant flowing from gas pipe
300 into heat exchanger 4 and air outside heat exchanger 4. Refrigerant is accordingly
condensed in heat exchanger 4. Refrigerant is thus liquefied (or converted into gas-liquid
two-phase). The liquefied refrigerant (or refrigerant converted into gas-liquid two-phase)
flows into liquid pipe 400.
[0093] For air conditioner 100 according to Embodiment 10, indoor unit 1 according to Embodiments
1 to 9 can be used. Thus, air conditioner 100 according to embodiment 10 enables air
conditioner 100 producing the effects of indoor unit 1 according to Embodiments 1
to 9 to be achieved.
[0094] It should be construed that embodiments disclosed herein are given by way of illustration
in all respects, not by way of limitation. It is intended that the scope of the present
invention is defined by claims, not by the description above, and encompasses all
modifications and variations equivalent in meaning and scope to the claims.
REFERENCE SIGNS LIST
[0095] 1 indoor unit; 2 housing; 3 centrifugal fan; 3a rotational axis; 4 heat exchanger;
5 partition plate; 6 motor; 21 casing; 22 panel; 23 suction inlet; 24 discharge outlet;
31 main plate; 32 side plate; 33 vane; 41 first end; 42 second end; 51 protruding
portion; 51a first plate portion; 51b second plate portion; 51b1 main plate-side portion;
51b2 side plate-side portion; 100 air conditioner; 200 outdoor unit; 201 compressor;
202 four-way valve; 203 outdoor heat exchanger; 204 outdoor blower; 300 gas pipe;
400 liquid pipe; A1 first virtual line; A2 second virtual line; A3 third virtual line;
A4 fourth virtual line; D1 rotational direction; SL slit; TP apex; m distance between
centrifugal fan and heat exchanger; n distance between centrifugal fan and apex
1. An indoor unit comprising:
a housing;
a centrifugal fan contained in the housing, having a rotational axis, and configured
to rotate about the rotational axis;
a heat exchanger arranged to surround at least three quarters of an outer circumferential
periphery of the centrifugal fan, and having a first end located upstream in a rotational
direction of the centrifugal fan, and a second end located downstream in the rotational
direction of the centrifugal fan and spaced from the first end; and
a partition plate having a protruding portion protruding toward the centrifugal fan
from the first end and the second end of the heat exchanger,
an apex of the protruding portion of the partition plate being located closer to the
first end than to the second end.
2. The indoor unit according to claim 1, wherein the heat exchanger is arranged in four
ways around the centrifugal fan.
3. The indoor unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein
when the centrifugal fan is seen along the rotational axis, a first angle formed between
a first virtual line and a second virtual line is larger than a second angle formed
between the first virtual line and a third virtual line, where the first virtual line
is a virtual line connecting the rotational axis of the centrifugal fan and the apex,
the second virtual line is a virtual line connecting the apex and the first end, and
the third virtual line is a virtual line connecting the apex and the second end.
4. The indoor unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein
when the centrifugal fan is seen along the rotational axis, the apex is located upstream
in the rotational direction of the centrifugal fan, relative to a fourth virtual line,
where the fourth virtual line is a virtual line connecting the rotational axis of
the centrifugal fan and the first end.
5. The indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein
the protruding portion of the partition plate has a first plate portion connecting
the apex to the first end, and
the first plate portion protrudes toward the second end.
6. The indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein
the protruding portion of the partition plate has a second plate portion connecting
the apex to the second end, and
the second plate portion protrudes toward the centrifugal fan.
7. The indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein
the centrifugal fan has a main plate and a side plate connected to the main plate,
the protruding portion of the partition plate has a second plate portion connecting
the apex to the second end,
the second plate portion has a main plate-side portion facing the main plate, and
a side plate-side portion facing the side plate, and
the side plate-side portion projects further toward the centrifugal fan, relative
to the main plate-side portion.
8. The indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein
the centrifugal fan has a main plate and a side plate connected to the main plate,
the protruding portion of the partition plate has a second plate portion connecting
the apex to the second end,
the second plate portion has a main plate-side portion facing the main plate, and
a side plate-side portion facing the side plate, and
a distance between the centrifugal fan and the apex of the main plate-side portion
is longer than a distance between the centrifugal fan and the apex of the side plate-side
portion.
9. The indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the distance between
the centrifugal fan and the apex is shorter than the distance between the centrifugal
fan and the heat exchanger.
10. The indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein a slit is provided
in the partition plate.
11. An air conditioner comprising:
the indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 10; and
an outdoor unit connected to the indoor unit.